Y Magazine #578, July 25, 2019

Coffee with Y

REKINDLING THE ART OF OMANI HANDICRAFTS Through the lens

THE SARDINE FISHERMEN OF DHOFAR

News: OMAN AIR EXTENDS 737 MAX FLIGHT 12 CANCELLATIONS THROUGH AUGUST

CATCH THE LATEST UPDATES ONLY ON WWW.Y-OMAN.COM

DESTINATION: Al Sifah Beach TASTE TEST: Le Petit Belge YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

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DREAMING BIG

PLUS!

MORE STARTUPS IN OMAN ARE FINDING FOOTHOLDS TO SUCCESS THANKS TO A RENEWED NATIONAL COMMITMENT TO SUPPORT THE GRASSROOTS INDUSTRIES THAT FORM THE BACKBONE OF THE SULTANATE’S ECONOMY. WE MEET THE LOCAL, YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS WHOSE VISIONS ARE NOW BECOMING REALITY AS A RESULT.

YUMMY OMAN: REFRESHING SUMMERNOVEMBER QUENCHERS 01 24 / ISSUE 258

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FIRST DRIVE: THE 2019 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI

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POSTCARD: KENYA’S UNTAMED MAASAI MARA

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EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

IN THIS ISSUE…

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here’s something intrinsically affirming about buying local and supporting local. Not only do grassroots businesses help recycle funds back into the nation, they also have a direct day-to-day impact on the lives and livelihoods of both young entrepreneurs, and families whose local enterprises span back generations.

Here in Oman, small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) – and the entrepreneurial visions from which they sprung, form the backbone of the Sultanate’s economy. And, as it turns out, they’re dreams worth investing in.

In this week’s cover story, we’re shining the spotlight once again on the Sultanate’s industrious innovators – its young entrepreneurs – whose big dreams for growth start at home. We meet local business-owners who have been given a boost towards success thanks to a renewed national commitment towards bolstering Oman’s grassroots economy. We also explore the support mechanisms in place to ensure that new businesses have every resource and chance at success.

Also in this issue, we meet one local entrepreneur who is trying to keep Oman’s traditional handicraft practices alive while empowering women at the same time; we also head to the beaches of Dhofar with our cameras at the ready to explore through our lens an historic way of life for the coastal region’s sardine fishermen.

Plus, we’re bringing you a taste of summer in a glass with some ultimate hot-weather quenchers over in Yummy Oman; travel to the savannahs of Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve in Postcard; hit the road in the brand-new Volkswagen Golf GTI in First Drive; and round-up our top picks of gadgets to bring with you on your next summer road-trip in our Y-Fi pages!

Until next week, happy reading!

Team Y

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi ADMIN MANAGER Yousef al Harrassi REPORTER Hassan al Lawati

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PHOTOGRAPHER Ismail Al Farsi DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan MANAGER – DIGITAL MEDIA SALES Umair Mehmood

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contents JUL

Your Oman 08 Voice Of Oman

Mundhir al Alawi 10 News His Majesty issues Royal Pardon to 272 prisoners 12 News Oman Air extends 737 Max cancellations through August

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2019

This Week 16 A royal début The Royal Opera House Muscat launches its 20192020 season with tickets to its opening performance of ‘Carmen’ on-sale July 29!

17 Movies Dhyan Sreenivasan stars as a downon-his-luck youth saddled with the same name as India’s most beloved cricketer in the Malalayam drama ‘Sachin’.

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Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Al Sifah Beach 34 First Drive

Volkswagen Golf GTI 38 Y-Fi

Road-trip gadget must-haves

Health and Beauty 40 Fashion

The ultimate summer

work wardrobe

Features 18 Empowering enterprise As SMEs in Oman continue to find new avenues of support in both the government and private sector, we explore the effect this renewed commitment towards investing in the Sultanate’s grassroots economy is having on the future of the nation’s entrepreneurial growth.

24 Fair trade Coffee with Y meets a local entrepreneur who’s empowering Omani women through the art of traditional handicrafts.

26 Omani tides Y photographer Ismail Al Farsi documents an ancient way of life for the sardine fishermen of Dhofar.

Food and Drink 44 Yummy Oman

Refreshing summer quenchers 46 Taste Test

Le Petit Belge

42 Beauty

Embrace your age

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44 NEXT ISSUE...

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

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

‘Avengers’ earnings ‘Avengers: Endgame’ has beat 2009’s ‘Avatar’ to become the highestgrossing film of all time! The sequel earned over $2.9 billion USD since its release in April. ‘Avatar’, directed by James Cameron held onto its record for a decade, raking in $2.79 billion USD at the box office. Not a bad run for ‘Avatar’s blue crew!

An ‘Eternal’ Marvel It’s San Diego Comic-Con week, which means star-studded surprises and big announcements coming out of the geek world’s biggest gathering! Well, ‘The Eternals’ is the first film to be announced at Marvel’s Comic-Con presentation and, after months of speculation, it may just be the most talked about bit of news to come out of this year’s event. The cast is lit and includes Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Richard Madden, and Kumail Nanjiani.

The Eternals are a race of 35,000-year-old aliens sent to Earth to protect the planet from the threat of evil.

Get in line for tickets because the movie hits theatres, November 6, 2020.

Knot in a hurry After getting engaged back in February on Valentine’s Day, Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom have decided to work on their relationship emotionally before walking down the aisle. About their relationship, Katy divulged: “I think we’re doing really great, and we’re really doing the hard work laying a beautiful foundation before we 06

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start to build a massive house. I was saying it, like, emotionally. It’s important for us to do the work before we go and take this really big next step. We were both married before and it’s not the same in your thirties.” We wish the happy couple all the best of luck!

Tyler the fan?

Singer-songwriter Billie Eilish is on top of the world right now as her music career continues to skyrocket. She just finished a collaboration with Justin Bieber on her single ‘Bad Guy’ and now another fellow artist and fan, Tyler the Creator has said he really wants to work with Billie, stating in a recent interview: “I want work with her.

I don’t know what we would make – even if it’s trash.

I still just want to see what we could do together.” And, of course, Billie responded, saying: “I would never in a billion years have thought these words would come out of this man’s mouth. Wow. I would be nothing without you Tyler… everyone knows it.” Creative sparks are flying indeed!

Comic-Con highlights Marvel keeps taking over the universe – no pun intended – dropping some major Easter eggs at the 2019 San Diego ComicCon with the announcement of Natalie Portman signing on to play the Mighty Thor in the upcoming Marvel sequel ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, with ‘Thor: Ragnorok’ director Taika Waititi back at the helm. If you’re confused by the casting, the film is based on a 2014 comic-book storyline where Thor loses his powers which are transferred to Jane Foster (Portman) as she gets the chance to wield the magical hammer. Marvel also announced that twotime Academy Award-winner Mahershala Ali will be taking on the lead role made famous by Wesley Snipes of the halfhuman, half-vampire who hunts down the undead in an upcoming ‘Blade’ re-make.

Sam’s new single Sam Smith has just released the video for his new single ‘How Do You Sleep?’, Tweeting: “I’ve never been this excited for a release! My inner dancing queen is about to come out!” This will be Sam’s first track since his recent collaboration with Normani on ‘Dancing with a Stranger’ – with the tracks pegged as standalone singles ahead of an unannounced new album.

A ‘wild’ soundtrack Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ has already garnered $531 million USD worldwide on its opening weekend in theatres and we can’t get enough of its star-studded cast. Not only does Beyoncé grace the big screen as Nala, but she’s also given fans ‘The Lion King; The Gift’. The soundtrack album features new songs by Bey herself, along with a handful of guest stars such as Jay-Z, Donald Glover (who plays Simba), and Kendrick Lamar. The album includes the tracks ‘Brown Skin Girl’, and ‘Bigger’ – and it’s amazing!

Willow stands tall Willow Smith is shaking off attention as Will Smith’s daughter and focusing fans’ attention on Willow Smith the artist with her newlyreleased, self-titled album. Known for her almost decadeold hit ‘Whip My Hair’ and, more recently, ‘Wait a Minute’, her new album will have eight tracks and a collaboration with her brother Jaden Smith called ‘U Know’.

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 Virgin Radio in the Morning.

THE VOICE OF OMAN LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR MUNDHIR AL ALAWI TALKS ABOUT HOW HIS MAJESTY’S VISION HAS BEEN INTERPRETED BY THE GOVERNMENT IN THE WAKE OF OMAN’S 49TH RENAISSANCE DAY

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: As the government introduces new policies and funding to help small- and medium-enterprises (SMEs) grow in the Sultanate, which sectors do you anticipate will see the most growth, and why?

DR. ASHOK KUMAR

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t’s hard to put into words how great a time this is.

Another glorious year has passed since His Majesty took over this land.

What has happened since is truly a blessing for the people here – and it’s a fact that’s visible when you look at the institutions he’s created around us.

As we all know, times are tough out here – with economic instability taking out a lot of the nation’s SME sector. And, even though there’s a lot of heat surrounding the topic, I feel the government of Oman – as per the higher orders – have been incredibly supportive to every entrepreneur in the country.

A great example of that would be my business, which was given complete support by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. I still remember when I walked into the offices, I had gone in with very little idea on how things worked.

They then guided me through it all.

They told me how I’d require more visas and issued me 10 instead of the six visas that I’d initially asked for, and also offered me valuable advice on how to run my business.

Today, you can even start a business in a day. This just goes to show how industry- and SMEfocused Oman has become. Yes, many people undergo frustrations in their fields of business, but it’s a part and parcel of life.

Over time, I learned how the people of Oman – including the people I met in each government institution – relay a message of His Majesty through their actions.

Peace, love, and unity surrounds us all. It’s now up to us to grab that opportunity and make the best of it.

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All successful economies are built on the strength of their SME’s. Much attention has been paid to developing emotional intelligence that leads to better market penetration. However, there is a growing need to focus on different aspects of successful intelligence as it has more to do with developing the ‘gut-feeling’ that makes an entrepreneur take calculated risks. SME’s per se have the weakness of being small in a large market. Developing a hinderance-free supply chain that caters to a large network of SME’s will assist them to build strength as a team, rather than as a single unit.

as innovative ideas can lead to great peaks.

There are always fluctuations in every business and Oman’s young startups shouldn’t give up when business lags. They should believe that everything will turn around after some more miles of work. It’s also crucial that young entrepreneurs receive expert advice and guidance to tackle the struggles that can arise when operating a small business. There needs to be a focus on creating this awareness and giving guidance to entrepreneurs to raise them up. Patience is the secret ingredient in developing and increasing the stability and growth of the Sultanate’s SMEs.

ISHAN GUPTA

Oman has long been believed to be a nation that grows steadily and sustainably. It’s on the MUTHUMARI PANDIAN right road to development and it currently Oman’s Small- and Medium-Enterprises focuses its efforts on bringing forward new ideas Development Symposium held in 2013 was a that its residents have conceptualized – therefore, turning point for local businesses. It focused on we see several think-tanks and conferences, startup young, vibrant entrepreneurs and their vision. funding organisations (by both governmental and It was also aimed at empowering women by encouraging them to set up their own businesses private firms), and sandboxes (for tech companies) taking shape across the country. This must mean that and develop entrepreneurial skills. the country thoroughly trusts in its people’s ideas.

Initially, many young entrepreneurs joined in And several of them – those that are usually away it and started their own businesses with the from the regular startups and more aligned towards support of the government. Doing business is a knowledge-based economy – are transforming a challenging task that requires patience and confidence to gain stability – and initially growth Oman into a tech hub in this region. Case and can be slow. Ideas should be unique and fulfill the point: we see many companies demand of the market – this is the key to success now moving forward and

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entering newer markets in the GCC. That’s proof enough that these entrepreneurs are harbouring some great ideas. Not to mention how the government adds to all of this with very low rates of interest – hovering somewhere between 2.1 per cent and 2.5 per cent – and long repayment times. This gives companies breathing space during their formative years. In the next five years, we can see Oman relying more heavily on its SMEs to fund its GDP. Right now, that number is growing quickly, but as a person who has worked in other GCC markets I’d like to believe that this is the fastest growth I’ve seen in the SME sector. And that’s quite impressive. And to all those entrepreneurs out there with crazy ideas, I’d like to say this: more power to you.

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New Debate: As over-consumption and global food wastage threatens environmental stability, how can Oman’s excess food that would normally get thrown away instead be used sustainably?

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

SARAH BERMAN

Without a doubt small- and medium-enterprises (SMEs) form the crux of Oman’s grassroots economy – and of any country’s local economy for that matter. They are the local shopkeepers, the local suppliers, local craftspeople and developers who, oftentimes, are keeping traditional industries alive which, in turn, keep that nation’s development in line with its cultural heritage.

We see support for local startups in the Sultanate on a daily basis here in Muscat. The winter Al Mouj market is a prime example of local industries and young entrepreneurs and home businesses coming together to showcase their products, raise awareness about their brands, and bring the community together. This is vital as many of these small vendors don’t as yet have marketing budgets outside of their own social media platforms.

I believe Oman’s food and beverage and technology SMEs are the most promising candidates for growth and success – especially those who base the foundation of what they do around sustainability.

We’re fortunate that here in Oman, there continues to be expansion of resources and support for young startups and SMEs – from training programs, and incubation centres, to monthly networking and mentoring events such as the Startup Grind.

We’re just tapping into Oman’s entrepreneurial potential and I look forward to seeing where it takes the nation.

MOHSIN BALUSHI was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine in Muscat.

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HIS MAJESTY ISSUES ROYAL PARDON TO 272 PRISONERS

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is Majesty, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander, has bestowed a Royal Pardon to 272 prisoners, including 88 foreign nationals, convicted in various cases, Muscat Daily reports. The Royal Pardon coincides with the occasion of the 49th Renaissance Day, and also comes in consideration of the families of prisoners.

OMAN SUPPORTIVE OF UNICEF’S SAFE LEARNING INITIATIVE

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he Sultanate has expressed its support for UNICEF’s Safe Learning Initiative after attending the ‘Safe Learning Environment’ event held on July 18 in New York, Oman Observer reports. Representing Oman was Sayyedah Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al Said, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) for International Cooperation, and Chairperson of the Children First Association.

The event was organized by the Ending Violence Council in New York under the auspices of Henrietta Fore, UNICEF Executive Director with discussions revolving around exploitation and violence against children, opposing child abuse, and recognition of progress made by international organizations, inclusive of approvals on the council’s call to action, financial pledges for safe learning initiatives, and changes in policies and programs that make schools safer environments for young learners.

During the event Sayyedah Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al Said expressed support on behalf of the Sultanate for the rights and protection of

children from all forms of violence, emphasizing the need to support the campaign in line with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She also unveiled a plan for Oman to utilize the services of programmers and developers to explore technical solutions that could result in the reduction of violence in schools, adding that three projects and innovations will be adapted for implementation in the near future. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the Sultanate’s participation in the High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.

SULTANATE RECEIVES COMMENDATION FOR MIDDLE EAST ROLE

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man has been praised at a high-level United Nations summit in New York for its role as a mediator in the MENA region following a meeting between Dr. Ali Bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce and Industry and Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Planning, and Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, President of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Oman Observer reports. As dignitaries tackled solutions to the region’s latest political developments surrounding the political and humanitarian situations in the Middle East, Oman was praised for its positive role and influence by Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, upcoming President of the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Dr. Al Sunaidy also met with Norway’s Minister

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of International Development, Dag-Inge Ulstein to discuss further means of promoting economic and trade cooperation between the two nations as well as encouraging investments that could result in a steady rise in prosperity for both countries.

WINTRY WHITE

GALLERY

THE SALT FLATS OR ‘SABKAH’ OF DUQM APPEAR LIKE SNOW AS ISMAIL AL FARSI CAPTURES THE UNIQUE MINERAL FORMATION IN PHOTOS

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YOUR

OMAN

322 ARRESTED FOR LABOUR LAW VIOLATIONS

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he Muscat Police Command, in cooperation with the Ministry of Manpower, have detained 322 people in Muscat found to be in violation of Oman’s labour law and foreigner’s residence law, reports Muscat Daily. According to an announcement made by the Royal Oman Police, of the 322 expatriates arrested, 12 were women, and all accused have been referred to the requisite judicial authorities for further investigation.

VISITORS TO JEBEL QAHWAN OMAN AIR EXTENDS RESERVE TO FACE NEW GUIDELINES 737 MAX FLIGHT

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man’s Ministry of Environment and Climae Affairs (MECA) has issued a decision for visitors to Jebel Qahwan Nature Reserve in South Sharqiyah, reports Muscat Daily.

Decision No 30/2019 was issued on July 14 by H.E. Mohammed bin Salim bin Said al Toobi, Minister of Environment and Climate Affairs.

Conditions for entry included in Article 2 encompass the following: ‘Hunting or collecting any wildlife, antiques, or even stones from the reserve is banned. Visitors are allowed to drive vehicles only on roads specified. Cutting or burning of trees in the reserve is prohibited.

Discarding waste and using firearms or conventional weapons is also prohibited.

The decision also restricts mining of any kind – including the digging of wells, and no samples are allowed

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to be collected without permission.

Article 2 goes on to outline: ‘Lighting fire is allowed only after obtaining a permit. Use of any kind of toxin is banned in the reserve.

‘Establishing any new facility or expanding old buildings inside the reserve except by permission is also prohibited. Use of drones except by permission is banned.’

Further articles in the decision go on to state that ‘camping is allowed for a maximum of 50 people in places specified’.

Additionally, visitors who would search for honey can only do so after obtaining a permit. Those in violation of the new guidelines face fines starting from RO50 up to a maximum of RO200, with fines doubling in cases of repeated violations. Residents in the reserve, their blood relatives, and government delegations will be exempt from these fees.

CANCELLATIONS THROUGH AUGUST

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he Sultanate’s national carrier, Oman Air, has announced that it will continue to cancel flights through August as a result of the grounding of Boeing 737 Max aircraft since March 2019, reports Oman Observer.

In a statement released by the airline, Oman Air elaborated: “As a result of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) directives on suspending operations of Boeing 737 Max, we have cancelled the following flights in the period between July 7 to August 31.

We are rebooking guests on alternative/next available flights to their destinations. We advise all

our guests who are due to travel during the same period to check the flight status or contact our call centre (+968) 2453-1111.

Routes expected to be affected include Mumbai, Kozhikode, Hyderabad, Kathmandu, Colombo, Dubai, Kuwait, Riyadh, Dammam, Medina, Salalah, Jaipur, Nairobi, Bengaluru, Doha, Amman, Athens, Lucknow, Karachi, Goa, Moscow, Jeddah, and Hyderabad.

RACE TO THE FINISH

GALLERY

Y PHOTOGRAPHER ISMAIL AL FARSI CAPTURES THE DUSTY THRALL OF A DONKEY RACE IN THE INTERIORS

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YOUR

DAZZLING DUQM

OMAN

WITH ALL EYES ON THE PORT CITY AS THE SULTANATE’S NEXT BIG HUB, PHOTOGRAPHER SALEH AL MAMARI CAPTURES EVERYDAY LIFE IN DUQM

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GALLERY

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A ROYAL DÉBUT

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE The Royal Opera House Muscat has officially opened the box office for its 2019-2020 season with tickets will go onsale July 29 for its season-opener performance of Georges Bizet’s iconic opera ‘Carmen’. Performed by the Teatro Colón Buenos Aires and conducted by Antonello Allemandi, ‘Carmen’ returns with original set-pieces from ROHM’s inaugural season, alongside inspired choreography by the Antonio Gadès Company. José Cura, one of the greatest tenors of our time, will sing the role of Don José, a naïve soldier who loses his heart to the capricious gypsy, Carmen, sung by charismatic mezzo-soprano Elena Maximova.

‘Carmen’ will run from September 11-14, and the show starts at 7:00 p.m. For more information or to book your tickets visit www.rohmuscat.org.om.

JULY 29

THIS U

Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel has extended their summer getaway Renaissance Day offer exclusively for Omani citizens and residents until the end of the month! Available for the entire month of July, there’s no better excuse to take some time out and cool off in one of the hotel’s four pools, wind down with a treatment at the Six Senses Spa, or simply dream the day away on their stunning private beach. The hotel also boasts a fun kids’ pool and splash pad, and a wide range of entertaining activities to keep your little ones occupied too! Price start from RO70 per night which includes overnight accommodation in a Deluxe room, a buffet breakfast, and an international buffet dinner for two at Al Khiran Kitchen. Plus, they’re also offering a 25 per cent discount on all food and beverage throughout the hotel for guests and residents for the month of July!

To book call (+968) 2479-9666.

WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

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The Pakistan Festival 2019 is happening on Friday, July 26 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center under the patronage of the Pakistan Embassy Muscat. Legendary artists and intellectuals will be participating as they showcase the best of Pakistani culture and music in celebration of the 49th Oman Renaissance Day. The festival starts at 6:00 p.m. with His Highness Sayyed Faris Fatik Al Said in attendance as chief guest. For more information email alphaeventsoman@gmail.com.

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CULTURAL COLOURS

JULY 26

MOVIES MOVIES Skin Cast: Jamie Bell, Mike Colter, Danielle Macdonald

Sachin Cast: Aju Vargese, Dhyan Sreenivasan, Reshma Rajan ‘Sachin’ follows the story of a 22-year-old youth whose name is twinned with Sachin Tendulkar, India’s famous cricketer. Sachin loves playing cricket too as he was growing up and became quite good at it. Shortly into the film, he falls in love with Anjali (Anna Rajan), a village damsel four years his senior. As trouble starts to brew and Sachin’s wedding gets cancelled, how he chooses to resolve his problems and move forward forms the

Axel 2: Adventures of the Spacekids Cast: Tom Wayland, Kate Higgins, Colleen O’Shaughnessey

basis for the film as our lead character seeks to break free from a lifetime of comparison to his idol, Sachin Tendulkar.

It’s a film that’s packed with hilarious moments – though it does drag on in a few parts. But overall, the plot is refreshing and definitely worth a watch. Although it was dragging on the first few parts, it has a refreshing plot and is overall worth a watch! In Malayalam with English subtitles.

Planet Keplar, once flourishing and lush, is now on the brink of death as its precious Kar-Lalo plant, known throughout the galaxy as a source of energy, was exploited by the ‘Earthers’. Hope springs as spacekids Axel, Jono,

Bryon Widner (Jamie Bell) belongs to a notorious gang of white supremacists when he finds himself falling in love with Julie (Danielle Macdonald) a woman he met at a rally. As they get to know each other, Bryon starts to question his personal beliefs and attempts to turn his back on racism, hatred, and violence – even if it means betraying the gang that practically raised him. ‘Skin’ is an autobiographical drama directed

by Guy Nattiv and is a bold, compelling attempt at capturing the darkness, angst, and brutality that the characters’ life revolves around. Then, just when we’re feeling the hopelessness of their circumstances, the film takes a powerful shift towards redemption that will move even the hardest of hearts.

and Gaga go on a journey battling evil Earthers, giant spaceships, and destructive robots to retrieve the last Kar-Lalo seed.

This is one fun and meaningful movie to watch with fantastic animation and just the right amount of action-packed scenes and a purposeful plot for the young minds who’ll be watching.

River Runs Red Cast: John Cusack, Luke Hemsworth, Taye Diggs

A grieving successful judge (Diggs), a hardened detective (Cusack), and a bereaved father (Lopez), take the law into their own hands as they avenge the brutal death of their sons without probable cause in the wake of racially-motivated violence carried out by two police officers (Hemsworth and Gianni Capaldi).

While it’s a film that aims to tackle some hefty subjects – namely racism and social injustice, the movie loses sight of its aim about halfway through, becoming a confusing mélange that loses sight of its message only to leave viewers questioning if there are indeed any real-world resolutions to such heavy subjects. The Team Y jury is still out on this one!

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

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OMAN’S GRASSROOTS BUSINESSES ARE THE BACKBONE OF THE NATION’S ECONOMY – AND ARE TIED INDELIBLY TO THOSE INDUSTRIES SUCH AS SUSTAINABILITY AND TECHNOLOGY THAT ARE LINKED AT THE FOREFRONT OF INNOVATION. Y EXPLORES HOW KEY STRATEGIES FOR SME SUPPORT IN THE SULTANATE IS LEADING TO SUCCESS.

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hard-working nation with aspirations that aim for the stars – that’s the Sultanate in a nutshell. We’re a nation with a million-odd dreams to stand out from the rest, waiting to be tapped via an emerging small- and medium-scale enterprise (SME) sector.

With abundant spending power and an unsaturated market for fresh businesses, Oman is teeming with scope for those with ideas up their sleeves.

There’s no shortage of talent either, as the country proudly boasts 32,441 registered SMEs operating in the country as per figures revealed by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) in 2018, and

several more that are quickly starting to take shape as time progresses.

While these SMEs are largely comprised of restaurants and cafés, fitness and recreational centres, arts and handicrafts, and small-scale importing and exporting firms, we learn that several are also cranking things up a notch to enter newer realms; businesses that support sustainable growth and embrace technology.

Little wonder then that Oman is now being hailed as a ‘startup-friendly nation’ by experts and entrepreneurs alike.

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the field of FinTech (financial technology), sustainable agriculture and botany, while others aim to showcase the nature, beauty, and handicrafts of the nation – the future of Oman is in the hands of its SMEs. In fact, the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) estimates that 16 to 20 per cent of Oman’s US$79.29bn GDP (in 2018) is from SMEs alone – a respectable number when compared with several of its GCC neighbours.

On the forefront of top startup entrepreneurs in Oman is Haris Aslam, the founder of local SME Qonsults – a company focusing on digital enablement and FinTech – that has set its roots here but has also begun diversifying beyond the Sultanate.

The company is now focusing its efforts in the field of fashion and e-commerce in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, alongside several projects in the field of product development, UI and UX design and, above all, the implementation of FinTech across various sectors in Oman.

In an interview with Y, Haris Aslam, tells us: “A great part of what we’ve achieved today goes down to hard work and equal support from the Omani government. They’ve been incredibly fundamental in our growth since we started.

“The government itself is supportive towards local SMEs… and that’s what we are: an Omani SME. And we’re proud to say that.

“We have a very strong ICV (In-Country Value) plan in place, and in line with the government’s vision, we’re hiring amazing Omani talent and planning for their training in India and other leading tech markets.

“We don’t see challenges as we’re very much aligned with the overall vision of the Sultanate; we embrace the same and are living it with dedication.”

This is an emotion shared by several other entrepreneurs from outside Oman as well.

Eng. Nasser Saleh, the tech entrepreneur and founder of madfooat.com and motivational speaker from Jordan, tells us in an exclusive interview: “Oman is going through a transitional phase now – and the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) is pushing for companies to take FinTech more seriously.

“It’s amazing the support they’re offering the startups here,” he adds, as he talks about how the government has been aiding the growth of tech-focused SMEs in the Sultanate.

Our research into the matter reveals the extent to which SMEs are backed.

With financial support pouring in from the government alongside assistance from several other private organisations, we learn that Oman has been striving to provide opportunities to those ‘looking to make a difference.’

One of the companies assisting to take the entrepreneurial drive forward is Sharakah – a closed-joint stock company incorporated by Royal Decree No. (76/98) in 1998.

In his mission statement to the public, Chairman Hani al Zadjali, is quoted as saying: “Sharakah gives full support to those who have the skills, desire, and commitment to start their own business.

“Furthermore, we support startups and existing businesses that have potential for growth, generate income, and ability to compete.

Since its inception, Sharakah claims to have provided financial support and guidance to a ‘substantial number of projects’ in different sectors including information technology (IT), engineering, manufacturing, services, and food and beverages industries.

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“Our support goes beyond financial and continues even after the financial obligation is honoured,” he adds.

While advice and assistance can lay a strong foundation for an SME, it’s often the financial support that can kickstart life into the project.

And it’s projects such as Sharakah and Inma (an SME development funder) that can inject funds ranging anywhere between RO5,000 to RO500,000 (as per Inma’s website) to the formation of an SME. In fact, the latter shows that they’ve funded a staggering RO27.6mn in loans to SMEs from 2014 to 2017 alone – however, reports suggest that the number for 2018 alone is RO14.5mn.

To boost this number further, Khimji Ramdas’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) wing, Eshraqa, has joined hands with the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Riyada).

The partnership aims to offer a range of services in the field of entrepreneurship with a focus towards supporting the development of Riyada’s staff through management programs, while also empowering existing SMEs through training and support to better market their products, and offering strategic and management support to emerging firms for the initial start-up phase.

Commenting on the topic at a recent entrepreneurial event was Mr. Nailesh Khimji, Director of Khimji Ramdas. He said, “It’s essential to ensure a thriving, innovative environment to support and sustain SMEs as they play a major role in most economies, particularly in developing nations.

“We also plan on provision for turnaround of loss-making SMEs and micro-businesses, covering various aspects of reviving a business and helping individuals to run a successful business.”

That said, even government firms are getting in on the act. Leading the way in the fight for SMEs is Haya Water – a governmental organisation controlling wastewater and water management – which has begun awarding closed tenders to SMEs. In 2017, the company had already fulfilled its target of RO1mn for SMEs – an impressive feat.

Perhaps all of this could be why the number of SMEs in Oman are on the rise.

NCSI stats show that the number of SMEs registered by Riyada stood at 606 by the end of January in 2018, with over 230 enterprises registered in the Muscat Governorate alone.

This number was further complemented by the 91 and 44 new SMEs from North Al Batinah and South Al Batinah respectively, 68 from Al Dakhiliyah, 42 and 29 from North and South Al Sharqiyah respectively, 34 from Al Dhahirah, 40 from Dhofar Governorate, 20 in Buraimi, seven in Al Wusta, and one from Musandam.

In an interview with Y, Mundhir al Alawi, the founder of 3rd Street Donuts in Al Khoudh, says: “If it wasn’t for the support from the government, my business wouldn’t be here.

“They offered me everything I required and simplified the process so that I could begin my operations quickly. In fact, the people from the ministry were so kind that they even offered me constructive advice on how I can run my business.

“Not only did this benefit me in setting up my eatery, it also gave me the morale to work to make my company a success. It felt like there were many people who were rooting for me,” the UStaught Omani adds.

Perhaps this is what has made Mundhir’s company a success in the food and beverage sector. He’s now in the process of opening two more outlets; the locations of which are currently under wraps – but all in the span of a year.

“There are several delusions surrounding the processes in setting up an SME. In reality, those who actually have done their research and have proceeded with it all have given me positive responses and have found success.

“At the end of the day, the goal to success is what drives and motivates us small-scale enterprises to keep trying to move forward daily.

With a country that stands by us in our time of need and a market that’s ever-accepting of new ideas, I think there’s no better time to start up your own business.

“As a businessman, I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

THERE ARE SEVERAL DELUSIONS SURROUNDING THE PROCESSES IN SETTING UP AN SME. IN REALITY, THOSE WHO ACTUALLY HAVE DONE THEIR RESEARCH AND HAVE PROCEEDED WITH IT ALL HAVE GIVEN ME POSITIVE RESPONSES AND HAVE FOUND SUCCESS.

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Top local entreprene Qonsults

Thawani

mani firm Qonsults proudly stands as a company that blends technology and marketing, offering smarter solutions to a nation that’s quickly transforming digitally. While their services can range from anywhere between native digital marketing to creating full-blown mobile applications, web, and FinTech services, Haris and his team have been praised for accelerating the growth of retail e-commerce here in Oman.

The company has already struck three deals pertaining to the fashion industry in Saudi Arabia and the UAE and is continuing its efforts to redefine the way we go about our daily lives.

hether you like it or not, Thawani takes cashless payments to the next level. Forget your debit and credit cards, as your smartphone is all you’ll need to make a payment from here on. Thawani’s implementation of a mobile application to proceed with payments is user-friendly. All you’re required to do is scan a barcode and the money will be transferred to the seller.

If the barcode isn’t present at the shop, you can alternatively use their supplied merchant ID or saved phone number to carry out the transaction. Vice-versa, the retailer can send them a payment request via ‘WAYYAK’ on the app, which can then be approved to complete the transaction. The app is created in conjunction with the Central Bank of Oman and is in compliance with Omani laws.

O

Ruken al Pizza

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t’s hard to come down hard on some of the top fast-food players in the market – especially when you consider how people rarely alter their eating habits. Yet, local Omani startup Ruken al Pizza has maintained a stronghold on the market since its inception in

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Founder:

Haris Aslam

Key product(s): Designing UX and UI, mobile app creation, e-commerce and FinTech

2015 – and it’s never let go since. With a blend of authentic pizzas that proudly wear Omani-style toppings, Ruken al Pizza takes fast-food dining to the next level. And what’s more amazing? They offer healthy dining options. This must probably be why they’re constantly expanding services beyond the Muscat Governorate. This tasty startup is a must-try for pizza lovers.

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Founder:

Al Mundher al Battashi Key product: Fast-food

eurs and their SMEs Dates Sohar CEO:

Majid al Amri

Key product: Cash-free payments

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he key to success isn’t one that comes easy; it may take a few months or even several years to find. Take, for instance, the case of Amna al Morshedi – the founder of Dates Sohar – who struggled for four decades (yes, that’s 40 years!) to set up her home business. Today, she’s the proud winner of the ‘Oman Entrepreneurship Award’ for the best home business, but her products reach far and wide. She proudly says that her dates and Omani halwa have been bought by tourists from the far West (USA, Canada, etc.) and even from the GCC. Amna’s business fosters 10 employees who can produce a combined output of 40kgs of Omani halwa a day.

Founder:

Amna Abdul Jalil Mohammed al Morshedi Key product: Dates, Omani halwa

Gabol Watches

A

bright, colourful (yet classy) watch-face with Arabic text on it, a brass shell, and a multifunction strap – what more could be asked for from an automatic watch? This restaurateur— turned-watchmaker is slowly yet confidently taking over the timepiece market in the country. Limited to 300 pieces, his first collection of watches has been selling like hotcakes – some have even been exported to other GCC countries. The watch is completed by a Japan-derived NH35 automatic movement and a marine-grade brass body. They’re also water-resistant up to 200 metres and the brass body can be activated to accumulate patina – a bluish-green film that coats the surface – to give it a retro look after diving.

Founder:

Adnan Gabol al Balushi

Key product: Automatic diver’s watches

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FAIR TRADE COFFEE WITH Y MEETS A LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR WHO’S BREAKING STEREOTYPES AND EMPOWERING OMANI WOMEN THROUGH THE HISTORIC ART OF TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS

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uccess finds those who knock on the right doors.

Those who have found it will tell you that it’s the hard work, perseverance, sacrifice, and love for what you’re doing that ultimately ensures the key to success.

For one Omani woman, finding success meant taking off on foot with her ideas of fashion design and fine-tuning them until she found herself in a completely different field

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altogether, ultimately offering jobs to women who are striving to let their voice be heard.

Today, Arwa Moosa al Musafir and a group of five Omani ladies find themselves the sole suppliers of Omani handicrafts to a bevy of the Sultanate’s top five-star hotels.

Arwa’s inspiring story begins in 2014, when she’d just opened her line of clothing with an aim of modernising Omani attire – a business she still runs with fair success.

Armed with a degree in business from the Modern College of Business and Science from Baushar, the Muscat-born Omani realised that offering business-to-business (B2B) services would be the only way forward for her trade to take off.

In an interview with Y, she tells us: “I began using all my experience in B2B services and approached hotels with my ideas in fashion and design. My idea came as a means to generate money without relying completely on fashion sometime [back] in February this year.

“They (the hotels) had very positive things to say, but their requirements were a bit different: they wanted Omani handicrafts and other gifts for clients, guests, and staff.

While Arwa’s profession is as hands-on as anyone can be with textiles and other materials, her experience in handicraft-making was only slowly taking shape. Yet, she nodded yes to the requests of her first client – the Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC – who wanted Omani handicrafts to gift their visiting staff from the brand’s Middle East hotels.

“The request that came to me was quite simple.

The chef, Tony, had told me that he wanted to gift the officials who were coming a nice souvenir from Oman. Their only requirement: all our products would have to be plastic-free and eco-friendly.

“I saw that as a challenge as I had virtually no experience in that department. So, I approached my colleague (name withheld as per request), who said that we could work together on prototypes.”

In just a few weeks’ time, the two had drafted the initial layouts and created their first handicrafts: various articles that were crafted with coffee, dates, luban (frankincense), and silver.

Their articles also include candles, fragrances, gift bags, and other little crafts that adopt Omani designs and traditional crafting methods.

“The hotel loved our ideas and we’ve since agreed to work together – but my partner and I soon decided that we could offer this opportunity to several women in Seeb and Al Khoud who have no means to work and show their skills.

“We keep seeing so many women in Oman who have the talent to work and make money but no platform to do so. That, coupled with the competition from expats – some of whom are more educated – means these women remain homemakers for the rest of their lives.

“That’s not something we believe in,” Arwa says.

The two businesswomen then drew up a plan: increase output of these little handicrafts and bring on women who had a passion for traditional local arts.

Having found four other women from villages in Seeb and Al Khoud – all between the ages of 18 and 60 – Arwa then decided to travel by herself and approach the top hotels in the country with her plan to market Oman with handicrafts.

“There’s no better way to market our country than with traditional articles that are made by us Omanis. It’s what we do best, and by supporting us, these hotels are not only getting the best from what our team can do, they’re helping families financially.

Needless to say, hoteliers in Oman loved her idea and her team of Omani ladies now have a stable income.

Today, some of her clients include Alila Jabal Akhdar, the InterContinental Muscat, Six Senses Zighy Bay, and the like – all asking for her Omani handicrafts to be crafted in special ways to complement the hotel’s appeal.

“Alila Jabal Akhdar, for instance, is famed for its rosewater and honey products. So, these are products that

are grown in the vicinity and need more recognition.

“What we did there was we made candles out of rosewater and fragrances with luban, honey, and rosewater. This is how we tailor our services for the clients,” she adds.

Arwa’s products can cost anywhere between RO1 and RO25 depending on the complexity of the product. Smaller articles such as beaded bracelets and dolls can cost less, while those products made out of pure silver – such as coffee cups or dallah (coffee pots) and other silverware – can cost more.

Speaking about the impact she’s created for her team of craftswomen and their families, Arwa tells us: “I’m very happy to see the positive impact on these women. Some of them had given up on their dreams after they settled down.

“But, with our new project, they’ve rediscovered their love for work.

There used to be this stigma in some families; that women need to be welleducated and only earn money by working in offices.

“We’re proving that it’s no longer the case. These women can now make money from the comfort of their homes. And, in many ways, we’re giving them the chance to shine through their work.

“Our targets are increasing by the day. And who knows? Maybe, in the coming months we’ll have more women working for us. Slowly and one-byone, we intend to change the living conditions of some of these women.

“Brighter days lay ahead of us.” ■

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OMANI TIDES ISMAIL AL FARSI CAPTURES A WAY OF LIFE AMONG THE SARDINE FISHERMEN OF DHOFAR THAT’S PERSISTED FOR GENERATIONS, IN TUNE WITH THE SEA

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arly morning, they cast their nets with the sun, their bounty glinting like silver; for a full catch is a treasure indeed for the sardine fishermen of Taqah, a wilayat in the Governorate of Dhofar. Men – fathers, grandfathers, sons, have plied their trade in these waters and along these shores for generations.

Known locally as ‘Al Dhawaghi’, Oman’s sardine fishing season begins in the southern governorates of the Sultanate in October after the replenishing monsoon season and runs until April each year.

Fishing in groups of 16 to 20, led by the most experienced fisherman in their crew, it’s a trade on which their livelihoods depend. The spoils of the catch are divided among the crew, with the largest share going to its leader.

Starting with the dawn, they gather on the beach to cast off – massive, hand-repaired nets at the ready to see what the catch of the day will hold.

If they’re lucky they’ll return nets heaving with silvery sardines, kneedeep in the Omani tides that have borne them bounty for hundreds of years, as the gulls swoop and circle. ■

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

Dermatology Clinic • Audi Showroom • Bentley Showroom • Costa Coffee • Al Fair • Jaguar Showroom • Jeep Showroom • Al Maha Petrol

Station • Mazda Showroom • McDonald’s • Mitsubishi Showroom • Oman Arab Bank • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Peugeot Showroom • Range Rover Showroom • Sayarti Auto Care • Shell Select • Skoda Showroom • The Sultan Center • Volkswagen Showroom • Volvo Showroom • Yamaha Showroom Bawshar • College of Banking

and Financial Studies • Dolphin Village • Modern College

of Business and Science • Muscat College • Muscat Private Hospital

(Emergency and

Outpatients) • Oman Medical College CBD • Al Maya Hypermarket • Alizz Islamic Bank • Bahwan Travel Agencies • Bank Sohar • Copper Chimney Restaurant • Costa Coffee • HSBC • Lama Polyclinic • NBO • Oman Arab Bank • Standard

Chartered Bank • Woodlands Restaurant Darsait • Indian Social Club • SPAR

• KIMS Oman Hospital • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Bakery • Shell Petrol Station

Al Falaj/Rex Road • Al Falaj Hotel • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Golden Oryx Restaurant • Kamat Restaurant • Toshiba Showroom Ghala • National Mineral Water Ghubra • Al Hayat

International Hospital • Al Maya Hypermarket • Bank of Beirut • Costa Coffee • Crêpe Café • GMC Showroom • LuLu Hypermarket • Moka & More • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Park Inn • Porsche Showroom • Al Raffah Hospital • Stationery Hut • The Chedi Muscat Al Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College

of Engineering • Markaz Al Bahja Mall • McDonald’s • Omantel • Starcare Hospital Al Khoudh • Al Fair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Pizza Hut Al Khuwair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Bait Al Reem Mall • Caffè Vergnano • Centrepoint

(Splash) • Diplomatic Club • Grand Hyatt Muscat • Harley-Davidson Showroom • HSBC • KFC • SPAR • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Landmark Group

• McDonald’s • Muscat Bakery • Oman Bowling Center • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Oman United Insurance • Omran • Pizza Hut • Radisson Blu • Shell Petrol Station • TGI Friday’s • The Great Kabab Factory • The Tikka Place • Zahara Travel • Zakher Mall Mabela • Gulf College Oman Mawalah • Chili’s Restaurant • Costa Coffee • Al Makan Café • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • VLCC Wellness MBD • Bank Dhofar • Centrepoint

(Splash) • SPAR • NBO • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Pizza Hut • Pizza Muscat • Shell Petrol Station MGM • Caribou Coffee • Gloria Jean’s

Coffees • Just Falafel • Ooredoo • Paul • Tim Hortons Al Mina • Bait Al Baranda • Bait Al Zubair MSQ • Al Fair • Arab Open University • British Council • Costa Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • Hana’s Slimming &

Skincare Centre • Kargeen Caffe • KFC • MacKenzies Café

& Deli • Mood Café • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Papa John’s Pizza • Pizza Hut

• Saharz Beauty Salon • Starbucks Al Murtafa’a • Bank Muscat • KFC • Muscat Hills Golf &

Country Club Muscat International Airport • Caribou Coffee • Majan Lounge • Plaza Premium Lounge Mussanah • Millennium Resort Muttrah • Shell Petrol Station Qantab • Al Bustan Palace • Marina Bandar Al Rowdha • Oman Dive Center • Shangri-La Qurum • Al Araimi Complex • Balance Health & Fitness • Bank Nizwa • BMW showroom • Burger King • Chili’s Restaurant • Crowne Plaza • Finland Eye Center • Fun Zone • Gloria Jean’s

Coffees • The Jungle Restaurant • Left Bank • McDonald’s • Mercedes-Benz Showroom • Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant • Nandos • Nissan Showroom • Oman Oil Petrol

Station • Pizza Hut • Qurum Commercial Complex • Ras Al Hamra Club • SABCO Centre • Second Cup • Starbucks • The Sultan Center • Tche Tche Café Rusayl • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-2 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-3 • Knowledge Oasis

Muscat-4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • Waljat College of

Applied Sciences Ruwi • Apollo Medical Centre • Kamat Restaurant • KFC • Khimji’s Mega

Store – Swarovski Showroom • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Oman Air • Oman UAE Exchange • Oman Trading Establishment • Saravana Bhavan Sarooj • Al Fair • Al Masa Mall • City Cinema • Ayana Spa • Cosmeclic • Emirates Medical Center • McDonald’s • Shell Petrol Station • VLCC Wellness Sawadi • Al Sawadi Beach Resort Seeb • Golden Tulip Hotel • McDonald’s Shatti Al Qurum • Bareeq Al Shatti Complex • Caribou Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • German Eye Centre • The Indus Restaurant • InterContinental

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

Economics and

Political Science

• Students Banking Area • Reception/ Canteen Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Pharmacy • National Hospitality

Institute • Pizza Hut • Shell Petrol Station Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best Cars • BLS International Services • Chevrolet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai Showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru Showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom Al Mouj Muscat • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • Al Mouj Muscat

Head Office Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint

(Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University

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Adventures

Cars

Y- F i

Gaming

CARS AND ADVENTURES

RUGGED ESCAPE

Weekend warriors in a 4x4 navigate the choppy surf and furrowed sand of Al Sifah Beach

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

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

Y- F i

Outdoors

Al Sifah Beach Ashlee Starratt finds solace on a misty afternoon at a secluded beach where the mountains touch the water’s edge.

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Cars

(Photo credit: Selective photography by Saviour Peter)

W

TRAVEL GUIDE

alk along Al Sifah Beach and you’d be forgiven if, for a moment, you think you’ve been transported to Salalah’s Muhgsail Beach.

Azure blue waters and a frothy surf lap at icing sugar sand and, all around, the craggy fingers of the Al Hajjar Mountains stretch out to meet the shoreline – almost seeming to grasp at the sand.

Its destination is the perfect pausepoint on our weekend drive from Seeb. About an hour’s journey world out here. A family from that end of with a small infant is Muscat, and just leaving as we arrive and, five kilometres from us included, there might Bandar Al Khiran, Al be eight other souls in total Sifah Beach is where on the sand. Three Omani friends have set up a small coal we come to catch our barbecue and are getting ready breath. to start grilling in spite of the lateFar less crowded and afternoon mist. A man in a wet-suit comes relatively unspoiled in comparison to lunging towards the shore, tending to his lone popular nearby Yiti Beach, Al Sifah Beach is where you fishing line that he’s propped up on a forked can easily come with a small cooler, dig your toes in the sand, and simply enjoy a few hours with a good book in back-to-nature surroundings.

Even the drive there makes the trip worthwhile, as we wind up and down the mountain passes outside past Wadi Kabir and Qantab, following their ridges further down the coast, past out-of-the-way coves and beaches, small villages and fishing towns, and hidden date palm plantations.

Following the signs past Yiti Beach towards Al Sifah, through the enveloping embrace of the mountains, if you wind down the window you’ll easily know when the sea is near once again. On this grey and hazy day, with the sky somewhat overcast, the sting of the salt sea air hit our senses in a refreshing blast, while the windshield became fogged from the humidity.

Our first time out this way, we drove a bit too far in search of the beach – not realizing we had to go off-road to find it – and ended up turning around at the sprawling Jebel Sifah resort development. A friendly security guard at the gate gave us directions in broken English that ended up being better than any Waze or Google Maps.

Going back the way we came…past the small shops and houses in the village, quiet in the Friday calm, we reach a point where the road gave way from asphalt to HOW TO GET THERE rocky scree under our tires and, following a 4X4 up the From Muscat follow the Sultan path ahead of us, we knew we were in the right direction.

Qaboos Highway through Ruwi Along the way the dunes raised up, the sand and Wadi Kabir to the foothills encroaching on the small scrub bushes and trees. We of the mountains. Take the passed a small scrum of braying donkeys nibbling on the exit towards Qantab and low-hanging leaves, and eventually came out into a small Muscat Hills resort. Go straight clearing just ahead of the sand-line proper, that a few through the roundabouts beach-goers had used as a makeshift car park. until you reach the Shangr-La Compared to the throngs of people out Yiti Beach, just roundabout. Take a right and a few kilometres back, we may as well be in a different

branch. Another couple walk hand-in-hand in the distance down the beach.

As we settle ourselves on the sand for a while, watch the waves gently crashing against the shore, we can’t help but feel a small spark of glee – as though we’re all in together on a close-kept secret. That places like Al Sifah Beach, secluded and unspoiled, can exist in such close proximity to the urban landscape are a testament to the value of nature in the Sultanate – and the will of a people committed to keeping it that way.

keep following the road-signs towards Yiti. A few kilometres before reaching Yiti Beach look for the road sign to Jebel Sifah and take a right just past the Al Maha Petrol Station. Follow the signs for Jebel Sifah until you reach the community. .

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CARS ADVENTURES

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI

FIRST DRIVE

W

hat is it that sets a good car apart from a great one?

The answer is simple: it must carry passengers from A to B with ease, offer oodles of tech to keep up with changing driving demands, be safe to run on the highways, add fun to the mix with a healthy dose of power and torque, and return acceptable fuel efficiency over the course of a drive.

By this set of criteria, the car we’re describing here is a top contender for greatness – a benchmark vehicle that determines how good a car truly is. The Volkswagen Golf GTI. It’s a model that’s gone through seven generations spanning four long decades and continues to set the standard for spiced-up sporty hatchbacks.

Perhaps it’s the simplicity and stalwart engineering

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The MK8 Golf GTI takes Volkswagen’s staple nameplate one step further in a market flooded with competition…and wins by a long margin

– of everything from the motor to the interior and exterior design – that helps Volkswagen keep its signature mark.

It all begins with the functional design – the sharp LED headlamps, large air intakes to cool the engine, the subtle character lines, and the tall hatchback stance – that help distinguish the Golf GTI from a sea of other hot hatchbacks that try to replicate the same formula.

The GTI signature is carried forward with the red accent that runs across the front grille and through to the headlamps. Aside from that and the ‘GTI’ badges, understated roof spoiler on the tailgate, dual exhausts, and the fancy 18-inch alloys, there’s not much else to the car’s overall design when compared with its rudimentary Golf sibling.

A wide posture, along with a moderately-sized wheel-base (in the five-door hatchback spec) keeps the car looking proportional from all angles. Couple that with the fancy grey paint job as seen on our tester and we had a winner on our hands.

Moving over to the interior reveals a simple and functional cabin. There’s enough high-grade leather and alcantara to justify the price, and much of the dashboard is made up of soft-touch plastics.

Cheaper panels reside on the lower portions of the cabin – on the doors where the map pockets and bottle holders lie – that your eyes won’t meet immediately.

Taking up the dashboard is a slick 8-inch touchscreen running a user-friendly interface. The response times are average, but the optional, usercustomisable digital 3D screen on the instrument cluster makes a world of difference.

Our top-spec variant also received semi-leather and alcantara sport-bucket seats that were wellbolstered and supportive, while the rear seats were sizeable for two adults and one child. Leg room is above-average for a car in this

D e s t i n at i o n

Po s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y-Fi

Gaming

CARS

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI Specifications: • Engine: 2.0-litre ‘turbocharged’ in-line four-cylinder • Transmission: Six-speed ‘dualclutch’ automatic • Power: 230hp • Torque: 350Nms • Top Speed: 250kph Front-wheel drive Park Assist Cruise control 8-inch infotainment screen LED headlamps and tail lights 6-way adjustable driver seat Back-up camera with 360-degree parking sensors 18-inch alloy wheels Leather and alcantara upholstery Remote keyless entry and push-button start Blind Spot Monitoring

segment, but head room is top-class.

Volkswagen completes its winning formula with its drivetrain, and on the forefront of it lies a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine pumping out a respectable 230hp and 350Nms of torque.

It’s further coupled with a six-speed DSG auto-manual gearbox that drives the front wheels, and helps it accelerate from zero to 100kph in about 6.5 seconds.

Numbers, however, only tell a part of the story – as what makes the Golf GTI truly special is the car’s agility and driving dynamics; especially in the corners, where the car shines.

Throwing the car into ‘Dynamic’ mode stiffens up the

suspension and the steering wheel while keeping the gearbox and accelerator pedal on its toes for instant response. The latter response times are nearly telepathic when you’re on the go, and the gearbox shifts gears instantly. We also didn’t experience any of the low-speed jerks normally associated with dual-clutch gearbox systems.

Driving feel is sensational, with exceptional amounts of grip while throwing the car into sharp corners. Understeer is virtually non-existent thanks to the front differential, while a fit of lift-off oversteer can creep in to add more fun to an already punchy driving experience.

This allows the car to attack corners at some serious speeds; sometimes even at 80kph in tight bends without any form of ESP or traction control interference.

THE FOUR POTBANGING GTI DOES MORE THAN JUST OFFER A SPORTY CAR FOR THE MASSES. IT TAKES THE RECIPE AND SPRINKLES JUST ENOUGH FUNCTIONALITY AND TECH TO KEEP IT IN CONTENTION AS THE BEST HOT HATCHBACK IN THE MARKET. The feeling can be mind-numbing and, at times, intimidating – especially when you factor in the size of the car.

Ride comfort is decent when the car is set in ‘Normal’ and ‘Eco’ modes, and there’s very little tire and wind noise creeping in at speeds of up to 100kph. Meanwhile, brake feel is excellent and there’s a level of progression to the stopping power that we haven’t quite experienced in a car of this class.

In all, the four pot-banging GTI does more than just offer a sporty car for the masses. It takes the recipe and sprinkles just enough functionality and tech to keep it in contention as the best hot hatchback in the market.

In pursuit of that, VW has created an on-road masterpiece.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI takes a very simple description. It’s a hatchback that’s flawed across a handful of avenues, but flawless in the grand scheme of things. And for that very reason, the car gets our stamp of approval.

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CARS ADVENTURES

1. Watch the wildlife on the savannah below from a hot air balloon.

2. Go on a safari drive with a highlytrained guide.

3. Witness the incomparable beauty of the wildebeest’s ‘Great Migration’.

4. Visit the Maasai village and explore its living cultural history.

5. Indulge in a sumptuous resort ‘hippopool’ breakfast beside the Mara River.

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CRADLE OF LIFE Kenya’s lush heartland continues to be one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions, where ancestral ways of life still prevail

Destination

Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Swati Basu Das recommends

MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, KENYA

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residing over an unspoiled 1,510 sq km tract of African savannah, Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve in the Rift Valley Province, is an untamed frontier where the African continent’s majestic ‘Big 5’ game animals (the lion, African elephant, African leopard, rhinoceros, and African buffalo) roam freely and uninhibited. The largest-known habitat of the African lion, the Maasai Mara is also home to a plethora of biodiverse species like the cheetah, hyena, hippo, gazelle, jackal, zebra, warthog, and wildebeest.

Filled with natural charisma, this sprawling grassland follows an unpretentious rule survival of the fittest. Named for the Maasai tribe who made their ancestral homeland on the savannah, and the Mara River meandering through this plain land, it’s an expanse of breathtaking vistas, while its flora and fauna have made many a celebrated appearance through the lens of wildlife documentarians.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve shares a border with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to form the Serengeti-Mara eco-system. Here, its wildlife demonstrates their restless march which, every year during the ‘Great Migration’ H IP P O S BATH from July to October, is a spectacle to behold.

BANKS E AND BASK OF THE A MARA LONG THE Far from the madding crowd, in the lap of nature, a sudden cacophony of roars, R IV E R trumpets, bleats, growls, purrs, laughs, bellows, brays, and grunts play out in a constant bid for dominance.

The gutteral roar of lions and leopards, or the nimble-footed cheetah travelling up to 120 kms in a silent yet deadly chase across the grasslands alerts every living creature that their future existence is anything but certain. Kill or be killed, the dance begins between hunter and prey.

The Maasai Mara’s vast savannah has scattered acacia (umbrella thorn), and kigelia (sausage) trees that merge seamlessly with the horizon, while the bright orange hue of sunrise and sunset ignites a magic fire over all.

The Mara River - the river of life and death - runs its meandering course through the reserve. A migratory route of wildebeests, its banks are a hunting ground for apex predators and a relaxing zone for the hippos-though every vigilant footstep cautions the next.

The awe-inspiring Maasai Mara is nature’s playground, its killing floor, its wonderland that never fails to amaze those fearless enough to venture into it.

My favourite place Perched on a hilltop, the Mara Serena Lodge overlooks the savannah and its wandering herds of animals. Inspired by the traditional Maasai ‘manyatta’ house, its design and interiors reflect the essence of the Maasai people. The bush barbecue dinner arranged by the lodge around the campfire is cheered on by fearless Masaai dancers. And it may be be one of the only resorts to offer breakfast by the hippo pool – a secluded spot on the banks of the Mara River where you can take your morning meal against a backdrop of bathing and basking hippopotami (albeit a safe distance away). A 280-km drive from the capital city of Nairobi, the Mara Serena Lodge in the Maasai Mara National Reserve can be reached by car or aircraft. The six-hour drive from Nairobi will take you along the bumpy and dusty roads of the Great Rift Valley, where you can experience Kenya’s countryside and, as soon as you cross the Reserve’s Oloololo Gate, be ready to encounter wildlife. To minimize the travel time, you can also take a flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Mara-Serena air-strip that will take you around two hours, with the resort a five-minute drive away once you land.

E BERS HAV R IB E M E M T I A S L A A A R M NCEST E T H E IR A L ON G M A D ANNAH V A HE S H OM E ON T

Highlights A quintessential Maasai Mara safari is the ultimate opportunity to view the reserve’s wildlife closely in their natural habitat. Be it through 4X4 safari jeeps or in a hot-air balloon flying over the savannah, the grassland looks spotted with cloud shadows and animals, and is dotted with acacia trees and well-built termite mounds. Every resort or safari camp operates guided tours from dawn to dusk. The annual ‘Great Migration’ of 1.5 million wildebeest from July to October is a life-changing experience to see as the great herds cross the Mara River, continuously circling the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem for breeding and in search of food. The migration season is when the big cats ‘kill for thrill’ and watching their frantic chase is nail-biting. In their brilliant blue and red attire, known as ‘shuka’, and colourful beaded jewelry, the Maasai people are true warriors, with a skill to survive along with the predators and the prey. Their jumping dance known as the ‘adumu’ is rhythmic and uplifting, while a visit to their mud-thatched villages sheds light on their centuries-old culture and lifestyle.

Lowlights

Carry insect repellents and take malaria precautions. Yellow fever vaccinations are not mandatory, but advisable while travelling to Kenya.

W IL D E BE THE M ESTS CHAR ARA R GE AC ‘G R E A IV E R D U R IN R O S S G T M IG R A T IO N ’ T H E

Souvenirs Shuka or the Maasai robe, colourful beaded jewelry, and carved wooden artifacts.

Getting there Oman Air operates a direct flight to Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport from Muscat.

Where to stay Remain connected to nature by opting for an authentic bush camp or luxury lodges within the reserve . Booking.

com or tripadvisor.com can provide a detailed list.

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

D e s t i n at i o n

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

GADGETS-TO-GO The Y Geek Squad rounds up four essential gadgets to bring along on your next road-trip across the Sultanate THE FIRST CUP Whether you’re on a commute to work or a longhaul oad-trip to the far ends of Oman, you’re going to need to gulp down your morning caffeine to stay sane. If you’re one of the masses who can’t function without their daily dose of espresso, here’s one way to get things going: get yourself a Handpresso Auto Capsule. This tall, flask-like gadget plugs straight into the 12V outlet in your car and works effortlessly with Nespresso capsules. The prep time of two minutes is overshadowed by the effective 19 bar pressure that ensures the capsule is drained dry by the boiling water – and that you get the most out of every drop.

Get it from handpresso.com for RO88.

WIRELESS EVERYTHING

TOP CONNECTIVITY

Why clutter up the inside of your car when you can sort out all your charging needs using wireless technology? The iOttie Easy One Touch Qi Wireless Car Mount looks its part, with a functional plastic body and curved edges, polished plastic panels, and a telescopic arm to help you adjust the placement and direction of your phone. As a bonus, it comes pre-built with Qi wireless charging and two extra USB ports to accommodate more devices. Charging times are comparable with traditional wireless chargers – so it’s slow – but it’s a futuristic gadget that will fit your needs on a road-trip. Buy one from amazon.com for RO19.2.

With gadgets connecting us in ways we could only dream of a decade ago, it’s safe to say that technology has taken over to make certain aspects of life a little bit safer. Case in point? The goTenna Mesh – a stylish yet practical device that can connect you and friends from your group during a road-trip or trekking session. Its 6.4kms of range offers you an option to have live chats and even track one another’s position through your smartphone, along with additional tricks such as offline maps support, mesh-networking for private messaging, and an emergency button to alert local rescue teams. It’s all yours for RO69 from gotennamesh.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

STAY COOL

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THE SUN’S UP AND SUMMER IS ON FULL-BLAST. AND IF THERE’S ONE THING MORE ANNOYING THAN HAVING TO ENDURE THE HEAT YOURSELF, IT’S HAVING TO KEEP THINGS COOL IN YOUR CAR. THOSE COLD SODAS YOU BOUGHT FROM THE STORE AREN’T GOING TO STAY COOL FOR LONG – AT LEAST NOT FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR JOURNEY. ENTER THE COOLULI MINI FRIDGE FOR THE CAR – A DEVICE THAT CAN KEEP COLD SIX CANS OF SODA OR 4-LITRES WORTH OF FOODSTUFFS. THE MAGIC COMES FROM A THERMOELECTRIC SYSTEM THAT ONLY REQUIRES A 2A CURRENT. THIS MEANS YOU CAN CONNECT IT TO THE USB PORT IN YOUR CAR, THROUGH A PORTABLE CHARGER, OR EVEN YOUR LAPTOP AND DRAW CURRENT FROM IT. THIS QUICK SOLUTION TO ALL YOUR COOLING NEEDS IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON.COM FOR RO17.

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F1 2019 Info Box

Developer: CODEMASTERS Publisher: CODEMASTERS Genre: RACING SIMULATION Platforms: PS4, XBOX ONE, ANDROID, PC, AND IOS

The Y Geek Squad visits a game that’s revving up the true spirit of motor racing in a time when all seems forgotten (and a bit too sane)

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ith ratings at an all-time low and fans up in arms over underwhelming and predictable races, press for the multi-billion-dollar sporting event, Formula One, has never been lower.

Add to the misery a rant by automotive journalist, media personality, avid F1 follower, and commentator, Jeremy Clarkson, who says he wants races to be “exciting again”, and you’re left with bits and pieces of a sporting event that once was the pinnacle of high-speed racing.

Whether this will cause a wind of change is to be seen – but as it turns out, you can change all that and twist it in any way you see fit with the F1 2019 game.

Want to ram (a smug) Lewis Hamilton out of course and off the tables for a championship lap run, or enter a corner in the famous Monaco circuit with a spectacularly tail-smoking drift? Then this is the game for you.

Available on nearly every console you can currently buy, the game gives you an

in-depth look into the world of F1 with just about enough detail and graphical nuance that will have you questioning if this all isn’t just a bit too real.

On the forefront of it all lies the EGO engine 3.0, which has been tweaked to eke heavy renders out with just enough physical accuracy to make you feel like you’re actually in the driver’s seat.

While this can be a blessing to many, it also adds to the complexity of the game. You’re now expected to force your way into the brakes earlier than before (previous titles were much more forgiving), giving the game a more realistic approach to racing.

Plus, the controls are responsive irrespective of the controller. As expected, a Logitech steering wheel set makes for the most interactive gameplay, but you can achieve great results even with a regular PlayStation Dual Shock.

Things only get a bit sketchy when there’s a change of climate.

The ultra-realism makes way for some challenging races on tight circuits – and you’ll need to learn the track in great detail to make your way around it.

Add to all that the classic series set – with cars from the 1950s – and you can understand how daring it was for the older generation of racers to take the helm of the

single-seater race car.

In many ways, that’s what F1 2019 is all about – taking you back to the early days of F1 when race martials were mere point-keepers and excitement between the checkered flags was fought in screaming automobiles that you could push to the absolute limits.

F1 2019, for those very reasons, is a fantastic game. An unapologetically authentic offering that’s worth every penny.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

OUTFIT OVERTIME

We get it. Balancing your daily 9-to-5 is enough of a challenge without the added task of finding a summer wardrobe that keeps you cool yet modest. Here are some pieces that aren’t afraid to work overtime!

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

T t Ge

k o o L e h

, reet ook t s l gh e hi get the h t d to you to n e gh ps e hi att hel h t rr Fromlee Sta Ash

Move over cotton. Linen may just be the official fabric of summer and you’re going to want to live in it! Gauzy, breathable, and light-as-air it’s comfort encompassed. Case in point? These posy-pink culottes from Zara that are perfect for both an outing, or the office. Price: RO15.3.

Don’t be afraid to go bold with a summery pop of colour to liven up your work wardrobe. This silky V-neck camisole from Matalan is the perfect pair-up to those breezy linen trousers!

Grab it for RO3.3.

The humble shirtdress is here to stay. Modest yet stylish, make it a summer staple in your work wardrobe rotation by opting for a version in a light, breathable fabric – likes this buttercup-yellow striped viscose version from M&S. Bag it for RO16.9.

Cover that cami and avoid a chill from your office A/C on overdrive with a light cardigan that’s both stylish and professional. This navy-blue number from MANGO is our idea of modest-a-lamode. Own it for RO7.

Sometimes, no matter what you do, you just can’t escape the heat. Office A/C on the fritz? Keep your tresses out of your face by pulling your hair back with a tropicalprint scrunchy headband – like this one from Aldo that also doubles as summer’s cutest accessory! Snag it for RO4.6.

Want to accessorize for the office without weighing yourself down in the humidity? Slip on these pretty-as-a-picture feathered earrings from Bershka and forget about them, as they’re barely there!

On-the-tag: RO4.9.

Okay, we’re going ahead and mentioning the unmentionable – just how much our feet sweat in the summer. Gross. But it’s a fact of life. And as those pair of beach flip-flops just aren’t appropriate attire for your 9:00 a.m. briefing – yet, you don’t fancy your footsies being cramped up in a pair of stifling pumps either, then these easy-peasy mustardcoloured slip-ons from Call It Spring are the footwear for you.

Price: RO13.4.

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HEALTH

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Health

BEAUTY

Fa s h i o n

Home

Fa m i l y

Ageless BEAUTY You’re only as old as you feel – and for all those young-at-hearts who want to look the part, we’ve rounded up some of beauty’s best little helpers to get you on your way

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ull disclosure – the beauty industry can be ruthless in its attempt to sell us on our insecurities and perceived flaws.

And that’s not okay. What’s important to make clear that what makes us beautiful can’t be bought, sold, injected, caked, or painted on our face. Products fade, but a smile is timeless; and every wrinkle, frown and laugh line well-earned as signs of a life lived. Beauty, at any age, is always a reflection of what’s inside.

With that in mind, we understand that the first signs of aging can still be alarming – and we’re not always ready to welcome the start of this new stage of life. We here at Team Y have weathered our fair share of incoming gray hairs, and lines on our faces where there were none before and embracing these changes as they came took time for some of us – but it was also liberating.

So, to make the transition a little easier, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite gentle products to help take the edge off aging, without interfering too much in what nature intended.

Protect and nourish Regardless what age you are – nothing damages your skin faster than the sun.

That’s why regular use of a daily SPF moisturizer can prove essential in delaying the onset of those fine lines, wrinkles and sunspots. We love Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer SPF 25 (RO14.9), as its fast-absorbing with skin-boosting peptides that leave you fresh-faced.

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Fade fine lines

While we can’t escape those wrinkles forever, we can help minimize their early onset by using a retinol-based formula cream which helps diminish fine lines by encouraging skin-cell turnover. While most retinol products are on the pricier side, you can snag RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream for just RO5.7 at most local department stores or pharmacies.

exposure and product damage and you’ve got a recipe for brittle, broken hair the more you age. Enter Strivectin Ultimate Restore Densifying Foam Treatment (RO16.9). This hair-saver is a restorative blessing for your tresses, helping to reduce hair loss and strengthen your strands.

Strengthen your strands

As we age, our hair can naturally become thinner due to a number of factors that include changes in hormone levels or even our diet. Add to that a lifetime of hair-colouring, sun

Smooth out your pout

Our lips aren’t immune to those fine lines either as we age! That’s why it’s ideal to select a formula of lip-colour that’s hydrating – since matte varieties can tend to clump up or define, rather than smooth over, any lines. A colour rule of thumb? A perky pink in a punchy shade that complements your skintone always makes you look fresh and youthful! (And a sincere smile never hurt either!) We love Maybelline New York Lip Studio Lip Color Palette (RO1.7) and are pretty sure you will too! ■

Beauty

HEALTH

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BURNING OUT How much cardio is too much?

Y delves into the world of cardio fitness to find out how too much exercise could lead to illness and injury

2) You could gain more weight.

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he key to a healthy lifestyle begins with the first step you take. Those initial steps, however, can turn into several more – sometimes more than your body should experience in a day.

Whether you know when to stop those long hours of circuit training, cycling, running, walking, or swimming – in short, the pillars that form the basis of cardiovascular (or simply ‘cardio’) activities – determines your health and well-being.

Cardio can help in quick weight-loss – it’s a fact.

Though, shedding off those unnecessary calories quickly can often lead to over-exertion through cardio which forms the basis of a condition known as ‘cardio overload’.

As odd a concept as it may seem to those who live to crunch the miles and get their hearts pumping, it’s an important matter that’s gaining traction as we learn that too much cardio can do your body more harm than good.

You heard us right. Doing too much cardio can result in weight-gain. This comes from the ‘stress’ hormone cortisol that’s released in small doses when you’ve strained your body for hours.

Cortisol can trick your brain into storing more fat by failing to break down sugar. Now you know why you can’t shake off that abdomen and love handles.

3) You’ll pick up on overuse injuries.

Cardiovascular exercise requires body movements – and too much of that can cause a strain in your knees, ankles, hips, and lower back.

Your pain exerted on your body will persuade you to stop, but those who ignore those calls can often find themselves struck down with severe forms of injuries (example: an ACL tear).

4) There’s no energy left in you.

While many believe that a long, strenuous cardio session boosts your energy levels, burning too many calories in one go can leave your mental and physical well-being at an all-time low.

All of this can Here are some reasons why you might combine to result in consider dialing back on the cardio and you dreading your perhaps incorporating other forms of exercise. A solution exercise into your regimen. to this, as per JeanPaul Johnson, a 1) It can weaken your heart. fitness instructor A broken heart (figuratively) can be the best and nutritionist motivation to hit the treadmill, but research based out of conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Oman is to keep Information (NCBI) in the US states that it could a healthy balance lead to life-threatening complications. For instance, between cardio and the study showed that people who run marathons, workouts. ultra-marathons, triathlons, and other endurance He says: “Feeling sports could suffer from heart dysfunction, plaque constantly tired or buildup, stiff arteries, and other cardiac problems having to deal with arising from a weakened right ventricle. regular injuries can

leave your mental health lower than ever too. A way to change that would be to incorporate yoga into your routine.

“Not only does it help your mind and body ease a bit. It can be a good transition for cardio-seekers.

Also, it lowers your body’s cortisol levels alongside your blood pressure.”

Another solution to this condition is strength training; the obverse of cardio.

Strength training focuses on maintaining muscle mass and will boost your resting metabolic rate.

This can include lifting weights, doing push-ups, squats, jabs, and even leg presses.

As Jean-Paul says: “Cardio training can be amazing for your health when done in short doses, but it’s important to balance it with strength training to achieve better and longer-lasting results.”

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.

Tr e n d

YUMMY

New Restaurant

Reviews DRINK UP!

Don’t let dehydration creep up on you this summer. Stay hydrated and replenish your fluids with these easy-tomake refreshers

Summer

QUENCHERS

Stay happy and hydrated this season with a tall, cool glass of goodness featuring some of the season’s freshest ingredients

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t’s midsummer in Oman and the heat is here to stay. But even 45 degrees Celsius outside isn’t always incentive enough for us to be downing our eight glasses a day. Surprising? Perhaps.

Dangerous? Most definitely. Dehydration can occur twice as quickly during the hot summer months, whether you’re spending time outside doing even light activity, or indoors with the office A/C on the fritz, foregoing H20 for a grande latté.

Some good rules of thumb to keep in mind to avoid the debilitating – and potentially deadly – effects of

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dehydration are to drink plenty of fluids even when you don’t feel thirsty. Chances are if you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Avoid beverages that contain high amounts of sugar which can actually exacerbate dehydration, and always keeping bottled water on-hand if you’re exercising or doing any activity outdoors.

The point? Your body needs water. But if guzzling glass after glass doesn’t float your boat, try mixing it up with some flavourful infusions such as cucumber, mint, or berries, ‘fruity’ ice cubes, or one of these delicious cool concoctions!

Ginger Lychee Lemonade

Raspberry Lemon Iced Tea

Tart meets sweet in this cool cup that’s both healthy and hydrating to boot!

It doesn’t get much more § Once done, lower the heat ‘summer-in-a-glass’ than this as and let simmer until the an iced tea classic gets a ‘berry’ berries are softened. This should take delicious upgrade. about ten minutes. § Let the mixture cool and then strain Ingredients: the syrup to a jar using a sieve.

For the syrup To make the lemon tea § 2 cups fresh raspberries, plus § In a deep pan, bring two cups of water extra for garnish to a boil. § 1 cup sugar § Add tea to the pan, cover, and turn off § ¼ cup water the heat. Let it brew for five minutes.

For the lemon iced tea § Once done, strain the tea into the § Juice of 4 lemons raspberry syrup jar using a sieve. § 1 lemon, thinly-sliced for § Next, add the lemon juice and give it a garnish stir. § 2 cups water § Keep the tea in the refrigerator until it § 1 tsp tea leaves, or 1 tea-bag cools down completely. § To serve, drop some ice cubes in a Method: glass, add a slice of lemon, two or three fresh raspberries, and pour over To make the syrup the raspberry iced tea. § In a saucepan, mix all the ingredients and bring it to a (Source: www.playfulcooking.com) boil.

Ingredients: § ½ cup ginger (minced) § ½ cup fresh lemon juice § Ice cubes (as needed) § 1 glass lychee juice § 1 cup grapes § ½ cup chia seeds § Mint leaves § A pinch of salt Method: § In a jar, combine the minced ginger, lemon juice, and lychee juice. § Add some ice, and salt to taste and blend well. § Pour the mixture in a jar.

Add the sliced grapes and chia seeds and mix well with a spoon. § Garnish it with mint leaves (Source: Chef Vicky Ratnani/www.food.ndtv.com) and serve chilled.

Banana Sushi Craving a quick-and-easy cool snack to chase down that tall, cool glass of summer spritzer? This foolproof sweet treat is just the ticket.

Ingredients: § 1 medium banana § 1 Tbsp nut butter (any kind will work!) § Optional toppings: chopped nuts, chia seeds, shredded coconut Method: § Peel banana and then spread on one tablespoon of nut butter. § Sprinkle on optional toppings and press them lightly into the nut butter to ensure they’ll stick. § Using a sharp knife, evenly slice banana into ‘sushi’ pieces.

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FOOD DRINK

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New Restaurant

REVIEWS

ge

an R p To

Info Box

LE PETIT BELGE Lower level, Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC Opening hours: 12:00 p.m. till 3:00 a.m. (Sat-Thurs) 2:00 p.m. till 2:00 a.m. (Friday) Contact: (+968) 2425-2000 Dinner for three: RO43.6

Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 9/10 FOOD 8/10 AMBIENCE

Delightful Flemish fare and Belgian comfort food classics in an unpretentious ambience ideal for the after-work crowd

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

LE PETIT BELGE ELEVATED FLEMISH COMFORT FOOD MEETS WORLD CUISINE IN A CLASSY-CASUAL AMBIENCE THAT HAS US PACKING UP THE LEFTOVERS

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hen dining out with friends, finding a spot that ticks all the boxes is a fine foodie balance – with someone always having to sacrifice their preference for the sake of the group. Whether it’s the vegetarian who’s left floating on an iceberg lettuce at the steakhouse, or that one friend who somehow manages to convince the group to head down to the noisy lounge when all you wanted was a quiet coffee and a catch-up.

So, it was with much anticipation that we patiently waited for Le Petit Belge to open its doors at the Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC after months of antsy expectation. We were excited.

We were hungry. And, most of all, we were pumped that yet another eatery offering was opening up in the Airport Heights neck of the woods.

If you can forgive its out-of-the-way location, the Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC has done a stellar job at drawing in the masses with its solid F&B cast of characters. Its Friday Big Chill brunch has quickly become a weekend institution in Muscat, while its gorgeous Charm Thai restaurant is serving up big, authentic flavours from the Land of Smiles.

When we caught wind that their latest offering, Le Petit Belge, was finally open we made a Thursday night beeline over to check it out.

Entering the restaurant, we’re greeted by a neon tube-light slogan declaring ‘Fortune favors the

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brave’. It’s a sign of things to come, as their menu is a force to be reckoned with.

Elevated tables and comfortable booths surround the central dining area, while black-brick walls, funky light fixtures, and abstract wall art create an upscale yet comfortable ambience. We seat ourselves at a large elevated banquette table near the entrance to the outdoor terrace and settle in to scan their menu.

There we find Belgian classics and Flemish comfort food writ large, next to unexpected bistro bites such as tuna tartare, chicken Cordon Bleu, and quinoa with super-greens that lend the menu a distinctly global touch.

To begin, we go for a classic round of Belgian starters – bitterballen and a portion of Belgian fries. Though the restaurant is filling up with the Thursday evening dinner crowd, the service is fast and friendly – our starters appearing over the horizon tout suite.

The bitterballen are round and golden, fried to a perfect crisp and filled with an unsually moreish mixture of corned beef and served with a side of spicy (and we mean spicy) brown Dijon mustard.

It’s a combination that we just can’t get enough of, devouring in short order while we dip our pipinghot, fluffy Belgian fries in Le Petit Belge’s housemade mayo.

For our mains we go for a hodge-podge of offerings with a global flair. There’s the grilled octopus served with roasted peppers and potatoes and tossed in aioli, a tuna tartare and classic

Ceasar salad for the health-conscious at our table, and a portion of Le Petit Belge’s signature truffle mac ‘n cheese and a slab of their Australian grainfed rib-eye for those of us who are not.

Both the grilled octopus and the truffle mac ‘n cheese come served in molten-hot cast-iron skillets and are lush comforts to behold, with their rich aromas and depth of flavour. We dig in with our forks to the mac ‘n cheese first – breaking through its delicate bubbly crust to the fragrant truffle bechamel pasta below. It’s sinful. And we love every single bite.

The octopus is also delightfully flavoursome – toothsome without being overly rubbery and offset nicely by the light aioli and zingy peppers and perfect with a squeeze of lemon over top.

The Caesar salad and the tuna tartare are both standouts – the tartare in particular, layered with a smooth avocado emulsion and zesty greens. The fish is fresh and the marination sublime. And as for the rib-eye? Well, there wasn’t enough mushroom sauce in the world to slake our appetites for this truly exceptional cut.

Proving to those palates abroad that Belgium has more up its sleeve on the culinary front than chocolate, waffles, and steaming pots of mussels, Le Petit Belge is a tasty ambassador indeed. ■ Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com.

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