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Issue 110

The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

Also inside

The Arabian Review

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES OF BANKING AND 25 YEARS OF CONSUMER BANKING IN BAHRAIN

Bahrain/India RelationsNew ties; new opportunities

BMW 6 Series650i review

High Net WorthSuper Yachts in Dubai

TURKISHAIRLINES.COMDESTINATION: ISTANBUL

Contents

48. Gulf Insider TravelIstanbul

more inside...

Gulf

Fina

ncia

l Ins

ider

March 2014

Bahrain Examining the 14 February Coalition

26

24

ProfileDr. Lucy Lui

46

BahrainThe Challenge Ahead for SMEs

BusinessNext Decade Research Trends

44

BusinessBahrain – India bilateral ties

32

30InterviewAshim Kumar, the new Director of EY Bahrain’s Training Centre

42MENADid the Arab Revolutions Fail?

BahrainLearning a Lesson from Waitrose Bahrain

28

62. Men’s FashionSaks Fifth Avenue

60. MotoringBMW 650i Gran Coupe

64. ArtWael Darwish

Contents

20Cover Story

Citibank Celebrates 25 years of Consumer Banking in Bahrain

Printed at Awal Press, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Distribution Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation, Tel. +973 1748 0800

UAE: Jashanmals, Tel. +971 4341 9757

P.O. Box 60357, Kingdom of BahrainTel: +973 1700 4575 Fax: +973 1772 1722

Published by:

Registered as Gulf Financial Insider with Ministry of Information approval no. TFI-431©. No part of this publication may be reproduced

in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not

necessarily those of the publisher.

*Articles by these correspondents are the copyright of Telegraph Media Group,

111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0DT, England.

Comment...Publisher & Editor in Chief

Admin & Finance

Business Development

Layout Designs

Sales

Photography

Contributors

Distribution Executives

- Nicholas Cooksey

- Nikesh Pola

- Redia Castillo

- Dhanraj S

- Chelsea Copenhaver M. +973 3678 8748 [email protected]

- Shareef Panhatt- Redia Castillo

- Melissa Nazareth- Hugh Haskell-Thomas- Rogier Van Zaventer- Ramzy Baroud- Nicholas Cortes- Redia Castillo- Phil Darby

- Mohammed Yousif- Muhammed Shareef P- Rafnaj

read GulfInsider online www.Gulf-Insider.com


Issue 110


Also inside

The Arabian Review

CELEBRATING FOUR DECADES OF BANKING AND 25 YEARS OF CONSUMER BANKING IN BAHRAIN

Com

plim

enta

ry C

opy

Bahrain/India RelationsNew ties; new opportunities

BMW 6 Series650i review

High Net WorthSuper Yachts in Dubai

The Arabian Review

Media

How nations declineThe Economist recently did a great feature on Argentina, explaining how it used to be one of the greatest countries in the world.

In 1914 it was among the wealthiest, most opulent places in the western hemisphere. GDP per capita was higher than in most of Europe, and while the rest of the world blew itself to smithereens in the Great War, Argentina smartly remained neutral. By 1918, it was one of the only prosperous, debt-free nations left.

But that was then. Decades of corruption, debt, and absurd economic centralization have taken a toll on the country and its economy. Its people have had their livelihoods ravaged by price controls, capital controls, media controls, and people controls. Its government has nationalized private pensions, confiscated private assets, spawned a currency crisis, and corrupted public institutions.

Theft and coercion are now pervasive. Crime has become the means of survival for a substantial portion of the population. Argentina is hardly recognizable when compared to its former greatness - the result of a long, steady decline.

This is what happens after decades of poor choices.

Regrettably there are today a number of ‘rich’ Western nations in this cycle.

Established since 2004, Gulf Insider is the multi award winning Arabian business and current affairs magazine that also covers property and expat news, interviews, car reviews, travel features, even a bit of art and fashion.

The monthly print edition of Gulf Insider is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers. There’s also limited distribution in other GCC states via airline lounges, duty free, ARAMCO in the KSA, and other strategic locations.

Gulf Insider now also includes: Easy to navigate website that offers online access to the magazine and much, much more.

Access to valuable GCC news reported by the international media thanks to a free weekly email service for readers.

Visit www.Gulf-Insider.com

Arabia’s most intelligent magazine

8 Gulf Insider March 2014

Inbox Readers’ Letter


Issue 108


The Arabian Review

BAHRAINManama Dialogue

REAL ESTATE2014 Trends

ECONOMY2014 Outlook


Issue 107


The Arabian Review Gulf Insider

Interview withH.E. Saeed Abdul Jalil Al FahimChairman of the Board – International Investment Bank

Islamic BankingWorld Islamic Banking

Conference in Bahrain

BahrainReal Estate Report

Men’s FashionBoggi Milano


Issue 109


The Arabian Review

BAHRAINME’s #1 economically free country - official

QATARReal Estate Report

EGYPTDemoralized Tourist Industry

OBJECTS OF DESIREWhy ‘passion investments’ are outperforming shares

Send your views to [email protected]

Would you like to be a PUBLISHED Photographer? If your photos of Bahrain and the region are good enough, they could be published in Gulf Insider/Areej/Bahrain Confidential magazines. Each month we publish the most impressive images we receive and give full credit to the photographer.

Images must be at least 1mb and can be e-mailed to [email protected] with the subject ‘PHOTO’.

Top ModelDear Editor, I’m a freelance model and would love to work with Gulf Insider. The Men’s Fashion pages in your February issue looked very classy and I think I would be a great fit. My experience as a freelance model spans over a decade and I’ve worked with top fashion brands, in the Middle East. Please do let me know how we can take this further; maybe I can email my vital stats and a few images soon or drop by your office.

Tom Cruise

A Leader in the Education SectorYour article on how Bahrain needs to invest more in education was good. I would like to give a pat on the back to Bahrain Polytechnic; these guys are doing so much to provide quality education and training in the Kingdom. They offer quite a diversified range of courses which allows students to choose what’s best for them. Bahrain Polytechnic has definitely been instrumental in enhancing the Kingdom’s labour market over the years.

Yasmin Al Haddad

Bahrain-Japan PartnershipDear Editor, this is with reference to the interview Gulf Insider did with the Japanese Ambassador. Since HE Shigeki Sumi’s term there have been great improvements in Bahrain-Japan ties. Bahrain too has been doing so much to promote their culture through art exhibitions, freedom to set up Japanese restaurants in the Kingdom and more. Long live the Bahrain- Japan ties!

Reader


Bahrain

NEW’S ROUND-UP

Designers bizarre bid to wrap Burj Khalifa in “cling film”... just for art

Currently the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa hardly needs help in getting noticed.

But a think tank has come up with another way for the 828m high structure to get noticed - by wrapping it in a cling-film like substance.

Proposed by Op-En, designers have suggested wrapping the building in a lightweight, reflective fabric in the name of art.

It would ‘complement the reflective facade’ of the building, which is the tallest free-standing structure in the world and has the highest number of stories in the world, Op-En said.

Ahmed Salman from OP-EN told The Huffington Post that it was still in the development stage and they were discussing the plans with interested parties.

The plans come after residents of the Burj Khalifa have been threatened with having to haul themselves up as many as 2,900 stairs after the developers warned it might cut off the lifts in a dispute over unpaid fees.

Emaar Properties, which runs the tower, says some residents have failed to pay their service charges - which can be as high as $25,000 a year - since 2012.

The building has a total of 2,909 stairs, meaning those on the upper floors would have to climb the bulk of those just to get home if the lifts were out of action.

One-bedroom flats fetch around $55,000 in rent a year, while service charges can add a further $25,000 to the total.

Service charges are a divisive issue in Dubai because many tenants are trapped at the centre of rows their landlords and developers.

MENA / M&A deals reach US$50.7bn (up 13%)

According to EY’s 2013 year-end MENA mergers and acquisitions (M&A) update, announced deal values in the region rose from US$44.8bn in 2012 to US$50.7bn in 2013, an increase of 13%. In 2013, 442 deals were announced as compared to 398 deals in 2012, an increase of 11%.

According to EY’s latest MENA Capital Confidence Barometer (CCB), which measures corporate confidence and boardroom trends at a MENA level, 75% of respondents expect local deal volumes to improve and 51% consider growth their primary focus. The highest percentage of confidence in the local economy is shown for indicators such as economic growth (70%) and credit availability (59%). In addition to growing confidence, 87% of executives now consider credit either stable or improving – the highest levels in the last two years.

The sectors most likely to make an acquisition in the next 12 months are consumer products, real estate, automotive, diversified industrial products and financial services. 75% of MENA CCB respondents stated that they would use cash to fund their future acquisitions, which indicates high levels of liquidity with corporates and family businesses.

Domestic deals lead in terms of number and value in 2013 - In terms of value, domestic deal values rose to US$22.5bn, followed closely by outbound deals with announced deal values of about US$18.5bn, 37% of total announced deal value in 2013. In terms of volume, domestic transactions outnumbered inbound and outbound deal activity, comprising 49% of total deals in 2013.

Anil Menon, MENA Head of M&A Advisory Services, EY, said: “MENA has historically been a net exporter of capital. 2013 was different in the sense that much of the acquisition capital was allocated within MENA.”

SWF activity in the region - Of the 442 deals announced in the MENA region in 2013, sovereign wealth funds (SWF) were involved in 19 deals with announced deal value of US$14.5bn – making SWFs the single largest buyer constituency in MENA contributing 29% of total deal value in 2013.

Food Security an immediate priority for GCC’ says UAE ministerGovernment ministries, top level officials and international industry leaders came together at the inaugural World Food Security Summit last month at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

Dr. Rashid Ahmed Mohammed Bin Fahad, UAE Minister of Water & Environment, delivered a keynote address on the state of food security in the UAE and the Middle East, as well as the challenges in securing the region’s future food supplies.

With imports accounting for between 80-90 per cent of GCC food consumption, food security, sustainability and safety are an immediate priority for the region, as well as a

continued...P12

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News Business

key challenge worldwide.With demand for food projected to

increase by 50 percent over the next 20 years and food prices on an uptrend, the issue of global food security will only become more challenging.

Investment in agriculture is a growing trend in the GCC, with several Arab nations currently investing in foreign land to expand their farming sectors. Saudi Arabia and the UAE combined already hold around 2.8 million hectares of overseas land in countries with agricultural sectors crippled by chronic under-investment - primarily

in greenfield sites in North Africa and South Asia.

Increasingly, the international investment strategy is diversifying and last year major UAE-based agriculture companies began making huge land holding investments in established agro-producers such as Croatia and Serbia.

The Food & Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations recently estimated that 1.3bn tonnes of food are lost or wasted globally every year, meaning roughly one third of the food produced in the world for human consumption every year is wasted.

Experts to attend GCC Financial Forum in Bahrain

Chief economists and experts from the US, GCC, the Levant and Europe have confirmed attendance and will speak at the upcoming Euromoney GCC Financial Forum taking place on the 4-5 March in Bahrain.

Markus Schomer, Chief Economist at PineBridge Investments, Alper Ince, Managing Director and Partner at Pacific Alternative Asset Management Company and Marwan Barakat, Group Chief Economist of Banque Audi will join Jarmo Kotilaine, Chief Economist of Bahrain’s Economic Development Board on the opening panel at the annual finance and investment gathering.

Dr. Kotilaine said: “The regional economy is changing rapidly, driven by favourable long term demographic trends and ongoing investment in infrastructure and diversification. The GCC economy is currently worth $1.5tn and this is set to reach $2tn by 2020.

“Part of this change will see an increased demand for sophisticated financial services in the region – whether that is businesses or governments looking to finance their investment or the increased number of people looking to invest their savings for the longer term.”

Bahrain’s diversified financial sector comprises around 400 financial institutions, including more than 100 banks with assets of $186bn, more than 2,800 licenced funds and 36 insurance firms.

Exparts Discuss UAE’s ChangesU n d e r s t a n d i n g

how people tick is still a competitive advantage, according to Matthew Froggatt, Chief Development Officer of TNS, one of the world’s largest custom market research organisations.

Opening the recent TNS Executive Forum panel, Froggatt told over 50 UAE-based delegates that content remains one of the most important ingredients in marketing communications. “In today’s digital and mobile world ‘Context is King’, especially in the Social context, digital enables inherent human behaviours, resulting in a new era for chief marketing officers.

He observed that using social channels, in the context of campaigns, we see more activity on same or less budgets. During the 2008 Olympics, Coca-Cola ran eight activities, and four years later in 2012, it ran more than 250 on the same budget.

MENA is a high potential market for Social Media especially Facebook, according to Eleni Kitra who also featured on the TNS Executive Forum 2013 expert panel.

Regional statistics show that there are 31m million people connecting on Facebook on a daily basis, of which 17 million are online via mobile, while monthly figures stack up at 59 million and 36 million on mobile, Kitra observed.

Facebook is at the centre of the shift to mobile. People are deeply engaged with Facebook, in fact, 90 per cent of smartphone owners read their News Feed at least once a day and 63 per cent read it several times a day or are constantly checking it.

*Source: IDC Always connected report, US march, 2013 (this data doesn’t reflect the MENA region but only the US)

Eleni Kitra, Agency Partner, Facebook with Matthew Froggatt, Chief Development Officer, TNS

...continued from P10

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News Business

IATA’s assessment of premium and economy travel

“2013 was another strong year for premium air traffic in the region. Growth on premium travel from Europe to the Middle East was 8.9%, and to Africa and Asia-Pacific it was 9.2% and 4.2% respectively. With business confidence indicators remaining at a high level, the prospects for 2014 look good for carriers in the Middle East,” said Hussein Dabbas, Regional Vice President – Middle East and North Africa, IATA

Key points: Premium international passenger travel expanded 4.2% in 2013 compared to 2012; This is a slowdown on 2012 (4.8%), but growth has picked-over recent months, with December up 5.5%; Growth in premium travel has been supported by a stronger business environment in H2 2013; Key markets like the North Atlantic improved – still growing slowly (2.3%), but up on 2012 (0.6%); But the largest share (21%) of the rise in total premium travel was within the Far East; This market expanded 7.2% in 2013, supported by regional trade growth in the second half of the year; Economy international travel expanded 3.5% in 2013, significantly down on 2012 (5.9%); The within Far East economy class market slowed most, with growth in 2013 (4.3%) half the pace of 2012; Although Asian economies made some gains in 2013, China slowed to rates not seen since 1990; The outlook for premium travel is broadly positive, but recent improvements in key drivers appear to be pausing; Business confidence has flattened and export orders growth has slowed, reflecting weakness in emerging markets; Nonetheless, performance of advanced economies should sustain premium travel, at least at current growth rates.

Private sector outdoes public sector for GCC national employee engagement.

Research reveals that despite the perceived attractiveness of working in the public sector and its considerable increase in wages and allowances, GCC nationals working in the private sector report significantly higher levels of engagement (45%) compared to their national counterparts in the public sector (37%).

The findings come from Aon Hewitt’s latest Qudurat study, a research initiative focused on understanding what drives and motivates talent in the region, with an emphasis on understanding national talent. The research includes participation from more than 100 public and private institutions including Gulf Air, Emirates NBD, Alghanim Industries and Dolphin Energy.

Along with Kuwait, Bahrain reports one of the highest engagement levels for expatriates in the GCC. Compared to 2010 results, expatriates continue to show consistently high levels of engagement. On the other hand, there is a decline of four percentage points in the engagement level of Bahrainis.

When asked whether they were proud to be part of their organization, 76% Bahrainis in the private sector agreed as compared to 68% of Bahrainis working in the public sector.

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News Business

Newly released Lawrence of Arabia to be auctioned 19th March

An eyewitness account of Lawrence of Arabia’s Arab revolt is among an archive of previously unseen papers about the expedition due to go under the hammer in London on 19th March.

The historical collection written by Lieutenant-Colonel Stewart Francis Newcombe is expected to fetch up to £30,000 and consists of three Army Field Service Correspondence Books issued to officers to record their activities, enemy positions and deployments.

Book specialist Matthew Haley, of Bonham’s in London where the stash is due to go under the hammer, said: ‘The Newcombe diaries have never been seen before and are a major addition to understanding both of Lawrence and of the relationship between the British and the local leaders of the Arab Revolt at this crucial period.’

They cover the guerrilla operations in 1917 to disable the strategically important Hejaz Railway and to tie up Ottoman troops in its defence.

The Ottoman Empire had entered the First World War in November 1914 on the German side in the hope of recapturing lost territories, including parts of modern-day Jordan and Saudi Arabia

The British, fearful of the impact on oil fields in the Middle East, fought alongside Arab nationalists, most notably Prince Faisal, who wanted to drive the Turks from his land in modern Saudi Arabia, specifically from the holy sites of Mecca and Medina.

Reflecting on those times in his autobiography Seven Pillars of Wisdom, Lawrence, who was an intelligence officer with the rank of captain at the time, wrote of his friend and colleague: ‘Newcombe had constant difficulties from his excess of zeal, and his habitual doing four times what any other Englishman would do, and ten times what the Arabs thought needful or wise.

Newcombe is like fire... he burns friend and enemy.’According to Lawrence, Newcombe wore out Prince Faisal’s best

camels with his constant to-ing and fro-ing. A letter written to Lawrence by Newcombe but never sent shows the closeness between the two men. It read: ‘I’ve always regretted just having missed you when you first went to Abdulla’s and again early in May: and it made a great difference to my shows not having you with Faisal to back me up and buck him up. We can’t disguise the fact that we are British & it’s no use trying to be unnaturally Arab when one can’t: and I’ve not succeeded.’

Bonham’s spokesman Andrew Currie said Abdullah was a ‘significant figure’ as he was among the leaders of the Arab revolt, and later became the first King of Jordan.

Mr Currie said the auction is expected to attract bids from international collectors of international appeal, especially in the Arab world.’

Qatar Airways has announced the launch of a new daily all premium Business Class service from its hub in Doha to London Heathrow.

The new service will be the first of its kind in the Middle East, commencing from 15 May 2014, with an Airbus A319 aircraft fitted with an all Business Class, single aisle, 2–2 seating configuration offering 40 seats.

Qatar Airways currently operates five daily flights to London Heathrow and the additional sixth all Business Class daily service marks the start of an exciting new era for travelers to and from the UK, who can experience complete comfort and privacy with the airline’s award-winning five-star hospitality.

The new additional flight will step up the frequency on the Doha – London Heathrow route from 35 to 42 weekly services.

Qatar Airways has been awarded the World’s Best Business Class Airline for 2013 and has also twice been the recipient of the Airline of the Year Award in 2011 and 2012 at the prestigious Skytrax Airline Awards. The airline has also been named as ‘Best Long-Haul Airline’ for the second year running and ‘Business Airline of the Year’ at the high profile UK Business Travel Awards 2014 recently held in London.

Qatar Airways’ new A319 Business Class seat will have one of the highest specifications for business class travel of any airline with wide seats that recline into fully flat beds and state of the art Oryx entertainment system (with more than 900 entertainment options – movies, television, video games and music).

Passengers can also remain in touch with their friends and loved ones on the ground through the SMS mobile texting GSM and GPRS service upon this aircraft, which is sure to reflect that of a VIP jet experience for those traveling between London and Doha.

As part of its aggressive expansion programme, Qatar Airways will launch routes to eight new destinations during 2014: Sharjah (UAE) from March 1; Dubai World Central (UAE) from March 1; Philadelphia (USA) from April 2; Larnaca (Cyprus) from April 29; Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (Turkey) from May 22; Edinburgh (Scotland) from May 28; Miami (USA) from June 10 and Dallas/Fort Worth (USA) from July 1.

Qatar Airways has announced a new daily from Doha to London Heathrow

AD Mar 2014 - Gulf Insider - IC Meetings - W 200 mm x H 265 mm


Advertorial

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is more than just a leading race track.

The uniqueness of the venue, state-of-the-art facilities and first-class service make it a favorite for major corporations and SMEs to conduct their events, such as

product launches, meetings, on-track client experiences and the like.

BIC is also an ideal destination for large public gatherings, such as concerts, conferences, conventions and various social activities.

Some of the biggest and most important conferences in the motorsport industry have taken place in Sakhir, such as the FIA Summit “Medicine in Motorsport” and the Motor Sport Business Forum.

In the past several months alone, BIC has co-hosted the Bahrain International Air Show, staged the Bahrain International Motor Show, put on all sorts of comic and animation conventions for youngsters, and hosted a variety of community and charity events, aside from the weekly – and sometimes daily – track activities.

Formula 1 2014 a Prime Opportunity for Business

The biggest event on the BIC calendar is right around the corner: the 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix taking place April 4-5-6.

It will be an extra-special occasion as this year marks the circuit’s 10th anniversary and landmark 10th hosting of the prestigious Formula One race.

In line with this, the Grand Prix will be taking place at night for the very first time, making for a fantastic spectacle

that has yet to be enjoyed in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

While the race weekend will be featuring the very best of international motorsport, the Grand Prix can also be a venue for businesses looking to make their mark.

It is a wonderful opportunity for companies to meet new clients and potential business partners, or simply expose their brand to a wider global audience.

Top local companies can make their first step to international prosperity with guest-hosting and other similar activities during the Grand Prix.

Corporate Packages

BIC offers a wide selection of tailor-made corporate packages that can cater to all such activities – whatever the needs of the company.

BIC is furnished with a host of luxurious hospitality suites that are perfect for holding both personal and professional occasions.

At the Grand Prix, the Paddock Club, Corporate Lounges and Oasis Lounges provide the ultimate in hospitality, character and style. Whether it’s enjoying five-star meals or simply watching all the racing action in comfort and luxury, these venues offer an eclectic mix of excitement, culture and business opportunities in an exclusive atmosphere.

The Paddock Club is located above the Formula One pit lane, giving guests a bird’s eye view of exciting pit-stops

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Meanwhile, situated atop the Main Grandstand, the Corporate Lounges offer some of the best seats in the circuit.

These lounges overlook the Formula One pit from a distance, as well as the circuit’s main straight and the start and finish lines. They are composed of beautifully furnished rooms that can accommodate up to 24 guests apiece, all in the most luxurious of settings.

BIC’s Oasis Complex, on the other hand, comprises 12 individual suites. They are located in the centre of the circuit, and it gives a unique vantage point of the inner part of the track. Each lounge is also furnished luxuriously, and it is perfect for medium-sized events of up to 80 people.

Corporate packages are still available for this year’s Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

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Banking Citi Bank

This bank has a longtradition of survivingchallenges and emergingstronger each time; now itis marking 25 years ofconsumer bankingservices in the Kingdom.

CELEBRATING OVER FOUR DECADES OF BANKING AND 25 YEARS OF CONSUMER BANKING IN BAHRAIN

Citibank Bahrain’s Head of Consumer Banking talks about how Citibank has become an industry leader in Bahrain within the last

25 years, and his plans to keep the bank at the forefront.

This year marks Citibank’s 25th Year of Consumer Banking in Bahrain. Not only was Citibank the first bank to open its doors in the Kingdom in 1969, but it has expanded exponentially since then, offering retail, wholesale, and Islamic banking services. It launched consumer banking

1969 1989 2001

Citi launched

its operations in Bahrain

Launched consumer banking services

Launched credit cards

Navneet Kampani

21Gulf Insider March 2014

Citi Bank Banking

services in 1989. As a highly recognized International bank, Citibank connects customers to a vast global network, providing an ideal partnership for Bahraini businesses, particularly those who wish to expand globally.

With the ever proliferating competition in Bahrain, Citibank has managed to establish itself and remain as a leader in consumer banking services. Citibank’s diverse business model and niche banking proposition, which relies heavily on its global network advantage, helps the bank maintain its edge.

Navneet Kampani, Head of Consumer Banking, has been with Citibank Bahrain for 9 years, and in this time, can attest to the bank’s unweilding commitment to Bahrain. Despite the market turmoil in the last several years, Navneet believes that, “the current year marks the stabilizing of the market and a revival of customer confidence in Bahrain. We’ve navigated well through the regional turbulence for the past few years and we’re especially grateful to our customers for the trust they showed in Citi and for standing by us throughout this period.” Throughout the course of their 25th year, Navneet has extensive plans to expand product offerings and services.

These products include Citibank Credit cards, which Navneet considers as ranked the top three in the market. Citibank is currently the only bank in Bahrain which offers redemption with 7

major airlines, with the Citi Premier Miles Card. “We are about to launch exciting credit card offerings this year that will further enhance the value proposition for our customers,” says Navneet.

Aside from credit cards, Citibank offers a host of services for high net worth individuals, including wealth

management, investment, insurance, and priority banking services, which are flexible and can be further tailored to meet each customer’s needs. These offerings will be further expanded this year as well.

“For instance, we offer our globetrotting clientele a choice to host their accounts in most international

cities they happen to frequently visit. This includes London, Jersey, Geneva, Dubai and Singapore in addition to Bahrain. Clients with off-shore banking requirements are assigned dedicated relationship managers to assist them with their transactions,” notes Navneet.

Citibank has also been a leader in terms of digital strategies. Digitization has drastically changed the way that businesses operate and interact with their customers and banking customers in particular expect to be able to utilize many key services online. Citibank has put considerable resources into its digital development to ensure that the online platforms are functional and cutting edge. Of note, Citibank has recently relaunched an enriched version of the website, and launched Citimobile, a mobile application providing a round the clock banking platform for the ultimate in convenience.

Citibank’s 25th year of consumer banking marks its deep commitment and belief in Bahrain. Indeed, Navneet notes that the region is critical to the global franchise.

Undoubtedly, one of the key attractions to operating in Bahrain is the availability of trained and talented local staff. Indeed, Bahrain has gone to great lengths to assist locals in their pursuit of careers in banking and finance. Citibank’s staff is comprised of roughly 50% Bahrainis, including many senior positions.

2003 2004 2005 2005 2006 2008 2011 2011 2012

Launched Citigold Priority Banking

Pioneers launching non-salary

transfer personal loans

Pioneers in interest

bearing current accounts

Pioneers in launching

the first airline cobranded credit

card with Emirates

Launched brokerage services

Pioneers in launching

the first black card Citibank Ultimate

Credit card in Bahrain

Launch of treasury

products for retail clients

Launch of the first

branch in The Lagoon – Amwaj

Islands

Pioneers in launching the first non-

affinity travel card Premier miles

Citibank has put considerable resources into its digital development to ensure that the online platforms are functional and cutting edge.


Banking Citi Bank

The quality of life found in Bahrain also makes it an attractive business base, as Navneet notes, “Companies worldwide want to cut down costs, be leaner and more efficient in their operations. The cost of living in Bahrain compares favorably to every other country in the region. Besides, Bahrain has a strong social environment that helps people grow.”

Navneet stresses that throughout the 25th year of consumer banking operations, Citibank Bahrain will continue to enhance and grow their offerings, and to be at the forefront of contributing to the community through social initiatives and training of locals. The relationship between Citibank and the Kingdom of Bahrain is one that is marked by longevity, commitment, and cooperation, and it will continue that way long into the future.

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• Access to select airport lounges across the world• Free round of Golf every month at Royal Golf Club

Citigold is a special offering for clients with a relationship balance of US$100,000 or more. Starting with a dedicated Relationship Manager, you get to experience a wide array of services, benefits, and privileges globally.

www.gulf-insider.com

The Arabian Review

Easy to navigate website that offers online access to the magazine and much, much more.

Access to valuable GCC news reported by the international media thanks to a free weekly email service for readers.

now also includes

See for yourself by visiting


Bahrain SME’s

The Government has done their stuff, Bahrain’s SME’s need to follow suit.

BAHRAIN’S SME’S; FLUTTERING IN THE BREEZE!

The ‘buzz’ last month, if you set aside the tedious political fire-fests of violent youths in recalcitrant mode, which the world no longer believes to

be “peaceful demonstrations,” is the manner in which Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry BCCI) approached the elections for a new Board of Directors which will determine the ‘company policy role’ for the next five years.

Along with the Government, the BCCI plays a vital role in Bahrain’s investment and business development terrain, as

well as preparing the ground for ‘green shoots investment’ by overseas investors wishing to dip a toe or even a foot, into the country’s eminently fertile, venture capital landscape. There is little doubt, that Bahrain remains the most attractive regional lifestyle choice location in the region, with a relatively liberal and tolerant system of government.

And as a glittering showcase to the elections, the BCCI and the Government have been at the heart of promoting the 2014 Gulf Industry Fair, which opened on 4 February with the new record number of 127 Exhibitors, including those from

15 other countries. It looks to becoming the paramount industry fair for the entire region, another feather in Bahrain’s gilded cap as a major financial centre and key regional hub.

But amid all the exultation and opening day Fair hype, Mahmood Al Mahmood MP fired a shot “across the bows” of the ship of state, as befits a salty sea Captain. He said that while the Government had ‘done its stuff’ to attract investment, but asked quite properly whether the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) were “ready to play their roles.”

The Government, Captain

By Nicholas Cortes


SME’s Bahrain

Mahmood contended, had provided modern infrastructure (ports, roads, telecommunication.) and an attractive package of incentives to interest potential investors. Through its focus on education, it was also possible for prospective investors and traders to draw on a highly educated and skilled workforce, for its prospective employees. It has done “everything it can, to bring markets to the doorstep” and allowed Bahraini businesses to “increase visibility and make profits.”

He lauded that according to “the leading authority on SME’s,” while they contributed 28% to GDP and 73% to employment, constituting more than 90% of total business in Bahrain and contributing to a thriving and innovative economy, the same figures “had been doing the rounds since 2010.”

This, he said, showed that the SME sector was “stagnating” or no-one in Government had noticed the changes given that a number of SME’s had been badly affected by ‘continuing troubles’ which had seen some businesses close.

Indeed, sometimes the casual observer can be excused for seeing Bahrain as like a Hollywood cowboy set, glistening and functional-looking at the front with sound and innovative marshals and lawmen calling the shots, but behind the timber facade, well … bleah! Overly bureaucratic practices, underlings who go missing, phones and enquiries that are not answered, requests for information that is never provided.

Captain Mahmood pointed out that this applied particularly in relation to financial incentives with entrepreneurs “around the world complaining about the lack of access to financing, especially designed for them.”

On top of that, there were indifferent attitudes and approaches to financial planning and book-keeping practices with most, “unable to provide (sought after) information on SME low interest loans, support for technological and administrative upgrade of operations, and the training of employees.”

And there is anecdotal evidence as well.

An expatriate soon to return to his own technologically advanced country, after working many years in Bahrain, told me that he saw lots of SME business opportunities for entrepreneurs to engage Bahrain. He called on the Dr Essam Fakhro and Nabeel Al-Mahmood, the CEO of the BCCI, who both gave him an excellent hearing and the name of officials who would contact him to provide material on incentives, financing options, and other pertinent business information.

That was in October 2013, and despite rigorous follow up on his part, there has been none from the BCCI.

He contacted four of the leading business houses in Bahrain, and asked if they could provide him with their business development plans for ‘areas

of engagement,’ so that he could search out possible interests.

That was in late November 2013. None has bothered to reply.

“Are these guys serious about looking for business investment and opportunities in Bahrain, or is it just more froth and talking big?” he asked plaintively.

Yes, there was interest ‘at home,’ and on Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar as well, he told me, “but why would I bother here, when the possible beneficiaries of exchange show absolutely no interest while professing to “be open for business?”

There are some promising economic numbers now being displayed on Bahrain’s dashboard, but let us not go overboard and flatteringly see it as though across-the-board growth is back. After the 2008 GFC, compounded by the 2011 events, it needs to be remembered

that progress and achievement are sometimes incremental, and need to be maintained by consistent efforts. Such constancy and consistency, is often a difficult row to hoe, but that is what investors expect. It is not all “coming up roses.”

Earlier this month, Arcapita, under Chapter 11 provisions, announced it was selling its highly successful Vartel International Energy Services, the world’s premier oil and minerals drill-bits business, with interests in 60 countries, to a Swedish company for $740 million. Vartel remains a highly profitable market leader with global reach, which would be an ace in any investment portfolio. The sale was presented as, “delivering successful exits to investors.” But it is good money is being liquidated, to

service debt.There are claims too, that

local funds are being salvaged to complete projects like Bahrain Bay and the Four Seasons hotel project, both of which will no doubt achieve long term profit. But it is tying up sovereign funds that could already be realizing returns.

If small business is big business, as former US President Woodrow Wilson claimed, the business of

business remains business, whether as a trader, or as an investor.

As Captain Mahmood so eloquently argues, some SME’s, and their supporting administration, need to ‘lift their game’ if Bahrain is to realize the full benefit of the great economic hand, that the Government has given them to play.

If the well organized and run 2014 Gulf Industry Fair is any indication, there are a number of SME’s willing to do their bit, even if their peak body is sometimes tardy in its “follow through.

Hopefully the forth-coming elections will foster a highly activist Board.”

The author is a former senior diplomat and political adviser with extensive international experience in strategic and parliamentary affairs, and is currently working in Bahrain.

Government had noticed the changes given that a number of SME’s had been badly affected by ‘continuing troubles’ which had seen some businesses close.


Bahrain 14 February Coalition

A Bahraini court recently handed down jail sentences to around 50 individuals, some of whom are based abroad, who it accused of involvement in terrorist activities as part of the “14 February Coalition”.

WHAT’S THE 14 FEBRUARY COALITION?

In the below article we look in detail at this “Coalition”, which is often discussed in the context of the Bahrain unrest, but which has been the cause of much confusion and

misinformation.

What is the 14 February Coalition?Several months ago, Citizens for

Bahrain published an article which attracted a lot of attention entitled “The 14 February Coalition does not exist”. The article contests that this “Coalition” is no more than a convenient brand name used by parts of the Bahraini opposition.

According to this article, this “Coalition” brand was exploited by mainstream opposition groups to present an image of a grassroots protest movement, which avoids the Islamist identity of groups like Al-Wefaq Islamic Society – led by leading clerics and Ayatollahs.

When Al-Wefaq and other opposition societies entered the National Dialogue process, the 14 February Coalition brand was able to represent the current of opinion within the protest movement which rejected Dialogue and advocated violent means to bring down the Monarchy.

However, in early 2013 the authorities second-guessed the tactic of hiding behind the “Coalition” brand; by taking action against the most militant elements of the opposition, laying charges against

50 figures, who they designated as being part of this 14 February “terrorist group”.

What have “Coalition” members been found guilty of?According to court documents:• The “terrorist group” devised plots to plant a bomb during the F1 race, blew up ATMs, carried out arson attacks on car showrooms and planted explosives

in several locations in Manama that resulted in the deaths of two Asian expatriates. Three members were behind a car bombing at the Bahrain Financial Harbour in April.• Eight members received firearms and explosives training to carry out attacks. Six defendants provided training in weapons and explosives, while nine

collected money to fund its activities. “One of the defendants also told prosecutors that he was in charge of a plan to bring weapons into Bahrain through Iraq.” Another assaulted three policemen.•“One of the goals of the terrorist organization was to establish a military wing in Bahrain connected to the Al Shirazi Movement. They trained Bahraini teenagers on using explosives abroad and then carried out terrorist acts”. Three defendants were convicted of conspiring with Iran to plot attacks and establishing ties with the Revolutionary Guard.• Some defendants were part of a terrorist group known as the Al Imam Army and were planning attacks on specific locations, including American targets.• “The cell was led by masterminds in Bahrain and London who frequently travelled to Iran, Iraq and Lebanon for financial and moral support.”

What has the “Coalition” claimed responsibility for?

The “Coalition” on its Facebook page claimed responsibility for a number of attacks and acts of violence; including an attack with a car bomb on Bahrain’s Financial Harbour.

They have encouraged supporters to engage in rioting and violence, posting images of activists burning tyres, throwing Molotovs and attacking police. The organization publishes threats of

We see this dialogue as a media tool which the regime aims to reduce the severity of popular and international pressures.”


14 February Coalition Bahrain

violence; for example warning Grand Prix participants of the “consequences” of their actions if the Formula One went ahead; and threatening businesses and schools that their “safety couldn’t be guaranteed” if they opened on protest days.

What sentences have the “Coalition” members received?

Sixteen men were jailed for 15 years each. The High Criminal Court convicted 34 other people, including a woman, of joining the known terror cell. Four were jailed for 10 years each, while the others were sentenced to five years each.

When did the “Coalition” first appear?

At the time of the 14 February protests in Bahrain a number of names started appearing for various relatively unknown groups associated with the protest movement, such as February 14 Youth; February 14 Clerics; February 14 Media Center; February 14 Martyrs; Youth of Martyrs Square; and 14 February Youth Movement.

The “Coalition Youth of 14 Feb Revolution” first appeared on the Bahrain Online forum whose Facebook page started in April 2011. One of these groups, calling itself the February 14

Youth, was prominent in promoting the 14 February demonstrations.

However, by mid-2011 the “14 February Coalition” was the main brand being used when publishing schedules for protests; although other names like the “February 14 Movement” also appear.

What political principles does the “Coalition” stand for?

The Coalition rejects any kind of dialogue with the Bahraini authorities: “There is no way for us to accept a non-balanced dialogue that lacks all guarantees, we see this dialogue as a media tool which the regime aims to reduce the severity of popular and international pressures.”

While many parts of the mainstream opposition call for reform or an elected government “Coalition” propaganda calls for the violent bringing-down of the Monarchy: “Overthrowing the Al-Khalifa regime, which has lost its legitimacy, and bringing its heads and officials to trial, for the crimes against humanity that they have committed against our people.”

Who leads the “Coalition”?The “Coalition” gives no names for its

leadership, and nearly three years after the “Coalition” appeared, few Bahrainis

could point to any prominent figures within with this group. However, the “Coalition” is closely associated with a number of opposition societies, including the Haq Movement, the Islamic Action Society, Wafa Islamic Movement and the Bahrain Freedom Movement.

According to the charges made against the “Coalition”, several prominent opposition figures based overseas, including Saeed Shehabi, Ali Mushaima, Abdulraouf Al Shayeb and Ayatollah Hadi Al Modarasi; many of whom live in London; are the “masterminds” behind many of the acts of terrorism in Bahrain.

Some of these London-based figures, like Saeed al-Shehabi, have long been associated with other groups like the Bahrain Freedom Movement – formerly the Bahrain Islamic Revolutionary Front – adding weight to the view that the “14 February Coalition” is a convenient label, rather than a coherent entity.

Many of these individuals, like Hadi al-Modarresi have well-documented links with Iran. An investigation by the Evening Standard provided documents showing Iranian payments to Saeed Shehabi and the Bahrain Freedom Movement.

This article is by Citizens for Bahrain. For more information visit www.citizensforbahrain.com


Business Learning a Lesson

LEARNING A LESSON FROM WAITROSE BAHRAIN

Waitrose’s withdrawal from Bahrain was, what we call in the marketing business “a bit of a cock-up”. It shouldn’t have happened and the fact

that it did can only mean that someone, somewhere got more than a few things wrong. The list of suspects includes Waitrose themselves, who, as part of the amazing John Lewis Partnership are one of the world’s most successful retailers with a proven supermarket formula and a well-earned reputation for getting things right. The franchisee Fine Fare Foods who already operate successful Waitrose franchises in Dubai and their local Bahraini subsidiary Supa Saver, to whom Fine Fare handed over the running of the Bahrain operation. I know who my money is on!

To get a better understanding of what went on here you have to consider what the Waitrose brand actually is. Waitrose is an up-market supermarket brand with a special affinity for food. There is only one other really successful “food specialist” supermarket group in the world that I know of and that’s the Belgian Delhaize Group, the fifth biggest supermarket group in the world and a past client of mine. You don’t shop at Waitrose for high-profile brands. You certainly don’t go there to shop with food-stamps. Waitrose shoppers go there for great quality products offering good

“You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til its gone” or so Joni Mitchell told those of us who were around back in 1970 , but these days, like many other shoppers on Bahrain, I’m staring into the gaps on my kitchen-cupboard shelves and realising just how much Waitrose gave the island. So, what went wrong?


Learning a Lesson Business

Maybe Waitrose should have exerted more control on the franchisee in this case. I just hope that it’s a lesson learned.

value, beautiful light airy stores and knowledgeable and very courteous and friendly staff. Waitrose has pulled off what every supermarket group dreams of by establishing a product brand that’s an equal to their store brand. That’s why their products appear on the shelves of supermarkets that don’t have Waitrose over the door in 45 countries. Waitrose shoppers love Waitrose branded products and with good cause.

Any ex-pat Waitrose shopper in Bahrain will have noticed straight away that the inventory was not what they are used to. Own label products weren’t prominent, continuity was sketchy to say the least and most of the offer was the same-old, same-old that every mass-market supermarket in town was offering at lower prices. Why would you shop there? Nor, as far as I could see was there any attempt to promote the product brand to the marketplace, so if you weren’t already a Waitrose shopper you wouldn’t know why you should give them a try.

Of course, other factors contributed to the demise of the brand. Like the rose-bespectacled naivety that drove Supa Save, in the face of established competitors like AlOsra (who have it sorted) Carefour, Geant and Lu-Lu to open six stores in a market of 1.2m people, at least half of whom aren’t economically active, but basically I have to conclude that the local franchisee took a beautiful thing and killed it.

This is disappointing, but maybe understandable. These are primitive markets, with primitive businesses. There’s a lot of talk about brands and branding, but basically nobody here “gets it”. (AlShaya and a few others being the exceptions that prove the rule). This factor might point to some culpability on Waitrose’s part. Having myself just created a franchise model for a Saudi-owned business I know that in these developing markets a model designed to work with educated, knowledgeable and experienced Western franchisee leaves far too much leeway to have any hope of success. In this part of the world, if your plug-and-play franchise instructions have any gaps, be sure you’ll fall into them. Maybe Waitrose should have exerted more control on the franchisee in this case. I just hope that it’s a lesson learned.

The author of this article, Phil Darby is a consultant business, brand and marketing strategist now living in Bahrain. You will discover more about his work at www.thefulleffect.com


Interview EY

What does your new position with EY actually involve?

EY Training Center (EYTC) provides top quality training designed to raise the skill levels

of our clients. In today’s challenging and integrated global world, companies need to win the race for knowledge to stay competitive.

I currently hold a dual role at EYTC. As leader of the Center in Bahrain, my role is to manage the local office, identify

training needs and develop products which address them. I also have a regional role. In MENA, my job is to help integrate the processes, people and products of the EY Training service line and direct them towards common objectives.

Our primary goal at EYTC is to combine experience, materials and expertise from across the EY network to produce innovative solutions which add exceptional value to our clients.

My role involves putting together and implementing these solutions. It is hugely exciting and rewarding to see measurable gains in the performance of the people and companies that we train.

Tell us about the challenges you face in this new role?

I prefer to see challenges as opportunities. My position offers the chance to explore the differences in culture and attitudes to training in the

GulfInsider sits down with the new Director of EY Bahrain’s Training Centre to discuss the goals and plans he has in his new position.

INTERVIEW WITH ASHIM KUMAR


EY Interview

countries within the MENA region. I always take the time to learn as much as possible about each market before formulating a strategy. This way we can build training solutions which are tailored and relevant and most importantly, that really work.

Another opportunity I relish is the chance to learn about how much expertise exists within EY globally. I am continually impressed by the depth of skills and experience available within our organization. I am at the beginning of my journey of discovery about the global intellectual powerhouse that is EY.

Explain the types of training programs EY is currently offering, and are there any new programs you plan to introduce?

EYTC offers a range of courses across the world; we deliver financial, non-financial, technical and soft skills, professional and vocational training. We have the resources and expertise in our network to meet the skills and qualification needs of a wide range of clients, incorporating both individuals and businesses.

For example, our professional programs include the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) for whom we are a Platinum provider, the American Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and the Professional Risk manager (PRM) qualifications.

We run many short technical courses, for example, our programs in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are very well attended. Additionally, our experts deliver a diverse range of soft skills courses such as ‘ Developing High Performance Leaders’. As well as courses open to the market as a whole, we develop tailored training solutions which address a specific skill gap as identified in consultation with our client.

Our full list of training courses is in the 2013-14 EY Training Planner which can be found at our website: http://www.eytrainingcenter.com/

As for new programs, EYTC prides itself on the ability to evolve with the markets we serve. We live and work in a dynamic environment and the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses

change regularly. For this reason, we listen carefully to our clients; only when we fully understand their ambitions do we develop solutions to help them get there.Our programs are continually fine-tuned and new ones are developed to ensure that they remain up-to-date and effective.

What is it that makes EY training, in your own words, “the supplier of choice in Bahrain and the region”?

EY has access to a global repository of exceptional talent from which we can source the right combination of skills for each assignment. We are also the professional services firm with the longest history in the region. With over 90 years of experience in the Middle East, we truly understand the markets we operate in.

EY has built an unparalleled level of trust and confidence; our client partners know that we are committed to producing exceptional results and will

always endeavor to provide the highest possible standards of service.

How do you believe your past experience will assist you in your new role?

I have over 20 years of international experience in the professional training sector; as one would expect, the industry has changed considerably in this time.

One of the biggest examples of this is the growth in online learning. When computer-based training was introduced as a delivery platform, no one thought it would replace face-to-face teaching. Looking at the industry 15 years on, millions of individuals and organizations benefit from some form of online content delivery.

My experience has taught me that

each context is different, client needs evolve and new ways of working are always coming along. I have learned that if we are going to develop sustainable learning solutions, we need to remain open minded and flexible. We need to constantly push back boundaries; to be imaginative, and produce innovative solutions to challenges both old and new.

Which famous person do you most admire, and why?

Just a few of the people that I admire include Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Alexander the Great, Bruce Lee and Winston Churchill. Although they are all very different, they have a lot in common; each of them had an unshakeable belief in their vision which they pursued with voracious energy. They overcame challenges through sheer persistence, and in doing so, they served as examples for us all to emulate.

How do you relax?I am a very sociable person, which

should come as no surprise as my job requires me to work with people, so I spend as much time as possible with friends.

I love long, meandering conversations over dinner and enjoy watching movies; but am not a complete couch potato, I try to work out at the gym at least three times a week.

My real passion however, is the martial arts. I have experience in traditional Ju Jitsu, Krav Maga and Scandinavian Defendo.

I relish the challenge of pushing my body and mind to new levels and, pitting myself against a determined opponent.

We listen carefully to our clients; only when we fully understand their ambitions do we develop solutions to help them get there.


Business Bahrain & India

Bahrain’s ties with India received a boost when King Hamad made his first visit to India last month at the invitation of

Indian President Pranab Mukherjee.

Gulf Insider reviews what was discussed, and achieved…

NEW ERA OF BAHRAIN-INDIABILATERAL TIESI

ndia and Bahrain have close and friendly relations. Over 350,000 Indian nationals work here, and Bahrain is an important trading partner for India, with non-oil bilateral

trade in 2012-13 exceeding $1.3 billion.The three-day visit, from 19-21

February, explored the various aspects of the economic, political, and cultural bilateral relations between the two

countries as well as the latest regional and international developments of mutual interest.

The King held talks with Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, during which he commended the contribution of Indian expatriates to Bahrain’s progress and development. He stressed the importance of boosting trade and investments, exchanging

expertise and avoiding double taxation. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing an India-Bahrain High Joint Commission was also signed.

At the delegate level, Bahraini ministers held high-level talks with their Indian counterparts to discuss such issues as security, oil, and the threat of piracy. They discussed their infrastructure development plans, with


Bahrain & India Business

Bahraini and Indian businessmen signed a string of industrial, trade and financial agreements during the Bahrain-India Business Forum in New Delhi.

Important agreements signed

MoU on cooperation between the Diplomatic Academy of Bahrain, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bahrain and the Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India, to strengthen cooperation through exchange of information, training of diplomats and joint research in mutually agreed areas

MOU between Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

Memorandum of understanding (MoU) between EDB and NASSCOM to further the development of ICT industries, including e-commerce and e-governance, in both countries

MoU between Bahrain Development Bank and the Small Industries Development Bank of India for partnering for enhancement of financial and non-financial services for SMEs in Bahrain

MoU between Tamkeen and the Indian National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC) to exchange learning and best-practices in training, entrepreneurship and skills development

MoU between Bahrain University and Jawaharlal Nehru University

MoU between National Authority for Qualifications and Quality Assurance of Education and Training in Bahrain and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in India

MoU between the Bahrain Business Women’s Society and Business Professional Women India

India inviting Bahrain to invest in the power, ports, highways, supply chain, logistics and warehousing areas in India. In terms of trade, both sides reiterated their commitment to finalising the Bahrain-India Free Trade Agreement.

The Bahrain delegation of more than 130 businessmen and women, led by Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro, made a fresh push for investment from India, citing Bahrain’s economic and social openness. Dr. Fakhro pointed out that it is now easier than ever to set up a business in Bahrain, with the government doing everything possible to ensure quick and smooth registration of new permits. “The government has invested heavily in a new web-based registration system which will permit seamless processing of applications linking all aspects of licensing in a single application, making it possible to achieve fast registration times,” he said. He added that Bahrain allows 100 per cent foreign ownership in virtually all sectors, and is “uniquely positioned as the natural gateway to the $1.5 trillion GCC economy.”

Bahraini and Indian businessmen signed a string of industrial, trade and financial agreements during the Bahrain-India Business Forum in New Delhi, and again at a similar forum in Mumbai. Among these were agreements to jointly develop housing and real estate projects in Bahrain and India, the setting up of a 1,000-acre banana plantation, and an agreement to establish a $255 million data centre in Bahrain, the first

of its size in the Middle East, which will employ more than 500 professionals in the IT sector.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), one of India’s leading business and policy-making bodies, has chosen Bahrain for its first GCC office. It will establish an office in Manama to increase its presence in the region, and

will work closely with the EDB to bring business delegations to each country and highlight investment opportunities.

Overall the visit is estimated to have brought $450 million dollars of new investment into Bahrain. It will also see an increased exchange of high-level bilateral visits and greater cooperation in the areas of security and stability.

Advertorial

Kempinski GM Puneet Singh speaks to Gulf Insider about its new “Grooming Bahraini Hospitality Talent” programme.

KEMPINSKI FOSTERS BAHRAINI TALENT

Puneet Singh

The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre is undertaking a unique initiative to the region that aims to recruit, train and place large numbers of

young locals for a career in the luxury

hospitality sector. At the time of our meeting, Mr. Singh had shortlisted 17 young Bahrainis to become the first batch of intakes for the programme.

He had hoped for 25, but the recruitment drive proved somewhat difficult. Some applicants, of course, simply did not have the right attitude. But, others found it challenging to convince their parents; “sadly for some in Bahrain

there is still a cultural taboo around the hospitality industry due to the often long hours staff are expected to work, and also for some because alcohol is served

Puneet believes a career in hospitality can be a rewarding option for young Bahrainis. Indeed, he has noticed that Bahrainis who have seriously pursued this career have risen quickly.



Advertorial

KEMPINSKI FOSTERS BAHRAINI TALENT

on the premises” he explains. Because of this Mr. Singh schedules meetings with every candidate’s family as part of the rigorous interview process so he may address any such concerns and reassure family members of the value of the opportunity being offered.

I study the new intake. It’s just day 2 of their training and they all look happy as Gulf Insider’s photographer lines them up for a group photo. It is worth noting that not a single one of the 17 is female. I mention this to Puneet, who replies that he hopes to change this with future intakes.

Puneet Singh is keen to emphasise that this is not merely a PR exercise; “the hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of Bahrain’s economy today and significant new growth is expected in this sector over the coming 24 to 36 months as Bahrain has five new five-star hotels on the way”. Puneet believes a career in hospitality can be a rewarding option for young Bahrainis. Indeed, he has noticed that Bahrainis who have seriously pursued this career have risen quickly up the ranks with some relocating to hotels in Europe where they are actively sought out by VVIP Bahraini guests at these properties.

Tamkeen has offered its support to the programme, funding all the recruitment and training costs, and subsidising a percentage of basic salaries for a period of one year. The unique recruitment drive, designed to attract the best-fit candidates, is the input of TWI (Third Wave International), a Bahrain-based training company that is affiliated with William Angliss, Australia’s top hospitality institute.

And what will the 17 new recruits receive? The answer is a great deal, not least a four-month hands-on intensive training at the Kempinski in all departments. On graduating they will be awarded a Hospitality Training Certificate from William Angliss. Subject to proving themselves they will be offered a full-time job and the best-performing candidates will have the chance to work in Kempinski properties overseas.

Puneet believes this programme will not only open new opportunities for the trainees but develop their personalities and bring out their passions, and hopes that over time as word spreads, existing perceptions will change and more Bahrainis will enter the hospitality industry. He also hopes that other hotels may follow with similar initiatives, which he believes are much needed at this time, particularly as the government has stated that Bahrainis must position themselves as the employees of choice to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.

To find out more about the “Grooming Bahraini Hospitality Talent” programe, contact The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre .

The hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of Bahrain’s economy today and significant new growth is expected in this sector over the coming 24 to 36 months.

The new intake with officials from Kempinski and TWI


Advertorial

MENATELECOM LAUNCHES THE NATIONWIDE 4G LTE NETWORK

Menatelecom’s nationwide roll-out of its 4G LTE services has marked the beginning of a new era in the Kingdom of Bahrain, one where homes

and businesses will experience the very latest high-speed internet services available.

Mr. Abdul Razak Jawahery, Chairman of Menatelecom, commented on the new launch, “We are proud of Menatelecom’s achievements; our 4G LTE is a nationwide network that provides outstanding improvements to the performance of internet communications throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain. Our loyal customers have come to trust our ability to deliver a first-rate internet service and we have raised the bar with our offerings in this very latest technology. This is a groundbreaking achievement and we are pleased to bring one of the most advanced LTE networks in the world to our country.”

Menatelecom has become a fast growing internet provider and has broken new ground with many unique services since the launch of its WiMAX services in 2008. The company has acquired the cutting-edge 4G LTE technology to grant its customers an unparalleled internet experience with high speeds and exceptional quality at great value for money.

The new Menatelecom 4G LTE service offers many options for the home, business, and on-the-go customers. High-speed packages and various devices have been tailored to

suit every customer’s need. Further, customers are encouraged to test the service for themselves and are invited to visit any Menatelecom branch where our customer care agents will be happy to demonstrate the abilities and the superb performance of 4G LTE.

Businesses Take Advantage of 4G LTE Network

The new service will allow businesses to connect to the internet or to other offices using 4G LTE with unrivaled speed, secured high quality performance and a stable connection. This is coupled with Menatelecom’s rapid deployment to any location in the Kingdom owing to its nationwide coverage.

Menatelecom caters to all forms of business requirements, from secure VPN links for banks, to remote surveillance systems, CCTV solutions and PBX systems in addition to a full array of telecommunications solutions for many of Bahrain’s diverse business sectors.

Menatelecom’s network comes with multiple redundancies using 4G LTE, Fiber, WiMAX and microwave solutions backed by resilient international connectivity for guaranteed business connectivity.

Menatelecom’s 4G LTE Network also has the ability to act as a Data backup solution to support the requirements of business customers with dedicated lines. MenaBusiness solutions include dedicated high-speed internet service with unlimited downloads and speeds up to 1Gb in addition to VPN solutions;

Carrier Pre-Select Service (CPS); International Private Leased Circuit (IPLC); International Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) and Data Centre Hosting to name a few of the solutions offered.

Menatelecom has expanded its branches to 8 throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain and are conveniently located at the GOSI Complex, Muharraq, Country Mall - Budaiya, Hamad Town, Isa Town Mall, Bu Kuwara Riffa, KFH Automall in Sitra and our latest branch in Enma Mall.

For further information please visit www.menatelecom.com or call 07770 and our customer care agents will be more than happy to assist you. Alternatively, business customers may call our Business contact Centre on 77707771.

Highlights of a few main packages

Home & MyFi LTE packages starting from BD13 Every home package includes a Free Telephone line with a 77xxxxxx number and Free monthly minutes

Return your old WiMAX device and get a discount on any LTE device (applicable to WiMAX 4Mb packages and above) Business packages starting at BD30

international standards, local hospitality

Weddings are very special occasions, and we at Al Manzil Hotel Bahrain want to help you makeyour day as uncomplicated and memorable as possible.

We view meetings as opportunities. To connect. To generate value. At Al Manzil Hotel Bahrain, We know meetings are an important part of your business, and we want to help you make the most of your investment.

Al Manzil Outdoor Catering is a most popular choice for event’s, parties and get-together’s. Always dependable and unquestionably delicious, We are specialized in a wide range of cuisine to cater our multi-cultural clientele.

www.facebook.com/almanzilhotel www.twitter.com/almanzilhotel www.instagram.com/almanzilhotel

AL MANZIL HOTELBAHRAIN

+973 17 813 [email protected] | www.almanzilhotelbh.com


Feature Australian meat

The production of good quality meat begins back on the farms in Australia, where the animals are raised, and where Gulf Insider went to investigate.

WHAT MAKES AUSTRALIAN MEAT SO GOOD?

Lachie Hart, CEO of Kerwee Feedlot in Queensland, Australia, grew up on this farm and takes enormous pride in his work. It seems as if every romantic notion

about how livestock should be raised is followed here, with the cattle being cared for in large open spaces. A special system designed at Kerwee carefully balances the amount of wind and shade the cattle receive in order to keep them relaxed. Their diet is, of course, planned to provide complete nourishment. Angus cattle are grainfed for a shorter duration than Wagyu, and information about each animal’s diet, breed, age, etc. can be confirmed from its tag.

From here we followed the cattle on

the next leg of their journey to Stanbroke abbatoir, one of the largest such facilities in the region. Visitors were kitted out in the same sanitised protective helmets, boots, gloves and coats as the employees, stepped through a pool of sanitised water, and were guided through the process in reverse. We observed the packing, portioning, boning, gutting, skinning, and last, slaughtering.

Slaughter is bound to be a gruesome business, and this was my first ever visit to such a place. I am glad to report that in all honesty it was carried out not just efficiently, but as humanely as possible. In fact the process follows recommendations by Temple Grandin, one of the leading names in animal

comfort and animal health, who for example suggested that cattle be led to the abbatoir in curved lines to reduce stress. I wonder if they go to such troubles in the Middle East?

Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) is a producer-owned company that provides marketing and research and development services for the Australian cattle, sheep and goat industries and has maintained an office in the Middle East region for 45 years now, keeping close contact with its consumer base. It works collaboratively with key government officials to ensure that stringent standards are met, including Islamic requirements for the production of meat.

Meat and Livestock Australia’s MENA


Australian meat Feature

Australia exports the majority of the red meat it produces, and much of it makes its way to the Middle East.

market specialist Ben Larkin spoke a great deal about the integrity of the Halal process used across the Australian red meat industry, and after a tour of Stanbroke, a Saudi journalist travelling in our group who had visited slaughter houses in his own country volunteered that in his opinion and based on what he had seen, they take the procedure more seriously than many slaughterhouses even in the Middle East. The cattle are stunned before they have their throats slit, and if, for some reason, the stunning does not work, the animal is led away to a different area and not used for Halal meat. The procedure is always carried out by a Muslim recommended by the local mosque who offers the necessary prayers for each of the hundreds of cattle

he slaughters in a day.We observed similar high standards in

the sheep meat industry. During a visit to Fletcher International, one of the largest producers of lamb meat industry in the region, we saw sheep grazing in idyllic pastures. Fletcher’s abbatoir follows the same impeccable sanitation protocol and strict observance of Halal requirements. Graham Lyon, of Fletcher’s MENA Export Marketing department, informed us that the abattoir was even built with the position of the Ka’aba in mind.

The end product is meat of an exceptional quality that is much sought after. Victor Churchills, the famous Sydney butcher that supplies the city’s Michelin starred chefs, regularly attracts clients who are happy to fork over more

than $200 per kilogram for the best grainfed aged Wagyu beef.

Australia exports the majority of the red meat it produces, and much of it makes its way to the Middle East. Demand for Australian meat here has skyrocketed, up by around 35 percent from last year, a total of approximately 161,000 tonnes. Demand from China has increased an astonishing 40 times in the last three years. The gross value of the Australian sheep meat industry is estimated at $2.3 billion and beef is $7.4 billion, making Australia the world’s largest exporter of sheep and cattle today.

So, in answer to the question of what makes Australian meat so good, it would be fair to answer that it’s careful attention to detail.


Feature Naval Exercise

Once a year, the British Royal Navy, the US navy, and the Bahrain Royal Navy, engage in a joint naval exercise. This time, they took Gulf Insider along for the adventure.

OPERATION FALCON DEFENDER

Out in the open sea, somewhere between Iran and Bahrain, the three navies lock in a tense and elaborate game of cat and mouse. On the one

hand are British, Bahraini and American vessels. On the other are US Navy small super-fast gunboats, posing as aggressors. Their objective is to get as close as possible to one of the larger ships, carefully concealing their hostile intentions until the last possible minute.

I watched these war games proceed from my vantage point beside the Captain of the RFA Diligence. This ship, known as the “Swiss Army Knife of the naval service”, is a part of the auxiliary fleet that serves the British Royal Navy, and is responsible for maintaining the

ships when they’re out at sea and carrying supplies to them. Today, it is to be the target ship.

The other ships, including British Royal Navy frigate HMS Westminster, the USS Carney, the USS Chinook, and the Bahrani ship RBNS Al Fateh, are charged with the responsibility of protecting it. They are simulating the situation that sometimes arises when boats do not heed the warnings issued and get too close to a navy ship, forcing the crew to be on their guard as they determine the nature of the approaching craft’s intentions. Two US Black Hawk helicopters have also joined the exercise.

My day had started before dawn at Salman Naval Base to board one of the US Navy Riverines, a high speed

gunboat, which would carry me to the venue for the naval exercise. Fitted out with four heavy-duty machine guns, it was manned by eagle-eyed crew that were on their guard from the moment the vessel started moving. They keep up this extreme vigilance even in Bahraini waters, and I was impressed by their level of dedication and professionalism.

It was a flat-bottomed boat, and very fast, reaching speeds of up to 45 knots. For this reason, it could get quite wet on board, so people usually prefer to travel in the dry, more comfortable compartment below deck. We were accompanied by observers from the UAE and Saudi Arabian navies who promptly retreated to this compartment, but I, enchanted by the novelty of it all, stayed on top to


Naval Exercise Feature

watch the sun rise over a perfectly beautiful blue morning.When we arrived two hours later, I was transferred to one of

the British ships, where I sat in on a briefing of all the senior officers of the various ships. The rules of engagement for the day were decided upon, and then I was sent off to watch. It was quite exciting, really. I could listen in on the radio messages that were being exchanged as one scenario after another unfolded. The aggressor ships played games like pretending that they couldn’t stop when they were asked to, or that they had engine trouble.

The exercise was meant to be as realistic as possible, without firing any live rounds.

The overall purpose of this exercise is to keep the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf waters safe for international shipping and preventing waterborne IED (improvised explosive device) attacks. When different navies have to cooperate on such a task, they find that the biggest challenges are the differences in operating procedures. Such an exercise gives them an opportunity to practice working around these challenges, since in a real life situation there would be no room for error.

At the end of the day the commanding officers gathered once more on board the Diligence for a debrief. The exercise was determined to have gone very well-lessons had been learnt, and various ideas were suggested for further improvements.

Night fell as I returned to Bahrain on one of the Riverines. This time it was cold, dark, and the sea was rough, so I descended into the hold where I witnessed a highly trained crew member engaged in viewing a state of the art night vision TV screen, scanning the sea and sky for anything that could be deemed to be a threat. Ever so often he would pause over something he’d seen, process it, and deciding it posed no threat move on. I watched, with amazement, someone sipping a hot drink on board a distant ship.

Overall I was very impressed with all that I had seen during the day. The dedication of the navy personnel to their individual tasks, the advanced technology they work with, and the powerful ships themselves make these entities a serious force to reckon with.

They keep up this extreme vigilance even in Bahraini waters, and I was impressed by their level of dedication and professionalism.


Feature Arab Revolution

By Ramzy Baroud

ASKING THE WRONG QUESTIONS: DID ARAB REVOLUTIONS FAIL?

Challenging the falsehoods and simplifications that surrounded the so-called Arab Spring from the very start doesn’t necessarily mean that one is in doubt of the

very notion that genuine revolutions have indeed gripped various Arab countries for nearly three years.

In fact, the revolutionary influx is still underway, and it will take many years before the achievements of these popular mobilizations be truly felt. One can understand the frustration and deep sense of disappointment resulting from the state of chaos in Libya, the political wrangling in Yemen and Tunisia, the brutal civil war in Syria, and of course, the collective heartbreak felt throughout the Arab world following the bloody events in Egypt.

Many lapses of judgment were made early on, starting with the lumping together of all Arab countries into one category – discussed as singular news or academic topics. It was most convenient for a newspaper to ask such a question as “who’s next?” when Libya’s Muammar al-Gaddafi was so pitilessly murdered by NATO-supported rebels. It is equally convenient for academicians to keep contending with why the Egyptian army initially took the side of the January 25 revolution, the Syrian army sided with the ruling party, and while the Yemeni army descended into deep divisions.

In the rush to emphasize one’s intellectual authority, if not ownership over the narrative and for political reasons as well, the Arabs were dissected in every possible way, stretched in every possible direction, and reduced in ways so useful, yet so flawed, so that quick answers could be obtained.

While answers were readily available of why the Arabs revolted, time has proven much of the early discourses inane and misleading. The direction of these revolutions has headed in sharply different ways. This a testament to the uniqueness of circumstances, historical and otherwise, which surround each country – as opposed to the wholesale representation offered by the media. It is an argument I made soon after Tunisian president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali fled the country. My argument was a response to the euphoria of expectations made by media ‘experts’ and journalists who clearly had little understanding, or dare I say, respect of history or knowledge about the complex realities in which each Arab country is situated. Many went on to write books, while others inspired audiences around the world with fiery speeches about collective Arab Islamic awakenings even before we conjured up basic ideas of what was truly manifesting before our own eyes. These manifestations were at times very violent and involved many players, from Qatar to China, and groups so varied in roots, ideology and sources of funds.

But as the plot thickened, much of the distorted accounts of ‘twitter revolutions’ and such, grew less relevant and eventually faded away. Take the case of Libya as an example. Those with simple answers, reflecting truly modest understanding of Arab societies, could hardly understand the complex nature of Libya’s tribal society, the socioeconomics governing relations between East and West, urban areas with desert towns, and Libya’s African context and relationships.

When NATO used the Libyan uprising,

Arab revolutions have not failed, but they have not succeeded either. They have simply challenged the status quo like never before.


Arab Revolution Feature

mostly in the eastern parts of the country, to achieve its own political objectives, it converted a regional uprising into an all-out war that left the country in a status comparable to that of a failed state. Almost immediately after NATO declared the Libyan revolution victorious, the excitement over the Libyan component of the ‘Arab Spring’ became less visible, and eventually completely dissipated. Since then Libya has hardly followed a path of democracy and reforms. In fact, the harms that resulted from the Libyan crisis, such as the massive influx of weapons and refugees to other African countries, destabilized the entire country of Mali.

As a result, Mali too went through its own upheaval, military coup, civil war and finally a French-led war in the course of two years. Unfortunately, these issues are hardly discussed within the Libyan context since Mali is not Arab, thus such inconvenient stories do no service to the simplified ‘Arab Spring’ discourse.

The consequences of the Libyan fiasco will continue to reverberate for many years to come. But since simple arguments cannot cope with intricate narratives, media ‘experts’ and other intellectual peddlers have moved elsewhere, selling the same tired arguments about other Arab countries

by insisting on the same failed, expedient logic.

Arab revolutions have not failed, but they have not succeeded either. They have simply challenged the status quo like never before. The outcome of the new conflicts will define the politics of the region, its future, and the relationships between governments and the upcoming generations of Arabs.

Ramzy Baroud (www.ramzybaroud.net) is a media consultant, an internationally-syndicated columnist and the editor of PalestineChronicle.com. His latest book is: My Father was A Freedom Fighter: Gaza’s Untold Story (Pluto Press).


Dubai ESOMAR Live

7 NEXT DECADE RESEARCH TRENDS REVEALED

The economic, social and political changes across the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan (MENAP) and their unique marketing challenges

will be in the spotlight at the upcoming ESOMAR conference, according to Finn Raben, Director General of ESOMAR – an organization which encourages, advances and elevates market research worldwide.

Raben was speaking ahead of the Dubai gathering of market research professionals, dubbed ESOMAR’s Best of MENAP 2014 conference set for March 11-12, which will discuss the role of market research in driving business, delivering insights, and capturing trends within the region.

Stan Sthanunathan, Senior Vice President - Consumer & Market Insights, Unilever, UK will deliver the keynote address on the mainstream trends that could shape the Insights Industry in the next decade.

“While we don’t have a crystal ball to predict the future, we can somewhat define our path by following the consumer, digital and research trends that are shaping our business each day. We have identified seven key trends that look to effect the coming decade and will provide useful information for determining the impact of insights for research and beyond,” he said.

Sthanunathan will explore trends including ‘Go Mobile or lose out’, ‘Big

is not always beautiful’, ‘Go Social or Lose Relevance’, ‘Integrate or you will disintegrate’, ‘Telling impactful stories is mission critical’, ‘Asking questions and getting answers will be history’, and ‘Biometrics: The new mainstream’.

“These trends will not only define what the future holds, but also how your business will need to be structured to ensure you maintain a competitive edge,” added Sthanunathan.

Echoing his sentiments, Steve Hamilton-Clark, CEO of TNS MENA, the world’s largest custom market research organisation, said, “The region’s market research sector is at last finding itself in demand as marketers are driven to find out what the consumer really wants.”

Under the tagline, Creating Value – From Insight To Foresight, the conference is expected to attract more than 150 delegates from across the region embracing the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan.

Regional and international market research, advertising and marketing experts will take the stage at the two-day conference organised by ESOMAR Live, to share regional business and market research issues, as well as learning and networking opportunities.

The event also features a workshop presented by David Smith, DVL Smith, UK on how marketing research has evolved and the new, ‘consultative’ skills that marketers need to possess to ensure that this information is used

effectively in organisational decision-making.

Raben explained that “Returning to Dubai for the third consecutive year and hosting the ‘Best of’ conference allows professionals to collaborate and benefit from advanced thinking and idea sharing that is present in the research industry today.”

“The Middle East has always been a commercial powerhouse in global terms and we see a demand from its market research community to be an ‘insight powerhouse’ and are thrilled to participate in this role and to contribute towards the positive development of the region.”

ESOMAR’s BEST OF MENAP 2014, March 11 - 12, 2014 @The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE. www.esomar.org/boe-menap-2014

ESOMAR Live, to share regional business and market research issues, as well as learning and networking opportunities.

FA BBYP Discover_Gulf Insider Full Page (20cm x 26.5cm) March 2014.pdf 1 2/23/14 9:04 AM


Feature Profile

Dr Lucy Lui

PROFILE

Dr Lucy Lui, the Bahrain based acupuncture expert.

What’s your medical background?

I’ve been practicing acupuncture and Chinese medicine in Bahrain since

2008. I’m privileged to come from a famous family of doctors

in north eastern China. After studying Chinese medicine at the prestigious Helong Jiang university for 6 years, I commenced my hospital training and was awarded my Doctor’s license in 1994.

What exactly is acupuncture?

It has always been a core part of traditional

Chinese medicine which dates back over 5,000

years and, unlike so many so called alternative remedies, it

is now widely recognized by the mainstream

medical profession as a valid complementary

treatment to Western medicine.

How does it work? It is based on the understanding of

the flow of “chi” or energy around the human body and qualified practitioners use tiny needles on the body’s classical acupuncture points that affect and control this flow, enabling them to treat a wide range of symptoms relating to pain and illness.

Does it hurt? As a rule no, although some people

are more sensitive than others and may initially have a little discomfort for a few seconds - however the benefits that come from pain relief more than compensate for this!

What are the most common symptoms you treat?

Most of my patients come to me needing treatment for problems like lower back, shoulder and neck pain, being overweight, migraine, stress or circulatory problems related to illnesses such as diabetes, gout or arthritis. I also have a number of patients who suffer from rarer conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy or who are recovering from strokes - and of course these have longer treatment cycles but I can deliver a better quality of life to these patients.

Any final words? Life is a balance - we Chinese call it

Ying and Yang - if a body is out of balance then this affects its ability to perform properly.

Dr Lucy Liu manages the Chinese medical services and chiropractic massage team at The Chinese Medical Clinic, West Riffa, Kingdom of Bahrain, which is supervised by the Bahrain Medical Group. She can be contacted on +973 37778922 / email: [email protected]


Travel Istanbul

View from Galata Tower

ISTANBUL

Istanbul is the only city in the world that lies on two continents, Europe and Asia, and is full of unique history combined with multitude of culture to offer its visitors. What’s so interesting

and special about the city is the way the old and modern Istanbul blends well together creating a fascinating vibrant atmosphere that makes it unforgettable. Walking around the city, you’ll see the splendor of old mosques, churches (some were converted to mosques like the well-known Hagia Sophia) and other majestic architectural structures built

from the Roman Byzantine era, Ottoman Constantinople, to present day modern commercial buildings.

I fell in love with the city the moment I got out of the airport. The wonderful sunrise peeking through the dense fog covering the trees with refreshing views of the sea was the first thing that captured my attention. Upon arriving at the Ritz Carlton Hotel situated near the Dolmabahçe Palace, I was greeted with a spectacular sight of the Bosphorus strait which divides the European and the Asian part of Turkey.

The city provides a variety of transportation options including buses, taxis, trams, metro and ferries which I find very convenient. I chose to walk most of the time for theres always something new and interesting to see in each street you pass by. Walking from my hotel to the famous Taksim Square through the bustling street of İstiklal Caddesi, stopping for a coffee near Galata Tower, watching the people enjoy fishing while I stroll down Galata Bridge and exploring tourists spots became my daily routine during the 5 day trip.

Last month Redia Castillo went to Istanbul for a photography adventure.


Istanbul Travel

Places I’ve seen and would recommend visiting:İstiklal Caddesi, Beyoğlu - Walk along the street that never sleeps, it is insanely busy jam-packed of people passing by all day and night. Istiklal Street is a long stretch of cobblestone street with a lot of fashion shops, music stores, art galleries, theaters, cinemas, restaurants, hotels and cafés. Enjoy ‘Kestane kebab’ (roasted chestnuts) and Turkish bagels from street vendors. See the historic red tram running from the Tünel funicular station to Taksim Square. The tram is an attraction for kids, who hop onto the back for a free ride. View Colorful graffiti on the walls along the streets and alleys and watch talented street entertainers.

Galata Tower, Beyoğlu - At the end of Istiklal Street lies Galata Tower where

I usually take a break and relax among the cafés next to the Tower. It was built by the Genoese during the Byzantine Empire. Climb up the tower just before sunset and you’ll see a breathtaking 360 degrees panoramic view of Istanbul.

Galata Bridge - If you’re taking a tram, hop off at Karaköy station. Sunset is also the best time to walk along Galata bridge, located between Beyoğlu and the Northern District that spans across the Golden Horn. It gives a splendid view of the Galata Tower with seagulls

flying on the foreground, on the other side; watch the sun sets silhouetting the mosques (including Yeni & Süleymaniye Mosques) and the city with red, yellow and orange hues. Fishermen with their fishing lines line up along the bridge throughout the day patiently waiting for their catch. This has become a Turkish tradition throughout the years.

Bosphorous Cruise - Taking a Bosphorous ferry tour is a great way to see most of the historical sites within a few hours especially if you only have little time to spend for your holiday. The ferry tour costs 25TL for a round trip ride from Eminönü to the black sea and back.

Sultanahmet Station - Hop off Sultanahmet tram station to see the following places built during the Ottoman Period located just walking distance to

each other and allocate a full day to visit all the places including the Blue Mosque, Byzantine Hippodrome - Theodosias Obelisk, Kostantinos Obelisk, Serpents column and more, and the Million Stone. Stop by at a café or restaurants for a break and proceed to Topkapı Palace and Museum and Harem, Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Museum, Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıçı)and Museum, Turkish and Islamic Artwork Museum, and the Archeological Museum.

After the long walks, I pampered

What’s so interesting and special about the city is the way the old and modern Istanbul blends well together creating a fascinating vibrant atmosphere that makes it unforgettable.


Travel Istanbul

myself to an invigorating body scrub and bubble wash. One of the top ten things to do in Istanbul is to experience the traditional Turkish Hamam which I did in style at the Ritz Carlton Hotel.

Sadly I did not visit the Asian part. 5 days is surely not enough and there are a lot of places that I have yet to see. Istanbul is a spectacular city with fascinating history, remarkable architecture, vibrant culture and wonderful people. It’s a place I will always love to go back to.

TRAVEL INFO

Getting there: I flew to Istanbul by Turkish Airlines from Bahrain. Their Lounge in Istanbul is spacious with world-class facilities. It has self-service luggage lockers, pool table, library area, masseuse and much more. The food was great and they serve a wide variety of selections to choose from. www.turkishairlines.com, Tel. +973 17 516 100

Where I stayed: The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul. Five Star hotel located in the heart of the city overlooking the Bosphorus, it is just 15 minutes from the famous historical old town attractions of Sultanahmet, Topkapı Palace, Blue Mosque and

Grand Bazaar. The vibrant nightlife districts of Beyoğlu and Karaköy as well as the famous Galata Tower area 25-minute stroll from the hotel and Istanbul’s sophisticated shopping areas such as Nişantaşı, Kanyon, Zorlu Center and İstinye Park can all be reached in less than 20 minutes. The hotel’s Spa has been completely renovated and features nine treatment rooms, a unique 17-metre indoor pool and provides authentic Turkish Hammam service. www.ritzcarlton.com/istanbul, Tel. +90 (212) 334 4444

Tours: Special tour itinerary designed for groups and tailored packages for individual travellers like the City Tour, Bhosphorous Tour, 1001 Nights Tour and Princess Island Tour can be arranged by Helen Holidays. www.helenholidays.com, Tel. +90 (212) 225 5250

Hagia Sophia

İstiklal Caddesi

The Ritz-Carlton , Istanbul with Dolmabahçe Palace on the foreground

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture offers relief from chronic pain

Medical Treatment and Acupuncture• If you have lower back, neck or shoulder pain... • If you have high blood sugar or diabetes... • If you have circulation or paralysis problems...

Chiropractic & Medical MassageIf you suffer from stiffness in your back, neck, or with any of your joints/ muscles, James and Annie from our medical and chiropractic massage team will be pleased to help you.

Please call Bahrain›s leading traditional Chinese doctor and Acupuncturist,

Dr Lucy Liu on +973 3777 8922

Please call the Clinic on

+973 1766 4088 to book an appointment

Qualified practitioner in traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

Dr. Lucy LiuThe Chinese Medical Clinic is part

of The Bahrain Medical Group

The Bahrain based lifestyle and luxury magazine with style and editorial flare that is enjoyed by

affluent customers - both

Arab and Expats.

You can now read our magazines virtually at www.bahrain-confidential.com

Taking It To The Next Level - Leaders in the Hospitality Industry

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion! Issue

134

BAHRAIN BD2 KSA SR20 KUWAIT KD2 OMAN RO2 QATAR QR20 UAE DHS20

Online edition at www.Bahrain-Confidential.com

The Raceis ON!Who will be elected for BCCI?

Discover a Whole New World

Scuba Diving in BahrainFashion With a TwistHRX By The One and Only - Hrithik Roshan


Advertorial

Nick Cooksey enjoys 3 hours of tranquillity and total relaxation in the centre of Manama.

RELAXATION THE INTERCONTINENTAL WAY

Who says men don’t need pampering every now and again? Spa InterContinental offers a signature men’s treatment, “Total Relaxation &

De-Stress” that can cause three hours of your day to evaporate into clouds of bliss.

This wizardry is achieved in three stages, namely exfoliating, massage, and a facial, but time had already stopped as soon I stepped out of the hustle and bustle of Manama into the elegant marbled spa. After a refreshing dose of cold ginger and lemongrass tea with honey, the treatment began.

They started with a 50-minute treatment, vigorously rubbing me down

with a Bruno Vassari granulated scrub mixed with antioxidant-rich grapeseed oil. It sloughs off dead skin and all the cares of the world, and presumably has firming effects.

After a quick shower, the next step was a 50-minute deep tissue sports massage. My masseuse was knowledgeable, skilled, very strong (!), and knew how to apply just the right amount of pressure. Guests are asked to choose from a number of aromatherapy oils such as lavender, jasmine, and ylang ylang for their treatment.

The third part was the enchantingly named “Enchanting Escape Facial”. The pleasure in this comes from how utterly superfluous it is, its only purpose being to

spoil me—and to smoothen and hydrate the face, or something... who knows? Apparently it’s suitable for normal to combination skins. A therapist patiently played out an hour-long elaborate ritual of cleansing, toning, microdermabrasion, toning again, applying an intensive hydrating face mask, rinsing it off, and treating me like the most precious gem in the world. All products used are from Brunovassari.

I emerged from the treatment utterly relaxed, glowing, was rewarded for my efforts with a hot cup of the same ginger and lemongrass tea. As I sat there cocooned in my fluffy white robe, absorbing the ambient music, my only concern was how exactly three hours


Advertorial

had passed when it felt like a lot less.When you book your treatment, the

spa advises you to come at least 30 minutes early so that you can enjoy their facilities. You can swim, if you wish, and a stint in the sauna is recommended because it opens the pores and makes the exfoliating process more effective.

My advice is to take half the day off from work and treat yourself to this session because if you are worth it, then it is so worth it! The duration of treatment is 180 minutes and the price is BD80.

Spa InterContinental Tel. +973 1720 8355

When you book your treatment, the spa advises you to come at least 30 minutes early so that you can enjoy their facilities.


Feature F1 Performers

THE SCORPIONS, RABEH SAQER, AND AVICII COMING TO BAHRAIN FOR F1

The Scorpions and AVICII are among the top-class international artists that will

be performing live during the upcoming Grand Prix weekend, marking BIC’s 10th anniversary and landmark 10th hosting of the Formula One race.

THE SCORPIONS are putting on their

fi r s t - e v e r show in the

Kingdom of Bahrain. They are currently made up of Klaus Meine (lead vocals), Rudolf Schenker (guitar), Matthias Jabs (lead guitar), James Kottak (drums) and Pawel Maciwoda (bass).

Some of their greatest hits include “Rock You Like a Hurricane”, “Wind of Change”, “Still Loving You”, “Send Me An Angel” and “No One Like You”. They first formed in 1965, and have since sold more than 100 million records worldwide.

Rabeh Saqer is one of the biggest names in the Arabic music industry. He has a massive fan base across the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia where he is one of the country’s most beloved artists.

AVICII is renowned for his spectacular live shows, bringing audiences to ecstatic moments of party bliss and “driving the crowd bonkers”, according to Rolling Stone magazine, who have also hailed AVICII as “one of the Princes of the contemporary renaissance of Electronic Dance Music”.

After just three years of performing, the 24 year old Swede rocketed to the number three position on DJ Mag’s yearly poll of the Top 100 DJs and has appeared on Forbes’ Most Powerful Artists Under 30 in 2013 and 2014.

Tickets to the Main Grandstand cost BD150 for the race weekend. Oasis Grandstand tickets cost BD120 apiece. A Turn One Grandstand ticket costs BD100, while tickets to the University Grandstand and Victory Grandstand are BD60 apiece.

All tickets are for all three days of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend, giving each holder access to the three major concerts.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.bahraingp.com or on the official BIC page on Facebook; or by calling the BIC Hotline on +973-17-450000.

Avicii

The Scorpions

Rabeh Saqer


Dubai Boat Show

Middle East Ultra-High Net Worth corners the market for worldwide superyacht purchases.

ULTRA-HIGH NET WORTH

The Middle East has anchored itself among the most important superyacht markets with the highest growth as owners of luxury superyachts in the

region continues to increase swiftly, according to leading trade organisation the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss).

Superyacht Builders Association: nearly half of Middle East’s UHNWIs likely to own a superyacht with ‘propensity to buy’ at 48%.

Robert van Tol, Operational Director,

Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss), said: “While traditionally, Western Europe and North America are the major markets for superyachts of 40 metres and above in numbers, due to the many ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNWI) in these regions, the penetration percentage of each area - the number of UHNWIs versus number of superyacht owners - provides a much more interesting insight into the markets.”

“The 2013 SYBAss Economic Report, developed in cooperation with Boston


Boat Show Dubai

Consulting Group, reveals that the Middle East has the highest ‘propensity to buy’ a superyacht, at 48%. This means that nearly half of the UHNWIs in the Middle East are likely to own or buy a superyacht - higher than anywhere else in the world,” he added.

The largest yacht in the world Azzam and around a third of the other 200 largest yachts globally are owned by the residents and nationals of the Middle East, according to a 2013 market analysis conducted by Boat International.

These figures are further validated as the superyacht industry plows full speed ahead, with 2014 slated to be the first year for an increase in superyacht builds since 2009, according to the 2014 ShowBoats International Global Order Book.

The Dubai International Boat Show will host 19 superyachts on water this year, including the largest boat to be displayed in the history of the show, which is built by Oceanco.

Luxury yachts were recently named the most popular luxury acquisition for billionaires, according to research organisation Wealth-X, which provides intelligence on ultra-high net worth individuals.

The recent World Ultra Wealth Report, based on findings in the Wealth-X and UBS Billionaire Census 2013, states that the Middle East’s billionaires – with a combined net worth of USD354 billion – hold a higher percentage of total wealth than in any other region in the world. Forty percent of the Middle East’s Ultra High Net Worth wealth is held by the region’s 157 billionaires, compared to 28% in Europe, 22% in North America and 18% in Asia, according to the report.

Property consultant Knight Frank predicts that the number of US dollar billionaires in the Middle East will grow by 45% over the next decade with the HNWI population (individuals having net assets over USD30 million) in the region

growing by 58% in 2022. The report also forecasts that the UAE HNWI population will grow by 53% in 2022.

Demonstrating the far-reaching demand for superyachts as well as leisure marine craft and services, the Dubai International Boat Show is expected to draw visitors from more than 70 countries, including key buyers from Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and will host 840 exhibitors and brands from 50 countries, with an expected 35% growth in US companies confirming floor space this year.

World-renowned superyacht manufacturer Lurssen returns to the show for the 10th year and is among the makers of the world’s largest yachts, including the 180-metre yacht Azzam,

which was delivered in October 2013.Rob Luijendijk, CEO of AMELS

is pleased with the ‘superyacht life culture’ of HNWIs in the region and beyond and revealed plans for the Dutch master shipbuilders at the show: “The Middle East has always been very important for us - some of the largest superyachts are owned by ultra-high net worth individuals from this region. We’ve experienced a significant increase in enquiries this year, and at the moment our yard is busier than ever with nine new construction projects and two refits.”

The 22nd Dubai International Boat Show at Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi is open to trade visitors and the general public from 3pm – 9.30pm daily from 4-8 March 2014.

For more information visit www.boatshowdubai.com

The Dubai International Boat Show will host 19 superyachts on water this year, including the largest boat to be displayed in the history of the show.


Dubai Student Parking Lot

THE STUDENT PARKING LOT AT THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI

Meeka Nasser is a student at the American University of Dubai and posted these photos of the amazing cars that fill the school’s parking lot. He wrote: Keep in

mind, almost all of the students are between 18 and 24 years old.”

Meeka gave us permission to run some of the photos, so we’ve picked out our favorites (We’ve blocked the license plates.)

No parking spaces left for someone’s Maserati

Another Continental GT Rolls-Royce

Bentley Continental GT

The flag of the United Arab Emirates decorates this Mercedes hood


Student Parking Lot Dubai

One Mercedes owner went for the chrome red look.

There’s some American muscle at the university, too.

Rolls-Royce Nissan GT-R Mercedes-Benz G Class

Audi R8

A Porsche and a Ferrari, side by side

The Prancing Horse

Another Audi R8

Lamborghini Gallardo


Car BMW 650

Reviewed by Nick Cooksey

CAR REVIEW

CAR INSIDER: 2014 BMW 650I GRAN COUPE

The author of this article, Nick Cooksey, In addition to being publisher of Arabian Magazines is a jury panel member of the Middle East Motor Awards.


BMW 650 Car

smaller engines more efficient, and therefore more powerful, than the larger engines they replace. Therefore the 640i uses a 3.0-liter Twin Power turbo six-cylinder 315 bhp engine, while the 650i has a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V-8 400 bhp engine, while the M6 (tested in Gulf Insider January issue) provides an even more massive 560 horsepower twin-turbo V-8.

All Gran Coupe models feature four doors, and inside, there’s every electric gadget and luxury you can possibly think of. The cockpit instrument panel is cleanly laid out and the elegant dash surrounds you in the shape of an arc. The steering wheel has a nice feel.

Materials and trims are elegant, excellent, and no less than comes in a 7 Series. In fact the trim is exactly what you’d expect for the premium price. Despite it’s big size and four doors, the 6 Series isn’t a substitute for the 7 Series, this is a true sporting grand tourer, and anyway there’s not enough headroom in the back for most adults which means it’s designed for the pleasure of the driver and not anyone sitting in the back.

Every 6 Series comes with a rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors; power windows, locks, and mirrors; cruise control; leather upholstery; and the newly updated iDrive infotainment and control system with 10.2-inch widescreen display to enable multi-function access of the car’s systems.

Taking it for a drive on Bahrain’s highways and it very quickly becomes apparent that the 6 Series has massive power and adaptive electronics, generating near-supercar performance despite its being a very comfortable and civilized car designed for daily use.

This is both a sports and a luxury car combined, and you wouldn’t know it weighs substantially over two tons with the ease and grace with which this car handles - it can be programmed for over 200 combinations of suspension, throttle, transmission, steering and traction settings.

It’s a beautifully put together

automobile and its power is impressive.So having driven both the 650 and

the M6, which is my favorite? To be honest, and obviously speaking personally, I would choose the first over the latter. The M6 is very cultured, far more so than previous Ms which were designed for speed over comfort, but there is still some compromise made to deliver the sort of performance that you will (or should) only be able to fully utilize in Bahrain on the BIC F1 circuit. Therefore I believe I could more than manage with the immensely powerful 400 horsepower provided by the ‘standard’ 650.

To arrange a test drive in Bahrain contact EuroMotors on +973 1775 0750

The 650i Gran Coupe looks great. It’s a big car with its masculine sculptured shape complete with contoured headlight units and large alloy wheels it makes

an aggressive statement. What’s more, the latest 2014 model is a huge improvement on the previous pre-2012 6 Series which was heavier in every sense and not nearly as good looking. The new 6 is wider, lower, tauter and overall more sculpted.

The titles on BMWs nowadays, such as for the 6 Series - 640i and 650i, reflect virtual and not actual engine size. This is due to vast improvements in engine technology over the years that make

The 6 Series has massive power and adaptive electronics, generating near-supercar performance despite its being a very comfortable and civilized car designed for daily use.


Fashion Saks Fifth

Available at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain City Centre +973 1717 2000

Casual WearBlood Concept t-shirts has strong personality and an independent flair. Worn out and eroded with hand embroidery, suggesting a world were contrast plays a leading role.

MEN’S FASHION

BD75

BD75BD104

BD104


Art Painting

ACCESS IS IMPOSSIBLE, Acrylic on canvas & Oil Pastel & Paper Silver

THE ART OF WAEL DARWESH


Painting Art

DOWNSIDE OF THE GOLDEN STAIRS, Acrylic on canvas & Oil Pastel

Education - 2008 PhD, Contemporary Painting Philosophy, Faculty of Art Education, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt.

2003 MFA, Painting and drawing department, Faculty of art Education, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt.

1998 BA, Helwan University, Faculty of art Education, Cairo, Egypt.

GREEN CATS ATTACK, Acrylic on canvas & Oil Pastel & Paper Gold

Born in Cairo in 1975, lives and works in Cairo.

Latest Solo Exhibition - 2013 Collective View, Art Sawa, Dubai, UAE.

Latest Group Shows - 2013 Abu Dhabi Art Fair, Art Sawa, Dubai, UAE. 2013 Christie’s Auction Dubai , UAE.

2013 Syri-Arts Exhibition & Auction, Beirut Exhibition Center, Lebanon. 2013 The 55th Venice Biennale, Maldives Pavilion, Venice, Italy. 2013 Art 13 LONDON, Art Sawa, at Olympia, London, UK.

CONSPIRATORS… AND THE PERSON WITH A GOLDEN SHADE, Acrylic on canvas & Oil Pastel & Paper Silver


Last Word

WHAT VERY SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE HAVE IN COMMON

Jeffrey Pfeffer identified six traits that were keys to success. Pfeffer pulls no punches. These are what studies have shown works and what has been

demonstrated through history when analyzing the lives of those who have reached the highest levels.

1. Energy and physical stamina - High achievers work relentlessly. And to do that, you must have the energy. The ability and willingness to work grueling hours has characterized many powerful figures. First, it enables you to outlast your opposition, or to use sheer hard work to overcome others who surpass you in intelligence or skill. Second, your energy and endurance provide a role model for others, something that will inspire those around you to work harder. 2. Focus - Expertise acquired by concentrating on a narrow range of

business issues. Concentrating your career in a single industry and in one or a very few organizations is helpful because it means that your energy is not diverted, and your attention is focused on a narrower set of concerns and problems.

3. Sensitivity to others - It should be clear that being sensitive to others does not mean that one is necessarily going to act in their interests, in a friendly fashion, or on their behalf. Sensitivity simply means understanding who they are, their position on the issues, and how best to communicate with and influence them.

4. Flexibility - This is a very important characteristic for those who hope to develop power. It provides the capacity to change course and to adopt new approaches, rather than clinging to actions that are not working. Flexibility

also helps one to acquire allies, as it is easier to shift approaches to accommodate different interests.

5. Ability to tolerate conflict - If you back down every time it looks like a fight is coming, well, you’re not going to win many fights. Sometimes fighting is necessary. And just having others know you’re willing to fight can pay major dividends - the need for power arises only under circumstances of disagreement.

6. Submerging one’s ego and getting along - Just as being toothless is bad business, so is fighting all the time. Ego can be a huge enemy, even when you know what the smart move is. It is a great advantage to be able to swallow your pride and lose the battle in order to win the war.

Stanford MBA school professor Jeffrey Pfeffer looked at the research on success and power along with studying the lives of such high achievers.

For more information contact: T: +973 1700 4575, F: +973 1772 1722, M: +973 3652 [email protected]

ProDesign Arabia has been designing and coding websites for small and medium-sized businesses for many years now. We can design and create sleek, modern websites that

help businesses make an impact, increase sales and grow. Our language of choice is plain English, but we can speak fluent geek when we need to. We may be au fait with

the more technical stuff but this doesn’t mean we can’t communicate with real people in the real world. In fact our strength lies in going out and meeting people, talking, and most

importantly, listening and responding to our clients’ needs.

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