Professional Documents
Culture Documents
UAE Digest Jun '10
UAE Digest Jun '10
UAE Digest Jun '10
TRAVEL
Transit passenger tours
LIFESTYLE
DSS Where have all the tailors gone?
Shop and EMPLOYMENT
Demand for professionals
fun time TECHNO
Third dimension
6
DSS – Mall spending time
with free entertainment to
enjoy
8 18
Travel news Employment
Dubai sightseeing tours for airport transit Demand for highly-qualified
passengers international professionals
14 26
Same, same Third dimension on the tube
Tailoring memories and current snipping and Watch the magic of World Cup
stitching trends soccer in 3D at home and in clubs
h
aving spent many summers spring, Dubai Summer Surprises is an event What is Dubai summer surprises 2010
in this country, I am looking which encourages visitors to shop, save and all about?
forward to another hectic celebrate during nine weeks of entertain- Exploring Dubai is so much fun during
time in the heat with its ment. Just don’t forget your credit card! the summer. The region’s best shopping
shopping, socialising and sweating. The During the festival, also known as DSS, deals, world-class family entertainment,
first two s-words are enjoyed in air condi- Dubai’s vast malls get together to offer ma- giveaways worth millions of dirhams, and
tioned malls and rows of cool shops in the jor reductions across a wide range of goods. a choice of the Middle East’s finest spas
The pull is irresistible; over seven million await visitors. Around 50 luxury malls
shoppers flash their cash at this event. put out the best shopping promotions for
Live shows, children activities, rafles, shoppers while hosting entertainment
competitions and courses keep the whole shows throughout the summer. These
family happy while the shopaholics shop, include highly-acclaimed international
and hotels offer a variety of discounted shows, concerts, and exhibitions.
packages for those who want to make a What’s more, every shopper is re-
holiday out of it. warded for shopping with an opportunity
Since the first DSS in 1998, summers to win prizes and giveaways. To top it all,
in Dubai have never been mundane and visitors can choose from numerous spas to
DSS gives families and visitors something avail discounted rates for various health
exciting to look forward to year after year. and wellness treatments.
Dubai’s sun drenched beaches and golden Over 30 spas have confirmed their
sand dunes mingle with an infrastructure participation by lowering prices and of-
par excellence to give travellers a once-in- fering special treatments. Amara at Park
a-lifetime holiday experience of shopping, hyatt Dubai is one of these offering a
entertainment, winning and lifestyle, magnificent tribute to the ancient Moor-
in addition to Modhesh World – the re- ish palaces, the white exterior and royal
gion’s biggest indoor edutainment venue blue domes offer a welcoming entrance
for children, named after the popular into Amara, a private and secluded spa
cartoon character Modhesh. where exotic rituals have been created to
stimulate the senses, soothe and rejuve-
Tranquillity garden at Park Hyatt Dubai
Modhesh nate. The Spirit of the Summer
is a 45 minutes session featuring
older parts of town with plastic curtains an outdoor rain shower in your
keeping the hot air out of their premises. private terraced garden, a foot and
The last s-word is enjoyed - yes, I said hand rose petal bath, a 45-minute
“enjoyed”- around hotel pools, at spas and luxury body massage with sooth-
eating out al fresco style in the balmy eve- ing massage oils, a detoxifying
nings. 17 June sees the start of the annual fruit mocktail from the “healthy
Dubai Summer Surprises held throughout Living at hyatt” menu served
the town for visitors and residents to enjoy. poolside or in the Amara lounge,
It will officially end, with a big display of and full-day use of the 25-metre
fireworks, on 7 August. swimming pool with four whirl-
Second only to the frenzied bargain- pools, fragranced steam room,
hunting of the Dubai Shopping Festival in lounges, and gymnasium.
S
harp Middle East has launched a
unique air purifier for cars in the
GCC region equipped with its
own plasmacluster ion technol-
ogy, which helps improve air quality
by removing harmful airborne viruses,
cigarette and pet odour, and allergen.
The exclusive new product is the latest
in a range of products launched by Sharp
equipped with this technology, in which
positive and negative ions are released into
the air simultaneously. These ions are the
same found in abundance in nature, such
as forests, mountains and fields. The new
product recreates the natural process that
purifies the air in the earth’s atmosphere.
The purifier -- which fits neatly into a
car cup holder -- is designed to release
high-density of the ions following the
car’s interior airflow. It can be charged by
a cigarette lighter, and is available in the
UAE for Dh999.
Announcing the launch of the new experience”. are breathing forest fresh air even when
product, Fumio Yamaguchi, the Man- Since 2000, Sharp has been working inside or in indoor spaces. The technology
aging Director of Sharp Middle East, closely with academic research organisa- has been developed in line with interna-
said: “Sharp is delighted to introduce yet tions around the world -- including Ret- tional safety standards, making it an ideal
another world-class product. Our mission roscreen Virology Ltd, a world authority solution for home users and motorists”.
is to contribute to the well-being of society in virology -- in developing and assessing Sharp has a wide range of air purifiers
by providing products with plasmacluster the benefits of plasmacluster ion technol- suitable for rooms ranging from 20 to
ion technology, which can help improve ogy. It has successfully demonstrated that 48 square meters, as well as high density
air quality in homes and, now in vehicles. the technology can reduce the activity of plasmacluster ion generators for house-
In this region, many people suffer from 29 different harmful airborne microbes, hold and commercial applications. These
allergies and asthma due to poor indoor including the h1N1 influenza virus. include air purifiers, ion-generators, air
air quality. We believe that the new Manu Mahdi, General Manager of conditioners and refrigerators. Plasmaclus-
technology -- which has proven effective Sharp Middle East, said: “Sharp’s plasma- ter ion technology is also adopted in other
against mite allergens (the major trigger cluster ion technology is a one-of-a-kind industries, including vehicles and eleva-
for allergic asthma) -- will be one of the technology in which the positive and tors. The total sales of products equipped
best solutions for them. The purifier will negative ions generated are the same kind with Sharp’s plasmacluster ion technology
also contribute towards a healthy driving of ions which leave users feeling like they has reached 20 million units worldwide.
T
his year’s ATM, Arabian Trav- for transit passengers coming through the on the other.
el Market, was a bustling sight airport. These passengers do not have the Set to open this month, Kempinski
to behold. After the so-so opportunity to see the real Dubai and are will have its first hotel in Cairo, Egypt to
attendance at exhibitions and often restricted to staying within the air- showcase how understated and cool luxury
similar events this year, it was good to see port premises due to a lack of structured can be, introducing the art of simple
so many bodies walking around the newly alternatives. Launching this summer, things done beautifully.
expanded conference halls and rooms at Big Bus Tours will start operating regular Kempinski Nile hotel will be the first
DWTC, Dubai World Trade Centre. scheduled sightseeing tours that depart boutique hotel in Cairo offering things
Many countries set up their stands and from, and return to Dubai Airport. These that have not been offered in this vibrant
put on colourful shows to attract both two hour tours are designed to provide city before. This hotel will replace an old
businessmen and the public. There were passengers with the opportunity to see hotel on the river banks in one of Cairo’s
not so many give-aways as we have grown something of the city whilst they are here most strategic downtown spots.
accustomed to, and not a lot of brochures with the goal of encouraging them to “We offer a remarkable journey and
and pamphlets to pick up; but that just return at a later date to spend more time, create new traditions.” says the hotel’s
gave folks a chance to look intently at what either on vacation or for business. General Manager Axel Ludwig on how he
was on offer, ask questions, marvel at the oman launched several new hospital- plans to bring Kempinki’s vision to Cairo.
cultural dances and ceremonies, and do ity offerings, including the new Swiss-Bel “It’s not overloaded, but is understated
business. hotel Resort at Masirah Island which is and sleek, functional, beautiful, cosy and
With people in general being careful 15 kilometres off Oman’s east coast; an charming. With a philosophy of bor-
with their cash and looking for as much as island famous for its sandy beaches and rowing from the richest aspects of local
they can get for their money, it seems that as a nesting place for a number of turtle culture, 500 different paintings and 250
short break holidays are about to become species. The 5-star Salalah Marriott sculptures have been selected from local
more popular – with as many extras as pos- Resort is set on the southern shores of the artists to be placed throughout the hotel
sible included in the initial payment price, Arabian Gulf and serves as the first phase “art is one of the key values of the experi-
i.e. rooms, car hire, meals, spa treatment, of the Mirbat Beach project. Located in ences.”
round of golf, etc being favourite add-ons Oman’s northern Musandam Peninsula, The lobby is a chocolate lounge, offer-
to flights. Six Senses hideaway Zighy Bay offers ing a respite from the city with a little bit
big bus tours and Dubai internation- traditional village style (luxury) accom- of indulgence. “Chocolate makes people
al airport have linked up to provide an modation with the mountain range on happy and there’s so much positive energy
innovative new service designed specifically one side and 1.6 kilometres of sandy beach with it too.”
T
he economic environment expansion programmes, with rising lever- accelerated during the economic slowdown,
remains tough, and even if age predicated on growing profitability. even as bricks-and-mortar locations have
sustainable growth returns Then, in 2008 and 2009, retailers had to watched sales decline. Customers’ flight to
to key markets in the coming take a sharp turn away from expansion as online vendors is putting pressure on all
months, retailers are not assured success. In consumers cut spending and grew cautious retailers to develop strategies to integrate
fact, if the theme of 2009 was ‘survival at all amid the collapse of the housing and credit their traditional and online channels so
costs’, the theme for 2010 will be ‘who wins markets, massive job losses, and the sudden they can support and drive sales to one
next?’ Over the year to come retailers can need to pay down debt and rebuild cash another. For consumers, the walls between
either pursue strategies that help them build savings. online and offline are crumbling. For
a lead over the competition, or stay locked in The industry witnessed a wave of store retailers, the benefits of having an online
on actions that permit them merely to hang closings and bankruptcies. Last year’s holi- presence include far greater knowledge of
on until this slowdown claims them. day shopping season was the worst in the customers, more awareness of consumer
In 2010, global management consult- past 10 years and retailers resorted to dra- preferences, and an ability to drive sales
ing firm Booz & Company, see a winning matic markdowns to clear out inventories. through online-only discounts and broader
strategy with three elements: Those strategies, combined with consumers’ assortment without accompanying bricks-
• Develop ‘customer ownership’ tactics unwillingness to spend, destroyed pricing and-mortar infrastructure.
with active programmes aimed at deep- power across the industry. Given Booz & Co’s view that 2010 will
ening knowledge of consumer behaviours A modest rebound is now under way be another challenging year for retailers,
and segments. although consumers still remain wary. Job they believe that retailers who make effi-
• Create a seamless customer experience in losses continue, and easy access to consumer ciency a habit will not only emerge stronger
moving between the online and bricks- credit has been shut off. more swiftly, but will hold an advantage
and-mortar formats to bring new dimen- As retailers move beyond survival and longer.
sions to the entire store brand. cash-conservation mode, they should focus Low demand from customers has
• Move beyond on strategic investments in their defining prompted US luxury retailer Saks Fifth
The prolonged global economic recession strengths: processes, products, knowledge, Avenue to replace its store at The Walk,
trapped retailers in a downward spiral of capabilities, or some other advantage. Jumeirah Beach Residence with a discount
cost pressures, loss of pricing power, and With its convenience, security, range outlet store selling products from the previ-
falling demand. During the previous decade, of offerings, and built-in ability to deliver ous season’s collection, discounted at up to
retailers in all categories had launched major price comparisons, the online channel has 60 per cent.
Soboho, Dubai Marina Mall, prides itself on rarely repeat ordering even a fast moving item and so Inspired by the flagship store in USA,
once an item sells out, it will rarely be replenished, being replaced by newer fare. The shop is always Bloomingdale’s Dubai is a split contemporary
mixing it up so that regular customers get a different experience at the store every time store with splashes of
decorative elements
throughout both sides
from the signature black
and white checkerboard
floors in crystallized
marble to the hand
blown glass chandeliers
in Lingerie & Swimwear
and the fountain at the
heart of the Home store.
The home store is where
the first international
Magnolia Bakery sells its
renowned cupcakes.
T
he mood’s upbeat as far as There is an extravagant mentality and people
the Dubai retail sector goes. are always looking for the best.”
And, according to a new The two-inch truffles start with a
Jones Lang Lasalle report, ganache from 71 per cent Ecuadorean dark
there is a shift away from luxury brands chocolate mixed with Italian truffle oil and
towards competitive pricing, creative fresh cream which has been infused with
marketing programmes, convenience vanilla pods for 24 hours. This ganache is
shopping and value for money. From the wrapped around a French Périgord dark
retailer’s point of view, retail rent prices truffle mushroom, dipped in chocolate,
have gone down and as the report states and then rolled in cocoa powder. These
the offer of more flexible lease terms and indulgent concoctions and other chocolates
rent free periods will continue through- sold in the UAE will continue to be made
out 2010 and 2011 as Dubai’s shopping new super regional centres were expected by hand at the Knipschildt chocolatier in
sector realigns to retain value. It is also stated before the completion of the first phase of Connecticut, and flown overseas, said Fritz
that the Mirdif City Centre, which opened the Mall of Arabia in 2013. JLL said that Knipschildt, the company’s Maître Chocola-
last month, would be the last super centre to the reduction in the delivery of new retail tier and founder of the brand.
be built for at least three years. malls will give the market the necessary “Some companies pick up a concept, then
JLL added that the trend is likely to breathing space to absorb the high levels of find a manufacturer in that country, and it’s
result in the repositioning of both existing supply experienced in recent years. never going to be the same,” he said.” It’s not
and new retail centres away from the previ- however, striking a note of difference, going to happen with our brand. The truffles
ous focus on luxury brands towards value reminding people of the old ways of splurg- will be wrapped in the same gold bag in a
merchandising. The report predicted that ing and spending is Chocopologie, which silk lined box, but will have one touch of the
some ‘obsolescent or underperforming’ malls sells “La Madeline Au Truffe” for $2,600 a Emirates: it will be sitting on a bed of pearls,”
may be redeveloped or even in some cases pound, and who plans to open two outlets said Benali.
converted to other uses as owners seek to in the Emirates this year, confirmed Yassine Only 89 have been sold since Knipschildt
realign these properties to retain value. Benali, the General Manager of Saveur, started making La Madeline two years ago,
The report comes as Dubai retailers and which has the franchise rights for the but he expects this number to get a boost
mall owners reported a typical decline of brand. Affording shoppers will soon be able with its outlets in the UAE. But for those liv-
at least 20 per cent in retail sales in 2009 to buy the world’s most expensive chocolate ing a life less extravagant, Chocopologie will
although anecdotal evidence suggests truffle, at $250 (Dh920) each. also sell chocolates for as low as Dh100 a kilo
that sales are now starting to recover with These cafe boutiques are the first and the cafe food prices will be on par with
increased footfall and turnover reported by Chocopologie outlets other than its flagship other similar chains, stated Benali. however,
some retailers during this year’s Dubai Shop- in South Norwalk, Connecticut. they plan to have ‘five-star’ customer service,
ping Festival. The Dubai Chamber of Com- Benali stumbled upon the brand, the such as having staff tracking patrons’ prefer-
merce reported that total retail spending in retail arm of Knipschildt Chocolatier ences.
the emirate is expected to increase by around which makes famed chocolate creations, “We will have the same prices as if you
four per cent in 2010 and by more than eight three years ago while searching for the most are going to Shakespeare and Co,” he said.
per cent next year. expensive chocolates in the world to give “People are watching expenses more than
With financing difficult to achieve for as a gift. “Whoever ate the chocolate were three or four years ago, but we will have the
new mall developments and some sectors always talking about it and wanted more, same prices with a much better experience.”
of the market approaching saturation, so we thought, ‘ we should bring it to the The first outlet is expected to open in Dubai
several proposed future malls are likely to be UAE’,” Benali said. “Dubai is known for Festival City in July and in Abu Dhabi’s
delayed, the JLL report said, adding that no extravagant things, from real estate, to cars. Paragon Mall in the first quarter of 2011.
An iconic world
Icons are commodified to increase sales of products and to bring in a touch
of heroic quality to the item on sale. Do companies doing this draw the line
between the man and the product? Or reinvent the icon out-of-context,
depending on what the market demands?
By Manju Ramanan
T
here are well-known people, earlier too - there are some Gandhi loyalists Gandhi quotes.
the very famous ones, and who have reacted to the issue. What’s more, As reported by India’s Mint newspa-
a few who cross the line to they brought about a ban on the selling of per, when a writer looked at the image of
become world icons. Today, a the limited edition pen in India following Gandhi, bamboo staff in hand, which is
star’s publicity company might market him which India’s Supreme Court on May 3 engraved in the pen’s rhodium-plated nib
to popularity but not everyone becomes a accepted the luxury giant’s assurance that it and asked: “Where, really, was Gandhi
phenomenon – iconised the world over, not would stop selling the pens after the Solici- in all this?” Oliver Goessler, Montblanc’s
just in the country of their birth or fame, tor General issued a notification that the Regional Director for India, Africa and
many years after they are gone, in different name or image of Mahatma Gandhi, the the Middle East, stated the answer is:
countries across the globe. The few who Father of the Nation, could not be used for Everywhere. “Whatever brings Gandhi and
trudge this path see themselves commodi- commercial purposes. his ideas back to mind can only be good,” he
fied too which is accepted (albeit blindly According to the original plan, just said from hamburg, Germany.
too), revered, and at times rejected – if the 241 commemorative fountain pens were to While the pen is still available in Dubai,
commodity sold doesn’t stand up to the be sold — signifying the number of miles the issue opens up the debate between the
icon’s persona. Gandhi walked in his famous 1930 ‘salt world of popular culture fuelled by com-
The recent-in-the-news: Mahatma march’, a mass protest against salt taxes modification and the purist’s way that per-
Gandhi’s limited edition of the Mont Blanc levied by the British that dealt an early blow ceives a leader like a sacred icon , not to be
pen has been one such case. While the to their control over the subcontinent. The misrepresented or used out of context than
family, including Gandhi’s great grandson pens are handmade, adorned with Gandhi’s his/her philosophy. But there are exceptions
Tushar Gandhi (who admits that he’d never signature and a saffron-coloured opal. They to the rule. For instance, the iconic visage of
buy the pen because it is unaffordable to come with a 26-foot golden thread that Che Guevara is popularised, mass-produced
him and who says that his great grandfather can be wound around the pen to invoke and accepted widely and one of the com-
might have been amused at the whole thing), the spindle Gandhi used to weave plain monest icons that you see around, long after
doesn’t find anything new in the commodi- cotton cloth each day. The pens also come the revolutionary man passed away. his
fication of Gandhi, which has happened with a commemorative booklet of inspiring face adorns T-shirts, key chains and many
Same, same
By Linda Benbow
W
hen folks ask “how long
have you been in Dubai?”
during social conversa-
tions they are usually a bit
awed when I reply that we have lived in the
UAE since the late 1980s. “You must have
seen a lot of changes” is the next obvious re-
mark that follows, which nicely allows me to
reminisce about whatever aspect of life pops
into my head. Take tailoring, for example …
I remember the days when good clothes
shops were few and far between, and
luxury imported clothing was expensive too.
Karama, Deira, Sharjah souk, Abu Dhabi
souk and similar places were good places
for inexpensive tee-shirts and everyday
clothing, usually from the Far East, which
could be replaced every so often without a
flinch because the original price was so low.
Nowdays, this country has its own tailor-
ing manufacturers to provide inexpensive
clothing for the masses. ‘Made in the UAE’
is a regular tag seen on cotton clothing sold a tailor to copy “same, same”, give to the consisted of a number of speciality stitchers
in supermarkets, co-operatives and shops husband for the Thursday evening social sitting on cushions on the floor expertly and
around town. event, and returned to the tailor early friday nimbly sewing beads and feathers onto em-
hiring a man’s tuxedo can be costly evening for a final fitting check. Saturday broidered lace or other delicate materials for
especially when all the accessories for an morning would see a smiling wife returning evening and wedding dresses. All nationali-
evening of ‘formal a tuxedo suit to the hire ties used these ladies fashion houses, and
wear’ are added up. shop, then driving in her still do. Look closely and you will find them
Astute housewives, 4-wheel drive to the tailor in Al Khabais and Muraqqabat (I love that
however, used to to pick up the husband’s name, its difficult to say and then suddenly
play the timing newly stitched tux. A handy runs off your tongue in an exotic manner. I
game by hiring gambit that was a boon to like saying “Timbuctoo” too!).
a suit for their those with growing sons. Annual holidays were a time for taking
husband/son just Being a journalist, I was an empty suitcase back home, to be filled
before noon on a invited to visit up-market up with clothes and must-have items for
Thursday, know- ladies tailors and embroidery the coming year, as there were not that
ing full well that establishments. The front many choices in the fewer shops. If you
the shop would be of the shops usually had wanted something ‘different’ to wear at
closed on Friday, plush carpeting and chairs, the Christmas party you had to buy it from
so a 24 hour hire with curtained off rooms ‘back home’ and bring it to UAE with
period was really for measurement taking you. Otherwise you would end up wearing
a 48 hour period. and private viewings of something that everyone else had seen hang-
Plenty of time to unique dresses that could be ing on the rails here. I have been known to
take the tux to customised. Back-of-shop spend an entire evening avoiding someone
Hollywood abayas
The abaya has never been the same since Emirati
designer Lamya Abedin gave the traditional
attire an all new fashion statement. Having
dabbled so far with custom-made orders for very
special clientele, Abedin is now ready with her
own fashion label - Queen of Spades – which
launched last month at her brand boutique
at Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall. The latest
collection of individual ready-to-wear clothing
is themed on vintage Hollywood and takes its
inspiration from the glitterati of yesteryears.
“I have always been a fan of all things antique
and when my clients started telling me that they
feel like celebrities wearing my creations, I com-
bined their feedback with my love for timeless
fashion to create the newest line for my brand.
Classic fashion has always been the mainstay
in my collections and it always will be,” says Abe-
din showcasing pieces of her latest collection.
“In the 30s, 40s and 50s, styles such as tweed,
polka dots, pencil cuts, mermaid cuts or fish
tails, sequins and patchwork were used. So we
went about mixing those trends into the abayas.
I also used fabrics such as corduroy, leather,
chiffon, to create a blend of those decades. My
abayas are all about colour. For this collection,
I’ve created a completely navy blue abaya for the
first time. Then there’s the Retro set, which is all
about the bold colours for confident women.”
“No two abayas are the same,” says Abedin.
“Making unique garments is why I started de-
signing. I want my clients to go out confidently
dressed. And if they’re wearing one of my abayas,
they can rest assured that they’re the only ones in
the city to have it.”
Tailor made
Want a suit copied, get an old dress fitted to your current size or just wear
a perfectly tailored dress with the cut from the latest Bollywood film? –
tailors in the UAE will not cease to amaze
By Manju Ramanan
U
biquitous, in the vicinity of Perhaps, one of the best things about labour, though many shops will provide you
most textile shops, lives a the area is that shops selling Indian and with an all-in service. Shirts too can also be
largely unsung population of Pakistani goods are side by side and since copied or measured up from scratch at the
look-conscious Dubaites – tai- most people of these countries nearly wear Afghani market in Deira that has a good
lors! While they are found across the emir- the same kind of outfits, the customers choice of material.
ate, including newer areas like International have more choice. The Al Nahda Tailors have been in
City, they are largely concentrated over Mina “There used to be a lot of difference in Dubai since 1979 and specialise in menswear
Bazaar, Karama, Satwa and Bur Dubai. the way people dress. People from North while they have a separate branch catering to
Ever conscious to catch a new trend, be it an and Western India wore salwar kameez women called Madal Bushra. Karamat Ab-
embellishment in a branded suit or the latest and the ones from the South wore saris dul Razak , sales executive at Al Nahda states
Bollywood cut from a recent blockbuster, with fitted blouses. Nowadays, a lot of that about 30 tailors work at his shop. They
the tailors are hands-on at what they do. people wear salwar kameez because the hail from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
“A few years ago, short kurtas and patiala UAE consists of a working population and “We have two stores, one for men and
salwars were very fashionable. This happened the outfit is easier to handle. There used to one for women. We make trousers, suits
after the hindi film, ‘Bunty aur Babli’ be a time when people from India stocked and shirts at the Al Nahda and the other
was released where the lead actress Rani their outfits from there during their an- shop specialises in women’s wear. Usually
Mukherjee created a statement with her out- nual visits, in the last few years they prefer customers get magazines and ask us to copy
fits. Then, came the anarkali look with layers to rely on us since we give them the same the designs. Some ask for a Prada cut or a
of fabric. In fact, it still continues to be quite quality at affordable prices,” states Mansi Versace cut. These days people are into slim
a fad,” states Azmat Khan, a tailor from the Parekh, a former tailor who worked in a fits and some people are very particular about
Mina Bazaar area who has a lot of Pakistani shop in Sharjah. a two buttoned or a three buttoned style.
and Indian clientele, and some local ones. Mina Bazaar, also known as Cosmos The Westerners who come here prefer darker
The place near Khan’s shop is lined with Lane, is located close to Bank Street, colours for suits since we also sell fabrics.
shops selling fabric. which is also known as Computer Street; We make tuxedoes that are usually of two to
“A lot of people in Asian countries still has an array of tailoring shops – some can three types,” he states.
wear tailored clothes because they can copy suits very well and you can expect Ask him if he employs tailors or trains
choose the design and fabric and get it made to get a suit tailored between three days people here and he confirms about the latter.
accordingly instead of relying on haute to one week and need up to three fittings. “We train them here,” he states adding that
couture,” states a fashion designing student. Prices are split between material and the Arabic tailors usually cater to the local
man of Emirates Group, celebrated the Business School, commented on the The Emirates Academy of
graduation of the first ever cohort of Cass success of the first group of Dubai-based
Hospitality Management
Business School Dubai Executive MBA EMBA students: “Cass Business School
(EMBA) students recently during a cer- has successfully offered Executive MBA The first accredited Masters Degree in
emony held at DIFC. Launched in 2007 programmes in London for several years Hospitality Management in the GCC to
in association with DIFC, nineteen of the now, and we are extremely proud that our take place for 2010/2011 term
EMBA’s first students graduated at the first extension into the Middle East has The Emirates Academy of hospital-
ceremony, after completing the 24 month been equally as rewarding. Judging by the ity Management, a leading hospitality
programme that offers two specialisations: achievements and the high calibre of the management school and part of Jumeirah
Islamic Finance and Energy – a world first first cohort of graduates, the course will Group, the Dubai-based luxury hospital-
for an EMBA. certainly serve the intellectual needs of ity company and member of Dubai hold-
hE Ahmed humaid Al Tayer, the region and will allow executives to ing; was recently recruiting for its new
Governor of DIFC said: “The availability receive a world-class education at their Master of Science Degree in International
of a large number of talented and skilled doorstep.” hospitality Management - the first of its
business professionals is crucial for our This EMBA is a flexible part-time kind in the GCC region.
region to effectively take advantage of the course aimed at managers in the Gulf Commencing in October 2010, the
opportunities that growth and change are region who want to accelerate their programme is aimed at the hospital-
bringing. DIFC has brought together a career development whilst remaining ity leaders of the future, building on
variety of programmes that enable profes- in full-time employment. The course is the foundations laid by undergraduate
sionals to benefit from the very best of comprised of the same content as Cass’s studies with an emphasis on managerial
global management thinking, research London-based Executive MBA, which is competence. It is open to students con-
and practice. The availability of these ranked second in the UK and fourth in tinuing their education with the Academy
programmes gives UAE and GCC nation- Europe by the Financial Times. as well as external applicants looking
als an exceptional opportunity to obtain Cass Business School is ranked in the to advance their careers into executive,
globally top-ranked executive education top 10 UK business schools for business, corporate and senior management levels.
within the region.” management and finance, and classes for The programme can be completed in one
Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO the Executive MBA are delivered by Cass year based on a full-time study basis; the
of the DIFC Authority said: “World class academics who visit Dubai over a long option of a part-time programme is also
executive education programmes like weekend once a month. These lectures are available to allow students to combine
Cass’s are crucial for business profession- supported by the School’s online learning their studies with full-time employment.
Explorer of wilderness
Arabian Sands gives you a peep into a unique Bedouin lifestyle that is vastly
different from our modern urban existence, and is now all but forgotten
By Vanit Sethi
W
ith the comfortable life- nication. For Thesiger, however, the essence the Samburus in Kenya. The ease with which
style in modern-day UAE, of adventure is lost if one does not become a Thesiger moved from one culture to another,
it is difficult to imagine part of the landscape one is travelling in. he immersing himself completely in contrasting
a period of time when rejected all the material comforts of Western modes of life is indeed remarkable. It is said
life and everyday living was extremely harsh civilisation for a purer, simpler and more he could be dressed like an Englishman in the
for the local Arabs as well as foreigners who fulfilling way of life, in his eyes. morning, like a Bedu in the afternoon, and
ventured on these shores. Yet the Bedus went The book gives you a peep into a Samburu in the evening. his adventures in
through all the hardships of the desert the unique Bedouin Africa are aptly captured in the book Wilfred
with equanimity lifestyle that is vastly Thesiger in Africa, a collection of essays and
and a cheerfulness different from photographs by people known to him, most
rarely found in notably Alexander Maitland and David Atten-
those inhabiting borough. Maitland, in fact, has chronicled
today’s high-rise Thesiger’s travels like a labour of
structures. That’s love for a person unparal-
the message British leled in the explorers’ hall
explorer Wilfred of fame. Attenborough’s
Patrick Thesiger lengthy interview with
conveys in his book on Thesiger for the BBC delves
travel adventures across deep into the psyche of an
southern Arabia, The explorer who clearly “belonged
Arabian Sands. to another era, unconnected
Thesiger’s love for the with the present, and dreading of
simple bedoiun lifestyle the future”. So cut off was Thesiger
was so intense that he from modern civilisation that he
travelled along with the heard of man’s landing on the moon
nomads through the desert from an African tribal much after the
and lived like them – eating, event. Not that he cared much about
dressing et al. his sense the most epochal event of the twentieth
of adventure took him far be- our modern urban century!
yond where any modern explorer is prepared existence. It is an eye-opener for The photographs of his African sojourn
to go – in the process suffering all the hard- not only us expats, but even for young Ar- are brilliant. In fact, the camera was the one
ships that accompany a nomadic lifestyle in abs and Emiratis, who have little knowledge modern invention he was fond of, as it helped
the unforgiving desert landscape. of the lives their parents and grandparents him record his path-breaking trips into the
What makes him give up all the modern led. Wilfred Thesiger cherishes that austere unknown.
creature comforts is something difficult to existence which has all but disappeared. But all his adventures may have remained
comprehend. But the fact is that Thesiger But it was not only in the hot deserts of unknown to us were it not for some of his
enjoys those out-of-the-world adventures and Arabia that Thesiger found his true calling. publisher friends who persuaded him to get
the inconveniences that are an inevitable part In fact, the earlier years of his life were spent down to writing. While Wilfred Thesiger in
of the tribal way of life he willingly chose to in the thick, tropical jungles of Africa – Africa may still have seen the light of day, being
lead. his experiences may seem too much of mostly in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. As a recollection from various sources, the marvel-
a botheration for a modern-day explorer used he travelled and lived with the Bedus and the lous Arabian Sands owes a lot to Thesiger’s
to much faster modes of travel and commu- marsh Arabs in Iraq, he became one among well-wishers, of whom they are quite a few.
T
future. Moshiri, Ehsai, Aghdashloo, Neshat, Al Rais,
he Dubai International Financial The viewpoints developed by the art- Ermes and Mostafa.
Centre (DIFC) has become a ists in the exhibition are a result of their Farjaan Collection’s earlier exhibitions
hotspot for artists, exhibitors individual reflections on their specific include highlights of Islamic Art, The holy
and art lovers. It regularly hosts places of residence. While those inside their Qu’ran, and Works on Paper by Modern
exhibitions from artists across the globe, homeland work within their own cultural Masters.
primarily focusing on those from the Middle and political setting, those living in the
East, North Africa and South Asia (Menasa) diaspora are reacting to their new environ-
region. The Farjam Collection – a private col- ments and struggling to form a new identity. The Hafiz Foundation
lection – routinely showcases some gems from This exhibition presents these two groups of The Farjaam Collection at the DIFC
its kitty for the public. In addition, it hosts artists side by side for the first time. is supported by The hafiz Founda-
a unique concept called First Wednesdays, The exhibition has had a successful run tion, which was founded in 2008
wherein anyone interested in art can visit an at The Chelsea Art Museum in New York to support outstanding initiatives
exhibition on the first Wednesday lunchtime City and the DePaul University Museum within the visual arts, with a special
of every month and they will be provided in Chicago. Around 40 works – including emphasis on the greater Middle East.
with an educational trip through the exhibits painting, sculptures, and mixed media -- are With the city of Dubai as its base, the
by experts. Currently, the exhibition Iran exhibited in its first appearance outside the foundation aims to become a centre
Inside Out is running until June 15. United States. for production, preservation, and
Curated by Sam Bardaouil and Till “These works draw upon a common promotion of the arts at large. At the
Fellrath, it examines the ways in which artists Iranian heritage and identity, and also speak heart of the Foundation’s goals is the
working inside and outside Iran reconcile of universal and contemporary concerns. The development of educational opportu-
cultural and geographical distances with responsibility of artists is the same, regard- nities for young Middle Eastern art-
the search for individual expression. Of the less of their country of origin: to cultivate ists, students, scholars, curators, and
works on display, Farhad Moshiri, Khosrow imaginations and infuse in the viewer a sense art enthusiasts.
hassanzadeh, Farideh Lashai and Vahid that everything is possible,” commented As a partner to both local and
Sharifian reside in Iran, while others such as Emilie Faure, Collections and Exhibitions international cultural initiatives, the
Shiva Ahmadi, Sara Rahbar and Rokni and Manager, The Farjam Collection. foundation’s recent activities include
Ramin haerizadeh, are settled in different The Farjam Collection is one of the having supported the founding of the
countries. Interestingly, those living abroad finest privately-owned art collections in the award-winning Middle Eastern arts
often draw more on their cultural heritage, world today. Spanning vast historical and magazine Bidoun, support for local
while those living in Iran focus on issues of geographical spectrums, it includes treasures arts education programs, as well as
everyday life and try to explore more of the from ancient Islamic art, works by modern the organization of a series of exhibi-
outside world. But within these disparities, Western masters such as Picasso, Braque, tions displaying selected works from
one element stands strong: the recurrent ref- Matisse and Giacometti, as well as an the Farjam Collection.
erences - sometimes ambiguous and at other impressive selection of works from contem-
times emotional - to Iran, its past, present and porary Iranian and Arab artists including
A perfect body
ment of all skin or sub-skin tumours
• Secondary treatments of congenital
abnormalities
P
aesthetic surgery specialities
regnancy, weight loss or gain, • Facial rejuvenation: face lifts, peel-
accident or illness can all change ings, lasers, eyelid surgery, correc-
the shape and tone of your body. A tion of ears and nose, Botox and
host of body and facial rejuvenat- fillers
ing therapies are, thankfully, available today • Body re-contouring with liposuc-
but not all of us are aware about these. Dr tion and fat re-injections
Catherine Bergeret-Galley (MD), an interna- • Obesity aesthetic sequelae, lipecto-
tional board-certified plastic surgeon, made a mies and bodylifts
special presentation at Coral Beach Resort – • Buttocks enhancement
Sharjah on the different options available for • Breast aesthetic surgery
facial and body rejuvenation. • hair restoration with micrografts,
She explained, “Aesthetic treatments flaps and tonsural reduction
have improved beyond measure over the last • Skin quality improvement: scars,
few years. All women did in the past was stretch marks and acne sequelae
to cleanse, tone and moisturise their faces.
That is not the case today. You can now take
your pick from lifting, firming, exfoliating, Dr Catherine Bergeret-Galley
skin-softening, hydrating, rejuvenating as
well as indulging in an array of high-tech her mouth, I ask myself if altering those often trump surgery. If the skin is mildly
techniques.” lines is really the answer.” She said, “Will it wrinkled and / or pigmented, the laser can
Dr Catherine caters to an A-list clientele alter the personality of her face, rather than be a good option.
across the Middle East and Europe and splits making her look more youthful?” “The stem-cell facelift is becoming
her time between Paris and Dubai. Dr Catherine specialises in aesthetic and increasingly popular too,” Dr Catherine
Continuing on the subject, Dr Catherine, reconstructive surgery and has over two and explained. It is carried out under local
said, “If you diet and work out obsessively to half decades of experience in addition to anaesthetic and fat is harvested from the
achieve a super svelte physique, the chances prestigious degrees from USA and France. patient’s body manually using a syringe,
are that your cheeks will be sunken and your She said: “The focus today is more on facial usually from the lower abdomen where there
skin will look baggy and wrinkled. Put up rejuvenation than on facial reconstruction. is a plentiful supply. This fat is rich with
with a fuller figure, and your face will have The results from lipolyse laser are similar regenerative cells which include stem cells,
a plumper, more youthful feel. As a result, to liposuction. It is ideal for treating areas blood vessel-producing cells, and growth
facial fillers are finding favour with a younger such as the knees and ankles. The laser is in- factor secreting cells. The fat is processed
clientele.” troduced into the skin using a small needle through a machine which ‘cleans’ the cells
What’s wonderful about Dr Catherine is to treat the offending fat, which is heated, which we then inject with the fat and stem
she addresses each of her patients need indi- broken down and then disposed of through cells around the muscles and into the soft
vidually and carefully analyses how best to the lymphatic system.” skin tissues in the face. It is a complete facial
achieve their desired outcome. “If a woman “Again, when it comes to treating aging rejuvenation without involving surgery and
comes to me to correct the fine lines around skin around the eyes, laser resurfacing can is very safe.”
I
n electronic entertainment, the next – content. As content in 3D is still limited, course, a lot depends on pricing and the easy
big revolution is 3D, which will be up and it may be a while before software availability of 3D content.
and running this month on TV sets catches up with hardware, Sony positioned
the world over, in time for the soccer itself as pioneers in both worlds. Style statement
World Cup in South Africa. Five television hiroyasu Sugiyama, General Manager, The next 3D announcement came on April
giants have already announced their plans 3D Strategy Office, Sony Corporation, 13, when Panasonic announced its line-up.
towards that end within the space of three Japan, announced: “In the 3D space, Sony Not too late, considering that consumer
months. Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, LG is uniquely positioned compared to other interest had not yet peaked. Besides, the
and Sharp have set the pulses racing with consumer electronics makers because we World Cup fever had just begun taking
announcements of the new innovations in are not only going to sell 3D-compatible hold. Panasonic moved in for the kill with
their product line-up. There was one mantra consumer hardware, but also ensure there is its plasma high-definition TV – the Viera
in almost all the press gatherings: 3D; and affluent variety of 3D content that consum- 2010 range, featuring a 50-inch screen size,
one date to reveal its true colours: 11 June ers can enjoy.” in addition to the new 3D Blu-ray player
2010, the day the World Cup soccer kicks off Being in the TV broadcasting industry - DMP-BDT300. Plasma technology’s
at the Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg, - apart from producing playstation games advantage - such as cross-talk reduction,
South Africa. - gives Sony that edge over its competitors crisp and clear high quality moving pic-
who are all into hardware alone. In addi- tures, enhanced luminance efficiency and
Content is king tion, they will film major sporting events in improved picture quality – gets sharper with
sony came out first with its 3D armoury on 3D (FIFA World Cup and Sony Open in 3D. Confident of this advantage, Pana-
February 17. Probably aware of the competi- hawaii - a golf tournament organised by the sonic’s MD for Middle East Marketing, Seiji
tion in the offing, it displayed both its hard PGA Tour) that will be made available to Koyanagi, said the company was targeting a
power and soft power. While the sales battle consumers through various channels. The market share of 50 per cent in the large size
will continue in the hardware segment, the early entrant here will, in all probability, 3D TV segment by 2012.
company proudly announced its trump card catch the consumers and viewers. But of The company now offers a line-up of
Osamu Mura, Managing Director, Sony Gulf, displaying the 3D glasses Panasonic’s 50-inch Viera TV’s 2010 range
Models showcasing Samsung’s Full HD 3D TV with the eyewear LX9500 from LG, which employs shutter-glass technology
LG May 10, 2010 Dual sensors and LED TVs, Blu-ray disc
3D animation show in expansive picture players, 3D home projectors
Arabic
Classic Media acquired Worldwide TV Sharp May 14, 2010 Quad pixel technology LCDs, LEDs etc
and home Entertainment distribu-
tion rights (exclusive for Middle East)
for brand new pre-school series Nan &
Lili. Created by multi-award-winning
director and executive producer Firdaus MILESTONES IN 3D CINEMA
Kharas of Chocolate Moose Media for First 3D film: The earliest confirmed 3-D film shown to a paying audience was The
Al Jazeera Children’s Channel (JCC), Power of Love, which premiered at the Ambassador hotel Theater in Los Angeles
this is the first ever Arabic animated on September 27, 1922.
pre-school series. The show is created for Latest 3D film: Avatar (2009) has gone on to be one of the most expensive films
a global audience of pre-school boys and of all time, with a budget at $237 million. It is also the highest-grossing film of all
girls (2-4yrs), designed to engage young time.
viewers in a playful way while educat- Most successful 3D films: Bwana Devil (1952), Man in the Dark (1953); house
ing and empowering them through a of Wax (1953); Revenge of the Creature (1955); September Storm (1960); The
world of exploration and discovery. The Stewardesses (1970); Echoes of the Sun (1990); Avatar (2009)
episodes (200x3mins) are currently
available in three languages: Arabic,
English and French, with a further 100 MILESTONES IN TV INDUSTRY
episodes in development for delivery • 1926: John Logie Baird invented and introduced the first TV system in
later this year. London, England on January 26, 1926.
Presented in novel 3D animation, • 1928: The Baird Television Development Company first transmitted TV
Nan & Lili are two cute and funny signals across the Atlantic Ocean, from London to New York.
characters, joined by a range of animals • 1948: Cable television, formerly known as Community Antenna Television
including camels, sheep, goats and or CATV, was born in the mountains of Pennsylvania.
elephants as they play and learn together. • 1953: Colour television system first began commercial broadcasting on
During its first broadcast year, the December 17, 1953.
programme won several international • 1956: The TV remote controller first entered American homes in June
awards. 1956. Called ‘Lazy Bones’, it was developed in 1950 by Zenith Electronics
Corporation.
• 1962: The first satellite television signal was relayed from Europe to the
Telstar satellite over North America.
• 1964: The very first prototype for a plasma display monitor was invented by
Donald Bitzer, Gene Slottow, and Robert Willson.
• 1996: Web TV was first rolled out.
• 2010: The arrival of 3D TV.
Firdaus Kharas, creator of Nan and Lili; Malika Alouane, Director of Programming at Al Jazeera
Children’s Channel and Baraem TV, Chloé van den Berg, Executive Vice-President, Classic Media
28 l UAE Digest, June 2010
HOSPITALITY
World Cup
viewings
N
o matter what your opinions a large selection of International malts which can be redeemed against food and
are on football, the World to be enjoyed whilst you cheer on your beverages in the Public Arena. Children
Cup being held in South Af- team’s match viewed on the flat screens. below the age of 10 years will have the op-
rica this month, the chances Every game, every goal and every pen- portunity to play in a supervised children’s
are that you will be invited to socialise alty of the premier international football zone and access The Arena free of charge.
with those who want to watch their chosen tournament staged in South Africa is The Arena opens on all football match days
country team on the games being shown broadcast live in The Arena at Jumeirah one hour prior to the first game.
on television screens in pub and clubs. Beach hotel. An air conditioned football The matches will be telecast live at the
Join in the World Cup fever in arena in the Conference Centre, with a JW Marriott Dubai on the huge plasma
shangri-la Hotel, Qaryat al beri, abu capacity of up to 600 guests, will feature TV screens at Champions Sports Bar and
Dhabi and experience the excitement in live football action on state-of-the-art the with speciality dishes from the countries
a fully air-conditioned football tent in super-size screens paired with intelligent that are playing, at German hofbräuhaus.
the Plaza Bar with the world’s largest wall lighting and audio. With free entry to There are lots of competitions and prizes to
television. Get your adrenaline pumping The Arena, guests will purchase a voucher be won at both venues.
with surround sound system and cheer booklet at Dh100 per person for adults Catch the action live at the radisson
on your favourite team with drinks and and Dh50 per person for guests between blu Hotel, Dubai Media City. For the
delicious snacks. A live DJ will be spinning the age of 10 and 17 years on arrival, entire World Cup season the hotel offers
chilled out tunes during breaks. two stylish venues to watch the games
Open from 1pm to 1am daily from and enjoy fabulous hospitality. Watch
11th June to 11th July. your favourite teams battle it out on
Dubai Creek golf & Yacht one of the large plasma TV screens
Club also has an air conditioned at Icon Bar & Lounge, offering tasty
tent at Qd’s for folks to watch the food from all participating countries
matches in style, whilst still enjoying and a great bucket deal to guarantee
the atmospheric experience gazing real football fever.
out over the Creek - with buckets Every four years, the world’s sports
on offer and nibbles to match. fans share an experience unlike any
Plus, Lakeview and the Boardwalk other in its intensity, its drama, its
will also be hosting the footie, so exultation, its heartbreak: the World
something for everyone! Cup, a tournament involving 32
This June as football frenzy countries from almost every corner
descends, Park Hyatt Dubai of the globe. For a month, it will
is offering a choice of two transform the belgian beer Café,
football zones: its waterfront at the grand Millennium Dubai at
bar, The Terrace, in addition to a Tecom, Barsha, into perhaps the city’s
specially constructed enclosed air best party scene. Try BBC’s famous
conditioned balcony at The Thai mussels with fries with your Belgian
Kitchen. A World Cup food menu beverages. For the duration of the
has been created and there will be an World Cup, there will be daily lucky
array of South African vintages and draws with great prizes to win.
Kick starting
sporting
careers
Young hopefuls at-
tended TESA open
day in April having
heard of the success
rate of the sporting
S
academy, testimony to
ki Dubai, the world-famous attraction from its high calibre train-
Majid Al Futtaim Leisure, has many registered ing and contacts with
participants for the UAE’s first endurance chal- top clubs
lenge to be held on snow. Modelled on the world’s Dubai-born Mo-
toughest commando assault course, the Aprilia Ice Warrior roccan brothers Yousef
Challenge will help raise money for charity providing and Saleem Bouvezgui
specialised education and therapy for children with various are both to trial with
TESA rugby students at the London Wasps training ground
disabilities. English Champion-
The challenge will see participants pushed to the limits ship side Gillingham FC, having been hand-picked by visiting Chairman Paul
of mental and physical endurance, as they compete to finish Scully. Scully had flown to Dubai to visit Transguard Elite Sporting Academy
the assault course in sub-zero temperatures. Participants can (TESA) which is based at the Repton School in Nad Al Sheba and was so
be sponsored by friends and family and the person raising impressed with the brothers he invited them both to train with Gillingham’s
the most money will win a Motorbike worth Dh20,000, youth team over the summer.
donated by Aprilia, manufacturer of high performance mo- In addition, a further six children from TESA have been chosen to go for
torbikes. Additionally, the person to complete the challenge trials at Newcastle United. These include 10-year-old Charlie Abbott, who has
in the fastest time will claim the title of “Ice Warrior 2010” previously spent time at the Everton Academy. The six boys going to Newcastle
and a great prize from De Walt tools, totaling Dh4,500. United FC are also products of the Repton School-based sports academy and
Lucas Marchand, Operations Manager, Ski Dubai will be under the watchful eye of former England star turned Newcastle Acad-
commented: “It is very exciting for us to be building one of emy Director Peter Beardsley as they undertake a week’s trial at the club.
the most difficult assault courses here. This event will be a Carlton Palmer, former Sheffield Wednesday and England midfielder and
personal achievement that people can be proud of. This is TESA’s head football coach, added: “We have some very talented kids here and
a wonderful initiative that will not only raise money for a it’s great to be able to reward them with the trip to Newcastle.”
noble cause, but also see contestants draw upon their will- But it’s not just TESA’s football recruits who have caught the eye of some
power, strength and determination to complete the contest.” of Britain’s top clubs; three of its rugby players have been for trials with Sale,
The course will span over two kilometres and contain a London Wasps and Northampton. Duncan Yates, 17, Danny Tusitala, 17 and
web of challenges like commando crawl on a vertical slope, 18-year-old Johnny Luteru enjoyed time trialling and being coached by the likes
tyre runs and other gruelling activities. Scheduled to start at of former England rugby union and league legend Jason Robinson.
6 am on Friday June 4.
Flight to disaster
By Con Clude
O
n a lazy Saturday morning, indeed fickle and without any logic. years, under a coalition with the Liberal
I was woken up by a phone May all the souls of the departed rest in Democrats. The British election proved
call from a neighbour peace. to be a historic one, as it was marked by
who asked us to switch on many firsts. It was the first time since
the TV. And there, we saw the breaking On terror’s trail United Kingdom general election, Febru-
news of a plane crash in Mangalore in the The shadowy world of international ter- ary 1974” 1974, and only the second
southern Indian state of Karnataka. The rorism throws up rude and unexpected time since the Second World War, that a
plane was carrying 160 Indian passengers surprises. The 26/11 accused Ajmal British general election returned a hung
living in the UAE to the lush green coastal Amir Kasab has been sentenced to death parliament. For the first time in the UK,
town, many of whom were on vacation, to by an Indian court; David Coleman the three main party leaders engaged in
attend a wedding, a funeral, admission of headley stands trial in the US for the a series of televised debates. The Liberal
children into colleges and other obliga- Mumbai attacks; and Faisal Shahzad, a Democrats garnered the largest popular
tions. naturalised American, has been a prime vote since the party’s creation in 1988,
It is impossible for many people living suspect of the Times Square bomb- and they found themselves in a pivotal
here to believe that the friends, relatives ing plot. All three accused trace their role in the formation of the new govern-
and colleagues they knew so well are no roots to Pakistan. While Kasab was a ment.
more. harshini Punja, an ex-student of child brought up in a poverty-stricken, This was the first time since 1979
Our Own English high School, was out remote region of the country, headley that none of the three main party leaders
with some of her friends at a mall the (real name Dawood Syed Gilani) and headed a previous general election cam-
evening before the tragedy. Going for Shahzad have had a privileged upbring- paign. Thirty five per cent of the voters
a family wedding with her parents, she ing in the United States, but somehow supported a party other than Labour
tweeted: “The only thing I’m looking got mixed up with radical co-religionists or the Conservatives - the highest such
forward to are the rains.” In our neigh- on their visits to Pakistan. Curiously, figure since the 1918 general election.
bouring building in Sharjah, two children headley has also been accused by the The Green Party won its first seat in
were left orphaned as their parents died Indian authorities of being a double the Commons, and the Alliance Party
in the crash. The devastated kids couldn’t agent for the CIA. of Northern Ireland its first seat at the
stop crying. In a building in Karama, a All the strange twists and turns ballot box.
large extended family of 14 perished in the in these three men’s lives could well The UK is now getting prepared
crash. My colleague’s spouse kept reading make up an interesting hollywood or for a new political season. The volatile
the last message of his friend: “I’m going Bollywood movie. But what surprises markets will soon get used to a coalition
out for my final shopping before the vaca- most right-thinking people is how government and react more favourably
tion.” The SMS seemed to have just frozen can apparently well-to-do individuals to the new dispensation. More govern-
on his mobile. suddenly become radicalized? And why ments across the world will learn to live
They are many more stories like this do all the terror trails inevitably lead to with the reality of coalition politics. The
coming out every day. All the Indian Pakistan? Something seems seriously Indian political system has been used
channels were abuzz with detailed cover- wrong somewhere! to coalition governments for a while
age, spot visits, discussions and arguments. now, managing quite well on the whole,
Now, it seems the black box alone may Labour’s love lost maintaining a high GDP growth rate too.
provide clues to what actually happened. With David Cameron now occupy- In fact, coalition governments offer a new
What can you tell people who have ing 10 Downing Street, the Tories are way of working together, and that may be
lost their loved ones? Life, at times, seems back in power in the UK after 13 long the way of the future.