Colin Firth receives Variety’s ‘International Star of the Year’ Award at DIFF

Dubai, UAE; December 13, 2010: Renowned actor Colin Firth received the Variety ‘International Star of the Year’ Award from actress Carey Mulligan at a public ‘In Conversation’ session held at the seventh Dubai International Film Festival on Monday. Firth’s film ‘The King’s Speech’ was the opening gala of the festival on Sunday.

Later, Firth took part in an ‘In Conversation’ session, giving the audience insights on his career and discussing the role as King George VI in ‘The King’s Speech.’ He also answered questions raised by the audience in a freewheeling chat.

The English thespian, Colin Firth’s memorable performances include his depiction of Mr. Darcy on the 1995 television series of Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones’ Diary with co-stars Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant, and BAFTA Award-winner A Single Man.

Last year, the DIFF presented Scottish actor Gerard Butler with the Variety ‘International Star of the Year’ Award.

DIFF 2010 box office locations are: Cinestar Mall of the Emirates, Madinat Souk and the CNN Building in Dubai Media City. Tickets can also be purchased through DIFF’s Dial-a-Ticket service at (04) 391 3378 and from the website www.dubaifilmfest.com.

The seventh edition of Dubai International Film Festival 2010 is held until Dec. 19 in association with Dubai Studio City. Dubai Duty Free, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Pearl, Emirates Airline and Madinat Jumeirah, the home of the Dubai International Film Festival, are the principal sponsors of DIFF. The event is supported by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.

For more and updated information about DIFF, please visit www.dubaifilmfest.com

Acclaimed jury to evaluate submissions for DIFF 2010 Human Rights Film Network Award

Dubai, UAE; December 12, 2010: A jury comprising film festival professionals will evaluate the submissions for the second Human Rights Film Network (HRFN) Award at the seventh Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF).



The award introduced in 2009, is aimed at encouraging and promoting films that address human rights issues. At DIFF 2010, 10 films will vie for the honours.



Judging the submissions for the HRFN award is Kebour Genna of the Addis International Film Festival; Taco Ruighaver, Director, the Movies that Matter Festival in Amsterdam, Netherlands; and Syrian filmmaker Sawsan Darwaza, whose films depict the harsh realities of life in strife-torn areas of the Middle East yet with a powerful message of peace.



The films short-listed for the award showcases the human rights violations – in various contexts - and the trauma of human beings through powerful, compelling narratives. From stories of the underprivileged, to the situation of people in war-stricken countries, these films use the universal language of art to convey hope to viewers everywhere.



The 10 films competing for the award include, Dorota Kedzierzawska’s Jutro Bedzie Lepiej (Tomorrow Will Be Better); Koutaiba Al-Janabi’s Al Raheel Min Baghdad (Leaving Baghdad); Marianne Khoury and Mustapha Hasnaoui’s Zelal; Aamir Bashir’s Harud (Autumn); Oliver Schmitz’s Le Secret De Chanda (Life, Above All); Jeong-hyun Mun’s Yongsan; Dominique C. Mollard’s Adrift: People of a Lesser God; Fedora Aladag’s Die Fremde (When We Leave); Roberto Hernandez and Geoffrey Smith’s Presunto Culpable (Presumed Guilty); and Jahmil XT Qubeka’s A Small Town Called Descent.



The HRFN is a partnership of human rights film festivals globally. The network, established in Prague in 2004, promotes exchange, communication and collaboration regarding the representation of human rights issues in motion pictures.



It co-ordinates the network through email, internet, regular meetings and special events and an assembly of member festivals meets periodically for decision making and electing a board of coordinators to manage activities.



DIFF 2010 box office locations are: Cinestar Mall of the Emirates, Madinat Souk and the CNN Building in Dubai Media City. Tickets can also be purchased through DIFF’s Dial-a-Ticket service at (04) 391 3378 and from the website http://www.dubaifilmfest.com/.



The seventh edition of Dubai International Film Festival 2010 is being held through Dec. 19 in association with Dubai Studio City. Dubai Duty Free, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Pearl, Emirates Airline and Madinat Jumeirah, the home of the Dubai International Film Festival, are the principal sponsors of DIFF. The event is supported by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.



For more and updated information about DIFF, please visit http://www.dubaifilmfest.com/

Colin Firth to interact with public at 'In Conversation' session at DIFF 2010

Actor to be presented with Variety’s ‘International Star of the Year’ Award

Dubai, UAE; December 12, 2010: Renowned actor Colin Firth, the star of the opening film of the seventh Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), The King’s Speech, will interact with visitors to the festival at the 'In Conversation' session. It follows the actor being presented with the Variety ‘International Star of the Year’ Award today (Monday, Dec. 13) at the First Group Theatre, Madinat Jumeirah, from 4 to 5pm. Tickets to the event are on sale now.

Sponsored by the film and entertainment industry’s trade magazine, Variety, the award honours innovative cinematic talent for their contribution to the film industry

Shivani Pandya, DIFF Managing Director, said: “Colin Firth is among the most renowned names in the entertainment industry, and it is DIFF’s honour to bestow the ‘International Star of the Year,’ one of the most highly-ranked awards to him. Variety is at the forefront of promoting global dialogue in cinema and for DIFF, it is a perfect fit to host the award ceremony."

Actress Carey Mulligan (An Education; Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps) will be in Dubai to present the award to Colin Firth.

The English thespian, Colin Firth’s memorable performances include his depiction of Mr. Darcy on the 1995 television series of Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones’ Diary with co-stars Renée Zellweger and Hugh Grant, and BAFTA Award-winner A Single Man.

Last year, the DIFF presented Scottish actor Gerard Butler with the Variety ‘International Star of the Year’ Award.

DIFF 2010 box office locations are: Cinestar Mall of the Emirates, Madinat Souk and the CNN Building in Dubai Media City. Tickets can also be purchased through DIFF’s Dial-a-Ticket service at (04) 391 3378 and from the website www.dubaifilmfest.com.

The seventh edition of Dubai International Film Festival 2010 is held until Dec. 19 in association with Dubai Studio City. Dubai Duty Free, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Pearl, Emirates Airline and Madinat Jumeirah, the home of the Dubai International Film Festival, are the principal sponsors of DIFF. The event is supported by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.

For more and updated information about DIFF, please visit www.dubaifilmfest.com

Winners of Metering International Excellence Awards Announced; Four Prestigious Utilities Honoured with ‘Tomorrow’s Leader’Award

Dubai-UAE: 07 December, 2010 – Metering  International,  the  global  leader

in  metering  and  grids  information,  today  announced  the  winners  of  the  Metering

International Excellence Awards. The awards mark each organisation’s contribution

to the utilities and projects that have caught the attention of the wider international

smart grid community for their innovation and quality.

The Metering International Excellence Awards ceremony took place at the Shangri-

la  Hotel  in  Dubai.  Four  leading  utilities  were  honoured  with ‘Tomorrow’s  Leader’

award  for  having  demonstrated  a  commitment  to  the  smart  grid  future  and

making  promising  initial  strides  towards  the  smart  grid  goal.  Saad  H.  Al  Mansour,

Executive Vice President, Distribution and Customer Service and Yousif Al Barrack,

Automation  and  IT  Distribution  Systems  Manager  received  the  award  for  Saudi

Electricity  Company;  Abdulla  Al  Aghbari,  VIP  Distribution  Planning  received  the

award  for  Dubai  Electricity  and  Water  Authority;  Saeed  Nassouri,  Senior  Technical

Advisor,  received  the  award  for  Abu  Dhabi  Water  and  Electricity  Authority;  and

Ahmed  Nasser  Al  Nasser,  Manager,  Electricity  Projects  received  the  award  for

Kahrama, Qatar.

Loubna  Aghfazi,  Portfolio  Director,  Spintelligent,  a  Clarion  Events  partner,

said: “Metering utilities across the Middle East are making substantial investments

to ensure that the smart grid infrastructure is state of the art and continue to push

the  industry  benchmarks.  The  Metering  International  Excellence  Award  recognizes

the commitment, innovation and leadership each of the utilities have demonstrated,

and it is an honour to have various industry leaders join us on this special day.”  

Established  in  1996,  Metering  International  is  the  global  leader  in  delivering  utility

metering,  billing  and  customer  management  news  to  loyal  readers  in  over  200 countries worldwide.

Landmark Group Named ‘Retail Company of the Year’ at Arabian Business Awards 2010

Dubai-UAE: 6 December, 2010 – Landmark Group, the region’s leading retail and hospitality conglomerate, today announced it has been named ‘Retail Company of the Year’ at the Arabian Business Awards 2010.

Recognising outstanding business achievements in the region across 15 categories, the award ceremony was held at Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa on 30 November.

Vipen Sethi, CEO, Landmark Group, said: “It is an honour to be acknowledged as the ‘Retail Company of the Year’. Landmark Group has grown consistently over the past 37 years, and while our journey has been incredible, it is the support of a results-oriented team that has made this possible.

“The Group’s consistent track record of growth in the retail space has remained a profound testimony to the management’s entrepreneurial approach that inspires individuals to strive harder. We have always banked on our core belief – creating exceptional value for all the lives we touch – which has been the guiding philosophy to the Group’s success in every venture.”

Among the recent milestones for Landmark Group was the region-wide launch of its rebranded loyalty programme – Shukran – extending a single loyalty platform where customers can seamlessly earn and redeem points across more than 40 brands in different sectors.

The annual Arabian Business Awards additionally recognise companies in categories such as technology, aviation, retail banking, property, hospitality, media, telecom, investment banking, healthcare, education and small business. Individuals are honoured for their achievements as Businesswoman, Businessman and Lifetime Achievement of the Year.

The awards which are in their 11^th edition this year, have built the reputation for being amongst the most credible industry awards in the region. An illustrious panel of judges, chaired by Arabtec Founder Riad Kamal, went through entries across various categories to arrive upon winners. Landmark Group, joins the ranks of Batelco, Alwaleed Foundation, Union National Bank, GE Middle East and other industry leaders that were recognised in their categories this year.

Landmark Group has a presence across all categories within the retail sector and diversified into areas such as hospitality and leisure. A leader in the Middle East retail industry with operations across 15 markets, the Group has successfully established its procurement might and offers a high value to customers.

About Landmark Group

Founded in 1973 in Bahrain, the Landmark Group has successfully grown into one of the largest and most successful retail organizations in the Middle East and India. An international, diversified retail conglomerate that encourages entrepreneurship to consistently deliver exceptional value, the Group operates over 900 stores encompassing over thirteen million square feet across Middle East, India, Egypt, Turkey, Yemen and Pakistan (franchise operation).

Landmark Group employs more than 32,000 employees and provides a value-driven product range for the family through its core retail concepts: Centrepoint, Babyshop, Shoe Mart, Splash, Lifestyle, Beautybay, Iconic, Home Centre, Q Home Décor, Max, Shoexpress, E-Max and international franchise brands such as New Look, Reiss, Aftershock, Koton, Kurt Geiger, Ecco, Pablosky amongst others.

Besides retail, the Group has also diversified in the leisure, food and hospitality segments with Fun City, Gourmet Station, Spaces, Citymax Hotels, Fitness First and Foodmark, the restaurant division which includes own and franchise brands like Mango Tree, The Meat Company, Carluccio's, La Gaufrette, Bazerkan, Ushna amongst others.

UAE agency triumphs at Middle East PR awards; Independent agency d’pr beats international agencies to the prestigious Agency of the Year title

Dubai, December 5, 2010: Representing a momentous success for home-grown Middle East communications services, regional public relations agency d’pr pulled off an historic victory at the Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) Awards 2010, taking home four awards including the inaugural Agency of the Year crown.

The Dubai-based agency, which is only six-years-old, also scooped the ‘Young Communicator of the Year’ Award, the ‘CSR & Community Award’ for its Stay Alert, Stay Alive campaign for BMW, and the ‘Business to Business Award’ for its campaign surrounding the Gulf Education Supplies & Solutions show 2010.

d’pr Managing Director Camilla d’Abo said: “This is vindication of everything we’ve set out to achieve as an agency. We have consistently won and retained business due to our commitment to having a bespoke approach to each client and our passion for what we do. We maintain that our regional knowledge and insight coupled with exceptional levels of client servicing and a commitment to creative, bespoke strategies would achieve long term results, and this has proven to be the case.”

Independently established, run and managed, is something d’pr is hugely proud of. “Being ‘home-grown’ we believe leads to better insight and understanding of the unique operating conditions in this region. Not being able to leverage global associations to win business or bring in staff from other offices could be viewed as a disadvantage, but we’ve turned it into a positive. We are more flexible, less bureaucratic and more personalised. Ultimately we believe this allows us to deliver a better level of service and client results.”

Emirati PR Manager Jamal Al Mawed was named ‘Young Communicator of the Year’ for his outstanding work with clients such as BMW and National Bonds. Al Mawed has been with the agency for two years and in that time has demonstrated an outstanding attitude and aptitude as a champion for Middle East Arabic PR professionals, qualities that clearly impressed the MEPRA judges.

“Jamal is a perfect example of how our commitment to developing young Arab talent is paying dividends. What we’ve achieved this year is amazing, but just as importantly we are building a vibrant, dynamic team to ensure our future is even brighter,” said Camilla. “Ultimately it’s all about achieving measurable and relevant results for our clients and we believe the best way to guarantee that is by making sure we have a team comprising the most talented PR practitioners in the region.

The MEPRA Awards were decided by an independent panel of 21 judges chaired by Tim Harrison, Head of Communications for HSBC Middle East.

 

Chair of the judging panel, Tim Harrison commented: “The overall standard of the submissions was exceptional which made the process much more challenging and fulfilling. In the scoring process judges tended to favour campaigns with a high level of difficulty – sensitive or complex issues that needed careful handling – as well as those showing alignment with business goals. As ever, creativity and strong results were the key parameters for a successful campaign.”

Website: www.d-pr.ae

About d’pr

d’pr is a full service PR consultancy offering integrated communications solutions with its sister agency events specialist, d’events. The agency prides itself on delivering creative and innovative PR campaigns, providing strategic consultation on external public relations initiatives, and the implementation of regional media outreach activities.

The business serves a cross section of over 30 brands specialising in banking and finance, real estate, hospitality and retail. Specialist sector knowledge and a network of in-country partners guarantees in-depth, measurable communication campaigns throughout the MENA region.

About d’events

d’events was launched in Dubai in 2004 as a corporate events agency. The scope of services comprise brand and product launches, corporate hospitality, sports events and industry conferences.

In 2010 d’events has delivered over 50 events for brands including Nokia, Montblanc, HSBC, Daily Mail Group, Imperial Tobacco Group, Cartier, Rolls Royce and BMW.

FRiENDi GROUP wins ‘Best New Entrant’ award at the prestigious fifth annual CommsMEA Awards

Dubai, 01 December, 2010: FRiENDi GROUP the MVNO in the SAMEA region, last night took home the coveted title of ‘Best New Entrant’ at the prestigious CommsMEA awards held at Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai.

The award ceremony, part of the 3GSM Telco World Summit, the premier communications event in the Middle Eastern region, was held to acknowledge individuals and operators who have taken a leadership role, invested in technology and developed services in the region’s fast growing telecoms sector. FRiENDi GROUP was recognised as ‘Best New Entrant’ for their innovative and successful launches of the company’s MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) businesses in Oman and Jordan.

Commenting on the award, Mikkel Vinter CEO, FRiENDi GROUP said; “Since its launch, FRiENDi GROUP has enjoyed a very warm welcome from the customers in both Oman and Jordan, and we are very pleased with this now being recognised by FRiENDi GROUP receiving the CommsMEA award as “Best New Entrant”.

With the launch in Oman in April 2009, FRiENDi GROUP established the first MVNO/Mobile Reseller in that country and in the Middle East region in general. Providing a pre-paid mobile experience based around empowering customers to stay connected to their family and friends locally and internationally, whether they are expatriates or nationals, the FRiENDi GROUP proposition combine exciting services and competitive prices. Winning the hearts and minds of end-users, FRiENDi GROUP launched a second MVNO service in June 2010 in Jordan.

Mikkel Vinter added, “The South Asia, Middle East and Africa region, where FRiENDi GROUP has its geographic focus, offers a great opportunity for our business model. In Europe alone there are over 300 different MVNOs, whereas there is only a handful today in this region, so we certainly expect the regional mobile industry to move towards a more segmented approach with new brands being introduced to replace the ‘one-size-fits-all” single brand approach” of the past.

FRiENDi GROUP is currently delivering on the company vision of establishing a pan-regional footprint, and is deploying its advanced MVNO/MVNE technical platform plus global operational experience to support the roll-out of several new countries to be announced in the near future. With mobile operators and telecom regulators increasingly recognizing the fresh impetus and value the wholesale business model can bring to mobile markets across the region, FRiENDi GROUP is positioned as a leader in this exciting development for the regional telecommunications industry over the coming months and years.
About FRiENDi GROUP

FRiENDi GROUP was established in 2006 and is headquartered in Dubai Internet City, UAE. FRiENDi GROUP is an award-winning innovative telecommunications group operating as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) and Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE) across the SAMEA region (South Asia, the Middle East and Africa)

The MVNO/MVNE model is a proven business model delivering significant benefits to mobile consumers and telecom operator partners.

The FRiENDi GROUP management team includes senior level team members from a variety of successful regional and global mobile operators as well as MVNOs. FRiENDi GROUP has a strong financial foundation and is supported by well-reputed and highly experienced global and regional shareholders.

For more information please visit: www.friendigroup.com

Dubai, 01 December, 2010: FRiENDi GROUP the MVNO in the SAMEA region, last night took home the coveted title of ‘Best New Entrant’ at the prestigious CommsMEA awards held at Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai.

The award ceremony, part of the 3GSM Telco World Summit, the premier communications event in the Middle Eastern region, was held to acknowledge individuals and operators who have taken a leadership role, invested in technology and developed services in the region’s fast growing telecoms sector. FRiENDi GROUP was recognised as ‘Best New Entrant’ for their innovative and successful launches of the company’s MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) businesses in Oman and Jordan.

Commenting on the award, Mikkel Vinter CEO, FRiENDi GROUP said; “Since its launch, FRiENDi GROUP has enjoyed a very warm welcome from the customers in both Oman and Jordan, and we are very pleased with this now being recognised by FRiENDi GROUP receiving the CommsMEA award as “Best New Entrant”.

With the launch in Oman in April 2009, FRiENDi GROUP established the first MVNO/Mobile Reseller in that country and in the Middle East region in general. Providing a pre-paid mobile experience based around empowering customers to stay connected to their family and friends locally and internationally, whether they are expatriates or nationals, the FRiENDi GROUP proposition combine exciting services and competitive prices. Winning the hearts and minds of end-users, FRiENDi GROUP launched a second MVNO service in June 2010 in Jordan.

Mikkel Vinter added, “The South Asia, Middle East and Africa region, where FRiENDi GROUP has its geographic focus, offers a great opportunity for our business model. In Europe alone there are over 300 different MVNOs, whereas there is only a handful today in this region, so we certainly expect the regional mobile industry to move towards a more segmented approach with new brands being introduced to replace the ‘one-size-fits-all” single brand approach” of the past.

FRiENDi GROUP is currently delivering on the company vision of establishing a pan-regional footprint, and is deploying its advanced MVNO/MVNE technical platform plus global operational experience to support the roll-out of several new countries to be announced in the near future. With mobile operators and telecom regulators increasingly recognizing the fresh impetus and value the wholesale business model can bring to mobile markets across the region, FRiENDi GROUP is positioned as a leader in this exciting development for the regional telecommunications industry over the coming months and years.
About FRiENDi GROUP

FRiENDi GROUP was established in 2006 and is headquartered in Dubai Internet City, UAE. FRiENDi GROUP is an award-winning innovative telecommunications group operating as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) and Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE) across the SAMEA region (South Asia, the Middle East and Africa)

The MVNO/MVNE model is a proven business model delivering significant benefits to mobile consumers and telecom operator partners.

The FRiENDi GROUP management team includes senior level team members from a variety of successful regional and global mobile operators as well as MVNOs. FRiENDi GROUP has a strong financial foundation and is supported by well-reputed and highly experienced global and regional shareholders.

For more information please visit: www.friendigroup.com

Emirates Wins Top Marketing Award

DUBAI, U.A.E - 30 November 2010 – Emirates has received industry recognition in the recent 2010 GEMAS Effie (Gulf Marketing Review Effectiveness in Marketing Awards) MENA Awards.



Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President Corporate Communications was awarded the coveted GEMAS Marketer of the Year. Boutros was selected by a 15-strong panel comprising regional and international marketing experts. The prestigious award recognises the positive impact that sustained marketing exposure along with an excellent product can have on a brand.



“The Corporate Communications department under the hands-on management of Boutros has done an excellent job of conveying the Emirates message to our consumers. Communicating with our customers and partners has been pivotal to our success and we have spared no expense in ensuring our message meets the right people at the right time. Boutros abundantly merits this important award,” said Sir Maurice Flanagan, Executive Vice Chairman, Emirates Airline and Group.



Emirates employs a full range of classic and contemporary elements in its communications mix to ensure it stays ahead of the game in a very competitive environment.



“Emirates is a powerful symbol of how intelligent communication practices can transform a local brand into an international powerhouse,” said Boutros Boutros. “We have an incredibly robust Corporate Communications department which has been massively successful in promoting the Emirates business through a cohesive strategy covering public relations, sponsorships, events, advertising, merchandise, internal communications and web initiatives. This award represents the dedication and enthusiasm of the entire Corporate Communications team in making Emirates the world renowned brand that it is today.”



“Keeping a brand relevant and fresh can be difficult but Emirates products speak for themselves. We have a young and modern fleet of aircraft, fitted with the industries best products, as well as a dynamic staff who have helped make Emirates the global icon that it is today,” added Boutros.



The airline has always been at the forefront of communications and is adept in growing its communications strategy alongside a consistently expanding international brand. Now operating to 109 destinations Emirates has worked hard to ensure its brand is easily identifiable wherever it flies to. Such initiatives include global sports sponsorships. Today the airline is linked to some of the world’s leading sport events, spread across the six continents that Emirates flies non-stop to from Dubai.



As part of its international exposure Emirates has also played an active role in promoting Dubai as an international destination for sport, business and tourism.



The GEMAS effie Mena Awards were launched to recognize, educate and encourage effectiveness among the marketing communications industry across the Middle East.



About the GEMAS Marketer of the Year Award

The GEMAS Marketer of the Year is awarded to individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the marketing function and raised the standard of marketing within the organisation. The person is someone who, through innovation, strategy and communications excellence, has made a positive impact on the market place, evidenced through clearly quantifiable post-campaign evaluation. It is someone who, in the opinion of the judg¬es, has made a significant contribution to raising the standard of marketing in the Middle East.

DAMAC Tower in Beirut attract top accolade at Bloomberg International Property Awards

November 29^th: The Middle East’s largest private luxury developer, DAMAC Properties, has won a prestigious International Property Award for DAMAC Tower, its landmark collaboration with VERSACE Home in Lebanon. 

DAMAC Properties beat a field of international developers to win the award for “Best High Rise Architecture” for its luxury DAMAC Tower development in Beirut. The award was announced at a gala ceremony in London at the weekend.

Speaking at the event, Niall Mc Loughlin, Senior Vice President of DAMAC Properties said “DAMAC Tower is a masterpiece. It’s a stunning blend of exquisite VERSACE interiors, unique architectural design, in an enviable location on the shores of the Mediterranean. This international accolade recognises DAMAC Tower on the global stage, and distinguishes the project as one of the most highly regarded residential developments in the world.”

DAMAC Tower was launched in June and is the first exclusive VERSACE Home branded residential tower in the region. Situated in the elite marina area of the new Solidere development in Beirut, DAMAC Tower has extensive views of the Mediterranean. The spectacular flowing curves and undulating volumes of the 28 storey building were designed to emulate the surging waves of the ocean. “DAMAC Tower is a majestic development which strikes a balance between technology and luxury without compromising on style and aesthetic appeal. This innovative collaboration between DAMAC Properties and VERSACE Home will deliver to residents the luxurious Italian lifestyle concept.” Mc Loughlin said.

DAMAC Tower will feature spacious private units resplendent with custom designed interiors. All the common areas including the health and fitness facilities, the concierge reception, and the main lobby will feature VERSACE Home products. “DAMAC Properties’ partnership with VERSACE, the world-renowned Italian fashion house synonymous with glamour and luxury, defined the interiors of DAMAC Tower. The shared vision of the two companies has combined to deliver the most prestigious and sought-after property in Beirut” said Mc Loughlin, “and now that DAMAC Tower has been recognised as being one of the most outstanding developments in the world, interest in this project is likely to come from much further afield.” He added.

The judging of the International Property Awards was carried out by an esteemed panel of international judges. This year’s judges included Luke McKend, industry head property markets of Google UK; Peter Bolton King, group chief executive of the National Federation of Property Professionals; Christopher Hall, president elect of FIABCI; Thijs Stoffer, International Consortium of Real Estate Agents Association (ICREA); Fiona Nixon, chairman of the Australia Institute of Architects, Hendrik Nelde, president of FIABCI Belgium; Helen Shield, editor-in-chief of International Homes Luxury Collection magazine and Sven Johns, CEO of the German Real Estate Association.

DAMAC Properties has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class luxury projects across the Middle East, North Africa and the Levant. The name ‘DAMAC’ has become synonymous with superior quality and luxury lifestyle living. DAMAC Properties’ recognition in the International Property Awards further cements the developer’s position as one of the most highly regarded property developers in the region.

Further information is available at www.damacproperties.com

DAMAC Properties, part of DAMAC Holdings was established in 2002, as a private residential, leisure and commercial developer in Dubai and the Middle East. Since then, DAMAC Properties has expanded rapidly into North Africa, Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

2009 was labelled the ‘Year of Construction’ at DAMAC Properties, during which it aggressively focused on construction and contract delivery to trusted and quality contractors.  DAMAC Properties have already delivered more than 3500 units into the market with projects at IMPZ (The Crescent), TECOM (Executive Heights), JLT (Lake View and Lake Terrace) and the Marina (The Waves and Marina Terrace) already delivered and is expected to have handed over a further 3,971 in the next year.

In June 2010, DAMAC Properties further reinforced its position as a premium developer with the launch of DAMAC Tower in Beirut, Lebanon. A 28 iconic tower, this project is in association with Italian design group, VERSACE, with all interiors being designed by Versace Home.

The company has a diverse range of expertise that allows them to have a good oversight and management of all aspects of a project right from the acquisition of land, appointment of architects and designers, construction and sales to after sales service.

The company’s projects are located in the most desirable and exclusive locations and homes are built to a high quality specification that has become synonymous with the group. DAMAC Properties aims to develop projects that include residential, commercial and leisure facilities that will create an integrated community.

In addition to support services provided by the Dubai headquarters, the company’s comprehensive Customer Care Program provides solutions through its vast network with offices in the UAE, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, KSA and Qatar. 

DAR AL BER SOCIETY ORPHANAGE HONOURS DUBAI AIRPORT FREEZONE

SHEIKH SAEED BIN MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM HANDS OVER GOLD AWARD TO DUBAI AIRPORT FREEZONE REPRESENTATIVE
HH Sheikh Saeed Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (left) honoured the Dubai Airport Freezone with a gold award for its support to orphans.

Ibrahim Hassan, Director of Human Resources of Dubai Airport Freezone received a memento on behalf of the Freezone.

The awarding was held recently during Dar Al Ber’s fifth annual ceremony for orphans held under the Patronage of HH Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Hassan pointed out that the Dubai Airport Freezone is committed to support the activities for an orphan which is part of the Freezone’s priorities and charity programmes targeting this important sector of society.

Hassan also praised the annual initiative of HH Sheikha Hind Bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, on behalf of the orphans.

More than 200 orphaned children from Dar Al Ber Society attended the ceremony with a number of senior officials from local departments and representatives of sponsors and a large number of members from the public were present.

Giordano recognised as Best Service Performance Brand for excellence in customer care

Dubai, UAE, May 27, 2009: Having been recognized for its high standards of service, Giordano Fashions LLC was awarded Best Service Performance Brand by the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, as part of the Dubai Service Excellence Scheme.

Representing ETA Group and accepting the award on behalf of Giordano Fashions LLC, Ahmed Salahuddin, Director, ETA Group, said, “Service has always been top priority for our operations, both in-store and back office, which adds to our customers’ overall experience and most importantly, their perception of the brand. We are constantly improving on our existing services and store facilities, reinventing ways to enhance Giordano’s interaction with its customers. Building a relationship with the customer is key, as every satisfied customer is a Giordano brand ambassador.”

In line with their 2009 strategy, Giordano continues to focus on delivering a brand complemented by high quality service, offering the customer an enjoyable and comfortable shopping experience.

Since 1993, Giordano has rapidly expanded in the Middle East and India. With a current store count of 205, the company has exceeded their goal of 200 stores by 2010. Giordano opened 24 stores during the last six months further strengthening their presence in the region.

“Our goal is to continue to branch out into new locations, making our stores more accessible to customers. We have opened stores in most of the new shopping malls across the Emirates, including our flagship store of over 4,000 square feet at The Dubai Mall, putting us at key locations,” said Ishwar Chugani, Executive Director, Giordano Fashions LLC.

The company also has aggressive plans to expand within Saudi Arabia, with five new stores opening in 2009, one in Makkah, Madinah and Al Khobar, and two in Jeddah.

Globally, Giordano operates over 2,000 stores across 40 countries, and in 2008, the brand entered Mauritius and Azerbaijan, adding two more countries in the MENA region. In India, Giordano opened three more stores and five in-store counters, taking the total number to 16 since the launch of their first store in 2006.

During 2009, Giordano’s strategy will be to keep abreast with the changing trends in consumer fashion and the customer’s current needs, therefore building on the principles that have helped the company sustain growth.

Commenting on the new direction, Chugani said, “Over the years, Giordano has earned the respect and trust of its customers who demand quality, good value and excellent customer service, even more now. Our strengths lie in our ability to deliver the essentials that are timeless and relevant whatever the season. This year, we have identified our customers’ needs and are realigning our priorities to mirror those of our customers. We are going back to basics.”

Giordano is committed to making a positive impact on the community, following the principle of “doing well by doing good” through community involvement and environment protection. Earlier this year, Giordano announced a global program to convert all the stores to use energy saving lighting by July 2011. “In 2008, a large percentage of stores were converted and the results were encouraging, reflecting a reduction of approximately 318 tons in CO2 emission a year. This proves that even the smallest of efforts can make a big impact,” said Chugani.

Focused on supporting its staff, Giordano believes that the success of the organization depends on the contribution of its people. During these challenging times, Giordano has reviewed costs and optimized efficiency in the organisation’s practices to ensure staff security and stability. Giordano supports its staff’s personal and professional development, encouraging staff to grow within the organization.

“We are proud of the high retention of staff we have. Almost all the senior management members have been with us since inception,” concluded Chugani.

Dubai Marina Yacht Club wins ‘Best New Asian Marina/Yacht Club’ at Asia Boating Awards 2009

Dubai, UAE; May 12, 2009: Dubai Marina Yacht Club, the recently opened yacht club and marina owned and managed by Emaar Hospitality Group, was voted ‘Best New Asian Marina/Yacht Club’ at the Asia Boating Awards held recently in Shanghai.

The Asia Boating Awards have been running for five consecutive years and recognize the efforts being made to develop the leisure marine industry in Asia. A panel of over 18 judges was formed with key industry leaders to adjudicate the awards which honour yacht builders, marinas, charter companies, personality and design representatives who have made a difference in the maritime industry.

Mr Steve Stiglbauer, General Manager, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, said, “Since our opening in November we have had a very positive response from our members and visitors. The yacht club has welcomed many guests to its marina and news of our presence is spreading among the yachting community. It is an honour and privilege to have received this award which has helped increase awareness about the world class yachting facilities that we have here in Dubai.”

Set on a 3.5 km canal by the Arabian Sea, Dubai Marina Yacht Club will eventually cater to over 500 yachts between 10 and 35 meters in length. The Club’s highlight is the elegantly designed Clubhouse overlooking its own 116-berth private marina, of which the ground floor opens out through a waterfront café/bistro onto a public boulevard encircling the canal.

The Dubai Marina Yacht Club is quickly becoming the new centre of lifestyle yachting in Dubai, and features a marine retail shopping arcade, international yacht sales and brokers’ offices, a ship chandlery & nautical gifts store, a yachting fashion boutique and charter yachts.

Indian President presents Padma Shri Award to Sunny Varkey, Founder & Chairman of GEMS Education

New Delhi, March 31, 2009: The Honourable President of India, Smt. Pratibha Patil, has awarded Mr. Sunny Varkey, Founder & Chairman of GEMS Education, with one of the country’s highest honours, the Padma Shri award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Education and Social service. The ceremony was held in the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Mr. Varkey joins a select list of Global Indians to be honoured with the Padma Shri award for his exemplary services in the field of education across the world, and particularly the UAE. With a network of 100 schools world-wide, of which 26 are in the UAE, Mr. Varkey manages one of the largest networks of private schools globally. GEMS Education has contributed significantly to the socio-economic progress of the various countries it operates in.

“I am overwhelmed by this recognition from the Government of India. Receiving this from the Honourable President is a great honour. Education and social services are extremely close to my heart. I share this honour with the entire team of GEMS Education, who through their consistent hard work and dedication, has improved the lives of people across the world. Awards like this motivate us to continue the work we do in the field of education and to focus on initiatives that help provide education to the underprivileged, “Mr. Varkey said.

Mr. Varkey received the Rajiv Gandhi Award for Eminent Educationist last year, and has also earlier received the CEO Middle East Award for Corporate Social Responsibility, the Global Indian Business Award and the Most Outstanding Businessman of the Year by Asian Businessman Awards, Middle East – all for his achievements in education and healthcare

DM wins Shining World Leadership Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai

Dubai Municipality was recently awarded the Shining World Leadership Award from the Supreme Master Ching Hai, a world-renowned humanitarian, artist and spiritual leader.
Eng. Hussein Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality was handed over the award by representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association.
The award was presented in recognition of the outstanding efforts of Dubai Municipality in promoting the well-being of the public, with its recent declaration of smoking ban in hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and cafes.
Lootah, who accepted the crystal plaque award and the book gifts, shared his visions for creating a Green Dubai, and showed the visitors the Green Roofs on top of the Municipality building. He also explained them the Dubai International Award for Best Practice to Improve the Living Environment, instituted by the Municipality.
The award presentation will be featured on Supreme Master Television, a 24/7 satellite TV, broadcasting worldwide via 14 satellite platforms with 60 languages and 30 subtitles.
Lootah thanked the Supreme Master Ching Hai for the Shining World Leadership Award and expressed his appreciation for the noble efforts in recognizing, encouraging and promoting outstanding leadership.
After the award ceremony, Mohammed Al Noori, Head of the Awards Office under the International Affairs and Partnerships Sector of the Municipality, took the guests for a tour of the Projects Exhibition Hall of the Municipality, which features the history, development and progress of Dubai Municipality.

Mercator Wins Gold Advertising Award

Dubai, U.A.E., March 2nd, 2009 - The Emirates Group’s Dubai-based business technology provider Mercator was presented with a prestigious Gold Award at the recent Air Transport World 2009 Advertising Awards in Washington DC, USA. Now in their 35th year, the AdAwards are one of the airline industry’s most coveted accolades, with all categories judged by Air Transport World readers worldwide including airline industry decision makers such as CEOs and Chairmen, participating online.The winning Mercator campaign was devised with the aim of raising awareness of the breadth of Mercator’s portfolio and to emphasise the division’s drive to deliver business technology solutions that simplify processes and deliver returns on investment for their clients. Mercator wanted to highlight the successful delivery of their new cargo business technologies that are fully IATA e-freight compliant and which offer a paperless environment, giving enhanced operational visibility. The campaign also touched on their fast-growing revenue accounting outsourcing business, which reduces costs and improves cash flow for Mercator’s clients. It is also a reflection of the state-of-the-art airport technologies deployed in Emirates' Terminal Three at Dubai International Airport, already proven to improve passenger experience.

Dnata Cargo Scoops a Silver in Industry Advertising Awards

Dubai, U.A.E., 2nd March 2009 – Dnata Cargo has been a awarded a Silver for its ‘humorous’ and ‘clever’ cargo advert in the recent Air Transport World 2009 Advertising Awards held in Washington DC, USA.

Now in its 35th year, the AdAwards, one of the global airline industry's most coveted accolades, celebrate excellence in advertising in the airline industry. Submissions are judged by Air Transport World readers worldwide, including airline industry decision makers such as CEOs and Chairmen, participating online.

Dnata Cargo’s ad was given the Silver Ad Award in the Cargo Services Category after being judged on a scale of 1 to 10 by a readership of industry peers. According to the judges, Dnata’s ad was an example of a very simple concept that uses humor to make a point. The simple headline, simple use of copy and the graphic work well to illustrate the portfolio of services Dnata Cargo offers its customers. Judges described the creative as “humorous, innovative, cute, eye-catching, clever, and genuine”.

Ismail Ali Albanna, Executive Vice President, Dnata, who was in Washington to receive the award, said: “I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of Dnata. To be recognised in this way by our industry peers is really satisfying. It is a clear endorsement of our advertising strategy and highlights that our campaign is achieving one of its objectives – to get Dnata Cargo noticed and talked about.”

4,651 architects from 108 countries competing in the ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture Award

The registration process for the ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture Award has confirmed the outstanding interest in this competition to propose a new Tall Emblem Structure in Za’abeel Park, to symbolize the new face of Dubai, while promoting tourism and other recreational, scientific and cultural activities. A total of 4,651 architects in 2,967 teams, from 108 countries, have been qualified to compete in this year’s award, based on the requirements of the competition brief.

The top five countries for participation are Spain, France, Italy, United States and China, with over 100 teams registered each, while UAE and Egypt are in the top 10, with 85 and 94 teams, respectively. "We are extremely pleased with the record number of registrations that the ThyssenKrupp Elevator Architecture Award has attracted this year", commented Javier del Pozo, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Elevator Southern Europe, Africa & Middle East and President of the Jury of the Award. "We are thrilled with working with Dubai Municipality and hosting the competition in this city. We knew immediately that the distinct international reputation of Dubai would fuel this Architecture Award."

"Launching an international competition is a successful way of attracting international talents and adds on world class design ideas for the city of Dubai", commented His Excellency Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality. "It is important for us to continue promoting public awareness of good design and show what architects can do for our community. This competition stimulated enormous interest and we are looking forward to the exciting and creative design solutions it will offer."

The deadline for posting the submissions to Dubai was January 31, 2009. Following this, a jury of renowned architects from seven countries and business professionals will review the proposals submitted and select the best winning Designs for awards. The winners are expected to be announced in May 2009.

The Architecture Award was established in 1988 by ThyssenKrupp Elevator as a way to engage professionals in producing outstanding commercial, corporate, institutional, and community architectural design work at international scale. The 11th edition is held for the first time in the Middle East, previous editions were hosted in major cities in Europe.

Emirates Receives Prestigious Accolade For In-Flight Catering

DUBAI, U.A.E., 1st February 2009 – Emirates has been awarded ‘Outstanding Food Service by a Carrier Middle East 2008’ at the Pax International Magazine Readership Awards 2008. The award, voted by readers of Pax International Magazine, is highly competitive with airlines from across the region competing in the category.

As one of the world’s leading travel catering industry publications, Pax International Magazine runs a Readership Award Poll which is highly regarded for their recognition of outstanding performance, achievement and product development.

Bob Ferguson, Senior Vice President Aircraft Catering said: “Emirates is honored to be recognized by our customers with such a prestigious award. Pax International Magazine Readership Awards have long been the benchmark for excellence within the travel catering industry and we are pleased that the industry and importantly, our customers have recognized our efforts to provide the best possible in-flight catering.

“In-flight catering is a fundamental part of the Emirates travel experience and this award is testament to our continued commitment in producing high quality cuisine across our extensive network.”

Voting for the awards was open from January 1st – November 18th 2008 through the magazine’s website. Awards were voted on by representatives from across the global travel catering industry and are the only awards of their kind in the travel catering market.

Emirates in-flight menus are tailor-made according to several factors including; length of flight, flight destination and passenger profile in order to determine the best possible menu options for a particular flight.

All Emirates in-flight meals are freshly prepared using only the highest quality ingredients. Specialist chefs experienced in every culinary tradition, from sushi for the Japanese routes to a myriad of different curries for the constant stream of flights to the Indian sub-continent, are employed to ensure the finest and most authentic meals are served.

Emirates has continuously been voted as best in the world across the full range of its operations. The group now boasts more than 400 international awards.

ROLEX EXPANDS ENTERPRISE AWARDS TO FOSTER THE NEXT GENERATION OF SCIENTISTS AND INNOVATORS WORLDWIDE

Dubai, January 17, 2009 – Rolex has announced a new initiative to expand its international philanthropic programme to fund young pioneers and their groundbreaking projects around the world. In early 2010, the company will name the first five recipients of the Rolex Awards for Enterprise: Young Laureates Programme, honouring men and women between the ages of 18 and 30 with inventive ideas to solve tomorrow’s challenges in science and health, applied technology, exploration, the environment and cultural preservation. Award recipients will each receive a US$50,000 cash prize to enable them to pursue an original project. Equally important, they will join the network of Rolex specialists and innovators who can offer invaluable expertise and guidance.

The Young Laureates Programme is an expansion of the Rolex Awards for Enterprise, which were established in 1976. The inaugural Rolex Awards commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Oyster chronometer, the world’s first waterproof watch, and were created to encourage individuals ready to take on major challenges to benefit humankind and the environment. Since 1976, 110 Rolex Awards for Enterprise have been presented to Laureates and Associate Laureates from 40 countries, implementing projects in more than 60 countries. Recent winners include a social activist who has developed an affordable strategy to build housing for the rural poor using recycled materials in her native Paraguay; a Scottish physicist who created a breakthrough method to predict volcanic eruptions via an unmanned helicopter; and a Jordanian chemist working to save the ancient archaeological site of Petra.

“Rolex has a history of supporting individual excellence and achievement,” said Rebecca Irvin, director of the Rolex Awards for Enterprise. “By providing project support at a critical juncture in the careers of young people, the Young Laureates Programme will reward bright new ideas and encourage the next generation to meet the challenges of the future.”

Like the original Rolex Awards, the Young Laureates Programme will act as a springboard for men and women who use their creativity to improve life on the planet.

“As our world becomes more interdependent and grows more complex, young people must bring new perspectives and fresh approaches to tackling our greatest challenges,” said Gilbert Grosvenor, Chairman of the National Geographic Society and a past jury member for the Rolex Awards for Enterprise. “Particularly in this era of global change and uncertainty, the Young Laureates Programme represents a vital investment in the brightest thinkers of tomorrow.”

Young Rolex Awards Selection Process

To find young people around the world determined to carry out projects with a significant impact, a range of institutions, organizations and individuals will be invited to nominate potential candidates. Those who accept the nomination will complete an application form that explains the scope, goals and feasibility of their projects. An independent jury will select five individuals with strong potential to advance human knowledge and well-being.

Each winner will receive the $50,000 prize over the course of two years. Funding of $25,000 each in the first year will give the Young Laureates the time to bring greater focus to their projects; the second instalment of $25,000 will propel the projects forward. Rolex may also provide additional support to the Young Laureates to pursue a related activity that will add further value to their work.

The Young Laureates Programme complements the original Rolex Awards for Enterprise, it does not replace it. In 2010, five Young Laureates will be selected; in 2012, five Laureates and five Associate Laureates will again be chosen. The two variations of the programme will thus alternate every two years.

Rolex Philanthropy

Rolex’s other global philanthropic programme, the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative, also reflects an ongoing commitment to promoting excellence in the next generation. The Arts Initiative brings together emerging artists with recognized masters for a year of one-to-one collaboration in music, dance, literature, theatre, film and the visual arts.

Both the Arts Initiative and the Young Laureates Programme provide the gift of time to exceptional young people at a key moment in their professional lives. Through Rolex’s support, these promising individuals are able to take their work to a new level and contribute to their surrounding communities and the wider world.