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 Basra Governor commends DNRD for installing highly advanced passport control facility

 Dubai - March 28, 2004 A high level Iraqi delegation, led by the Governor of Basra, His Excellency Wael Abdelateef Hussain, visited the e-Gate facility at Dubai International Airport during a recent visit to Dubai . The Governor and his 20-member team, accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Jassim Abdul Ghafoor, Assistant Director in charge of Border Control, DNRD studied the card-operated electronic passport control system that has been operational since August 2002 and acquired an ‘e-card’ that enables quick access to the airport to registered visitors.

Dubai International Airport is one of only three airports in the world, and the first in the Middle East, to use the e-Gate system. e-Gate is a fully automated passport control system, that allows card-operated access to registered passengers. e-Gate offers passengers greater security as it replaces manual checks with biometric technology (fingerprint scan) to identify and clear registered passengers.

“As e-Gate represents one of the key achievements of DNRD, we thought it appropriate to introduce our Iraqi visitors to this facility. We also provided each member of the Iraqi delegation an e-card that will make their entry easy and quick each time they come to Dubai,” said Colonel bin Belailah. “ Dubai airport is among the world’s few airports to install such an advanced passport control system. As Iraq prepares to return to its former glory with a massive reconstruction process, we believe projects like e-Gate will inspire them to adopt state-of-the-art systems to accelerate the pace of catching up with the rest of the world.”

“The development of e-Gate demonstrates Dubai’s vision to be a leader in business and tourism,” said Colonel bin Belailah. “As Dubai prepares to handle 30 million visitors by 2010, the pressure on passport control staff is going to be tremendous. e-Gate has been created with this aspect in mind. It takes just 5 seconds for pre-registered passengers to complete the formalities, using the electronic identification card.”

“It is a matter of great pride that an Arab country is leading the way in pioneering a highly sophisticated and improved facility for passport control,” commented His Excellency Wael Abdelateef Hussain, after visiting e-Gate. “The success of this project reflects the spirit of innovation that drives Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD) in handling the challenging job of satisfying the large number of expatriates and constant flood of tourist and business visitors. “e-Gate is a value-added benefit to the user-friendly amenities at Dubai Airport because it eliminates manual screening and stamping. It is a futuristic facility that has contributed to building a better image of Dubai.

“Our visit to Dubai has convinced us more than ever that there is a huge potential for enhanced cooperation between Iraq and the UAE. The vision of the UAE rulers and the hard work of the private and public sectors have combined to create a model state,” added the Governor. “We appreciate the warm welcome extended to us by DNRD, and are confident that this is just the first step towards a stronger partnership being established between our two governments.” e-Gate can be used by pre-registered users through an e-card issued by DNRD. The card can be obtained beforehand by producing a passport-size photograph and original passport. The system is foolproof as it uses the e-card and the fingerprint scan of the user for identification and instant information retrieval. Within seconds, the computer checks the credentials of the user and provides or denies access, depending on the reading.

Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD), was established in 1971. It consists of 12 Sections, six of which are main sections located within the premises of the administration, namely: Naturalization and Passports Section, Entry Permits Section, Residency Section, Investigation and Control Section, Administration and Finance Section and Information Technology Section. The other six sections are spread over Dubai and neighboring area and include Dubai Airport passports Section, Rashid Port Passports Section, Shindegah Port Passports Section, Hamriah port Passports Section, Jebel Ali Port Passports Section and Hatta Passports Section.

DNRD has recently installed a fast-track electronic passport control system at the Dubai International Airport , eGate, that offers card-operated access to the airport to travelers through pre-registration. eGate helps passengers complete passport control within a few seconds, using an electronically operated foolproof fingerprint identification system. Dubai Airport is the first airport in the Middle East and the third in the world to install such an advanced passenger clearance system.

 

TURKEY ’S AUTOPART SECTOR TARGETS MID EAST IN US $10 BILLION EXPORT DRIVE

MEGA PAVILION PLANNED FOR AAME 2005 

 Dubai 29 March 2004

 Turkey is targeting growing Middle East demand for vehicle spare parts and accessories in a bid to increase its worldwide automotive sector exports to US $10 billion within the next four years. The assault on the region’s expanding component and accessories aftermarket is being spearheaded by the country’s largest ever national pavilion at Automotive Aftermarket Middle East (AAME) – the region’s premier international trade show for automobile parts, accessories, tyres, batteries and garage equipment – which runs at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC) until Tuesday. (March 30) Turkey’s pavilion at AAME 2004, which is organised by International Expo-Consults (IEC), has seen a 50% increase in the number of participants, a move the country’s Export Promotion Bureau, ULUDAG, says reflects the rapid growth in its own automotive aftermarket segment.

“ Turkey ’s automotive and auto parts industry exports are increasing steadily year by year. In 2003, the export value of spare parts and accessories was US $2.4 billion, a 26% increase from 2002,” said M. Erkut Ozerman, Chairman of the Board, ULUDAG Automotive and Sub-Industry Exporters Union.

Based on the overwhelming response this year, Turkey will return to AAME next year with a 50% increase in exhibitor numbers making it the country’s largest pavilion to date.  “If you look at just the UAE market, there has been a 150% increase in Turkish exports since 2002. We grossed over US $30 million here last year,” said Ozerman. After textiles, the automotive sector is Turkey ’s second largest manufacturing industry, employing more than 500,000 people. Over 3,500 small and medium size companies provide components for many of the world’s leading car manufacturers, including General Motors, DaimlerChrysler, BMW, Fiat, Opel, Toyota, Ford and Volkswagen.

“In the near future, Turkey will be the world’s ‘alternative production centre of vehicles and parts’, and the automotive sector will become one of the leading sectors of the manufacturing industry,” said Ozerman“ Toyota has just opened a manufacturing plant in Turkey , meaning that all Corolla models for worldwide distribution will be produced there. Ford Motor Company is also set to produce all its light commercial transit vehicles solely in Turkey . It is a real shot in the arm for the market.”

AAME 2004 is the biggest in its nine year history and has graduated into two halls.  Housing over 200 companies from North and South America , Europe , the Middle East , Far East and Australasia , AAME 2004 mirrors the growth of the Middle East Automotive Aftermarket industry. “The development of the regional trade, which is now achieving an average of 6% growth annually, is one of the highest in the world,” said Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, President, IEC. “With the Middle East aftermarket sector worth in excess of $11 billion, we are continuously striving to offer our exhibitors the best possible chance to secure a market share. “The event gives visitors direct access to local and international companies displaying the latest products, technology and services in the Automotive Aftermarket Industry. It gives them an opportunity to attend industry focussed seminars that highlight the market trends and the growth opportunities in the sector.”

With a visitor footprint taking in the entire Middle East and North Africa, the show serves an industry where demand for the latest spare parts, components and accessories is being fuelled by one of the world’s highest ownership of vehicles, as well as heightened customer expectation and competition.

Oman Oil Industry Supplies and Services commended for upholding the BSA Code of Ethics

March 27, 2004

Business Software Alliance (BSA), the leading non-governmental organisation that represents the interests of global and local software developers, has commended Oman Oil Industry Supplies and Services Company LLC (OOISS), a company belonging to the Zubair Corporation of Oman , for upholding the BSA Code of Ethics. OOISS was awarded a Certificate by Mr. Jawad Al Redha, Co-Chairman, BSA, at an event organised on March 21, 2004 .

Speaking on the occasion, Al Redha said, “OOISS have consistently provided support to the IPR campaigns launched by BSA. Through the use of original, licensed software in every aspect of their daily operations, OOISS have proven that the use of legal copies of software can enhance workflow because of its superior capabilities. What is even more commendable is that OOISS invested in legal software, when the availability of cheaper, pirated software was rampant.”

“The protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) is crucial the flourishing of innovation in any sector of the market. As such, by creating obstacles to investment in research and development, violations of IPR can cause serious harm to the growth potential of an economy. BSA’s campaigns have been geared towards eradicating this menace from the Middle Eastern IT markets. It is heartening to note that our consistent awareness campaigns have borne fruit and important players from the regional markets have come forward to lead by example the fight for IPR protection,” added Al Redha.

“OOISS commitment to IPR is rooted in the belief if that there are no shortcuts to quality. The potential of original software is unmatched by even the most cleverly copied software. So it has never made sense to invest in cheap copies, when the original is readily available,” said Robert M. Ambrose, General Manager, OOISS. “As pioneering members of the Omani market, we also understand the importance of maintaining and encouraging the vibrancy of market activity. It is important to remember that IPR laws violation in one sector of the market can only encourage the spread of the menace into other areas. Therefore, it is important to set market examples of IPR protection.”

“Over the years, we have noted the changes brought about in the public perception of IPR through the campaigns organised by BSA. OOISS has supported these campaigns by ensuring total compliance to BSA’s Code of Ethics in its daily operations, as well encouraging awareness amongst the organisations employees,” said Noah N. G. Naidoo, Chief Executive Officer, Zubair Corporation. The event, which was attended by representatives of OOISS, the Zubair Corporation and BSA, marked a new milestone in BSA’s Antipiracy campaigns in Oman . It follows the signing of BSA Code of Ethics by Omani resellers and distributors in October 2003 and the January announcement by the Omani Ministry of Heritage and Culture that it will launch fresh initiatives in 2004 to support BSA’s IPR campaigns.

DUBAI POISED TO SERVICE IRAQ ’S HUGE AUTO AFTERMARKET NEEDS, SAYS DUBAI BUSINESSMAN

March 28, 2004

Dubai is set to play a pivotal role in servicing huge demand from within Iraq for automotive spare parts, according to leading Dubai businessman Abdul Rahman Falaknaz. Speaking at the opening of the biggest Automotive Aftermarket Middle East (AAME) trade show, which runs at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC) until Tuesday night (March 30), Falaknaz said demand was coming from Iraq ’s need to maintain and repair its ageing transport fleet. “Reconstruction in Iraq is providing huge business opportunities for the vehicle components and accessories industry, not only here in the UAE but also in those countries bordering the region, such as Turkey , Pakistan and India .

“There is a massive requirement for spare parts, components and accessories and once mandate and sanction issues have been clarified, demand from Iraq will increase substantially. After all, without reliable transport, reconstruction cannot take place. Dubai is ideally positioned to service this demand.”

AAME 2004 is the largest in the event’s nine-year history. It features over 200 exhibitors from 20 countries. China has the largest delegation, with 97 companies participating, followed by Taiwan , with 32 exhibitors and Turkey with 22. AAME is organised by International Expo-Consults, (IEC), for which Abdul Rahman Falaknaz is the Chairman. It was opened today by Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, President, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Al Tayer said Dubai ’s world class business infrastructure ensures the right economic climate for companies targeting the region’s rapidly expanding automotive sector. “ Dubai ’s liberal economic regulations provide a very flexible environment for companies to establish themselves in the region,” said Al Tayer. “ Dubai ’s status as the automotive aftermarket re-export centre for the Middle East is underlined by the 20% increase in the size of this year’s show.” IEC says Dubai ’s automotive aftermarket re-export trade is worth up to US $1 billion, with heavy demand from the wider North African market, particularly the vast and lucrative Libyan market.

TRAVEL AGENTS VISIT MUSCAT COURTESY OF RADISSON SAS AND OMAN AIR

 

Dubai , March 22, 2004 : Ten Dubai-based travel agents took a hosted familiarisation trip to Muscat in Oman recently.

 

Organised by Oman Air and Radisson SAS Hotels and Resorts, the idea behind the trip was to give the agents a better understanding of both brands’ unique variety of hospitality, as well as the flavours of Oman . The agents flew Oman Air to Muscat ’s Seeb International Airport , and after settling in at the luxurious hotel, took a city tour organised by local travel company, Zubair Tours in conjunction with Oman Air. On the second day of the trip the travel agents attended a presentation about Oman and had an in-house tour to explore the quality of the Radisson SAS Hotel, Muscat . Later in the afternoon they visited the exclusive Radisson SAS beach club and enjoyed the breeze of Muscat before packing and returning to the airport. The agents also enjoyed true Omani hospitality at Oman Air’s exclusive business class lounge at the Seeb Airport before boarding the flight back to Dubai .

Wassim Tarabay, Director of Sales GCC, Radisson SAS Hotels and Resorts, said: ”This trip has provided us with the perfect opportunity to explain our extraordinary ’Fresh Host and Easy’ hospitality concept with a ’Yes I Can’ service ethos and our world-famous 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, which ensures our guests remain delighted by experiencing service beyond comparison. Muscat, just 45 minutes flight from Dubai, serves as an excellent destination for a weekend break.” “The trip should make it easier for the agents to recommend and sell Radisson SAS and Oman Air at any opportunity. It also gave the travel agents a chance to meet each other and discuss general industry issues,” added Tarabay. The Radisson SAS property features 156 rooms, including 14 luxurious suites; an outdoor swimming pool and gardens, health club and fitness centre; a private beach club with exclusive transportation; all day dining; live entertainment and a fabulous lobby lounge. Sabreen Sabry, Country Manager – UAE, Oman Air said: ”From the Radisson SAS Hotel, Muscat, situated in the heart of the city's commercial and diplomatic area, Muscat’s ancient history, mountainous scenery and colourful souks can be explored. Coral reef scuba diving, dolphin watching, game fishing and historical tours of towns built by the ancient rulers are just some of the experiences awaiting you in Oman.”

“Due to more than 10,000 years of history, its location and easy access, Oman is becoming a regular weekend destination for UAE ex-pats. As most travel agents in the UAE take bookings for Oman , Oman Air and Radisson SAS felt it was necessary to show them Oman as a destination, and give them an opportunity to experience heart warming Omani hospitality.” “Oman Air offers excellent value added holiday packages to Muscat and other destinations in Oman, and operates up to seven flights a day from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Muscat, from early morning to late in the evening (check www.oman-air.com for timing and availability), Oman Air also operates direct flights from Dubai to Khasab and Salalah in Oman,” Sabry added.