Dubai Informer
Information about Dubai in all aspects
Friday, September 29, 2006
IIR Middle East, the organisers of the upcoming Cityscape 2006 in December 4 to 6 has announced that Donald Trump Jr., EVP of Development and Acquisitions of Trump Organization is set to deliver a key speech at this year’s conference in Dubai.
Donald Trump Jr. will put across some intricate strategies that are deemed essential to be able to attract high net-worth investors. This should be an interesting speech considering that this aspect is said to be crucial to the Middle East property market, with an aim to achieve its long-term objective in terms of holding a good reputation in property market around the globe.
Donald Trump Jr. was quoted saying, “"Regional developers need to think out of the box and to redefine the boundaries of creativity, architectural design, and structural engineering. In addition, diversifying economies attract a wider client base, thereby eliminating some of the cyclical nature of real estate investment.”
Trump Organization has joined forces with UAE developer Nakheel to build a 60-storey Trump International Hotel, a condo-hotel and residence on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.
Donald Trump Jr. will put across some intricate strategies that are deemed essential to be able to attract high net-worth investors. This should be an interesting speech considering that this aspect is said to be crucial to the Middle East property market, with an aim to achieve its long-term objective in terms of holding a good reputation in property market around the globe.Donald Trump Jr. was quoted saying, “"Regional developers need to think out of the box and to redefine the boundaries of creativity, architectural design, and structural engineering. In addition, diversifying economies attract a wider client base, thereby eliminating some of the cyclical nature of real estate investment.”
Trump Organization has joined forces with UAE developer Nakheel to build a 60-storey Trump International Hotel, a condo-hotel and residence on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.
Labels: Dubai, Events, Properties
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Here is a complete list of Islamic Prayer Time during Ramadan.
To read more about The Holy Month Of Ramadan, check out our related articles
The Holy Month of Ramadan
and
Ramadan Begins Today
To read more about The Holy Month Of Ramadan, check out our related articles
The Holy Month of Ramadan
and
Ramadan Begins Today
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
As majority of the workforce here in Dubai, in fact roughly 90% are ex-pats, this land is no stranger to lonely people, married or not.
There are the single ones, who have easily decided to embark on a new journey following their chosen career path;
There are the breadwinners of families, having to live far away from home to support a family;
There are the couples who both decided to start a new life here in Dubai;
Where and how can they meet people that they can relate with?
Few of the factors segregating the ex-pats here in Dubai are racial differences, religion and social status. This makes them quite cautious and wary in dealing with people. Some choose not to interact with other people that much at all! So where can people really start meeting other people that share the same interest as theirs?
Last year, a social and dining club was launched in Dubai dubbed Table4six. The concept of this club is that they bring together people using a good denominator: same interests. This breaks down the barriers that hold them back from socializing with other people.
The club will basically ask for your profile to find out what type of person you are, what are your interests and with which type of people you are more likely to blend well. They arrange dinners for six people, and you can be invited to those dinners. You can accept as many invitations as you want depending on how socially active you are, and how many new people you want to meet! It’s really up to you….
This can be a big help to ex-pats who don’t know where to meet the type of people they want to meet, in a decent and casual manner. The idea of six people is good because the number perfectly makes up a crowd in such a way that nobody can be left aside.
What makes this club great is that it’s applicable to singles and couples. The environment and setting is made ready for you. One just has to talk and get to know the other people in the group and take it from there.
Didn’t like the group you had dinner with last week? Don’t worry, as long as you are a member, the invitations will keep pouring in! Hopefully this would lend a hand in easing up the number of socially challenged ex-pats in Dubai.
There are the single ones, who have easily decided to embark on a new journey following their chosen career path;
There are the breadwinners of families, having to live far away from home to support a family;
There are the couples who both decided to start a new life here in Dubai;
Where and how can they meet people that they can relate with?
Few of the factors segregating the ex-pats here in Dubai are racial differences, religion and social status. This makes them quite cautious and wary in dealing with people. Some choose not to interact with other people that much at all! So where can people really start meeting other people that share the same interest as theirs?
Last year, a social and dining club was launched in Dubai dubbed Table4six. The concept of this club is that they bring together people using a good denominator: same interests. This breaks down the barriers that hold them back from socializing with other people.
The club will basically ask for your profile to find out what type of person you are, what are your interests and with which type of people you are more likely to blend well. They arrange dinners for six people, and you can be invited to those dinners. You can accept as many invitations as you want depending on how socially active you are, and how many new people you want to meet! It’s really up to you….
This can be a big help to ex-pats who don’t know where to meet the type of people they want to meet, in a decent and casual manner. The idea of six people is good because the number perfectly makes up a crowd in such a way that nobody can be left aside.
What makes this club great is that it’s applicable to singles and couples. The environment and setting is made ready for you. One just has to talk and get to know the other people in the group and take it from there.
Didn’t like the group you had dinner with last week? Don’t worry, as long as you are a member, the invitations will keep pouring in! Hopefully this would lend a hand in easing up the number of socially challenged ex-pats in Dubai.
Labels: Dubai
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Raffles Dubai has marked the completion of its concrete structure of this 19-floor, 257-room hotel last week. The pyramid-shaped hotel
started its construction last April 2005, and is set to be finished in summer next year, March 2007. Raffles Dubai is scheduled to be operational and open to the public by middle of 2007 as well. (picture curtesy of Raffles Dubai hotel)
Located in Wafi City, an Egyptian-themed mall located in the heart of Dubai, this new addition to Raffles chain of hotels worldwide is the first hotel in their venture in the Middle East. Raffles Dubai is also the first hotel by Raffles International to be considered as a “build”, as most Raffles hotels are known to be located within historic buildings.
In addition to its 19 floors, Raffles Dubai will have two basements. These basements are said to be used for vehicle parking, and a shopping centre. The first few floors of Raffles Dubai will be hotel rooms, while the remaining few floors will be private apartments. The three remaining top floors of the hotel will be filled with restaurants and night clubs. The top of the structure is expected to be a glass pyramid in gold color that will sparkle in daytime, and will be backlit during night time. Raffles Dubai will also provide its guests an access to Wafi Mall if they want to see and enjoy the other parts of Wafi City.
While the concrete structure was still underway, its construction has been keenly observed by the public, mainly by motorists along Sheikh Rashid road. And with its completion, it won’t be long until the finishes of the hotel
Labels: Construction, Dubai
Saturday, September 23, 2006
(Information courtesy: Gulf News - reported today)
Abu Dhabi: The Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee announced that today is the first day of Ramadan. This announcement came in a communiqué released by the committee after its meeting yesterday in the Sharia Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi, headed by Mohammad Bin Nakhira Al Daheri, Minister of Justice.
The committee extended their warm greetings to President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Time for restraint and tolerance
By Samir Salama Bureau Chief and Abbas Al Lawati Staff Reporter
Ramadan
might seem like a time for sales, late nights and full dinner tables, but it is much more. The month of fasting is in fact a time of giving, patience and tolerance for Muslims.
For more than a billion Muslims around the world, it is the time for devotion to God and self-restraint, when communal nightly prayers are conducted and the basic teachings of Islam are emphasised and Ummah (Islamic nation) consciousness is heightened.
As the ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar, Ramadan comes 11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar and the duration of the fast changes depending on which season the holy month falls in.
The start of Ramadan, as that of all Islamic months, is based on the sighting of the new moon, the hilal, which is why the crescent is often used as an unofficial symbol of the month. The moon sighting is also the reason that the start of Ramadan differs from one country to another, but many opt to follow Saudi Arabian sightings to be able to mark the holy days together.
Obligatory
As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting during Ramadan, which is considered one of the highest forms of worship, is obligatory for those Muslims past the age of puberty who are mentally and physically fit and not travelling, as long as it does not cause them physical or mental harm.
Those who cannot fast during Ramadan, owing to health or other reasons, may fast in other months, or feed the poor.
But a Ramadan fast is not a simple abstention from food, drink and sex during daylight hours. A fast consists of a true and verbal intention that must be recited, as well as a package of do's an don'ts which are specifically emphasised during the month.
Fasting, or sawm (literally: refrain), which did not become obligatory until AD 624, offers an opportunity for Muslims to cleanse the body and mind. It promotes the principle of sincerity by keeping the individual away from arrogance.
Among the greatest benefit is the lesson in self-restraint and discipline that could be carried forward to other aspects of a person's life, such as work and education. The lengthy nightly prayer, called Taraweeh is an important element of rituals during the month of Ramadan.
Changes in everyday life for Muslims
Work hours in the private sector are shortened by two hours for Muslims and non-Muslims. The public sector will function from 9am to 2pm
Live music is banned through the month
Shopping malls and supermarkets are expected to be open late at night
Abu Dhabi: The Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee announced that today is the first day of Ramadan. This announcement came in a communiqué released by the committee after its meeting yesterday in the Sharia Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi, headed by Mohammad Bin Nakhira Al Daheri, Minister of Justice.
The committee extended their warm greetings to President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Time for restraint and tolerance
By Samir Salama Bureau Chief and Abbas Al Lawati Staff Reporter
Ramadan
might seem like a time for sales, late nights and full dinner tables, but it is much more. The month of fasting is in fact a time of giving, patience and tolerance for Muslims.For more than a billion Muslims around the world, it is the time for devotion to God and self-restraint, when communal nightly prayers are conducted and the basic teachings of Islam are emphasised and Ummah (Islamic nation) consciousness is heightened.
As the ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar, Ramadan comes 11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar and the duration of the fast changes depending on which season the holy month falls in.
The start of Ramadan, as that of all Islamic months, is based on the sighting of the new moon, the hilal, which is why the crescent is often used as an unofficial symbol of the month. The moon sighting is also the reason that the start of Ramadan differs from one country to another, but many opt to follow Saudi Arabian sightings to be able to mark the holy days together.
Obligatory
As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting during Ramadan, which is considered one of the highest forms of worship, is obligatory for those Muslims past the age of puberty who are mentally and physically fit and not travelling, as long as it does not cause them physical or mental harm.
Those who cannot fast during Ramadan, owing to health or other reasons, may fast in other months, or feed the poor.
But a Ramadan fast is not a simple abstention from food, drink and sex during daylight hours. A fast consists of a true and verbal intention that must be recited, as well as a package of do's an don'ts which are specifically emphasised during the month.
Fasting, or sawm (literally: refrain), which did not become obligatory until AD 624, offers an opportunity for Muslims to cleanse the body and mind. It promotes the principle of sincerity by keeping the individual away from arrogance.
Among the greatest benefit is the lesson in self-restraint and discipline that could be carried forward to other aspects of a person's life, such as work and education. The lengthy nightly prayer, called Taraweeh is an important element of rituals during the month of Ramadan.
Changes in everyday life for Muslims
Work hours in the private sector are shortened by two hours for Muslims and non-Muslims. The public sector will function from 9am to 2pm
Live music is banned through the month
Shopping malls and supermarkets are expected to be open late at night
A typical day
A typical day of fasting begins with waking up before dawn to have a meal called the suhoor before the start of the fasting day. At sunset, Muslims usually break their fasts upon the call for Maghreb (sunset) prayers with another meal called iftar. Prayers are conducted five times through the day, as they are on all days, and an extra set of prayers called Taraweeh is conducted after iftar.
Forbidden during fasting hours
Eating and drinking
Sexual intercourse
Smoking
Tips for non-Muslims
Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public, thus being considerate to those fasting.
Since it is a time of piety and high religious consciousness, it would be considerate to dress and behave modestly, avoiding animated behaviour that could cause offence.
Those who want to understand the holy month better could consider involving themselves in the spirit of the month, which would be welcomed by most Muslims. Saying 'Ramadan Kareem' to Muslims and attending a fast-breaking feast, or Iftar, would be appreciated by most.
Since cultural consciousness is also high during the month, Ramadan can be a good time to connect with the local and Muslim cultural scene by attending the various musical and social events, as well as trying local and regional cuisine that is popular during the month of fasting.
Arabic speaking non-Muslims wishing to learn more about the region and its people will notice that Arabic television channels change their programming to a new schedule dedicated for Ramadan, when some of the most popular celebrities in the Arab world feature in some of the most-watched soap operas, historic series, as well as religious, cultural and musical shows.
For further Information about Ramadan you can check out our earlier article Holy Month Of Ramadan. The Dubai Informer says 'Ramadan Kareem'.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Sheikh Zayed Road is known to be the most famous road in Dubai. This is the home of the emirate’s marvellous products of architecture, the magnificent rows of skyscrapersputting tourists in awe in such admiration. It would take them an average of five minutes to appreciate the different modern buildings aligned to entertain road travellers, depending on the traffic.
putting tourists in awe in such admiration. It would take them an average of five minutes to appreciate the different modern buildings aligned to entertain road travellers, depending on the traffic.
The five-minute tour is just between the Trade Center (DWTC) and Defence roundabout, a stretch of only about 2 kilometres. The development in the previous years was concentrated on this area, The Trade Centre Building being one of the first few buildings to be built there. But right now, a massive construction is happening on the other side, which includes the most anticipated Burj Dubai, believed to be the new tallest building in the world once completed in 2008.
The DWTC being the home of major exhibitions in Dubai makes Sheikh Zayed road more known to tourists and businessmen seeking new grounds in this region. Excluding the months of May to September, exhibitions from the different industry existing in Dubai has been keeping Sheikh Zayed Road busy as ever.
Interesting mixes of hotelsare also situated in this famous avenue, mostly rated as five-stars. The Fairmont Hotel is situated opposite DWTC, and an overpass has just made exhibitors / trade visitors of exhibitions easy to access the hotel if they choose to stay there. Crowne Plaza Hotel is located just a few meters after The Fairmont, which can also be a good choice to stay if you are attending an exhibition.
Other hotels located in Sheikh Zayed Road are Towers Rotana Hotel, The Emirates Towers, Shangri-la Plaza Hotel and The Novotel Ibis, which is located at the DWTC premises itself. Hotel Apartments on the other hand are also available, such as the DWTC Hotel Apartments and Dusit Hotel.
Just when we think that exhibitions happening in Dubai are enough to make this wonderful place busy, commercial spaces come to the picture.
Way before Dubai Media City and Internet City and other industrial areas were built; Sheikh Zayed Road was and still is the place to hold offices if you are up to the prime location and prestige side of doing business. A good mix of different offices is being run here which makes this place also busy enough on a nine-to-five basis.
A fair amount of employees are also living along Sheikh Zayed Road, as most buildings combine a mix of commercial and residential areas in their floors. Although the rate can be as much as double compared to apartments in the outskirts of Dubai, many residents still choose to live in Sheikh Zayed Road mainly to enjoy and appreciate its busy nature. Emirates Airlines is also housing some of its cabin crew members in several buildings along Sheikh Zayed Road.
Coffee shops such as Starbucks, Second Cup, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and French Connection are alongside this avenue, as well as restaurants with different cuisines. American food is existing in TGI Fridays, Coco’s and Applebee’s. Some other great restaurants are Gelato, if you are craving for a taste of Italian food. Al Safadi is just around the corner, as well as Saj Express, if you’re looking for a taste of Lebanese.
As winter season approaches in December, it would be good to take the opportunity to have a long amusing walk along Sheikh Zayed Road to see its wonders, building after building. Nice little cozy restaurants may surprise you.New city developments may have been and are still being developed. There are new malls and office areas that are industry-grouped these days. Dubai’s development plans are still yet to be completed, and they continue to plan more for its development. Long before Sheikh Zayed Road was a spectacular destination, there were Naif Road, Rigga Road, and other streets near the Creek that used to be the center of the emirate. But as Dubai becomes more modern in time, they have been slowly forgotten. However, with wonderful landmarks such as The Emirates Towers, Burj Dubai, and more to come, Sheikh Zayed Road will stick around the top list of to-go’s in Dubai for a while. With the perfect mix of residential and commercial elements, it will always be a pleasure to drive through this fabulous avenue, Sheikh Zayed Road.
Labels: Construction, Dubai, Properties
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort to open in the Middle East. The resort was made open to public last September 2005, and is located at the heart of Mall of the Emirates, a shopping centre owned and managed by Majid Al Futtaim Group of Companies.
This Ski Dubai arena boasts a mountain-themed 22,500 square-metre space of skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. If you just want to hang around and enjoy the nice temperature, there is also the 3,000 square-metre Snow Park dedicated to people who just want to play in the snow with some nice slides.
Ski Dubai is offering its guests the use of winter clothing, ski & snowboard equipment. This makes it easier for guests to just throw themselves in without worrying about the necessary outfit and equipment they need to use inside. Anyhow, you better bring another Sweatshirt, a scarf, some gloves and a hat, because it is really winter inside. It’s around 3 degrees celsius, meaning minimum 30 degrees celsius less than outside ;-)Should guests prefer buying their own equipment, Ski Dubai has its own Snow Pro, a retail shop exclusively operating for them. You can also easily ask for consultation and easy tips from a team of professional instructors.
Ski Dubai also has some themed restaurants available; the St. Moritz Café at the entrance and the Avalanche Café at the mid-station.
Ski Dubai is connected to the Kempinski Hotel, which has rooms with "view to the slope"
To adjust to the upcoming Ramadan season, its operating hours are:Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 11pm
last ticket to be sold at 21.30
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to midnight
last ticket to be sold at 22.30
Entry Prices in AED: Adult (child 3 to 12 years)
Snow park 60 (50)
Ski Slope 2 Hrs 140 (120)
Extension per Hr 30 (20)
Ski Slope Day Pass 230 (180)
Express Pass – 10 sessions: 1260 (1080)
Lessons cost you from 120 AED onwards.
The entry prices include boots, equipment (no hats and gloves).
Map how to reach Ski Dubai
So why are you still reading this and not yet in Ski Dubai?
Labels: Construction, Dubai
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Dubai's Gulf News reported today that the land deals in Dubai last week hit a stunning 429.02 million AED, with sales exceeding 253 million AED.
This goes back to 34 sales transactions, which have been registered with the department by the end of last week. The biggest deal was made for a plot in Oud Metha in Dubai, which was sold for 90 million AED.
The second one was a plot in Emirates Hills 2, which went for 24.406 million AED. Third one was land in Al Mamzar, sold for 18.5 million AED.
This goes back to 34 sales transactions, which have been registered with the department by the end of last week. The biggest deal was made for a plot in Oud Metha in Dubai
, which was sold for 90 million AED.The second one was a plot in Emirates Hills 2, which went for 24.406 million AED. Third one was land in Al Mamzar, sold for 18.5 million AED.
The Emirates Hills 1 area was the most active one with 16 deals alone.
The Al Mamzar area recorded 4 sales. The biggest plot sold was a 45’194 square feet area in Emirates Hills 2, the deal was closed for 24.41 million AED. The plot in Oud Metha, which was sold for 90 million AED is 26’147 square feet big.
Please note that this was all happening within one week only ;-)
We will inform you about the developments in this areas in later articles.
The Al Mamzar area recorded 4 sales. The biggest plot sold was a 45’194 square feet area in Emirates Hills 2, the deal was closed for 24.41 million AED. The plot in Oud Metha, which was sold for 90 million AED is 26’147 square feet big.
Please note that this was all happening within one week only ;-)
We will inform you about the developments in this areas in later articles.
Labels: Construction, Dubai, Properties
Friday, September 15, 2006
“A different language is a different vision of life.” ~Federico Fellini
Citizens of the world, here are some useful basic words and phrases in arabic to help you begin to explore the amazing Arabic language in Dubai and how they describe and interpret their vision of life in their own way.
marhaban
Hello; welcome
as-salamu alaykum
Hello; Peace upon you
alaykumu s-salam
Hello; Peace upon you, too
kayf haluk?
How are you?
shukran. al-hamdu li-lah. wa ant?
Thank you. Fine, by God's mercy. And you?
ma a salama
Go without fear
ila l-liqa
So long; Until the next time
More about the arabic language!
These few phrases in arabic language should help you in arabic speaking places all over the world and of course here in lovely Dubai.
Citizens of the world, here are some useful basic words and phrases in arabic to help you begin to explore the amazing Arabic language in Dubai and how they describe and interpret their vision of life in their own way.
marhaban
Hello; welcome
as-salamu alaykum
Hello; Peace upon you
alaykumu s-salam
Hello; Peace upon you, too
kayf haluk?
How are you?
shukran. al-hamdu li-lah. wa ant?
Thank you. Fine, by God's mercy. And you?
ma a salama
Go without fear
ila l-liqa
So long; Until the next time
More about the arabic language!
These few phrases in arabic language should help you in arabic speaking places all over the world and of course here in lovely Dubai.
Labels: Dubai
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
As traffic becomes more and more of a concern in Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has sanctioned the project to have a Floating Bridge on the Dubai Creek, half-a-kilometer to the south of Al Maktoum Bridge. 
Its construction has begun a few months back, and is set to be completed by March 2007. According to the officials of the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), the six-lane bridge will hold over 6,000 vehicles during peak hours.
The bridge will stretch across the surface intersection near
Deira City Centre and Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, and will end at the intersection to be built on Riyadh Street between Dubai Courts and Creek Park.
"The Floating Bridge is a temporary solution until the Authority successfully completes the design and construction of a permanent bridge at the same place" according to Eng. Maitha Bin Adi, CEO of Dubai Traffic and Roads Corporation at RTA.
The Floating Bridge is part of an integrated system the RTA is implementing that is set to reduce the traffic congestion by 37% on Al Maktoum Bridge, on which more than 150,000 vehicle pass each day. A first-of-its-kind project in the UAE, the Floating Bridge will be built out of 2-meter-wide hollow concrete blocks that will float on water.
The rolling segment of the bridge allows it to open and close at intervals of 20 minutes. These opening and closing times will be set in coordination with the authorities regulating the movement of ships and ferries crossing Dubai Creek. Ferries on the other hand will have a side-way passage that will not require the opening and closing of the Floating Bridge.
While its construction is going smoothly, the finish of the Floating Bridge is anticipated by many Dubai motorists who are constantly battling their way on a daily basis in this particular route. This has generated quite an amount of interest and intrigue. Hopefully by next year, motorists in Dubai will be delighted in having serviced by the new Floating Bridge.
Its construction has begun a few months back, and is set to be completed by March 2007. According to the officials of the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), the six-lane bridge will hold over 6,000 vehicles during peak hours.The bridge will stretch across the surface intersection near
Deira City Centre and Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, and will end at the intersection to be built on Riyadh Street between Dubai Courts and Creek Park.
"The Floating Bridge is a temporary solution until the Authority successfully completes the design and construction of a permanent bridge at the same place" according to Eng. Maitha Bin Adi, CEO of Dubai Traffic and Roads Corporation at RTA.
The Floating Bridge is part of an integrated system the RTA is implementing that is set to reduce the traffic congestion by 37% on Al Maktoum Bridge, on which more than 150,000 vehicle pass each day. A first-of-its-kind project in the UAE, the Floating Bridge will be built out of 2-meter-wide hollow concrete blocks that will float on water.
The rolling segment of the bridge allows it to open and close at intervals of 20 minutes. These opening and closing times will be set in coordination with the authorities regulating the movement of ships and ferries crossing Dubai Creek. Ferries on the other hand will have a side-way passage that will not require the opening and closing of the Floating Bridge.
While its construction is going smoothly, the finish of the Floating Bridge is anticipated by many Dubai motorists who are constantly battling their way on a daily basis in this particular route. This has generated quite an amount of interest and intrigue. Hopefully by next year, motorists in Dubai will be delighted in having serviced by the new Floating Bridge.
Labels: Construction, Dubai
Monday, September 11, 2006
The word “Ramadan” is derived from the word ramd, meaning ‘to burn”. This month is predominantly sacred for Muslims mainly because the Noble Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Mohammed during this month. It is during this time also that he declared to his followers that the gates of Heaven will be open, and the gates of Hell will be closed.
During Ramadan, Muslims go into fasting literally from dawn to dusk. It is believed that the reason they are fasting is to burn all sins. They break their fast daily depending on what time the sun will set. They call this meal “Iftar”.
For non-Muslims, it is widely thought that the period of Ramadan can be quite restrictive in terms of how they move in public. But instead of focusing on the restrictions, anyone can enjoy this season and appreciate this part of Muslim culture. One can share an Iftar meal with Muslim friends. Another way is to visit the many Ramadan tents set up throughout the country.
To mention the normal limits applied during Ramadan:
1)Dress more conservatively than usual during this month
2)Do not eat, drink, even chew a gum, smoke a cigarette in public places or offices
3)Pay more attention to one’s fasting colleagues and acquaintances, and avoid any arguments or heated discussion as much as possible to show support and understanding in their fasting
Work timings are reduced during the time of Ramadan from eight hours to six hours. However, it is normally the discretion of companies, especially private ones if the Ramadan timings shall be applied to all employees or to Muslims only. Currently, in an effort to minimize the effect of the reduced timings in their companies, private firms only apply these timings to Muslims.
The start of Ramadan this year is believed tentatively to be on the 24th September, or whenever the sighting of the moon will occur. The end of Ramadan is also decided the same way a month later. Eid Al Fitr, or the celebration of the end of Ramadan happens the morning following the sighting of the new moon.
Literally, Eid means to gather or to celebrate. Thus, the Eid celebrations all over the world involve people getting together for festivities. It is a practice during this period to visit relatives and friends, especially the sick and elderly. Special sweets are made especially for Eid Al Fitr and new clothes are purchased for children.
As Eid Al Fitr is normally celebrated for three days. All public offices remain closed for the festivities, as well as some private private sector offices. So that's what Muslims call Ramadan.
During Ramadan, Muslims go into fasting literally from dawn to dusk. It is believed that the reason they are fasting is to burn all sins. They break their fast daily depending on what time the sun will set. They call this meal “Iftar”.
For non-Muslims, it is widely thought that the period of Ramadan
can be quite restrictive in terms of how they move in public. But instead of focusing on the restrictions, anyone can enjoy this season and appreciate this part of Muslim culture. One can share an Iftar meal with Muslim friends. Another way is to visit the many Ramadan tents set up throughout the country.To mention the normal limits applied during Ramadan:
1)Dress more conservatively than usual during this month
2)Do not eat, drink, even chew a gum, smoke a cigarette in public places or offices
3)Pay more attention to one’s fasting colleagues and acquaintances, and avoid any arguments or heated discussion as much as possible to show support and understanding in their fasting
Work timings are reduced during the time of Ramadan from eight hours to six hours. However, it is normally the discretion of companies, especially private ones if the Ramadan timings shall be applied to all employees or to Muslims only. Currently, in an effort to minimize the effect of the reduced timings in their companies, private firms only apply these timings to Muslims.
The start of Ramadan this year is believed tentatively to be on the 24th September, or whenever the sighting of the moon will occur. The end of Ramadan is also decided the same way a month later. Eid Al Fitr, or the celebration of the end of Ramadan
happens the morning following the sighting of the new moon.Literally, Eid means to gather or to celebrate. Thus, the Eid celebrations all over the world involve people getting together for festivities. It is a practice during this period to visit relatives and friends, especially the sick and elderly. Special sweets are made especially for Eid Al Fitr and new clothes are purchased for children.
As Eid Al Fitr is normally celebrated for three days. All public offices remain closed for the festivities, as well as some private private sector offices. So that's what Muslims call Ramadan.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Burj Dubai Reaches Level Seventy (70) in Construction
Predicted to be the tallest building in the world once completed, Burj Dubai celebrates its accomplishment in reaching its 70th level in construction.
This magnificent project developed by Emaar Properties (these guys made a great video about the Burj Dubai) is scheduled to be finished by the end of December 2008.
It started its construction last February 2005 and has since begun its unstoppable rise, achieved day by day.
Burj Dubai brings together retail, commercial and residential spaces – a great mix emanating Dubai’s capitalist vision and architectural competitiveness being realized since a few years ago. In fact, Emaar Properties has already embarked in a deal with Giorgio Armani SpA to develop one of the first Armani hotels in Burj Dubai.
Burj Dubai is designed by Chicago-based Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and is being constructed by South Korea’s Samsung Corporation. The construction is being managed however by Turner Construction.
Burj Dubai’s closest rival in the “Tallest Building in the World” title is Taipei 101, which was completed last 2003. Taipei 101 is boasting 509meters, while Burj Dubai is set to be at around 810meters in height. However, Emaar Properties is not disclosing the final number of meters this spectacular building will possess. Along with Burj Dubai, a number of towers in other parts of the globe are being constructed right now. But its closest rival is just located 50kilometers away from the building.
Another developer in Dubai, Nakheel, is building Al Burj whose height is also being kept under wraps. The height of the building is rumoured to be at least 700meters. Ignoring the fact that another building in Kuwait, Madinat al-Hareer (City of Silk) is also a rival, Al Burj is so far the biggest threat to Burj Dubai.
Predicted to be the tallest building in the world once completed, Burj Dubai celebrates its accomplishment in reaching its 70th level in construction.
This magnificent project developed by Emaar Properties (these guys made a great video about the Burj Dubai) is scheduled to be finished by the end of December 2008.
It started its construction last February 2005 and has since begun its unstoppable rise, achieved day by day.
Burj Dubai brings together retail, commercial and residential spaces – a great mix emanating Dubai’s capitalist vision and architectural competitiveness being realized since a few years ago. In fact, Emaar Properties has already embarked in a deal with Giorgio Armani SpA to develop one of the first Armani hotels in Burj Dubai.
Burj Dubai
is designed by Chicago-based Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and is being constructed by South Korea’s Samsung Corporation. The construction is being managed however by Turner Construction.Burj Dubai’s closest rival in the “Tallest Building in the World” title is Taipei 101, which was completed last 2003. Taipei 101 is boasting 509meters, while Burj Dubai is set to be at around 810meters in height. However, Emaar Properties is not disclosing the final number of meters this spectacular building will possess. Along with Burj Dubai, a number of towers in other parts of the globe are being constructed right now. But its closest rival is just located 50kilometers away from the building.
Another developer in Dubai
, Nakheel, is building Al Burj whose height is also being kept under wraps. The height of the building is rumoured to be at least 700meters. Ignoring the fact that another building in Kuwait, Madinat al-Hareer (City of Silk) is also a rival, Al Burj is so far the biggest threat to Burj Dubai.Labels: Burj Dubai, Construction, Dubai, Properties
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Such an event right at the beginning of our Dubai blog, WOW!
Today we have a heavy sandstorm here in Dubai. Sandstorm happens sometimes, especially in summer, but today it's really heavy. You can't see more than maybe 50 to 100 meters, and people drive carefully, which is really seldom here in lovely Dubai. It's best if you see the sandstorm yourself...
Today we have a heavy sandstorm here in Dubai. Sandstorm happens sometimes, especially in summer, but today it's really heavy. You can't see more than maybe 50 to 100 meters, and people drive carefully, which is really seldom here in lovely Dubai
. It's best if you see the sandstorm yourself...Labels: Dubai
Friday, September 01, 2006
A site dedicated to fanatics of this 4.114 km2 sized splendid emirate of the United Arab Emirates. Despite the fact that it is only the second biggest of the seven emirates, Dubai has managed to attract the worlds attention with its massive construction and development in various industries.
Stay in-the-know with only the recent news and development updates about Dubai that you will find in this regularly updated site of the Dubai Informer. Bits and pieces of what's happening in the different busy sectors of tourism, travel, construction, aviation, oil + gas, property development, telecommunications etc. will be made available here for you...
As Dubai becomes an emerging top holiday destination, this site can also be a guide to tourists aiming to know some basic information in visiting the emirate. Important hotel information and updates, reasonable options in visiting various city spots can also be found here on the Dubai Informer.
Stay in-the-know with only the recent news and development updates about Dubai
that you will find in this regularly updated site of the Dubai Informer. Bits and pieces of what's happening in the different busy sectors of tourism, travel, construction, aviation, oil + gas, property development, telecommunications etc. will be made available here for you...As Dubai becomes an emerging top holiday destination, this site can also be a guide to tourists aiming to know some basic information in visiting the emirate. Important hotel information and updates, reasonable options in visiting various city spots can also be found here on the Dubai Informer.
Labels: Dubai
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