DM earmarks beach for surfing

As part of its keenness to provide a safe beach environment that can attract all categories of visitors to the public beaches in the emirate, Dubai Municipality has recently set aside a location for windsurfing activity at the beach area at Umm Suqeim-3 adjacent Burj Al Arab Hotel.

Open public beaches in the emirate are witnessing a lot of water sports practices and beach activities by different nationalities and age groups making Dubai the ultimate recreational destination, said Eng. Alia AbdulRahim Al Harmoudi, Head of Coastal Zone Management and Water Channels Section of Dubai Municipality.

“Surfing is one of those beach activities that is very popular and accepted by a large number of residents and tourists,” she said pointing out that many of the fans of these sports head for the Emirate during the particular seasons for this purpose and exchange information among them on the condition of the sea and other things through forums and websites created for this.

Al Harmoudi noted that the process of breaking waves significantly helps practice this activity, which requires the availability of a specific correlation between the characteristics of waves and the topography of the seabed that makes the location very much exclusive.

She added that after the artificial island projects have been commenced, the only site in the emirate where this activity could be practiced is the beach area at Umm Suqeim-3 adjacent Burj Al Arab Hotel.

Harmoudi revealed that during the last year the Municipality received many complaints and observations by beach goers because of the overlap between surfing and users of the beach for swimming.

She said that after a systematic technical study of the location a part of the said beach at a width of 900 meters has been allocated for the windsurfing activity separated from the areas designated for swimming.

“The location is identified through the flags and signboards that have been placed on the beach in addition to the warning signs floating in the sea,” said Harmoudi.

She appealed to the practitioners of the sport on the need to adhere to exercising this activity at the location specified by the Municipality and not to infringe on the adjacent areas allocated for swimming and to preserve the safety of beach goers, and pointed out that actions will be taken against the offenders.

Harmoudi said that the Coastal Zone Management and Water Channels Section is also working on a study to determine the different locations on the open public beaches in the emirate for the other beach activities that affect users of the beaches and threaten their safety, especially the activity of Kite Surfing, practiced by thousands annually in the periods when the winds are active.

Third Oliver Wyman/Zogby International Survey Results Presented at Dubai School of Government Event

80% of Executive Respondents Voted GCC as Geography with the Greatest Growth Opportunity

Dubai-UAE: 31 January, 2011-Business confidence in the region has picked up significantly since the nadir witnessed during the global financial crisis, with the UAE registering over 30 percent growth in confidence levels, according to a survey conducted across the UAE and Saudi Arabia by management consultancy Oliver Wyman and polling firm Zogby International.

Dr. James Zogby, Founder and President of the Arab American Institute (AAI), presented the results of the ‘Third GCC Business Confidence and Government Reform Survey for 2010’ during a lecture hosted by the Dubai School of Government (DSG), a leading research and teaching institution focusing on public policy in the Arab world.

The results highlighted issues including business confidence in the GCC region, key business priorities to improve competitiveness going forward, and areas that governments need to focus more on, including education and labor reform. The areas are classified under two themes – Competitiveness, as well as Growth and Reform.

The survey revealed that executives are largely satisfied with the government response to economic challenges, with the UAE scoring a 69 percent satisfaction rate. However, they are wary that sanctions against  Iran may significantly impact their businesses.

Dr. Zogby said: "Our aim in conducting this poll is to assess business confidence in the region and provide a feedback mechanism to governments in terms of reform priorities. The business confidence in the region is relatively high on current and future prospects. Of course, the survey results cannot be termed as facts, because they are purely the perceptions of senior business executives.

"Executives in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia cite restrictive labour regulations and limited access to financing as the biggest hurdles to doing business. Although the respondents were satisfied with the government measures post-crisis, they have expressed the opinion that education and labour reforms are urgently needed in the region.”

For the first time, the GCC was included as an option for preference of geographic expansion for growth for both the UAE and Saudi executives in the survey. Nearly 80 percent of the executives who responded to the survey said they consider the GCC region a priority for new investment opportunities.

Dr. Tarik Yousef, Dean of the Dubai School of Government, said: "We are pleased to host the launch of the Oliver Wyman–Zogby survey results for 2010. Insightful analysis based on candid feedback from executives and industry leaders is absolutely essential for the formulation of sound economic and social policy.”

Established in 2005 in cooperation with the Harvard Kennedy School, the Dubai School of Government is committed to the creation of knowledge, and dissemination of global best practices in the Arab world. The school conducts various programmes that seek to enhance the region's capacity for effective public policy. 

Emirates Group Employees Receive Chairman’s Award for Excellence

DUBAI, U.A.E. – 31 January 2011 - A total of 15 Emirates Group employees were recognized for their commitment to excellence today by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, the Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group, during an award ceremony held at the Emirates Group Headquarters.

The annual Najm Chairman’s Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of Emirates staff. Hundreds of Emirates Group employees were nominated for the coveted award and after a comprehensive selection process Sheikh Ahmed selected and named the winning candidates.

“I am honoured by the level of commitment and dedication all Emirates Group employees have for their jobs, selecting only a few people to receive this award is always a difficult task,” said  Sheikh Ahmed. “While we saw hundreds of examples of outstanding work this year, I felt the achievements of these individuals deserved the highest form of recognition,” he added.

In total six individual and team achievements were acknowledged with three of these stemming from outstanding levels of teamwork, an attribute highly regarded within the Emirates Group.

Najm is the Emirates Group’s reward and recognition programme for outstanding individual and team performance. The programme is designed around the three pillars of commitment, excellence and innovation.

The achievements of the winners covered a number of diverse areas; from the development and implementation of a new system to monitor the emissions from Emirates aircraft, delivering a baby onboard an Emirates flight to Doha and the stringent implementation of Emirates safety procedures.

Sheikh Ahmed congratulated the winners at a ceremony watched by hundreds of the winners’ families, friends and colleagues. Each of the winners was rewarded with a crystal trophy, a certificate signed by Sheikh Ahmed and a AED 15,000 cash award.

“These winners’ have shown great aptitude and resourcefulness, the very attributes that have driven the growth of the Emirates Group. As we expand I am confident that our burgeoning team will continue to deliver the outstanding levels of excellence that the Emirates Group is renowned for,” said Sheikh Ahmed.

The Emirates Group currently has 50,000 employees around the globe.

PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA RECOGNISES MASDAR AS A DRIVING FORCE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY INDUSTRY

Prime Minister of Malaysia Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak uses visit to see the visible progress of Masdar City and to explore further collaboration between the two nations

Abu Dhabi, 31 January 2011: Today, the Prime Minister of Malaysia Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak visited the Masdar Institute campus at Masdar City, to see firsthand the momentum and progress of Abu Dhabi’s world-renowned, sustainable and cutting-edge urban development. The Prime Minister also met with Dr Sultan Al Jaber, CEO and managing director of Masdar, to discuss how the two nations can collaborate to innovate and commercialise renewable energy and clean technologies.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, said: “Abu Dhabi has emerged as a leading global hub for innovations in renewable energy, clean technology and the environment.  The world is waiting, as the bold Masdar initiative discovers a roadmap to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and provide practical and scalable solutions for a more sustainable tomorrow. Abu Dhabi and Masdar are advancing global progress and tackling the critical energy challenges our world faces. Malaysia applauds these efforts.”

Dr Sultan Al Jaber, CEO and managing director of Masdar, said: “It is an honour and a privilege to welcome the Prime Minister of Malaysia to Abu Dhabi and Masdar City. This visit underscores the global recognition of the vision of the leadership of the UAE embodied by Masdar as an innovator in renewable energy and clean technology. By developing a gathering place for collaboration, and making clean energy viable, the UAE is evolving into a commercial catalyst for clean technologies globally.”  

Masdar is Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted initiative advancing the development, commercialisation and deployment of renewable and alternative energy technologies and solutions. The company serves as a link between today’s fossil fuel economy and the energy economy of the future - developing a pathway for how we will live and work tomorrow. Backed by the Mubadala Development Company, an investment vehicle of the government of Abu Dhabi, Masdar is dedicated to the Emirate’s long-term vision for the future of energy.

Masdar City, one of the most sustainable cities in the world, is an emerging global hub for innovation and the commercialization of renewable energy and clean technologies. The city offers a fertile environment to inspire creativity, growth and commercialization opportunities to the companies and organizations operating in this strategic business sector.

Arab Nations Prepare For Front Line at IDEX and NAVDEX 2011

Strong exhibitor presence from the region shows Arab world’s advancing capabilities in defence supply

Abu Dhabi, 31 January 2011: With more than 200 companies from Arab Nations confirmed to exhibit at this year’s International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX), the evolving nature of the region’s defence industry which is moving from buyer to supplier, is being highlighted.

Representing Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, some of the companies exhibiting at this year’s show include:

·         In Aerospace: Griffon Aerospace, TLD Group, NP Aerospace and Hawker Pacific, offering aerospace vehicle manufacture, ground support, personal protection and aviation sales.

·         In Land Defence: Jordan Light Vehicle Manufacturing exhibiting its range of light combat and transport vehicles. Headline sponsors of IDEX, Tawazun Holding, a government-owned company designed to diversify the national economy into a wide range of industrial and commercial ventures, and its related subsidiaries such as Caracal International, and Tawazun Advanced Defence Systems.

·         In Naval Defence: Abu Dhabi Ship Building a world-class ship builder, specialising in the construction, repair, refit, and upgrade of naval, military and commercial vessels, Abu Dhabi Mar specialising in the building and refitting of yachts, Stellar Composites specialising in consumer and defence vessels, and Ocean Power International, suppliers of Thordon Bearings.

Commenting on the regional presence at this year’s show, Mohamed Al Mashgouni, IDEX 2011 Show Director, said: “We are seeing an emerging role for Arab nations in the defence sector; while this region is still investing heavily on importing technologies, the manufacturing and supply capabilities in the region, have also ramped up in the last few years. In line with this, nearly 10 percent of our exhibitors at this edition are from the region - providing a strong backdrop for this year’s show. Exhibitors from the Arab world, will therefore definitely, be among the ones to watch this year”.

IDEX is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, from 20^th – 24^th February 2011. It is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ.

Although supply capabilities have increased, demand for products by Arab Nations from domestic and international suppliers, is still predicted to be one of the highest globally. According to recent research by Frost & Sullivan, the GCC and Jordan defence budget is expected to hit US$68Bn (Dh249 billion) in 2011, growing to around $80 billion by 2015. Overall defence spending in the Middle East is also expected to cross US$100Bn by 2015.

Strong economic growth, continuing regional security concerns and the desire to develop indigenous capabilities through the use of offset programmes are driving the demand and strong growth projections for the region in the run up to IDEX and NAVDEX 2011.

About IDEX 2011:

First held in 1993, IDEX (International Defence Exhibition & Conference) is the largest tri-service defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa region. IDEX takes place biennially under the patronage of HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ. Defence deals worth a combined 18.5 billion dirhams in contract value were announced by the UAE Armed Forces at the last IDEX in 2009.

IDEX 2011 marks the show’s 10^th anniversary and will take place 20^th – 24^th February 2011 encompassing indoor, outdoor and marine exhibit areas at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. New for 2011 will be the launch of NAVDEX the Middle East’s premier exhibition dedicated to the naval defence and coastal security sector, which will run in parallel with IDEX 2011.

For more information go to: www.idexuae.ae

About NAVDEX 2011

Launching from 20^th – 24^th February 2011, the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) is set to be the Middle East’s premier exhibition dedicated to the naval defence, coastal and maritime security sector.

Run in parallel with IDEX 2011 (International Defence Exhibition & Conference) at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; NAVDEX is expected to attract a high-profile audience of influential decision makers dedicated to the procurement of naval and coastal defence products, services and solutions from the UAE, Middle East, Africa and Asian Subcontinent.

NAVDEX 2011 will take place at the ADNEC marina where exhibitors will display the latest technology on stands within a purpose-built air-conditioned exhibition structure; showcase vessels and crafts on the marina; demonstrate technology aboard visiting naval vessels; and highlight equipment capabilities in live on-water displays – all within direct walking access of IDEX.

NAVDEX 2011 is being organised by Clarion Events on behalf of ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ.

For more information please visit www.navdex.ae

PERCEPTIVE SOFTWARE APPOINTS EMEA GENERAL MANAGER

Perceptive Software, a leading enterprise content management vendor and one of the fastest growing global providers, adds EMEA general manager to oversee international expansion.

Perceptive Software, a stand-alone business unit of Lexmark International (NYSE: LXK) and creator of enterprise content management (ECM) solutions including ImageNow, recently announced the appointment of Anthony Giagnacovo as EMEA general manager. He will be based in Perceptive Software’s new international headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

Giagnacovo is responsible for leading the company’s aggressive international expansion efforts, with an initial focus on European expansion. He will oversee the company’s international operations, and is responsible for building in-country business divisions and expanding the Perceptive Software international customer base.

“With approximately 60 percent of the ECM market outside of North America, expanding our international footprint is a key to our continued growth and long-term success,” said Cary DeCamp, Perceptive Software executive vice president of marketing and communications. “Anthony Giagnacovo’s diverse experience in the software industry and international sales will allow us to deliver our unique ECM offerings to key international markets,” added DeCamp.

With customers in more than 30 countries, Perceptive Software is experienced at adapting its solutions to meet the business needs of international organisations. The company’s flagship solution, ImageNow, provides users with instant access to critical information, while facilitating collaboration and simplifying business processes.

Giagnacovo brings more than 15 years of technology experience to Perceptive Software, following positions at RSD, Adobe Systems and PeopleSoft.

GRASSROOTS TEAMS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TO TAKE PART IN VODAFONE CUP IN ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI, January 31, 2011 –  Five teams of passionate amateur footballers are to take part in the thrilling final of this year’s Vodafone Cup in Abu Dhabi as part of the Laureus World Sports Awards 2011.

For the first time, Vodafone are hosting the competition in partnership with Laureus to help raise funds for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. The finals of the annual competition will be held at the Abu Dhabi Armed Officers Club during the weekend of February 5-6, with the climax of the event just one day before the Awards Ceremony itself.

The five successful grassroots teams from Greece, Iceland, Spain, Turkey and the UK will each bring their passion for the game to Abu Dhabi for the two-day competition, following which they will sit side-by-side with sporting greats, whilst attending the glamourous Awards Ceremony at the Emirates Palace Hotel.

The teams have earned the opportunity to play in the Vodafone Cup in Abu Dhabi through several different routes, all of which have been backed by Vodafone. These have ranged from local football tournaments in Spain and Iceland, to sales based initiatives for teams from small and medium sized businesses in the UK. 

Daragh Persse, Global Head of Sponsorship and Cause Marketing at Vodafone, said: “At Vodafone we have a passion for and commitment to sport, so it is fantastic to be hosting this competition for footballers who play for the love of the game. We are particularly delighted to be hosting this year’s Vodafone Cup with Laureus, whose work supporting charitable sport projects throughout the world truly demonstrates the good that sport can bring to people and communities as a whole. We are delighted to be Global Partners of Laureus and look forward to another highly successful Laureus World Sports Awards.”

The Laureus World Sports Awards, which recognise sporting achievement, are the premier honours on the international sporting calendar.   The winners, as voted by the Laureus World Sports Academy, the ultimate sports jury, made up of 46 of the greatest sportsmen and sportswomen of all time, will be unveiled at a globally televised Awards Ceremony staged at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

The Laureus World Sports Awards is returning to Abu Dhabi thanks to the support of Aabar Investments PJS, who will once again be Host Partner for the event.  His Excellency Khadem Al Qubaisi, Chairman of Aabar, said: "The Laureus World Sports Awards is a unique event. It was magnificent, a great success for Abu Dhabi when it was held here last March. The whole event was really superb. We will certainly try to do something special for this year’s Awards.”

Kevin Spacey will once again host a glittering Awards Ceremony to be attended by leading sportsmen and women from around the world. In the audience at a packed auditorium at the Emirates Palace last year were Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow, British film stars Hugh Grant and Clive Owen and American actors Kyle MacLachlan and Michelle Rodriguez.  Among the names of the winners of the 2010 Laureus World Sports Awards announced in Abu Dhabi were Usain Bolt, Serena Williams, Jenson Button, Kim Clijsters, Natalie du Toit and Stephanie Gilmore.

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, offers a fascinating combination of the old and the new; a blend of Arabic hospitality and mystique where a mixture of culture and tradition come together against a backdrop of the most modern world-class infrastructure. Abu Dhabi is developing a reputation as a great sporting venue as host city for the FIFA Club World Cup, the Etihad Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, all highlights of the sporting calendar in the city.

Aabar Investments PJS is an investment company headquartered in Abu Dhabi. It invests in various sectors including aerospace, real estate, automotive and financial services. Its largest stakeholder is the International Petroleum Investment Company, which is wholly owned by the Government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Proceeds from the Laureus World Sports Awards directly benefit and underpin the work of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation which supports almost 80 community sports projects around the world. Since its inception, Laureus has raised €35 million for projects which have helped to improve the lives of more than one million young people. 

To

Accor to open 18 new hotels in the Middle East until 2014

Dubai, UAE: Accor Middle East, one of the leading hospitality groups in the region, has a robust platform to open 18 new hotels (4,850 rooms) within the next three years.

A strong focus will be on two key markets, UAE and KSA, which are seen to drive positive growth for the group’s development plans. Eleven of the 18 new hotels will be located in the UAE, two in Bahrain, two in KSA and three in Syria.

Christophe Landais, Managing Director of Accor ME said, “We have experienced sustainable progress in the region’s tourism and hospitality industry in 2010. With 2011 upon us, we plan to build a new image of the UAE as an affordable destination. We believe that to attract a more diverse tourist base, we have to offer tourists and business travellers alike a wider choice of hotels to stay in.”

“Focusing on our core strength, we plan to expand our internationally branded economy hotel ibis and mid-market hotel brand Novotel in the UAE which will drive tourism flows and redefine the Middle East hospitality industry in the long-term,” he added.

A new hotel brand, Adagio, will join Accor’s portfolio of hotels with the launch of the first Adagio City Aparthotel which will open in Abu Dhabi in late 2011 or early 2012. Designed to be a new network of urban residences, the Adagio City Aparthotel chain offers midscale apartments with à la carte services for “just like at home” stays in major destinations. The Adagio concept meets the very real consumer need for city stays: an easily accessible "pied à terre", offering home comfort and the chance for guests to enjoy their stay with total freedom and independence.

The global network of Adagio City Aparthotel already comprises of 30  Aparthotels, with more than 3,000 apartments in key European capitals and primary cities. The brand has an ambition to develop 100 Aparthotels across the world by 2015.

With tourism in KSA booming, Accor is set to open more hotels in this market. Forecasts from global information publisher Euromonitor International says business arrivals in KSA for 2014 will be 7.5 million and leisure arrivals will be at a staggering 22.7 million visitors. With this scenario, Accor is right on track in expanding its ibis network with the recent signing of a new agreement to operate the first ibis hotel in Riyadh. Currently Accor is managing 10 hotels in the Kingdom

With the successful launch of Accor’s first upscale hotel in the region, Pullman Dubai Mall of the Emirates in September 2010, Accor will sustain the brand’s positioning with a second hotel with the 354-room Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lake set to open this year.

 

In addition to Pullman MoE, Accor has opened three new hotels in 2010: Mercure Al Khobar in KSA (160 rooms), ibis Dubai Al Rigga in the UAE (280 rooms) and ibis Sharq in Kuwait (160 rooms).

Accor is confident in the future since its expansion and growth will bring its regional network to 54 hotels representing approximately 12,497 rooms by 2014.

Accor ME:

Accor ME is one of the fastest growing hospitality groups in the Middle East. Currently, the company’s regional portfolio includes a total of 36 operational hotels in nine countries. Among the existing global brands ranging from Sofitel, Novotel, Mercure and ibis, new brands such as Pullman and Adagio are emerging as strong players in the region.

With over 25 years of regional experience, Accor ME is the first to establish a training academy. Dubbed as Tamheed – Accor Academie Middle East, the training facility is dedicated to educate and prepare staff at all levels and ensure optimal career development.

About Accor:

Accor, the world's leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is present in 90 countries with 4,100 hotels and close to 500,000 rooms.

Accor's broad portfolio of hotel brands - Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Adagio, ibis, all seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1, hotelF1 and Motel 6, and its related activities, Thalassa sea & spa and Lenôtre - provide an extensive offer from luxury to budget. With 145,000 employees worldwide, the Group offers to its clients and partners nearly 45 years of know-how and expertise.

Rolling Stone Middle East’s ‘Battle of the Bands’ to Thrill Audience at Gulf Bike Week 2011

 Bands to Battle for Musical Supremacy at Dubai Festival City from 11-12 February

Dubai-UAE: 31 January 2011 – Clarion Events Middle East today announced the first Rolling Stone Middle East Battle of the Bands – a live event aiming to showcase exciting musical talent in the region.

To be held during Gulf Bike Week 2011 at Dubai Festival City from 11–12 February, the two-day Battle of the Bands will provide a platform for emerging local and regional bands to compete on the Rolling Stone Stage at the Gulf Bike Week Piazza.

The judging panel will consist of a host of well-known personalities in the local music scene, including Geordiebird from Dubai 92, host of Dubai Eye’s Open Mic show Zahra Soar, Triplew.me editor Paul Kelly, DJ Bliss and Adam Grundey, editor of Rolling Stone Middle East. Each band will have the opportunity to perform their own material – no cover versions will be allowed.

Waref Hawasli, Managing Partner, HGW Media, said: “This is Rolling Stone Middle East’s first Battle of the Bands and we are excited to involve ourselves in the region’s musical culture. There is so much talent in this part of the world and we want to encourage these young artists with an event dedicated to their passion for music.”

 

From the submitted entries, 12 bands have been chosen to compete on February 11 and February 12, 2011. The panel of judges will declare one act as the winner of Rolling Stone Middle East’s Battle of the Bands.

The winning band will receive a special Rolling Stone Middle East trophy, studio time and digital recording at Joshua F. Williams Music and Sound, gift certificates from Thomsun and future coverage in Rolling Stone Middle East magazine.

Christopher Hudson, Managing Director, Clarion Events Middle East, said: “There is an abundance of musical talent across the Middle East region. We are proud to be associated with Rolling Stone Middle East in encouraging and providing the opportunity for extremely talented young groups to pursue their dreams and aspirations. The passion displayed by these bands is simply inspirational and the competition will be of the highest caliber.”

The first issue of the renowned Rolling Stone Magazine was published in the United States of America in 1967. The Middle East edition launched in the United Arab Emirates in November 2010. The magazine covers music, movies, current affairs and all aspects of popular culture.

Held under the patronage of His Excellency Mohammed Bin Sulayem, FIA Vice-President for Sport and President of the Automobile & Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), Gulf Bike Week will take place in Dubai Festival City from 10-12 February. It welcomes over 150 exhibitors and has a 6,800sq.m exhibition marquee with an estimated 40,000 visitors expected.

About MECOM Forums

MECOM Forums is a Clarion Events Partner with offices in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. MECOM Forums, a Clarion Events Partner has grown into a highly successful business. In 2009, over 800,000 targeted people visited their 200 exhibitions, conferences and seated events across Britain, Europe, North and South America, Africa, Middle East and Asia.

The business-to-business and business-to-consumer, serve 15 different market sectors that include; Defence, Energy, Construction, Retail, Leisure, Entertainment, Finance and Life Sciences.

Clarion Events employs over 400 people in twelve offices: UK (London Earls Court Exhibition Centre, and Birmingham NEC); Germany (Bielefeld); The Netherlands (Maarsen); South Africa (Cape Town); USA (Connecticut and Reno): Brazil (Sao Paulo); United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi and Dubai); Singapore and Turkey.

More information on www.mecomforums.com.

‘FLYING FALCON’ HANNES ARCH SET TO DAZZLE AL AIN CROWDS WITH NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN DISPLAY

UAE favourite to thrill crowds at 2011 Ain Aerobatic Show

Al Ain, UAE. January 31, 2011: Abu Dhabi’s ‘Flying Falcon’, Hannes Arch, one of the world’s foremost aerobatic stars, will make his debut at the Al Ain Aerobatic Show this week with his dazzling new ‘Rhythm & Air’ routine – a stunning display which ties in the world of aerobatics with live music, dancers and moving images, all built around the four elements of air, fire, earth and water.

The never-before-seen act will be a highlight of the show, running at Al Ain International Airport from 2-5 February, and will draw on the Team Abu Dhabi pilot’s vast experience as a Red Bull Air Race dare-devil, where his lightening quick reflexes and nerves-of-steel earned him the coveted world champion title in 2008.  

“Abu Dhabi is a home from home for me, so it is an honour to be able to take part in the Al Ain Aerobatic Show for the first time this year,” said Hannes, a global ambassador for show organiser, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA). “I am really excited about being able to perform my new display, and doing it in the UAE for the first time makes it even more special. For me this is a departure from my home territory of racing, so I hope everyone will enjoy it.”

The ‘Flying Falcon’, as he is known, earned his Red Bull Air Race World Championship title in 2008, and followed it up with second places in both 2009 and 2010, achieving a record-breaking four consecutive wins in the latter.

The Austrian pilot’s gift for aerobatics has seen him race all over the world, wowing spectators with his nail-biting performances. Having made a career out of climbing the world’s highest mountains and jumping off the tallest buildings, Hannes is sure to have visitors on the edge of their seats with his awe-inspiring aerobatic manoeuvres, hundreds of feet above the ground.

Helping him to set the skies alight over the Oasis City will be his trusty, Abu Dhabi-branded Zivko Edge 540. This lightweight aircraft has the highest aerobatic thrust to weight ratio of any competition aerobatic aircraft. It is also capable of a 420 degree per second roll rate and a 3,700 foot per minute climb rate.

“Hannes has a special talent for getting the best out of his aircraft and dazzling spectators with his gravity-defying manoeuvres and unbridled showmanship. His new routine in Al Ain will be no different,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, Events Manager, ADTA, which organises the show in conjunction with the UAE Armed Forces.

“He has been a great ambassador for the emirate around the world, so it is fitting that he will be one of the highlights of this year’s show, which will be the biggest and best yet.”

Joining Hannes and the other solo acts in Al Ain is another airshow favourite - Skip Stewart with his aircraft Prometheus. An aerobatic gold medallist, he was the first pilots to fly an airplane under a jumping motorcycle and is recognised as one of the world’s most entertaining pilots. Prometheus, a Pitts S-2S customised by Stewart himself, brings extra flash to the aerial manoeuvres with its eye-catching, hot rod-style flame paint job.

More than 20 aircraft will take to the skies in the daily flying display at the 2011 Al Ain Aerobatic Show. In addition, the unique, multi-discipline FAI Desert Challenge, arranged by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the international governing body for air sports, will see six of the world’s best pilots flying in classic and free-style competing to be Al Ain’s first free-style Desert aerobatic champion.

Topping off the aerial displays will be spectacular on-ground activities for the whole family, including meet-the-pilot sessions, tethered hot air balloon rides, go-karting and bungee trampolines, as well as face-painting and appearances by children’s favourite magazine character Majid, the Al Ain Aerobatic Show’s own Friendly Pilot Bear and a stilt-walking pilot.

The 2011 Al Ain Aerobatic Show, held under the patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, will take place at Al Ain International Airport. Approximately 80 minutes drive from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it is an ideal day trip from across the Emirates.

Daily show tickets are just Dh40 per adult and Dh20 for children between three and 10 years old, while children under three enter free. Schools are being offered free access on the Wednesday and Thursday – further information can be obtained by contacting alainschools@fegroup.ae or calling 04 2867755. Ticket details can be found on the Al Ain website at www.alainaerobaticshow.com.

Potential visitors also have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to win a flight with one of the world-class pilots who will be participating at the show, as well as numerous other chances to win free tickets, by taking part in an online competition on the Al Ain Aerobatic Show website. 

The Al Ain Aerobatic Show is backed by a high-profile sponsorship line-up that includes Gold Sponsors Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Abu Dhabi National Hotels, Al Ain Water and Etisalat. Mubadala Aerospace, TDIC, Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies and Pilatus Aircraft are Silver Sponsors, while Emirates Motor Company is the Official Supplier and ADAC the Host Sponsor. The 2011 edition of the Show is carried out in partnership with Al Ain Municipality and Al Ain Police.

Dubai Knowledge Village Highlights Best Practices at Innovation Forum and HR Technology Events

Dubai-UAE: 29 January, 2011 – An innovative approach to offering an augmented layer of value-added services to business partners has been adopted by Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV), the region’s premier destination for human resources management, according to Dr. Ayoub Kazim, Managing Director, TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster.

Outlining the innovative management strategies that the TECOM Education Cluster implements to engage all stakeholders, he added DKV’s Partner Development Management (PDM) is a testimony to the value propositions offered to business partners that has launched and implemented multiple initiatives and platforms.

Dr. Kazim’s remarks came as part of his address at the second Annual Abu Dhabi Innovation Forum that was held from 24-25 January. Supported by Dubai Knowledge Village, the event brought together international experts and leading innovators to Abu Dhabi to discuss the exciting innovation landscape and discuss ways to advance their organisations in the current economy.

Dr. Kazim said: “In addition to helping differentiate Dubai Knowledge Village offerings from other free zones, initiatives such as the Partner Development Management have created greater synergy among business partners. This strategy has helped generate valuable business development opportunities and increased our business partners’ market visibility.”

Dubai Knowledge Village’s participation in Annual Abu Dhabi Innovation Forum 2011 also coincides with its support to the HR Technology 2011 MENA conference that was held in Dubai from 24-25 January. The event drew leading HR professionals from the region to discuss how they are transforming their departments through embedding technology and systems into the strategy.

Dr. Kazim added: “By redefining the concept of a free zone, DKV has successfully increased customer satisfaction levels while maintaining stable occupancy rates even during recession. At the same time, it has also effectively contributed to the community and Dubai’s shift towards a knowledge-based economy.”

TECOM Investments Education Cluster has created several platforms to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices across the areas of education, project management, leadership, work-life balance, investment, sales, IT, design, HR and tourism. Periodic industry-specific events focusing on sectors such as oil and gas, finance and banking, as well as investment prominently feature the annual calendar of programmes at DKV and DIAC.

DKV’s Partner Development Management (PDM) department has to date successfully conducted 185 workshops and seminars that have attracted over 21,000 professionals from the UAE and the region. Launched in January 2007, it aims to support business partners through fostering interaction with the TECOM community as well as other industries, maximizing exposure and visibility, and helping reach the target market through building appropriate marketing channels.

Listings: The Dubai Mall Activities

Duo Oud / Qanoon and Piano Player

Revel in the traditional sounds of oud and qanoon that capture the cultural essence of the region.

Date: Until March 31

Time: 7pm – 10pm

Location: Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall

Renaissance Fashion

Renaissance Fashion is a mixture of renaissance minuets, waltz and modern dance full of fashions, expression and posing, highlighting people’s influence on nature. It moves from classical to jazz to Madonna’s Vogue, culminating in modern funky style.

Date: January 27 – February 2, February 10, 16, 17, 18 and 20

Time: Sun to Wed – 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 8pm and Thur to Sat – 6.45pm, 8pm, 9pm

Location: Ground Floor, Waterfall Atrium, The Dubai Mall

European Dance Group

Family based entertainment providing opportunities for visitors to witness entertainment from around the world.

Date: January 31

Time: 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 8pm

Location: Ground Floor, Waterfall Atrium, The Dubai Mall

The Swans China Twins

Family based entertainment providing opportunities for visitors to witness entertainment from around the world.

Date: February 1

Time: 3pm, 4pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm, 6.15pm

Location: Roaming, The Dubai Mall

Manipuri

Family based entertainment providing opportunities for visitors to witness entertainment from around the world.

Date: February 2

Time: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm

Location: Ground Floor, Waterfall Atrium, The Dubai Mall

Marzipan & Food Decoration

Let your kids discover their talents whilst enjoying complimentary arts and crafts workshops.

Date: February 3 - 5

Time: 4pm, 6pm and 8pm

Location: 2^nd Floor, next to Galleries Lafayette, The Dubai Mall

Pottery Painting

Let your kids discover their talents whilst enjoying complimentary arts and crafts workshops.

Date: February 10 - 12

Time: 4pm, 6pm and 8pm

Location: 2^nd Floor, next to Galleries Lafayette, The Dubai Mall

Flower Decoration

Let your kids discover their talents whilst enjoying complimentary arts and crafts workshops.

Date: February 17 - 19

Time: 4pm, 6pm and 8pm

Location: 2^nd Floor, next to Galleries Lafayette, The Dubai Mall

Ballet

Enjoy ballet performances by The BFA, comprising two dance troupes with over ten years of experience. Marvel at the remarkable costumes and stunning dance movements.

Date: February 3, 13, 14, 15 and 19

Time: Sun – Wed: 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 8pm; and Thurs – Sat: 6.45pm, 8pm, 9pm

Location: Ground Floor, Waterfall, The Dubai Mall

Circus Style Performers

Family based entertainment providing opportunities for visitors to witness entertainment from around the world.

Date: February 4 – 9 and 11 - 12

Time: Sun – Wed: 4.30pm, 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 8pm; and Thurs – Sat: 5.30pm 6.45pm, 8pm, 9pm

Location: Roaming, The Dubai Mall

Montblanc Literary Exhibition

Discover the stories of the world’s most significant writers as Montblanc and Magrudy pay tribute to their lives, works and words. The exhibition will celebrate extraordinary writers and share for the first time a collection of very rare and collectable limited Writers Editions created by Montblanc.

Date: January 26 – February 10

Time: The Dubai Mall operational hours

Location: Bloomingdale’s Atrium, The Dubai Mall