Wednesday, October 12, 2011

UAE seen as safe haven for foreign firms amid unrest

Relocation specialists Links Group said on Tuesday that more international firms were looking to set up Middle East operations in the UAE amid the impact of the Arab Spring.

The company, which recorded its strongest year on record for business incorporation in the UAE, said the Arab Spring movement had played to the UAE's advantage with regional companies choosing to relocate their core business functions or headquarters to the emirates.

Links said companies saw the UAE as a safe haven, where they have greater confidence in the economic and political future of the country.

In the first three quarters of 2011, Links Group recorded a 75 percent increase in onshore business licence issuance in Dubai and Abu Dhabi compared to the same period last year, it said in a statement.

"This places demand for onshore company formation at higher levels than the firm experienced during the boom years of 2006 to 2008," the statement added.

According to Links Group, asset protection has been the major motivation of business unit relocation to the UAE, particularly for finance and HR functions.

John Martin St Valery, founder and CEO, Links Group, said that as economic uncertainty grips Europe and the US, foreign businesses are seeing the UAE as central to their business expansion strategies to tap opportunities in the neighbouring GCC markets.

He added: "The increased interest in establishing a legal commercial presence in the UAE reaffirms the country's status as the regional trading hub and strategic gateway to the rest of the Middle East.

"This interest is not only coming from places like Egypt and Bahrain, but Europe and the US too where economies are also in decline or remain flat. This signals to us conviction in the UAE leadership and its pro-business environment and certainly bodes well for national GDP growth."

Construction, consultancy services and petrochemicals are the sectors in which Links Group has seen strongest growth in 2011, with many of these companies positioning themselves in the UAE to respond to the anticipated release of large project tenders in Qatar.

 

Monday, Jun 28, 2010

Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International receives Airport Certification

Dubai joined an elite group of being a two airport city yesterday. Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) received its airport certification from The General Civil Aviation Authority of the UAE and is now ready to accept cargo flights.

This completes phase 1 of the project that over time will see this new airport transformed into the world’s largest global gateway and a multi- modal logistics hub that plays an increasingly integral role in the ongoing economic and social development of Dubai.

The $33bn urban development which in time will be twice the size of Hong Kong Island will see its first passengers in March 2011.

When completed DWC –Al Maktoum International Airport will be the largest airport in the world with five runways, 4 terminal buildings and a capacity for 160 million passengers and 12m tonnes of cargo.

 

Monday, Jun 28, 2010

British passports will be processed outside of the UAE

Britons in the UAE have one month to renew their passports in the UAE. After August 1st all passport applications will be processed at the British Passport Processing Centre, (PPC) in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Applicants will need to post their applications and passports to this office. Emirates Post does not send passports through their postal service so logistic services will need to be used.

A care line has been set up for queries located in London, opened Monday until Friday 9am until 6pm (UAE time) +44 208 082 4736. Queries about the application process, documents required and the stage of process will be dealt with. This is an English speaking service.

All applications must include a completed application form, 2 passport photographs and supporting documents – birth certificates, marriage certificates etc. The old passport must also be enclosed for cancellation, the residency visa stamp will however remain valid, therefore the old passport must be carried with the new one when entering and leaving the country. Also, sufficient time has to be allowed for processing prior to travelling.

 

Monday, Jun 28, 2010

Lack of health insurance results health neglect

A month long survey of households across the UAE including house help, concludes that a large number of Arab and Asian expatriates do not have health insurance cover.

The Federal government are working on new laws to ensure people have a basic level of health cover. Unlike residents of Abu Dhabi who are all covered by mandatory health insurance, Dubai has yet to enforce laws that make it compulsory for all workers including family members to have health cover. As a result many expats do not seek treatment in time because of the high costs incurred and therefore neglect their conditions.

Health insurance is considerably cheaper in the UAE than it is in Europe or the US, but still companies do not provide cover.

The object of the survey is to understand the requirements of Dubai nationals, residents and visitors so that the DHA can meet their needs by tailoring policies to best suit the population.

The survey covered 5,000 households a cross section of Emiratis, expat households and labour camps.

 

Tuesday, Jun 22, 2010

Launch of Emirates Family Network

A new organisation tackling family problems including infidelity and divorce has been set up. The Emirates Family Network (EFN ) was officially launched yesterday to raise awareness of emotional and health issues surrounding families in the UAE.

EFN is a charitable organisation set up under the vision and Patronage of HH Sheikha Bin Hind Al Quassimi.

The Emirates Family Network plans to conduct ongoing awareness and education activities throughout the UAE, in shops and malls, and will also provide seminars in workplaces, discussing the topics of family related activities and achieving good family communications.

The UAE has one of the highest divorce rates in the world relative to the adult population, with latest figures in2008 recording 3,000 divorces.

Infertility is also a rising concern with 1:6 couples n the UAE being affected.

 

Tuesday, Jun 22, 2010

Ramadan Starts August 11th

The Holy Month of Ramadan is likely to start on Wednesday 10th August and Eid-Al- Fitr will fall on Friday September 10th according to a UAE astronome.

During the Holy Month, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking and other such pleasures between the hours of sunrise and sunset. The expatriate population and visitors are forbidden to drink or eat in public places during these hours. The expatriate population and visitors are also reminded to dress and behave respectfully during this Holy Month.

All restaurants and cafes in shopping malls or public places will be closed during these hours. Restaurants attached to hotels will be generally open as normal with a few exceptions. No alcohol is served in hotels during these hours but sale will resume after sunset. No live music is allowed.

The days fast is broken with ‘Iftar ‘meal traditionally serving dates, pastries and Arabic coffee.

 

Tuesday, Jun 22, 2010

Waste Management trucks get a make- over

Dubai Municipality’s waste Management Department has launched an initiative to make garbage trucks look nicer by decorating them with flowers.

Hassan Makki, the Director of Waste Management said his department looks for ways to improve its services all the time,’ We have tried to enhance the general appearance of the waste carriers’, he said and added that the Municipality wants to improve the aesthetics of Dubai by ‘decorating the vehicles with beautiful designs of flowers taken from local nature. This will create a positive impression of public services’, he said.

He also advises that the department had also increased the number of garbage bins in many areas of Dubai in order to improve waste management.

 

Monday, Jun 21, 2010

Improved standards in Dubai Schools

Teaching standards have improved significantly, an inspection report has revealed as the kids break for the extended long summer holiday.

The second annual report of 2020 published by the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau (DSIB) tracks the progress of schools since the inspection was introduced in 2008.The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) inspectors visited approximately 15,000 classes and conducted some 1500 interviews with students and staff, on top of this approx 80,000 parents completed an on line questionnaire.

Good and outstanding teaching in public schools has risen significantly from 34% to 48% according to the KHDA. Private schools are found to have improved their provision of Arabic and Islamic education however, a significant number were still in breach of education regulations where a prescribed amount of Arabic and Islamic education needs to be incorporated into the curriculum. Many schools insist they cannot meet the set requirements due to the shortage of qualified Arabic teachers in the country.

Many parents attribute the improved teaching standards to the inspection framework introduced by the KHDA and links fee increases to a schools performance.

Private schools in Dubai will break for summer holidays July 1st and are due back mid September, after the Eid break which ends the Holy Month of Ramadan.

 

Sunday, Jun 13, 2010

UAE jumps rank on Global Peace Index

The UAE has moved to take up 44th place on the Global Peace Index (GPI).

The top five countries most at peace are New Zealand, Iceland, Japan, Austria and Norway in that order.

In the survey, produced annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) along with The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the UAE has jumped three places from its position last year.

In more good news for the region, a study of the past four years of the GPI shows that conflict in the Middle East and Africa has declined, of course benefiting the economies of these regions.

The world is less peaceful in 2010, with violence costing the global economy $7.4 trillion annually. The least peaceful place of the 149 countries survey is Iraq, preceded in ranking Somalia, Afghanistan, Sudan and Pakistan.

Other Middle Eastern countries, Qatar is 15th on the list and Oman ranks 23rd.These countries are witnessing increased political stability and improved ties with their neighbours. More countries in the Middle East have reduced their military spend.

 

Sunday, Jun 13, 2010

UAE close to granting companies 100% foreign ownership

The UAE moves closer to issuing a new company law that may allow 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors.

The legal advisors at the Ministry of Economy said yesterday that the draft legislation awaits approval from the cabinet before being finally endorsed by the Federal National Council.

Under UAE law only Emirati nationals are allowed full ownership of companies operating outside free zones. The law requires foreign companies to have a UAE national as a partner or sponsor in order to conduct business.

 

Monday, Jun 07, 2010

Going Fishing....

Expatriates who wish to fish in Dubai waters must be Dubai residents, a senior official from Dubai Municipality has said..

Those who want to fish either from the shore along the extensive coastline or from a boat must obtain a licence from the Municipality. Fishing licences will be given to those in possession of residency visas issued in Dubai and living here.

Licences will not be issued to those who hold residency visas issued in another Emirate. The same law will follow in other Emirates. Those caught fishing without a licence will be fined.

Application for licences will take a form of a completed application form – copy of passport and visa, rental contract copy or title deed copy and 2 passport photos. This service is free of charge.

The aim is to protect marine life and maintain stock. In a statement the Municipality said ‘the sea is the same all over the Emirates and there is no difference in fish types in the sea from Emirate to Emirate”.

 

Thursday, Jun 03, 2010

Links Group, the company formation specialists, announces the launch of Links Marketing in the UAE and Qatar.

The Links Group today announced the launch of Links Marketing, a joint venture between The Links Group of Companies and Collaborate Marketing.

Links Marketing will develop robust marketing strategies and communication plans as well as provide marketing implementation for corporate and product initiatives on behalf of clients of The Links Group in both Qatar and the UAE.

The Links Group, Chief Executive Officer, John Martin St. Valery said, "The Links Group is firmly established as a company formation specialist, but we plan to strengthen our core business by offering additional added value strategic services to assist our clients in building successful enterprises in the UAE and Qatar.

Links Marketing will provide marketing strategy, planning and implementation to clients who do not have in-house marketing expertise or require assistance with building their brands in this market."

Mr. Martin St. Valery explained that the move to appoint a marketing services provider for LINKS group clients was in response to reduced budgets and resources in corporate departments in recent years.

He added: 'There is a definite shift towards companies looking to promote and market themselves once again and we feel that by offering a bespoke range of services specially developed for a clients' needs that we can support them as they look to re-enter the marketing arena.

'At Links Marketing, our business model will be to provide individual marketing packages tailored to suit a particular marketing initiative be it the inception of a new brand to adapting a global brand for the local marketplace, to generating general awareness and long term customer loyalty," said Deirdra Murphy, Managing Partner of Links Marketing and Founding Partner of Collaborate Marketing.

Links Marketing will be headquartered in The Fairmont, Dubai, UAE. For more information, please visit www.the-links-group.com or contact deirdra@linksmarketing.me.

Collaborate Marketing was, formed in 2007 and provides successful marketing solutions to a range of clients across the Middle East. The company has a reputation for innovative and creative marketing solutions within a cost effective budget. Since its inception, Collaborate has provided end-to-end marketing solutions to businesses across the region, from start-ups to well-established names such as Al Batha Group (owners of over 20 diversified companies including GECO and AGMC), MasterCard Advisors, Emcredit (The UAE's first private credit bureau) and mostly recently Google to name a few.

 

Tuesday, Jun 01, 2010

‘Dubai Declaration’ to control tobacco use

UAE yesterday released a Dubai Declaration in its fight to control tobacco use and called for a total ban on smoking in public places with no allowance for smoking rooms.

Senior health officials warned that girls as young as six are becoming smokers in the region and called for wide reaching measures as doubling the price of tobacco in effort to reduce temptation among young people.

Dr Hanif Hassan, Minister of Health, released the declaration at the Dubai Women’s Association, to highlight the concern that tobacco firms are targeting women and especially young women. He said there are 1.3 billion smokers worldwide today and that tobacco use in its many forms kills 5 million people every year. Yesterday was World Anti Tobacco Day and petrol stations across the UAE stopped selling cigarettes for the day in support.

The declaration calls for 50% of cigarette packets to be covered with health warnings and graphics. There is also consensus to double the price of tobacco.

 

Tuesday, Jun 01, 2010

New burns unit opens at Rashid Hospital

A state of the art burns unit was officially opened at Dubai’s Rashid Hospital yesterday.

The new facility has eight isolation rooms and a three bed ICU section. The cost of each bed within the burns unit ICU section was DHS 130,000, and houses ultra modern equipment and are certainly on par with global health care standards.

The rewards are instant and redeemable. Every time the customer makes a purchase, the points are added and can be redeemed at the next purchase.

Several other new units were announced as part of the Dubai Health Authority’s plan to renovate the 600 bed unit which was built in 1993. Ten central cardiac monitoring rooms, two sleep labs and a neurosurgical ICU section all opened simultaneously yesterday.

Rashid Hospital is one of the busiest government hospitals serving Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Dr Shawqi Khoury, Director of Rashid Hospital said ‘each new section has been built after analyzing the requirements the hospital needs to fulfill and keeping in mind the health care needs of our patients’.

 

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Doctors warns of health hazards from rising temperatures

With summer almost upon us, child safety advocates are advising parents to prevent children from prolonged outdoor activity, as temperatures rise across the Emirates. The pre-summer heat and increasing amount of ultra-violet (UV) radiation from the sun are silent health hazards.

Dr Abdul Rashid, a physician in Al Ain said heat, direct sunlight and UV rays can cause heatstroke, drowsiness, dehydration leading to confusion and eventually a coma. Children, the elderly and people who work out of doors are more open to the risks, he advised. “If you feel dizziness or weakness, stop what you are doing, take plenty of water and consult a doctor if symptoms persist”.

Dr Riaz Ahmad Minhas, a physician at the Emirates Clinic and Medical Centre in Al Ain said the weather is very hot and unbearable for the human body especially between 12midday and 5pm. During this time people are best advised to avoid staying out in the hot, humid environment and cover their heads and neck before going out in the sun.

People with fair skin are more susceptible to sun burn, heatstroke and other heat related illnesses, but protective measures should be taken by everyone regardless of their skin type or colour.

The UAE’s Government decision to extend the summer midday work break by a month from June 15th to September 15th has been welcomed by major contractors. Most contractors respect the midday working break between 12.30 pm and 3pm on construction sites introduced a number of years ago.

 

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Mobile Based Loyalty programme unveiled in the UAE

Club Apparel, a new loyalty programme that works through mobile phones, has just been launched in Dubai by the Apparel Group, one of the largest branded retailers in the GCC.

The new technology that works through mobile phones makes this programme possible. Customers once members will get one point for each dirham spent on any purchase from any of its 275 retail outlets in the UAE. It negates the need to carry around a loyalty card and as such your mobile phone is your loyalty card thus lightening your wallet and preventing the instance of leaving your card at home.

The rewards are instant and redeemable. Every time the customer makes a purchase, the points are added and can be redeemed at the next purchase.

The programme is being launched in the UAE for now. However, plans are in hand to launch in the 570 stores in 14 countries where the group operate.

Analysts believe loyalty programmes create a win win situation for both the retailers and customers where the companies benefit from higher value transactions while customer get value added.

Apparel Group, formed in the late 1990’s, includes Nine West, Tommy Hilfiger, Promod, Mango, Kenneth Cole, La Senza, Bench, Basler,Inglot, Jeanswest, Aldo, Sketchers, Dune, Bookplus and many others.

The loyalty programme will work across all its branded outlets. 

 

Saturday, 24th April, 2010

New Visa Rules for Qatar

Visas upon arrival:
From the 1st of May 2010 NO visas will be issued upon arrival, all passengers (all nationalities) wish to visit Qatar should have a visa in advance.

Business visa:
All passengers wishing to travel for business meeting, consultation,
conferences, should contact their sponsor (company brunch, conference
organizers) who would be responsible for arranging the required visas through
the Qatari Ministry of Interior. This visa can't be issued from the embassy.

Transit visas:
Visa is not required if you don't leave the transit area at Qatar international
airport, alternatively you have to have a valid visa.

Tourist Visa Requirements:
Please Note that since the 15th of February 2010 all applicants who wish to
apply for the Qatari visa should be:
1- UK passport holder
2- EU Nationals who are resident in the United Kingdom (proof of residency
required).
3- Other nationals should have a UK work permit or a minimum leave to remain in the United Kingdom of one year.
(Please note that the Embassy of the State of Qatar will not process
applications for those who are staying in the United Kingdom on, tourist, visit, and other short stay visas).
You will be required to submit the following:

1. Two original photos (passport size) one attached to the form and the other loose.
2. Visa application form to be completed online and then print it and sign it.
3. Original passport valid for not less than six months from the date of travel and has at least one blank page.
4. Last three months bank statements (original) which must show name, address of the applicant and at least 850 pounds in the account.
5. Fees are payable only in postal order only made payable to the Embassy of the State of Qatar only.
6. Registered or recorded self-addressed envelope must be supplied for any applications made by post to enable the Visa Section to return the passport. The Embassy will not be responsible for any loss of passport by post.
7. Photocopy of the following: bank statement, first page of the passport, residency in the UK.
Fees for tourist visa are payable only by postal order or a company cheque :
Single entry for all nationalities for one month stay: £ 20
Multiple entries for British Passport holders only, each stay is one month only

Six months multi £ 85 Two years multi £ 270 Five years multi £ 500
-One to five years multi - Irish passport only: £ 300

Please note:
Travel documents or temporary passports are not accepted.
To process a visa, allow at least five working days (we advise to obtain the visa before you plan your journey).
Fees for rejected or withdrawn visa applications are non-refundable.
The Consular Section is not obliged to give any explanation for not issuing a visa (refused visas).

Consulate opening hours:
10.00 AM - 1.00 PM Monday to Friday

 

Saturday, 24th April, 2010

THE MOST VALUABLE COLLECTION OF ORIENTALIST PAINTINGS EVER TO BE AUCTIONED IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Bonhams, one of the world's oldest and largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques, will provide art enthusiasts with the opportunity to view and purchase museum quality 19th and 20th Century Orientalist works of art at their upcoming Dubai auction on 13th May. The collection will showcase masterpieces from renowned European and American artists including Edwin Lord Weeks, Rudolf Ernst and José Tapiro y Baro with value tags ranging from $3,000 to $1,500,000. Highlights from the sale will be available for preview in London, Abu Dhabi and Dubai prior to the sale.

 

Saturday, 17th April, 2010

BRITISH EXPATS CAN HAVE THEIR SAY…..

UK expats living in the UAE can register for a postal vote in the forthcoming UK General Election to take place on May 6th. Voters however, will need to register and apply for a vote before April 20TH to allow sufficient time for voting papers to be sent here, completed and returned in time for polling day.

British Citizens living abroad can register as overseas voters if they have been registered to vote in the UK anytime within the last 15 years.

Proxy vote is also an option and involves nominating someone you trust in the UK to go to the ballet box and vote on your behalf on May 6th.

UK ‘s Electoral Commission Head OF Public Information Clinton Proud said ‘ We know many of you still have strong connections to the UK through friends, family or work and that you will want to have your say at the Election. If you are not registered, you will not be able to vote so don’t miss out and register now”

For More Information www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

 

Saturday, 17th April, 2010

Fly Dubai now flies to 15 destinations

Flydubai, Dubai’s first low cost airline, has announced a further 2 routes to its destinations.

Starting May 24th it will serve Assiut, the largest town in Upper Egypt and from June 17th it will serve Istanbul, European Capital of Culture for 2010.

Flights to Assiut are three times per week and priced from 350Dhs whilst flights to Istanbul will be five times per week and priced from 450Dhs.

This announcement comes two weeks after launching flights to Muscat and Kuwait City.

Ghaith Al Ghaith CEO of flydubai said’ The addition of these new routes is in line with our commitment to make travel to key destinations in this region more accessible and more affordable’

www.flydubai.com

 

Friday, April 16th, 2010

THE MOST VALUABLE COLLECTION OF ORIENTALIST PAINTINGS EVER TO BE AUCTIONED IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Bonhams, one of the world's oldest and largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques, will provide art enthusiasts with the opportunity to view and purchase museum quality 19th and 20th Century Orientalist works of art at their upcoming Dubai auction on 13th May. The collection will showcase masterpieces from renowned European and American artists including Edwin Lord Weeks, Rudolf Ernst and José Tapiro y Baro with value tags ranging from $3,000 to $1,500,000. Highlights from the sale will be available for preview in London, Abu Dhabi and Dubai prior to the sale.

“The May sale will represent the most valuable collection of Orientalist paintings ever offered at auction in the Middle East. The total collection is worth approximately $7-11 million. “We are proud to offer collectors the opportunity to share in some truly rare and exquisite Orientalist pieces which symbolize the interchange of cultural ideas throughout our shared history,” says Matthew Girling, Bonhams Chief Executive Officer, Europe and the Middle East.

This sale is unique given the limited number of Orientalist artists and the absence of a dedicated museum collection. Some of the pieces have never been exhibited publically before and one of the highlights of the auction is a magnificent oil by the Orientalist master Rudolf Ernst. Depicting the presentation of a sword to a Pasha, this work radiates the nobility and power that its subject commands and it is a testament to the artist’s skill that we also feel the awe of the Pasha’s presence. The work is estimated at US$800,000 – 1,200,000.

Giles Peppiatt, Director of Orientalist Art at Bonhams commented, “The quality and power of these works cannot be overestimated. This collection is the finest collection of Orientalist pictures to come to the market in my 25 year career.”

Orientalist art is about the Western artists’ perceptions of Arabic life in the 19th and 20th centuries and these artists conquered many logistical and physical challenges to ensure they could present realistic reflections of the Arabic and Bedouin influence. Bonhams have broken new ground by bringing truly original, rare pieces back to their places of origin.

“It is a real pleasure to bring works of art back to the region from which they came and from where the artists’ works were originally inspired. To have them displayed amidst the land and culture that embodies the Middle East places Orientalism into context,” commented Taline Nicole Aynilian Senior Specialist.

www.bonhams.com

 

Friday, March 5th, 2010

Google Earth now features Dubai Bus stops.

Bus stops across Dubai now feature on Google Earth.

The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) have been working with Google Earth to upload bus stops to the website, which offers satellite views of the world.

It will enable users to get ready access to information including the routes passing these stops, bus timings and functionality will include a link with the RTA website to obtain further information if required.

Bus stops in Dubai have undergone major modernisation over the past few years in effort to encourage greater use of the service. All bus stops are now air conditioned, especially essential for the summer months. They are equipped with comfortable seating and are cleaned on a regular basis. Free detailed city maps outlining the routes available and automated time tables outlining any delays services may be experiencing are positioned within the stops.

Using the bus services is still the cheapest way to travel around Dubai. It is possible to purchase a Nol smart card that enables you to pay for use of various RTA services with a single card these services include Dubai Metro, Water buses, buses as well as pay for 'Paid Parking'.

Benefits of Nol Cards:

1. You can travel around Dubai and pay for parking using a single card
2. You no longer need to carry cash or worry about correct change
3. You will enjoy low cost fares and flexible transfers across different modes of transport www.nol.ae

Wojhati or journey planner is an electronic system that enables the public transport users to determine the most accessible transport mode according to the user's location, destination and trip timing. www.wojhati.rta.ae

Do's / Don'ts when using Public Transport services: Do dress respectfully. Do not carry or consume alcohol. Do behave responsibly. Do not display any outward signs of affection. Do not take photographs of local people. Do not eat/drink during Holy Month of Ramadan.

For further information www.rta.ae

 

Friday, March 5th, 2010

Children who are bullied in school will soon get a little help from three football clubs.

The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children has recruited three local football organisations to help children overcome physical and psychological abuse at school. The organisation is now working with the Libra Football Academy, Al Nasr Football Club and Sharjah Football Club on the venture, which uses the sport as a way to address the issue.

The approach features a new style of football called Soccer 4ce, which uses a process of 'guided discovery' and four-a-side matches to teach children how to get a long, said Adrian John, the director of football at the Libra Academy.

Even top-level professionals, including the Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Sven-Goran Eriksson, the former England manager, and Jose Mourinho, the former Chelsea manager and manager of Inter Milan, reportedly use the techniques to teach their players. "Players are led gently to lessons rather than simply being told what to do", Mr John said.

The Soccer 4ce format was launched at the weekend with 50 boys and girls from Al Nasr's youth teams, the Greenfield Community School, the American University of Sharjah and the Australian International School in Sharjah.

Teachers have noticed that bullying is on the rise in schools, said Ohud al Suwaidi, the foundation's communications director. "Furthermore, local studies have shown that bullies themselves come from an abusive background and violence within their families," she said. "We aim to curb this phenomenon by introducing the children to sports where activities can be more competitive and less oppressive."

The foundation has also launched a pilot programme with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority that aims to get victims of bullying to speak to consultants and social specialists about their experiences.

In January, the Abu Dhabi Education Council introduced a new policy on behaviour and discipline, one that requires all its schools to have procedures that address bullying and its consequences.

www.thenational.ae

 

Friday, February 26th, 2010

Are you brave enough for Macbeth?

Are you ready for a truly wicked experience? Then get ready - it's coming to Dubai soon.

Shakespeare's Macbeth is probably the most feared play in the world, cursed with bad luck throughout history.

England's King James banned it for five years and death and disaster have followed in its footsteps.

This dark and daring play is about a Scottish warrior who is egged on by the prophecies of three witches and an ambitious wife to murder his way to the throne.

The drama is full of spooky spells which are better than anything Harry Potter and his friends could magic up.

There are bloody battles, gruesome ghosts and even a forest which moves. Plus local boys who have proved they have got star quality will be taking it in turns to appear with the fantastic British cast to play the son of Macduff. There is laughter too, with a funny porter who tells knock knock jokes.

Macbeth scared a king. Are you brave enough to see it?

If you are, you're guaranteed to enjoy the white-knuckle rollercoaster experience. Lydia Conway of the London Evening Standard described S4K's last production of Shakespeare 4 Kidz Macbeth as "One of the most exciting versions of the Scottish play (either for adults or for children) that this ex-theatre editor has ever seen."

This exciting show is presented by the UK's much-loved Shakespeare 4 Kidz who know exactly how to make Shakespeare a favourite with all ages. It's been a huge 5 star hit for its national tour at home, with parents, pupils and the press unanimous in their praise.

S4K's plays use the most famous quotes from the original texts, weave them into modern language, add some songs and dances into the mix and the result is a two hour entertainment which everyone - even the youngest primary kids - can understand.

Macbeth the Musical is at DUCTAC for just ten shows: special school performances are at 8.45am and 11.45 am Monday to Thursday March 15 to 18 and public shows are at 2pm and 5.30pm on Friday March 19. Book now as tickets are selling fast!

5 reasons to see Macbeth

1.The story.
Macbeth is a brilliant story about a Scottish warrior who meets three witches and finds out his destiny is to become king of Scotland. But before he can get to the throne he must murder the men who stand in his way, aided and abetted by his evil wife. All the characters are included in this full-scale version.

2. The creativity.
This musical adaptation features lots of great songs and dances from the vibrant cast of professional performers plus some stunning sword fights.

3. The atmosphere.
The show features weird witches, gory ghosts, bloody battles and even a forest which moves. There's lots of rumbling thunder and a parade of spooky apparitions as Macbeth learns his future from the gruesome threesome.

4. The cast
The 14-stong cast and live musicians make this an exciting show. Richard Munday is a mesmerising Macbeth with a fantastic voice which fans all over the world have enjoyed when he has performed with the 12 Tenors. And have a giggle with Noel Andrew Harron as the funny, joke-telling porter.

5. The edu-tainment value

Writers Julian Chenery (director) and Matt Gimblett have cleverly laced the most famous of Shakespeare's lines (like "Is this a dagger which I see before me?" and "Something wicked this way comes") into modern language so the story is easy to understand for audiences of all ages. S4K hope this production will demystify the Bard and whet everyone's appetite to go on and study this and other Shakespeare plays in greater depth.

Richard is born to be king, West End star takes Macbeth'S crown

International singing sensation and West End star Richard Munday has been signed to take the title role of Macbeth when the Shakespeare 4 Kidz musical visits Dubai.

Richard, aged 31, is a member of the acclaimed Twelve Tenors line-up which has fans all over the world. He was born in South Wales, and like many of his countrymen, Richard is blessed with a fine voice.

The Twelve Tenors are a talented group of Europe's finest singers who perform some of the greatest music of the 20th century from opera to pop, swing and numbers from the shows.

Richard will be singing in English for his role as the bloodthirsty Scottish warrior Macbeth. But as a member of the Twelve Tenors he sings in Spanish, Italian, French, German and even Chinese.

Richard's previous Shakespeare credits include a raunchy leather-clad Tybalt in a tour of Romeo and Juliet, which saw him riding on to the stage on a flash Honda Fireblade motorbike, and the love-struck Prince Ferdinand (also for S4K) in The Tempest.

He takes over Macbeth's crown from Jason Lee Scott, who toured with the show in the UK. And by a quirk of Fate, both actors have played ragamuffin twin Mickey in London's long-running musical Blood Brothers.

Macbeth is a play about a man so ambitious that he cannot resist the prophecies of three witches that he will become King of Scotland. Urged on by his evil wife, he murders those who stand between him and the throne.

Over the years Shakespeare's most bloody tragedy has gained a reputation of being an unlucky play and productions are often jinxed by misfortune. Even S4K's UK tour had a glitch on Friday 13th (the most unlucky day in the British calendar) when a piece of technical equipment caused a theatre fire alarm to go off and the matinee audience had to be evacuated mid-performance.

Is Richard worried about the curse of the play? "I'm trying not to be superstitious about it. I hope to bring good luck to the Gulf," he said.

Macbeth Q&A with Julian Chenery (creator of S4K'S plays)

Q: What excites you most about Macbeth as a play for kids?

A: It's very exciting. There's something for young boys (particularly the soldiers and sword fighting with the clang of steel on steel) and girls, who love the witches, spells and Lady Macbeth manipulating her husband. Macbeth is also a play which can be enjoyed on many levels. It allows people to give their own answers to the questions of what is good and what is bad and to what extent we are responsible for our own actions. Can things we do which we think are good ever bad and vice versa?

Q: Directors are always striving to do original things with Shakespeare's play. What's different about your production?

A: Everyone can understand it! That is our signature style. Musical theatre style is such a popular style of theatre. It lends itself superbly to the stories from Shakespeare and can be enjoyed young and old alike.

Q: Is it very Scottish?
A: The story is based on the original Scottish king and we have chosen to set it in the correct historical period of the 11th century when life was rough and tough with power struggles between men vying to be king. Celtic influence runs through the story to add flavour to the setting, with Celtic dance and patriotic song, but we do not use Scottish accents.

Q: How have you made it scary AND fun?

A: One of our styles is always to tell stories framed in humour. The tragedy of Macbeth has many scary supernatural elements with witches and ghosts and bloody battles but we have a very funny scene featuring a drunken porter which audiences love.

Q: How many are in the company?

A: S4K has a full cast of 14 actors with two professional musicians who play the score live. We use our own technical crew for sound and lighting, bringing the company up to 22.

Q: What to you most hope your audiences will take away with them from an S4K show?
A: The beginning of a lifelong love of live theatre and Shakespeare's work.

Q: What has been you proudest moment as founder of S4K?

A: Proving that Hamlet, probably the most complex play of all time, can be understood and enjoyed by children of all ages the world over.

Q: If you had to sit down and adapt another Shakespeare play tomorrow which one would it be and why?

A: Much Ado About Nothing - because I am certain to be working on a film script of it soon and I love the battle of the sexes which it embodies.
Q: Which is your favourite Shakespeare play? Who is your favourite character? What is your favourite quote?

A: A Midsummer Night's Dream. Bottom (in The Dream). To thine own self be true. (Polonius, in Hamlet).

 

Friday, February 26th, 2010

Dubai - Tennis Tournament of the Year

The Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships is celebrating yet another success after being named the 2009 ATP World Tour 500 Tournament of the Year.

Dubai saw aside competition from tournaments in Barcelona, Washington DC, Beijing, Tokyo and Basel to win the award.

Brad Drewett, CEO, ATP International flew in especially earlier this week to present Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free, with the prestigious award.

The Championships acclaimed its ATP status prior to last year's tournament, and the announcement of the award is even more impressive given that this was the Championships' debut year with the 500 points status. Remarkably, it is also the tournament's 14th ATP award since 1993 - the tournament's inaugural year - and the sixth time that the Dubai men's week has won the prestigious 'Tournament of the Year' award.

"The Barclays Dubai Tennis Championship has proven over the last 18 years to be one of the best events on the ATP World Tour having won this award numerous times." said Brad Drewett, CEO, ATP International.

"Its ongoing popularity is a testament to the hard-working tournament staff who have created a successful tournament that the best players in the world love to participate in," he added.

"On behalf of the ATP, I congratulate Dubai on winning the ATP World Tour 500 Tournament of the Year and wish them even continued success for the future".

The award is yet another on an increasingly-clustered mantelpiece for the Championships, which began life as the ATP Dubai Men's Open back in 1993 when Karel Novacek was crowned the first winner.

Colm Mcloughlin, who was instrumental in bringing tennis to Dubai, was delighted to receive the award, and receive it on such a timely occasion.

"As the owners and organisers of the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, we are delighted to have won the ATP World Tour 500 Tournament of the Year award," said McLoughlin.

"The ATP 500 events include some of the best tournaments in the world, so it is gratifying to know that all of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes has been acknowledged by the ATP players and officials.

This year we celebrate the 18th anniversary of the ATP week and this award is especially appreciated as we mark the tournament's 'coming of age".

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, features the WTA final between Venus Williams and Victoria Azarenka on February 20th, and continues with the ATP tournament from February 22nd.

 

Saturday, February 20th, 2010

Why Should I have my Animal Spayed/neutered?

First of all, because it is adding to your pet's health. If dogs are spayed before their first heat it reduces their chances of obtaining mammary gland cancer to "0", they will not be able to develop ovary cancer and can not develop uterine infections or diabetes. These are 4 major medical reasons to spay your dog at an early age. Exceptions to this early spay advise are bitches with docked tails, since it enhances their chance of urine incontinence. Those dogs normally are advised to be spayed at an age of 2 years old.

Cats just have unbearable behavior when on heat and spaying them adds to the quality of you and your cat's interaction. Cats can be given the "cat-pill" or the same by injection, which clears this behavior. It is however known that this type of medication can cause massive overreaction of the mammary glands, causing "Dolly Parton" syndrome, after which spaying will have to be done but also the mammary glands will need surgical correction.

Female rabbits which have not been spayed tend to be very aggressive and do not function well as kid huggebles. Spaying them keeps them in a pleasant and non aggressive mood.

You will also have to realize that breeding is a natural gift. However with the breeds that we have created and call Pedigrees we have created difficulties for some breeds to deliver naturally. Even if you read up on pet breeding you still have a change to lot of problems during and soon after parturition and chance is that you can loose your own pet and possibly the litter as well. This can also leave you with high and un-expected costs. Castration of male pets (dogs or cats) prevents them from wandering around in search of a female and without "testosterone" they are more docile and pleasant. Neutered cats tend to be in less fights, taking away their chances of obtaining (sexual or bite related) transmissible diseases like cat aids (FIV or FeLV). Due to their better attitude you will find they are less often wounded and are less likely to have abscess formation. Spayed or neutered pets tend to roam less and hence are less prone to car accidents or
other. Neutered male dogs are prevented from obtaining prostate problems like hyperplasia (enlargement) or even prostate cancer.

Second to this is the moral obligation towards your own neighborhood, As the number of unwanted pets grows every year, animal shelters are filled to capacity with dogs and cats that have no other place to go. Each new litter born only lessens the chance for any of these animals finding permanent, loving homes. Funding for animal shelters is limited, and donations are frequently relied on to keep the doors open, but in uncertain economic times donation levels drop, leaving the shelters in a precarious position. With all this in mind, it's easy to understand why it's more important than ever for owners to carefully consider whether or not their pets should be allowed to breed. Ask yourself the following questions: Are you sure you will have homes waiting for the pups/kittens? and Are you willing and financially/physically able to keep each pup/kitten that doesn't find a permanent home?

These are tough issues that deserve careful consideration before forging ahead with a
breeding. But that are only the moral reasons.

Read more about pet care here

 

Friday, February 19th, 2010

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The 2nd annual Emirates Airlines Festival of Literature will take place March 10th - 13th 2010 at The Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City.

This year's cast is made up of more than 80 bestselling authors from various literacy fields spanning biographies, travel writing to business and self improvement and of course a huge children section.

The festival will provide author sessions, workshops and entertainment for adults and children.

A range of workshops will provide expert guidance for adults in creative writing, drama and translation. Children also will be able to partake in creative writing, drama and illustration workshops.

A Fringe Festival will run alongside this exciting event and will act as a platform for Dubai's young writers and performers to showcase their talent.

A series of Education Day events will be hosted by the authors and schools from all across the Emirates are invited to attend.

Speaking of the wonderful events lined up for the 2010 Festival, Saeed Al Naboudah, Chief Projects Officer, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said: "The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature involves the entire community and is an opportunity to understand the minds behind many of the books we have enjoyed reading and an occasion to celebrate the uniting spirit of literature. The event also encourages young aspiring writers and performers to showcase their talent and receive feedback on their skills from established authors and artists We need to talk about our mandate to establish Dubai as a 'reading city' through the promotion of the public libraries & the role of the Authority in creating an environment in which culture & arts thrives and is accessible to all."

For further information and event timings visit www.emirateslitfest.com

 

Saturday, February 13th, 2010

Dubai Strikes Oil

Dubai's government announced it has discovered a new offshore oil field. The find 70 km off the coast is the first such find by the city-state in decades.

Details of the size of the oil field or preliminary estimates of its production capacity are awaited.

The timely discovery will it hopes boost the economic capabilities of the state.

The UAE has the world's 5th largest proven oil reserves and is the world's 3rd largest oil exporter although the vast majority of the nation's reserves are held off the coast of Abu Dhabi, the federal capital of the country.

The UAE also has 6 trillion cubic meters of gas reserves rating it 6th in the world after Qatar, Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Dubai's oil reserves previously expected to run out in 20 years lie mainly in four off shore fields being first discovered in 1966 with the first production in 1969. Oil is very often described as the underlying factor in the rag to riches history of the UAE.

 

Friday, February 12th, 2010

US Open Champion set for debut in Dubai.

Del Potro looks to make inroads during first appearance at ATP 500 event.

Dubai, UAE, February 10th, 2010: One of the brightest young stars in the tennis world will make his debut at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships later this month.

Juan Martin Del Potro stunned everyone last September when he battled his way through the draw at the US Open and then claimed an upset victory over world number one Roger Federer to lift the trophy at Flushing Meadows. Now the 21-year old Argentine is set to electrify his many fans on centre court at the Dubai Tennis Stadium as he bids to add another title to his growing portfolio.

However, his US Open triumph was not the only success that Del Potro has enjoyed in his still-short career. In 2008 he finished the season as the youngest player in the top 10 after reaching five finals and winning four titles, and he helped Argentina to the Davis Cup final against Spain. Then, last year he once again ended the year as the youngest player in the top 10, earning a personal-best ranking of number five in the world.

In addition to sweeping aside all opposition to win the US Open, he won titles in Auckland and Washington, before reaching the final of the Barclays ATP World Finals in London where he fell to Nikolay Davydenko. It was in New York City that he made history, however, becoming the first player to beat Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in a Grand Slam tournament and becoming the first Argentine to capture the US Open since Guillermo Vilas in 1977.

Del Potro has also begun 2010 in the same rich vein of form, that suggests he will be a strong challenger for the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships title, despite having to face a field that includes Australian Open champion Roger Federer and runner-up Andy Murray, 2008 Dubai winner Andy Roddick, Dubai defending champion Novak Djokovic and Barclays ATP World Tour Finals winner Nikolay Davydenko.

As a warm-up for that challenge, in Melbourne he demonstrated his staying power by outlasting James Blake in the second round of the Australian Open, winning 10-8 in the fifth set. That match stretched to 62 games, the most played in the tournament, and he went on to reach the fourth round before finally going down in five sets to Croat Marin Cilic.

Despite everything else he has achieved, it was the US Open that made Del Potro's name, and he is hoping that a similar big-city environment that he says exists in both New York City and Dubai will provide him with the same motivation and luck.

"I know it's a great tournament, great city", he said of Dubai.

"It has tall buildings like Manhattan, so just maybe the setting will mean I can play similar tennis in Dubai as I did in New York", he added.

"Both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have won the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships in recent years, but Juan Martin Del Potro has shown that he can beat both players. He has also never lost to our 2008 champion, Andy Roddick", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"Standing at nearly two metres tall he is an intimidating opponent for anyone, and his record against the very best players in the world will make him a strong contender to become the first player from South America to win here".

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Thursday, February 11th, 2010

Reigning Champions Return to Defend Dubai Titles

Williams and Djokovic determined not to become one hit wonders in Dubai.

Dubai, UAE, February 8th, 2010: Reigning champions Venus Williams and Novak Djokovic are looking forward to the challenge they will face when they return to Dubai this month to defend their titles at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships.

The region's leading tennis event not only offers an incredible $4 million in prize money but almost every top player in the world, so both know they will have to once again overcome the best there is if they are to repeat their 2009 successes.

Both players' confidence levels have been boosted by a great start to the season, with both blazing their way to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open and Djokovic rising to number two on the increasingly-tight ATP World Tour rankings.

These successes build upon the terrific season they both enjoyed last year, with Williams winning in Acapulco the week after her triumph in Dubai, reaching the semi-finals in Miami and Rome, and the finals of Wimbledon, Stanford and the Sony Ericsson Championships in Doha. During the season she overcame opponents including reigning Dubai champion Elena Dementieva and then sister Serena to reach the final in Dubai, world number one Dinara Safina at Wimbledon, Dementieva again in Stanford, and Svetlana Kuznetsova and Jelena Jankovic in nearby Doha.

"I think they do an excellent job with the tournament", said Williams. They really do care about running a great event and they care about the players. There is a difference here in Dubai. You enjoy the tournament and that makes you want to come back", she added.

"It is a real privilege to have Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams returning to the Dubai Tennis Stadium to defend their titles", said Salah Tahlak, Tournament Director.

"We have seen the level of tennis both players offer the Championships, and have continued right through to the present with some impressive form so far this year. This will stand both players in good stead to have further success here at the 2010 Championships", added Tahlak.

Djokovic also had a great 2009, finishing as world number three for the third consecutive year. He reached an amazing 10 finals in the season, winning five titles, in Belgrade, Beijing, Basel and Paris, in addition to Dubai, before reaching the finals in Miami, Monte Carlo, Rome, Halle and Cincinnati. The Serb won more matches than any other player, earning 78 wins in his 97 matches, and his top-10 scalps included Roger Federer in Miami, Rome and Basel, Gilles Simon in the Dubai semi-finals and in Cincinnati and Shanghai, Juan Martin Del Potro in Rome, Rafael Nadal in Cincinnati, the Paris Masters and London, Fernando Verdasco in Monte Carlo, at the US Open and Beijing, and Robin Soderling in Beijing and at the Paris Masters.

"Last year it (Dubai) was the first title of the year for me and it was very special because I had a lot of support", said Djokovic.

"Every time I come back I just feel like I'm playing at home. A lot of people from my country live and work in Dubai and come to the tennis, and it really feels great if you have people behind you. It's a very fast court and suitable for my game too, so I am really looking forward to coming back again".

Both Williams and Novak Djokovic will have to be at their best as they battle a field that is second to none. Williams will have to survive a draw that includes the entire top 10, and Djokovic will be up against four-time former champion Roger Federer, 2008 winner Andy Roddick, Andy Murray, US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro and Barclays ATP World Tour winner Nikolay Davydenko.

"So far, only Roger Federer and Justine Henin have managed to successfully defend their titles here, so Venus Williams and Novak Djokovic know that they will face a formidable task", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"Both have shown time and time again that they can beat anybody they face, so we can expect to see some fantastic battles as they fight to preserve their crowns at the Dubai Tennis Stadium".

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Friday, February 5th, 2010

Roddick Looks for "Shot at the Best Players" to Reclaim Trophy in Dubai

2008 Men's Champion looks to prize back mantle from Djokovic. Dubai, UAE, February 4th, 2010: Andy Roddick is ready and determined to win back the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships trophy he claimed two years ago by beating Feliciano Lopez of Spain. The All-American, who played one of the most memorable Grand Slam matches of all time when he stretched Roger Federer to the limit in the 2009 Wimbledon final, was unable to defend his title here last year. But his early season form in 2010 has sent out a warning to Federer, defending champion Novak Djokovic and everyone else that he can reclaim his crown at the Dubai Tennis Stadium.

The 27-year-old won the title in Memphis last year and, as well as competing in that wonderful Wimbledon final, he finished as runner-up in both Doha and Washington. But his season was cut short by an injury to his left knee. After a dramatic 7-6 in the fifth set defeat by John Isner in the third round of the US Open he lost easily to 143rd-ranked Kubot Lukasz in the first round in Beijing and then retired in the opening set against Stanislas Wawrinka in Shanghai.

The injury that had hindered him for weeks finally ended his season, and although he qualified for the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London he could only attend as a spectator.

That disappointment, however, is behind Roddick now and he is back to top form, as he showed by lifting the title at the Brisbane International in the opening week of January, before advancing to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.

Now he is ready to launch his bid to recapture his Dubai title, knowing that he will have to test himself against many of the best players in the world. Standing in his way will be four-time winner and world number one Roger Federer, reigning champion Novak Djokovic, Australian Open runner-up Andy Murray, US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro and Barclays ATP World Tour title-holder Nikolay Davydenko.

Nevertheless, the strength of the opposition he faces at the Dubai Tennis Stadium is a major motivating factor for Roddick, as he revealed after he lifted the trophy in 2008. "A Big part of my decision to come here was to try to get a shot at the top players and I was able to do that, and success here has shown it was a good idea", he said. Aside from winning his 23rd career title, Roddick's first visit to Dubai was memorable for other reasons.

"I've heard some wonderful reports about Dubai and based on what I have seen, the city is beyond my wildest expectations", Roddick said after a trip to the famous Mina A' Salam, part of Madinat Jumeirah's Arabian Resort.

"I've always wanted to come to this part of the world and I am certainly glad I came here and enjoyed some of the sites and warm hospitality. I really enjoy learning from different cultures and visiting new places and coming to Dubai was a great experience".

Roddick was overwhelmed by his stay at the world famous Burj Al Arab hotel. "That hotel, I don't know how to describe it. It's just amazing. It's almost like you are not in reality - it is like another universe. It was pretty fun and something I'll remember. They gave me a little note that said 'Congratulations Andy' every night and they gave me a big bouquet of flowers every night. So my room looked like Valentine's Day" he added.

The Championships, which begins with the Women's Open on Valentines Day itself this year, is delighted to be welcoming back one of the game's most recognisable faces.

"Andy Roddick is one of the most difficult players in the world to beat, as he showed with his magnificent performance against Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"His achievement in winning the title here two years ago also captured the imagination of tennis fans both in Dubai and around the world, and it gives me great pleasure to welcome him back".

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

French flair set to continue at Dubai Tennis Championships

Cast of French stars look to replicate glory of Golmard, Santoro and Mauresmo in Dubai

Dubai, UAE, January 25th, 2010: French flair has played a leading role at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships ever since Fabrice Santoro reached the very first final back in 1993. Even though he lost to Czech Karel Novacek on that occasion, the player nicknamed 'The Magician' is still at the top of his game 10 years later as he claimed the title with victory over Younes El Aynaoui.

As well as winning the singles title in 2002, Santoro also took away two doubles crowns, in 2004 with partner Mahesh Bhupathi and in 2007 with Nenad Zimonjic. Other former French champions were Jerome Golmard, who won the men's title in 1999 and Amelie Mauresmo, the second winner of the women's title in 2002.

Yet another French name was almost engraved on the Women's Open trophy last year when Virgine Razzano swept all the way to the final before her spectacular run was ended by Venus Williams.

Razzano will be back this year, hoping to repeat last year's form that saw her defeat Kateryna Bondarenko, world number two Dinara Safina in straight sets, Daniela Hantuchova, world number five Vera Zvonareva also in straight sets, and Kaia Kanepi.

"This week has been the best week of my career", said Razzano after facing Williams in the final. "I think I played well again and I felt a good connection with the crowd. The crowd warmed to me and that was great."

Marion Bartoli is also back to make a bid for the title after a disappointing end to her 2009 campaign here when she was forced to retire in the third round against Vera Zvonareva because of blisters on her feet. She went on to have a successful season, following up her earlier run to the final in Brisbane by winning in Monterrey and again in Stanford, where she beat Venus Williams in the final. Bartoli then closed out the season by reaching the final of the Tournament of Champions in Bali where injury again intervened and forced her to retire after the opening set.
Her opponent in that final was compatriot Aravane Rezai, who enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2009 by reaching the Auckland semi-finals and then claiming her first career title in Strasbourg. After closing out the year by winning in Bali she got off to a great start this year, reaching the semi-finals in Sydney.

"I've no doubt Aravane Rezai will draw a great deal of attention here in Dubai, as she is now one of the best young players in the world and one in the draw to really watch out for", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"In addition to Rezai, we are pleased to welcome back both Marion Bartoli, who enjoyed such a fine 2009 season, and Virginie Razzano who surprised us all with her progress to the final here last year".

Trying to match the success of Santoro and Golmard at the ATP event will be Gilles Simon and Julien Benneteau.

It was Simon who defeated Santoro in the legend's last appearance here in the 2009 quarter-finals. Later in 2009, he won the Bangkok title before finishing the season well with a quarter-final berth in Shanghai and a semi-final in Lyon. "The French have a long history of success at the Dubai Tennis Stadium, and with so many returning this year we can look forward to them challenging for yet another title here", added McLoughlin.

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Monday, January 25th, 2010

Dubai Shopping Festival 2010

The 15th annual Dubai Shopping Festival will run from 28th January until 28th February, 2010.

The DSF began in February 1996 as a retail event to revitalise the retail trade in Dubai. It has over the years grown to now also represent a huge tourist attraction.

The 2010 DSF aims to promote the event as one of the leading shopping festivals and family entertainment events in the world. It will offers fashions shows, entertainment and other attractions such as fireworks, art exhibitions and musical extravaganzas. However, the main attraction still lies with shopping, with visitors being offered dramatic discounts on a very wide range of goods, ranging from fashion to jewellery to electrical goods to furniture and much more.

The DSF involves the participation of more than 6000 retail outlets and 50 shopping malls in or around Dubai. This year upwards of 3 million visitors are expected to visit the DSF which is run under the auspices of Dubai Tourism, Commerce and Marketing.

During the DSF, the malls will remain open from 9am until 12 midnight daily and from 2pm until 12midnight at weekends.

For further information and store participation visit

Dubai Shopping Festival

Dubai Summer Surprises, a similar event is run during the summer months. 17th June – 7th August 2010

Sunday, January 24th, 2010

Slovak Star looking to raise her game in Dubai

Former World Number 5 hopes to recapture form of old in Dubai

Daniela Hantuchova will be hoping that a successful run at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships next month will help restore her to the top of the game.

The Slovak star, who has appeared in the glossy pages of Vogue amongst countless other fashion and glamour magazines, is still going strong after more than a decade on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. The height of her career was when she reached World Number 5 in both singles and doubles. However, since 2007 Hantuchova has failed to end the season ranked in the top 10.
In 2008, she reached the semi-finals at the Australian Open, however shortly after she had to withdraw from the Dubai Women's Open with illness. That was the first time she missed the $2 million event since her debut in 2005, when she fell to Serena Williams in the quarter-finals. Hantuchova also had the misfortune of coming up against a highly-ranked opponent in 2006, beaten in the second round by Svetlana Kuznetsova. In 2007 she reached the quarter-finals once again before losing to former world number one Amelie Mauresmo, and in 2009 she conceded her third round match in three sets to eventual finalist Virginie Razzano.

Although the Slovakian failed to reach a final in 2009, she enjoyed a successful season in reaching the semi-finals at Warsaw, in addition to an impressive tally of six quarter-finals. Several of Hantuchova's defeats came against top opposition, with defeat against eventual champion Caroline Wozniacki in Ponte Vedra Beach. Dinara Safina outlasted her in three sets at Hertogenbosch before Elena Dementieva got the better of her in Stanford. It took Serena Williams to halt her runs at both Wimbledon and the US Open.

Recently, Hantuchova has been working closely with Darren Cahill in particular, who worked with Andre Agassi prior to his retirement. The work with Cahill, Hantuchova cited as a very positive experience.

'"It's such an honour for me to be on the court with somebody such as Darren", she said.
"I've appreciated it a lot. I've been on the tour for 10 or 11 years so there are not too many new things to learn, but with him I feel like I'm improving every single day".

Despite her confidence and a positive start to the season, Hantuchova will face a formidable task when she begins her bid for the Dubai title. Every member of the world's top 10 will be lining up to deny her, including Serena and Venus Williams, Elena Dementieva, Dinara Safina and Svetlana Kuznetsova.

"Daniela Hantuchova has enjoyed a very successful career and it is clear that she is still capable of challenging the very best", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"The opposition she faces here at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships will be second to none, but it would be foolish to write off her chances of winning one of the most sought-after titles on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour".

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

Strong Eastern European Contingent for Championships

The elite of Eastern European tennis will flood into Dubai next month, in greater numbers than ever before, to compete at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships.

It has been a number of years since players from the United States dominated the rankings, and now an astonishing 26 WTA players from Eastern European nations are set to compete for the $2 million prize money when play gets underway at the Dubai Tennis Stadium on 14th February. An additional minimum of nine men from Eastern Europe will appear in the main draw of the Dubai ATP tournament.

The countries that have emerged as a major force in the women's game include Slovakia, to be represented by Daniela Hantuchova, Dominika Cibulkova and Magdalena Rybarikova, Serbia with Jelena Jankovic and Ana Ivanovic, Victoria Azarenka and Olga Govortsova from Belarus. Ukraine is represented by the Bondarenko sisters, Alona and Kateryna, and Czech Republic by Iveta Benesova and Lucie Safarova. Add Poland, Kazakhstan, Slovenia, Hungary and Romania, and it is clear to see where the dominance in the women's game currently lies.

By far the most dominant country is Russia, with no fewer than nine players entered in the Women's main draw in Dubai. When the Australian Open began, there were an amazing six Eastern Europeans ranked in the top 20 and three in the top five. Every one of those in the top five will be serious contenders to carry away one of the most prestigious titles on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.

Dinara Safina has come far since she had to qualify for the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships in 2003, reaching no less than three Grand Slam finals and rising to number one in the world. However, she is still looking to make an impact in Dubai, with a record of only one win in three visits.

Two-time Grand Slam champion Svetlana Kuznetsova has done better in Dubai, defeating Venus Williams in 2004 before losing to Justine Henin in the final, advancing to the final again in 2008 before falling to Elena Dementieva. She also reached the semi-finals in 2006 and 2007.

Dementieva made the most impressive of debuts by walking away with the title in 2008. She followed up that performance in 2009 by reaching the quarter-finals before falling to Venus Williams, who went on to become Dubai champion herself.

There is no definitive answer as to why so many players have emerged from this particular part of the world. At one stage, there was an enormous incentive for players from the eastern bloc to succeed, giving them the rare opportunity to travel outside of their country and compete overseas. Pioneers of the sport from this region at that time, included the Maleeva sisters, Manuela, Katerina and Magdalena, who put Bulgarian tennis on the map by establishing themselves as members of the world's top 10.

Since travel restrictions were lifted, even more stars have emerged from Eastern Europe to dominate the sport - an indication that large numbers of players were waiting to emerge who were previously unable to do so. The success of tennis in Russia was also given a huge boost by the popularity of Anna Kournikova, with several of today's players praising her for lifting the profile of the game in Russia. Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin was also a keen player and spectator, helping to inspire many of his compatriots to take up tennis.

Alona Bondarenko, who recently won the Hobart tournament said, "We see it as exciting. Tennis is everywhere on television now and every parent wants their child to play - it never used to be like that. They see the game on TV, like what they see and then want to play.

"My sister and I didn't have a choice because our mother was a coach. We started at four or five years old and were on the court all the time" she added.


Despite the lingering difficulty in growing the game in some areas, with such a strong presence from Eastern Europe players there remains a strong chance that the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2010 will offer another champion from the region.

"To have so many world-class players from Eastern Europe here is astonishing", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"Many years ago this was unheard of, but now it is expected that players from Eastern European countries will be firmly in the mix", he added.

"Elena Dementieva is our most recent champion from that part of the world, and it will be very interesting to see who can follow in her footsteps."

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Monday, January 18th, 2010

Tickets for Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships go on Sale

Fans urged to purchase tickets fast for chance to catch Federer and co.

Dubai, UAE, January 9th, 2010: The chance to see all 10 of the world's top 10 women and seven of the top 10 men at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships next month means tickets are likely to be in high demand when they go on sale tomorrow (Sunday, 10th January) at the Dubai Tennis Stadium Box Office in Garhoud. The Box Office will open from 10am to 9pm daily.

Tickets can also be purchased from 10am on Sunday on Time Out Tickets online at www.timeouttickets.com

"Tickets usually sell exceptionally quickly for the final days of the tournament, but it is worth noting that all of the top players can be seen in the early rounds of the tournament so there are plenty of opportunities to catch the top players in action. This year, which sees us celebrate our 18th Men's Open and 10th Women's Open, we have our strongest-ever lineup, with Roger Federer looking for his fifth Dubai title and Serena Williams leading the charge in the women's draw", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

"If you look below the top 10 in the women's field, the draw continues to impress - Ana Ivanovic, Marion Bartoli and last year's finalist Virginie Razzano all feature to give the tournament a remarkable 18 out of the world's top 20. It really is testament to the growth of the tournament over the years" he added.

Tickets range in price from 30 AED for the opening rounds to 200 AED for the Finals.
Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd - 27th.

 

Sunday, January 17th, 2010

Federer returns to Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships

"World's best ever player" to head field in region's top tennis spectacle

Dubai, UAE, January 6th, 2010: Normal service is resumed next month when four-time former champion Roger Federer returns to the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships after an injury-forced absence in 2009.

The amiable Swiss, claimed by many to be the greatest player of all time and recently crowned ITF World Champion for a fifth time, began last season by suffering his first hard court defeat in a Grand Slam final at the Australian Open, conceding a five-set battle to Spanish arch-rival Rafael Nadal. He was then forced to miss both the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships and a Davis Cup tie against the United States due to a persistent back injury. However, Federer quickly made up for lost time when he returned to action after a six week recuperation, going on to set a series of records that may never be bettered.

The highlight of his season was no doubt his nail-biting five set victory over Andy Roddick in the Wimbledon final that finished 16-14 in the fifth set, in what was surely one of the greatest matches ever played on the lawns of the All England Club. That victory, his sixth Wimbledon title in seven years, not only allowed him to regain the number one ranking that he had surrendered to Nadal, but gave him a record 15th Grand Slam title. That victory followed shortly after his emotional victory at Roland Garros, where at his 11th attempt he finally lifted the trophy to become only the sixth man in history to win all four Grand Slams in a career.

However, after last year's absence in Dubai, the World Number One will be back at the region's leading tennis tournament, to head up the tournament's finest-ever field.

"It's a tremendous pleasure to welcome Roger Federer back to Dubai, a city he enjoys so much, that he has made it his second home", said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free. "We know he will be eager to take back the title he has won here more than any other ATP player and we look forward to watching a champion who is, in my view, the world's best ever player ever", added McLoughlin. Federer is only one of a whole host of star names that will be part of lineup at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships next month, which includes not only seven of the world's top 10 ATP stars, but a sensational 10 of the world's top 10 women too. Serena Williams heads the women's field, looking to eclipse her sister Venus's achievement as winner of the tournament last year.

"The Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships is one of the premier events on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour calendar, and has been a leader in the awarding of equal prize money to women and the establishment of a world-class event for players, fans and the media that features the greatest athletes in the world,” said Stacey Allaster, CEO of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.

"We are very pleased to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this prestigious event, which represents the vision of Colm McLoughlin and the passion and commitment of the Tour's partner Dubai Duty Free to the growth and success of women's professional tennis in the Middle East."

In the men's draw, Novak Djokovic will be eager to defend his title and Britain's Andy Murray will also be in the hunt. ATP World Tour Finalist Juan Martin Del Potro and winner Nikolay Davydenko, ever-popular former Champion Andy Roddick and Jo Wilfried-Tsonga from France make up the top 10 ATP stars competing at the Championships.

However, it is Federer's standing as World Number One that will see him leading the charge and trying to capture his fifth Dubai title. Last year, for the third time in the past four years, Federer reached all four Grand Slam finals in the same year, finishing 2009 as ATP World Tour Champion for the fifth time in six years. He also became only the third player in the history of the ATP Rankings to rank as the year-end number one at least five times, joining Pete Sampras (who won six) and Jimmy Connors (who also won five) at the top of the listings.

Federer is now set to continue his love affair with Dubai, a city he first visited in 2002. Despite his second round loss to Germany's Rainer Schuettler that year, he went on to win the title for the next three years, dropping just four sets in the process. Nadal ended his fine run by beating him in the 2006 final in a close three-set battle, but the Swiss recaptured his crown in 2007 with victory over Russian Mikhail Youzhny.

And the 28-year-old enjoys Dubai so much that he has long been a part-time resident, enjoying the weather and amenities available as well as being able to get away from the inevitable distractions that exist at home in Switzerland.

"I spend about two to three months of the year here in Dubai" he said. When I want to practise I usually do it here. The climate is good and the conditions are very nice. I tend to organise a couple of juniors to come out here and help me with my practice. That was how I got to know Dubai, about four years ago. I made my first trip here when I came for a vacation after my second Wimbledon victory.

"The practice facilities are good, as is the weather. It's also quieter here than in Switzerland, where everything is a bit more complicated for me. I have no distractions here, and it's just a good feeling for me to practice here", he added.

Without a title in Dubai since 2007, Federer is determined to once again lift the magnificent dhow trophy at this year's Championships, which promises to be the best yet.

Play at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, which is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, begins on Sunday, February 14th, 2010 with the WTA Tour event and continues with the ATP tournament from Monday, February 22nd to 27th.

 

Sunday, January 3rd, 2010

Burj Dubai, Officially opens in January 2010

Burj Dubai, the world's tallest tower will officially open on January 4th 2010. Its opening will coincide with the 4th anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum taking power as Ruler of Dubai.

Lavish celebrations are planned to mark this event.

The Burj Dubai is set in a 2km sq development called 'Downtown Burj Dubai', is fast earning a reputation of being the Gulf regions most prestigious urban development.

Burj Tower owned by Emaar Properties and designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is being built by a South Korean Company Samsung Engineering & Construction in a joint venture with Arabtec from the UAE and Besix from Belgium.

The triple lobed footprint of the building is based on an abstract flower native to the region…. HYMENOCALLIS. At the top, the central core merges and is sculptured to form a finishing spire. This spire can be seen from 95 km away.

Burj Dubai will have a residential and commercial function and will house the regions first Armani Hotel. Its interior will boast double decker elevators and the top with have a public observation deck and a private club above that.

For further information www.burjdubai.com

 

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

Christmas Cheer in Dubai

Even though Islam is the widely practiced religion in the UAE, most other faiths are acknowledged and facilitated. And so Christmas is celebrated, maybe not with all the pomp and glory one might expect from a western Christmas but in a way with a lot less fuss and more time to relax with family and friends.

With normal Christmas Day temperatures of 28-32 C chilling to 18- 22 C in the evenings, there is indeed little chance of snow. It has been known to rain on Christmas Day though..... For those who fancy spending some time on the slopes at Christmas make your way to Ski Dubai www.skidxb.com

Locally owned companies work through the Christmas period - banks, airlines etc and it may be necessary to take an annual leave day to ensure a day with your family. International companies tend to work the hours of the UK/US counterparts.

It is possible to do your Christmas shopping on Christmas morning! All shopping malls are opened normal working hours and as for last minute food items supermarkets are also open.

Christmas decorations are readily available. Fresh Christmas trees are also available, but do not have longevity partly due to the journey getting here and to the air conditioning variables experienced whilst adorning our homes. Outdoor decorating is acceptable. Shopping Malls and hotels are beautifully decorated, shopping malls generally from December 1st and hotels usually one week before Christmas. Background Christmas music lends itself to creating a festive atmosphere.

All hotels offer festive fayre scrumptious brunches, carols around the Christmas tree. You can even order your hotel cooked Christmas dinner to enjoy in the comfort of your own dining room.

Visit Santa's grotto at various locations across Dubai from beginning of December. He makes an appearance at many of the school fairs held during December. He can be found in the Wafi Shopping Mall www.wafi.com where there is an amazing themed grotto. This year it is Charlie & The Chocolate Factory. Santa can also be found in his near natural habitat in Ski Dubai www.skidxb.com and in true extreme he will visit the desert on December 18th courtesy of The Dubai Irish Society. www.irishsocietydubai.com

Christmas services are held in the many churches throughout Dubai www.mymovedubai.com/my-living/religion-and-culture/religion-and-culture-detail . These services are very well attended and arriving early to secure a seat is highly advisable.

New Year is once again party time in Dubai with many lavish events organised to greet 2010. www.timeoutdubai.com

Remember when partying, do not consume alcohol and drive….

Merry Christmas, from the MyMove Dubai Team.

 

Sunday, December 6th, 2009

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Dec 9th to 16th 2009

December 9th sees the start of the 6th Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF). This week long event has on offer 170 culturally diverse films from 55 countries providing movies for all tastes and ages.

DIFF is the leading film festival in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
Established in December 2004, it continues to serve as a premiere showcase for Arab Cinema while also contributing to the development and growth of the regional industry.

DIFF has also extended its platform to present and recognise excellence in cinema from countries in Asia and Africa.

The festival has left an indelible impression on its guests, professionals and viewers through its events, workshops, seminars and principal mandate of presenting the finest selection of film from all over the world.

For schedule and ticketing www.dubaifilmfestival.com

 

Monday, November 30th, 2009

Al Taresh strengthens PRO services

Al Taresh, the complete PRO solutions provider based in Dubai, announced that it has improved its capabilities to better serve the needs of companies looking for fast and foolproof services. As the corporate world is steering out of the dreaded economic meltdown, Al Taresh aims to make their way easier by providing vital PRO support.

Al Taresh has long been trusted for its commitment and efficiency in the field by multinationals as well as local corporate houses operating in the region. The company's policy to customize contracts in accordance with customer needs gives its clients the advantage of optimum flexibility. Al Taresh is also preferred for the higher levels of confidentiality and privacy it offers in all its operations.

Run by a dedicated team of UAE nationals in the know, Al Taresh takes care of the entire range of PRO requirements companies seek from offices such as Naturalization & Residency Administration, Department of Economic Development, Department of Health & Medical Services, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labor, and Dubai Chamber.

"In a market where time is expensive, companies often find meeting PRO requirements a colossal task calling for real time local knowledge, precision handling, and instant access to various government departments," explains an Al Taresh spokesperson, "requisites that we are equipped with."

"We opted not to hire a PRO. We hired a whole PRO company, instead,” a satisfied client of Al Taresh states. By hiring the services of Al Taresh, companies no longer have to employee own PROs and could save on significant amounts in terms of monthly salary and benefits. Thoroughly professional and customer-focused, Al Taresh believes in bringing its services where its clients are. The company has a special division called Messenger Service to materialize this goal.

Under the changing environments, more and more corporate houses, especially start-up companies, are likely to turn the Al Taresh way.

Al taresh

 

Monday, November 30th, 2009

Dubai In Evolution

I thought it would be helpful/interesting to send you a brief note on events in Dubai and comments in the International media. I will provide this in bullet point fashion - as it is easier.

One of the frustrating things about this Region is that the press is 'controlled'. Hence there is a 'positive bias' given on everything - or at least negative stories are painted more glossy. However the Western Press is equally 'corrupted'.
The day Dubai choose to announce the 'standstill request' is interesting. It was the eve of a 10 day UAE Government holiday. AND the day that Dubai successfully raised $5 BILLION from two Abu Dhabi banks. These moneys are unsecured. The ONLY question unanswered in my view is DID AD know or were the told of the 'standstill request' at the time they raised the moneys from the AD banks. If AD did know there is NO chance of Dubai being allowed to default and there is already a support agreement in place.

Dubai is really a 'county' within the COUNTRY of the UAE. The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is one of the RICHEST countries in the world. It has wealth reserves of $ 800 BILLION. It produces 3 million barrels of oil a day - which at $70 per barrel throws off $ 6 billion PER MONTH or $72 billion per annum. Its estimated proven oil reserves would last 60 + years.

So Dubai is the 'Cork or Galway' of the UAE and Abu Dhabi is Dublin. The chances of AD letting Dubai go into default is almost impossible/unfathomable. They are all part of the same country. Not just 'neighbours' (like the UK is to Ireland) as exhaustively suggested on Western TV.

The ENTIRE debt of Dubai is $ 85 billion. The 'announcement' this week is about $ 60 billion of this. This debt is SECURED. There are assets such as the London Stock Exchange, P&O Ports, Barneys of New York and many more assets which support the debt.

To put this in some context, NAMA (courtesy of the Irish Government) will be taking over toxic loans from the Irish banks totalling $ 80 billion. This EXCLUDES what the Irish Government has invested in the banks by way of equity - $15 billion. OR the borrowing taken to fund this years deficit - ANOTHER $20 BILLION in just ONE year. AND this excludes ALL the other debt that the Irish Government has. I can also throw up figures from Spain, Greece and Italy that have a FAR worse Government debt position.

Dubai has many income streams - telecommunication assets ($700 m per annum), hospitality/tourist taxes/income ($ 4 billion per annum), Road tolls/fines ( $ 600 million), oil/gas revenues ( $ 200 million), water/electricity assets ( $ 200 million), land sales (still running at $ 200 million PER MONTH) and many more streams of income. The VALUE of these assets are obviously a multiple of these revenue streams. IF one took a multiple of 10 on Dubai's top ten income streams THE ENTIRE of Dubai's debt could be eliminated.

A 'STANDSTILL' request is NOT a default. It is simply a statement that we would like to more closely match its debt repayment obligations to its income streams. Akin to you going to your local bank manager and saying 'I owe you money in January but I am not getting a bonus this year. Can we discuss extending the payment dates and have my loan repaid over the next 12 months'. It is also worth recognising that Sheikh Mohammad (Ruler of Dubai) dismissed four of his Senior (Arab) Lieutenants who he felt were responsible for the 'problem' simultaneous with requesting the 'standstill'. He has replaced them with 'reliable' advisers. It is NOT surprising that the 'standstill' should be requested to give the New Team a chance to assess the damage and review alternatives.

the Dubai Government has invested enormous amounts of capital in its infrastructure. It has arguably some of the best infrastructure in the world. Roads, telecommunications. airlines, airports, hotels, water, electricity, metro etc etc. All this is now in the latter years of completion. The money is spent and now 'cash will flow from the investment'.
The Dubai property market has just registered its FIFTH consecutive month of growth. On the ground here, the confidence level is visible from month to month - despite the coverage in the UK and Irish press.

The unlikelihood of a Dubai debt default became clearer as we moved through Friday and the stock markets started to 'compose themselves'. Shares in the banks that had loan exposures to Dubai and had seen their share prices 'destroyed' on Thursday recovered much of the losses.

Listening to the exaggeration of the story in 'the West' is very frustrating for us here. Suggestions of statements being issued from AD denying that it will help. RUBBISH. It was FRIDAY (our only day off in the week) AND it was EID (the major holiday for Muslims around the world). NOBODY would have been available or wanted to make such statements. And in all likelihood AD will/would help. It did after all give Dubai $5 billion unsecured on the day of the announcement. NOT the action of a Government that will not help. I also listened to lots of other misleading 'facts' used by the Western media to spread panic around the markets. But these markets were looking for a reason to 'pull back' from recent highs and the Dubai story was the catalyst.

So much is talked about the 'empty buildings' in Dubai. And suggest a 'link' to the Dubai Government. BUT most of 'these buildings' are a 'cost' to Developers from around the world. Therefore NOT a Dubai government cash problem.

I do not pretend to know or understand what is going on in the heads of the persons who concluded that the 'stand-still' request was the best option and to make the announcement hours after successfully raising $5 billion and on the eve of the UAE's longest ever public holiday. BUT do I think Dubai is bankrupt. Answer NO. Do I believe that AD will allow them default. Answer NO. Do I believe that the Dubai economy will grow during 2010. Answer YES. Do I believe that Dubai will create net NEW job's in 2010. Answer YES. Do i believe that more people will visit Dubai in 2010 than 2009. Answer YES. Do I believe that the Dubai property market will register further price growth in 2010. Answer YES. Do I believe there will be growth in direct inward investment in 2010. Answer YES.

The combination of these answers are not consistent with a country/city in trouble. Dubai went on a careless spending spree in 2006 - 2008 and now finds that the loans matching these investments (when matched to poorer cash flows from these investments) have over optimistic loan repayment maturities.

Dubai to me remains one of the best and most exciting places to live, invest and visit.
I hope this helps.

David McGee Home Thoughts From Dubai

 

Sunday, November 29th, 2009

Dubai Metro Success Story

The Road and Transport Authority have reported that passenger usage of the Dubai Metro has passed the 3 million mark.

Dubai Metro was ceremoniously launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum on the 9th September, 2009 when 10 of the total 29 stations on the red line opened. This is to be followed by the opening of the remaining 19 red line stations in February 2010.

RTA revealed that Mall of the Emirates station is the busiest station, with 607,775 passengers boarding the train there.

The Metro has attracted many commuters who use it as their key means of transport. It has also attracted many residents and tourists who wish to experience this novel mode of transport first hand.

It is hoped the Metro will reduce the number of vehicles on the roads, thus easing traffic congestion and lowering pollution levels, creating a healthier environment.

 

Monday, November 23rd, 2009

Dubai Irish Society hosts first Irish Souk in Dubai

The Dubai Irish Society is hosting its first Annual Irish Souk this Friday at the Irish Village, in Dubai.

The Souk will run from 3-6pm on the Lawn area. The Irish Village is an excellent location offering quality food and beverages where Irish friends old and new shall enjoy a terrific afternoon. All are welcome.
The souk will host various Irish & locally connected Businesses and service providers from Dubai. It will give them an opportunity to show their products and services in a relaxed environment.

A BBQ and soft drinks will be included for a nominal contribution of AED 75 per person for entrance. There will be a number of entertaining family games, bouncy castle and face painting for the kids. Children under 5 years are free.

A terrific family day out is guaranteed.

 

Monday, November 23rd, 2009

Dubai Experiences Increase in Residents

The number of people arriving in Dubai is on the increase.

The Health and Immigration Departments have confirmed the number of expatriates seeking new residency visas is once again growing steadily.

450,000 people have had medical fitness assessments as of end of October in comparison to the 500,000 for the entire duration of 2008.

New arrivals in Dubai seeking residency visas are required to undergo a series of tests including HIV screening and chest X-ray to eliminate signs of TB prior to being issued with a visa. A diagnosis of HIV positive will mean that the applicant will be denied admission and in the case of the presence of a TB strain, treatment can be sought in their home country and a further application may be made for entry.

An increase in visa applications is a further sign that Dubai is beating the global economic downturn.

 

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

FIFA BEACH SOCCER WORLD CUP CHAMPIONSHIP 2009

The sands of Jumeirah beach will be the setting for 7 national teams bidding for glory in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2009.

Taking place between Nov 16th and 22nd, Australia, Bahrain, China, Iran, Uzbekistan, Oman and Japan are the qualifying teams set to capture international attention over the weeklong event.

Beach soccer has been played recreationally all over the world for many years, often taking different formats and following different rules. In 1992, the first beach soccer event to be covered by television was held in Copacabana Beach, in Rio de Janeiro and following on from this the city hosted the inaugural Beach Soccer World Cup Championship in 1995. The host nation won making Brazil the 1st ever Beach World Cup Champions. This event generated much international interest and competitive beach soccer started to catch on in Europe and Asia. The European Pro Beach Soccer League was founded in 1998.

Over the next number of years beach soccer continued to flourish and progress both on and off the pitch.

In 2005, beach soccer became part of FIFA and in May 2005, the first FIFA World Cup Championship was played in Rio de Janeiro.

Dubai is only the third city in the world to host this event, traditionally held in Rio de Janeiro, it was held in Marseilles, France in 2008.

For further information and ticketing www.fifa.com

 

Monday, November 9, 2009

DUBAI PROPERTY PURCHASE - through an offshore company?

Why not, but what about inheritance issues?

Question: I'm looking to take advantage of lower prices in the market and invest in a property in Dubai - but what key steps do I need to take to protect my investment?

Answer: Two key elements to look at here: inheritance, and protection from creditors. Laws in Dubai are not the same as in the UK or EU, in particular with regard to inheritance laws. When a foreigner who owns Dubai real estate passes away, the laws of the owner’s home country should apply. There have however been cases where Sharia law has been considered. Under Sharia law, upon death of a property owner, the property is generally passed on as per Sharia forced heirship laws. This will normally be done in a manner contrary to the wishes of the non-Muslim deceased.
A property owned by an offshore company would not be subject to Sharia law in relation to the distribution of assets, as the shares can be bequeathed under "western" laws, as per the country of incorporation of the company. This is of course because a company has perpetual existence and does not die.

Shares can be distributed in accordance with the usual rules concerning succession in the place of the deceased shareholder’s domicile or Will. This is a very simple and cheap solution, that will if nothing else, provide reassurance to a family.

It should also be noted that a company provides an excellent legal framework for joint investment. A group of investors can join together and hold shares within the offshore company which reflect their proportion of property ownership, thus providing a legal structure for multiple ownership.

It also provides privacy and confidentiality and thereby protects your assets. The property is registered in the name of the company and not its owners, therefore it is relatively straight forward to keep the beneficial ownership of the property confidential.

It is possible to transfer your property currently existing under your personal name, to a company, without any transfer fees.

Concerning creditors, your offshore company shares will provide an immediate hurdle to any pursuing creditors. Necessary court orders from the relevant jurisdiction would be required for the first step.

For advanced creditor protection, one should consider transferring shares in the company to an asset protection Trust. Not only does this provide enhanced protection, but also allows for suitable future estate planning, and the avoidance of probate altogether. This type of structure is particularly suitable for those involved in business with the potential risk of litigation. Choice of jurisdiction for both company and trust is of paramount importance.

In short, owning property through a company is not only cheap, but is a very effective structure for asset protection, and is now very common in Dubai and many international jurisdictions.

www.SovereignGroup.com

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the details contained herein are correct and up-to-date, this information does not constitute legal or other professional advice. We do not accept any responsibility, legal or otherwise, for any error or omission.

 

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Burj Dubai – Officially opens in January 2010

Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest tower will officially open on January 4th 2010.

Its opening will coincide with the 4th anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum taking power as Ruler of Dubai.

Lavish celebrations are planned to mark this event.

The Burj Dubai is set in a 2km sq development called ‘Downtown Burj Dubai’, and is fast earning a reputation of being the Gulf regions most prestigious urban development.

Burj Tower owned by Emaar Properties and designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is being built by a South Korean Company Samsung Engineering & Construction in a joint venture with Arabtec from the UAE and Besix from Belgium.

The triple lobed footprint of the building is based on an abstract flower native to the region….  HYMENOCALLIS. At the top, the central core merges and is sculptured to form a finishing spire. This spire can be seen from 95 km away.

Burj Dubai will have a residential and commercial function and will house the regions first Armani Hotel. Its interior will boast double decker elevators and the top with have a public observation deck and a private club above that.

For further information   www.burjdubai.com  

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

My Move global has today officially announced the launch of ‘MyMoveAbuDhabi.com’

My Move global has today announced the launch of ‘MyMoveAbuDhabi.com’, a new website packed with information for residents new and old in the UAE capital. Abu Dhabi has seen unprecedented growth and development in the last 5 years. The population of Abu Dhabi is expected to increase to 1.3 million in 2013, 2 million in 2020 and to 3.1 million in 2030, according to estimates made by the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030

Following the launch in February this year of the MyMoveDubai website, the Dubai based firm My Move Global has launched www.mymoveabudhabi.com in a style familiar to the original site that has already attracted over 50,000 visits from 158 countries.

Commenting on the launch of the second site Co Founder Cormac Sheedy said. ‘People the world over are considering moving to the Emirates and following on from the success of myMoveDubai.com, we are thrilled to be launching Mymoveabudhabi.com. Full of everything anybody needs to know about legal red tape, hints and tips as well as the best places to eat, drink, meet and spend the MyMove websites are invaluable resources to new and seasoned expats alike.’

‘We have had strong interest from the UK, US, India, South Africa, Australia and Ireland and indeed all over the world,’ Said Sheedy. ‘it just shows how the UAE is as popular a destination as ever. In fact Abu Dhabi has just been named by Lonely Planet Guide as one of the top city destinations for 2010. Undoubtedly people will visit the city and seek career opportunities there.’

MyMove Abu Dhabi is also likely to be of interested to advertisers keen to offer their services to people new to the City.

‘People make a lot of buying decisions before they arrive here and these decisions can determine buying patterns for years to come’ added Cormac Sheedy. ‘People often set up bank accounts, leasing agreements and start other commercial relationships in advance of moving here and we have found that MyMoveDubai.com has been the resource many new entrants have turned to. We are confident MyMoveAbuDhabi.com will offer a similar opportunity to advertisers. 

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Dubai prepares work for 2020 Olympic bid

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, yesterday attended the meeting of the Higher Organisation Committee of Dubai 2020 team. The meeting was chaired by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.  
 
Sheikh Mohammed instructed the chairman and members of the committee to work as a team to make ensure a top class bid is created.

 He has been widely quoted in the UAE papers as saying "we have the power of will and own the will of change rather than the change of will". 

The bid if successful, will further define Dubai as a world class destination. Certainly huge work has been undertaken on infrastructure in Dubai with improving road networks, the launch of the Dubai metro in September this year and the work on Dubai World Central due to commence its first stage of operations in mid 2010.

Many cities bid to host the Olympics and then commence work on improving their infrastructure. Dubai is doing the exact opposite, which may well will tilt the balance in its favour when the final decision is announced in 2013. 

 

Monday, November 2, 2009

39pc of Men in the Middle East Would Cancel a Date to Watch Sport, says survey

 

An amazing 39% of men in the Middle East are prepared to cancel a date with their partners to watch a sporting event, according to a survey conducted by YouGov for Super.ae, a newly launched football portal.

Out of the 918 men surveyed in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt between September 16 and 27 2009, 20 percent said they would skip work or school to watch an sporting event, and 50 percent admitted to checking scores during family functions, including weddings.

The survey also showed that men in the region are twice as likely to surf sports websites than Twitter, spending an average of 3.9 hours per week on the websites, and only 1.6 hours per week on Twitter.

“The results are not at all surprising particularly in the Middle East where sport in general and football in particular, forms such an important part of the average male’s lifestyle,” said Ricky Ghai, executive Director of Digital Media, ADMC. “The fact that football scored over all other sports is just another indicator of how seriously this region takes the game. In fact, it was the need to cater to these dedicated followers that was a critical factor in our decision to launch Super.ae.”

The survey was conducted to celebrate the launch of the football portal on October 11.

 

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Stargate, Dubai Opens for Eid.

This Eid holiday sees the opening in Dubai of the regions first space age theme park.

At a cost of Dhs450 million, Stargate is located at Zabeel Park in the heart of city and offers 400,000 sq ft of futuristic fun. The structure resembles the interior of a space ship and is split into five domes, Earth, UFO, Lunar, Saturn and Mars.

An assortment of exhilarating rides and games combined with an advanced technology learning opportunity for the young and young at heart are available in each dome. Very young children are catered for also, with supervised space themed drawing, painting and storytelling.

Entry to Stargate is free. However a fee is incurred to use the rides and games. This is done by means of purchasing a Dhs 2 smart card and topping up at designated pay stations as required.

The complex houses a Space Mall which will retail an assortment of space related gadgets and a food court – and who knows the food may even be space related!

For more information Stargate Dubai

 

Friday, September 18, 2009

Property Update: At the end of the feeding frenzy what lessons have been learned?

By M.A.C. Davidson Legal Consultants

With purchasers back in the control or, at least, gaining some ground in the equilibrium of the property market, extra caution and common sense can now be taken when buying and selling property . The real estate market in Dubai saw a phenomenal growth in investment and huge gains were made by those who invested from 2002 to 2007. Most transactions were entered into with somewhat of a carefree approach derived from somewhat of a ‘feeding frenzy’ mentality.

In the UK, for example, there are clear procedures which identify and investigate the property being purchased. Lawyers are instructed to ensure that sellers have the authority to sell and purchasers have the capacity to pay. However, the UAE does not yet have such a structure in place and many purchases are still made on the basis of a simple two page Reservation Form, unwarranted deposits (sometimes forfeited) and broker led agreements often left unread by either party.

Hopefully those who have suffered from this phenomenon and perhaps new purchasers will exercise additional caution which is best exercised by having an expert, such as a law firm or equivalent industry expert, to guide their client through the procedures and avoid the potential pitfalls involved in buying and selling property in the UAE.

M.A.C. Davidson

 

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Welcome Back Review

By James Thomas of Acuma Wealth Management

In the second of a series of articles, our financial expert, James Thomas, from Acuma Wealth Management discusses the need for a financial review.

With the summer break finally drawing to a close, I thought that this would be a good time to review some basics of financial planning and why they are so important. At key times like this, people often make resolutions about many things, such as getting fit, losing weight, or getting a new job, but how many people decide that they should review their financial situation, take stock of where they are and consider where they want to be?

There is a very helpful series of questions that can be used to help with this. It is often referred to as the ‘broad concept’ approach. These can be applied to any set of circumstances. Firstly you need to consider where your financial situation is now; then to consider where you would like to be; then to review the options available, and finally what is the best option for you today? Once these questions have been discussed and conclusions drawn, you should be in a much better position to move forward.

This concept can be applied to three generic questions to ask yourself to assist with your financial planning;

What would happen to your family or dependants if you died before you have financial security? What would happen if you lived too long and your money runs out? And finally what would happen if you get sick in the meanwhile?

The first question relates to life assurance. Why do you need life cover? There are a whole host of reasons, but the main one will be to replace you financially in the event of your death. That may sound harsh, but that is what life cover is for. It is to replace the income that you would have earned if you were alive to support your family.

The next issue is to consider your future. Have you saved or are you saving enough to allow you to enjoy the time when you no longer want to work or physically can’t work? If you have already implemented a retirement plan, is it working as hard for you as possible? When did you last review the performance and check where your funds are invested?

The third question relates to what is sometimes referred to as financial death. This is when you are still alive but unable to work, usually due to illness or injury.

Your financial planning is an ongoing process and you should be happy that your decisions are the right ones and the arrangements that you implemented are the correct ones for you. We at Acuma welcome your questions and enquiries directly so please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss this or any other issue in more detail.

James Thomas
Acuma Wealth Management

 

Monday, September 14, 2009

MyMove Dubai team hits the Metro

By Cormac Sheedy

On Saturday last Sep 12th the MyMove team hit the eagerly awaited Metro.

We arrived at Nakheel and Harbour Tower Station at Ibn Battuta Mall having easily parked in the new Multi story Car park. Unfortunately both ticket machines were not working and there was a growing queue at the ticket booth. I counted nine staff inside but the queue moved slowly.

We boarded the train reasonably quickly and were greeted by the friendly and informative staff member in the carriage. The carriages are very comfortable with great head rests and Wi-Fi in first class. There is a ladies and children’s carriage which unfortunately was not adhered to when the Metro got busy.

There are currently ten of the twenty nine stations open on the red line with 2/3 expected to open every six weeks between now and next March.

The journey was terrific. Our sons Harry and Oliver loved the views of Dubai and the motion of the train was almost therapeutic.

Our journey to Al Rashidiya, took us about forty minutes for ten stops. The station was extremely busy and the return journey was packed.

The only black mark on our trip was our arrival back at Nakheel Harbour Tower Station. At this stage (5pm on Saturday) the station was packed and they were not letting people exit of the station. There were inadequate exit barriers with a huge queue had formed at the entrance. More barriers are definitely needed at this flagship terminal station and more decisive staff required.

The overall experience was terrific, and Dubai residents will adjust to this new mode of transport and residents do in many major cities of the World.

There is clearly a big novelty factor with the Metro for Dubai residents dying to try it out, and this will ease as time passes. However they can always expect tourists on it, as it is such an inexpensive way to view the City.

The Metro is clearly fantastic news for Dubai, but it will take time to resolve the teething problems. A combination of customers getting used to obeying the rules about pushing red buttons, not allowing kids to eat on the trains and observing the correct seating areas will all help matters.

The public has a part to play.

Cormac Sheedy
MyMove Dubai

 

Tuesday, April 07, 2009 | Finance

Medical Insurance

by Finance

Friday, March 27, 2009 | Sports

What no cricket in the UAE? Rubbish says Sanjay Murthy.

by Sports