1. DECEMBER 2011

3. When we started to put together the December issue it became quickly apparent there was no way to stem the outpouring of love, artistic
expression and reminiscing of good times experienced in the UAE. So we succumbed totally and decided to dedicate the the whole magazine to the
UAE’s 40th birthday.
We dedicated Tempo’s Heart and Soul Bazaars in the last two months to the UAE’s national day, we worked with Abu Dhabi TV on mini vignettes
by members of the community entitled “I LOVE UAE,” we invited artists to communicate their dedications on canvas and we talked to Emiratis and
expatriates about their thoughts and their dreams. Interestingly, the overriding theme in these chats and activities was about how the UAE had
managed to host a multi-national population, to nurture a mosaic of cultures and communities, and to provide a sense of harmony and belonging
to all.
We should look back at the past year in world history as a time of challenge and change and embrace the new year with hope, and with the very
qualities that have made the UAE so loved by its people.
Happy Birthday UAE, and Happy New Year to all.
Sana Bagersh
Managing Editor
bagersh@tempoplanet.com
letters to the editor 04 18 blueprint MANAGING EDITOR
uspace 05 20 time capsule
Sana Bagersh
art dedication
06 21 game hedz | uae diversity
FEATURES EDITOR
Alma Kadragic
dedication online
10 22 doc in the house | dedication to nation EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
poem dedication
11 23 just handcrafted | mum unlimited
Sharon Carvalho
bu tinah island
12 24 articulate | mini minx
MAGAZINE DESIGN
Mark De Castro
citybites 13 25 yank in the sandland | just a thought MARKETING COORDINATOR
happy birthday uae 14 26 wanted: emirati entrepreneurs
Manjul Abhishek
Laskar Laipubam
people calendar 16 27 media column | tamakkan DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR
29 horoscope
Melaku Muluneh
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Angeli Castillo Blakniss
Dave Solomon Manar Al Hinai
Neena Rai Randy Parker
Preethi Janice D’Sa Sarah Widdup
ADDRESS DISCLAIMER Sara Taher Ahmed Samir
To reach editorial at Abu Dhabi Tempo email: editorial@tempoplanet. Tempo is a publication of BrandMoxie. Although Tempo Magazine
com. If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: 02 667 does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, Ian Mason Justin Thomas
3349 or check out the list of Tempo distribution points on our website. the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors, mistakes and Noura Abdullah Al Noaimi Rohith Bhat
inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no
NOTE TO ADVERTISERS part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means
Advertisers can request brand tagging with all advertisements. without the permission of the publisher.
To reach advertising call 02 667 3349 or
email: advertising@tempoplanet.com. MEDIA LICENCE NO. 1/105866/24295
download www.gettag.mobi Scan the QR CODE using your smart phone
to your smart phone Published by }
run application for Blackberry this is done through BBM
click on tag beside each article to have fun with for iPhone download BeeTag or Neo Reader
online content, videos & cool tags!

4. Dear Ed,
It’s great how Tempo got amateur film makers an opportunity. I can’t wait to
see the “I Love UAE” videos on Abu Dhabi TV on national day. Looking forward
to more cool activities for the community - Sam R
Dear Tempo,
Thanks for the “Gmail” tip in your Bottom Line column. I was horrified when
I checked the link at the bottom of my gmail email page and saw other
people were accessing my account. I couldn’t change the password fast
enough - Osman Saeed
Dear Tempo,
I thought your November issue was outstanding. The story
on Mohammed Otaiba of Imagenation, the Cat Superheros,
the Emirati film makers, the youth orchestra. More features,
we want more! - Nitta S.
Awesome! Abu Dhabi Anime Club (J-AMFM) is now featured in Abu Dhabi Tempo Magazine. Please
go get a copy! Thanks Tempo for giving us the opportunity - Abigail Kerr
Was really fun! :) Will you be hosting more like that? - Jose Tuaño
Well done Tempo - it was We came in late but it was still Had a blast at Tempo’s Bazaar. YAY! I’m in this month’s @
awesome. Love my new awesome. Got lots of books! Great job, Tempo! Love my new AbuDhabiTempo magazine along
Fantabulous! Great job Tempo! Ray Bans that I purchased for a with a GREAT group from the “I love
colourful throw! fraction of the real price! Can’t
- Hana Makki More to come! UAE” video competition. So exciting!
- Bearose Karmel Velarde wait for next month. See ya - Sally Abdel Razak
there! - Yasser Bagersh
QUESTION RESULTS OF LAST MONTH’S VOTE:
Q: Who would you most like to see perform in the UAE?
What was your favourite film series of
the year?
1) Fast and Furious Series 72% 17% 11% 0%
2) Twilight Saga SAID SAID SAID SAID
3) Harry Potter Series YES, I WANT YES, I WANT YES, I WANT YES, I WANT
TO SEE ADELE TO SEE TO SEE U2 TO SEE
4) Transformers
PERFORM LADY GAGA PERFORM PITBULL
5) X-Men PERFORM PERFORM
Go to tempoplanet to vote

5. THE TOTALLY CLUELESS PERSON’S GUIDE:
MOVING TO THE UAE By Rohith Bhat
ABU DHABI MALL PRESENTS THE
“ABU DHABI MALL WINTER CHARITY FAIR”
IN AID OF MÉDECINS SANS FRONTIÈRES (MSF)
Friday 9th December 2011 | from 11am to 9pm
Visit the Winter Charity Fair at Abu Dhabi Mall and help contribute to the humanitarian
efforts of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). All proceeds from table rentals will be
donated to the MSF to help them along with their worthy cause.
Well it all started out simple enough: Dad got transferred to the U.A.E. and Come along with your family and friends to this exciting fair and purchase original
the rest of the family had to move along for the ride. So, like any typical handicrafts and souvenirs from the best artists and craftspeople.
geek I decided the best thing to do would be to research. I spent hours
scouring though informative volumes of information like the Arabian Stop by the MSF stall to buy secondhand books of various genres at bargain prices.
Nights, Disney’s Aladdin, A Camels’ Tale and Lawrence of Arabia… Boy did MSF will be hosting a raffle with fantastic prizes to win brunches, hotels stays, thrilling
that not pan out!! When I got to the U.A.E. it was nothing like anything I marine & water park experiences, delicious cupcakes and lots more!
had read! Where were the flying carpets? Where were the belly dancers?
Where were the camels and, more importantly, where were the Arabs? For more information, contact:
MSF at 02-6317645 or by email at info-msfuae@msf.org
Finding them amongst the sea of Americans, Filipinos and Indians turned Abu Dhabi Mall at 02-6454858 or
out to be as entertaining as a game of “Where’s Waldo” but after that, well, Email at customerservice@abudhabi-mall.com
the disappointment set in. True, there was shopping and a sense of history
and culture but there was a distinct lack of flying carpets that brought the
whole thing down.
On the plus side it was good to find out that there were the no taxes,
something that got me a raise in allowance… But I couldn’t figure out
why, and rather sad to find out, that my sister seemed to be way too happy
about move. Why does that make me sad, you ask? Not because of the
sadistic gene that most brothers carry that makes me say this, but rather
the reason itself, the dreaded SHOPPING!
Pack mules know, and brothers and boyfriends everywhere can sympathise,
with my plight here! And it’s not just one or two places that she’ll visit
once and then get sick, OH NO!!! There are hundreds places in this country STUDENTS SHINE AT THE FESTIVAL OF THINKERS!
for shopping! Not to mention sales every week or so! It makes my sister
giddy, but it almost makes me want to jump in front of a car on the road! Students from the British School Al Khubairat, posing with HH Sheikh Nahayan Bin
But considering the cars here, I may end up damaging a BMW and if that Mabarak Al Nahayan and the Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology, HE
doesn’t get me a ticket, don’t know what will!! Tayeb Kamali.
An afterthought, I just decided to have a shawarma…ahh, yes shawarma From left to right: HE Tayeb Kamali, Ahmed Hraiz, Mohammed Kamali, HH Sheikh Nahayan
in the UAE… come for the cheap fuel cost, and stay for the shawarma!! Bin Mabarak Al Nahayan , Mohamed Al Darmaki, Karam Bukair, Nader Saab, Omar El-
Temtamy and Khayouf

6. art Tempo invited local artists to a “paint-off” where they were supplied with canvas and paint
and had to express their thoughts and ideas of life in the UAE, and the UAE’s 40th Anniversary,
on the spot. Here we present 14 artworks painted by Emirati and expatriate artists.
dedication
The balancing act between tradition and innovation is
something every country has to face, but for the UAE it is more
so as it is a very young nation growing ever so fast and evolving
rapidly. I hope my painting shows how successful Abu Dhabi
copes with conflict, despite all the modernism and plastic
scenery, natural and pure moments can still be found in the
many side alleys. You just have to keep your eyes open.
-Anna Eckert
Marek Mihok
Anna Kurkova
It was said that the term camel from the Arabic ‫ ,جمل‬ğml,
derived from the triconsonantal root signifying “beauty”.
I believe “beauty” perfectly describes not only the camel
but also the United Arab Emirates. Therefore this drawing
is a dedication to the UAE by both emphasizing and
demonstrating its beauty. Happy 40th birthday UAE!
-George Hung

7. My artwork was inspired by the vast changes that have taken place in
the UAE over the past 40 years; it signifies how an ever-growing nation
has managed to change the native land from desert to a country filled
with the tallest of buildings and the most advanced of institutions while
doing whatever it takes to maintain the ropes of tradition and culture
and to conserve the intricate bonds between family and friends.
-Huda Al Shaikh
I wanted to take an impressionistic
approach to describing a familiar landscape
in Abu Dhabi that would then be overrun
by intentional lines giving form, direction,
and purpose; a clear setting derived from an
ever shifting landscape of sand, buildings,
and streets.
-James Hunt
Unity and keeping the ancient culture alive enrich the
nation and its future generation…that to my eyes is
the UAE. And I see it through their traditional boat, the
dhow that moves towards a promising future with feet
firmly on the ground and hands embracing the rich Arab
culture and heritage.
-Johanna Legaspi

8. Inspired by my positive interaction with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,
I tried to show the tolerance, love and mutual understanding between
different cultures in the painting. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque introduces
a vision of tolerance rooted in the traditions of the golden Islamic era.
Traditions based on respect and exchange of ideas for the enrichment
of human life and history. Additionally, the mosque aims to serve as
a platform to enhance culture and knowledge in Abu Dhabi and the
surrounding region by organizing activities that seek to promote a culture of
tolerance, love, rationality and mutual dialogue.
-Ruchi Kansal
Kee Ryung Kim
Shivangi Nanda
My painting is a metaphor for progress. The trail of the abaya
and flag lead up to a woman which signifies how gracefully and
beautifully the country has developed and bloomed. The abaya
highlights that the country has preserved its culture amidst the
urbanisation it is going through. Forty years since its birth, the
country stands strong, and undoubtedly, it will see more years of
growth and prosperity.
-Shanice DaCosta

9. My painting is a symbolic patchwork of the UAE’s past, present
and future. Everything is connected through the horizon of the
desert representing time: from Sheikh Zayed’s eyes through road
sign, skyscraper, flag, and camel to the bridge…
The traditional architecture drags on the dunes’ shape and
the falcon, which look at the Emirati couple entering the
Grand Mosque.
-Nirina Ralanto
The Abu Dhabi Flag pole. Fluttering over the Abu Dhabi corniche, this
landmark, which at one point of time used to hold the record for being the
highest free standing flagpole in the world, is a symbol of the free spirited
nature of the people of this amazing country. I have spent hours on the
corniche, mesmerized by the fluttering colours on this flag and always come
back with a feeling of grandeur and spiritual calmness. This painting is a
tribute to that flag, this great nation and its enlightened rulers.
-Soumyajit Choudhary
To me the issue of female empowerment
is very important. Thus the theme of my
painting shows the increasing role of the
Emirati woman in the socio, economic and
political decisions of the UAE.
-Vivek Mukherjee

10. rami:
Thank you UAE for the warm
memories of my childhood
raed:
dalal : anna :
Congratulations UAE...
peace be upon you UAE Ashat al imarat may you have a long life
al mutahida !! and happiness for all your
sylvie : people
je - t - aime abou dhabi sana :
Harmony, peace and prosperity
scarlet :
love you abu dhabi anna : dan :
Happy Birthday UAE!!!!
mariam : Congratulations on
Fedaitik, ya imarat! darwin : your 40th, UAE!
congratulations... arwa d :
guest_7493 : Peace and love
Happy birthday UAE stay strong and
stay ahead mark b :
marwan : Happy 40th UAE!
Love this place, man. sadia : gaisha27 :
I love the summer
Happy national day. I love UAE !!!
, sea & Dubai!!!!
rash :
rania :
Congratulations
inas :
Peace and love, UAE. No other Happiness, glory
always :) place I want to
be in :) and peace to all
robert :
Happy birthday UAE taha : the people living
Mabrook, Ya Emirati
in the UAE

11. UAE 40 Years… 40 Lines…
by Bahareh Amidi
1. The land of not opportunities alone but of dreams coming 17. The heritage that was lost in the desert wind is being
true brought back each day through nabati story telling and
2. The place where I came to with no particular hope and I poem reciting
learned I had wings 18. What might look like workers camps to some may indeed
3. The desert in the middle of the oasis where oil is turned to be viewed as havens to others, the others that are here to
real tangible things support a family and a clan through their daily sweat
4. The crude realities of oil still present but the longing for 19. This land has taught me to look inside for my answers and
change even more present go to the well of light for my responses
5. Bridging the gap between east and west in real form. A 20. I hope to see it 20 years from now and I wonder what 40
lady in a bikini and a lady in an abaya despite all that they years from now will bring to life
carry with in can sit side by side and be themselves 21. Every child was born to a father and a mother, Sheik Zayed
6. It is not only about the Ferrari World it is about where the has been both to this land
road and path can take you 22. He has made an other wise anonymous nation known to all
7. It is not only a place to pray. The Grand Mosque can re- who know where the sun rises
store faith in the abilities of mankind 23. A person is said to be well respected when the elderly and
8. She is a lady at sunset and a gentleman at sunup the young respect them alike. Sheik Zayed was able to
9. It is not only the smell of oud it is the essence of the aroma touch noses bending down to a child and looking up to an
10. The carriers of the Gulf only a reminder of the dreams car- elder
ried to shore 24. Respect is not given but earned, to be called father of a
11. There are no beggars on the street, not only because of law, nation by nationals is one thing but to be internationally
but because we are all here to work respected is another
12. There is no stealing not only because of the consequences 25. There are waves in the Gulf that bring news from the East
but because of the trust we have in ourselves and to the West and at times the oud of the East across the
13. The lights are lit after Ramadan and the lights are lit for Water, this aroma has heritage behind it
Christmas honoring all religions and all faiths and beliefs 26. Heritage of peoples whose life started on this land 7500
14. It is not only the name of the schools and universities that years ago but is now celebrated as the young nation of 40
give education its clout on this land, it is the education years. Only roots can give way to such branches to grow
that gives its students opportunities in this land that give 27. Branches can only seek light if allowed flight. The art of
young minds clout in the world falconry is a national sport which gives inhabitants the
15. It is not the amount of sand in the desert that makes the wings they need to fly
caravan move from place to place, it is the caravan that 28. The camels in the desert that die of eating empty bottles
makes the desert come to life with each step have a voice; the voice that says what will our children
16. The salt in the sea is not salty because it is only there to be think when there are no more camels to greet the dino-
desalinated for use to make the desert green saurs in the heavens
29. There are other nations whose names start with United.
But the UAE is truly a nation that unites people
30. UAE is not a melting pot but more so a place for individuals
Our National Day to keep their ethnicity and wear their identity with pride
may it be a purple robe or a white one
by Beena Sunny 31. The smallness of the nation only adds to the flavor of its
wondrous growth
Emirati National Day, a day 32. The reality and importance of learning from those who
have already traversed a land or a sea
For being happy and gay
33. The land of opportunity for those who are educated and
Filled with celebrations galore wealthy but also the land of opportunity for those twilling
Reminders of history and folklore the land to educate their children at home
-years back our UAE was born 34. The call to prayer five times a day starts at the Grand
Mosque and echoes in every crack of every corner mosque
Seven emirates were then divided and torn and then resonates a light in those ready to hear the call
But on that day, a great leader, able and true 35. The call is the breath of the child out of womb under a tent
United them under a flag of four colour and it is also the last breath of the camel dying of thirst
while sitting at the oasis
Heralding in progress fast and meteoric hue 36. Perhaps oasis is a great word for this land.
Creating a nation unique and historic 37. Indeed a land that was always dry but is now green with
The hands that moulded UAE are stilled vegetation. Still around this land all you see is sand until
your eye travels
Their presence missed, the void never filled
38. At the oasis one can drink or one can cry
Yet comes, second December every year 39. It is there the river of truth is in every speck of sand and in
A day to remember without peer every drop of salt in the sea
From their near and dear ones. 40. For now time of sitting by the river called the UAE is over,
it is time to step into the river and go with the flow.
Beena Sunny was an expatriate of Abu Dhabi for 13 years Bahareh Amidi is an American-Iranian poet based in
and remembers her years here with nostalgia. “This poem Abu Dhabi. She recites poetry at artistic and creative events.
is an expression of thanks and dedication to the rulers of See her poems at www.bahareh.com
UAE,” she says.

12. BU TINAH ISLAND
THE STORY OF A NATIONAL TREASURE
By Noura Abdullah Al Noaimi
As children, we have all dreamt about the euphoria of visiting beautiful remote islands… but
little did the people of the UAE know that we had one floating on own waters!
Amongst the Gulf’s warm and saline waters is a small archipelago named Bu Tinah which is
located 130km west of Abu Dhabi. Bu Tinah is home to numerous endangered species that inhabit
this nirvana island. Within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve is the territory that covers an
estimate of 4,000 square meters, all closed to visitors, fishing and collection of turtle eggs, as the
area is under enforced patrol watch to stay protected as a private natural reserve.
In 2001, UNESCO recognized the island as being one of both the largest and richest is fitting that, as we approach the 40th anniversary of our beloved nation, that Bu
Biosphere reserves found in the region. The island is actually a cluster of islands and Tinah has served to unite the residents of the UAE and beyond in appreciation of our
shoals, all meeting at a very low sea level, reaching no higher than two or three nation’s natural heritage and its importance on the global stage.”
meters above sea level.
Bu Tinah’s main territorial area has a sheltered lagoon opening its area leading to
Due to the island’s affiliation with UNESCO, Bu Tinah immediately raised its level on the south. It has a low energy environment allowing flowing mature mangrove to
the social network platform, and raising a flag that it is susceptible to harm if it is flourish. It also contains an estimate of 16 species of healthy coral reef habitats.
not protected.
Bu Tinah Island is home to the most threatened species of sea turtles in the world
In March 2010, Bu Tinah Island was surprisingly announced as one of 28 global known as “The Hawksbill Turtle”that plays an important role in coral reef maintenance.
finalists in the contest “New 7 Wonders of Nature” when it was shortlisted by a Its shell is considered one of its most beautiful elements and is a coveted item in the
substantial 447 natural sites around the world. On 11 November 2011, Bu Tinah was fashion industry. Another species found at Bu Tinah is the Osprey, also known as the
voted by 13 million people all around the world and it managed to reach the top 14 “sea hawk” and 75 percent of its breeding population is found in Abu Dhabi.
finalists in the global competition! In every territory lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, protected and
appreciated. For the UAE, Bu Tinah represents a magnificent national treasure that
Commenting on the 20-month long campaign, Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al adds value to the UAE; raising its profile in the world of nature and affirming its
Mubarak, Secretary General of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) said: “It commitment to environmental conservation.

13. By Justin Thomas
Photo by Sheikha Al Tunaiji
HARD WALLS
Beyond the smoke, Hard Walls
offers nominally Lebanese/Syrian
cuisine, with an extensive
menu spanning the globe…
WHERE CHICKEN KIEV MEETS A BAHRAINI APPLE pretty much like the Lebanese
diaspora itself. All the usual
Levantine suspects are there;
The Sheesha smoke is thick. Like mist rising over a primordial swamp, its movement hummus, tabouleh, fatoush,
is virtually imperceptible. This serene smoke-scape is a fragile thing; any illusion of kebabs. The menu also features
solidity and permanence is shattered by energetic table staff delivering food, drinks the ubiquitous fodder of
and charcoal. Smoke swirls and dances in their wake, a visible reminder of the globalisation; burgers, and pizzas.
invisible world surrounding us. Unlike the mist from a swamp however, this smoke However, there are also many
is aromatic; an airborne fruit salad with apple, grape, mint and lemon vying for unexpected international
olfactory preeminence. This fragrant smoker’s utopia at the heart of Marina Mall goes surprises. For example, my
by the curious name of “Hard Walls”. favourite dish at Hard Walls
has to be chicken Kiev. This
Many of Abu Dhabi’s restaurants and cafes provide non-smoking sections, however Kiev is absolutely magnificent
in the absence of a significant physical barrier such “smoke-free” spaces are about as – from presentation to flavour to
health promoting as a non-urinating section in a public swimming pool. Hard Walls aroma; a truly outstanding culinary
however, makes a real effort, and the non-smoking section is located outside of the experience. In fact this dish seems kind of out of place at Hard Walls, which has
main restaurant. Yes - here it’s the non-smokers who are marginalised, and pushed a relaxed beach-bar style decor and ambience. This chicken Kiev would be right
to the fringes of the establishment. This less than perfect arrangement is however, at home in any of the world’s gastronomically sophisticated five star restaurants.
far superior to simply separating smoking and non-smoking sections with written- However, in such establishments you probably couldn’t get a Bahraini apple
signs; as if free-floating smoke can read. I once saw a no smoking sign almost totally flavoured sheesha for dessert.
obscured by a thick cloud of illiterate cigar smoke that had defiantly drifted into the
non-smoking section.
The debate on passive smoking has rumbled on for a long time but the direction of
travel is pretty obvious. It seems as though a global public-smoking ban is gradually
creeping into place. However, one issue that needs to be urgently addressed pertains
to children accompanying their parents to super smokey environments. Who would By Priya Prince
take their year-old child to a cigar bar? But children in sheesha cafes and restaurants
seem to be fairly acceptable, common even. Perhaps it’s the pleasant smell of sheesha
INGREDIENTS
smoke that lulls some of us into a false sense of complacency? (Nothing that smells so 2 Tbsps oil 6 curry leaves
good could be harmful, could it?) But the dangers of environmental tobacco smoke 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 cup cooked rice
for children are clear and well publicised. 1 green chili chopped ¼ cup yoghurt
I small onion chopped Salt to taste
The UK’s National Health Service suggest children regularly exposed to environmental ½ inch ginger chopped
tobacco smoke (sweet smelling or otherwise) are more prone to asthma, ear, nose
DIRECTIONS
and chest infections, and do less well cognitively, and are at greater risk of developing
• Heat the oil, add the mustard seeds, green chili, onion, ginger and
cancer and other serious illnesses as adults.
curry leaves.
• Cook till onions are clear
During my visit to Hard Walls several of the passive smokers were indeed children. • Add the yoghurt
As these youngsters munched ketchup-drenched chicken nuggets, mum, dad, aunts, • Switch off the flame
uncles and older siblings all puffed pipes and punctuated their conversation with • Add the rice
perfumed clouds of smoke. One scene now indelibly etched in my mind was of a • Stir and enjoy!
mother cradling a relative neonate in one arm while she dexterously maneuvered
the sheesha pipe with her other. Another scene was of a container of red-hot charcoal
being swung precariously close to the push chair of a sleeping tot! This brought to RATING SCALE:
my mind Dickensian scenes of chimney sweeps, and gin-drinking pre-teen alcoholics.
Surely these children passively imbibing the atmosphere of sheesha-serving LEVEL 1: SUPER EASY
establishments will become the images we look back on with a sense of “I can’t LEVEL 2: RELATIVELY EASY
believe we lived like that!”. LEVEL 3: MEDIUM SKILLS REQUIRED
LEVEL 4: COOKING SKILLS A MUST
LEVEL 5: ARE YOU SURE YOU WANNA DO THIS?

16. sun mon tue
December MY DECEMBER ECO PLEDGE MY DECEMBER TO DO LIST
4 5 6
Chan Blaza
Boots Ladrillo
Cheryl Wayco
Tourism
Dubai Rugby 7’s Wor ld Green 5-7 World Family Summit
C
@ The Sevens 1-3 @ ADNE @ Yas Hotel 5-7
11 12 13
Laveezah Khan Hansel Punnam
Erwin Lugtu
Eye on Earth Summit
World Health Care Congress Omega Dubai Ladie
@ ADNEC 12-15 s Masters
ME @ ADNEC 11- 13 @ Emirates Gold Clu
b 11-17
18 19 20
Kling Blaza
Festival of Falconry in
Al Ain 11-17
25 26 27
Zainab Khan Alex Eusebio
Zeeshan Razzaqi
L
PUL T
Congratulations to Day
Albert and Stephanie on Boxing t
OU GE Merry Christmas!!! your wedding today! y
It was y! Know wha
a
esterd that is?
PA

17. wed thu fri sat
1 2 3
Arjun Suria
to the UAE on
Congratulations
Dubai World Gaming Exp
o@ th year of union! Festival
its 40 Abu Dhabi Corniche
DICEC 29/11- 1/12 30/11- 3/12
Alena Ankit Lodha
7 8 9 10
8th
Film Dub
Fes ai Int
tiva ern
l 7 atio
Winter Charity Fair -14 na
l
Gail D’Souza
@ Abu Dhabi Mall
AR Rahman @ Dubai
International Stadium ty
n l Ci
tomorrow In aid of Medecins row estiva
SM is B i F
@ AD E 2011 Sans Frontiers Chr Duba
NEC @
5-8
Chris Xaviour Davina Lewis Albert Bravo
14 15 16 17
Indian Property Sh
Jun Suarez
ow
Airport Expo, Duba @
i 15-17
Jing and Alex
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!
International Autumn Trade Shankar Ehsaan Loy
Fair @ DICEC 13-15 @ ADNEC tomorrow
Mariam Abassi Junlie Wayco
21 22 23 24
28 29 30 31
Veronica
Nana Christie
Mehreen Malik
Richard Brown
Al Dhafr
a Ca
@ Madin mel Festival
at Za
17-28 yed Mubadala World Tennis Abu Dhabi
Championship 29-31
20
an Race-
Volvo Oce Dec- 14 Jan
11 30
New Years Eve!!!

18. My favourite outfit has to be the off shoulder golden top I got
from Bershka it was the last one in stock! It’s all glittery down
the front and on the back it’s a different shade of gold.
I love shopping at Bershka and Forever 21. I love
going to malls to do my shopping especially Marina
Mall or Abu Dhabi Mall.
FASHION STATEMENT: ople
when pe
I hate it fur! I’m
MY STYLE IS PRETTY ECLECTIC,
l
ALL THE WAY FROM LACE TO GLITTER! wear rea nimal
against a all types
n
cruelty i s!
and form
hi
dy Mer
Name: Cin
adian
Age: 21 ese Can
y: Leban tudent
Nationalit duate s
: Gra
Profession
I think Abu Dhabi does have
style;
it’s especially noticeable am
ongst
the young people.

20. WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE
IN 10 YEARS? RUNNING MY OWN CREATIVE ARTS AND TO BE STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR
MEDIA COMPANY WITH? LEAST LIKE?
AN OLD MAN FROM RUSSIA. WOULD
WHAT IS YOUR HARMONY AND LEAST LIKE TO BE STUCK WITH
Name: Lama IDEA OF PEACE? BALANCE IN MIND
AND HEART
SOMEONE THAT HAS CLAUSTROPHOBIA
Age: 22 WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT LAST SONG
Profession: Student WHAT RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS HAVE SYNDROME (LSS)? THE HIGH ROAD BY
Nationality: Syrian
Motto: Three things in life once gone never
YOU PERFORMED SO FAR IN 2010? BROKEN BELLS
come back: time, words and opportunity RAISED A STRAY CAT
Your most valued possession: My drawing book IF YOU WERE TRAPPED IN A TV SHOW
WHAT ARE 3 THINGS THAT CONFIDENCE, FOR A MONTH, WHICH WOULD YOU
TODAY HAS TAUGHT YOU
THAT YOU CAN IMPROVE ON
FAITH AND CHOOSE? LIPSTICK JUNGLE
TOMORROW? STRENGTH WHAT WAS THE MOST RECENT MOVIE THAT
MADE YOU CRY? BEAUTIFUL MIND
WHO IN YOUR LIFE DESERVES A BIG OLD THANK YOU?
THE ONES THAT BELIEVED IN ME
WHAT IS THE CRAZIEST SHAVED MY HAIR
THING YOU HAVE EVER FROM THE SIDES AND
DONE? BLEACHED IT RED.
IF YOU WANTED SLEEK BLACK
TO LOOK DRESS WITH AN
ABSOLUTELY OPEN BACK, TWO
GREAT, HOW SMALL CREAMY
WOULD YOU PEARL EARRINGS
DRESS? AND AN ANKLET.
WHAT ITEM DO YOU KEEP
BUYING EVEN THOUGH YOU
HAVE PLENTY?
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU BOOKS AND CANDLES
HANGING OUT MOST? ALL AROUND ABU DHABI
ONE THING YOU CANNOT LIVE
YOUR WISH LIST OF COUNTRIES
WITHOUT: KNOWLEDGE TO VISIT. COUNTRIES TO VISIT:
LONDON, FRANCE, TANZANIA,
THE PERSON WHO INSPIRES ITALY, SRI LANKA AND
YOU THE MOST: DOERS PHILIPPINES.
1 2
FIVE THINGS 3WATER, FOOD, IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN
YOU NEED FOR MAP, FINANCE 4 THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE
SURVIVAL: AND ADAPTATION 5
WOULD YOU BE? NY
WHAT CAR
IF YOU WERE ON DEATH ROW,
WOULD WHAT WOULD YOUR LAST MEAL
YOU LIKE TO BE? MY MOTHER’S KOUSA
OWN?
NISSAN 350Z WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE
DESSERT? COOKIES AND OREOS

21. GAME HEDZ Blakniss | Original game head from Atari to XBox!
Well it is 40 years of an incredible nation and yes, Sounds pretty sweet right? If you want to download it just bounce to the Game
Hedz blog and click the link. It’s for the PC platform, but if you have a Mac you can
game heads can celebrate too! Here are at least a use the Boot Camp software (free with OS Leopard and upwards) to play it. Look
couple reasons: Point Blank and Ubisoft. out for the review in the next issue and hit us up on the blog to tell us what you
think. We’ll include your reviews in ours.
POINT BLANK
UBISOFT
What is it ye ask? Well according to developers, Tahadi Games, “Point Blank,
extremely popular in the USA, is played by over 20 million gamers worldwide. Now if you like the Assassins Creed series or Prince of Persia then you’ll love this
It is the No.1 shooting game in Russia, Thailand and Indonesia, and is massively news: Ubisoft, developers for the aforementioned games, is setting up shop in the
successful in the competitive markets of Brazil and Philippines.” UAE! Wuhoooooooo!
Not bad. Tahadi Games has offices in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and right here in It will actually be a game development academy, based in the creative incubator/
Abu Dhabi! Yea, the UAE is becoming a place for game developers, not just game generator TwoFour54. So if you want to go from just playing games to designing
heads. them, March 2012 is your date!
So more about Point Blank. Tahadi Games gives us the low down: These are good signs for the UAE and Arab gaming in general: a good reminder that
gaming is serious business! So anytime folks give you flak for gaming too much,
Point Blank is basically a tactical First Person Shooter (FPS) that pits a team of eight just tell them you’re practicing ;)
playable characters against each other, with access to more than 200 weapons and
items, eight game modes, and more than 40 stages in different sceneries. It has Seasons greetings and happy 40th birthday UAE!
destructible and interactive environments as well as level progression with role-
playing game (RPG) elements. See you game heads in 2012, insha’allah!
UAE DIVERSITY: Ahmed Samir
So it was there that I met a lot of interesting people, a fair number were volunteering
at the festival. I also met a nice man (a “Caucasian”) and upon discussing the film
we had just watched he asked me where I’m from, and I asked him where he was
from…The man’s answer to my question was: Georgia.
I answered, perhaps expectedly: “So, America?” He gave
me a funny look, like he had got that response many times
before and sort of expected it, and he said: “No, Georgia
the country. It’s in Europe.” Wow, how rare is that?! Did
you know that Georgia - the country -existed? I certainly
didn’t! And it’s so amazing that you meet someone from
such a small country, worlds away, right here in the UAE.
MEETING A GEORGIAN, FROM UH, GEORGIA So not only did I have a fun day of films and discussion, I also learnt of a new
The UAE is a country with remarkable diversity. Allow me to illustrate my point by country, its people, culture, heritage, and, frankly, existence! Now, think about the
drawing on a past experience: during the last edition of ADFF, The Abu Dhabi Film people you met today, on the street or on the bus, at work or school…think about
Festival (which, I may add, was great fun) it’s sometimes customary to socialize where they are (or might be) from. Isn’t that amazing diversity?!
with the avid film watchers after the films end, and discuss things like plot,
story, character development and all that goodness that only really exists in non- Being the inquisitive person I am, I just love that! And this is only possible in a place
commercial, made-for-the-art-of-it films. like the UAE, a place one may rightly call a melting pot of cultures.

22. DOC IN THE HOUSE Dr.DMS | A Doc from the Bronx
Middle East. You also have some of the highest accident statistics involving
pedestrian versus car. Another “crowning achievement”? Nothing to be
proud of. Consider all those wasted lives (Theyab Awana, anyone?). This is
totally preventable- its up to you.
Cardiovascular deaths. For a nation with seemingly good resources, the
numbers are high, but lower than developing or war shattered nations
HAPPY BIRTHDAY UAE such as Iraq, Afganistan, or Naru for example. Compared to other GCC
countries, you’re in the middle. This is the #1 killer worldwide.
You’re so “grown up”! Strokes and hypertensive heart disease are related. There’s a lot of
60 is the new 40 these days, so if the UAE were a person, is it healthy? hypertension here, and it’s under treated. People take their meds
sometimes, or don’t even bother. Diet modification? Unheard of. Medical
Top 10 causes of death in the UAE follow up? Poor at best. Strokes are related to long standing uncontrolled
1. Ischemic heart disease hypertension. Controlling one variable, controls the others.
2. Road traffic accidents Diabetes is surprisingly lower on the list (2nd highest worldwide
3. Cerebrovascular accidents prevalence). Diabetes affects other problems and worsens them. Blood
4. Hypertensive heart disease sugar control is very poor, and this directly results in complications,
5. Lower respiratory infections including death. Eat well, exercise, weight control, take your meds, etc,
6. Kidney disease will save your life!! A simple solution, but it requires some effort on your
7. Diabetes mellitus behalf.
8. Congenital anomalies
9. Cirrhosis of liver 40 isn’t old, but you’re like a kid with Progeria. Since the UAE is one of
10. Rheumatic heart disease my patients, I am concerned. You’re not heading for the grave, but if bad
habits carry on, and ignored, hoping that someone else will fix it, I fear
Motor vehicle deaths. You’re up there!! Eritrea tops the list for the gold, the worst.
but you get the bronze medal!!! Considering the total population here,
this figure becomes daunting. Driving here is quoted as the worst in the Only you can save yourself......from yourself.
A DEDICATION TO THE NATION Sara Taher
FROM MONTREAL, WITH LOVE
When I first moved to Abu Dhabi five years ago, kicking and screaming, (and hopefully only) marriage were all experienced because Abu Dhabi
I never imagined that I would soon develop a strong bond with the city. gave me a home. My career soared; I experienced a new financial freedom
Relocating from Montréal, my first few months were filled with sadness, I did not have in Canada. I saw Metallica and Guns N Roses perform live, a
as I longingly ached for the cold city in the north. I’m not quite sure when dream I had since I was 13 years old! I enjoyed a falcon perched on my arm,
it happened, but at some point of my stay, my gripping about city life curiously staring into my eyes (pretty sure not out of hunger!)
became superficial and subsided. I found myself missing my new city on
long vacations and the site of Abu Dhabi from a descending plane began Looking back at these extremely fruitful five years, I
to put a smile on my face.
cannot help but admit that the United Arab Emirates
So what happened in five short years that changed my feelings so has given me more than my share of happiness and
drastically? I suppose that as with any relationship, spending time with
someone reveals their true nature. After Abu Dhabi revealed to me her true fulfillment. With her 40th and my 33rd birthdays
nature, as I did to her, we established a symbiotic friendship that is sure to around the corner, it seems that every birthday we
last a lifetime. We have witnessed tribulations and triumphs together and
it seems that our paths of growth and development are intertwined.
spend together is always time well spent. I won’t give
her a card or some flowers on her birthday but I will
Although I was 29 years old when I moved here, I experienced many “firsts” give her my unconditional love and on my birthday,
in the five years I have lived in the nation’s capital. My first camping, my
first mountain climbing, first free diving, first dune driving and even first I’m sure she will do the same! Happy birthday UAE!

23. JUST HANDCRAFTED Preethi Janice D’Sa | Scientist-artiste hybrid
ALL THEMED UP THE CUPCAKE WAY Scan with your cellphone
Today I would like to encourage you to make themed products that fit in we never cease to critique our work and strive to improve our designs and
with your handcraft work. This is the best time to start, what with the processes.
UAE’s 40th National Day celebrations happening and the end of the year
festivities upon us. So, now that I’ve shared with you a great example of themed work, what
theme would you like to use in your work? Once you have decided, use
I have with us a talented food crafter, Shifana Anwar, founder of Melting the web to get inspired (copying not allowed). Work out the audience
Moments. She shares photos of her themed cakes specially made for the you wish to sell to, do a bit of market research to see if they would be
40th UAE National Day celebrations. Shifana always starts with a sketch interested in your themed products.
and then adds details to the cake. So that by the actual baking process she
already knows what the client’s taste is (no pun intended). Drop me a line at info@writedsaign.com if you would like to share what
happened as a result. I may post the best answers at the Cultural Arts
One factor that is important to her (apart from food safety) is never Travelogue website.
compromising on the quality of ingredients used. The reason? “It’s simple:
the quality of the ingredients directly affects the taste.” So that’s me, Jan, signing off for this year. Have a great “melting moment”
whatever you’re creating and wherever you’re celebrating.
Shifana says that she is her own worst critic. I can empathise with her.
Creatives (me included) are die hard perfectionists. Whilst others may Jan D’Sa runs a technical/bid writing consulting business and is the founder
compliment us on our work (yes, we do accept compliments gracefully), of Janys De mixed media jewelry and cufflinks. Visit her site: https://www.
facebook.com/CulturalArtsTravelogue
MUM UNLIMITED Sarah Widdup | Living the dream, needing the sleep
differences between them. My daughter, bless her heart, can often be
heard practicing her Arabic words while talking to friends, and then telling
them what she’s just said and which language it is that she’s speaking.
CITIZENS OF THE WORLD: The cosmopolitan nature of this place has been a real eye opener for us,
and something for which I am truly grateful. I really feel that Abu Dhabi
MAKING A MOVE FROM DOWN-UNDER has been a gateway to the rest of the world for us, and the contacts and
friends that we’ve made here will make it possible to keep travelling and
Moving to the UAE was a huge leap for my family and me. We’d heard having adventures. Well, that is if we ever decide to leave here, and right
all the whispers about how strict the rules would be, and frankly, I was now I don’t want to!
expecting a serious amount of culture shock. And I was shocked, but
not in the way you’d think, and not in a bad way. The move here was The UAE, it seems to me, is a real land of opportunity. You could, at any
something we did to secure the future for our family, mostly in a financial moment, meet someone who will help you jump on to an exciting new
sense. Little did I know that there were so many other ways that my path. The very fact that you’re reading this now is testament to that! I
family would benefit. was lucky to meet someone, who knew someone, who I then spoke to
for something completely unrelated and then shazam! I’m doing what I
For me, seeing my children become little citizens of the world has been love – writing.
the most amazing part of our adventure here. They’ve met people from
all over the globe, and are very accepting of other cultures and the So happy birthday UAE! And thanks for everything!

24. ARTICULATE Neena Rai | An artist with a flair
UAE: ART AND CULTURE TRANSFORMED
Come second December and we all will be celebrating UAE’s 40th National Day. I will soon complete my fifth year in the UAE, and it seems this land is improving
The country will be decked in lights and decorations will be seen across the streets. with time. I have seen drastic changes in every sphere. Every year the National
People will be out on the streets celebrating the joyous occasion. A lot of emphasis Day celebrations seem to get better and better. The art shows have increased in
is paid to the cars and one can see almost all cars decorated in the national colours. popularity and the variety of art on offer is something to reckon with.
The fun part about National Day celebrations is that it is not limited to nationals
only. I have seen people from all nationalities participate in it. Last year in Abu The Abu Dhabi Art and Manarat Al Saadiyat have transformed the cultural
Dhabi I saw a foam fight between a Pathan driver and some Emirati kids. I am still landscape with the help of the Film Festival. The F1 and Ferrari World have added
unsure who seemed to be enjoying it the most. glamour to this sleepy town of five years ago. The various concerts at Yas and the
Corniche have given a lot of options to the general public to be able to pursue and
The most amazing part of this festive time is that art stretches to new limits that partake in cultural activities.
have not observed before. After beautifying the streets and cars in the national
colours, comes the beautifying with teddy bears. Yes, teddy bears. If this is your And, at the eve of my completing five years in this country, I am struck by how
first time, keep an eye out for the giant teddy bears atop the cars. Oh, and the many choices there are. When I first came here I was at a loss on what to do and
teddy bears are made to match the Emirati colours. Some people may find it how to become engaged in cultural activities. Now there are so many choices that
gaudy, but I think it is absolutely funky. often I literally do not know where to go!
MINI MINX Angeli Castillo | Making minutes out of molehills
important of all, lots of self-motivation. Just like this nation that has developed so
quickly in so little time, Sultan finds inspiration in the memory of the late Sheikh
Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, because of what he has done for his country as well as
for the rest of the world. Sultan says: “I am compelled to follow in his footsteps and
try to do my part for the Emirati and global community.”
UNDER HIS BLACK HALO:
While most people find adjusting to this glorious and giving city a challenge
SULTAN SAEED AL DARMAKI at times, it is now a part of me; I remember as a child having so many happy
memories and yes, even though some times were hard I always found some
As an expat who was born and raised in Abu Dhabi, I had the privilege of watching comfort here in my home knowing that the residents of this place will always be
the city grow and learn the customs and traditions of this land while meeting a taken care of one way or another. Sultan supports the same idea because he thinks
handful of local Emiratis who grew along with it but at the same time managed to that in another 40 years time we will still be enjoying the same level of prosperity
maintain their humble roots. One example is Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki, an Emirati and peace we’ve had in the past 40 years, and that the only difference is that it will
born on the 24th August 1982 in Abu Dhabi. He graduated from New York Institute be shared by more people.
of Technology in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources. Apart from
being the owner of Al Darmaki Group of Companies, he is also a freelance writer Sultan’s message to the new generation of this nation is to motivate them towards
who self-published his first book “Under My Black Halo” in late 2010, he contributes a better future. He says it is important to try to do three things simultaneously:
regularly to Gulf Today Panorama magazine through his column “Impromptu,” and to learn from the Emirati culture and the great men and women of this country,
also dabbles in photography. to know why it is important to be proud of yourself, and to explore the world
so that you might open their eyes to different walks of life and develop a better
One of Sultan’s inspiration is life itself, “because life is a dynamic entity there will understanding of humanity.
always be moments felt that would inspire anyone to try to capture it via pen or
camera.” For an Emarati who has been writing for almost three years and recently You will find some of Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki’s work on the website: www.
took up photography almost nine months ago, he believes that anyone can do sultandarmaki.com. Sultan also takes part in literature and community
what he does, and that all it takes is a little patience, a little dedication and most events and is active in social media.

25. YANK IN THE SANDLAND Randy Parker
presence is not oppressive at all. The driving habits of some need a little work
though. The UAE is also taking global leadership in developing alternate energies.
I think I became somewhat spoiled during my time living here.
Speaking of which, this will be my last column for Tempo. I recently resigned from
my regular job and by the time you read this, I will be on my way back to the US
ADIEU FROM CAPTAIN AMERICA to seek some tempting opportunities. I want to thank Editor Sana Bagersh who 2
NOW IN EXILE… 1/2 years ago gave this fledgling blogger a chance for the “Big Leagues”! The rest
of the crew is great too.
What a wild ride it has been for the UAE! Just forty years ago HH Sheikh Zayed
united the seven Emirates to form the United Arab Emirates and the rest is history. But most of all I appreciate those of you who took time out of their busy day to
I cannot think of any other country that has progressed so far and so fast in so little read my column. With every word I wrote I intended to entertain you, and I really
time. This reaffirms HH Sheikh Zayed’s leadership and that he wanted nothing but hope I did. Writing is a labour of love and I would write even if I knew nobody was
the best for his people. reading my work, but it is very satisfying to have my column published so I know it
has a chance to be read. I intend to find another writing gig back in the States and
The UAE is also unique in its demographic makeup as the vast majority of the maybe I will submit a guest column once in awhile to Tempo just to stay in touch.
population is from somewhere else. I know of no other area in the world where
this is the case. And you know what? It works! This is a true multi-cultural country Thank you everyone, I will miss you all....aloha!!!
that has a minimum of friction between the many nationalities living here. Folks
from different places that may have disagreements when living in their respective Oh, Happy Birthday UAE, I will miss you too, I had a great
countries magically work, live and play well together here. time. May your flag wave forever!
Also, I find the UAE to be a clean, safe (traffic sadly excluded) and modern country. (From the ed: we’ll miss you too, Captain America. God bless, Randy,
I always feel comfortable walking anywhere at any time in Abu Dhabi yet police and stay in touch with your Tempo family. Sana)
JUST A THOUGHT Manar Al Hinai | A Khaleeji girl who overthinks a lot and loves to write
P.S. UAE, I LOVE YOU!
Scan with your cellphone
to follow Manar on twitter
Every time I leave the UAE on holiday, I realize how much I love it, and even though • I love how the UAE blends heritage and modernity. You can be shopping in
I would be enjoying my break, I simply cannot wait till I hop on the plane and go the world’s largest mall, and 20 minutes later be driving on sand dunes.
back there; go back home. • I love how safe this country is, and I don’t have to worry of getting robbed,
killed, or kidnapped.
There is something magical about the UAE that makes people from different • I love the UAE because this where I grew up, went to school, where my best
backgrounds feel a sense of belonging and security; Something that words will fail memories took place, and where I will always live.
to describe, and no country on earth would ever compare to. • I love the UAE because it introduced me to the best friends I could ever have
who come from different backgrounds and share the same passion for this
With the 40th National Day Celebrations going on, I cannot help but think about land as its people
the many reasons that make me passionately love this land. • I love the efforts made by the country to preserve islands like Bu Tinah and
its environment
So my dear readers, I would share with you some and I am sure that many of UAE
agree with me: Finally I love it because this where I first learned to love, and you, the
UAE, is one of my first loves, and you will always hold that special place
• I love our amazing leaders who treat their people like their own family in my heart.
members
• I love how hospitable and generous Emirati are, and how they are tolerant Congratulations! You are still young but big in achievements. Keep on
and welcoming for those wishing to reside on their land dazzling us, and the rest of the world. We are holding our breaths.

26. WANTED:
EMIRATI ENTREPRENEURS
By Ian Mason
Strewth! If you were a visitor to Australia, you’d be dining with a dingo, cooking The UAE must highlight its grassroots culture – not just
with a kangaroo and waltzing with a wombat. But in Abu Dhabi, Emirati cultural
the broadscope cultural precinct being built on Saadiyat
experiences don’t seem to extend much further than the magnificent Sheikh
Zayed Grand Mosque. Island – and it is Emirati entrepreneurs who must
drive it. They need to bring their Bedouin knowledge,
Sure, there is the Heritage Village, but culture is about interpretation, and the their life experiences, their family heritage to the 2.3
Heritage Village could do it so much better. And don’t start me on the desert
million hotel guests expected to pile into the country
safaris. Belly dancers, shisha...not really Emirati culture, is it?
by the end of 2012.
If you surveyed 100 people arriving on the next Etihad flight, I reckon 79 of them
(ok, so we guessed) would be visiting for a cultural experience. And help is freely available. The Khalifa Fund aids
visionary Emiratis with financial support while
Culture is a powerful attractant for visitors. People travel because they want to
experience a different lifestyle to their own, broaden their cultural awareness organisations such as Tamakkan offer an amazing
and show off their newly-found knowledge to their friends back home. mentoring and training base.
But experiencing traditional Emirati culture in Abu Dhabi is often harder than I’m a Westerner. I can’t do it. It would look plain stupid and incredibly non-
applying for residency. credible.
The tourism industry in Abu Dhabi – indeed the whole UAE – is crying out for It needs the skilled, experienced hands of an Emirati – an Emirati that is investing
Emirati cultural experiences. It is not as though the possibilities are short either. in their own business to bring local culture to the world.
How’s this for an example. A foodies tour that visits the fruit and vegetable
market, allows visitors to cook a traditional Emirati meal and sample hospitality So next time you visit Australia and see a koala doing karaoke, don’t laugh. You
in a majlis. Imagine that in the skilled hands of an Emirati guide. can be sure he’s doing it for the culture of his country.
Or perhaps an arts tour featuring paintings, handicrafts and calligraphy. A nature
tour visiting the Falcon Hospital and Saluki Centre. A shopping tour to the souks Ian Mason is a Tamakkan trainer and coaches on
to try on an abaya. A sail on a dhow. A basic Arabic language lesson. marketing, hospitality and media. Tamakkan
offers a range of basic business workshops for
This is Emirati culture, the thing that 79% of visitors (according to the Mason entrepreneurs and corporate “intrapreneurs”,
method of research) want to experience in Abu Dhabi. including Selling Skills, Presentation Skills,
Developing Marketing Plans, Customer Service
The UAE needs Emiratis to proudly interpret and preserve their own culture. It and many more.
demands entrepreneurs with the energy, vision and passion to showcase these
cultural experiences. The Director of Strategy and Policy at Abu Dhabi Tourism Contact Camille on (02) 4918624 or email Scan on your cellphone to know
more about Tamakkan seminars
Authority says so. More importantly, visitors say so. info@tamakkan.org for workshop schedules. and workshops

27. MEDIA COLUMN Alma Kadragic
TAMAKKAN SEMINAR: THE BUSINESS OF FILMMAKING
December 18, 6-8pm, Al Mamoura Auditorium
SHEIKH ZAYED WANTED ETHICAL A discussion about the UAE’s Filmmaking Industry, the opportunities it
JOURNALISM EVEN BEFORE THE presents and the resources available. Speakers/panelists include:
• John Kochanczyk, sound recordist and specialist in post-production
UAE WAS FOUNDED sound and lecturer at the New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi.
• Khalid Al Mahmood, Emirati filmmaker who has been in the business
Last month The National ran an opinion column by Taryam al Subaihi for over 10 years and labeled as one of the Top 10 Arab Filmmakers to
titled The Taint of Bribes in the Media Still Corrupts Coverage. The Watch by Screen International Magazine.
author recalled that Sheikh Zayed “issued a government order to • Marcelle Aleid, Deputy Director of Abu Dhabi Film Commission
establish in 1969 the first daily newspaper, Al Ittihad” two years • Mohammed Al Otaiba, Head of ImageNation Abu Dhabi
before the founding of the UAE in 1971.
Moderator: Chris Newbould, Editor of Digital Broadcast Magazine
“Sheikh Zayed saw that the only way forward to develop Emirati
society was through the creation of a news outlet and direct lines of
Attendance is free but registration is required.
communication with the public through the media.” To register, call Priya on 024918624 or email: info@tamakkan.org.
Unfortunately, between that ideal and what actually goes on today, TAMAKKAN GROW SEMINAR SERIES
there’s a huge gap. Many journalists are in fact bribed and expect to Tamakkan Corporate Bootcamp
be bribed to attend big events by companies – or the public relations
and marketing agencies that work for them. The column led to a Enroll today in one day workshops and enhance your performance at work
twitter flurry of comments giving examples of gifts like iPads offered Classes for December 2011 and January 2012:
to journalists.
• Presentations that Win
Serious news organizations don’t allow their journalists to accept • Leadership 2012
costly gifts; serious public relations agencies don’t suggest things • Managing Yourself: Priorities and Decisions
like this to clients and resist clients who demand that journalists be • Simple Selling Skills
bought. An ethical and sensible public relations practitioner knows • Answer the Phone and Increase Your Sales
that paying for news once means paying for news always. • Plan for Excellent Customer Service
• Keep Your Customers Happy
It’s difficult in a developing market like the UAE where most journalists • Introduction to Social Media for Corporations
don’t earn much for everyone to behave ethically, but that should be • Social Media Toolset
the goal. Editors at news companies should promote the rules of • The Social Business
ethical journalism and penalize those who don’t follow them. • Social Media Engagement
• Best Practices in Project Management
Most important, more Emiratis should • Managing Risks in Projects
become journalists. They are best positioned
TAMAKKAN ENTREPRENEUR SKILLBUILDING WORKSHOPS
to report on their own country and to be well Hands on workshops for business success
paid while doing so. Classes for December 2011 and January 2012:
More Emirati journalists would make • Marketing Plans Made Easy
• Using Publicity to Promote Your Business
the profession recognized in the UAE as • Simple Selling Skills
important and honourable. Probably that’s • Analyzing Your Business: Moving to 2012
what Sheikh Zayed would have expected.
For more information, call 02 4918625 or visit www.tamakkan.org