My Dubai

Not just radars, Dubai Police is catching violators with 2,000 cameras

2016-06-17T21:26:00.004-07:00

Traffic Police Chief confirms violators will be caught with security cameras

Dubai Police is cracking down on road violations with the aid of 2,000 street cameras installed across the city.

The authority will be watching around the clock with these new purpose-built cameras that will work in conjunction with the radars that are already installed across the emirate.

Speaking with Al Bayan newspaper, the director of the Dubai Police Traffic Department cautioned violators, these non-flashing cameras would be able to pick out speedsters, hard shoulder and red light jumpers, along with motorists who are causing a menace on the roads and endangering the lives of others.

Colonel Saif Muhair Al Mazroui stated these 2,000 cameras are part of the ‘We Are All Police’ initiative the authority launched earlier.

He further added that these cameras are designed to adjust to road hazards around the clock, which is especially required in the month of Ramadan that has witnessed an alarming spike in road offenses.

Dubai Police had revealed earlier, over 250 traffic accidents were recorded in the emirate on the first day of Ramadan, which the control room received 2,419 calls on the day alone.

Al Mazroui stated motorists are deliberately not adhering to road rules in absence of traffic control devices or police officers.

He also pointed out that activating those cameras would enhance the traffic culture where everyone will be certain their cars and the roads they are driving on is under observation by authority.

A special technical team has been appointed to analyze the video recordings and single out violators with screen grabs and concrete evidence to hold them accountable.

Patrolling gets smarter

These cameras will further support Dubai Police’s smart patrol initiative, which was launched recently by Dubai Police.

The smart patrol sees 12 state-of-the-art cameras installed that can take photos with 360-degree visualisation.

Al Mazroui disclosed among these cameras, there are four special cameras that transmit live broadcast to the command centre; while eight cameras monitor the security of the roads, as well as monitor road violations.

He added, the side camera angles allow the devices to take pictures and run number plates of parked cars.

These images will be linked via an internal computer system with the police patrol and indicate whether the car is required in an impending case, or is wanted by banks or stolen.

He added: “The smart patrol also functions as a regular radar, which can evaluate the vehicle speed if passing near them. If found violating the traffic laws with an excess to the required speed limit, the vehicle will be photographed and recorded with authorities as a violation.”

He added in such a case, the driver would receive an alert via a text message immediately, within in a few minutes.

Al Mazroui asserted these strict controls are aimed at reducing traffic violations and accidents and road death, with the strategic goal of the Dubai Police to achieve zero deaths per 100,000 inhabitants by the year 2020.

Forget Kohinoor, a diamond four times bigger is now in Dubai

2016-05-10T03:45:00.000-07:00

Forget Kohinoor, a diamond four times bigger is now in Dubai

Uncut diamond weighs in at 404 carats compared with Kohinoor’s 105.602 carats

Even as the governments of India, Pakistan and even Afghanistan have all laid a claim on the world-famous Kohinoor diamond that is set in the front of UK’s Queen Mother’s Crown, it is Dubai that can be called home to one of the world’s rarest and largest rough diamonds even discovered.

The astonishing rough diamond in Dubai is characterised not only by its sheer size – an impressive 404 carats – but also uniquely by its colourlessness and flawless clarity. The cut-down Kohinoor, on the other hand, weighs 105.6 carats.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of DMCC and Chair of the Kimberley Process, hosted a press conference in Dubai along with Fawaz Gruosi, Founder and Executive Board Member of diamond jewellers de Grisogono, to announce the latter’s acquisition of the rights to one of the world’s largest and rarest rough diamonds ever discovered.

“Dubai and DMCC have become the global epicentre for the diamond trade and we are delighted to have been part of facilitating the access to one of the world’s largest and rarest diamonds by de Grisogono here at Almas – the world’s tallest diamond tower,” said bin Sulayem.

“Not only does this further cement Dubai’s role as a leading diamond trading hub globally, it also highlights how DMCC connects the industry and the producing and consuming countries along the Silk Road,” he added.

One of the 30 largest top quality rough diamonds ever found, and the largest ever found in Angola, the diamond weighing 404 carats will now be cut and polished by de Grisogono’s cutters.

While Kohinoor was much bigger at 793 carats when it was first found, it was repeatedly cut and polished over the years to achieve its dazzling oval-cut brilliance. Even now, at 105.6 carats (21.12 g) and measuring 3.6cm x 3.2cm x 1.3cm, the Kohinoor’s cut is far from perfect by modern standards. Its culet is unusually broad, giving the impression of a black hole when the stone is viewed head-on.

On the other hand, DMCC along with jewellery-makers de Grisogono have the perfect opportunity to craft the recently discovered diamond into “one of the most beautiful jewellery pieces ever created”.

Contrary to the traditional process, where jewellers are restricted to the polished stones that already exist in the market, with this partnership, de Grisogono will have the opportunity to bring a jeweller’s perspective into the cutting process, maximising the beauty of the final jewellery pieces.

de Grisogono has partnered with Nemesis International, a leading rough diamond trading company based at the DMCC, which works on a day-to-day basis with the best diamond mines in world to identify, select and acquire the most precious diamonds in existence.

DMCC’s Almas Tower, purpose-built for the diamond industry and one of the most influential diamond trading centres in the world, provides a leading platform for such a significant acquisition.

“This diamond marks one of the most important milestones in my career both as a jeweller and a designer. Words cannot express how grateful my team and I are to DMCC and Nemesis International for such a unique collaboration,” said Fawaz Gruosi.

Do Ramadan timings also apply to non-fasting employees?

2016-05-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

Do Ramadan timings also apply to non-fasting employees?

UAE Labour Law does not differentiate among fasting, non-fasting staff, but regulations differ in Dubai’s financial free zone

During the month of Ramadan, employees in the UAE are entitled to work reduced office hours, with an average two hours reduced from the daily job schedule, but there may be exceptions.

While the UAE Labour Law does not differentiate between fasting and non-fasting employees, the regulations are different within Dubai’s financial free zone.

The UAE Labour Law provides that working hours should be reduced by two hours per day during Ramadan, and does not differentiate between fasting and non-fasting employees. So, the reduced work-hours rule is applicable to all Muslim and non-Muslim employees and irrespective of whether they are fasting or not.

Within the DIFC, however, only fasting employees’ working hours are reduced by two hours. Non-fasting employees may be required by their employers to work regular hours.

As per Article 65 of the UAE Labour Law, the maximum number of ordinary working hours for adult workers shall be eight hours per day, or 48 hours per week. The number of hours may be increased to nine hours per day for people employed in trade, hotels, cafeterias, security and other jobs.

Pay-cut for reduced working days?

According to the UAE Labour Law, ordinary working hours shall be reduced by two hours during Ramadan; so this means that employees should only work 6 hours per day (as the statutory maximum working hours are 8 hours per day).

This, however, does not mean that employees should take a pay cut for the reduced hours.

Compensate for reduced hours by working from home?

Employers cannot ask their employees to work extra hours from home, as this will also be counted towards the employee’s total hours.

Exceptions?

There are certain exceptions that both employers and employees need to be aware of. The law for non-fasting employees in the DIFC also varies.

If a company does ask their employees to work their regular hours during Ramadan, they should compensate the staff accordingly as these hours will be considered overtime.

The authorities do conduct checks from time to time to ensure that companies are compliant with the Labour Law and employees are working Ramadan hours.

If a company is found in breach of the Labour Law, the authorities have the discretion to penalise such a company. The penalty is at the discretion of the authorities and may be imposed on a case-by-case basis.

A ministerial circular on the reduction of work hours this Ramadan is awaited.

UAE bank warns of 'Magic Pen' fraud; how to avoid it

2016-05-06T22:38:00.001-07:00

UAE bank warns of 'Magic Pen' fraud; how to avoid it

Never issue a blank security cheque, fill details with your own pen

Banks in the UAE are warning customers not to fall prey to a new 'Magic Pen' method used by fraudsters.

“In our effort to provide you with an environment of safe and secure banking, we would like to inform you about a new 'Magic Pen' method used by fraudsters recently, posing as bank representatives to dupe customers,” the bank said in a notice sent to customers.

“These fraudsters ask customers to complete the loan / credit card applications and provide a blank signed security cheque wherein the imposter fills up the details on the cheque in their presence using his magic pen.

“Subsequently, the details of beneficiary and amount in the cheque are altered since it was filled up with the magic pen, which allows the details entered to be erased without a trace. The cheque is then cashed from various banks using third parties,” the notice said.

We spoke to an Indian businessman based in Ras Al Khaimah who has fallen prey to the 'magic pen' a fraud.

The businessman, who asked not to be named, claimed that he was approached by a person, who claimed to be representative of a local bank and offered him the much-needed credit facility.

“The caller introduced himself as a bank representative and took all the documents, including a ‘security cheque’ for Dh100,000 and asking me to keep a minimum balance of Dh100,000 in my bank account.

“I gave the cheque in the bank’s name, but the amount and beneficiary details were found to have been altered, allegedly using a ‘magic pen’,” the businessman claimed, adding that Dh98,000 had been withdrawn from his account.

A complaint has been filed with the Ras Al Khaimah police and an investigation is ongoing.

So how do you protect yourself? Here is what the bank states:

# Please ask the representative to identify himself and check his photo ID card issued by the bank.

# Do not issue a blank security cheque. Please fill in all details in the cheque including name of the beneficiary (which should be the bank’s name) and amount with your own pen.

# Do not use the pens provided by the other party to fill in details of the cheque

# If in doubt contact the concerned bank on their land line and confirm that the representative indeed works for the bank he claims to represent.

Pooja

2016-05-03T04:10:00.002-07:00

Ohm Maha Ganapathaye Namaha

Dubai launches International Centre for 3D Printing

2016-05-02T21:33:00.001-07:00

Dubai launches International Centre for 3D Printing

Centre will host 700 companies to make Dubai a major hub of 3D printing technology

Dubai Holding has launched the International Center for 3D Printing to make Dubai an international destination for 3D printing by 2030.

The project, located at Dubai Industrial City, will create a suitable atmosphere and provide the appropriate infrastructure to bring under one roof a network of design and technology suppliers as well as factories.

It will include research centres and laboratories for testing materials used in 3D printed products within an integrated environment dedicated to serve construction, medicine, and consumer products sectors. It will also involve the academic sector, which will add innovation and educational value to this initiative through research and development.

The new project aims to build a network of distinguished companies in the 3D printing sector by attracting entrepreneurs and innovators as well as targeting international enterprises locally and globally by offering special laboratories for 3D printing. It will also offer services, professional training, facilities, storage solution, and other logistical support to strengthen this sector.

“We will work on providing a suitable environment for specialised companies and attracting innovative minds by offering the required infrastructure that match the aspirations of the wise leadership. We believe that the new strategy will be a vital element in creating support for Dubai's key role in the area of 3D printing,” said Dr. Amina Al Rustamani, Group CEO of Tecom Investments.

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The centre focuses on providing all the components in an integrated system to take this technology from the ideas and innovation stage to the design phase, and provide the materials to a promising market within the, construction, medical and consumer product sectors,” said Saif Al Aleeli, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation.

Al Aleeli pointed out that the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy is particularly relevant to the construction sector considering that the strategy aims to 3D print 25 per cent of buildings in Dubai by 2030. This will create a huge demand in the market and offer large investment opportunities for companies and investors locally, regionally and globally, he added.

“The next phase of the International Centre for 3D Printing is to translate the vision of our wise leadership in the 3D printing domain by providing the latest technology and the best solutions in the industry to meet the requirements of local and international companies in this sector. The centre will offer the advantages of strategic location, advanced infrastructure, developed offices, warehouses, exhibition facilities, not to mention the integrated support system that will enable companies to establish their business. The centre will host more than 700 local and international companies to make Dubai a major hub of 3D printing technology,” said Abdullah Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Industrial City.

Dubai 3D Printing Strategy, which aims to make Dubai a global capital of 3D printing technologies by 2030, will focus on three major sectors: Construction, Medical Products, Consumer Products.

The Dubai 3D Printing Strategy has five main pillars, namely: Infrastructure, Legislative Structure, Funding, Talent and Market Demand.

The recent report of Strategy &, a global research institution, showed that 3D printing is at the forefront global industry trends in 2016 and will play a major role in reducing the manufacturing cost and time in construction sector. The sector will grow dramatically to become an important segment in the coming period, it added.

Midumidukkan

2015-10-20T01:54:00.001-07:00

https://youtu.be/8QPsX0zoQVc

Indoor Snowball Fight

2015-10-19T18:47:00.001-07:00

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UAE jobseeker alert: Most employers on hiring spree; click for sectors

2015-10-13T05:36:00.000-07:00

Most new jobs expected to be created for professionals in middle management roles

Jobseekers in the UAE and the region will have more job options in the coming months as majority of the employers in the country and the Middle East expect new jobs to be created in the next six months.

According to the September hiring outlook survey by NaukriGulf, a jobs website, 58 per cent of recruiters who participated expect new jobs to be created in the months ahead, giving hope to candidates who may be currently looking to switch jobs or find new ones.

The survey was conducted among 140 recruiters in the Middle East with employers and recruitment consultants accounting for 79 and 21 per cent of the respondents, respectively.

A majority are hopeful of new jobs that will be added to the market and certain sectors look more promising than others when it comes to opportunities.

A sizeable number (35 per cent) of recruitment consultants expect construction sector to see the bulk of new job creation.

Construction and its allied sectors are the top choice of consultants when it comes to maximum job-creation. Banking & finance, hospitality and retail are also strong contenders for new job-creation over the next six months.

Most new jobs are expected to be created for professionals in the middle management roles. Forty-four per cent of employers expect new jobs being created for middle management roles (3-8 years’ experience), while 25 per cent expect new jobs to be created at senior management and CXO levels.

“As far as job-creation and hiring scenario are concerned, 2015 looks to be a better year than 2014. With the recent decline in oil prices, oil & gas and related sectors are expected to see a dip in the creation of new jobs.

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"However, construction and allied sectors continue to grow, given the build-up towards Expo 2020 in UAE, the Fifa World Cup 2022 in Qatar and increased focus on infrastructure development. The overall economic outlook, hence, remains largely positive,” says Tarun Aggarwal, Business Head – Naukrigulf.com.

Employers also expressed confidence of lesser talent crunch and lower attrition in the local job market.

A high number (84 per cent) of the employers say that they are enjoying low attrition rates of less than 15 per cent in their organisations, adding stability to the job market.

Also, 76 per cent employers expect attrition to either remain stable or reduce further over the next 6 months, compared to 68 per cent sharing this sentiment in March 2015.

Reducing the woes of the employers, the second half of 2015 heralds good news with employers expressing an improvement in talent availability.

A majority (52 per cent) of employers are confident of not facing any talent crunch in the next six months as well, compared to only 39 per cent in March 2015.

The survey has also indicated that the maximum talent crunch is felt in the middle management roles (experience bracket of 3-8 years) and among nationalities of Asian origin.

New UAE Labour Law: Job offer letters will be legally binding

2015-09-30T04:03:00.001-07:00

Any offer letter given to foreign worker will be legally binding once accepted and signed by both parties

Consider it a new year’s bonus.

From January 1, 2016, the UAE will implement sweeping reforms to the existing Labour Law, plugging loopholes that will now make employees even more content and secure in their workplace.

The primary changes to be enforced next year, as outlined by Minister of Labour, Saqr Ghobash Saeed Ghobash, pertain to employment contracts for workers hired from abroad, termination of job contracts, and issuance of new labour permits to resident workers.

As per new regulations, any offer letter made to a foreign worker will become legally binding once accepted and signed by both parties.

The resolution issued by the Minister of Labour mandates that employers will be required to disclose to the Ministry the terms of the offer made to a foreign worker.

The offer letters will be required to be detailed, and must contain a comprehensive description of the rights and duties of the employee, as well as outline the terms and conditions of employment.

The Ministry also requires that the employer ensures that the workers have seen the offer and agreed to its terms in a language that they understand.

This means that there cannot be significant changes between the offer letter and the terms of the final employment contract between a foreign workers and their employer, doing away with the possibility of any confusion or wrong-doing.

To enforce this resolution, the Ministry stipulates that the employee’s work permit at the Ministry of Labour is based on the offer letter that will be stored in the Ministry’s database.

The offer letter to a foreign worker will, therefore, become a legal contract, and the employer will not be allowed to alter or replace any of its provisions unless such changes have the consent of both the parties (the employer and the employee), and that any such changes do not prejudice the right of the worker and are not against the law.

The same holds true for a worker within the UAE, and the worker must sign and agree to the terms of the offer letter before the employer can seek the Ministry’s preliminary approval for his employment.

The UAE intends to enforce a new labour law at the start of 2016 to better regulate the relationship between employers and workers and curb violations to ensure both parties will get their rights.

The new law includes three main rules governing labour contracts for workers from abroad, terminating contracts between the employers and workers and the issuance of a new work permit to a resident worker.

“These rules will take the labour market to a new stage based on a strong and balanced relationship between all parties and on agreement and transparency in contracting to guarantee the rights of all parties,” Labour Minister Saqr Gobash said.

Which is better.. Keyboard or Piano?

2015-09-19T07:18:00.002-07:00

Real pianos are great but the one big drawback is you can’t turn the volume down so with a piano you tend to end up playing for the neighbours. With a keyboard you can stick on some headphones and play whatever turns you on – you can experiment, make mistakes and sound silly and play something a thousand times without driving other people nuts. Ideally – have BOTH! If you are buying a piano it is preferable to buy an overstrung piano not a straight strung! How to tell: Lift the top lid of the piano you should see the tuning pins at the top of the piano. If the tuning pins are evenly spaced along the pin block and the strings are all parallel and vertical this is a straight strung piano. If there is a group of tuning pins at the left and a separate group at the right and the strings cross over in a X shape this is an overstrung piano. Also get a tuner to check it out. I bought a piano once that needed to have the wood treated because all the pins (that tighten the strings) were coming loose very quickly after being tuned – disaster! What Keyboard should you choose? A lot depends on what you want. Do you want a keyboard that sounds and feels like a Piano – then you’re looking for a keyboard or Digital Piano with WEIGHTED keys. Listen carefully to the piano sound – don’t be bamboozled by all the other buttons. If you want something portable then you are looking for a keyboard. Personally I would still look for one with weighted keys – I hate the feel of light plastic keys. Get a keyboard with at least 61 keys – anything less and you will be craving for more keys after a few days. Also make sure get a sustain pedal, a keyboard is absloutely a dead thing without one. Without a sustain pedal as soon as you lift your finger off a key the sound stops dead – with a piano at least the strings vibrate for a second or two – the difference is quite noticeable. Click Here! to know more

Piano practice can be fun too!..

2015-09-19T07:17:00.002-07:00

Most people don’t really want to ‘learn’ to play the piano or ‘practice’ the piano, they just want to ‘play’ piano. ‘Play’ sounds like fun, ‘practice’ sounds like a chore. We get this image from childhood – some kid stuck indoors ‘practicing’ scales while all the other kids are outside the window ‘playing’.

So, first thing we need to do is to see our piano practice in a new light. See it as a way of accelerating the learning process so that SOON you’ll be able to ‘play’ piano and play it well. If you don’t practice and you just play old familiar tunes you move rather slowly. Yes, you’ll get better at playing those old familiar tunes but technically you won’t be pushing yourself to greater heights.

Proper, structured piano practice helps you stride forwards. I say ‘proper’ because a lot of people have an idea that practice IS just playing songs over and over. Practice needs to involve unchartered territory. The golden rule is – ‘practice what you CAN’T play, not what you CAN play’.

First of all, work out what you want to achieve. Do you just want to know all your chords without thinking about how they are formed – then work out a practice routine that leads to that goal. Maybe you want to learn about inversions or chord substitution – again, make the practice fit the goal.

Split your practice session into two halves. In the first half play the difficult stuff – your mind is sharper to begin with – then reward yourself with some enjoyable but reasonably difficult tunes. Make sure you are comfortable. Many a bad back has happened because of a bad piano stool at the wrong height. Make sure your piano is in tune. If you don’t have a good piano and are serious about learning GO BUY A GOOD ONE.
Every fifteen minutes stretch your arms and shoulders and roll your neck to combat stiffness. Check out some Yoga exercises for shoulders and back.

Follow the 3 times daily rule. Repetition in practice is ESSENTIAL. If you find something particularly difficult make sure you practice it at least 3 times every day. Don’t worry if it takes months to master – you’ll get there.
Don’t play for the neighbours. Practice piano at a time when you don’t care who is listening so that you can make lot’s of mistakes and play things over and over. Organise your piano music carefully – don’t keep it in a heap where you keep playing the ones on top. If you download sheet music put it in a folder. Have plenty of shelves near the piano. Be realistic – I truly believe that anyone can learn piano and learn it to an enjoyable level but no two people are alike – some are more ‘naturally’ gifted than others. If you have an average ability then it’s all down to practice. The more you practice the more you learn.

Now and then, practice with your eyes closed – or don’t look at the keys – this really sharpens you up. Organise your life so that practice is possible (this where Mindfulness comes in). Too many people think they don’t have time to practice when really they just haven’t found the time. How long should you practice – that’s up to what you want to achieve. You don’t have to be a concert pianist. Even if you just play for yourself just enjoy that. The archer who’s mind is on the prize cannot stay focussed on the target. Accept the bad days when it seems like you can’t play a note. Sometimes it’s better to walk away. So remember that ‘playing’ piano and ‘practicing’ piano are different. Which do you do? Aim for a bit of both.

Click Here! to know more

Now it's Robo-Doc's turn to treat you

2015-09-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

Robot arrives at Hatta Hospital

A robot has been added to the staff at Hatta Hospital’s Trauma Center and will be doing rounds from this week.

DubaiRobodoc was presented at the Interactive Health Forum last week and has only just started ‘working’. He already knows his way to every patient room, and will be providing a helping pair of eyes.

The man behind the screen is Moin Fikree, Medical Director of the Trauma Hospital at Rashid Hospital.

“When a doctor dials in, the patient will actually see me on the screen, while I can observe the patient,” he says.

“I can talk to the patient, observe vital signs, see the x-rays or CPG’s taken and examine the patient by asking him to raise his right arm, open his mouth, stick out his tongue etc.

“I can even listen to his lungs or heart.”

Based on the observations made Fikree can then make his recommendations.

“I can tell the doctor to apply certain medicine, and monitor the patient after the treatment was given. The patient is now out of risk and can be transported to Rashid Hospital.”

DubaiRobodoc was introduced to make specialist health care more available across hospitals run by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

As a start one robot has been deployed at the Trauma Centre Hatta Hospital, where no specialists are available at a 24-hour basis.

Especially at the Trauma Centre time can play a crucial role, the doctor explains.

“In case of a stroke, for example, the treatment should be given in three hours. Imagine a patient suffering from an acute stroke in his house. When he arrives in the emergency room half an hour was already lost. The patient must then be examined, and the specialist is not available he must be transported to Rashid Hospital. A lot of time will be lost.”

Although DubaiRobodoc is now the only robot available, more robots will be deployed in the future.

“This can work in all sorts of health related issues, such as a simple skin rash, for example. A general practitioner may diagnose it and refer the patient to a dermatologist.

“The patient then needs to make an appointment, go to another clinic, wait for the doctor, while the same practitioner can dial in with this technology, and the patient will be seen right away.”

Not everything can be done through the robot, admits Fikree. “There are some limitations. In some cases I will need to use my hands, and I will really have to see the patient. But I think it can be done in 75 per cent of the cases, if the patient agrees.”

Asked whether he will be able to handle the large number of patients now requiring his expertise, he says that these patients would eventually come to him anyway. “We would see these patients in any case, but we are seeing them in a different way now.”

The technology has been tested with simulated cases and is now ready to be used in reality. “We saw a patient who suffered multiple injuries after he was thrown out of a car. We diagnosed him, started immediate treatment and then ordered his transportation to Rashid Hospital immediately,” said the doctor.

Dubai developers set ball rolling with mega projects

2015-09-18T23:29:00.003-07:00

Details of Expo 2020 plan will unleash private developments as well

Meraas’ La Mer, Jumeirah [SUPPLIED]

Upbeat property developers in Dubai kicked off the day one at Cityscape Global on Sunday with series of new launches – master developments to standalone projects, but primarily targeting the upmarket segment.

Prices in Dubai’s luxury market still are growing at the fastest pace in the world. In the year to March 2014, prices are up almost 25 per cent, though transactions have slowed down.

However, Dubai Land Department said that total value of real estate transactions had crossed Dh155 billion on as of September 2014, and the market was set for further growth.

The new projects launches were apart from the ones that Emirates 24|7 reported earlier yesterday.

The major announcements, once again, came from state-owned developers, however, property experts believe private sector will become active once the work starts on Expo 2020 venue site and all infrastructure plans are unveiled.

In its Q3 Dubai property market report, CBRE, a global real etsate consultancy, said positive market and economic fundamentals over the past 12 months has seen a growing number of developers moving ahead with stalled projects as well as the launch of multiple new schemes within a short time period.

The sales market, however, grew at a slower rate than in previous quarters with average sales prices increasing by around three per cent quarter-on-quarter, bringing the annual growth close to 23 per cent.

The best performing segment of the market during the quarter was found to be high-end apartments, a trend that was also visible in buying patterns with prime areas such as Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah seeing the majority of transaction activity, the consultancy said.

Meraas’ La Mer, Jumeirah

Meraas Holding, which is building theme parks and Bluewaters Island launched La Mer, a mixed-use development that will take shape in Jumeirah in the vicinity of Pearl Jumeirah Island.

Construction is set to commence in Q4 2014, the developer said, which is also building theme parks and Bluewaters Island.

La Mer will spread across 9.5 million square feet of existing and reclaimed land. It comprises four distinct zones - the beach, a leisure and entertainment hub, North Island, and South Island and feature commercial, leisure, residential and hospitality components.

“Our feasibility studies have confirmed that La Mer will be one on the projects which will positively contribute to Dubai's economy and set new global benchmarks for beachfront developments,” said Abdulla Al Habbai, Group Chairman, Meraas Holding.

On North Island and South Island, La Mer will include fully integrated residential neighbourhoods that will have 688 apartments and villas and a 160 key hotel.

Midtown by Deyaar

Deyaar Development, listed on Dubai Financial Market, unveiled Midtown by Deyaar - a 5.5 million square feet “upscale” master development adjacent to the southern end of Jumeirah Golf Estates.

“Midtown will continue Deyaar’s tradition of quality projects taking design-led luxury living to a new level in the region. This project will create a distinctive cultural ambiance that enriches the lifestyle of its occupants,” Saeed Al Qatami, Chief Executive, Deyaar, said.

Midtown by Deyaar will include a total of 27 buildings and will house two hotels on the northern and southern tips, along with 13 separate residential buildings on the east side of the development, and 12 buildings clustered into four groups.

While three buildings are joined into one group on the west side of the master plan, all the 27 buildings will share a one level podium covering retail, parking, and essential services.

Nakheel’s The Palm Gateway
Nakheel launched The Palm Gateway – a three-tower waterfront living and leisure complex with more than 1,300 homes, a beach club, retail, dining and health and fitness facilities.

The Palm Gateway comprises three individually - designed high-rise residential buildings – the tallest topping 260 metres – with one, two and three bedroom apartments, available for lease.

The trio of towers will be constructed on the existing Palm Monorail Gateway terminal, the roof of which will be transformed into a 15th floor podium with infinity pool, shops and sports facilities set in extensively landscaped grounds.

Palm Gateway will also have its own beach club and park – a shaded, landscaped complex with a diverse range of waterfront dining and shopping options, pool, barbecue areas and fitness facilities, including a jogging track.

Meydan’s District Eleven

Meydan Group announced two major new projects: Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City District Eleven and Meydan Avenue, two mixed-use developments.

District Eleven is a suburban mixed-use community development featuring parks, private schools and retail businesses with two prime residential areas. The residential areas cover a total ground floor area of 450,000 square metres and 210,000 square metres, respectively.

One of the unique elements to District Eleven will be Kent College Canterbury – Meydan, a partnership between Meydan Group and one of the most respected educational institutes in the UK. The school will eventually accommodate up to 2,000 students; sport and recreational facilities will include football and rugby fields, cricket grounds and a running track.

Meydan Avenue, which was previously known as Diamond Business Park, will offer a blend of residential, commercial, retail and recreational
facilities enhanced by the sports and leisure attractions.

Completing the range of developments at Meydan Avenue will be the new Meydan Headquarters, a 17,500 square metres facility with 11,600
square metres available as leasable office space to local and international businesses.

Meydan Chairman, Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, said, "We are building desirable communities in Dubai which will become integral areas for living and working in the years to come. It’s an exciting time for us at Meydan as construction is underway on both of these major new projects and will soon be coming to life."

DP’s Maram Residence
Dubai Properties (DP) launched Maram Residence in Burj Khalifa district, a two-tower project.

“The project will cater to the increased demand for luxury residential and commercial property in strategic locations across Dubai, and we anticipate that its launch will further support the development of Dubai by catering to its growing population,” said Mohammed Alhabbai, Chief Officer for Urban Planning and Infrastructure at Dubai Properties Group.

The two 27 storey towers will have unit options including one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments along with six exclusive penthouse suites.
Maram Residence will include a business lounge, an indoor children’s play area, an outdoor children’s play and pool area, a state of the art gym and fitness area, a jogging track, a sky Garden with seating areas and water features, and an infinity pool deck at roof level with a lounge for an ideal urban living experience.

Contract awarding process has begun, with the piling and enabling contract being awarded to NSCC Contracting Company.

Damac’s Paramount Hotel

Damac Properties and luxury hotel operator, Paramount Hotels & Resorts launched Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown. Housing 1,250 rooms and suites, the hotel will showcase timeless Hollywood elegance with Californian lifestyle and integrate elements of Paramount Pictures movies through high tech media mapping and digital signage.

Concept design of the project which will be developed on a plot located just off Sheikh Zayed road in the Downtown area is already underway with the hotel set to open its doors in 2018.

“The number of visitors to Dubai is set to double in the next six years and the Paramount Hotel Dubai, Downtown will support the growth with a high-end, theatrical and immersive experience for international tourists,” said Ziad El Chaar, Managing Director, Damac Properties.

6 checks when buying a used car in UAE

2015-09-18T23:28:00.003-07:00

From the exterior to the dashboard – what to look for when checking out a second-hand car

True car lovers will only vouch for buying brand new cars equipped with the latest technology.

Used machines depreciate, they believe, and will only give you a lot of heartache and headache as you discover a new problem each day.

This is true, especially for those who, to begin with, are true car lovers and of course have the money to drive a new set of wheels every two years.

For the rest, who consider a car as only a medium to take them from point A to B, from their homes to office and to the grocery store, a used car at a fraction of the original price makes practical and economic sense.

Buying a used car is not a bad idea and, with a bit of research and caution, you can still drive second-hand wheels without all the associated problems that keep the car and technology enthusiasts at bay.

Here are six important things that you should remember when going in for a used car to avoid the frequent garage visits.

#1 Check the exterior of the car

The exterior of the car can tell you a lot about what to expect when you open its doors.

The upkeep of the car will speak of the engine maintenance and its overall health and a little bit of attentiveness can also reveal the difference between the original and a new coat of paint.

According to Al Futtaim Automall, a pre-owned cars dealer in the UAE, you should carefully check the exterior paintwork for fading, rust, dents and scratches.

“Study the car surface from its four corners. Any waviness spotted in the body paint indicates new paintwork.

“Also, run your finger along the edges of the joints, between the panels, feeling for roughness which is created from leftover masking tape, another tell-tale sign of a recent paint touch-up,” experts at the company says.

If you can feel a new layer of paint on top of the original paint, be wary of red flags. The car has probably been in an accident.

Examine the chassis of the car very carefully.

“Never buy the car if there is any kind of damage to the chassis because that car will generally not be given a green light by car registration and inspection authorities, particularly in UAE,” says Hassan Siddiqi, Business Head, www.yallamotor.com

#2 Look for rust

Look for corrosion or rust in all possible areas. According to www.uaeusedcar.com, this is one thing that potential buyers should not forget, especially if the machine is more than five years old.

With the UAE’s hot and harsh weather, chances of rust increase if the car hasn’t been maintained well.

Look for rust at the top and rear of the front wings, along the side sills, below front and rear bumpers and the bottoms of the doors – in a nutshell, in all possible areas where the metal can get rusted.

“Sometimes a rust blemish on the paintwork can indicate more serious corrosion underneath.

“Press the panel gently with your thumb. If there is a cracking noise, it indicates advanced corrosion,” the website advises.

#3 What does the mileage say?

This is a very obvious one, but an important factor nevertheless that you need to consider. Always check the car’s odometer for mileage. It’s like the wrinkles on our face and easily tells the age of the machine.

“On average, a normal usage car will cover between 25,000km to 30,000km a year.

“However, this depends on many factors. Remember, cars age by mileage and over time too. So, buying a 10 year old car with very low mileage is not necessarily a good thing either. It is equally important that the owner has taken good care of the car and serviced it regularly as well,” suggest experts at Automall.

#4 Get a feel of the engine

The engine should be neither too clean nor too dirty. A very dirty one says that the car has suffered from neglect whereas a sparkling shiny one will tell you a clean-up job has been done to cover problems.

Have a look at the general state of the engine.

Check the colour of the oil, the quantity and colour of coolant and pay attention to the kind of noise that the engine makes as you turn on the ignition.

#5 Get to know the history

You should always find out about the history of the car, especially ones that have American specifications.

And this is why we suggest doing so. “In many cases, these cars still have their VIN number printed on the dashboard. A quick check-up using VIN number can be done online.

“Also, use other sources, like the stickers on the car giving details of the original US dealer or the original registration that might still be in the car. If you are a resident of Al Ain or Abu Dhabi in UAE, you can check car service history by logging to Abu Dhabi Ministry of Interior website,” explains Siddiqi.

“In most situations, the previous owner would have kept a record of the car’s service history and should be willing to share this information with you. If this information is not available, Automall recommends taking it for a further check-up.

#6 Stick to cars meant for UAE roads

While in Rome, do as Romans do. This was apt then and is so now. If you are living in the UAE and will drive on these roads, it’s best to buy in the country than get it imported from elsewhere.

Cars bought elsewhere can have specifications that don’t meet UAE requirements and may cause trouble later.

Another word of caution here – don’t get a car from the junkyard of another country into your parking bay.

“Last year there were many cars imported that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy in New York.

“For example, a 2013 Honda Pilot Touring, which has been damaged in hurricane Sandy was imported.

“This car will be taken to workshops, made to look brand new and then sold to customers at below market prices. Unsuspecting customers may buy it, thinking they got a bargain.

“In reality, they will be buying cars that have been written off by insurance companies and banks in the US,” maintains Siddiqi.

UAE employees allowed to work part-time at another job: MoL

2015-09-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

UAE employees allowed to work part-time at another job: MoL

Employees of one entity may work for another if conditions are met

Many employees in the UAE believe that having a part-time job if s/he is employed elsewhere is illegal in the country and those flouting the rules will be penalised. That isn’t entirely true.

Since 2010, the UAE’s Labour Law has provisions that allow an employee to opt for a part-time job along with a full-time one. If certain conditions are met, a person who is already employed by an entity may work for another employer – legally.

What the UAE Ministry of Labour says

As told to Emirates 24|7, the UAE’s Ministry of Labour says that a part-time work permit is valid for one year. This work permit can be issued to local, GCC and expatriate employees to work in another company on a part-time basis, which is less than eight hours and at the same time with their current work.

It is up to the employer to give the no objection certificate (NOC) to the employee. The applicant (18 years) on family sponsorship/ student (male and female more than 18 years) can also work on a part-time work permit with NOC from the sponsor. Such work permits can be issued to employee between 18 and 65 years of age.

The fee for part-time work permit includes an application fee of Dh100 and an approval fee of Dh500, the UAE’s Ministry of Labour said in comments to this website.

“As a result of amendments to the Federal Immigration and Labour Laws in 2010, it is now possible for non-UAE nationals (expatriates) to hold a second job,” Jamie Liddington, Senior Associate at Hadef & Partners, explained to Emirates 24|7.

“The employee must remain employed and sponsored by the first (full-time) employer who must consent in writing to the employee taking on a part-time job,” Liddington told this website. “An application for a part-time work permit should then be submitted to the Ministry of Labour by the second (part-time) employer together with supporting documents (including the first employer’s letter of consent) and payment of a fee which varies according the part-time employer’s status,” he explained.

Sara Khoja, Partner, Middle East Employment Group at Clyde and Co LLP states that all parties should agree amicably and the route to a part-time job can be paved.

“If both employers are registered with the Ministry of Labour, then, it is possible for an employee to be sponsored by one company but to also work part-time for another company, provided the Ministry of Labour issues a temporary work permit for the second employer,” she told this website.

“If the employers are registered with the Department of Immigration only and not with the Ministry of Labour, then there are also temporary work permits which can be obtained,” she explains further.

And, the good news is that many employers are letting their employees go for this option. “In our experience, most employers will allow employees to take on a second job where the employee can show that the part-time work will not interfere with or adversely affect the employee’s performance in the full time role. However, each sector is different and each particular case will depend on the facts,” says the Hadef expert.

Another important thing to consider here is the difference between part-time jobs and freelancing and both should be treated differently.

Freelancing is working for yourself, where you are essentially a company made up of one person, which is perfectly legal as long as you are licensed to do so. If you are a freelancer, then you will need to secure a Trade License pertaining to your business activity from your selected Licensing Authority, and adhere to their stipulations, says Alexandra Tohme, Community Manager at Nabbesh.com, a virtual skills marketplace, especially catering to freelancers in the region.

The add-on part-time jobs may provide a sort of quick-fix solution to those who may have missed payments to banks or are finding it hard to make their ends meet, or simply wish to make more money and are ready to burn the midnight’s oil, proverbially speaking.

Almost 8 out of 10 people in the UAE are indebted to their banks, according to an online poll run by compareit4me.com.

More than half of the respondents of the online poll run by the website said they have a credit card loan (54.7 per cent), followed by personal loans (43.6 per cent), car loans (12.6 per cent) and mortgages (4.1 per cent) and, worse, they are missing on the schedules payments.

If you are in such a sticky situation, financial prudence is the best policy but to get rid of these payments and also to sustain yourself, you could well consider a part-time after you finish your daily obligations with your full time employer.

It may be a good short-term solution to financial woes, but can be a very exhausting exercise in the long term. Nonetheless, something to fall back on until the next increment at your workplace.

Best Quotation for Printing Jobs

2014-12-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

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I obtained your info from Internet and learnt that you may interest in our Printing Service.

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specialist cover in catalogues, periodical magazines, brochures, flyers, children's books,

calendars, stickers, Swing Tags etc related to printing, etc.

2, Our good quality, we have rich experience in printing field for almost 20 years, and we own

clients from worldwide. Most of them have become our long-term partner.

3, our price, we always try our utmost to offer our clients the most competitive price, and I am

sure our price will be much lower than your local supplier. Also our service for our clients is another

important element which makes us stand strong in the printing market. We will always stand in the

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Anyway, actions speak louder than words. So why not take actions now, tell me your specific

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Registration of child for EOI

2014-12-10T03:13:00.000-08:00

Documents Required

Application in EAP-I (Abu Dhabi) (EAP-I Dubai.pdf) form. The name and other details should match the birth certificate of the child. Surname can be added for the child by getting sworn affidavit duly attested by the Indian Embassy. All originals should be produced at the time of submission for verification.
5 recent photos with white background and frontal view.(51mm*51mm).
English Legal Translation of the Birth Certificate has to be attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs UAE.
Two forms one for declaration and other for registration of birth has to be signed by both the parents.
Passport copies of both the parents must include front page, back page and the valid visa page.
Both father and mother name has to be endorsed on the other passport. If it was not done the same can be done with the joint affidavit declaration by the parents duly attested by the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi along with the original marriage certificate. Or the parents can apply for Endorsement of spouse name along with the child s application.(Details can be found under Endorsement of spouse name).
If any one of the parents is from other nationality, NOC has to be produced from the embassy of the same stating that Embassy doesn’t have any objection in issuing an Indian passport and also the embassy has not issued any passport to the new born.
Refer Checklist before going to BLS for submitting application.

Gratuity (End of Service Benifit) Calculation as per UAE Labor Rules

2014-08-09T06:59:00.002-07:00

How to spot a fake tyre

2014-04-10T05:55:00.001-07:00

Summer or winter tyres?

The winter tyre is among the biggest challenges to tyre safety in the UAE. In the UAE, only the sale of a Type A and Type B is permitted, codes which symbolise the heat resistance of a tyre, In other countries where temperatures do not come near those in the UAE, tyre Type C might be a perfectly fine tyre, but this is not the case in the UAE. Although the Type C tyre is not permitted in the UAE market, some may still ends up in the shops. There can be tyres available for sale that are not fit for the local market requirements, such as different climate conditions, or wrong car specifications. This is due to import from parallel markets, which can pose a safety risk.

When buying a tyre, checking the temperature code is therefore a must. It is a simple trick. “The code is engraved on the tyre and can be A, B, or C. C is strictly prohibited in the UAE, while A is most suited and B is acceptable.”

Read the tyreprint

Engravings are important information to check when buying a tyre, Rami continues. Other than the temperature, the information engraved in the tyre tells the customer about the size, speed and the load index, which are car-model specific, so this should adhere to the standards of the particular vehicle.

"We always recommend to respect the specification of the vehicle manufacturer, if not possible then you go higher in speed and load, but never lower. If the numbers on the tyre are higher, this means that a tyre will be able to carry a heavier load or handle a faster speed,” says Rami.

Equally important is the tread wear of a tyre. The tyre tread is the pattern in the rubber formed by the grooves all around the tyre surface. This tread wears off and reduces in depth as the tyres come into contact with the road. It is a natural process that comes along the kilometres driven in the vehicle.

Whereas a new tyre usually has a depth of 8mm, the minimum legal requirement for a tread in motor cars in the UAE is 1.6mm, and motorists are recommended to change a tyre when its tread is 3mm.

A handy tool to determine whether the tyre tread is up to the standard is by observing the tiny piece of rubber that sticks out in between the grooves. “When the tyre tread is at the same level as this tread indicator, it means that the tread has worn out and the tyre must be replaced,” explains Rami.

As straightforward as this may seem, according to the Iranian tyre dealer, it is not. “There are some people in this market who know how to engrave a tyre. They can engrave a date, and even the tyre tread. They can imitate the tread in order to adapt the alignment.”

Suddenly, the search for a safe tyre looks more challenging. Can these tyre dealers really fake essential tyre features and therewith jeopardise safety on the road? “I highly doubt it,” says Rami.

According to him, most tyres are not made in such a way that a tread could be engraved, as there is other material under the surface. Only when the tyre reads ‘regroovable it is possible, which is the case in many truck tyres. And in that case, it is permitted, he explains.

Avoid used tyres

The best way to guarantee that the tread wear is genuine is simple: never buy a used tyre, says Rami. In 2012, the sale of used tyres was banned in the UAE. “It is easy to recognise a used tyre. The tread-wear has decreased, the tyre is damaged or dirty, and in most dealers the used tyres are wrapped in plastic. The dealers do not hide them either; they will tell you which ones are used and which ones are new.”

A common misconception is that the ban on the sale of used tyres includes the sale of old tyres, but this is not true, continues Rami to explain. “An untouched tyre manufactured two years ago is safer than a used tyre manufactured this year.”

Reason for this is that the tyre easily gets damaged when the dealer removes it from the vehicle, says Rami. A removed tyre in one of the shops demonstrates what he means; from the inside the rubber has crumbled off and gathered like the crumbles of a flaky cake.

While a used tyre comes with many safety hazards, an unused tyre can easily be stored for a couple of years. “In the UAE, a tyre may be sold two years after its manufacturing date, which is engraved in the tyre,” says Rami.

The dealer

Further, tyre safety depends on the services of the tyre dealer. “A good tyre dealer follows the protocol regarding tyre storage, tyre fitting, tyre repair and tyre alignment. A tyre can be of great quality, but if these services are not provided up to the standards, it can affect the tyre performance,” Rami says.

“In a storage place, there should be no oil, dust or chemicals on the floor. It should be shaded and ventilated and the tyres should not be piled up too high. Storage in racks is the best option. You can observe these standards as you enter a shop.”

Further, every dealer, distributer and manufacturer should be able to present a Gulf Standardisation Organisation (GSO) conformity certification, which implies that it has been approved according to the Gulf regulations.

The Iranian dealer has been around for 20 years, and says that there are maybe 10 out of every 100 dealers that do not operate through the proper channels. “They operate through parallel channels. Most of them sell exactly the same products, but some of them sell products that do not adhere to the norms.

“They cater to the customer with a smaller budget,” he adds. “Not everybody is able to afford a good quality tyre. As a result, these people search for the cheaper options, which they can find on this market.”

In order to be sure of the purchase of a good tyre, customers should look for premium brands, he thinks.

However, that spotting the brand name is not enough becomes clear as we enter a random shop on the side of the road. The used tyres that catch our attention are of several premium brands, realises Rami. There is still a lot of work to be done to secure the market.

6 perfect spots to watch Dubai's 'sunrise at midnight' NYE fireworks

2013-12-26T03:12:00.000-08:00

From special RTA water buses to midnight picnics on the beach, here are the top places to catch the dazzling display in the night sky on December 31

As Dubai gears up for one of the biggest nights of the year, several residents are scrambling to locate the perfect vantage point to watch the stunning vista as the emirate sets a new Guinness World Record with a fireworks and pyrotechnic spectacle on New Year’s Eve.

Organisers of Dubai World Record 2014 have confirmed a six-minute extravaganza that will stretch across 100km of shoreline, including The Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands, with 400,000 fireworks being set off from 400 locations. Must read: Your guide to watch Dubai's world record NYE fireworks across 100km of shoreline.

Adding to this master effort will be a technological marvel that will create a ‘sunrise’ at midnight, with a flying falcon taking off into the horizon as the world’s largest pyrotechnic flag in the sky will come to life, stretching across 29,250 square meters.

Meanwhile, further down the road will see the imposing Burj Khalifa bring its own fireworks display to life at the stroke of midnight, with vantage areas peppered across downtown to watch the world’s tallest building light up in a majestic sparkfest.

With residents spoilt for choice this historical December 31 evening, Emirates 24|7 finds for you the best seats in the city to catch these stunning vistas as they explode across the night sky.

Marine ride

By far the best seat in the house, the Roads and Transport Authority are offering people the chance to watch the fireworks being set off from The Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab from its ‘celebration point’ in the waters off the coast of Dubai.

For just Dh75, a special round trip aboard the RTA water bus will start from Dubai Marina Mall Water Transport Station before it sets sail from the Marinal Canal to the coastal waters of Dubai.

The water bus will stop in front of The Palm Jumeirah for 20 minutes at a special ‘celebration point’ around midnight from where those on board will be able to catch the fireworks display across the four major landmarks of the emirate.

Tickets are on sale with the RTA at the Al Ghubaiba, Al Seef and the Marina Mall water stations. For in-depth information on the water-view, read: One way to enjoy fireworks at Palm, Burj Khalifa & Burj Al Arab on NYE all at once.

Party on The Palm

A seat for a gig at any of The Palm Jumeirah gala events and parties will be the hottest ticket of the night, with all the major hotels on the manmade island, including Atlantis The Palm, the Anantara, the Sofitel, the Kempinski, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and the Rixos, are hosting special gala events and parties that will include a ringside seat to the world record attempt.

The biggest gig on The Palm, of course, remains Sandance NYE on Nasimi Beach, which is expected to host over 17,000 people on the night.

While VIP tickets and tables have already sold out, the regular Dh450 tickets are still up for grabs before those too may run out.

Those attending Sandance beware though, as the only way to attend the gig would be on a RTA bus that will depart from the American University of Dubai from 5pm onwards on December 31.

Due to the access restrictions on The Palm on the day, hotels are liaising with guests to ensure they have the entry pass or access to private shuttles to make it to the venues.

House party

While several residents on The Palm Jumeirah have vented their frustration at the entry restrictions imposed on the island due to the NYE fireworks display, organisers of Dubai World Record 2014 have reiterated that each household will be given event passes to shuttle friends and family.

Residents can use their passes to bring in their guests, providing they follow the permitted access timetable.

From 8am to 9pm, access to event pass holders in their personal vehicles and passengers in taxis holding event pass.

From 9pm to 10.30pm, access to passengers in taxis holding event pass only.

Between 10.30pm and 1am access will be stopped for the purpose of safety and security. However, provisions will be made only for emergency situations.

As parking space on the Fronds is limited, residents are advised to limit the number of guest vehicles to a maximum of five vehicles per villa. Each vehicle will have a car pass.

Walking around The Palm Jumeirah will be restricted from 10.30pm onwards to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the show.

However, even with the restrictions in place, a spot on The Palm this NYE will still be a coveted spot to catch the fireworks.

Beach soiree

Forget the parties and the galas if your idea of fun is a night on beach with friends and family, while the world erupts in celebrations around you.

The Burj Al Arab and the Kite Beach will serve as great vantage points to hunker down earlier in the evening for a picnic dinner before the night erupts in a dazzling array of fireworks at the stroke of midnight.

If a party is still the order of the hour, then almost all the beachside hotels along Jumeirah and Al Sufuoh Road are hosting special parties and gigs that will offer you a similar vista with all the frills of a celebratory NYE.

Downtown affair

While the main focus remains on the world record attempt, the other spectacular display remains the traditional Burj Khalifa fireworks by Emaar, which returns this NYE after the magnificent show on November 27, when Dubai won the Expo 2020 bid.

The ever efficient Emaar has uploaded a map on its Downtown Dubai website, which marks the exact locations where you will be able to witness the Burj Khalifa fireworks.

There are also special areas marked for those planning to visit with families and small children to ensure their safety amidst the crowds on the night.

Comfort of your couch

If the chaos that is bound to erupt on NYE is too much for you to handle, then the best option available is the comfort of your own couch.

A quiet night in with close family and friends may just prove to be the hottest ticket of the house.

All you need to do is tune into Dubai One on the night, which will be airing the fireworks display live on TV and you will be set for a Happy New Year indeed.

Your guide to watch Dubai's world record NYE fireworks across 100km of shoreline

2013-12-25T05:43:00.000-08:00

Your guide to watch Dubai's world record NYE fireworks across 100km of shoreline

Fireworks will also erupt on all continents on The World Islands; the largest pyrotechnic flag ever attempted will flash the UAE colours

An extraordinary extravaganza lies in wait for residents who will witness the live spectacle as Dubai puts forth its ambitious plan to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest firework display.

As part of Dubai’s commitment to excellence, the city is coming together to set a phenomenal pyrotechnic record on December 31 that aims to light up the city in an extraordinary show that will showcase a six-minute display choreographed across the whole of The Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands.

Over 200 expert pyro technicians, 400 firing locations and 100 computers networked to control the show down to the millisecond will be in position.

The world record-breaking attempt will cover a distance of approximately 100km of seafront and feature over 400,000 fireworks in a series of dramatic imagery designed exclusively for the event and set to a specially choreographed musical soundtrack.

The breath taking display, which includes a ‘Flying Falcon’, ‘UAE Flag’ and a ‘Sunrise’ scene, will begin shortly before midnight and showcase the city as one of the world’s premier locations for the global community to visit.

Visible from numerous vantage points across Dubai, all hotels on The Palm Jumeirah will be hosting events to celebrate their involvement in the Dubai World Record 2014 attempt.

Programme for the night

Over 400,000 fireworks will be placed along 100kms of seafront to achieve this world record.

Aside from The Palm Jumeirah, fireworks will also be set off from the seven continents on The World Islands in celebration of and an invitation to the global community to come to Dubai during the journey to World Expo 2020.

A Flying Falcon will open the programme, leading the countdown in English and Arabic digits – using the exclusive GrucciSkyEtching technology.

The display features seven 24-inch shells that will rise 600m above the seven World Island Continents, each spreading a canopy over 700m wide.

A UAE flag will be presented at 225m wide x 130m high – using a patented PixelBurst technology that uses embedded computer chips for precision firing. At 29,250 square meters, it will be the largest pyrotechnic flag ever presented.

Grucci has designed a ‘Sunrise’ scene that will awaken the World across nearly 10kms wide.

The fireworks performance will be choreographed to music composed specifically for this event, but inspired by a local song

The performance, which has taken over 5,000 plus man-days to complete the attempt, will last six minutes in total, with over 400 firing locations.

The fireworks specially handcrafted for the programme in the USA, China and Spain.

Traffic management

As revealed earlier, restrictions will apply in terms of traffic movement and access to The Palm Jumeirah on December 31, which will include a pass system to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.

Residents can use their passes to bring in their guests, providing they follow the permitted access timetable.

From 8am to 9pm, access to event pass holders in their personal vehicles and passengers in taxis holding event pass.

From 9pm to 10.30pm, access to passengers in taxis holding event pass only.

Between 10.30pm and 1am access will be stopped for the purpose of safety and security. However, provisions will be made only for emergency situations.

As parking space on the Fronds is limited, residents are advised to limit the number of guest vehicles to a maximum of five vehicles per villa. Each vehicle will have a car pass.

Walking around The Palm Jumeirah will be restricted from 10.30pm onwards to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the show.

Image courtesy www.shutterstock.com

Dubai attempts to stun world with 400,000 NYE fireworks across 100km of shoreline

2013-12-24T04:21:00.000-08:00

Dubai attempts to stun world with 400,000 NYE fireworks across 100km of shoreline

Fireworks will also erupt on all continents on The World Islands; the largest pyrotechnic flag ever attempted will flash the UAE colours

Over 200 expert pyro technicians, 400 firing locations and 100 computers networked to control the show down to the millisecond will be in position.

Visible from numerous vantage points across Dubai, all hotels on The Palm Jumeirah will be hosting events to celebrate their involvement in the Dubai World Record 2014 attempt.

Programme for the night

Over 400,000 fireworks will be placed along 100kms of seafront to achieve this world record.

A Flying Falcon will open the programme, leading the countdown in English and Arabic digits – using the exclusive GrucciSkyEtching technology.

The display features seven 24-inch shells that will rise 600m above the seven World Island Continents, each spreading a canopy over 700m wide.

Grucci has designed a ‘Sunrise’ scene that will awaken the World across nearly 10kms wide.

The fireworks performance will be choreographed to music composed specifically for this event, but inspired by a local song

The performance, which has taken over 5,000 plus man-days to complete the attempt, will last six minutes in total, with over 400 firing locations.

The fireworks specially handcrafted for the programme in the USA, China and Spain.

Traffic management

Residents can use their passes to bring in their guests, providing they follow the permitted access timetable.

From 8am to 9pm, access to event pass holders in their personal vehicles and passengers in taxis holding event pass.

From 9pm to 10.30pm, access to passengers in taxis holding event pass only.

Between 10.30pm and 1am access will be stopped for the purpose of safety and security. However, provisions will be made only for emergency situations.

As parking space on the Fronds is limited, residents are advised to limit the number of guest vehicles to a maximum of five vehicles per villa. Each vehicle will have a car pass.

Walking around The Palm Jumeirah will be restricted from 10.30pm onwards to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the show.

Image courtesy www.shutterstock.com

Illegal devices used to boost mobile reception

2013-12-24T02:50:00.000-08:00

Dead spots force users to consider 'other' options

The device known as 'repeater' (Supplied)

Banned devices that can enhance mobile coverage are being sold in the UAE, mainly through internet for select customers.

The device known as 'Repeaters' can enhance mobile coverage within a particular apartment or home and costs about Dh2,500 for a unit that boosts GSM signal and Dh5,000-6,000 for 3G signal enhancement.

One agent who was trying to sell the product told this reporter that he could deliver the product at Bank Street in Bur Dubai. "The cost will vary depending on the number of units you require. Anything from Dh2,500 for just GSM to Dh5,000 for 3G connectivity and use of BlackBerry service. However, we are not responsible for any penalties by building owners or etisalat or du," the agent warned.

The installation involves fixing two antennas, one inside the apartment and one outside.

Repeaters captures and boosts a weak mobile signal through an antenna and amplifier and boosts coverage for areas up to 800 square metres, an online advertisement claims.

However according to Aurad, another exporter of Repeaters, the sale of the device within the UAE is banned.

“I have been told that it is banned by both the TRA and the telecom operators. I mainly sell the products to customers in Africa and other Middle Eastern countries,” he said.

According to him there are several cases of mobile users of both operators facing difficulty in obtaining connectivity inside certain buildings and in parking areas.

“Mobile signals are hardly available in some heavily concrete buildings. In Reem Tower in Makhtoum street, which is just behind the etisalat building I know people who have to come out of the building to make calls. There are many such cases across the Dubai and other emirates,” he said.

Many residents in Tecom in Dubai have repeatedly complained to etisalat about no connectivity within the buildings. “We moved in to Tecom in March 2011. I was not able to get connectivity even in the balcony. Finally after several complaints Etisaalt did something and I am now able to get some signal, in some select locations within my apartment,” said Sangeeta T.

Many residents in the area say they were forced to change their operator to Du due to etisalat’s lack of connectivity.

“Du surprisingly has increased its mobile coverage, form being terrible to much much better during the last year or so,” says Santosh Kumar, a marketing professional. As part of my work I visit many areas and buildings across Dubai, meeting many clients and Du’s coverage ahs significantly improved. They still have issues in some parts especially in parking lots. But it is negligible,” he added.

An etisalat spokesperson yesterday told 'Emirates24|7' that except Tecom where du has exclusive coverage rights it has had no major complaints from other areas in the UAE.

“Tecom issue has to be addressed to the TRA. When we do receive complaints from other areas we do send our technical team and try and boost the signal.” The official also said that in special cases special antennas are placed on top of specific buildings located in a dense area. “We take permission from the owner of the building and even pay him charges for electricity usage in such cases,” the official said,

Dh37m ‘Royal Fantasy’ bra on display in Dubai Mall: Here’s how to buy it for Dh1,000

2013-12-18T04:04:00.000-08:00

Victoria’s Secret garment displayed at Dubai Mall is studded with 4,200 precious jewels

A Dh37 million ($10m) bounty for a bra sounds, well, a bit much. But not lingerie maker Victoria’s Secret, who unveiled the ‘Royal Fantasy’ bra at Dubai Mall this week.
The garment is studded with more than 4,200 precious gems from around the world, all set in 18-carat gold by hand and has been designed by Swiss-based jeweller Mouawad.
The piece comes with complementary pink briefs and a gold belt, in case you were wondering.
Of course, a price-tag of Dh37 million, effectively, rules out 99 per cent of the population ever giving a serious consideration to buying it.
But wait, there’s another way to buy the garment – a Victoria’s Secret retail replica of the famous innerwear is available for about Dh1,000 ($295), but it’s embellished with rhinestones, not rubies.
Yes, even Dh1,000 sounds a lot for innerwear, but let’s tell you that the company has produced only 1,000 such replicas, so stocks are limited.
Back to the original piece, it comes complete with diamonds and sapphires, while the showstopper is the 52-carat pear-shaped ruby in the centre.
Unveiled globally last month by South African model Candice Swanepoel at the Victoria’s Secret fashion show in New York, supermodel Adriana Lima jetted down to Dubai to showcase the garment here.
Lima, who has been a model for Victoria's Secret since 2000, has walked the ramp for the lingerie maker five times in the past, most notably when she strutted down the catwalk two months after giving birth.
Victoria’s Secret is selling the one of a kind piece if anyone is looking for unique Christmas gift ideas.