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WITH Y’S ‘OMAN’S BEST MUM’ COMPETITION! The best of Bollywood
OUR TOP LOOKS FROM THE 64TH FILMFARE AWARDS
News: WOMEN NOW MAKE UP HALF OF 10 OMAN’S PUBLIC SECTOR STAFF
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DESTINATION: Sharqiyah Sands TASTE TEST: Manhattan Fish Market
APR 11 - 17 2019 / ISSUE 564 • WEEKLY
YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK
Out of
REACH
PLUS!
JUST HOW ACCESSIBLE IS LIFE IN THE SULTANATE FOR THOSE WHO FACE PHYSICAL OR COGNITIVE CHALLENGES? AS GLOBAL ATTITUDES SHIFT AWAY FROM THE CONCEPT OF ‘DISABLED’ TO ‘DEFINITELY ABLE’, IS OMAN LAGGING BEHIND WHEN IT COMES TO SERVICES AND SUPPORT FOR THIS OFTEN-MARGINALIZED COMMUNITY? Y INVESTIGATES
YUMMY OMAN: WHY OMANI HONEY IS LIQUIDNOVEMBER GOLD24 / ISSUE 258 01
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FIRST DRIVE: THE ALL-NEW TOYOTA RAV4 ADVENTURE
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POSTCARD: VANCOUVER, CANADA
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EDITOR’S
NOTE
Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.
IN THIS ISSUE…
H
ow often do we take for granted those daily tasks that make up our day? And do we ever stop to think what would happen if, all of a sudden, what was once so easy isn’t so simple anymore? What could be routine for you could be a privilege to another. Even as Oman makes leaps and bounds in its efforts to provide equal rights to all, one community remains left behind: those who are differently-abled. With questions being raised as to how the Sultanate is facilitating equality among all people across various communities, we talk to several residents with physical and intellectual challenges in this week’s cover story to learn about some of their daily struggles, whether they’re being addressed or ignored and, more importantly, if equal opportunities are indeed being created for all. Flip to Page 16 to find out what we’ve uncovered as a result of our investigation into accessibility in Oman. Also in this issue, we look back at the success of Y’s annual ‘My Road Safety Pledge’ competition, which saw parents and children come out to take the pledge of a lifetime at Markaz Al Bahja Mall over the weekend. Plus, we’re heading deep into the Sharqiyah Sands in this week’s Destination excursion, satisfying our sweet tooth with the history of Omani honey in our Yummy Oman pages, and bringing you the best of the Bollywood red carpet over in Fashion with our stylish recap of who wore what at the 64th annual Filmfare Awards! Until next week, happy reading!
Team Y EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi
PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi
ADMIN MANAGER Yousef al Harrassi
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan
REPORTER Hassan al Lawati ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst
MANAGER – DIGITAL MEDIA SALES Umair Mehmood
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Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman. APR 11 - 17 / ISSUE 564
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contents APR
Your Oman
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2019
This Week
08 Voice Of Oman Dr. Anuya Phule 10 News Oman Post launches e-payment service 12 News Election preparations for Majlis A’Shura underway
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A British Brunch Bring your appetite to the InterContinental Muscat this Friday for an authentic taste of Britain with their Great British Pub Brunch!
Features 16 Out of reach? As Oman continues its push towards inclusivity across all sectors of society, there’s still one community that’s being overlooked – those who are ‘differently-abled’. Y investigates. 22
Coffee with Y We sit down with Mai Medhat, Co-Founder and CEO of Eventtus at the latest Startup Grind event in Muscat.
28 Mum’s the word Want to show the world 15 Movies that you’ve got ‘Oman’s Stephen King’s Best Mum’? Then join terrifying classic gets us on April 18 at the MG a spine-chilling Showroom Wattayah, update in the new ‘Pet and enter to win Y’s Sematary’. annual Mother’s Day competition! C
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Cars and Adventures 32 Destination Sharqiyah Sands 34 First Drive Toyota RAV4 Adventure 38 Y-Fi The collector’s edition
Health and Beauty 40 Fashion The best of Bollywood
CM
Food and Drink
MY
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44 Yummy Oman Why Omani honey is liquid gold
CMY
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46 Taste Test Manhattan Fish Market
42 Beauty Lip service
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44 NEXT ISSUE... FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / FIRST DRIVE
brity ch and the latest celeve got at w to ts tis ar e th we’ From ate hits of the week, gossip, to your ultim from the pulse of the music your superstar dose Radio Oman 100.9 FM world, with Virgin
The rise of Billie Up-andcoming artist Billie Eilish is now Number 1 on the Billboard 200 Album Charts with her début album ‘When We Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’. It’s also been Billboard’s largest streaming album of the year so far. The unconventional 17-year-old songstress is also the first artist born in the 2000s to have a Number 1 album on the Billboard 200 Charts. We’re keeping our eyes (and ears) on her! Queen B’s hot doc Netflix has just dropped the teaser trailer for its upcoming Beyoncé Coachella documentary called ‘Homecoming’. Last year at the festival, she killed her stage performance on both weekends and sent fans into a frenzy when she reunited with her Destiny’s Child bandmates on-stage. The documentary will air on Netflix on April 17 and will feature Beyoncé’s 2018 Coachella performance in full, plus all the juicy behind-the-scenes footage. So, Queen B fans, we hope you’re ready to re-live it! Family first
After reports of Britney Spears’ father falling ill, the singer announced she was taking a break from music to focus on taking care of her father. Now, it’s been revealed that Britney has checked herself into a mental health treatment centre. A source close to the 06
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pop star said Britney is devastated over the prospect of losing her Dad and that seeing him seriously ill has “shattered” her. The source went on to divulge that after her father’s recent surgery, Britney found herself so full of anxiety that she didn’t know who to turn to or what to do. Baby bump alert!
Kanye West’s infamous ex, model and actress, Amber Rose has just announced that she and partner Alexander Edwards, an executive with Def Jam Records, are expecting their second child. Amber made the announcement to her fans on Instagram, posting a picture of her baby bump during a sonogram appointment. Kings of hip-hop Rumours are flying that rappers Drake and Future may soon be collaborating again on a potential ‘What A Time To Be Alive 2’ album. After Drake brought Future on-stage with him in London during his current ‘Assassination Vacation’ tour, the rappers took to Instagram after the show, posting on their InstaStories that the two were working on new music together. Their original collaboration on the first ‘What A Time To Be Alive’ album in 2015 saw the record hit Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Billy Ray Re-Mix You probably know Billy Ray Cyrus as Miley’s Dad and the singer of one-hit wonder ‘Achy Breaky Heart’, and Lil Nas X from the original version of his hit song ‘Old Town Road’. After it entered the Billboard Country Charts at Number 19 last month, it was quickly removed shortly after. According to Billboard the song ‘didn’t embrace enough country elements in its current version’. So, what did Lil Nas X do? He recruited Billy Ray Cyrus to achieve the country sound that was missing from it and, lo and behold, the remix! A new single for the JoBros! The Jonas Brothers recently surprised fans at a college performance with their new single, ‘Cool’. After reuniting back in February, they released ‘Sucker’, which débuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. With ‘Cool’, the music video is a flashback to the 80s and marks the second song they’ve released in almost six years. It’s got summer vibes, with a cool tempo, and fun vocals – and we love it! New music from Bazzi Rapper Bazzi is back with a new track called ‘Paradise’. This is his first single since teaming up with Camila Cabello on ‘Beautiful’. Since then, he’s been teasing fans all over social media with new music, dropping ‘Caught In The Fire’ first, and now ‘Paradise’ – a track that has an intense passion to it that Bazzi conveys so well in his vocals. Be sure to keep it locked to Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM, and don’t miss your Tea Time with Maya Noise, daily on Chad in the Morning.
THE VOICE OF OMAN
DR. ANUYA PHULE, OF HEALTHY MINDS CLINIC, DISCUSSES THE PERSONAL STRUGGLES OF THOSE WHO ARE DIFFERENTLYABLED AND HOW YOU CAN HELP THEM
correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: How accessible is life in the Sultanate for those who are differently-abled? Could the government be making more effort to ensure inclusivity and equal access within all spheres of life (i.e. jobs, activities, accessibility, etc.)? Tell us your thoughts.
HUNAINA MURAD
T
he trials and struggles of life are something that everyone goes through. However, the fight is different in the case of someone who is differently-abled – and much of it actually stems from the society itself. I have patients – mostly children – who come in absolutely traumatised by harassment and bullying in their schools over their physical or intellectual challenge. And one of the most common cases is the mistreatment of children with autism. It breaks my heart to see this – and much of this can be put down to a lack of knowledge on the condition of the child or adult. Moreover, name-calling and teasing are not the only forms of bullying. Even exclusion of the person can be a very painful process for someone to go through. This is why we need to educate children at a very young age to respect everyone and do everything we can to ensure everyone around us have equal rights. One way you can do this is by portraying a positive character around people, irrespective of whether they’re differently-abled or not. Children absorb what they see, and it’s important to inculcate this level of positivity around them. Always teach them to reach out to those who are secluded and make them feel loved. The word ‘ignore’ and ‘mean’ have way too much prominence in today’s society and that’s something we need to strive to change. At the end of the day, every human is unique in their own way – and it’s up to us to help them recognise that and grow.
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Differently-abled individuals should have easy access, as well as enjoying the same, basic rights as everyone else. Despite this, I believe that this is not fully available. In some developed areas, individuals can access services including ramps, lifts etc. In some areas including recreational parks, wadis, mosques etc; facilities are unavailable. I believe the government should be making more effort in the educational sector, which will ultimately open the doors for jobs. In addition, the implementation of a specific quota system (maybe around 2 per cent) for job selection, keeping merit as the top priority, should be dedicated towards differently-able people. This would ensure that they are given equal rights, and inclusivity is well-maintained.
Mwasalat Buses, designated areas have been provided offering both comfort and accessibility; 3) On employment, we can observe that many differently-abled people have been offered jobs in cashiering and customer service. Lastly, there has been great support from the private sector in supporting non-government organisations catering to the access requirements of differently-abled people. I know there is much room for growth and development for this sector of the society but I commend Oman for making it a priority.
CHAKRABORTY PINKY
While people with disabilities battle many challenges with regard to people’s attitudes, acceptance and inclusion, the lack of access to good quality education and employment keep many from being financially independent. Additionally, it is important for service providers and organisations to recognise that there can be no full enjoyment and exercise of rights so long as the voices of persons with disabilities are not heard—particularly on the issues that concern them. However, unless persons with disabilities are given the tools through which they are able to exercise their rights (e.g. accessible, appropriate, essential services) they will remain a marginalised group dependent on the goodwill and benevolence of society.
MICHAEL RAMIN
I firmly believe that the government of Oman has done a great job in making life accessible to those differently-abled in most aspects of their lives. Examples of these are: 1) all building constructions are strictly required to have access ramps; 2) In transportation, specifically
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NEWS WOMEN MAKE UP HALF
O
OF PUBLIC SECTOR STAFF
mani women form 50 per cent of the workforce in the public sector, the Ministry of Social Development says. As reported by the ‘Oman Observer’, female public sector workers occupy half the positions, a ministry official confirmed. Most of these posts were in the education and health sectors. A ministry official said many women were employed at senior advisory levels and highly-graded positions. Five female lawyers have been appointed to the legislative court. The ministry is also adopting a Social Action Strategy to help in providing more opportunities for women in the workplace. Ministry signs medical studies pact with Kiwi uni The Ministry of Higher Education, represented by the Sultanate’s Consulate General in Australia, has signed an academic cooperation pact in medical specialties with Otago University, New Zealand. The agreement was signed by HE Dr. Hamood
bin Amur al Wardi, the Sultanate’s Consul General in Australia, and Prof. Harlene Hayne, Vice-Chancellor of Otago University. In statement, Dr. Al Wardi, said: “The agreement signed between the Sultanate of Oman with Otago University is the first of its kind with New Zealand universities. The agreement will enable students to study a number of medical specialties on a direct admission system.”
HM CONGRATULATES COMOROS
LEADER ON RE-ELECTION
OMAN POST LAUNCHES
E-PAYMENT SERVICE
O
man Post is going digital in a move to improve its service to its customers, ‘Muscat Daily’ reports. It’s revamping its payment systems as part of a strategy to keep pace with the global digital revolution. A new electronic payment platform is part of a move to serve customers who are becoming more adept with shopping and paying for things online. Abdulmalik Albalushi, Oman
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is Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of greetings to President Othman Ghazali of the Union of the Comoros, on his re-election as president. In his message, His Majesty expressed his sincere greetings along with his best wishes of success to President Ghazali to continue leading the brotherly people of the Comoros towards further aspirations, wishing the existing good relations between the two countries further progress and growth.
Post CEO, said: “According to a recent study, the volume of digital payments made in the world will reach $726bn USD in 2020. “eCommerce is the future and we’re responding to the needs of our customers by activating the innovative electronic payment system offered by Thawani Technologies.” For more information about the app please visit the website at www.Thawani.om.
GALLERY
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S PRODUCTION OF ‘BAZZAR’ ‘WOW’ED AUDIENCES AT THE OMAN CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE AND Y WAS THERE TO CATCH ALL THE ACTION ON-STAGE AND BEHIND THE SCENES. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI
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ELECTION PREPARATIONS GET UNDERWAY
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reparations for the ninth term election of members for Majlis A’Shura’s are underway, the ONA reports. February 21 was the deadline for submitting the e-applications. The Ministry of Interior announced the start of registration in the electoral register for citizens who are entitled to vote. The Shura march in the Sultanate has been marked by several stages of hard work, beginning with the second decade of the Blessed Renaissance led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, with the establishment of the State Consultative Council in 1981 and the establishment of Majlis A’Shura in 1991. The Omani Shura march has witnessed successive and continuous developments over the past years. Its institutional system has been operating in two chambers: Appointed State Council and the elected Majlis A’Shura together under the umbrella of the Council of Oman, each enjoying legal character and financial and administrative independence.
NO U-TURN ON FEES, SAYS TOP INDIAN SCHOOL
T
he Indian School Wadi Kabir (ISWK) principal has said that it’s sticking to its decision of increasing the fee from this year, ‘Muscat Daily’ reports. Parents say the school has hiked fees over the past two years, which they claim is unjustifiable. Dr. D N Rao, Principal, ISWK said: “We met the parents and have justified our reasons for the hike. The management has decided not to retract from the revised fee structure.” Parents of more than 500 students of ISWK gathered to meet the principal and management authorities on Saturday to discuss the possible reasons and solutions to the fee hike but the meeting apparently ended in a stalemate. Earlier last week, parents had submitted a petition to the principal complaining about the increase. The Board of Directors of Indian schools in Oman was scheduled to meet parents on Sunday to discuss the matter further.
EDITOR’S NOTE: CORRECTION Y Magazine would like to issue a statement of retraction to a news item published on March 21 in Issue 562 which incorrectly attributed a quote from Oman Air CEO Abdulaziz Al Raisi within an unrelated news report from the ROP on arrests for drifting driving stunts. The oversight occurred as a result of a design error in which text for the unrelated news item was reflowed over a template which still contained a news item from Issue 560, published March 7, on Oman Air’s support of the recent Ironman Triathlon which took place in Muscat, within which Oman Air CEO Abdulaziz Al Raisi was rightfully quoted. Y Magazine regrets this error and any impact or confusion it may have caused to our readers and to Oman Air. 012
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GALLERY
DIGNITARIES WERE ONHAND TO INAUGURATE THE OPENING OF THE 2019 OMAN REAL ESTATE EXPO AND THE BIG SHOW AT OCEC
SPRING CHARITY BALL AT AL BUSTAN PALACE, A RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL 26th April 2019, 7.00pm onwards Join us for an entertaining event for a significant cause, and give back to the environment by helping to protect wildlife and raise awareness. • 4-course set menu • OMR 49 + taxes per person (including beverages) • OMR 4 per ticket will be donated to the Environment Society of Oman Dress Code: Black tie Venue: Majan Ballroom Live entertainment
Book your tickets now: Please call +968 2476 4444
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A BRITISH BRUNCH
THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE British food is some of the heartiest and delicious around, no matter what their European rivals say, and the InterContinental Muscat is offering The Great British Pub Brunch every Friday between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. at their Al Ghazal Pub, which includes roasts, beef Wellington, and beef sausages and mash. With this buffet, do as the Brits do best: ‘keep calm, and carry on’. The open buffet costs RO15 with an additional enhanced beverage package of RO10. The offer is open to those ages 21 and over. For details or to book your table, call (+968) 9137-3243.
APR 12
THE SKILL-BUILDERS Graduates and entrepreneurs of tomorrow can head to TRAINEX, at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. The specialised event aims to guide the Sultanate’s skilled workers of the future on the demands of a globalised world. Communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking are some of the themes covered. The event runs from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. For details, contact the official website at www.trainex.om.
APR 14 - 16
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The Royal Opera House Muscat is staging the world premiere of ‘Al Hamama al Mutawwaqa – The Ring Dove Story’. Based on an evergreen fable ‘Kalila and Dimna’, this charming ballet has an endearing cast of characters: a crow, a flock of doves and their queen, the ring-dove, a rat, a tortoise, and a gazelle. When the doves are caught in a fowler’s net, the ringdove makes a Herculean effort to raise the net in flight. Composed by Herant Minas Keshishian, the ballet is directed by Ahmed Al Sayed and choreographed by Saly Ahmed. Running time is 70 minutes. For tickets and more information log on the ROHM website at www.rohmuscat.org.om.
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MOVIES MOVIES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 2479-1641
just be time to knock it on the head. Actually, he’s really rather good in this despite his being a (mute) supporting role. Perhaps a non-speaking role suits him best. Certainly, his star power knocks everyone else out of the park even for the relatively brief time he’s on-screen, making this very watchable.
The Wind Cast: Miles Anderson, Caitlin Gerard, Julia Goldani Telles
Pet Sematary
No one is ever going to re-create ‘The Exorcist’, no matter how hard they try. This one has straight-to-video pap written all over it, especially as an indie horror thriller with not a single actor that anyone’s ever heard of. We deserve better. So vote with your feet, people, and give this one a miss.
Cast: John Lithgow, Jason Clarke, Amy Seimetz Dr. Louis Creed (Clarke) and his wife Rachel (Seimetz) have moved from the US city of Boston to a new rural retreat in Maine. It’s not long before they stumble on something sinister (like there was any doubt), and find that a murky pond has hidden depths that neither of them had quite anticipated. From there, it’s a battle to confront
We Die Young Cast: David Castaneda, JeanClaude Van Damme, Elijah Rodriguez
Lucas (Rodriguez) is a delivery boy
the dark forces that are surrounding Louis and his family before it’s too late. I must say it’s a great shame the preview trailer has a giant spoiler in it. The point of a clip is to get people to see the movie, not to spoil it for them. Folks, do yourselves a favour and give this a miss. Save your money and stay at home with something on Netflix.
for a local mobster, and it’s fair to say it’s not bread and vegetables in his bicycle basket. But both he and his brother want ‘out’ and end up encountering retired army veteran Daniel (Van Damme) who has no truck with the criminal underworld. Jean-Claude Van Damme is a bit like the movie star version of Mick Jagger. We know he’s still got it (just) but you wonder if it might
Masha and The Bear: The New Adventures Cast: Boris Kutnevich, Kaitlin McCormack
Lizzie is a woman alone working the land in 1800s America. It’s a tough life, and no one would blame her for losing it once in a while. But there’s a demonic force afoot, as well as some strange new neighbours who have moved in next door, or rather, in the next cabin. I wish movie-goers in Oman could be spared this kind of pseudo-psychological horror-thriller clap- trap that revisits time and again the theme of a decent person being demonised.
!
N WI
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION
‘Pet Sematary’ author Stephen King also wrote which 1986 novel starring a killer clown? LAST WEEK’S WINNER Praveen Kumar
Masha is a little girl who has made friends with a kindly bear who keeps her from harm. Bear is a former circus performer who is now enjoying a peaceful retirement. But meeting Misha brings out his paternal side, and the unlikely duo end up encountering a whole host of colourful and crazy adventures. In this, the delightful Russian cartoon TV series is transposed to the big screen for younger viewers. It’s heart-warming, happy-making fun with plenty of mischief-making action to keep younger viewers enthralled. And how refreshing to have a cartoon character that isn’t trying to foist their version of ‘family values’ on us. Take your youngest kids, and enjoy.
WIN FREE MOVIE TICKETS! Read our movie section and answer the question to stand a chance to win two tickets to watch movies of your choice! Send your answers to info@y-oman.com, along with your contact information. Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher.
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OUT OF REACH?
Discrimination against people with physical or mental difficulties is rife in the GCC. Facing blatant exclusion, as well as intimidation and prejudice, is par for the course for many. Team Y investigates how Oman is responding to the needs of differently-abled people, and learns some of the daily challenges they face
“
A challenge is a notion that’s decided by the society. You decide what your real challenges are and who you want to be”. Zainab al Barwani, a 26-year-old engineering graduate from one of the top colleges in Oman, voices these words loudly, and with the intention of being heard. Her intentions are clear: to bring down the various stigmas faced by those challenged both physically and intellectually in a land that she believes requires a “thorough understanding of the troubles and cries of those differently-abled” in the Sultanate. It’s a liberty she didn’t quite receive as she grew up – often being bullied in school by friends and a handful of extended family members for being restricted in her movement. Diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – an incurable condition that damages and weakens muscles over time – at the age of seven, wheelchair-user Zainab says that she was harassed by her friends and traduced by her relatives. “While childhood is a place that most kids cherish, it was a part of my life I would like to forget,” says Zainab, who attended one of the top government schools in the country. “Because of this, I was incredibly shy as a child. I felt that I was constantly being watched. “Kids in my class would sometimes pester me about my legs because of their ignorance of the topic. After all, they too were kids with no knowledge of what I was undergoing. “In truth, even I didn’t know the full extent of what condition I had. All I knew was that I was differently-abled and that I would need to be confined to my best friend: my wheelchair. “But what they didn’t realise is that every word stung me and every time I was looked down upon by my teachers, I would curse myself from the inside.” All of this, she says, changed when she met her fiancé, who has since joined her in her journey to enlighten the nation about breaking social and personal stigmas faced by those differentlyabled. Today, they visit schools and colleges to conduct talks and increase awareness on the various kinds of challenges people face – and how it must be addressed in a manner that allows the person
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Firstly, some of them are still coming to terms with their own physical and mental struggles, and then there are the social taboos that are associated with a few of these conditions
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to grow with the same self-confidence as any more significant challenges that require constant other individual. medical attention. This is elaborated on by Salma Another significant point raised by the Naimi, a visiting counsellor working report is of the higher prevalence of such with a private hospital in the Sultanate. cases in developing countries, and how this She says: “Talking about something as can give rise to adverse socio-economic serious as the struggles of a and social issues that affect the differently-abled person is a mental and physical well-being of very complex process. the individual; such as in the case Haunted by the “Firstly, some of them are of Zainab. startled eyes of still coming to terms with This is currently under the their own physical and mental scanner here in Oman as the people, labelled struggles, and then there are National Centre for Statistics and ‘different’ and, the social taboos that are Information (NCSI) reveals in its associated with a few of these report that 34,861 Omanis had in some cases, conditions.” registered as differently-abled unseen; many So, the right thing to do among several other expats, initially, she says, is to pinpoint children in Oman thereby raising the final count to those classified as differentlymore than 60,000. are seen as a abled. According to Salma, this raises “In short, anyone who is burden, and their several concerns as she believes undergoing a permanent – or that the Sultanate –like most GCC own families, in likely to be permanent – form countries – is not “tackling its of psychiatric, intellectual, traditional mindsets effectively” many cases, give cognitive, neurological, nor taking strides to implement a up on them and sensory or physical change. impairment or a group of It’s a point that Zainab those impairments classifies as a frequently reveals in her speeches, differently-abled person,” she says. but is also one many experience daily. As per statistics revealed by the Take for instance, Ali al Mahrooqi*, World Bank in 2017, a total of one a salesman working in an automotive billion people – or 15 per cent – of the showroom with a leading company in the world’s population experience some capital, who, like Zainab, is confined to a form of challenge, of which anywhere between wheelchair. He says (in an amused tone): “While 110 million and 190 million people experience most of my friends and colleagues struggle with car sales numbers, my struggle every day starts with finding someone to help me up the stairs. Ali’s company has repeatedly refused his requests for wheelchair access to the sales floor, causing him much discomfort – but he has since found alternative ways to make his life easier. “Now, every day at 8am, the office boy will wait for my wife to drop me to the showroom and he will lift me and the wheelchair up the stairs, or sometimes, I head in from the car ramp in the far end of the showroom. “Honestly, every time I raised this with my management, they’d say that they’ll consider it and that they’ll make arrangements in the annual budget to redo the stairs in front of the showroom. Of course, nothing has ever happened, though. “Another concern is the toilet; it’s just not friendly for me with my wheelchair. So, the only time I use the toilet is when I’m desperate. And it’s a very strenuous process. You cannot even imagine how much effort I must put to lift myself from the wheelchair,” he adds, as his tone quickly changes. In truth, Ali is only one among several that fall victim to poor building planning that offers little to no assistance to those that must use wheelchairs. This has been the case with several restaurants, residential units, offices and other buildings. These do not offer any ramps, lifts or toilets for the differently-abled. Even slippery flooring can cause lasting damage to someone with physical challenges – all of which are against the directives of the Muscat Municipality. This was raised by Zainab and her fiancé in an interview with local media. During the interview, they stressed how buildings in the Sultanate were still flouting the law by finding loopholes and were failing to offer safe access to those that are physically challenged. “A lot of them can’t speak up in their work environment either. I’ve come across a lot of people who say that they’ve been threatened by their management for speaking out [their concerns]. 018
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“It’s something that we are now in talks with the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) and Muscat Municipality for; earning equal rights for everyone in the country. In a statement to Y, one MoM official who wishes to remain anonymous, says: “One cannot be threatened with their job because they demanded something that they deserve. In fact, such companies will be punished. Anyone who faces discrimination at their work environment can reach out to us through our portal or call us on our hotline number.” However, this brings us to our next problem: finding companies that are willing to offer the differently-abled jobs in the first place. Though we’ve come across private organisations that aim to make a difference – like the Al Thiqah and Lulu hypermarkets that offer jobs to the differently-abled from all walks of life – several people are crying foul over how they’re overlooked by companies when hiring staff. Madiha al Ghafri* is one among thousands of people snubbed for jobs in their fields due to their physical challenges. At the age of 32, Madiha – who cannot hear or speak – tells us that her dream of settling down with a stable job and a family seems further away than ever. Her interpreter tells us: “I’ve been looking for a job as an accountant for the past three years – and I’ve applied for over 50 positions online in both private and public companies. But, the only interview I had this year was in January. “I didn’t get the job,” she says. Her attempts to walk in for an interview were also unsuccessful as she was denied jobs in many companies, which she believes, was due to her physical condition. While we cannot validate the reasons behind her job rejections,
we can speak to the MoM official, who goes on to reveal how the ministry has uncovered private companies overlooking the hiring of the differently-abled, despite strict laws and quotas that mandate their hiring. He says: “The laws set by the MoM state that at least two per cent of the total workforce of a private firm should be reserved for the differently-abled. This gives them an opportunity to truly begin their career and flourish for the betterment of their nation.” The fact of the matter is that Oman currently boasts its personal best of 236,729 in local staff in private companies but only a meagre 236 of them – or one per cent of the total Omani workforce – are differently-abled. This number rises to 657 in the government – albeit, it still amounts to less than one per cent of the total workforce in the public sector. “Now, the issue that we’re seeing is that this isn’t being enforced as much as we want it to be. And a part of the reason for that is because a lot of the people that come forward and fit the criteria do fall short in education qualification. “This means that we’re now playing cat-and- mouse games but with no results. We’ll keep pushing the companies to hire and they’ll return to us with reasons as to why they’re not hiring certain people. “We can set quotas for companies to fill and have seminars to educate them but we cannot force them to hire someone,” he says, in a bid to uphold the integrity of companies operating in the country. For Zainab, the lives and upbringings of several differently-abled children have changed from what they were even a decade ago. She exclaims: “Back in the day, I’d see one of my neighbours – a girl with autism – having had to drop out from school because her grandfather thought that it would be better for her to stay at home. “While this not only stops the poor kids from picking up general
The laws set by the MoM state that at least two per cent of the total workforce of a private firm should be reserved for the differently-abled. This gives them an opportunity to truly begin their career and flourish for the betterment of their nation
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Integrated settings provide a lot of benefits for children with disabilities: they become more independent, and obtain developmentally advanced skills, make friendships and start getting a positive self-image
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knowledge, and social and interactive skills; it strips them of their childhood and what they must experience as they grow up.” We also learnt from Salma the most common forms of challenges faced by the children in Oman: autism, Down syndrome (DNS), Dyslexia and different sensory and physical impairments. Sadly, however, this leads to several children being kept away from schools and colleges in a bid to have them closer to the family, and in some cases, to reduce the chances of other factors such as bullying and harassment. And while these may come across as concern from the families, Zainab says: “Having gone through all the pain in my early days, I can still say that education has been my one and true weapon to take on the world. “Without that, I’d be and feel like a nobody,” she says. Her frustration with the system is very evident in her tone. “Education is one of the key factors that can turn any form of physical and mental challenge around and put the world in your favour.” Global Partnership for Education, a global fund dedicated to education, has a strong take on the importance of education for all children: “Denying differently-abled children their right to education has a lifelong impact on learning, achievement and employment opportunities, hence hindering their potential economic, social and human development. “To ensure that all children enjoy their basic human rights without discrimination, inclusion of kids across all spheres should be mainstreamed in all policies and plans. “This applies to education systems, which need to promote inclusion by ensuring the presence, participation and achievement of all children, including children with disabilities”. Al Injaz Private School is one school in the Sultanate that has a section for special needs at Al Ansab. Understanding the growing need for special education services in the country, the school caters for students whose academic and developmental needs cannot be met through mainstream education. Amitha Sharma, the director of the Al Injaz Private School, explains that the educational ethos across the globe today is that of inclusion. She says: “When children with disabilities are schooled with children without disabilities they acquire age-appropriate social skills by watching their classmates or schoolmates without disabilities. “Integrated settings provide a lot of benefits for children with disabilities: they become more independent, and obtain developmentally advanced skills, make friendships and start getting a positive self-image.” One parent of a child with DNS, who wishes to remain anonymous, says: “While the Omani government has done much for differently-abled children, we must do more as a society. “Haunted by the startled eyes of people, labelled ‘different’ and, in some cases, unseen; many children in Oman are seen as a burden, and their own families, in many cases, give up on them.” This is a growing matter of concern as, aside from lack of facilities, bullying, education, and work-related challenges; we learn that several differently-abled people are facing troubled finding a
suitor for marriage. It’s something Aisha al Barwani, a social worker, psychologist, and life-coach is intending to address in her new book, called ‘Together and After’. Her book, which is due for release later this year, focuses on the marital problems faced by youth in the country, and she also touches upon the stories of differently-abled Omanis struggling to find a spouse – some who have been searching for over five years. She tells us: “My heart goes out (to those differently-abled) as their fight is one that is of determination – and it’s not one that stems from their physical challenges alone. “Most marriages happen through familyarranged setups, but we’re now seeing a growing number of youth that are left seeking a spouse for years. I recently interviewed one lady with Multiple Sclerosis whose family has been trying to find a suitable groom for the past five years. “And even though there have been people coming in from various GCC countries – with men who are similarly challenged – she has not been able to find ‘the one’. “When her family had left the premises, she also told us how she was often mistreated, mentally harassed, and blamed for her physical condition – sometimes by her own parents,” exclaims Aisha. “The culture of adding societal pressures on those that are differently-abled have always been a taboo in this part of the world. And even though these taboos are changing quickly,
there’s quite a lot of people who continue to live under terrible conditions. She then urges parents in Oman to connect with therapists or counsellors if they find it hard to support their children as opposed to relying on their instincts in treatments. The Al Wafa Rehabilitation Centre for Disabled Children in Liwa, North Batinah, is one of the newly-opened facilities that is now a pioneer in offering treatments to those in need. Aisha adds: “Things are changing slowly. People are realising the faults in their ways and are making amends – and one good thing is that the government is now involved in the process of educating and creating this revolution. She’s right, as several forts – including the iconic one in Nizwa – and other government organisations have now become wheelchairaccessible. Moreover, with the addition of several clinics focusing on mental health, those differentlyabled can now reach out to professionals for help. This is something that Zainab says will create a positive change within the public. “They say that knowledge is power. With that in mind, I can say that even the smallest of acknowledgements that we receive from the public and the government across various spheres of life will make a change. “Many people think that localised education won’t make a difference – and they tell me that when I go for lectures in schools and colleges. But, the reality is that it is these people who will help spread the word. “And for someone who is fighting a battle stemming from these challenges, only one person is required to change their life. “We don’t need anyone’s pity. What we require is inclusion – we’re not any different to you. Treat us as a part of your circle and include us in your daily lives. “Equality forms the basis of a well-rounded society – and that includes having and creating opportunities and respect for one another, irrespective of whether they’re differently-abled or not.” * Names changed to protect identity
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WITH Y
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n the eyes of the Arab world, Egyptian entrepreneur Mai Medhat is a business titan. From starting off with a skeletal concept that has culminated in her leading one of the largest digital event platform and networking applications in the world – Eventtus – she has come a long way since her early days as a software engineer. In fact, her concept has been so widely accepted that the company has taken control of more than 10,000 events in the span of eight years since its inception. Mai remains one among an exclusive panel of Arab women who have been interviewed live on television alongside former US president Barack Obama and the chairman and CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg. While some entrepreneurs reckoned that she’d hit the peak of her career at the time of the interview in 2016, she continues to prove time and again how she’s on the way to creating an empire. We caught the 30-year-old CEO for a quick interview following her interaction with the visionaries of tomorrow at the Startup Grind Muscat event in the Innovation Factory in the Knowledge Oasis Muscat. The humble and soft-spoken entrepreneur has some insights to share – but it’s the story of her success we all want to know about. She says: “Everything starts with a dream that you have in your head. The key is to then put it
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Businesswoman Mai Medhat made her dream a reality and her strategy for success is one the entrepreneurs of tomorrow can learn from, as Team Y discovers
down on paper and start working towards it so that it materialises.” Mai’s “dream” began when she and her friend Nihal Fares met when studying to become computer engineers at the Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt. The duo went on to procure Master’s degrees in their fields before finally making the shift to work as full-time employees for companies in the region. “I started my career working for companies but I always had the entrepreneurial big in me. I wanted to do something on that with Nihal,” Mai reveals. “So, what I did next was I began networking. There’s no point having the skills and sitting on it, which a lot of the youth tends to do.” Her networking soon took her to the first Startup Weekend in Cairo, where she began meeting people in the industry and garnering experience from them. And several roadblocks later, she – along with Nihal – started their own event software solutions company, Eventtus, in 2011. Eight years down the line, her company, which focuses on digitising events, ticketing and providing one-stop solutions with mobile technology and applications, has become the largest of its kind in the region. During her public interaction, Mai recollects: “Nothing comes easy. In fact, even with Eventtus, we had a lot to prove to the people and ourselves. We would, therefore, attend a lot of startup events to meet people learn more about the latest in technologies.” It was during one such event when Nihal and Mai realised the need for a company such as Eventtus, she explains, as she looks into the optimistic eyes of the budding entrepreneurs that are jotting down valuable notes. She is, without a doubt, a product of hard work and determination. And in our interview, she reveals: “There has been so much
that has gone into Eventtus since its start, and honestly, our greatest success comes from building a platform that addresses an issue. “Don’t open up a company because you want to; do it because the community needs it. That way, you know there’s a market for that. And in our case, bringing a digital outlook into events was key. “It hadn’t been done before, and that’s why we continue to try and innovate; to stay ahead at all times. “Bringing technology into events isn’t just a value-added service anymore. It’s become a necessity. That way, people can make the most out of a great service while procuring much easier routes to attain the same result,” she says. The net worth of Mai’s company isn’t known, but in 2017, Eventtus was ranked as the 48th most innovative tech idea in Forbes’ top 100 startups from the Arab world. Mai’s ideas are unique to the region, and she says it gives her an edge in the market. But, we cannot fail to ask for her thoughts on recent acquisitions of Arab-born tech companies by Western conglomerates. She smiles, as she says: “There’s no right answer to this question. I believe that it relies on what’s the next step or vision of the founders for their company. “There’s still a ceiling on the market in our region. So, unless you have the power, investment, and partners to go beyond this market, it’ll be very tough. “Maybe an acquisition is what’s necessary for the company at that point but it all depends on the business and market they’re in. Talking about transportation solution provider Careem’s recent US$3.1bn (RO 1.2bn) acquisition by US-based company Uber, she says: “I’m very happy for everyone with Careem. I think it gives a huge push to the market. “But, all the startups need to understand that they can see the light at the end of the tunnel some day, and it needn’t always be an acquisition. “An acquisition of Careem now brings great value to the startup ecosystem and also the numbers they’ve brought to the company and its employees of the company is amazing. “Now, you’ll see a wave of new entrepreneurs and investors coming in. Besides, all the employees now know about the company, the scale of operations, and how to run such a great company to compete on a global level,” she explains. “I’m sure you’ll see a lot more startups going down that road; acquiring overseas experience to compete on a much more bigger scale at either local or international markets. On a note to the aspiring entrepreneurs in the room, she then says: “Who knows, maybe the next big idea will come from this room. And it may be so great that an international firm may want to come and take a slice of your brilliant idea.” ■
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BEST IN
SHOW As Cirque du Soleil wraps up its Oman début with an incredible run of its performance of ‘BAZZAR’, we meet the mastermind behind the organising team that made it all happen
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en days; 57 cast and crew; one world-class spectacle under the Big Top. As the curtain came down on one of the most spectacular shows to come to Oman – the iconic Cirque du Soleil’s ‘BAZZAR’ – audiences were left on the edge of their seats at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre as the troupe of artists, acrobats, musicians, and performers ‘wow’-ed the crowds with aerial trapeze, tightrope, teeterboard, and acrobatic bike displays; and, for the first time in Cirque du Soleil’s history, there was a ‘mallakhamb’ presentation – a traditional Indian sport in which aerial yoga and wrestling grips are performed on a vertical, stationary wooden pole. Breathtaking to watch, we’re also marvelling at how it all came together as Cirque du Soleil’s incredible repertoire continues to take them all over the world, redefining how we view the modern circus. Y sat down with Mac S. Far, Chairman and Acting CEO of Alchemy Project – the Dubai-based entertainment company that has brought the magic of Cirque du Soleil to Oman, to learn how the key to success in the highly-competitive world of entertainment is always to keep thinking big. Here is an excerpt from our interview:
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Y: As Alchemy Project celebrates ten years of bringing the world’s top names in entertainment to the Middle East, tell us how it all began. MSF: Every time I get asked this question the whole journey flashes back behind my eyes and puts a smile on my face. The business started over 10 years ago, in the heart of the UAE financial crisis in the summer of 2007 with a very humble beginning, with a series of party and nightlife events under the brand ‘Atelier’. At that time my working capital was approximately US$10 (RO3.8) and the only way up was to perform and succeed. In June 2007, in Dubai, a friend of mine and I started a series of nightlife parties in Mina Salam Hotel at the Madinat Jumeirah Complex called ‘Atelier’, scheduled to be performed every Friday across a three-room ballroom with a capacity of around 1,500 people. I was just 21 at that time. Every Thursday evening, with the help of one or two friends, we’d set up the floor, lay the carpet, position the furniture (which we had bought on credit instalments, thanks to the trust of a few suppliers), and every Saturday morning, we’d dismantle them again – week in, week out. Against all odds, the project became very successful with around 2,000 guests per week, which was the start of our fame within the industry. Alchemy Project , as a brand and as an organisation, came to life in 2009 with the help of my twin brother Sia S. Far, and our current Executive Director Miriam Terchova – both of whom contributed greatly to the growth of the organisation and without whom Alchemy Project would probably not be the same as it is today. The idea and objective behind the brand was to form a more structured entertainment
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company that could cater not only to nightlife and music but also F&B, hospitality and other modes of entertainment. With hard work, perseverance and performance, by 2012, Atelier, under Alchemy Project’s management, became a multi-million dollar brand, with over 20 live concerts, becoming the largest music festival in the region with artists such as 50 Cent, Neyo, Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, Gorillaz, Faithless, Leona Lewis and many more in its line-up. By the start of 2013, and our entrance into family entertainment with Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Dralion’, we set a 98,000 -attendance record with that show, making it the highest record-selling Cirque du Soleil show in a two-week period. Now we operate across four continents and ten countries with yearly growth to two-to-three new markets. We’re currently established and operate in the UAE, Turkey, Brazil, UK, USA, Singapore, Qatar and, recently KSA, Oman, Greece and Egypt. It’s been an unbelievable journey with lots of hardships, challenges, laughter, tears, success and failures – and every second was worth it.
Q A
Y: You have an interesting philosophy behind the name of Alchemy Project, we hear! MSF: Yes, there is a story behind it! Since we (as a team) had a reputation of taking over failed venues and making them successful, or doing events from scratch in remote locations and making them very popular we related this process with the philosophy of alchemists who, in mythologies, were the scientists or individuals who turned worthless metal or objects into gold, through a series of scientific or mystical formulae and chemistry. Using the same philosophy in a modern interpretation, and given the history of our performance, we decided to call our work ‘formula’ or ‘alchemy’ by using our own unique ingredients (our know-how, vision, knowledge and attitude) and turning them into valuable and popular projects. Hence, we called this so-called process a ‘project’ which led to the birth of our name.
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Y: Tell us how the Cirque du Soleil ‘BAZZAR’ project came about and the incredible logistics behind executing a show of this calibre in the market. MSF: ‘BAZZAR’ is their latest creation designed to take the magic of Cirque du Soleil to markets that the company couldn’t normally travel to – whether due to the size of the market or non-availability of venues etc. This show’s objective is to showcase the true essence of Cirque du Soleil, being the talent, the acrobatics, the vibe and music to audiences that may have not seen any Cirque du Soleil shows, or have never felt the true essence of the company in one show. In my opinion, BAZZAR is the millennial product of Cirque du Soleil, designed to further communicate and engage with audience of all ages. The show and its infrastructure are designed to be efficient yet content-full, using the
latest technology in show production to make it move faster and easier from market to market. Alchemy Project started our part of the tour in the UAE, moving to Oman, and will continue on to Qatar, Lebanon, Turkey, Greece and Egypt.
Q A
Y: What makes Alchemy Project unique from other events management agencies in the MENA region? MSF: It’s both an easy and a tough question to answer and, no matter the answer, it may seem subjective to someone. In my view, we have a clinical, creative, and academic approach to the business. We live for and love the work. We work twice as hard as our competitors. We never take an opportunity for granted and we never quit trying to become better.
Q A
Y: As Cirque du Soleil’s ‘BAZZAR’ wraps up here in Muscat, what’s next in line for Alchemy Project? MSF: We’ve always said, ‘BAZZAR’ is the start of Alchemy Project in Oman. We have some nice surprises coming up, which you’ll hear about soon.
Q
Y: As a young CEO you’ve achieved remarkable growth with Alchemy Project and the workload that goes into that success must be incredible! What does your average day look like? MSF: It’s been an unbelievable journey with all of its sweetness and bitterness. My days are full of emails, phone calls, meetings, and conference calls. The business never sleeps. I directly engage myself in creative work (design) and forming the business vision, feeland look, which helps me grasp the magic more in-depth. I also try my best to dedicate time to family and sports, both of which act as a recovery for me. We have a great team that helps me accomplish as much as possible and, surely, most of the credit goes to them.
A
Q A
Y: Did you have a chance to take in the show while it was here in Muscat? If so, what was your favourite part of the experience? MSF: Yes of course! This is one of my most favourite shows of Cirque du Soleil. For me the magic is the music and the dancing combined with the extraordinary talent that creates the intimate feeling inside of the Big Top.
Q A
Y: Alchemy Project currently operates out of nine countries worldwide. Are there any upcoming plans for further global expansion? MSF: We look forward to growing in Central and Eastern European countries, as well as Africa, and to boost our presence in Southeast Asia.
Q A
Y: If you could bring one ultimate artist, performance, concert, or festival to Alchemy Project’s portfolio, what would it be? MSF: Given my day-to-day engagement with A-list titles, shows, and artists, it makes it very hard for me to keep my ‘fan heat’ for a specific artist – but there are people that I, personally, would enjoy working with. In live music, my personal favorite would be working with Adele, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyoncé. In theatre, Broadway and West End top musicals are always important for us.
Q A
Y: What do you love most about the work you do? MSF: The endless possibilities and opportunities that bring out the best in me and keep the fire of my passion burning and igniting my creativity. Of course, adding to it, the fun, exciting, and engaging nature of the industry always helps. ■
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COMPETITION
Presented by
In Association With
e m i t e f i L A f O e g d Ple
I
A car is a lethal weapon, and driving recklessly can cost lives. It’s a message that Oman’s youth are keen to convey for Y’s Road Safety Pledge campaign. Team Y talked to some of those who took part in our event competition at Markaz Al Bahja Mall
n the eyes of the spectators, it’s an art contest with high stakes and prizes to be won. But, for the scores of children that have come prepared for the ‘Y Road Safety Pledge’ campaign, it’s all about sending a message: one about making Oman’s roads safer. Armed with colours and rough ideas, the kids get cracking on what has now become the largest event of its kind involving the Sultanate’s youth. The ‘Y Road Safety Pledge’, which is in its fourth season, is held at the Markaz Al Bahja mall, with much fanfare as bystanders flock the ground floor to witness what’s going on; further complementing the awareness the children intend to create with their messages. Not so long after 7pm, the kids rally to create them – how they do so is up to them. Their imagination is their greatest ally. While some stick to simple and meaningful slogans, others get creative to convey what they want to say about road safety.
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All the kids are working in tandem with the presenting sponsors, Shell Oman; and supporting sponsors, Honda, in sending a strong message to motorists. It becomes clear when we approach Sameera Siddique’s painting. Draped in red to denote the blood of an accident, the nine-year-old’s message shows us the very core of the problem in a grotesque yet thoughtful manner. Written in bold over it are the words: “You have one life. Protect it like it’s the most precious gift you’ve ever received”. She barely bats an eye as we snap images of the card but her mother reveals how her daughter’s message stems from her frustration caused by the death of a friend in a recent motorbike accident in India. Memories, as she reveals later, are all that are left of her friend – and the incident has since changed her perception of reckless driving. She tells us: “Driving is part and parcel of our daily lives. And we can protect ourselves by simply
following the laws – like wearing the seatbelt, driving at the speed limit, and hoping that the people around us will do the same.” These words are mirrored in her card. As time flies, we catch up with others sharing messages of their own. One participant, Aqeedath Khanum even manages to create a threedimensional image of a family holding hands as they cross the road to send a message of how “one mistake can change the lives of a whole family”. She proudly presents the card, and reveals her message on how it’s important to reduce accidents due to speeding by simply following one step during one’s daily commute: start early from home. It’s a point Ali al Barwani, the former CEO of the Oman Road Safety Association (ORSA), is keen to stress. He says: “Many of the people who speed on normal working days are those who are late for work. “Something like that can be changed by simply
leaving a bit earlier. Not only will that allow you to get to work safely and on time, it can also show your company that you care enough to arrive on time daily. “Speeding isn’t the answer to anything,” he says before adding, “In fact, speeding won’t even get you to your destination quicker – it’s a fact that has been proven time and again. You can do great speeds and get stuck in a traffic light or traffic, which will eventually mean you’ll reach your destination at the same time. “Keep that in mind the next time you decide to drive recklessly. The worst thing that can happen is you can put your life and those of others at risk.” He then reveals that all these campaigns are slowly but steadily making an impact as the number of accidents has reduced substantially. In a surprising revelation in January 2019, it was noted that Oman witnessed a 67 per cent reduction in the overall number of accidents since the same period in 2018. Moreover, this translated to a 33 per cent reduction in injuries and a 52 per cent drop in deaths – both outstanding numbers when compared with those of previous years. But Ali al Barwani points out: “Every life counts. And we need to achieve that landmark – zero deaths on the roads of Oman.” The pressure to drive more safely is now on from all sides, as one passerby, Khalid al Zadjali says: “I’m very impressed by the kids’ knowledge on the topic. For them to do something as serious as this, they’re very well aware of what’s going on on the roads. “I consider myself a safe driver but I do have lapses when I ditch safety for speed. I suppose, this is what I need to address in the coming days. “Life is precious. That’s a fact – and I don’t think there’ll be any humility in lying on a hospital bed with one’s life on the line because of a rash decision I made,” he says. This is also something echoed by Sulaiman al Rashdi, the sales manager of Honda (OMASCO). “One mistake,” he says, “is all that can change the course of life itself. It’s time that people realise that it’s not just up to one person to make the roads safer but everyone collectively. “So, let’s all take a stand to show the future of driving tomorrow. One that will have zero deaths – and nothing else.” ■
Here’s how Honda is incorporating new technologies to make your drive safer
In Association With
Apple CarPlay™ Integration Apple CarPlay™* takes the things you want to do with your iPhone® while driving and puts them right on your car’s built-in display. You can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. Apple CarPlay™ is compatible with iOS 7.1 or later and iPhone® 5 or later. Standard on CR-V EX, EX-L and Touring models with Display Audio Touch-Screen. ● Depending on use, the app can share user and vehicle information (e.g. vehicle location, speed and other operating conditions) with the connected iPhone®. See Apple’s privacy policy for details regarding Apple’s use and handling of data uploaded by CarPlay®. Use of CarPlay® is at user’s own risk, and is subject to agreement to the CarPlay® terms of use, which are included as part of the Apple® iOS terms of use. CarPlay® vehicle integration is provided ”as is,” and Honda cannot guarantee CarPlay® operability or functionality now or in the future due to, among other conditions, changes in CarPlay® software/Apple® iOS, service interruptions, or incompatibility or obsolesce of vehicle-integration hardware or software. See dealer for details. Only use CarPlay®when conditions allow you to do so safely.
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Presented by COMPETITION
Y ‘s ‘Oman’s Best Mum’ Competition 2019 When: Thursday, April 18 Where: MG Showroom, Wattayah Timing: 6:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m.
In Association With
d r o w e h t s ’ Mum Calling all children across Oman! Show us just how much you love your mummy this Mother’s Day and enter for a chance to crown her as Oman’s Best Mum! Join us on Thursday, April 18 at the MG Showroom in Wattayah for a chance to win!
M
others are the lifeline of the family – there’s no denying that, and it is high time we give our mums the credit they deserve. That is why Y Magazine has teamed up with PUCK and Morris Garages to show the mums of Oman just how much they’re loved by their children, in a special competition to coincide with Mother’s Day in the GCC, which is celebrated on March 21. 028
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This is the fifth edition of the competition – and following trend, this year’s will be even bigger and better than ever! In 2018, we saw our boxes inundated with hundreds of entries as children across the capital put their feelings down on paper, proving why, in their opinion; their mum was the best in the world. It’s not just the title of Oman’s Best Mum that’s on the line. Thanks to PUCK and Morris Garages, there will be several valuable prizes up for grabs for the top three entries.
COMPETITION RULES: ● The competition is open to children aged 16 and under. ● Cards must be decorated and written by children only. Entries will be disqualified if there is evidence of parental involvement. ● Entries received after the closing date, April 20 will not go forward to the judging stage. ● Children of employees of SABCO Media or associated companies are excluded from taking part. ● The editor’s decision is final. ● Winners will be notified by email or telephone. ● Winners and their mums must be able to attend the prize ceremony in Muscat on a date to be confirmed.
And, if this isn’t motivation enough to show your love, then we don’t know what is – just think of all the treats you could buy your Mum as a thank you for all that she does for you. The first real human interaction a child has once they’re born is with their mother. It’s a bond that’s strong and beyond what words can convey. But, every now and then, we must try and express our love for our beloved mothers. And Team Y is thrilled to bring our loyal readers a competition that will do just that! To enter, you’ll need to be aged 16 or under. Just pick up a special card, which will be slotted into this issue of Y Magazine, and fill it with a heartfelt message of love for your mum. Remember, our judges will be selecting the winners based on content and creativity so don’t be afraid to get artistic. Last year, we received poems, drawings, touching words and simple displays of gratitude, so getting creative is a must. Look out for the A5 card in this issue of Y. Complete your entry and be as creative as you like with words and pictures. Good luck and remember to say it with love!
AND FINALLY: ● The top three entries will also be framed and given back to the participants for them to present to their mothers as a keepsake. ● The competition closes on April 20 and our winners will be awarded their prizes with their mum at a special ceremony.
Safety First – Feel Protected
Reverse Parking Camera The large-screen central display shows real-time road conditions at a glance so you can avoid collisions with ease.
MG RX5
100-0 KM Braking Distance The MG RX5 is 2-metres shorter than the competition.
Great performance isn’t compromised when it comes to safety. Packed with a wide range of passive and active safety measures, the RX5 comes with a 5-star rating in the C-NCAP crash tests and complete peace of mind. 6 Airbags
Smart Brake System The efficient braking system reduces stopping distances by two metres in comparison to key rivals, while standard ESP with traction control, a curving braking control system, and MSR (Motor-Control Slide Retainer) all contribute to a safer journey.
MG GS
Multiple airbags, including full-length curtain airbags, ensure the utmost protection and safety in case of a collision. Ultra-HighStrength Steel Cage The strengthened body structure uses thermal formed steel that’s lightweight without compromising rigidity and structure.
With a 5-star C-NCAP safety rating, the GS comes with both active and passive safety features that ensure protection for passengers, as well as pedestrians in the event of a collision. Get complete peace of mind from the minute you step into the sporty new GS. The strengthened body structure uses high tensile steel that is lightweight without compromising rigidity and structure. From the airbags to the smart brake system, and from the reverse parking camera to the ceramic brakes, each feature emphasises just one thing – your safety. APR 11 - 17 / ISSUE 564
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GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS… Capital Region Azaiba • Amara Dermatology Clinic • Audi Showroom • Bentley Showroom • Costa Coffee • Al Fair • Jaguar Showroom • Jeep Showroom • Al Maha Petrol Station • Mazda Showroom • McDonald’s • Mitsubishi Showroom • Oman Arab Bank • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Peugeot Showroom • Range Rover Showroom • Sayarti Auto Care • Shell Select • Skoda Showroom • The Sultan Center • Volkswagen Showroom • Volvo Showroom • Yamaha Showroom Bawshar • College of Banking and Financial Studies • Dolphin Village • Modern College of Business and Science • Muscat College • Muscat Private Hospital (Emergency and Outpatients) • Oman Medical College CBD • Al Maya Hypermarket • Alizz Islamic Bank • Bahwan Travel Agencies • Bank Sohar • Copper Chimney Restaurant • Costa Coffee • HSBC • Lama Polyclinic • NBO • Oman Arab Bank • Standard Chartered Bank • Woodlands Restaurant Darsait • Indian Social Club • SPAR
• KIMS Oman Hospital • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Bakery • Shell Petrol Station Al Falaj/Rex Road • Al Falaj Hotel • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Golden Oryx Restaurant • Kamat Restaurant • Toshiba Showroom Ghala • National Mineral Water Ghubra • 1947 Restaurant • Al Hayat International Hospital • Al Maya Hypermarket • Bank of Beirut • Costa Coffee • Crêpe Café • GMC Showroom • LuLu Hypermarket • Moka & More • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Park Inn • Porsche Showroom • Al Raffah Hospital • Stationery Hut • The Chedi Muscat Al Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College of Engineering • Markaz Al Bahja Mall • McDonald’s • Omantel • Starcare Hospital Al Khoudh • Al Fair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Pizza Hut Al Khuwair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Bait Al Reem Mall • Caffè Vergnano • Centrepoint (Splash) • Diplomatic Club • Grand Hyatt Muscat • Harley-Davidson Showroom • HSBC • KFC • SPAR • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading
• Landmark Group • McDonald’s • Muscat Bakery • Oman Bowling Center • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Oman United Insurance • Omran • Pizza Hut • Radisson Blu • Shell Petrol Station • TGI Friday’s • The Great Kabab Factory • The Tikka Place • Zahara Travel • Zakher Mall Mabela • Gulf College Oman Mawalah • Chili’s Restaurant • Costa Coffee • Al Makan Café • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • VLCC Wellness MBD • Bank Dhofar • Centrepoint (Splash) • SPAR • NBO • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Pizza Muscat • Shell Petrol Station MGM • Caribou Coffee • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • Just Falafel • Ooredoo • Paul • Tim Hortons Al Mina • Bait Al Baranda • Bait Al Zubair MSQ • Al Fair • Arab Open University • British Council • Costa Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • Hana’s Slimming & Skincare Centre • Kargeen Caffe • KFC • MacKenzies Café & Deli • Mood Café • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Papa John’s Pizza
• Pizza Hut • Saharz Beauty Salon • Starbucks Al Murtafa’a • Bank Muscat • KFC • Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club Muscat International Airport • Caribou Coffee • Majan Lounge • Plaza Premium Lounge Mussanah • Millennium Resort Muttrah • Shell Petrol Station Qantab • Al Bustan Palace • Marina Bandar Al Rowdha • Oman Dive Center • Shangri-La Qurum • Al Araimi Complex • Balance Health & Fitness • Bank Nizwa • BMW showroom • Burger King • Chili’s Restaurant • Crowne Plaza • Finland Eye Center • Fun Zone • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • The Jungle Restaurant • Left Bank • McDonald’s • Mercedes-Benz Showroom • Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant • Nandos • Nissan Showroom • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Qurum Commercial Complex • Ras Al Hamra Club • SABCO Centre • Second Cup • Starbucks • The Sultan Center • Tche Tche Café Rusayl • Jotun Paints • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-2 • Knowledge Oasis
Muscat-3 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat-4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • Waljat College of Applied Sciences Ruwi • Apollo Medical Centre • Kamat Restaurant • KFC • Khimji’s Mega Store – Swarovski Showroom • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Oman Air • Oman UAE Exchange • Oman Trading Establishment • Saravana Bhavan Sarooj • Al Fair • Al Masa Mall • City Cinema • Ayana Spa • Cosmeclic • Emirates Medical Center • McDonald’s • Shell Petrol Station • VLCC Wellness Sawadi • Al Sawadi Beach Resort Seeb • Golden Tulip Hotel • McDonald’s Shatti Al Qurum • Bareeq Al Shatti Complex • Caribou Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • German Eye Centre • The Indus Restaurant • InterContinental Hotel Muscat • Jawharat Al Shatti Complex • Kaya Skin Clinic • Muscat Eye Laser Center • Oasis By The Sea • Second Cup • Starbucks • VLCC Wellness Sifah • Sifawy Boutique Hotel SQU • Diplomatic Club • College of
Economics and Political Science • Students Banking Area • Reception/ Canteen Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Pharmacy • National Hospitality Institute • Pizza Hut • Shell Petrol Station Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best Cars • BLS International Services • Chevrolet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai Showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru Showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom Al Mouj Muscat • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • Al Mouj Muscat Head Office Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University
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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES
D E ST I N AT I O N P o s t c a r d s f r o m
Y- F i
Outdoors
Destination
SHARQIYAH SANDS AFTAB H. KOLA FINDS SPACE AND SOLACE AMID THE EVERFLUCTUATING SANDS OF THE SHARQIYAH DESERT 032
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Cars
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TRAVEL GUIDE
ven before I took up a reporter’s job in Oman, a copy of Wilfred Thesiger’s ‘Desert, Marsh & Mountain’ (1979) was one of my favourite books. And I never imagined that one day I would be experiencing the shifting, constantly-changing nature of the Sharqiyah Sands that are so beautiful in their barren wildness. In Eastern Oman, the Sharqiyah Sands (formerly known as Ramlat al-Wahiba or the Wahiba Sands) offer an exciting adventure. Rolling mighty sand dunes, deep-red to a rich-honey in colour, stretch as far as the eye can see. This is what I witnessed during a desert crossing, organised by Guide Oman. It means one can explore Oman’s wondrous desert with the luxury of a full support crew around you. The silence of the Sharqiyah Sands can be overwhelming while its ever-changing colours are like a tonic for the soul. The Sharqiyah Sands are different from the Rub’ al-Khali (The Empty Quarter), a basin some 650km by 1100km in area containing approximately 400,000 square kilometres of sand. It’s the largest continuous stretch of sand in the world, which also includes Oman. For getting to the desert the ideal place to start is to go to Bidiya, 230km from Muscat. As one ventures into the desert, the stillness of this environment overwhelms you. The eerie sense of being off the beaten track is palpable and empowering, even when just 20km in, within a tourist camp where the possibilities for dune bashing or camel riding are all here for your pleasure. Camping overnight in the middle of the desert makes for an amazing experience. It is a heavenly feeling when the dawn breaks in a flood of molten gold as the shy morning sun bathes the desert at the camp-site.
After a night under the stars, the prospect of going farther begins early in the morning, which is when the adventure starts. As you thread the vast contours of the desert, in the first few hours you are likely to encounter dromedaries padding across the desert several times. The scene is dream-like. The morning sunshine bathes the golden sand, and a mosaic of red-brown cinder and flint provides opportunities for shutterbugs. The adrenalin-fuelled jolt of roaring up and down the rose-coloured dunes of sand, experiencing all the collywobbles of free-fall, are there to be had. Sometimes, some experts and frequent desert-goers perform acrobatics with their vehicles just for fun. They make their vehicles heave and plunge up and down the crests and troughs like a dolphin with hiccups, before being stuck in the sands. On a crossing, one drives hard through the sand, skimming over the harder-packed stretches and roaring through the softer parts. It is team work that counts on trips such as this one. Getting stuck in the sand is actually rather fun, as one is certain in the knowledge that help is on the way, which otherwise wouldn’t be the case. The desert crossing trip, though, looks arduous, despite being armed with the skilled manpower provided by the organisers. The most striking feature of the Sharqiyah Sands is the diversity of colour, and its chameleon-like quality in changing hues according to the time of the day. You can often come across the occasional uzba, a hut and watering hole for camels; and ghaf trees, which, despite being unattractive to look at, can survive at 50ºC in arid regions across Arabia. Such trees provide shade and a nesting habitat for birds while their tiny leaves are eaten by goats and camels. You end up with a bewitching view as the desert skirts the Arabian Sea. It is the Ar Ruways hillock, which juts into the serene Arabian sea. Then, there’s the magical Jeweirah Beach, which is always inundated with seagulls. So there are some wonderful natural spectacles here, and it’s an environment with which Mr. Thesiger himself would not be disappointed.
HOW TO GET THERE From Muscat, take Route 15 and, just after passing Fanja, take Route 23 at the Shell service station. Follow the signs to Bidiyah, where you’ll begin to see the dunes of the Sharqiyah Sands.
Coordinates: N22°06’08.4”; E58°45’33.5”
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CARS ADVENTURES
TOYOTA R AV4 A DV E N T U R E
FIRST DRIVE
T
he brochure to one of the best-selling SUVs of all time reads: “RAV4 – It’s full of life”. And while we’re all for marketing jargons, there’s no more fitting description for this vehicle. Soul, emotion, and a boot full of sentiment surrounds what must be Oman’s most-sold and preferred SUV – and by that definition, the RAV4 is, undoubtedly, full of life. Now in its fifth generation, the all-new entrant has just entered the Sultanate, and it is already the most design-centric SUV we’ve come across in a long time… perhaps the first since the first-generation RAV4 that we’ve seen scamper about the sands. Gone is the signature fascia and in comes a set of parabola LED headlamps with auto-levelling functions, a sharp bumper with cuts and creases that would put a fashion lineup on the red carpet to shame, a large grille to aid air intake, a stylish plastic bumper that flanks the lower portion and a
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Team Y finds the popular SUV has upped the ante with more tech and better design than before – and is as reliable as ever
metal protector underneath to aid in off-roading capabilities. Looking at the RAV4, you realise that the vehicle is new from the ground up. The side profile is quite piercing, with character lines running through the length of the front door and fading in just a hair’s length past the B-pillar, yet it comes with just about enough ground clearance to tackle rocky terrain. Our ‘Adventure’ variant test car also packed specially designed 18-inch alloys with thick 235/55 high profile rubber to aid in on-road comfort, while also aiding in off-road adeptness – the best of both worlds, if you will. The rear follows suit too: you’ll receive a raised and flat-back profile with a power tailgate, edgy LED tail lamps, dual exhausts, and just about enough plastic protection to give RAV4 enough confidence to push the vehicle off the tarmac. Toyota has made a great re-entry into what we’ve always felt is an otherwise drab market – and much of all that enthusiasm boils over into the interior too. The cockpit is functional with all buttons and knobs placed well within the reach of the driver, while the integrated 8-inch infotainment screen offers up everything from pre-loaded maps for navigation, audio controls, and even general information of the car. This also translates to the 7-inch multi-information display that’s cohesively added into the instrument cluster. It’s the perfect mix of digital and analog that we’ve come find in Toyota cars of late – and we love it. Impressively, all the knobs are sturdy and knurled in robust rubber and the buttons feel solid to the touch. Dare we say, the fit and finish of all the panels and trim are as good as, say, a luxury car
from the same region. Space is plentiful for all five passengers. Leg and head room are class-leading, and there’s just about enough leatherette inside our tester to exude a sense of luxe that has been missing from this segment. We particularly fancied the contrasting stitched leather finish on the dashboard, the fauxaluminium trim running around it, and the interior mood lighting. It’s a great place to be – and Toyota owners will feel right at home even with the added sporty touches. The boot is quite sizeable – at 1,064 litres – which is the best in its segment, with further options to split-fold the seats if the need arises. The loading lip itself is short,
D e s t i n at i o n
P o s t c a r d s Fr o m
Y- F i
Gaming
CARS
TOYOTA RAV4 ADVENTURE Specifications: • Engine: 2.5-litre in-line fourcylinder • Transmission: Eight-speed ‘Direct Shift’ automatic • Power: 204hp • Torque: 243Nms • Top Speed: 181kph Four-wheel drive Cruise control 8-inch infotainment screen Electric power steering Digital instrument cluster Dual exhausts 18-inch alloy wheels Leatherette upholstery LED headlamps 1,063-litres boot space Terrain mode selector Panoramic moonroof Drive mode selector
making loading and unloading an easy affair, while the opening itself is wide enough to swallow up even the widest of suitcases. Other standard features include an electronic parking brake with the hold function, a backup camera, front and rear parking sensors, drive-mode selector, six audio speakers, a panoramic moonroof, and a QI wireless charger to juice-up your smartphone. Powering the all-new RAV4 is a 2.5-litre in-line fourcylinder engine that’s now tuned to pump out 204hp and 243Nms of torque. It’s a time-tested engine that’s mated to an eight-speed ‘direct-shift’ automatic , which has received the much-needed power bump it has always required.
The combo, along with the all-wheel drive setup, makes for a very amusing layout – the kind that makes it a fun SUV to manoeuvre around town with no problems. The steering rack is light while the drive mode selector makes it a breeze to operate within the realms of the driver’s demands. Power is put down efficiently, with it breaking past the 100kph mark in about 8.5 seconds. Torque kicks in at about the 3,500rpm mark and bands through to the 5,000rpm mark, giving a decent kick to the passengers inside the cabin. On-road imperfections are all dialed down efficiently, thanks to the high-profile rubber and the well-tuned suspension layout. Body roll is kept to a minimum too, even though the steering is a touch more responsive than what we found on its predecessor. Fuel economy is top-notch as well, however, there’s a hybrid variant – making it the first Hybrid SUV to enter
AS A TOP CONTENDER IN THE OMANI MARKET, THE RAV4 BREAKS INTO AVENUES THAT WE’VE NOT QUITE SEEN A TOYOTA SUV ENTER BEFORE. AND HAVING DRIVEN THE CAR, WE CAN SAFELY SAY THAT IT’S AMONG OUR FAVOURITE SUVS FOR THE YEAR Oman – that serves up 22.2 km/l. The brakes are strong and progressive; much like what we’ve grown to see in Toyotas of late. It’s confidence-inspiring and makes for a very good drive in regular traffic. As a top contender in the Omani market, the RAV4 breaks into avenues that we’ve not quite seen a Toyota SUV enter before. And having driven the car, we can safely say that it’s among our favourite SUVs for the year. The RAV4 will fare in Oman; it’s a given. However, where it wins in is providing the right blend of technology and mechanical prowess to keep its buyer base enthralled – all with no compromises to the brand’s ethos in offering up top quality products served up with a dash of Japanese reliability.
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CARS ADVENTURES
RUGGED OASIS Vancouver’s famous Siwash Rock stands sentinel off the shoreline of the city’s Stanley Park.
1. Go whale-watching for orcas at Horseshoe Bay. 2. Take a ferry day-trip to Vancouver Island. 3. Visit the Butchart Gardens in the provincial capital of Victoria. 4. Take a drive along the famous Sea-to-Sky Highway. 5. Visit the bustling and eclectic Richmond Night Market.
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Destination
Cars
Y- F i
G a m i n g POSTCARDS FROM
Ashlee Starratt recommends
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
L
ong known as Canada’s enclave of hippies, snowboarders and back-to-theland revivalists, the west coast province of British Columbia (B.C.) has always been the nation’s rugged hideaway, impossible to tame. Cradled by the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, its geography is a timeless testament to the strength of nature - and our precarious place among it. Boasting one of the North American continent’s only temperate rainforests, Vancouver Island’s MacMillan Provincial Park, is one of the island’s most popular outdoor tourist treks. It’s here you’ll find some of the world’s oldest and largest Douglas fir trees in its Cathedral Grove - the great stands of giants revered by the region’s First Nations people and part of an ancient ecosystem primordial. It’s a province where nature speaks, and humankind listens as the old ways live on among the new; and where respect for the heritage, culture, and wisdom of its Squamish and Haida First Nations people is upheld. For many, this part of the country encapsulates the ideal of the Canadian frontier on the doorstep of the Great North. But it’s B.C.’s metropolis of Vancouver, a seaport city in the province’s Lower Mainland VANCO region, that’s carved out its niche as the urban epicentre of western Canada. Dubbed U V E R IS LAND ‘Hollywood North’ (due to its popularity as a filming location by its neighbours to the south), G A R D E ’S or ‘Van City’ by the skater/snowboarder set, it’s an urban oasis known as much for its NS arts and culture, nightlife, and foodie scenes as much as its celeb sightings - and, all in proximity to some truly stunning nature. Wander along the cobbles of its historical Gastown - named for the old-fashioned lamps that light the neighbourhood - with its Victorian décor, and snap a selfie in front of the landmark Steam Clock. Or browse through its lively art galleries and hip eateries that offer up some of the best dining for locavores. Or head over to Granville Island, a peninsular shopping district and marina adjacent to Downtown Vancouver and wander along its piers and bustling marina market or take in a show at one of its many theatres and performing arts spaces. Vancouver is an incredibly accessible city with an excellent public transit system that includes an automated SkyTrain that will whizz you from Point A to Point B, wherever you need to go in short order. For those seeking a touch of the outdoors, it’s a city that delivers in spades. Explore the educational aquatic exhibits at the kid-friendly Vancouver Aquarium, wander through the seasonal gardens of the urban Queen Elizabeth Park, or hit the trails with spectacular city views and take a lift-ride up the 1,200-metre Grouse Mountain. Just keep your eyes peeled for Ryan Reynolds!
BUTCH
ART
My favourite place
The city’s iconic Stanley Park is a 405-hectare public park that’s considered the crown jewel of Vancouver. Surrounded by the waters of Vancouver Harbour and English Bay, its history dates back to the 1858 Fraser Canyon Gold Rush and beyond to when the land was used by the region’s indigenous peoples. With over half a million trees – some centuries old – what makes this incredible urban oasis unique is that it wasn’t plotted out by any landscape architects, but rather is the embodiment of a natural integration between forest and urban landscape. Walk or bike the trails along the park’s serene coastal edge where the waters meet the Vancouver Seawall, or visit the polar bear exhibit, its many beaches; and marvel at the gargantuan specimens of Douglas fir, western hemlock and red cedars and Sitka spruce trees that tower over it all.
LEY E S IN S T A N T OT E M P OL
PARK
Highlights Thrill-seekers can head to North Vancouver, on the city’s outskirts, and head to the vertigo-inducing Capilano Suspension Bridge. Originally built in 1889, this 140-metre pedestrian footbridge spans the Capilano River gorge, 70 metres above its rushing waters. Drawing about 800,000 visitors a year it’s one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions. Just don’t look down! You can also spend an afternoon satisfying your curiosity for Canadian heritage at the Museum of Anthropology with its stunning compilation of ancient and contemporary Aboriginal works, or the Vancouver Art Gallery, which showcases the best from western Canada’s regional artists. Finally, take a shopping and foodie excursion to Chinatown – the largest in North America outside of San Francisco. Vancouver has the second-largest Chinese population outside of China, and this cultural enclave is well-worth the visit, with its buzzing dim sum eateries, Asian bakeries, shops, stalls and apothecaries selling everything under the sun. Lowlights While personal safety is quite high in Vancouver, have your wits about you, as in any other big city. While the Downtown core and West End are usually busy and well-populated at all times, be careful around the Lower Eastside where theft and crime are more prevalent.
Souvenirs Carved Haida totems and wooden masks, indigenous soapstone sculptures, maple products, beadwork jewellery and woven dreamcatchers.
Getting there Most major GCC carriers fly to the central Canadian hubs of Montréal or Toronto. From there, take an Air Canada or WestJet flight to Vancouver International Airport.
CAPILA NO SUS PENSIO N BRID GE
Where to stay Budget-friendly Airbnb options abound, and all the world’s major hotel chains can be found in the city. For a unique boutique hotel experience book in at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia located right downtown. APR 11 - 17 / ISSUE 564
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THE TECH IN YOU
D e s t i n at i o n
Cars
Gaming
Y- F I
THE COLLECTOR’S EDITION
Team Y tries out a supercar smartphone, the king of consoles, and a pair of prestige Pink Floyd headphones WHEN SUPERCAR MEETS SMARTPHONE Here’s a smartphone maker that has exclusively partnered a top supercar maker from the UK to build their first-ever limitededition phone. While we’ve always been impressed by the brand OnePlus, the OnePlus 6T McLaren Edition steps things up a notch with a stellar Snapdragon 845 doing all the heavy-lifting alongside a stout 10 gigs of RAM. Then there’s the carbon-fibre back with orange accents, McLaren badging, and our favourite, the warp charging – which earns the phone nearly 50 per cent of its battery juice in under 20 minutes (!) Get it from oneplus.com/mclaren for RO270.
DARK SIDE OF THE MOON SUCCESS STORY Just when we thought that Sony’s PlayStation couldn’t get any more desirable – at least until the new PS5 came into being – they’ve come up with a special edition console to commemorate selling 500 million consoles worldwide since being launched in 1994. The unique device, dubbed the 500 Million Limited Edition PS4 Pro, will max out the internals; meaning you’ll receive a 2TB hard disk for saving your games, top 4K resolution compatible graphic processor (from the stock PS4), and an additional boost for those graphic-intensive games. Sony will also include a 3D technology PlayStation Camera and the like, along with the translucent shell that has the brand name etched in gold. Your best bet to buy this would be from amazon.com but prices range anywhere between RO280 and RO300.
With Pink Floyd’s songs firmly etched in the hearts, minds and playlists of every one born before the ‘Bieber’ era, here’s a little something: headphones that hark back to the times when artists had real talent, with a tribute to the creators of psychedelic rock. The Sennheiser Momentum HD1 comes with Pink Floyd livery – triangles and a rainbow background from the ‘Dark Side Of The Moon’ album – and still packs Sennheiser’s signature aural nuances in the finest details. Buy this from en-us. sennheiser.com for RO115.6.
A TRUE PREDATOR
EDITOR’S PICK
THE PREMISE OF A LAPTOP IS TO BE LIGHT, PORTABLE, AND QUITE HANDY WITH PERFORMING DAILY TASKS. THE ACER PREDATOR 21X TAKES ALL THOSE NOTIONS AND SUPERSIZES THEM – LITERALLY! THE RESULT IS A LIMITED-SPEC LAPTOP THAT COMES PACKING TWO NVIDIA GEFORCE GTX 1080S (THE WORLD’S BEST PORTABLE GRAPHIC CARD), FIVE FANS FOR OPTIMUM COOLING OF THE 7TH GEN INTEL I7 PROCESSOR, 64GB OF RAM, AND NINE HEAT PIPES RUNNING THROUGH THE CHASSIS TO HELP KEEP THE WHOLE, WELL, PREDATOR CALM. THEY ALSO CHUCK IN FOUR SPEAKERS AND TWO SUB-WOOFERS, AND A LARGE 21-INCH CURVED DISPLAY WITH EYEBALL TRACKING INTO THE MIX TO TIP THE SCALES AT A STOUT 8.5KG. THE LAPTOP IS EVERY GAMERS’ DREAM RIG – BUT IT’LL SET YOU BACK RO3,500 FROM ACER.COM.
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Top Titles For April
With April a slow month for new releases, the Y Geek Squad finds three worth shouting about
and dull from the onset, the developers redeem themselves – and the money of their hopeful investors – with a slick gameplay and controls that blend the best of zombie slaying with a touch of ‘Road Rash’ (the iconic game from 1991). The result is a fair game that lets you master vehicles in your quest to regain control of your city from zombies and infected s another slow month with just a handful of new releases animals – which form the ‘freakers’ clan. expected to hit shelves, April Whether you go kamikaze and take down a bunch of zombies or stay silent and is turning out to be quite a take it slow is up to you. But no matter drag, in contrast to the rather fun – if a bit foolish – beginning it promises every what, all hell will break loose when you’re spotted; at which time, you must year. While we might have expected break open your machine gun and pull a developers to turn up on the first and Schwarzenegger. scream “April Fool” in our faces before PLATFORM: PS4 handing out free copies of their muchawaited games, it’s likely we’d be left MORTAL disappointed – if you, like us, are keeping KOMBAT 11 your hopes high. The reasons for this Mortal slump in releases is something worth Kombat pondering – but for everyone else who has been believes in keeping their glasses halfaround full, here’s a list of our top picks from destroying the month. friendships for so long DAYS GONE that we’d A clichéd forgotten zombie it had hit 11 apocalypse titles. This latest story: that’s instalment in the how we’d like to define ‘Days long-running series will bring a handful of graphical alterations to imitate blood Gone’. While and gore more accurately while still the plotline may come across maintaining the sexist outlook that it has always had; albeit, in more detail. It’ll as unimaginative remains a 2.5D fighting game so purists
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can keep their cool for now. However, with little to no improvement from previous titles, we’re a bit surprised that this one is making any waves at all. We’ll look forward to seeing this in the Nintendo Switch. We’d suggest everyone else to stick to the tenth edition in the series. PLATFORMS: PS4, XBOX ONE, NINTENDO SWITCH AND PC DAUNTLESS It’s almost like taking a game gyrating strongly around the tired and worn-out zombie apocalypse genre and passing it through a photocopier of sorts – for that’s what the game Dauntless reminds us of. It fits the bill as a zombie slayer with a handful of different weapons and cities to scourge through for most parts. The game, supposedly, also brings in a bit more versatility with its weapon-crafting mode and advanced AI that judges your level before pitching you zombies. Come on, guys. Where’s the originality? PLATFORM: PS4, XBOX ONE, NINTENDO SWITCH AND PC JULY APR0311 -- 09 17 / ISSUE 564 327
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While all eyes were on the 64th Filmfare Awards 2019 winners’ list for the best in Bollywood cinema, ours were scanning the red carpet for some of the evening’s most dazzling divas and alluring designer looks. And, like a good Bollywood epic – the fashion was big, bold, glitz and glam!
k o o L e h T Get
Photo credit: www.instagram.com/rheakapoor
Sonam Kapoor
eet, igh str look h e h t et the nd to high-e lps you to g e h t he From tarratt S e le h As
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If you haven’t seen her gritty ‘true-to-life’ portrayal of heroic flight attendant Neerja Bhanot in the biographical thriller ‘Neerja’, let us tell you – Sonam Kapoor has some epic acting chops that have skyrocketed her to the top of Bollywood’s ‘It’ List. We love her in this foxy fuchsia mermaid-tail couture gown from Ralph & Russo. Incorporate the season’s most chic shade into your daytime look with this pretty-in-hot-pink pleated skirt from Miss Selfridge for RO19.5.
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Beauty
FASHION
Katrina Kaif
Photo credit: www.instagram.com/tanghavri
HEALTH& BEAUTY
Health
Bolly babe Katrina brought old-world glamour to the red carpet at this year’s Filmfare awards in a delicatelyembroidered seafoam gown from Falguni and Shane Peacock. We can’t wait to see her alongside former beau, the legendary Salman Khan, in the upcoming historical drama ‘Bharat’. Take a page out of her colour palette in this mint-green cuffed chiffon blouse from Dorothy Perkins (RO13) for an ultrafeminine anchor.
Cinch the look: With a
pair of tropical platforms (Chinese Laundry, RO30.7) that will draw the eye down your silhouette, and a delicately-beaded white bag for added contrast (Zara, RO19.9).
Cinch the look:
With a graphic-print tee (H&M, RO6.9) and black and gold studded clutch (Aldo Accessories, RO17.3) that offset your look with an urban edge.
Kajol
Sara Ali Khan Cinch the look: In a
Bollywood icon Kajol kept it sleek and classic on the red carpet in a long-sleeved black gown with subtle crystal detailing, icy shoulder-grazing earrings, and slick high pony-tail. And really, when you’re one of the industry’s most-accoladed actresses, you don’t live by the rules – you break them and set your own. Let your own inner icon shine in this velvety glitter stone embellished dress from Self-Portrait (RO166.1).
Cinch the look: In a pair of sky-high pink sling-back pumps (Nine West, RO34.2) and a set of rose-gold and blue jewel drop earrings (River Island, RO6).
Photo credit: www.instagram.com/saraalikhan95
Photo credit: www.bollywoodlife.com
white lace skirt (H&M, RO13.4) and a gold cuff (Promod, RO5.5) to up the feminine factor.
Bollywood’s hottest newcomer is already earning her stripes, winning ‘Best Début Award (Female)’ for her role in the disaster drama ‘Kedarnath’ at last week’s Filmfare Awards ceremony in Mumbai. Stepping out for the first time on the red carpet in a stunning gold and white lehenga by Abu Jani and Sandeep Kholsa, we can’t wait to see what Ms. Khan has in store next! Get inspired by her embellished ensemble in this sequinned embroidered bolero capelet from Needle & Thread (127.6).
Janhvi Kapoor Cinch the look:
Photo credit: www.instagram.com/ayeshadevitra
Photo credit: ABC News
With some pops of colour from a pair of pink snake-skin sandals (River Island, RO20) and an eye-catching bohemian bag (Dorothy Perkins, RO17.5).
When you’re born into Bollywood royalty, you’d better look the part – and Janhvi Kapoor was on her A-game at this year’s Filmfare Awards in a metallic ecru-coloured gown from Maison Yeya. The daughter of Bollywood icon, the late great Sridevi, Janhvi is slated to star next in a new biopic as Gunjan Saxena – India’s first female combat pilot. Grab inspo for her red carpet look here, in this neutral-toned oneshoulder mini-dress from Goen J. (RO230.7).
APR 11 - 17 / ISSUE 564
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Health
BEAUTY
Fashion
Home
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LIP
SERVICE
HEALTH& BEAUTY
From the products we love to the shades we just can’t live without, we help you pretty up your pout with some of the season’s hottest lip trends
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urse them, smack them, lick them or bite them – our lips undergo the most wear-and-tear of any of our facial facets. Not immune to seasonal affective disorder themselves, things like changes in temperature, dehydration, stress and more can all have a cumulative impact on leaving them dry, cracked or peeling. And, let’s face it – our smile is the first thing we put out there for the world to see so it’s important we keep it lush and bright. Here are some of our favourite trends and products that will help give you some lip. Plumped up Skip the painful pricking needles and post-collagen puffpout. Now, it’s all about going au naturel. Fool ‘em all by opting for a faux-filler in the form of one of the season’s hottest beauty trends – lip plumpers. What they do? These tubes of makeup magic contain a gloss-like solution containing collagen or hyaluronic acid that, when applied, help increase circulation to your lip area – making your pout appear fuller and plumper. Some products also contain reflective enzymes to further boost your pucker – and all are compact, portable, affordable and – the best part – you don’t need to go under the knife! We love: Too Faced Lip Injection. Just three to four swipes of this berry-flavoured plumping gloss will give your lips that instant Kylie Jenner ‘glow-up’. Price: RO8.4. Soft and supple Now that you’re plumped – the next thing is to prep! If the winter weather’s done a doozy on the delicate skin of your lips, a good moisturising regimen will help get them back in lipsmacking shape. And the more natural the product – the better! We love: Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm. These little organic tubes of wonder will leave your lips as smooth as. Plus, its light-weight, non-greasy formula, and tingly peppermint essence ticks all the boxes. At RO1.3 it’s our best budget bargain! 042
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Red alert This season’s hottest lippy look is all about the rich, powdered matte look in sizzling shades of fire-engine red. So, ladies, if you’re ready to go all-out ‘rojo caliente’, then we suggest opting for a feminine fuchsia shade that will have heads turning. We love: MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in Relentlessly Red. It’s moisture-coated powder pigments do double-duty to hydrate and condition lips while giving them the ultimate powdered finish. Price: RO7.1. Candy gloss Who doesn’t love a gorgeous dose of shine on their smile? There’s something so ultimately fresh about a stunning slick of gloss on the lips – and, in some of the season’s most vibrant hues no less! Think subtle metallic sheens, and delicate flushed pinks. We love: Make NARS Multi-Use Gloss in Redemption the quintessential staple in your makeup bag. As its name implies, you can use its soft rose-gold shade on your lips. lids, or cheeks – giving you an overall glittering glow. Price: RO9.2.
Beauty
HEALTH
CODE RED
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he legendary tennis player John McEnroe hasn’t played on the tour for nearly 30 years. Yet it’s not just his incredible skill on the court for which the fiery New Yorker is remembered. Rather, it’s his on-court antics and fierce temper, which earned him the unenviable soubriquet of ‘super-brat’. Losing a point for McEnroe could mean screaming at an umpire: “You can’t be serious!” or scything a cup of soda with his racket, causing its contents to spatter over none other than the King of Sweden. Now I don’t know why McEnroe, now one of the most respected (and well-liked) men in tennis, behaved as he did but maybe he just couldn’t manage his anger and frustration. Most of us, at one time or another, have wrestled with unseemly but seemingly unavoidable displays of temper. It could be that rank indignation you felt when you gently hooted the driver in front for not moving on a green light, only to be greeted with an obscene gesture in response. Or the exasperation you felt when a service for which you were paying good money just didn’t deliver on what was agreed. The fact is, anger can be all-consuming to such an extent that we can boil over into uncontrollable (and uncharacteristic) displays of rage. That’s when our doctors might recommend a course of anger management. According to HelpGuide.org, it’s a form of therapy, and one that isn’t about learning to suppress your anger but rather understanding what’s causing you to feel a particular way and instead expressing it in a healthy fashion without losing control. Dr. Christian Conte, from the VH1 family show ‘Family Therapy’ says: “We all experience emotions and we all certainly at some point express anger in our lives, and anger management is something we could all benefit from. “Anger management is about dealing with the emotions that surround the anger. All of us should have the discipline to handle our anger well.”
Fashion
Home
Family
We all have moments when our anger and frustration spill over. Martina Mason finds out why a course of anger management could be just what we need to keep a lid on it
Dr. Conte’s tips for managing anger include being more flexible in recognising another person’s point of view and learning not to take things too personally. Actually, it appears you can make your point a whole lot better by adopting this strategy. Take politicians, for instance. A photo of Germany’s leader, Chancellor Angela Merkel cutting US President Donald Trump down to size went viral last year. Merkel’s detachedbut-deadly face-off with the president was a masterclass of calm reason, as well as teutonic testiness. And have you noticed that the most formidable people are those who don’t lose their temper? The most effective ‘evil baddies’ in movies never lose control of themselves and therefore stay on top of the situation. Perhaps the ‘Teflon Don’ should take note? British actors like Mark Strong are so good at playing villains who can handle a situation (and everyone else) with such calm, reasoned tones that they make them seem even more menacing. And when did you ever see James Bond actually lose his temper? Of course, McEnroe sportingly sent himself up in the Adam Sandler movie ‘Anger Management’ in which the protagonist was sent on an anger management course. It was a funny film, yes, but it’s a serious issue and not one to be lightly dismissed. An anger management course can be
undertaken in a class or as a one-on-one with someone else. How long it lasts depends on your requirements. A course involves recognising the triggers that cause your anger and learning to manage them. This could involve improving your sleep patterns, learning skills to use in situations likely to prompt anger, and learning ways to calm down. British clinical psychologist Dr. Isabel Clarke says we can control our anger and we have a responsibility to do so. Dr. Clarke says: “Everybody has a physical reaction to anger. Be aware of what your body is telling you and take steps to calm yourself down.” Here’s what you can do: Recognise the danger signals You might feel your heart beat a little faster, and a little shortness of breath. You might even be clenching your fists. If this is gearing you up to let rip, then back down and bow out. Take a deep breath and count to 10 It’s a cliché as old as the hills but it really does give you space to breathe, a little moment to think before you act or speak and consider the consequences of what might happen if you don’t. Seek help from a medical professional If uncontrollable anger is adversely affecting your professional or personal life or both, then it’s time to get help. You can talk to your doctor or seek assistance from a clinic or a health centre that may offer anger management courses. Editor’s Note: Team Y says: “This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of a medical expert if you have any questions regarding a health issue.” (Sources: Sources: HelpGuide.org, Dr. Christian Conte, NHS UK, Dr. Isabel Clarke, The Mayo Clinic) APR 11 - 17 / ISSUE 564
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NECTAR OF OMAN
Omani honey is some of the world’s best and purest. Have you sampled its sweet depths?
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Reviews
Liquid
Gold
The unique and delicious properties of Omani honey have been enjoyed for generations. Swati Basu Das tastes the work of Oman’s mountain bees, and takes home some jars of the stuff for her breakfast table
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atisfying your sweet tooth can be a wicked indulgence but how about giving it a healthy twist? We all know it’s better to spoon honey into our tea rather than sugar but the route to sweet health buzzes in the remote hills of Oman. Here, diligent and dedicated honey-bees and busy bee-keepers produce a sweet relish in the foothills of the Hajjar Mountains. The hilly terrain of Falaj Bani Rabi’ah is one wedge of Al Khaburah, from where the delight of tasting something sweet can be savoured guilt-free. Honey from this part of the world is not only delicious but healthy as well. Khalifah Al Rubaiyi, a bee-keeper and honey farmer, says: “The honey from the bee-hives here is rich, pure and has an intense natural sweetness. We eat it with
bread or take a spoonful to satisfy our tastebuds. It can be consumed daily and it has health benefits, too.” Exported and exhibited beyond our borders, Omani honey is estimated to have more than a million happy and satisfied consumers. The Samar tree that nestles in the mountain bestows the best-quality Samar honey. Harvested by the bees, this darkbrown melt has high medicinal properties and is luscious, as is the subtly-flavoured light brown Sidr honey from the nectar of the Sidr or Jujube tree. Pocket pinch: One kilogramme of honey can cost between RO30 to RO90, depending on quality. Now, give your sweet tooth a treat with this cake, which if tackled successfully, offers up a delectable delight that’s moist in texture and most toothsome with your afternoon tea.
Medovik Cake This rich, eight-layer Russian honey cake will satisfy even the most voracious sweet tooth with its yummy golden-cream filling. Ingredients: For the layers: § 5 cups allpurpose flour/ maida § 1 cup granulated sugar § 3 eggs § 113g / ½ cup unsalted butter § 2 Tbsp honey § 1 ½ tsp baking soda For the filling: § 2 cups milk § 2 eggs § 2 tbsp cornflour § 227g dulce de leche (milk caramel) § 1 Tbsp honey § 113g unsalted butter, softened Method: For the layers: § In a small bowl whisk together the eggs and set aside. § In a saucepan, bring 5cm of water to a simmer. In a heatproof bowl, add sugar, butter and honey and place over the simmering water. Melt it, stirring occasionally using a whisk. § Now add the whisked eggs and mix for about 3-4 minutes. Add baking soda and cook for one more minute. The mixture should be fluffy and twice the size. § Transfer the egg-butter mixture to a mixer and add the flour. Mix on low speed until just combined. The dough should be warm, soft and a little sticky. Do not put in more flour. § Transfer the dough onto a lightly-floured surface and bring together gently. Knead the dough a few times and form into a ball. § Divide the dough into eight equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball. Cover them with plastic wrap or kitchen towel to prevent from drying. § Preheat the oven to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. § On a lightly-floured surface, roll out one ball into a thin circle. Use the bottom of a cake pan or round bowl, cut around it with a knife to make a circle. § Place this and the remaining scraps on the baking tray. Using a fork, prick the dough in several places. Bake for 3-5 minutes. Repeat for the remaining balls. § Process the cooked scraps in a food processor until the breadcrumb stage is reached. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. To make the filling: § Whisk the two eggs in a small bowl. Add ½ cup of milk and cornflour and whisk until smooth. § In a saucepan, heat the remaining 1 ½ cups of milk but do not boil. Add the whisked egg-milk mixture to the warm milk. § Bring this to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly until it becomes very thick. Remove from the heat and cool. Whisk in the honey, butter and dulce de leche. To assemble the cake: § Place a cake layer and top it with ½ cup of the filling and spread evenly. Repeat with all the cake layers. § Some of the frosting will come out of the sides when the layers are done. Spread it evenly over the sides. Sprinkle the crushed cake scraps over the sides and on top of the cake. § Leave the cake in the refrigerator for about eight hours or overnight.
(Source: www.spillthespices.com)
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N e w R e s t a u r a n t REVIEWS
Info Box
MANHATTAN FISH MARKET November 18th Street, opposite the Azaiba beach Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. till midnight Contact: (+968) 2449-9621 Lunch for three: RO27.6
Verdict : 5/10 SERVICE 5/10 FOOD 7/10 AMBIENCE
MANHATTAN FISH MARKET TEAM Y’S DELIGHT IN PISCATORIAL PLEASURES AFTER A HARD DAY’S WORK IS ROYALLY SKEWERED HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER
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e like to push the boat out a bit from time to time, and indulge ourselves. Our ‘catch of the day’ is a slap-up nosh after an arduously long day in the office. And if we can find an eatery that offers a congenial atmosphere coupled with a talent for the traditional, then that’s for us. So on this occasion, we are bound for the Manhattan Fish Market. Nestled in the heart of November 18th Street, some little way down the road from the Al Mouj area, the outlet usually escapes the beady eye of motorists, as is evidenced by the empty seats as we enter the restaurant on a Thursday evening. Welcomed collectively with a loud chant by about five or six waiters, we’re drawn to a corner where we can catch the chef live through an oilstained glass window. The menu itself is quite sizeable, with options ranging from soups such as the clam chowder, which we’d most expect to have on a rainy day in India, to more elaborate platters complete with the fish of your choice. It doesn’t take us long to pinpoint what we want: a salmon burger, and seafood salmon and ‘Legendary Small Flame’ platters – all dishes that look scrummy on the colourful photos presented on the menu. We do find the waiter’s attentiveness to our dietary restrictions a bit casual, with him initially trying to swot up on our order before asking us to repeat it for him to take it down on a piece of paper. Nevertheless, with the order placed, we eye up the rather well-designed interior.
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Unreasonably pricey seafood fare that requires a heavy reworking from the management to regain customers left disappointed by unpalatable food.
Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals
The seafood salmon platter follows suit too, with the two (overly) oily sear-fried salmon fillets and the fragrant basmati rice taking the cake as the sole standout constituents in the dish. As for the rest of the platter – the ranch-doused prawns, fries, and calamari – are all a far cry from what one should expect when shelling out RO14 for a dish (!)
Though, even among this mess, we hit a new low when we give the unseasoned, cold and overlyrubbery calamari a try. Inedible to say the least, we’re distraught to learn that customers are served old – and possibly frozen – calamari. In a bid to cleanse our palette, we then order pudding: a sizzling brownie. As expected, it arrives not so long after. The tall brownie, decked out with a generous portion of vanilla ice cream is, by a mile, the best sight we’ve With walls reminiscent of a rustic American had all night. It’s then all brought to life when we fishing town and photo frames displaying slather it with caramel sauce and then garnish it motivational quotes, we find the décor to be welcoming; even if the ambience itself is a bit dark with crushed hazelnut chunks. The brownie itself is soft and spongy – a bit at the side we’re sitting at. light on the tummy and perfect for those looking In a mere five minutes, our salmon burger to watch their weight. arrives. But, accompanied with the ice cream and the Presented neatly with fries on the side, we hastily sizzling sauce, it’s a true masterpiece that the dig into the burger. The fresh aromatic bread coupled with the crunchy iceberg lettuce, cheddar pâtissier can take pride in creating. Having said that, our experience at the cheese, the fatty but well-done and seasoned fillet of salmon is well-received. It goes down the hatch Manhattan Fish Market is one that we’d like to forget. Nothing aside from the burger and pudding fairly speedily, and at 250 grammes, this is no stood out or even came close to doing justice to the mean achievement. money we spent for a half-decent meal. Next to arrive are the platters – both of which You’ve probably heard the adage, “Satisfaction arrive on metal plates and are charred with a is a rating. Loyalty is a brand”. Except, here at the blowtorch for a bit of showmanship. Manhattan Fish Market, we’re obliged to say that While we admire the efforts of the waiters, we here there’s neither. ■ soon find out that the ‘Legendary Small Flame’ platter – which comes with a dory fillet, potato Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see chips, steamed veggies, and grilled prawns – is a reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com. huge letdown. The prelude to the anticlimax is the dory itself, which we find raw and watery from the inside – a trait usually associated with frozen fish. We ask for it to be redone in the pan but to no avail. Even the final remnants of flavour from the otherwise soft flesh leave behind a sorry-looking dory that’s done-up heavily in batter to save the dish... in vain. The accompanying veggies are soggy too; much like the fries and the grilled prawns (which aren’t de-veined). Needless to say, the dish fails miserably and is kept aside.
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