Residential Communities: Creative & Innovative Solution 85 Real Estate Funds with over 25 Billion Riyals of Assets supports the Real Estate Market

Posted on August 24, 2014 by مشرف

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Many people take the initiative to provide insight, analysis – and perhaps sometimes solutions to the housing dilemma in the Kingdom, comparing the number of solutions proposed by the government in a number of laws, regulations and the projects offered by the Ministry of Housing. And between proponents and opponents to any of these laws or solutions, the problem remains, leaving room for more opinions and analysis.

This coincides with the psychological impact on the dealers with this market, while optimists release statements as «Real Estate gets sick but don’t die», and pessimists expect that the market is on the verge of «snowball» and may be difficult to stop it as no one knows its direction, and others believe that «the real estate bubble» began to take shape as the one that hit the neighboring countries.

Are there any illness symptoms in the real estate and housing market, specifically in the kingdom? Is the high frequency debate, speculations and statements from here and there can give a realistic and objective indicators to diagnose the reality of the real estate and housing and anticipate their future?

The presence of active and influential factors in the marketas the high prices, scarcity of land, the large gap between supply and demand, real estate finance, and the delay of projects carried by the Ministry of Housing, all can be positive or negative indicators depending on the perceiver. But all the parties in the industry have to find innovative and appropriate environment for housing, and to find wise and deep processors so that none will be affected.

“Residential communities” is one of the innovative solutions that offer clients and investors the real opportunity for living and investment in an outstanding manner. Also it combines the privacy, sophistication and luxury which is favored by seekers of housing in major cities. Burj Rafal community is considered unique model; merging majesty, luxury and integration of services with variety of spaces that meet the needs of its inhabitance.

Mr. Majed Al Hogail, Managing Director, Rafal Real Estate Development Co., said “The activity led by real estate development companies in the market is a positive phenomenon, through the creation of products and living style available for numerous categories in the society searching for excellence. And the mortgage programs that will handle part of that problem will be a positive factor, but it is not the only solution.

AL Hogail added, “Positive Synergy must be reached between The private sector, real estate development companies and institutions and the programs suggested by the governmental sector that aims with the relevant authorities to provide effective long and short-term housing solutions “.

AL Hogail pointed out, “The real estate market in the Kingdom expected to witness during the next five years an increase in real estate activity. Where the 8th Development Plan indicates a growth in the real estate activity at an annual average rate of 5.8%, and an increase in GDP contribution “.

A report issued by the Capital Market Authority for the second half of 2013, shows that the number of real estate funds (public and private offering) operating in the Kingdom reached 85 real estate funds, and their total assets valued at 25.5 billion riyals by the end of 2013, with 6582 subscribers.”

All Public real estate funds achieved a positive performance during the year, with an average performance 13.6%, where «Riyadh Bank Real Estate Fund – Burj Rafal Tower» was one of the top performers in 2013 valued at 47%.

 

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Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel, Introduces a Delicious New Menu at La Cucina

Posted on August 24, 2014 by مشرف

La Cucina Restaurant 2

Al Faisaliah Hotel’s top-rated Italian restaurant, La Cucina, has revealed a delectable new menu, presented by the recently appointed Chef de Cuisine Nicola Russo.

A native Italian, Chef Nicola has captured authentic Tuscan flavours found in kitchens of picturesque village cottages across Tuscany and brought it to Al Faisaliah. Transforming the menu, Chef Nicola’s modern twists to classic Tuscan food has resulted in an array of exceptional dishes.

Alex Pichel, Managing Director, Al Faisaliah Hotel, said, “Chef Nicola Russo is a highly experienced chef who has picked up impressive techniques from his years working across the globe. His unique take on classic Italian dishes are remarkable, and we are exceptionally pleased that he has joined our culinary team and we look forward to welcoming guests to sample delights from this new menu.”

Chef Nicola’s menu features classic dishes such as the delicious, crisp caprese made from fresh basil leaves, juicy tomatoes and creamy buffalo mozzarella, whilst twists include the Uovo *64, an organic slow cooked egg served with crunchy green and white asparagus spears and porcini mushrooms.

New items on the menu include Paccheri, which is an lavish dish made with tube shape pasta, in a delectable eggplant and cherry tomato sauce served with rich burrata cheese, and the Trancio di salmon, a slow cooked salmon fillet served with a potato fondant and crunchy asparagus spears drizzled with basil oil.

Commenting on the occasion, Nicola Russo, Chef de Cuisine, La Cucina said, “As a chef who has traveled the world, I am very pleased to bring my global experience to bear at Al Faisaliah Hotel and I am honoured to present my new menu, playing on traditional Tuscan flavours.”

Chef Nicola brings with him more than ten years’ experience from all corners of the globe including Italy and the UK. Trained in Italy and Certified by Academy “Les Amies de Cordon Bleu” Russo has worked in many Michelin star restaurants, including Alloro Restaurant in London, UK.

To taste the delicious dishes presented on the brand new menu make a reservation by calling +966 11 273 2222 or email alfaisaliah@rosewoodhotels.com.

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Marriott International and Etihad Airways to offer customers greater rewards Redeem Marriott Rewards® and Etihad Guest Miles for instant travel gratification

Posted on August 24, 2014 by مشرف

Courtyard Riyadh

Marriott International’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards®, just got better. By joining forces with Etihad Airways’ loyalty program, Etihad Guest, customers can now redeem their Marriott Rewards® Points for Etihad Guest Miles, as well as choosing to earn Etihad Guest Miles for all stays at Marriott properties worldwide.

The partnership is a great way for travelers to enjoy immediate awards and instant gratification when booking a hotel stay or flight resulting in a free vacation. In addition, the collaboration enables customers to redeem their points against group travel, making stays with friends, family or colleagues that bit easier and more cost effective.

Commenting on the partnership Neal Jones, Chief Sales and Marketing Office, Marriott International Middle East and Africa said: “Marriott Rewards® and Etihad Guest are committed to opening up travel experiences and this partnership is testament to that promise. Etihad Airways is an airline renowned for its Arabian hospitality; one that is cultured, considerate, warm and generous – a brand that shares Marriott International’s dedication to superior hospitality. In addition, our rewards program is designed to award customers for their loyalty by providing them with access to free vacations no matter where they choose to travel.”

“This new partnership is great for Marriott guests everywhere – giving them the flexibility to earn Etihad Guest miles from their stays and subsequently spend these miles on flights with Etihad Airways or one of the many other Etihad Guest airline partners, or spend them on the Etihad Guest RewardShop for one of thousands of products” said Barry Green, Managing Director, Etihad Guest. “They can also choose to transfer their miles to cash, to spend at any one of 30 million outlets worldwide, using the Etihad Guest exclusive feature – PointsPay”.

Both Marriott International and Etihad Airways have a vast global footprint helping ensure individuals and families can travel with ease. With more than 4,000 properties, and more than 690,000 rooms in 78 countries and territories, Marriott promises a home-away from home where you go. In addition, regional travelers can benefit from the hoteliers extensive Middle East and Africa reach with 161 properties across 18 countries (MEA) offering a total of 23,701 rooms spanning 8 brands; JW Marriott, Marriott Hotels, Renaissance Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Residence Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Marriott Executive Apartments and Protea Hotels.

Coupled with Etihad Airways’ network of passenger destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas, travelers now have greater access to a number of destinations both locally and globally.

Effective immediately, Marriott Rewards members who designate Etihad Guest as their earning preference will receive:

 

Mileage Accrual Structure – Hotel Stays

Two (2) Etihad Guest Miles per $1 US spent on qualifying hotel charges at the following brands:

  • JW Marriott®
  • Autograph Collection® Hotels
  • Renaissance® Hotels
  • Marriott Hotels®
  • Marriott Vacation Club®

Two (2) Etihad Guest Miles per $1 US spent on room rate only at the following brands:

  • The Ritz-Carlton®
  • EDITION®
  • Gaylord Hotels®

One (1) Etihad Guest Mile per $1 US spent on room rate only at the following brands:

  • Courtyard by Marriott®
  • AC Hotels by Marriott®
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott®
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott®
  • Residence Inn by Marriott®
  • TownePlace Suites by Marriott®
  • Marriott Executive Apartments®
  • Moxy Hotels*

Rewarding Events

Earn one (1) Etihad Guest Mile per $1 US spent; maximum of 15,000 Miles per event

Qualified events have at least 10+ room nights on a single night or are catered-only events

  • The Ritz-Carlton®
  • JW Marriott®
  • EDITION®
  • Gaylord Hotels®
  • Autograph Collection® Hotels
  • Renaissance® Hotels
  • Marriott Hotels®
  • Courtyard by Marriott®
  • AC Hotels by Marriott®
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott®
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott®
  • Marriott Vacation Club® locations worldwide participate.

Points to Miles Redemptions         

The transfer ratio for Marriott Rewards points to Etihad Guest Miles is as follows:

Marriott Rewards Points                                       Etihad Guest Conversion Miles

10,000                                                               1,500

20,000                                                               3,500

30,000                                                               7,000

70,000                                                               17,500

140,000                                                             35,000

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Mexico’s Constitional Energy Reform. Congressional approval and enactment of secondary legislation

Posted on August 24, 2014 by مشرف

مكسيك

The Energy reform introduces a deep transformation of the oil and electricity sectors in Mexico that will increase productivity and the quality of energy products and services for the benefit of all Mexicans. This will translate into an additional contribution to economic growth, a greater availability of oil and gas, as well as a better electricity provision service comprising a wider coverage and more competitive prices. The energy reform advances a new energy model based on the principles of competence, openness,transparency, sustainability and long term fiscal responsibility. It will therefore contribute to the creation of a more competitive and prosper Mexican economy. The main components of the recently approved and enacted energy reform bill are the following: o The reform opens the energy sector to competition in order to attract private investments that may broaden the national oil production capacity. In order to make this possible, the constitutional reform and the secondary legislation create a flexible contractual model through which PEMEX, the national oil company, as well as private enterprises will be able to associate
in the exploration and extraction of oil and gas, while State ownership of hidrocarbons will prevail. o So that it may thrive, Pemex was provided with a new corporate structure, with technical and administrative autonomy, as well as a fiscal regime that is much less onerous than it used to be so that it can channel more financial resources for investment and its own development. o Also a wider private participation will be allowed in the National Electricity System in order to increase efficiency in electric power generation and facilitate the expansion of the wholesale market. This will reduce the cost of electricity services for consumers, foster the transition towards clean energy and expand the system’s coverage to all areas. As in the oil sector, transmission and distribution activities will remain state owned and controlled but private participation will be allowed through contracts. The Energy Reform aimes at attracting investments and modernizing the energy sector in order to: o Contribute to the household economy by diminishing the energy prices, in particular those of electricity and gas. Also more quality jobs will be created and a better service in the provision of fuels will be provided.o Promote social development, as a significant part of the oil rent will be directed at social spending, long term savings, scholarships and technology development projects. o Contribute to environmental preservation and protection as the generation of clean and renewable energies will be a priority. o Increase transparency in the energy sector so that the general public can verify the income and flows of ressources from and into it as well as its use for national development goals.o Increase the general country competitiveness by reducing energy prices while modernizingPemex and the National Electricity Company. Embassy of MexicoKingdom of Saudi Arabia Al Fazaari Plaza C-9, Diplomatic Quarter. P.O. Box 94391 Riyadh 11693, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ph. +966 1 480 8822, Fax +966 1 480 8833. E-mail: embassyofmexico@embamex.org.sa , http://embamex.sre.gob.mx/arabiasaudita/o Increase Mexico’s industrial productivity, by increasing the availability of low cost energy inputs produced in the country while enlarging energy exports and diminish dependence of imported energy products.Main goals of the Energy reform in numberso Achieve restitution rates of proved oil and gas reserves of 100 percent or more. o Increase oil production from 2.5 million barrels a day to 3 million in 2018, and 3.5 million in 2025. Likewise, increase production of natural gas from 5700 million cubic feet daily to 8000 in 2018 and 10,400 in 2025. o Contribute with one percent GDP growth in 2018 and two percent in 2025. o Create over half a million additional jobs over the next five years, and about 2.5 million jobs in 2025. o Substitute the most polluting electricity central plants with clean technologies and increase the use of natural gas in electricity production.With unity of purposes, in months we overcame decades of immobility: President Enrique Peña NietoWhile enacting the secondary legislation of the Energy Reform, President Enrique Peña Nieto stated that “thanks to the unity of purposes, in months we overcame decades of immobility; the barriers that prevented Mexico from growing in an accelerated and sustained manner have been knocked down.”During the event, held in the Main Courtyard of the National Palace, the President declared that, once the legislative process was completed, “we reaffirm that the Energy Reform preserves and assures the nation’s property over Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), the Comisión Federal de Electricidad —Federal Electricity Commission (CFE)—, hydrocarbons in subsoil and the oil revenue.He noted that “with this Reform we can extract deepwater oil and more effectively use our great shale deposit to obtain gas that allows us to generate electricity at a lower cost. The country will reduce its dependency on foreign supplies and will guarantee its energysecurity”.After acknowledging federal lawmakers for “their splendid job in achieving and making this important Reform a reality,” President Peña Nieto said that this changes will translate in concrete benefits for families, both at the city and at the countryside, as well as businesses, especially small and medium enterprises. President Enrique Peña Nieto reaffirmed that “the Energy Reform is also a green reform because it promotes the use of cleaner fuels such as gas, which pollutes 70 per cent less than oil. It will also allow the production of energy based on renewable sources like solar, wind power, and geothermal energy.”The head of the Executive Branch emphasized that “this is the moment to put the Energy Reform in action so the majority of Mexico can receive the benefits this landmark reform brings”. Consequently, he announced ten concrete actions, in the short and medium run, to achieve this goal.WITH THE ENERGY REFORM, THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS HAVE WIDENEDTHE PATH FOR THE FUTURE: PEDRO JOAQUÍN COLDWELLSecretary of Energy Pedro Joaquín Coldwell expressed that “with the Energy Reform, the President and Congress have widened the path for the future.” He also claimed that with the enactment of the Secondary Legislation of the Energy Reform, “this day is a watershed, a before and an after in the energy paradigm experienced for the past decades.”A change in the way in which we relate our national identity to energy, which will now correspond to the realities of the twenty-first century, and the environment in which the Mexicans of this generation develop,” he said. Secretary of Energy Joaquín said both the CFE and PEMEX strengthen, as they no longer function as decentralized public bodies and now become 100 per cent State-owned productive enterprises, with the objective of becoming strong, sound, and competitive public companies.He noted that the Energy Reform will generate major transformations in two aspects; first, that the hydrocarbon industry has the capital and technology to access deepwater and unconventional resources, and second, that the electric industry operates through an energy market involving public and private companies participating on equal terms. ENERGY REFORM IS A PROFOUND CHANGE BETWEEN OUR NATIONAL ENERGY AND PUBLIC FINANCE: Luis Videgaray Caso Secretary of Finance and Public Credit, Luis Videgaray Caso noted that the Energy Reform “is a profound change in the relationship between our energy and national Treasury. It is a radical reform of the tax treatment of oil, gas, and electricity. “He highlighted three key aspects in fiscal and budgetary fields, arising from the Energy Reform: First. The financial strengthening of PEMEX and the CFE. The aim is to strengthen PEMEX in the face of the competition it will encounter, just as the CFE in the creation of a new electricity market.Second. Oil revenues and income for the Mexican State. The Energy Reform, “in addition to generating, among other benefits, more investment, more jobs and paying reliable and cheaper power supply, will allow us to resume growth in the production platform.” Third. The creation of the Mexican Petroleum Fund, “which will aim to ensure that present and future generations of Mexicans, who are the owners of the oil revenue, receive the income for the good of the country. This Fund was constituted as a trust in the Bank of Mexico with a majority of independent counsellors”, he said.THE ENERGY REFORM OPENS GREAT POSSIBILITIES TO MEXICO AND TRANSFORMS IN DEPTH THE ENTIRE SECTOR: GUSTAVO MADERO The president of the National Executive Committee of the Partido Acción Nacional, Gustavo Madero Muñoz, said: “The Energy Reform enacted today opens great possibilities for Mexico; opportunities that had been denied for decades”. The reform transforms the entire energy sector to compete globally, improving the quality and price of products and services, increasing the investment and job creation.”It is a paradigmatic reform, in its form and content, and in a particular way it opens a new era for the energy sector, and for our entire country,” he said.The reform ensures the national sovereignty over the ownership of hydrocarbons; opens the sector to private investment under models that maximize oil revenue; modernizes and strengthens PEMEX and the CFE as productive state enterprises with full autonomy; creates a competitive and efficient energy market, and defined strong and clear regulatory bodies.”These are the tools that our country needed for years for the energy market, they will benefit all Mexicans,” he said. THE ENERGY REFORM IS HISTORIC BY ORIGIN AND SIGNIFICANCE: CÉSAR CAMACHOThe president of the National Executive Committee of the Partido Revolucionario Institucional, César Camacho Quiroz, emphasized that the Energy Reform is historic by origin and significance and is the most transformative for the country. “This is a social vocation Reform because the State will not only keep ownership of the hydrocarbons, but reaffirms its rectory in strategic areas, ensuring that oil wealth will lead to prosperity for all”, he said.The reform will derive transcendental changes to ensure that Mexican companies have sufficient fuel at prices that make them competitive, and allow them to have greater resources that benefit the most vulnerable population with the support of social, education and development programs.”The economy will be strengthened. Our productive plant will be modernized and more environmentally friendly. Our energy sovereignty is consolidated in a climate of transparency”, he said.

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‘’Love Culture’’ announces the opening of its new branch in Granada Mall The company opens its fourth branch in Saudi Arabia

Posted on August 24, 2014 by مشرف

inside store

‘’Love Culture’’ the U.S. leading lifestyle fashion brand, announced the opening of its new branch in Riyadh following a strategic move to expand its operations in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, by offering a wide variety of trendy fashion with high quality at an affordable prices for edgy fashionable young women.

‘’Love Culture’’ provides a new trendy fashion line based on design, style and value, complemented with a unique shopping experience for stylish shoppers.

The opening ceremony took place in the new branch in the presence of the company’s officials, employees, invitees interested in fashion and media representatives. This new opening is part of ‘’Love Culture’’ strategic expansion plan implemented this year and will continue for the forthcoming years across the Kingdom and GCC.

‘’Love Culture’’ was first launched in Saudi Arabia in April 2014 as the first international branch outside the United States who has 80 branches in 26 states. ‘’Love Culture’’ is available in Riyadh, Qassim, Al-Ahsa and soon in all regions of the Kingdom and the Arabian Gulf.

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Sony’s New 4K LED TV Line-up Delivers Perfect Picture and Superior Sound Quality Two-way Long Duct Speaker and Built-in Subwoofers Produce Powerful Acoustics

Posted on August 20, 2014 by مشرف

صورة اثناء

Modern Electronics Company Ltd.(MEC), a subsidiary of the Al Faisaliah Group and Sony, the leading consumer electronics brand in the region (Middle East and Africa), today announced the expansion of its BRAVIA 4K LED TV line-up with the addition of three new series comprising nine models to offer customers with enhanced options while purchasing a 4K TV.

Sony’s latest offerings include the premium flagship X9500B series featuring the new X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO technology to offer brilliant pictures, the X9000B delivering an innovative design that integrates magnetic fluid speakers, and the X8500B series serving as an affordable option in the 4K LED TV range.

HRH Prince Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Abdullah Al Faisal  said: “Today, customers look for a holistic experience that prioritises the best in audio-visual technology. Over the years, Sony has reiterated its leadership status by delivering the best in technology through factoring in the growing requirements of customers in a dynamic industry landscape.”

  1. Nobuo Kinoshita Sony’s Chief Representative in Saudi Arabia  said: “The launch of the new range of 4K LED TVs brings the best in sound and picture on one platform taking home entertainment to a completely new level and offering customers a new and elevated viewing experience.”

Superior 4K picture quality with dynamic colours

The new line-up features Sony’s proprietary super-resolution high picture quality engine optimized for 4K LED TV – 4K X-Reality™ PRO which enhances picture quality and content using its 4K-to-4K pattern database. This improves sharpness and crispness of original 4K images, boosting the contrast function and enriching the colours on screen. For HD content instead of just increasing pixel count, 4K X-Reality™ PRO uses a content adaptive database for up-scaling. Depending on the contents loaded on the TV, 4K X-Reality™ PRO picks a suitable up-scaling algorithm to make sure every pixel is optimised for a 4K experience.

The TRILUMINOS™ Display offers pure, bold colours comprising X-tended Dynamic Range PRO delivering a dynamic range of brightness, with higher peaks and deeper blacks through the use of its unique backlighting algorithm that further enhances picture quality.

Rich and powerful sound

The X9500B and X8500B series comprise a new two-way Long Duct Speaker, featuring a 1.5 metre long duct in an approximately 0.75 litre capacity speaker box capable of delivering a stronger, richer bass with low distortion. The line-up also has subwoofers built-in to the back of the TV (2 subwoofers for the 85-inch) to further support low frequencies and produce a powerful sound to match the TV’s big screen images. The wedge shape increases capacity and is used to incorporate a large speaker to provide deeper, more powerful sound, unprecedented for a flat-screen TV. X9000B delivers beautifully detailed 4K images and extremely clear sound via its highly acclaimed, front-facing Magnetic Fluid Speakers.

 

Innovative ‘Wedge’ structure

The X9000B series incorporates the innovative ‘Wedge’ structure, a form factor designed to enhance stability in an era when screen size continues to increase. By lowering the TV’s centre of gravity, Sony was able to achieve a smaller pedestal size than conventional TVs, allowing for a wide variety of installation options, despite a large screen size. In addition to increasing installation options, the TV’s sound quality has also been augmented. The range additionally includes a port replicator to help manage the need for multiple cables by merging these ports into a single one, providing the TV with a cleaner, more elegant finish.

 

Enhanced connectivity

The 4K TV user experience is enhanced with the new One-Flick Entertainment feature from Sony. This component offers viewers the option to quickly select and enjoy content not limited to just shows and movies, but also across digital hi-vision broadcasting and network contents, as well as personal photos.

The new 4K LED TVs support the latest HDMI standard, HDMI 2.0, which enables them to display 4K/60p content. This is a standard ideal for fast moving content such as sports footage. The range is also compatible with MHL 3.0, supporting 4K output from smartphones[1] and tablets. In addition to these features, the new models are equipped with a new decoder supporting HEVC and can playback 4K/60p contents from internet streaming services.

Equipped with the unique Exmor R™ for TV CMOS sensor, the new BRAVIA TVs offer a Social Viewing feature, giving consumers the added convenience of sharing their viewing experiences via Skype with family, friends and loved ones, regardless of the geographical distances between them. The technologies incorporated in the built-in camera ensure conversations are never muffled or drowned by the TV’s volume and that crisp, sharp images are continuously broadcasted, even in poorly illuminated conditions.

Optimizing its display technologies, Sony consumers can also gain access to the 500px[2], a premier photography community, via the new BRAVIA TVs. With the expanded 4KTV, consumers are introduced to a world of stunning images that offer the best quality possible.

The X9500B, X9000B and X8500B series 4K LED TVs from Sony will be retailed in the s currently available across all leading electronics retailers and Sony World showrooms in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia .

[1] Depending on smartphone and its firmware.

[2] Learn more about 500px at: http://500px.com/about

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Riyadh Marriott Hotel in a Unique Community Service

Posted on July 4, 2014 by مشرف

Life doesn’t have to be rich for a wedding to be extraordinary. This is what Riyadh Marriott Hotel believes in. This newly refurbished hotel conducted a media brief on Thursday evening about its upcoming “Wedding Fair” at the signature Mosaic Restaurant. It was attended by numbers of people from the press getting a sneak peek of what the fair has to offer.

The event is the second installment and was planned to pursue due to the success of the first fair held last February 7 and 8, 2014.

Riyadh Marriott Hotel’s “Wedding Fair” is part of the hotel’s commitment to local community addressing the challenges faced by would-be couple to have marriage. The main goal of the fair is to break barriers of marriage from planning, arrangements and especially the expensive costs involve to it helping young Saudis who planned to tie their knots.

Hadeel Odeh, Social Events Manager of the Riyadh Marriott Hotel and her team of Wedding specialists, welcomed the press and shared to them the vision and goal of the event. Inquiries were clearly corresponded by the team.

The “Wedding Fair” will be held on July 12 – 14, 2014 at the Riyadh Marriott Hotel where discounts of its halls and ballrooms to be offered up to forty percent. For more details, please call +966 11 4779300.

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ICONIC Eid collection

Posted on June 30, 2014 by مشرف

The much awaited festive season is round the corner and it’s time to dazzle in your finest. Iconic’s Eid collection is your perfect bet to add that glamour to the celebrations with your loved ones.

Eid calls for the entire family and friends to rejoice and be thankful for what they have and the celebrations cannot be complete without a good dose of the latest fashion trends. Make a statement by stepping out in key pieces from the collection like glamorous wrap maxi dresses, evening gowns, drapey tunics, oversized sequin tops and floaty blouses teamed up with cigarette trousers for a ultra-chic look. Whether it’s attending lavish parties or hosting them be the center of attraction when you socialize by experimenting with prints like marble, python and abstract floral that steers away from the usual fashion norms.

A little bling, a sparkle is synonymous with the festive look and so attention to details is key in the collection with hand embellishments, sequins layered on exquisite fabrics like velvet, jacquard, georgette, crepe, metallic jersey and taffeta. Don’t mistake it to be a reason to go over the top, the trick lies in looking festive ready but with a subtle elegance and the color palette ensures just that. Incorporate in your look an array of colors like jet black, ivory, scarlet red, chocolate brown, bronze, icy blue, coral and pink adds just the right amount of drama and sophistication to your wardrobe for Eid.

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Coca-Cola Launches #OpenUp Ramadan Campaign

Posted on June 30, 2014 by مشرف

Coca-Cola Middle East’s new Ramadan campaign #OpenUp, pays tribute to the holy month by seeking to spread happiness and encourage  people to open up to each other, rekindle lost connections, and mend unresolved tensions.

According to research in Psychological Science, the highest ranked empirical journal in psychology, the single-most important variable of “very happy” people was good social relationships with other people[1]. In a regional survey conducted recently[2], about 90% of respondents claimed that they have lost touch with people they’ve considered important in their lives. A whopping 43% cited unresolved tensions as the main contributor to the lost connections. Interestingly enough, 73% indicated that they do intend on reaching out to the people they have lost touch with in the future, claiming that lack of time, geographical constraints, and unresolved tensions are hindering them from doing so. More than half of the respondents expressed remorse over having not addressed the unresolved tensions that led to the downfall of their personal relationships and claim that rekindling the lost relationships would surely add value and meaning to their lives.

This season, Coca-Cola hopes to be the catalyst that sparks unexpected connections and facilitates new relationships while reinforcing old ones. Antoine Tayyar, Director of Communications and Public Affairs comments, “Ramadan is a month of reflection, kindness, inclusion and sharing. The Open Up campaign inspires people to open up to different points of view and acknowledge that whilst differences will always exist, the bonds we share are stronger than any obstacle. The appreciation of the power of the human connection has been embraced by Coca-Cola since its inception and is engraved in its mission to spread happiness.”

The #OpenUp platform is reinforced via two television commercials that highlight two different scenarios where tensions are narrated and resolved. The first story line addresses a generation gap augmented through technology and social media. [video] The second story line revolves around a father and son and how acceptance brings them closer to each other [to be released before Ramadan].

This Ramadan, Coca-Cola encourages one to #OpenUp to loved ones and to observe how these unexpected moments have the power to enrich ones everyday life.

 

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New Lincoln MKZ is Automobile Magazine’s ‘Best Luxurious American Mid-Size’ Sedan

Posted on June 30, 2014 by مشرف

Six months into its Middle Eastern debut and the all-new Lincoln MKZ continues to create a buzz among discerning clientele looking for a distinctive lxury mid-size sedan.  With its appealing looks and unique technologies, the Lincoln MKZ is hard to go unnoticed, an attribute that allowed it to clinch the “Best Luxurious American Mid-Size Car” from Automobile magazine.

Presented by Automobile publisher and Future TV presenter Ibrahim Fakhry, the award was received by Ford executives, Kalyana Sivagnanam, director of Sales, Marketing and Service for Ford Middle East & North Africa and Thierry Sabbagh, Ford Middle East’s director of Sales.

“Without a doubt, the Lincoln MKZ represents the future of Lincoln in both style and substance, featuring a stunning design wrapped around intuitive, purposeful technology,” said Sivagnanam. “We are very pleased to receive this award from Automobile magazine. This is yet another important recognition to the Lincoln MKZ and proof that our mid-size winner is delivering what discerning customers want in terms of distinction, elegance and technologies.”

Lincoln MKZ is the first vehicle from the dedicated Lincoln Design Studio and signifies the introduction of the reinvented Lincoln brand, which will focus on attracting a new body of premium automotive customers.

Ibrahim Fakhry, publisher of Automobile magazine and presenter of Future TV’s Automobile Show, said: “The new Lincoln MKZ was a clear winner for the American luxury mid-size segment this year. With its new design, smooth and elegant interior and dramatically open and flowing center console thanks to the push button shift , the Lincoln MKZ is both a feast for the senses and exciting to drive.”

The all-new Lincoln MKZ brings to the midsize luxury segment distinct offerings:

  • With a sweeping profile, MKZ incorporates one of the world’s widest-opening retractable glass roofs

  • Lincoln Drive Control is an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. Standard Lincoln Drive Control intuitively integrates multiple systems (engine, transmission, body and chassis) to deliver totally new Lincoln driving quality

  • MKZ innovations include a distinct Push Button Shift gear selector that enables flowing and architectural center console design

  • A quiet, well-appointed interior is enhanced by standard Active Noise Control, genuine wood trim, full LCD instrumentation, and SYNC® with MyLincoln Touch™

  • Class-exclusive available inflatable rear safety belts supplement eight standard airbags

  • The Retractable Panoramic Roof is a new signature feature for Lincoln. The 15.2-square-foot glass panel offers one of the largest openings available on any current sedan. The design maintains the structural strength of a steel-roof vehicle

  • Offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids that helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane due to distraction. Consisting of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, the Lane Keeping System utilizes a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead

 

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