UAE Community Steps-up Ahead of Walk 2013

More Than 3m Steps In Support Of Start Walking.

www.diabetesconference.icldc.ae  www.diabetesuae.ae

Organisations across the UAE have stepped-up support to Imperial College London Diabetes Centre’s (ICLDC) Start Walking. initiative in the lead up to November’s ‘Walk 2013’ at Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island.

More than three million steps have been notched up since the grass roots activity launched in June of this year, with over two million taken during a two week period alone, which included activation during the recent visit of international basketball star Kobe Bryant.  

The UAE’s first Kobe Bryant Health and Fitness Weekend - which was organised by Maven Marketing and Events - came out in support of ICLDC’s campaign with over 40 children playing for more than 120 minutes to notch-up an impressive tally of 1.16 million steps in support of Start Walking.

Also in the UAE capital, Occidental Oil and Gas International LLC (Oxy), joined in the campaign via its signature 'Corporate Wellness Day,' which is organised in to promote well-being by providing resources to educate employees and families and raise awareness of diabetes. The day began with a fitness challenge among Oxy employees, followed by a healthy lifestyles exhibition, a lecture on diabetes, and a walk which saw 100 individuals add more than 103,000 steps to Start Walking.

The campaign’s own Play for Life Football tournament also pulled out the stops with in excess of 270,000 steps collected in a walk organised on the first day around the main Zayed Sports City stadium. Organising executive teams, sponsors and more than 240 players from 12 corporates joined the walk. Over the five night tournament, the players added an impressive 2.2 million steps to the Start Walking. tally.

Al Ain also joined in the activation, with more than 40 colleagues at the Zayed House For Islamic Culture joining in a walk around the Centre’s grounds. This followed a presentation to management on healthy lifestyles for the management and prevention of diabetes by ICLDC’s Dr Farhana Bin Lootah.

Meanwhile, Cerner Middle East in Dubai joined the campaign chalking up 35,000 steps by braving the afternoon sun in walking around the corporate office at the start of their on-going regional Start Walking drive.

Start Walking. was launched by ICLDC’s public health awareness campaign, ‘Diabetes-Knowledge-Action’ under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

·         Since its launch in 2007, the campaign has promoted the importance of active lifestyles.

·         A healthy diet and a brisk walk for 30 minutes every day has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 58 per cent.

·         More than 371 million people worldwide are living with diabetes, citing the latest figures from the International Diabetes Federation suggesting that the condition affects 18.9 per cent of the UAE population, placing the Emirates at number 11 worldwide.

·         Almost 50 per cent of people living with diabetes are not aware of their condition

Start Walking. is set to stage a collection of mini-walks right up to November in the run up to the annual Walk 2013, walkathon at YAS Marina Circuit on November 15, the day after World Diabetes Day.

Individuals, groups and organisations nationwide can take part in Start Walking. by forming walking groups or events - with the campaign's website diabetesuae.ae regularly updated with ideas, downloadable posters and flyers. 

@Swarovski partners with abaya couture designers in ‘Crystal loves abaya’ campaign

Swarovski, the global leader in cut crystal and fashion jewellery, is delighted to announce its collaboration with six young designers from the Gulf Cooperation Council region. They have all used their superb couture skills to reinterpret the graceful abaya using Swarovski crystals in new and exciting contemporary designs.

The abaya’s elegant fluidity lends itself perfectly to embroidery and appliqué using crystals from Swarovski. Now, six talented designers have elevated abaya couture to an art form by each displaying their skills in capsule collections of three or four abayas.

The six designers—also proprietors of their brands—include two from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Riyadh-based Hania Albraikan for Hania, and Jeddah-based Rawan Azhar of Ta Marbota. From Qatar comes Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi for Medici, and from Oman, Lubna Al Zakwani for Endemage. The two United Arab Emirates-based designers are Abeer Al Suwaidi for her eponymous brand, and Sara Al Madani for Rouge Couture. Each was commissioned to apply their creative vision to creating abaya designs that bring to life their individual brand identity and design language.

Flemming Nielsen, Vice President Operations Asia South Swarovski Professional, underlined that this latest Swarovski initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting designers within the region, as well as providing a platform for the contemporary and modern interpretation of crystals.

“Swarovski is proud to partner with these contemporary abaya designers and continue one of the company’s most treasured traditions. The philosophy of working with design talent has permeated every aspect of this family run company since it was founded in 1895,” he said. “The initiative is also closely allied with Swarovski’s long history of creative collaborations with the world’s most prestigious names in the fashion industry, some of which date back to the early 20th century.”

Visitors to Dubai’s The Empty Quarter gallery, which is located at the Dubai International Financial Center, will be able to enjoy these contemporary masterpieces on November 27, 2013, and observe first-hand the breathtaking effect of Swarovski crystal embellishment on sleekly stylish abayas with a powerful modern edge.   

Swarovski delivers a diverse product portfolio of unmatched quality, craftsmanship and creativity. Founded in 1895 in Austria, Swarovski Crystal Business designs, manufactures and markets crystals, natural and created gemstones, finished products such as jewelry, accessories and lighting. The company’s film division, Swarovski Entertainment, produces artistically accomplished feature films with global box-office appeal. The Swarovski Foundation was set up to honor the philanthropic spirit of the company by supporting creativity and culture, promoting wellbeing and conserving natural resources.

Now run by the fifth generation of family members, Swarovski Crystal Business has a global reach, with over 2,350 stores in about 170 countries, 25,135 employees and revenues of 2.38 billion Euros in 2012. Together with its sister companies Swarovski Optik (optical devices) and Tyrolit (abrasive), Swarovski Crystal Business forms the Swarovski Group. In 2012, the Group generated revenues of 3.08 billion Euros and employed 30,600 people.

#7StarSpin @BurjAlArab @RedBullRacing & @Therealdcf1 Infiniti Red Bull Racing Celebrates in Style on Burj Al Arab Helipad

Infiniti Red Bull Racing Celebrates in Style on Burj Al Arab Helipad

Celebration in Dubai comes days after clinching Drivers’ and Constructors’ F1 World Championship for the Fourth Cosecutive Time
To celebrate an emphatic win of the Formula One Drivers' and Constructors’ World Championships at the F1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix, Infiniti Red Bull Racing celebrated in style at one of the most recognised locations on earth.
Perched 210 metres above the sea, on a helipad 24 metres wide, Infiniti Red Bull Racing’s 750bhp F1 car usually reserved for on-track use became the first to ever run atop the Burj Al Arab helipad in a spectacular show of burning rubber and tire smoke and a stunning backdrop of the Arabian Gulf overlooking scenic views of Dubai’s impressive skyline.
Seconds after completing donuts in the car, David Coulthard stepped out of the cockpit and said: “That was a lot of fun. When Red Bull first suggested the idea to me I said 'why not?'. I like getting involved with anything that pushes the boundaries and it's what Red Bull stands for. I think this will produce fantastic, iconic shots in an amazing town and I’m really privileged to be part of it.” 

Her Excellency Laila Mohammed Suhail, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, commented: “From Tiger Woods hitting golf balls from the helipad to Andre Agassi and Roger Federer playing tennis on it, images of the Burj Al Arab have gone around the world, increasing awareness of Dubai and evoking a desire to visit. There could be no better way to both celebrate Red Bull’s recent win of the Formula One World Championship and look forward to the inaugural Dubai Motor Festival. Once again, images of one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks will capture the imaginations of future visitors.”

Piers Schreiber, Spokesperson for Jumeirah Group, said: “Burj Al Arab has hosted many extraordinary events on its helipad, but none as exhilarating as a Formula One car in full spin. Not only is the hotel the most photographed and the most talked about in the world, it will soon class as having the most filmed helipad as well.”

@AbuDhabiFF ADFF Announces Winners of Emirates Film Competition and International Short Film Competition

 

Emirates Film Competition

The Emirates Film Competition (EFC) observes its 12th anniversary this year, marking more than a decade as a key platform for regional filmmakers. The EFC is dedicated to showcasing short films from established directors and new discoveries from the UAE and other GCC countries.

This year, the EFC selection comprised 49 short films from all over the Gulf region, including 36 from the UAE.

The Emirates Film Competition is presented by Dolphin Energy.

The Jury
PRESIDENT: Ahmed Rachedi, Algeria
Oday Rasheed, Iraq
Taleb Al-Refai, Kuwait
Hafiz Abdulla, Qatar
Fadel Al Muhairi, UAE

The jury awarded the following Awards in the Emirates Film Competition 2013:
 
Short Narrative Competition:
First Prize (AED 30,000): BIDOON
directed by Mohammed Al Ibrahim

Second Prize (AED 25,000): WITH TIME
directed by Malak Quota

Special Jury Award (AED 25,000): DADDY ABC
directed by Hamad Al Awar

Student Short Narrative Competition:
First Prize (AED 20,000): I DON’T UNDERSTAND
directed by Noura Al Zarouni

Second Prize (AED 15,000): MIRROR
directed by Ameera Madhi

Third Prize (AED 10,000): GRIEF
directed by Omnia Al Afifi

Short Documentary Competition:
First Prize (AED 30,000): FEEDING FIVE-HUNDRED
directed by Rafed Al Harthi & Ray Haddad

Second Prize (AED 25,000): TEMSA7
directed by Latifa Al Darwish & Rouda Al Meghaiseeb

Special Jury Award (AED 25,000): BADER
directed by Latifa Al Darwish, Sara Al Saadi & Maaria Assami


Student Short Documentary Competition:
First Prize (AED 20,000): OOPS!
directed by Reem Al Meqbali

Second Prize (AED 15,000): SILENT ART
directed by Hana Mire

Third Prize (AED 10’000): AGAINST THE WIND
directed by Aisha Abdulla

Best Emirati Film (AED 25’000)
DADDY ABC
directed by Hamad Al Awar

Best Cinematography Award (AED 10’000)
MIRROR
Cinematographer Hamda Al Qubaisi

Best Script Award (AED 10’000)
BIDOON
Writer Mohammed Al Ibrahim
 

Short Film Competition

The Jury
PRESIDENT: Mohamad Malas, Syria
Hala Khalil, Egypt
Jenle Hallund, Denmark
Khalid Al Mahmood, UAE
Matthieu Darras, France

Best Narrative (USD 25’000)
THE WOUND (Obida)
directed by Anna Budanova (Russia)

Best Film from the Arab World (USD 20,000)
THOUGH I KNOW THE RIVER IS DRY
directed by Omar Robert Hamilton (Palestine, Egypt, Qatar)

Best Documentary (USD 20,000)
LE JOUR A VAINCU LA NUIT
directed by Jean-Gabriel Periot (France)

Best Animated Short Film (USD 20,000)
REALITY 2.0
directed by Victor Orozco Ramirez (Germany, Mexico)

Best Producer (USD 10,000)
Saïd Hamish
for the film ZAKARIA
directed by Leyla Bouzid (France, Tunisia)

Best Producer from the Arab World (USD 10,000)
Djaber Debzi
for the film THE DAYS BEFORE
directed by Karim Moussaoui (Algeria)

FELIPE MASSA @f1_massa TO BE ENTERTAINED BY @montecarlobcad MONTE-CARLO BEACH CLUB, SAADIYAT ABOARD AMBER LOUNGE LUXURY SUPER-YACHT

Ferrari Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa will be hosted courtesy of Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat aboard the Amber Lounge yacht this F1 weekend in Abu Dhabi.

The famed Amber Lounge yacht, which saw success at the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this year has teamed up with the award-winning beach club on Saadiyat Island to cater the event for the 2013 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat’s chefs, will be aboard the luxury, 40 meter triple deck yacht, which is even home to a rooftop Jacuzzi.
Chef Gavin Gleeson said: “We’ve been preparing for weeks to create the ultimate menu for guests aboard the yacht – and with racing legend Felipe Massa on-board we have been pulling out all the stops to create mouth-watering and memorable dishes.”
Guests will be provided with a private interview and Q&A session with the F1 racing star, to chat about the action packed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix .
Bill Loveday, general manager at Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat, added: “Monaco has long been affiliated with the prestigious F1 racing, so it is only right that Amber Lounge chose us to cater their luxury yacht for the event!”
Meanwhile, Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat will be kicking off the F1 weekend with ‘Yelloween’, a chic Halloween themed night hosted by event guru’s SoBe, on October 31. This will followed by a ‘Pukka Up’ party on the afternoon of November 2 with legendary Ibiza DJs Celeste Siam and Chris Wright.
For further information regarding the yacht, please contact hospitality@amber-lounge.com or call (+971) 566 949 089.

For further information regarding the events at Monte-Carlo beach Club, Saadiyat, contact info@montecarlobeachclub.ae.

@Thorayagroup 15th edition of Women’s Exhibition set to be the biggest in its history after attracting record numbers of regional and global exhibitors

The event is the leading platform for women’s entrepreneurship, empowerment and enlightenment across various industries

As the UAE celebrates 42 years of unity, women will also showcase their unity at the leading women’s exhibition from 11 - 14 December at Dubai World Trade Center. This will be the Women’s Exhibition’s 15th edition, featuring the latest products and services for women, and encompassing diverse industries like fashion designs, beauty, health and the culinary art.

Ms. Thoraya Al Awadhi, owner and founder
of Thoraya Al Awadhi Group of Companies

The event is organized by Ms. Thoraya Al Awadhi, owner and founder of Thoraya Al Awadhi Group of Companies, and supported by the UAE Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the UAE Business Women Council. The Exhibition is a platform for women entrepreneurs, start-ups and companies new to the region whose products and services are focused on women.

Through this event, UAE women have been enhancing their roles as business leaders and increasing their participation in society. It is also a golden opportunity for owners of start-ups and SME’s to expand their customer base and engage in knowledge exchange. A press conference was held to announce the exhibition at the UAE Business Women Council offices in Dubai. The conference was attended by His Excellency Humaid Mohammad Bin Salem, General Secretary of the UAE Federation of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UAE FCCI); Ms. Thoraya Al Awadhi, owner and founder of Thoraya Al Awadhi Group of Companies; Her Excellency Eng. Fatima Obaid Al Jaber, Chairperson of the UAE Business Women Council, and Chairperson of the Executive Board of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, as well as Board members of the UAE Business Women Council.

Ms. Thoraya Al Awadhi, owner and founder of Thoraya Al Awadhi Group of Companies and the 15^th Women’s Exhibition organizer, said: “In the four days of the 15th Women’s Exhibition, you can gain a wealth of experience by interfacing with women from diverse backgrounds. It’s a celebration of women’s entrepreneurship, empowerment and creativity. As the leading event for women, by women, we bring together visionary women with big ideas and even bigger ambitions. We are going the extra mile to make this the most successful edition. We have enhanced the quantity, quality and diversity of our exhibition stands to boost start-ups and SME’s, by attracting international exhibitors. We ensure that our thought-provoking ideas will be spread worldwide, thereby positioning the UAE as the world’s rising star in women’s empowerment.”

She added that this year’s exhibition will bring more than 100 companies from the UAE, the Arab world, Europe and beyond, and it will bring a collection of lifestyle companies in the areas of spas, wellness, fashion, travel, nutrition and cuisine, home décor, bridal services.

His Excellency Humaid Mohammad Bin Salem, General Secretary of the UAE Federation of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UAE FCCI) commented: “Since our organization’s inception in 2001, we have strongly supported women’s entrepreneurship due to its central role in the socio-economic development of the UAE. As part of this goal, our federation incorporated the UAE Business Women Council to operate under our umbrella as per resolution 10 in 2001. We then established Business Women councils in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Um Al Quwain, and collectively our concerted efforts have yielded numerous accomplishments. This exhibition is perfectly timed, as it coincides with the UAE’s 42nd National Day celebrations as well as the voting for the Expo 2020 bids.”

Elaborating on the achievements so far, he said: “Since 2001 we have given constant support to women entrepreneurs, and now this sector constitutes 10% of the UAE's private sector; 21,000 women have been enrolled, and now women make up 15% of board directors of the companies under our Chambers of Commerce. Vision 2021 aims to raise this even further to 30%. I am proud to say the UAE is the leader in the Middle East in women’s empowerment. The exhibition industry in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah is worth almost AED10 billion, and we are also supporting many projects related to Expo 2020, including the “Made in Asia” exhibition in April, among other regional and international projects.”

Her Excellency Eng. Fatima Obaid Al Jaber, Chairperson of the UAE Business Women Council, and Chairperson of the Executive Board of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council pointed out that: “The exhibition industry - particularly women’s events - is a great opportunity to promote destinations and attract visitors. Not only entrepreneurs, who represent 20% of UAE tourists, but also exhibition tourists. Many people worldwide want to visit exhibitions in the UAE due to our exceptional facilities. Exhibition tourists differ from other tourists due to the high quality services and facilities that they demand, regardless of the cost and average period of residence. Most UAE exhibition tourists are high caliber tourists who contribute positively to tourism income.”

The 15th Women’s Exhibition will be held in a strategic location at an even bigger venue at Dubai World Trade Center, main Concourse (Hall 6), from 11 - 14 December.

@SusanBoyleHQ DOUBLE GRAMMY® AWARD NOMINEE SUSAN BOYLE TO PERFORM IN ABU DHABI

Scottish Superstar’s First Ever International Concert

Abu Dhabi Cricket Club under the Chairmanship of HE Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community and AUH Live, are proud to announce a partnership that will see the state of the art Zayed Cricket Stadium transformed into Abu Dhabi’s premier concert venue; with Grammy-nominated British singing sensation Susan Boyle as the first headline act. The international chart-topping artist from Scotland will perform under the stars in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment for an all-ages audience on Friday, 13th December.
Susan Boyle won hearts around the globe with her jaw-dropping performance at the 2009 auditions for Britain’s Got Talent. She has carved out a phenomenally successful international career, with four record-breaking studio albums and numerous accolades. This show in Abu Dhabi marks the first time she has ever performed a full concert live outside of her home country. 
With reserved outdoor seating for 11,000 people, fans will be treated to 75 minutes of Susan’s exquisite renditions of dozens of classics from across the decades including her greatly anticipated duet with Elvis Presley.
Susan made worldwide headlines recently when it was announced she is the first British artist EVER to have a posthumous duet with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll featured on their album. Her fifth studio album ‘Home For Christmas’ features the duet with Elvis.
Fans in the United Arab Emirates will be treated to a moving performance of “Oh Come, All Ye Faithful”, as Susan sings with her late idol.
The concert will also feature a notable local support act, to be announced shortly.
Tickets to Susan Boyle in concert at Zayed Cricket Stadium go on sale Wednesday 6th November, starting at AED250 from www.ticketmaster.ae
Susan Boyle

• TWO GRAMMY® NOMINATIONS
• 66 million Wikipedia page views in one week set a new record.
• Susan Boyle's YouTube videos, when combined have been viewed more than 680,375,000 times
• Sold over 20 million albums worldwide
• Boyle is the only Scottish artist ever to have two #1 Albums in Australia.
• 120 Platinum and Gold Albums in 38 Countries around the world
• Performed on TV shows including Oprah, America’s Got Talent, Fox & Friends, The Today Show, X Factor, Strictly Come Dancing, The View.

@MercedesBenzME New Mercedes-Benz Sales & Marketing Director to drive 2020 Growth Strategy in Middle East

Dedicated to driving the momentum of Mercedes-Benz’ successful 2020 sales and marketing growth strategy in the region to date, Dirk Fetzer will take the wheel as Director Sales and Marketing at Daimler Middle East & Levant, succeeding Frank Bernthaler who has moved to pursue the same strategic objective for the Austrian market.

Effective 1 November 2013, Fetzer will hit the road in his new role with the regional launch of two exciting Mercedes-Benz cars and a regional first at the Dubai International Motor Show 2013. No stranger to the regional market, after joining Daimler in 1996 Fetzer’s first assignment led him to the Middle East in 1999, working three years as Assistant Sales Manager within the Passenger Cars department of the Daimler Regional Office in Dubai.

In 2003 Fetzer returned to Stuttgart to take a management position in the Sales & Marketing area of Mercedes-Benz as Product Manager for M-Class and GL SUVs. Thereafter, Fetzer was appointed Chief of Staff to the Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales and Marketing, and was promoted to Senior Manager in 2009 with responsibility for Business Management and Controlling of the Mercedes-Benz Global Own Retail organization and Investment planning for the international Sales Organisation.

Commenting on Fetzer’s appointment, Mike Belk, President & CEO, Daimler Middle East & Levant, said: “Dirk brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the automotive business in Middle East and will be a great asset to the company. With his passion for cars, as well as his broad experience in sales, marketing and retail, we are sure that he will provide valuable guidance and continue to implement the regional 2020 Growth Strategy with passion and drive, building on the excellent foundations laid by Frank Bernthaler.”

Since his arrival in January 2008, Bernthaler has overseen three best ever regional sales years in 2008, 2011 and 2012, the recent launch of a refreshed new SUV model line-up to widen luxury off-roader market share, and the entry into a youthful new customer base with launch of the A 250 Sport in early 2013.

@CUDUAE PROFESSORS AT THE CANADIAN UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI SET UP UAE'S FIRST MATH JOURNAL

Young mathematicians aiming to raise the profile of education in the country.

Two professors from the Canadian University of Dubai have set up the region's first mathematics journal, giving number crunchers a new forum to get their papers published.
Dr Firuz Kamalov, 30, and Dr Ho Hon Leung, 29, have launched The Gulf Journal of Mathematics (www.gjom.org), an online compilation of mathematical papers, theories and analyses from leading mathematicians.
The journal is seen as a key way for the region’s academics to draw attention to their mathematical submissions in the face of perceived skepticism towards their work among international journals.
Dr. Leung, who graduated from Imperial College in London, said many Gulf institutions are much younger than their Western counterparts and as a result, established international journals view submissions from the Arab world with less authority than those from Western countries.
“We set this up as an alternative for people who don't want to send their articles to the West - they can now try a local journal,” he said.   
"We have submissions from the Gulf region, South Asia, Eastern Europe and some from the US and the UK. The majority are from this part of the world. The fact that we are receiving international submissions shows that we are gaining more and more respect across the world.”
Since its launch in August, the two professors have been overwhelmed by the response from the global mathematics community.
"In the first three months we had over one hundred submissions, which for a new journal is incredibly high,” said Dr Kamalov, who graduated from the University of Nebraska. “We accept maybe 30% of submissions - the top journals accept about 15% so we are on the right track.
"There is a strong mathematics community in the region so we got the word out by contacting potential authors and telling them there was a new journal to get their papers published. The first submissions came from them, but word has spread very quickly and people from all over the world are sending us things on their own. I think they see that we are providing something that no one has before."   

For more information visit www.gjom.org

@AbuDhabiFF EMIRATES & SHORT FILM COMPETITION WINNERS ANNOUNCED TODAY

MAJOR INTERNATIONAL FILMS SHOWCASE AT ABU DHABI FILM FESTIVAL
 

 Film Festival attendees will be able to glimpse into the future  of the film industry when the award winners of the Emirates Film Competition and International Short Film Competition will be announced during  a sparkling award ceremony at Emirates Palace at 9pm this evening. Actors and filmmakers from the films in competition will be joined by other festival guests, international critics and members of the juries. Press are invited to film the event. To arrange attendance, please contact:  presscarpet@adff.ae.

Four films that have been creating a buzz around the world enjoy their Middle East Premiere today as part of the Festival’s  Showcase. Jim Jarmush’s film ONLY LOVERS LEFT ALIVE, nominated for the Palme d'Or at Cannes this year, is a romance-drama vampire film starring Tom Hiddleston, Tilda Swinton, and John Hurt. Actor Slimane Dazi will attend the screening. French master Bertrand Tavernier’s QUAI D’ORSAY is a gleeful satire about a dashing but incompetent French Minister, starring Thierry Lhermitte as the useless charmer. From Russia comes THE GEOGRAPHER DRANK HIS GLOBE AWAY directed by Alexander Veledinsky, based on the novel with  the same name by Alexei Ivanov, which recently took the main prize at the Odessa International Film Festival. FATAL ASSISTANCE, by Haitian director Raoul Peck, is a damning indictment at the failure of international aid agencies to restore safety and order in the wake of the Haitian earthquake in 2010. The documentary has been creating waves at Festivals everywhere and competes here in the OUR WORLD COMPETITION, which recognises films that broaden awareness of environmental and related social issues.

Also competing in OUR WORLD and screening today are EMPTYING THE SKIES by US director Douglas Kass, a documentary feature about the illegal killing of songbirds, and HOLY FIELD, HOLY WAR by Polish director Lech Kowalski, which investigates fracking methods in the Polish countryside. Both directors will attend the screenings of their films.

Documentary fans are spoiled for choice, as there are more unmissable films in the DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION. The Middle East Premiere of MADEMOISELLE C directed by Fabien Constant, who will attend the screening, is a real-life Devil Wears Prada, about Vogue Paris editor Carine Roitfeld. Also screening in the competition is the World Premiere of SCHOOL OF BABEL, French director Julie Bertuccelli’s touching film about young immigrant children learning the language of their new home. In THE KILL TEAM, also competing in Documentary, director Dan Krauss looks at a platoon of U.S. Army infantry soldiers known  as “The Kill Team”,following reports of its soldiers killing for sport while stationed in Afghanistan.

IDA by Pawel Pawlikowski, the film that won Best Film at the London Film Festival a few week ago, will have its Middle East Premiere when it screens in the NARRATIVE COMPETITION.  It is the first firm the acclaimed director has made in his native Poland. The film  was praised by the jury as “a courageous film that handles, with subtlety and insight, a painfully controversial historical situation – the German occupation and the Holocaust – which continues to resonate”. SIDDARTH also screens in the Narrative Competition today, with director Richie Mehta presenting. It’s a heart-rending tale of a poor Delhi street merchant’s desperate search for his missing 12 year old son.

The Georgian film BLIND DATES, directed by Levan Koguashvili, considered a major new talent, will have its Middle East premiere as part of the NEW HORIZONS program today. The film is a tragic comedy about the quiet desperation of bachelorhood, told through the eyes of a 40 year old who still lives at home with his parents. The director will attend the screening, along with the producer Olena Yershova.

The Abu Dhabi Film Festival runs from October 24 until November 2. The Ceremony for the winners of the Black Pearl Awards will take place on October 31.

@MyCoffeePlanet COFFEE PLANET INTRODUCES THE MOCCAMASTER

-          Handmade filter coffee machine available in the UAE exclusively from Coffee Planet

Coffee Planet, the UAE’s freshest home grown coffee brand has launched a new range of handmade and environmentally friendly filter coffee machines priced at AED 1,299, please welcome the Moccamaster.

Available at select Coffee Planet locations across the UAE: Dubai Internet city, Knowledge Village, Al Barsha traffic department, ADCB Building and ADCP in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah City Center and Roseleaf Café in Dubai Garden centre the Moccamaster is available in ten bright colours from Dutch Orange, to pink and even to an elegant Royal Blue to fit in any kitchen.

Coffee enthusiasts can also enjoy a new range of freshly roasted Single Origins, created by Coffee Planet, each with its own unique personality, these distinctive flavours are enhanced through the Moccamaster, available to purchase at select Coffee Planet outlets.

Now with the help of the new colour matching app created by coffee planet, coffee lovers can simply take a picture of their  kitchen and slot in a Moccamaster to help them decide what colour is best. http://www.coffeeplanet.com/moccamaster-competition

For more information, please visit www.coffeeplanet.com

@ToroRossoSpy Symbol of UAE pride to be seen by millions around the world on F1 cars

A symbol of UAE pride will be painted onto two Formula 1 racing cars for the 2013 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, it was announced today.

The “Kullunna Khalifa” logo will be on the side of both Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 cars throughout the weekend.
An estimated global television audience of 200 million will see it fly around Yas Marina Circuit along with the 60,000 people who will attend during practice, qualifying and the race itself.
The promotion of Kullunna Khalifa at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been organised by the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC).
They are already involved with Toro Rosso as Cepsa, Nova Chemicals and Falcon Private Bank – IPIC Group companies - are sponsors of the team.
Kullunna Khalifa, which literally means “We are all Khalifa”, is a message designed to unite everyone in the UAE in being proud of the nation.
“Kullunna Khalifa is something very important to us here at IPIC and we thought this was a wonderful opportunity to promote UAE pride,” said His Excellency Khadem Al Qubaisi, Managing Director of IPIC.

“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a fantastic occasion for everyone in the county. It puts Abu Dhabi in the international spotlight and every year people work so hard to make it all happen.”
The Toro Rosso team today spoke of their delight at being involved in the project.
“The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has become Scuderia Toro Rosso`s highlight of the year as we enjoy a close cooperation with Cepsa, Nova Chemicals and Falcon Private Bank, all IPIC Group Companies,” said Franz Tost, STR Team Principal. “We feel very honoured to race with the symbol of UAE pride, Kullunna Khalifa, on our cars. In addition, Yas Marina is one of the world’s most beautiful race tracks, with a very special atmosphere.”


Toro Rosso’s young superstar driver, Daniel Ricciardo, added: “I really enjoy Yas Marina Circuit – it’s definitely in my top three races. The fact that it’s the only twilight race on the calendar ensures there’s always a great atmosphere.”

@ChristiesInc Christie's Dubai sets world records with Zeid's painting at $2,741,000 & watch sales totaling $1,591,750.

Christie's Dubai sets world records with Zeid's painting at $2,741,000 & watch sales totaling $1,591,750.

As Christie’s Dubai Part 1 Art sale and Watch auctions comes to a close, we are pleased to announce that Fahr El-Nissa Zeid’s Break of the Atom and Vegetal Life , has set the highest price for a painting by an artist from the region at $2,741,000 (AED10,064,952) and the watch sales have achieved their highest ever total in a Dubai sale at $1,591,750 (AED5,844,906).
Please find attached (via link below) the details on the Zeid, Art Top 10, Watch results and Watch Top 10.
I hope you will be able to mention this news and feel free to let me know should you need anything else.
Art Auction:
CHRISTIE’S MAKES HIGHEST PRICE FOR A PAINTING BY A MIDDLE EASTERN ARTIST
 $2.7 MILLION WORK BREAKS WORLD AUCTION RECORD FOR FAHR EL-NISSA ZEID & IS SECOND HIGHEST PRICE FOR ANY MIDDLE EASTERN WORK SOLD AT AUCTION
 WORLD AUCTION RECORD FOR A FEMALE MIDDLE EASTERN ARTIST
 Dubai – Christie’s, the undisputed market leader in Middle Eastern modern and contemporary art, established the highest price ever paid for a painting by an artist from the region when Fahr El-Nissa Zeid’s Break of the Atom and Vegetal Life sold for $2,741,000 (AED10,064,952) in their Dubai saleroom this evening. This is the second highest price ever made for a work by a Middle Eastern artist after Parviz Tanavoli’s bronze sculpture Wall (Oh Persepolis) sold in these rooms in 2008 for $2.8 million.
The sale of the piece by Fahr El-Nissa Zeid (Turkish / Jordanian, 1900-1991) also makes her the highest valued female artist from the Middle East far surpassing the previous record for her work of $1 million.
Break of the Atom and Vegetal Life, painted in 1962 is considered the most important work by the artist. Inspired by a synthesis of Islamic calligraphic aesthetic traditions, Fahr El-Nissa Zeid employs an intricate use of colours and lines in a monumental and harmonious composition whereby purples morph into violets, while greens, reds and blues ring with violent blacks.
The Modern and Contemporary Arab, Iranian and Turkish Art sale will continue tomorrow evening, Wednesday 30 October at 7.00pm at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel and the part III online-only sale runs until November 11. A full press release will be issued tomorrow.
Watch auction:
WATCH AUCTION AT CHRISTIE’S DUBAI 96% SOLD
ESTABLISHED HIGHEST TOTAL EVER ACHIEVED IN A DUBAI SALE AT $1,591,750 / AED5,844,906
Dubai - Christie's re-launched Dubai auction of Important Watches was 96% sold by lot and made a total of $1,591,750/AED5,844,906. It is Christie’s highest watch sale result established in the Middle East. The top price of the sale was paid for an impressive 18karat white gold and diamond set wrist watch by Piaget which sold for $106,250.

Frederic Watrelot, regional watch specialist for Christie's, commented: “We couldn’t have hoped for a better response from clients to this our first sale in the category since 2010. The results speak for themselves with almost every watch offered selling, a demonstration of the appetite for watches from clients in the region. This was bourne out in the statistics which showed that 85% of the buying came from clients based here in the Middle East. In a broad, healthy and ever growing market, we were able to offer examples of all the major watch brands mixed with a small selection of vintage watches. A packed saleroom combined with active online participation, busy „phone lines and a great response during the pre-sale exhibition has generated these stellar sell-through. Christie’s recipe of sourcing quality pieces, pricing them accurately, presenting them to the right audience, in the right place and at the right time has led to this success”.

Mayrig Opens on the Boulevard

Famous Armenian restaurant from Beirut, Mayrig opened in Dubai last night with great fanfare. Attended by Dubai’s haute society and pillars of the Armenian community, the opening was a glittering affair. Mayrig owner Aline Kamakian, the granddaughter of Manouchag, the lady who the restaurant is named after, personally welcomed her guests to the homely space located on the Emaar Boulevard Downtown. Over the past 10 years the renown Armenian restaurant has become something of an institution, and now it brings its inimitable food and charm to Dubai.
Mayrig which means Grandmother in Armenian, takes pride of place on the boulevard in a building of its own. The entire restaurant as well as the popular terrace was abuzz with glamourous guests enjoying the delicious Armenian fare.

The Menu:
Mayrig’s menu consists of famous, traditional recipes which have been handed down through many generations. Armenian favourites such as Sou Beureg, Fishnah kebab, lentil salad, Mante, and the world famous  cheese Maamoul dessert are some of the star dishes that feature on the menu. With Mayrig comes a new and exciting addition to the Dubai restaurant scene, the first restaurant to offer authentic Armenian cuisine in the city. A sensory burst of tastes and flavors await diners in the homely space.

The welcoming outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy shisha and while away the hours enjoying great food on the Boulevard, as guests watch the world go by on the lively thoroughfare in the centre of Dubai.
The Pedigree:
Mayrig is the passion of owners Aline Kamakian and Serge Maacaron. Aline, a Lebanese of Armenian origin is the head of IIC sarl (Insurance, Investment Consultants) a successful brokerage company in Beirut. In 2003 she opened Mayrig restaurant in Beirut together with her cousin Serge, realizing her childhood dream. Aline is a passionate cook who owes her love of food and flavors to her mother, and the generations of women in her family.

In November 2011, Aline published her first book “Armenian Cuisine” and in 2013 Whether through writing, cooking or her restaurants restaurants, Aline's passion is to share the rich Armenian culinary culture and offer her work as a tribute to all Armenian mothers, hence the moniker “Mayrig”, which means "little mother" in Armenian. 

Serge Maacaron was born into a food-loving family. Leaving his family business of banking and real estate he founded Mayrig together with his cousin in 2003. His love for flavors, details, and people is what Serge draws upon to constantly bring out the best in Mayrig's dishes, setting and atmosphere. 

La Petite Maison Staff goes ‘Mo’ for Movember @movember

Global Initiative to Increase Awareness for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common health issues in men today.   It is the third most common cancer worldwide and is the sixth leading cause of cancer mortality in men, often affecting men over 50 years old.  
The gorgeous male staff will be fashionably grooming throughout ‘Movember’ to show their support for men’s health issues. In addition, diners at La Petite Maison will have an option to donate a minimum amount of AED 10 to their bill, with funds raised donated to a local charitable cause. 
Don’t be surprised to see Tom Selleck, David Beckham, or Johnny Depp look-alikes the next time you dine in at La Petite Maison.

AL GHURAIR CENTRE @AlGhurairCentre EMBARKS ON STREET THEATRE CAMPAIGN

World-class acts to transform Al Ghurair Centre into urban theatre landscape

The world’s best street theatre artists are performing for free in Dubai to celebrate Al Ghurair Centre’s retail expansion launch.
Circus acrobats from Colombia, street musicians from America, jugglers and magicians from all over the globe are just some of those taking part in the action-packed calendar of performances which will carry on until the end of the year.
Al Ghurair Centre, which is the city’s oldest mall, has lined the malls avenues with street theatre acts, as well as transforming many of their open spaces with indoor and outdoor stages hosting the various acts, performances which can be enjoyed for free.
David Thurling, Vice President Malls at Al Ghurair Properties, said: "You go anywhere in the UAE and people's shopping experiences are usually very similar.
“That's because there is very little to choose between the malls, whether that's the food court or the retailers.
"We aren't the biggest mall, but we have real soul and that's our strength. We are right at the heart of a bustling, vibrant, urban community where people walk in right off the street. We give them an authentic, memorable experience that fits with who we are.  
"It was a natural step to choose some of the best urban street artists and performers from around the world to entertain our visitors."
From the schedule, Circolombia is a must-see act and are on the main indoor stage in the Central Atrium. The breathtaking urban circus from Colombia has performed in the UK, Australia, France, Germany and Belgium and combines street dance with Banquine, a technique which involves two people launching a third into the air to perform death-defying acrobatics and aerial stunts.
Troupe leader, Maritza Melo Zambrano, said: "The feedback we had from the first audience was fantastic.
"The act looks dangerous because we are thrown very high in the air and is something that takes years of practice.”
The outdoor stage showcases the talents of the Alliance Boys, a three piece percussion band from the US whose drums include dustbins, street signs and cooking pans.
Lead drummer, Vince Romanell, is from Nashville, Tennessee, and said: "It's awesome to come and work here. We are having a great time with the crowd and in the city itself. I have been to the UAE a few times and it gets better each time.   
"We think it's great what Al Ghurair Centre is doing and we are proud to be a part of it. We are just happy to make as many people as possible enjoy themselves."
The calendar
October 1st: Official opening of the Al Ghurair Centre expansion
October 1st – December 31st:  Street Artist Programme
October 13th to 16th: Emir Corbo – Juggler/Close-up Magician
October 17th – 28th: Alliance Boys street drummers
October 16th – November 2nd:  Circ Colombia Urban Circus main event performance
October 31st – November 30th: Battle of the Bands
November 14th – 16th: James More Magician main event performance
November 29th – December 2nd: Emir Corbo – Juggler/Close-up Magician
December 5th – 7th: Dubai Drums
December 17th – 23rd:  Voca People choir main event performance
December 18th – 21st: Emir Corbo – Juggler/Close-up Magician
December 25th to 28th: Emir Corbo – Juggler/Close-up Magician

December 26th – 28th: Dubai Drums

@aljalilauae @HealthcareCity @7EmiratesRun Al Jalila Foundation partners with 7 Emirates Run, sponsored by DHCC

Dr Abdulkareem Al Olama - CEO, Al Jalila Foundation

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, has partnered with a group of professional runners, 7 Emirates Run, dedicated to helping children get back on their feet. This charitable initiative from 7 Emirates Run group is sponsored by Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), an internationally recognised centre of healthcare excellence and a leader in medical education.

The 7 Emirates Run team is made up of seven experienced ultra-marathon runners based in the United Arab Emirates and is led by German Guinness World Record holder Wendelin Lauxen (category: Fastest time to complete a marathon on each of the seven continents). They will cover 575 km across all seven Emirates in 12 days, culminating on 2 December 2013, the 42nd National Day of the UAE. The money raised will be used to pay for life-changing surgery and post-operative medical support for an 18 month old boy from Sharjah, Mohammed Ayoub, who suffers from deformities to both legs. 

Marwan Abedin - CEO, DHCC 

Marwan Abedin, CEO of Dubai Healthcare City, commented: “DHCC is committed to Dubai’s vision to deliver quality health and wellbeing to our society. We are proud of Mr Wendelin Lauxen from German LimbTech who is a shining example of the DHCC community in his tireless efforts to raise awareness for a healthy lifestyle. In our commitment to excellence in healthcare, we at DHCC continue to support our business partners in their endeavours.”

Wendelin Lauxen and his six fellow runners start running on 21 November 2013. Wendelin said: “I set up 7 Emirates Run to embrace a mission of running for help, health and fun.  I strongly believe that this ethos will help create a healthier UAE community - getting people on their feet helps prevent obesity and its consequential diseases such as vascular diseases and diabetes, illnesses blighting our country.  We are helping children get back on their feet by supporting the Al Jalila Foundation and to pay for life-changing surgery and post-operative medical support for a little boy who will soon be able to crawl and then walk.

“This initiative further demonstrates our long-standing commitment to the UAE. I tackled this 575 km ultra-marathon successfully before in 2010 and I now look forward to being joined by six other like-minded and loyal friends of the UAE. I hope our love of combining and nurturing health, fun and philanthropy will lead to 77 runners in the 2014 edition of the 7 Emirates Run !” 

 

Wendelin Lauxen

Dr Abdulkareem Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “We are delighted that 7 Emirates Run have chosen Al Jalila Foundation as its beneficiary. We see Mohammed’s operation as marking a key milestone in Dubai’s efforts to be at the forefront of medical innovation. 

Not only is the run demonstrating extraordinary feats of fitness and determination, but will also change this little boy’s life forever. I am continuously uplifted by these great efforts from people in our community and thank the 7 Emirates Run team for their compassion, generosity and tenacity.”

To support the 7 Emirates Run and Mohammed Ayoub’s life-transforming operation please visit www.7emiratesrun.com to make a contribution.Al Jalila Foundation partners with 7 Emirates Run, sponsored by DHCC

Dubai, UAE, 29 October 2013:  Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, has partnered with a group of professional runners, 7 Emirates Run, dedicated to helping children get back on their feet. This charitable initiative from 7 Emirates Run group is sponsored by Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), an internationally recognised centre of healthcare excellence and a leader in medical education.

The 7 Emirates Run team is made up of seven experienced ultra-marathon runners based in the United Arab Emirates and is led by German Guinness World Record holder Wendelin Lauxen (category: Fastest time to complete a marathon on each of the seven continents). They will cover 575 km across all seven Emirates in 12 days, culminating on 2 December 2013, the 42nd National Day of the UAE. The money raised will be used to pay for life-changing surgery and post-operative medical support for an 18 month old boy from Sharjah, Mohammed Ayoub, who suffers from deformities to both legs. 

Marwan Abedin, CEO of Dubai Healthcare City, commented: “DHCC is committed to Dubai’s vision to deliver quality health and wellbeing to our society. We are proud of Mr Wendelin Lauxen from German LimbTech who is a shining example of the DHCC community in his tireless efforts to raise awareness for a healthy lifestyle. In our commitment to excellence in healthcare, we at DHCC continue to support our business partners in their endeavours.”

Wendelin Lauxen and his six fellow runners start running on 21 November 2013. Wendelin said: “I set up 7 Emirates Run to embrace a mission of running for help, health and fun.  I strongly believe that this ethos will help create a healthier UAE community - getting people on their feet helps prevent obesity and its consequential diseases such as vascular diseases and diabetes, illnesses blighting our country.  We are helping children get back on their feet by supporting the Al Jalila Foundation and to pay for life-changing surgery and post-operative medical support for a little boy who will soon be able to crawl and then walk.

“This initiative further demonstrates our long-standing commitment to the UAE. I tackled this 575 km ultra-marathon successfully before in 2010 and I now look forward to being joined by six other like-minded and loyal friends of the UAE. I hope our love of combining and nurturing health, fun and philanthropy will lead to 77 runners in the 2014 edition of the 7 Emirates Run !” 

Dr Abdulkareem Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “We are delighted that 7 Emirates Run have chosen Al Jalila Foundation as its beneficiary. We see Mohammed’s operation as marking a key milestone in Dubai’s efforts to be at the forefront of medical innovation. 

Not only is the run demonstrating extraordinary feats of fitness and determination, but will also change this little boy’s life forever. I am continuously uplifted by these great efforts from people in our community and thank the 7 Emirates Run team for their compassion, generosity and tenacity.”

To support the 7 Emirates Run and Mohammed Ayoub’s life-transforming operation please visit www.7emiratesrun.com to make a contribution.