- Emmigration authorites cancel passport of live passenger by Mistake
- IBM Introduces New PC Products
- World's Slimmest PC Monitor Showcased at Computer Shopper 2001
- EPSON to showcase Latest Prodcuts AT GITEX 2001
- Siemens Takes Abu Dhabi Oil Co EPC Contract
- Cervical Cancer SCreening is Failing to Control Diseas
- 106 Contestat Isle of Man Open Invitation Golf Tournament in Dubai
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry spearheads
e-government with launch of new portal- Unemployment, AIDS more important issues than racism in South Africa Economist survey
- Ericsson delivers first Mobitex system for Mobile Internet in China
Instead of cancelling the passport of a deadbody, Emigration Official cancels passport of accompanying Passenger
keralamonitor.com Thiruvananthapuram: In an interesting development, the valid passport and visa of a passenger has been mistakenly cancelled by the Emigration authorities in the Thiruvananthapuram airport. The unfortunate thing happened to A. Suresh Babu whose passport is cancelled by the Emigration Department Authorities of Thiruvananthapuram Airport by mistake yesterday morning. When somebody dies the passport is cancelled by the authorities.
The incident took place at the Thiruvananthapuram Airport, when Suresh Babu, who traveled by the Air India flight today morning ( October 12, 2001) from Muscat to Thiruvanathapuram accompanying the dead body of his friend Binu Kunjuraman who died in Muscat following a fatal road accident. The passenger gave his valid passport along with the dead person's passport to the airport authorities for making necessary entries. Instead of canceling the passport of the dead person (Binu Kunjuraman), the emigration authorities cancelled the valid passport of Suresh Babu. As a result Suresh Babu who is unable to come back to Muscat has sought immediate remedial action by the passport office or the emigration authorities. "All the documents were submitted to the officer and instead of cancelling the dead person's passport, four sides of my passport are cut," says Suresh.
It may be recalled that Suresh Babu has been running from pillar to post to get things cleared after his neighbour and friend Binu died in Sohar one week after he arrived in Oman for a job. The deceased had been in a state of coma for about four months before succumbing to his injuries a few days back.
Suresh wants to come back as early as possible to run his small business but since his passport is cancelled he is in a difficult position. Even if the Indian authorities do something to help him, it is not known whether the emigration authorities at the Seeb International Airport will allow him to enter Oman. The Indian Embassy should look into the matter.
Ericsson delivers first Mobitex system for Mobile Internet in China
keralamonitor.comEricsson and Chinese wireless operator Sky Networks Communication Group Co. Ltd. have signed a major contract for delivery of a Mobitex solution for Mobile Internet services.The new Mobitex network, initially capable of serving approximately 500,000 subscribers, will cover the capital of Beijing and north regions of China. This will make it the world's second largest Mobitex network for Mobile Internet services after the one operated by Cingular Interactive in the US. Commercial service is expected to begin early next year, with network build-out continuing throughout 2002.
Sky Networks Communication Group is the first operator to put a commercial Mobitex network into operation in the People's Republic of China, following the recent decision of China's Radio and Regulatory body to license the 800 MHz band for Mobitex. Mobitex is an ideal technology for such a densely populated city as Beijing," says Mr. Chen Yuanming, CEO of Sky Networks Communication Group Co. Ltd. "Mobitex's very efficient use of radio spectrum and high capacity and reliability, plus availability of a wide range of terminal products, allows us to bring wireless data and messaging to a large number of users quickly and cost-efficiently. More importantly, Mobitex technology is being advanced by Ericsson, which is a large and well- respected player in the Chinese market."
The Chinese Mobitex operator is initially focusing on Mobile Internet services for stock trading and messaging, as well as high-revenue vertical markets for remote control, such as point-of-sale, telemetry, logistics and public safety. Sky Networks will build a wireless data network using Mobitex technology to create an integrated information platform that includes the company's satellite network, high-capacity data center and call center.
"This is a very exciting development for Mobitex," says Jan Malm, President of Ericsson (China) Company Ltd. "With demand for all types of wireless communications growing more rapidly than anywhere else in the world, China offers an enormous market for Mobitex, and Ericsson is committed to help making Sky Networks new wireless data services a success."
IBM FLEXES TECHNOLOGY MUSCLE WITH NEW PC PRODUCTS
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New NetVista and ThinkPad machines combine's wireless and security technology -
Dubai October 11, 2001) - IBM today introduced new notebook and desktop computers with exclusive technologies that make it easier for businesses to link PCs with the rest of their e-business infrastructure.New IBM ThinkPads and NetVistas now boast innovative wireless and security features, and IBM-patented technology that dramatically reduces the costs associated with managing large numbers of personal computers.
New products and technology announced today include:Four new ThinkPad notebook and three new NetVista desktop models; · The industry's first embedded security subsystem that automatically encrypts user keys, files and e-mails;· Integrated wireless capabilities for 802.11 local area networking and Bluetooth technologies;· ImageUltra, a unique set of software and services that simplifies the management of PC images. Using ImageUltra, companies can save an estimated $100 per PC, per year, over the life of the system in support costs.
"In today's connected world, mobility, security and manageability are critical challenges for our customers, not just in the back office, but with the client devices their employees use everyday," said Sameh Farid, Regional Manager, IBM Personal Computer Division (PCD) Middle East, Egypt & Pakistan. "IBM has designed technologies that address these challenges into our other infrastructure products, and now we're extending them to PCs to deliver significant productivity and cost benefits to our customers worldwide and here in the Middle East."
"IBM continues to drive both in terms of innovation and manageability, with the new ThinkPad XTRA line offering important features such as integrated wireless connectivity and security as well as greater simplification of management solutions, allowing easy migration for end-users and IT Managers. In the area of industrial design, IBM has introduced the "nesting" concept with the new UltraBay Plus, allowing for an integrated numeric keypad or WorkPad cradle. Importantly, thin and light design normally reserved for higher price ranges - has been offered with the new R Series offering both style and mobility to end users at an entry level price point." said Andrew Brown, Research Manager for Mobile Computing at IDC.
A PC image is made up of the hardware and software loaded on a personal computer. Most large companies maintain many different PC images that represent a variety of hardware, operating systems, languages, network drivers and business applications. Each one of these separate "images" has to be developed, tested, managed, maintained, backed up, and documented -- all of which takes time and money. When this process is applied to thousands of individual PCs, it quickly becomes a costly and time-consuming problem that drains information technology resources and budgets.
Using patented software that comes loaded on the system's hard drive, IBM's ImageUltra can reduce the number of PC images from hundreds or thousands to a single "super-image" for all PCs in an enterprise network. IBM estimates this new technology and related services will save businesses an average of $100 per PC, per year over the life of the system, establishing a new benchmark for the PC industry in long-term affordability and manageability.
Wireless, Security and PC Services Today's announcement also represents the deployment of a number of investments IBM has made in the area of wireless, security and other PC-related services.IBM continues to integrate wireless LAN technology on its ThinkPad notebook computers. Select models now feature IBM's innovative dual antenna design, which was invented by IBM Research and provides significantly better signal strength coverage for optimal reception and transmission. Also, the newly redesigned ThinkPad A30p models offer integrated Bluetooth wireless communications providing even more wireless flexibility.
Many of the new systems come with enhanced security features. A growing concern for companies in a connected environment, IBM has addressed PC data security with its Embedded Security Subsystem that helps protect data from intrusion over both wireless and wired networks. It also helps identify computer users involved in transactions, and helps ensure data transmissions are authentic, confidential, and intact. IBM's security subsystem can also encrypt data on the PC's hard drive, so that even if the computer is stolen, the information can not be accessed. This security subsystem is designed to work seamlessly with Tivoli Policy Director software to enable centralized security management.
World's Slimmest PC Monitor Showcased at Computer Shopper 2001
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Dubai: 11th October 2001 - Philips Consumer Electronics announced that it will showcase for the first time in the Middle East the world's slimmest LCD monitor with embedded power supply at the Computer Shopper beginning this Saturday. The 15-inch high resolution monitors, which has set a new standard in PC monitor depth by measuring at a mere 61mm, will be available for sale through various dealers at the Computer Shopper, as well as being demonstrated at the Alpha Data and Al Masa stands at the main Gitex exhibition.
These Next Generation LCD monitors, known as the 150B2 & 150P2 models, have been designed with the power supply embedded right into the panel body to ensure hassle-free installation and connection. This facilitates mounting the monitors and avoiding the problem of power supplies underfoot. They also have a unique feature in common - interchangeable bases- that enable a standard monitor to be transformed to a full Multimedia unit with a powerful sound, and tilted 90 degrees to a portrait rather than landscape format. The 150P2 model also features extra wide view angle along with the new generation Digital interface.
"The Computer Shopper is an excellent launch-pad for the world's slimmest monitor," commented Olivier Delahaye, General Manager at Philips Middle East and Africa. "We expect it to be a big hit with both corporate and home customers at the Shopper." "With the new slim look, the new monitors are sure to save desk space and add an elegant touch that gives customers the right impression. But they are not just about looks. The high resolution display and the embedded power supply make them a practical solution for all companies requiring premium technology and design."
A proven reputation for technical innovation, groundbreaking features and great performance have made Philips Monitors one of the world's top manufacturers of computer display devices. With each model representing the smallest footprint in its class, Philips is the industry leader in space-saving display. In the rapidly expanding LCD field, Philips has emerged as the international leader in the LCD monitor arena delivering styles, screen sizes and options that meet the needs of professional, corporate and home users.
CENTRAL ASIA FOCUSES ON MICRONUTRIENT ALNUTRITION
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10 October , 2001
SIEMENS LLC Takes Abu Dhabi Oil Co EPC Contract
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Abu Dhabi ADCO (Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations) has awarded Siemens LLC the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract to design and build the electrical power skids for water Injection clusters at Bu Hasa oil field. The contract award, announced by Siemens LLC, the regional arm of the global conglomerate, is a further sign of the success that the oil and gas division of the Siemens Industrial Solutions and Services Group has secured in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The 22 month, multi-million dollar EPC contract covers the replacement of all existing and ageing electrical power skids for the water injection clusters at Bu Hasa with state-of-the-art power supply systems. These are designed to increase reliability, eliminate shutdowns and minimise high maintenance costs by feeding the surface pump and submersible pump motors.
The ADCO-operated Bu Hasa oil field and its gas/oil separation plant are approximately 200km southwest of Abu Dhabi city. The Bu Hasa Water Injection System - water injected into the Bu Hasa reservoir to maintain oil production - is supplied by a network of individual water injection clusters, each with a dedicated power skid supplying power to high voltage electrically driven submersible and surface pumps.
"Around 60 - 70 per cent of the total scope of the project is Siemens' own field proven equipment, systems and technologies," explained Habib Braham, Business Unit Manager of the Siemens Industrial Solutions - Oil and Gas division. "That majority reflects our core competence as E-EPC (electrical and control systems EPC contractor) as well as our systems/solutions experience and innovation, which we have developed for the oil and gas industry, especially for the region. "We now have a full fledged team with both global and local capabilities required for successful engineering and management of such projects."
Siemens says it took the contract in the face of strong global competition. "This was one of the most fiercely competed projects in its field here, more so because we were competing with both international companies and directly with local organisations," said Joachim Kundt, CEO of Siemens LLC."Our competitive edge came in being able to combine the global Siemens quality and technology with the local ground resources and expertise of Siemens LLC, our own regional organisation. For us, this contract builds on the relationship established with ADCO through previous projects and is another confirmation of the advantages of having a regional organisation."
EPSON to showcase Latest Prodcuts AT GITEX 2001
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Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11 October 2001 - EPSON (UK) Ltd., the leading manufacturer of imaging technology products, will be showcasing its new, exciting and innovative products at the region's foremost Information Technology exhibition, Gitex 2001.
This year, EPSON lives up to its innovative reputation with its brand new, totally unique, cutting edge EPSON PRINT Image MatchingÔ technology. Developed by SEIKO EPSON Corporation and leading digital camera vendors, PRINT Image MatchingÔ Technology links the Digital Still Camera and the PC printer, giving the camera control over printing, with data usually lost in the process being passed right through to the prints. The results are stunningly sharp detail and spectacular colours and tones that are closer than ever to real life! This new technology is offered on its new PRINT Image Matching enabled digital camera, the EPSON PhotoPC 3100Z, and its new, similarly enabled photo printers, such as the EPSON Stylus Photo 895 and the EPSON Stylus Photo 810. Digital Camera vendors introducing EPSON PRINT Image Matching enabled digital cameras include Nikon, Olympus, Sanyo, Minolta, Konica, Ricoh, Toshiba, Pentax, Sony and Casio. EPSON will be demonstrating the beauty and ease of PRINT Image Matching on its stand during the show and this new technology, on display along with a range of the latest photo printers, are proof of EPSON's leading position in the photo printer market.
Also on show will be EPSON's latest home / small office inkjet printers. This year sees the launch of a new generation, including the superb, affordable first time user EPSON Stylus C20 and Stylus C40 inkjets and the innovative high quality Stylus C60 and Stylus C70. The EPSON Stylus C80 will be the center of attention on stand. This new home office and small office inkjet printer is incredibly fast - printing at up to 20 pages per minute black, and 13 pages per minute colour. Accompanying all of these products - EPSON's extensive range of consumables and options to suit every requirement.
CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING IS FAILING TO CONTROL DISEASE IN MANY DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, RESEARCHERS
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Many developing countries clearly need to strengthen their capacity to diagnose and treat early forms of cervical cancer, according to researchers writing in the latest issue of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization.While some developing countries in Latin America and Asia have introduced screening over the last 30 years, "generally they have achieved very limited success in controlling cervical cancer in those regions", the researchers say.
"Although some cytological screening is being carried out, there are no
organized programmes and testing is often of poor quality and carried out
inadequately and inefficiently among the population. As a result, there
has been a very limited impact on the incidence of cervical cancer,
despite large numbers of cytological smears taken in some countries".
Cervical cancer incidence and mortality have fallen substantially in
recent years in the industrialized world, arguably as the result of
efficient screening programmes involving a cervical smear test, which can
detect precursors and early forms of cervical cancer. But at least 8 out
of every 10 of the global total of 231 000 deaths a year occur in
developing countries, where the disease remains largely uncontrolled.
Screening involves substantial costs and many poor countries cannot afford
screening programmes of any sort. According to the study, there are no
organized cervical cancer screening programmes in many Latin American
countries, any of the high-risk sub-Saharan countries, or in India, which
accounts for one fifth of the global burden of the disease. Countries with
limited health care resources cannot afford to screen frequently a wide
age range of women, the authors say.
Low-income countries should consider planned investments to improve
capacity to diagnose and treat cervical cancer precursors and early
invasive cancers in their health services before considering even limited
screening programmes. On the other hand, middle-income countries with inefficient programmes should reorganize them, the study recommends. Many of these programmes work with the "unrealistic notion" of very frequently repeated screening tests - once a year - that target a wide age range (e.g. 20-65 years) of women.
"It is more realistic and effective to target high-risk women (e.g. 35-49
years or 30-50 years) with a good quality and highly sensitive test once
or twice in their lifetime, " the study says. Even a once-in-a-lifetime
test can yield a reduction of 25-30% in incidence.
The authors are Dr Rengaswamy Sankaranarayanan, scientist at the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, in Lyon, France; Mr Atul
Madhukar Budukh, manager of the cervical cancer prevention programme at
the Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Hospital, in Barshi, Maharashtra, India;
and Dr Rajamanickam Rajkumar, medical officer at the Christian Fellowship
Community Health Centre, Ambillikai, Tamil Nadu, India.
106 CONTEST ISLE OF MAN OPEN INVITATION GOLF TOURNAMENT IN DUBAI
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Dubai: A field of 106 golfers contested the 'Isle of Man Open Invitation' golf tournament staged at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on Tuesday (October 9).The 18-hole Texas Scramble competition was staged by the Isle of Man Government in association with Allied Irish Offshore, the offshore division of Ireland's largest banking and financial group.
The winners of the tournament were Fadi Mehio, Ghaleb Farha, George
Khairallah and Joseph Ghossoub. They were each presented with limited
edition solid gold coins, weighing 3.25 grms, minted by the Isle of Man
Government. Veteran British comedian and long-standing Isle of Man
resident Sir Norman Wisdom made the presentations. Sir Norman, 86, is
accompanying a VIP Isle of Man business delegation currently visiting the
United Arab Emirates.Runners up in the event were S.B. Han, Mego Han, Ashok Kumar and Rhea Nair. They each received engraved Isle of Man Sword of State paper knives from Sir Norman. In third place was the team of Saeed Malik, Rashid Al Mazroei, Khalid Mubarak and Andy Andrews. Sir Norman presented them with Isle of Man paperweights.
Allied Irish Offshore golf bags went to Gary Jones, for the shot nearest to the pin and to John Fellingham for the longest drive.Among the golfers taking part were Isle of Man Government Chief Minister the Honourable Donald J Gelling, Sean Dowling, Managing Director of Allied Irish Offshore and Colin Morehead, the company's Business Development Manager.
"The tournament was a great success and everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable round of golf. I was very impressed by the Creek golf course and its facilities," Chief Minister Gelling said.
MMI Technology Solutions enters Sudan market, implements Sage ERP for Sayga and Coca-Cola Bottling Plant
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MMI Technology Solutions (MMITS), a division of the Maritime and Mercantile International, has made a foray into the Sudan technology market by supplying and implementing business management software for the Dal Group. MMITS has been appointed to implement Sage CS3 (finance, distribution and manufacturing) software at Sayga Flour Mills and Dal Food Industries Coca-Cola.
The Khartoum based Dal Group comprises of four companies, and has successfully completed implementation of Sage CS3 at Sayga Flour Mills. MMITS has consequently been invited to implement it at Dal Food Industries Coca-Cola. This is the first time that MMITS, Sage's Enterprise Partner in the UAE, have extended their services beyond the GCC region.
Premchand Kurup, Manager, MMI Technology Solutions, accredits the company's unprecedented success to two core elements: "Our entry into the Sudan market proves that if you have a highly proficient implementation track record within the UAE, no market is inaccessible. The product functionality of Sage, its ease of deployment and the Sage Group's financial strength and stability make it an attractive investment for many businesses. Secondly, the functional competence of our consultants and our process-oriented implementation methodology have held us in good stead," said Kurup, as he explained the commendable market entry. Sudan is the largest country in Africa, and the stable currency exchange and attractive investment laws continue to drive foreign capital into the country.
Sayga Flour Mills is a manufacturer and distributor of flour throughout Sudan, and the implementation of Sage CS3 has already improved the company's inventory accuracy, process automation, and maximised easy access to information. Ihab Latif, General Manager of Sayga, confirms that, "Sage is a competent product that satisfies most of our company's requirements. It is particularly attractive to us because it can be expanded at ease, and integrated with various other software that are compatible to Sage."
"The MMI implementation was very well executed, and we are very satisfied with both, their services and the software's performance. While we will not hesitate to recommend MMI Technology Solutions to other companies in Sudan, we have already introduced them to our own group company, Dal Food Industries Coca-Cola," Latif added.
Motasim Latif, Managing Director of Dal Food Industries Coca-Cola, stated that the company, which will start operations in November, is the only Coca-Cola bottling plant based in Sudan. "We have seen the results of MMI's implementation at Sayga, and understand only too well the benefits that can be accrued from this implementation," he stated. "Sage CS3 will benefit our organisation greatly in manufacturing and inventory planning, and we are pleased to have MMI spearheading this project for us."
Meanwhile, Anish Kanaran, Business Development Executive, MMI Technology Solutions explains how the Dubai-based MMITS manages the Sudan market. "We have a channel partner based in Sudan, who is geared to address all pre-sales requirements. We are currently in the process of training and coaching our channel partner for all further prospects," he explained. "The Sudan market has a lot of growth potential and we foresee a bright future for software needs in the country." added Kanaran.
MMI Technology Solutions (MMITS) was founded in 2000, and is the most recent business in the MMI group's portfolio. Created to address customers' needs for an integrated web-enabled business management software solution, MMITS offers value through technology, by its ongoing commitment to quality implementation, third party software integration, consulting, and assured help desk support. MMITS' product portfolio includes Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Supply Chain Management (SCM), Field Service Management (FSM) and Retail & Point-of-Sale Solutions (POS).
Aggreko signs contract for 2002 FIFA World Cup
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Aggreko, the international group specialising in the supply of temporary power, temperature control and oil-free compressed air, has signed a contract with the Japan Organising Committee for the 2002 FIFA World Cup (JAWOC), to be the sole supplier of temporary electrical power generation and distribution for the world cup venues in Japan. The 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan, the single largest sporting event in the world, will be jointly hosted by Korea and Japan.
Describing the nature of the contract, Aggreko Chairman, Dr, Chris Masters, explained that there are 10 venues in Japan scheduled to host the concluding matches for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. To ensure that the matches will be televised without interruption to the global audience each venue will be provided with simultaneous and reliable broadcasting power for the entire duration of the month long event.
"Aggreko has been working on the project for many months, discussing the technical design and strategy with the event organisers, JAWOC, their electrical consultants MyEnergy and HBS (Host Broadcast Services), the dedicated host broadcaster of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. We are proud to have been selected as the sole supplier of broadcast power for the world's largest and most keenly awaited televised sporting event," he stated. The final games of the competition will be held from May 31 to June 30, 2002.
At each venue, Aggreko will supply a comprehensive package of generators, bundled fuel tanks and complete electrical power distribution systems up to and including the camera and commentary positions. Aggreko will also be providing a full team of engineers and project managers to ensure flawless operation at each venue during the event. In total over 15 MW of power will be installed and delivered at various voltages to meet the requirements of different types of broadcast equipment.
As part of the service, Aggreko will provide over 300 items of high quality, specialised distribution equipment that is used exclusively to service major events such as the 2002 FIFA World Cup. In addition, over 100 km of cable will be supplied to facilitate the complete distribution of power. "Aggreko has a tremendous track record of providing power services for global sporting events including the Olympics in Barcelona (1992), Atlanta (1996) and Sydney (2000). Aggreko also provided temporary power systems for the Euro 2000 football championships hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium, and our performance there was a key factor in securing the contract for the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan. Our experience of designing and managing projects of this stature makes Aggreko the natural choice for event organisers," stated Masters.
"To further endorse this, Aggreko has been contracted by the Salt Lake Organising Committee to supply the entire secondary electrical power generation and distribution needs for the Olympic and Para-Olympic Winter Games 2002," he stated. The 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea /Japan will be the first FIFA World Cup to be held in Asia and to be co-hosted by two nations. The Fédération Internationale de Football Association has 204 members from every part of the world.
HILTON DUBAI CREEK CELEBRATES ITS OFFICIAL OPENING
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Dubai, October 10, 2001: The latest property in the Hilton International portfolio, the Hilton Dubai Creek, celebrated their grand opening today, as those involved in the conception and construction of the lifestyle hotel flew to Dubai from all corners of the globe.Joining representatives from the hotel's owners, Arenco Real Estate, were the hotel's management from Hilton International, architect Carlos Ott and Gordon Ramsay, the chef behind the hotel's already popular restaurant - Verre.
The modern, five-star, lifestyle hotel has ushered in a new era of hospitality to the Middle East, offering an intimate, highly personalised style of service. Guests experience an environment that is contemporary but has an understated elegance throughout.
Guy Hutchinson, manager, Hilton Dubai Creek, said: "We are delighted with how the hotel has been received by the public so far. We wanted to offer something completely different for the Dubai market - a small, discreet hotel in contemporary surroundings - and believe people have really taken to the concept."
The interior and exterior of the property was designed by the award-winning architect, Carlos Ott, together with Arenco Architects and Engineering Consultants, one of the leading consultants in the region. Owned by Abdullah Al Moosa, Arenco Real Estate approached Ott with a brief to create a modern and minimalist property to blend in with the vision of Dubai as a modern and emerging metropolis.Sanjeev Ghulati, Arenco Architects said: "The owners felt Dubai was bursting with contemporary hotels full of carpets and plush fabrics, and that we should create a building that was more in keeping with the European themes of minimalism and modernity. They wanted something that was more suitable for the corporate sector, especially young executives on the move."
Arenco Interior Architects, further enhanced Ott's design concept by carrying out design development, which is considered to be the backbone of a successfully executed project. Arenco's Engineering Team also carried out the project management, design and development of the engineering, whithout which, the hotel could not efficiently function.
"The project took almost 24 months from design to completion and, we believe, has been well accepted by the local population, and its landmark design of the glass staircase has received rave reviews," added Ghulati.
Once Ott had created the concepts, he worked with Arenco Interior Design Office to see those concepts turned into reality. "The design development forms the foundations of a property, and the team worked on everything from establishing how to fix the glass floor and ceilings to choosing exactly which types of granite to combine," said Robin Thessman of Arenco Interiors.
One of the high points of the 154-room hotel is the cuisine, and international chef Gordon Ramsay has been contracted to manage the cuisine in the hotel. Ramsay has hand-picked members of his London brigade, who will in turn oversee every aspect of catering in the lifestyle property, from the signature restaurant, through the other outlets including the Glasshouse Brasserie, Issimo and Carbon Lounge.
The chef has personally overseen every detail of the development, from concept to launch. He has tasted every sauce and finalised every ingredient, and will be making frequent trips to Dubai to play a hands-on role in the direction of the kitchens.
Ramsay said: "Verre is my first restaurant outside the UK and represents a huge challenge - but a thoroughly enjoyable one. There is a real buzz about Dubai at the moment, and I am proud to be a part of it. In my mind, Dubai is one of the most vibrant cities around."
The chef's signature restaurant in London, Gordon Ramsay, has three Michelin stars - the highest award from the guide - and the Dubai public has leapt on the chance to sample cooking from one of the finest chefs in the world. "When I saw the plans for the Hilton Dubai Creek, I immediately felt that this was the right place to have my first restaurant outside Britain. I hope people in Dubai will appreciate the fine-dining experience and what I am trying to achieve."
The opening of the Hilton Dubai Creek marks a continued period of expansion and commitment to the region for Hilton International. Guy Epsom, the company's regional director of sales and marketing for the Arabian Peninsula, said: "This is a very exciting time for Hilton International worldwide, and especially in the Gulf.
"With business and leisure traffic to the Gulf scheduled to increase at a rapid pace, we aim to provide luxurious hotels offering the highest service and quality that are synonymous with the Hilton brand."The Hotel is located in the Dubai Creek business district and consists of 154 rooms and suites, each combining contemporary design with the highest levels of comfort and offering dramatic Creek views. The newly expanded Dubai International Airport and world-class leisure venues such as the Creek Golf Course are all located nearby.
Online Marketplace
Tejari Integrates with Microsoft for End-to-End Procurement
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Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 10, 2001: Tejari.com, the region's premier business-to-business marketplace, today announced that it has completed a leading-edge integration project with IT giant Microsoft that links the marketplace directly to the back-office systems of its member, The Maritime and Mercantile International group (MMI). Utilizing Microsoft's BizTalk solution as a connectivity tool, MMI's internal Sage order management system is now fully integrated with Tejari, enabling MMI's buyers to place orders online through the marketplace.
Bahram Mohazzebi, General Manager, Microsoft Gulf and Eastern Mediterranean, with Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Managing Director of Tejari.com displaying BizTalk Server 2000.
The business benefits that Tejari members can now receive through this integration functionality are significant. In MMI's case, the trading leader's clients from the hospitality and retail sectors can connect directly into MMI's ordering process, raising automated purchase orders that are sent online through Tejari. This level of supplier connectivity speeds up the buying cycle while reducing the need for double entries in MMI's procurement system, also minimizing the risk of human error.
"Developing MMI's e-commerce capabilities has been one of our primary objectives over the last year, and fully integrating our ERP system with Tejari is a fundamental component of that online strategy. One of the key reasons that MMI joined Tejari was to streamline the sales and fulfillment side of our business, so the completion of this integration project with the marketplace is a significant advantage for MMI," noted Mark Rogers, Manager of Business Communication,MMI.
Microsoft has taken the lead in acting as the integration specialist for Tejari's members as they plan to link various back-office functions with the marketplace. Now that "proof-of-concept" has been demonstrated with MMI, Microsoft will provide integration services to Tejari's members both regionally and internationally."Integration between different technology platforms is one of the major benefits that Microsoft offers its enterprise customers in the Middle East, and our partnership with Tejari further strengthens Microsoft's leadership in this area. Microsoft's technology platform, including BizTalk Server 2000, embraces industry-standard Internet technologies such as XML which enable seamless integration between disparate systems. This integration will offer tremendous benefits for Tejari members," continued Bahram Mohazzebi, General Manager of Microsoft Gulf and Eastern Mediterranean.
For Tejari, the new integration component now available to its members adds significantly to the value offered by the marketplace. Members can reduce their procurement costs even further by linking their own accounting and ordering procedures directly to Tejari, cutting down on paperwork and administrative resources. As a technology-neutral marketplace, Tejari can now also link directly to Internet procurement solutions and other applications that its members already have in place, enabling greater return on IT investment. A number of Tejari members, including Dubai Ports Authority and Dubai Duty Free, are engaged in integration projects with the marketplace.
FEDEX OFFERS EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS 40% DISCOUNT AT GITEX 2001
Special offer on all packages dropped off at FedEx WSC in Exhibition Hall 3 at DWTCkeralamonitor.com
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 10 October 2001 - FedEx Express (FedEx), the world's largest express transportation company, has announced that it will be offering all GITEX 2001 exhibitors and visitors convenient on-site shipping solutions at a discounted rate. Throughout the whole week of the exhibition which starts on October 14, 2001, FedEx will be offering exhibitors and visitors a 40% discount on UAE cash list rates on all international express shipments dropped off at the FedEx World Service Center®, conveniently located in Exhibition Hall 3 at the Dubai World Trade Center.
"GITEX is the leading Information Technology exhibition in the Middle East, and with FedEx being on location, we aim to help our customers experience a successful event by meeting all their shipping requirements with our world-class services and competitive rates," said Hamdi Osman, Vice President FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Sub-Sahara Africa. "The Information Technology industry leaders require a comprehensive portfolio of services that meet their fast-cycle needs and help them meet their key customer deliverables. FedEx' role at GITEX is to provide shipping solutions that work at their pace."
Services available to participants at GITEX, include the FedExâ 10kg Box and FedExâ 25kg Box that offer customers flat-rate, low pricing, customs-cleared, door-to-door delivery and easy-to-use packaging. The FedExâ 10kg Box and FedExâ 25kg Box can be shipped to 211 countries around the world within 24 - 48 hours. Customers can take advantage of the flat rate for weights up to 10 kilograms and 25 kilograms for each box. An increment per additional kilo is added for weights in excess of these limits. FedEx Offers Exhibitors and Visitors 40% Discount at Gitex 2001
"We expect the FedExâ 10kg Box and FedExâ 25kg Box to be in great demand during GITEX, as they are versatile, good value for money, easy to assemble, ready in seconds without the need for tape, string or scissors," added Osman. "This makes them ideal shipping solutions at a time when practicality and convenience are key objectives."
MARKS & SPENCER TO LAUNCH per una RANGE BY TOP UK DESIGNER
Dubai chosen as one of only eight international locations for the new collection from the high-street fashion guru who created NEXT
One of the stylish outfits from the new per una collection, to be launched at Marks & Spencer, Dubai, on October 17, 2001 keralamonitor.com Dubai: October 9, 2001: Marks & Spencer in Dubai has been chosen as one of only eight stores outside the UK for the launch of per una, the brainchild of design guru George Davies, the creator of NEXT and George at Asda.The clothing range is aimed at the fashion-conscious woman who defines herself by attitude, not age, and was launched into 50 selected stores in the UK on September 28, 2001. It will be rolled out at eight prestigious locations around the world, with Dubai leading the way on October 17.
George Davies, the man behind the collection, is returning to the high street after a decade at the British supermarket giant Asda. per una, meaning 'for one woman', is his creation - and he is designer and manufacturer of the brand, which has been exclusively signed up by Marks & Spencer. The agreement enables Marks & Spencer to offer contemporary and classic fashions, providing every customer the look they prefer with great value and quality products.Davies sold his range, George at Asda, to Walmart, the US superstore company, in November 2000, leaving him free to create per una. "I am a long-term admirer of Marks & Spencer and the quality of its products," he said.
Davies added: "Because I have personal control of every aspect of per una, I have been able to make sure it embodies every principle I believe in and everything I have learned in my career in fashion. per una features the highest quality materials, limited-edition designs inspired by the very latest trends, and fanatical attention to detail."
Clothes have been designed to flatter every figure and size, so a garment in size eight to 10 is cut differently to the same style of item in sizes 16 to 18. While clothes in the per una range may not be identical throughout all sizes, they offer every wearer a tailored and distinct look.As part of this attention to detail, the per una range will be displayed at Marks & Spencer by collection but with the sizes separated, enabling customers to select clothes at a glance.
The first per una collection will include chic tailoring, cool casuals and funky sports clothing plus comfortable and easy nightwear.Marks & Spencer is a franchise operation of Al-Futtaim Sons in the Gulf. Al-Futtaim Sons holds the franchise rights for Marks & Spencer in the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Oman.
Abubakr Al Futtaim, Marketing Director of Al-Futtaim Sons, said: "We are delighted that Dubai has been chosen as one of the few international locations for the launch of per una, which shows the importance of Dubai as a market for fashion globally. We are also confident that the Dubai customer, who is both fashion and value conscious, will receive the new range extremely well."Jim McCallum, Retail Director, Al-Futtaim Sons, said: "George Davies has an outstanding track record in fashion clothing, having created two successful businesses. As chief executive of per una, he will break new ground with products that are hugely desirable and a supply chain that is extremely responsive."
Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry spearheads
e-government with launch of new portalkeralamonitor.com
Dubai, October 8, 2001: In response to the strategic e-government initiative announced last year by His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister, Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has created one of Dubai's first -government services. Based on the Microsoft platform the new portal has been realized by DiverseInc., in collaboration with Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS), and can be accessed at the URL prompt of http://www.dcci.gov.ae/.
The new portal offers a range of online services which will enable the Chamber to serve its over 60,000 members faster and more efficiently. These include the online submission of applications for essential documents by exporters such as Certificates of Origin. Mr. Khalid Al Kassim, Director of IT at DCCI, said that full implementation of the e-government initiative announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed was imperative for Dubai to continue to thrive economically.
"As the apex body governing business and commercial activity in Dubai, DCCI is committed to provide its members with services that are aimed at enhancing their productivity and efficiency levels. We are proud to be one of the first government departments to implement a robust e-government initiative aligned with the e-government committee's framework."
"It is important to differentiate that with the new portal we haven't just launched a website but we have gone several steps further by offering our members value-added online services. Furthermore the online services are seamlessly integrated with DCCI's back-end systems, which will continue to be crucial for all current and future service offerings."
Other innovative online services offered to the Chamber's members include booking of conference rooms at DCCI premises and proposing or registering both DCCI sponsored events and regional and international events. The portal, which has links to other e-government websites, includes an online shopping mall where members can shop online for various articles including publications about the UAE. Another key feature of the new portal is an extensive business directory equipped with a powerful search engine that enables visitors to search and access business-specific information about DCCI member companies.
The technology platform for the DCCI portal includes Microsoft's Windows 2000 Advanced Server, Microsoft Commerce Server 2000 and Microsoft SQL Server 2000. The solution has been developed using Microsoft Visual Studio and Windows 2000 COM+ services and takes advantage of the extensive multilingual and multicultural support provided by Microsoft Commerce Server 2000.
"Microsoft's technology provides the backbone for the portal both on the front-end service offerings side as well as the seamless integration with our existing systems. Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) played a key role in mapping our business objectives with technological requirements for the portal and recommended and executed an effective development and deployment plan together with their partner DiverseInc." added Al Kassim.
According to Dr. Gianni Zorzino, Architectural Consultant for Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS), one of the highlights of the project was the creation of a back-end intranet solution to provide seamless content management for the public website and to provide state-of-the-art digital dashboard functionality to DCCI employees.
"The Intranet portal for DCCI employees has been designed to efficiently address online requests as well as manage the dynamic content of the Internet portal. The solution we created offers breakthrough functionality in both Arabic and English and is integrated with the existing Windows 2000 Active Directory for both authentication and personalization. Departments can access and manage the portal sections, based on their area of competence and the workload is automatically distributed."Mr. Abdullatif Al Mulla, Country Manager UAE, Oman & Yemen for Microsoft GEM, added: "DCCI's web-initiative is yet another example of Dubai government's resolve to implement a comprehensive e-government initiative that provides more centralized and efficient services to government bodies, businesses and residents."
