ISSUE 14 | APRIL 2015

HR POLICIES: HIRING ‘MR OR MS PERFECT’ DESTINATION: FUNKY HAWAIIAN TOWN

ISSUE 15 | MAY 2015

ARCHITECTURE: BUILDINGS NOT GREEN BUT GOLD DESTINATION: SVALBARD ARCHIPELAGO

ALL EYES ON THE TARGET

OIL NARROWSTRADE SURPLUS

SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE

Qatar achieved a major milestone in reducing carbon emissions with Jetty Boil-off Gas Recovery Project.

PRIVATE BANKCBQ TURNED 40

Qatar’s first private bank Commercial Bank Qatar organised a series of events to mark its 40th anniversary.

The precipitous fall in trade surplus is rather reflective of the considerable drop in the energy prices.

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Editor-in-chief: Darwish S. AhmedEditor: M.V.A. Kumar AGM Marketing: James JohnFeature Writer: Sami Said Ali Copy Editors: John Varghese, Shemna Bijith, Dr. Sudip N, Pradeep Kumar

With 2022 FIFA World Cup just seven years away, massive infrastructure projects, in preparation for that mega event and also as part of modernisation of the country’s facilities, are going on at a fervent pace. No visitor to Qatar can leave without catching the glimpse of at least one project site or road expansion works. This makes everyone hopeful that in the coming few years, the country is going to be transformed into something phenomenally different from what it was a few years ago.

It would be no exaggeration to say that with multi-billion dollar projects under way, Qatar has become the cynosure of all eyes in the world. Many technologically advanced countries are keen on sharing knowhow and expertise in construction, railways, port development, renewable energy etc through business deals that involve multinational corporations and governments.

Qatar’s construction sector reportedly boasts a diverse portfolio of projects estimated at $200bn and this has made it extremely appealing for industry professionals and policy-makers worldwide. The recent four-day Project Qatar expo provided ample evidence of how big-ticket companies view Qatar. The exhibition attracted 1,300 exhibitors from 40 countries, offering them the opportunity to showcase their products and services across 21 pavilions.

HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce, Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani, who inaugurated the event, admitted that Project Qatar remained a very important exhibition in the country, and continued to play a pivotal role in the enhancement of trade and commerce. The diversity of participants was an example that Project Qatar is significant not only to Qatar but also for the Middle East, he added.

While on the one hand, the expo showcased the best that the global construction and building materials industry had to offer, on the other it allowed international exhibitors to witness first-hand massive development projects such as the New Hamad Port. Seizing the opportunity, at least 40 exhibitors visited the New Hamad Port, one of the world’s largest greenfield port developments, spreading across 26.5 square kilometres. This issue brings you details of this crucially important exhibition along with interviews with a banker and educationist. We also have our regular columns along with some new ones, articles on the energy sector, Q1 corporate results and a piece on travel to the polar region.

DARWISH S. AHMED EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Enjoy reading!

Project Qatar showcased technology and opportunities

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6 MAY

CONTENTSBusiness @ Qatar

ENGAGING QATAR’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY

A look at strategicincompetenceManaging incompetent employees is every company’s worst nightmare, but it is important to find out if the employee is only de-motivated or truly incompetent, writes R. Ramesh.

All eyes on the targetProject Qatar 2015 exhibition showed beyond doubt that all infrastructure development projects were on track and also the tremendous investment potential generated by them, writes Peter Alagos..

Where white is the new blackTravel writer Anne Z. Cooke took a cruise in a ship to Svalbard Archipelago, close to the globe’s northernmost point, where she saw the ice pack and a land of polar bears.

2016 models and popular marquesA more powerful, lighter and third-generation, all-new Audi TT 2016 and 2016 Honda City in addition to Rolls-Royce and MINI vehicles’ sales growth made news.

8 MAY

10 MAY

CONTENTS

Roundup — BankingA possible interest rate hike and a report on lending to private sector were under spotlight.

Events — Real EstateCityscape Qatar 2015 reaffirmed that all real estate sectors are set for significant expansion.

Roundup — Corporate resultsBarwa and QInvest were among companies that reported impressive first-quarter profit growth.

Brand EquityBrand Finance’s study placed Qatar Airways as the fourth most valuable brand in the Mena.

Roundup — TradeThe fall in the country’s trade surplus is reflective of the drop in the energy prices.

Stock ReviewDespite some initial weakness the stock market vaulted, spurred by stronger buying interests.

Product launchesA look at the newly-launched products and services from mobile applications to dining.

News ScanA quick rewind to find out which individuals and companies were in the news last month.

Buildings notgreen but gold!Gold Futuristic Architect and Beyond Sustainable – Brand Ambassador Roshancherri explains Gold Architecture which would help society and community to thrive by creating positive energy.

Taking marketingto a new levelThe Department of Management and Marketing, College of Business & Economics, Qatar University, is offering a Master of Science in Marketing with focus in sports marketing.

Significant milestone With the recently inaugurated $1bn Jetty Boil-off Gas Recovery (JBOG) Project in Ras Laffan, the biggest of its kind, Qatar is recovering what used to be wasted fuel.

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Tapping thepotentialInfrastructure development has created a waterfall from large developers and construction firms down to small businesses, says Niranjan Mendonca of Mashreq Qatar.

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EVENTS — REAL ESTATE

CITYSCAPE QATAR REAFFIRMS REAL ESTATE EXPANSIONThe Pearl-Qatar of UDC was this year’s most high-profile project The three-day Cityscape Qatar 2015 concluded recently, reaffirming that all real estate sectors were set for significant expansion in the coming years, particularly residential and retail, as the country continues to invest in large-scale infrastructure and construction projects in the lead-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Qatar National Vision 2030, according to the organisers.

The event, held under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, offered a number of networking opportunities for the industry’s key local, regional and international players, which included United Development Company (UDC), United Developers, Al Bandary Real Estate, Dubai Properties and Astad Project Management.

One of the most high-profile projects at this year’s event was UDC’s The Pearl-Qatar. Cityscape Qatar 2015

attracted some 85 exhibitors from over 20 countries, along with 8,000 visitors over three days, the organisers pointed out

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12 MAY

NEWSDomasco delivers Volvo trucks to United ReadymixQGBC launches Qatar

Green Directory

Tarsheed Award for Enviro Global Enterprises man

Domasco, the authorised distributor in Qatar for Volvo and other leading international brands, recently delivered its first Volvo’s FMX400 8x4R-I Transit Mixers to United Readymix. The all-new Volvo FMX was launched in the GCC region in 2014 and is the latest of the Volvo FMX construction trucks that are “packed with innovative solutions,” according to a statement.

The Volvo FMX engine delivers the required power for challenging work environments such as construction sites. Volvo FMX trucks have the highest ground clearance within the category and a robust suspension system that combine to guarantee maximum productivity in the most extreme surface conditions, the statement pointed out.

The Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) has launched a Qatar Green Directory, an online interactive platform, aimed at increasing awareness of sustainable products and services in the state and the region. This was announced at the inaugural Qatar Green Building Conference that opened at the Qatar National Convention Centre. More than 500 delegates from Qatar and around the world are taking part in the two-day conference and exhibition.

The first of its-kind in the country, the directory features a comprehensive search engine and database, providing information and analysis about green building products and services available in Qatar and the region.

Issa al-Mohannadi, Chairperson of QGBC and Qatar Tourism Authority, said the directory would give a big push to sustainability. The directory forms a major part of QGBC’s support of Qatar Foundation’s commitment to deliver the sustainability goals set out in the Qatar National Vision 2030 by raising awareness and promoting best practices in Qatar’s green building sector.

Dr Alex Amato, Head of Sustainability at QGBC, said: “The Qatar Green Directory is a direct outcome of QGBC’s innovative research of the green building industry in Qatar. QGBC is working closely with other stakeholders in Qatar and the region to identify the mainstream needs and suggest innovative solutions.”

Mohammed bin Hamad al-Badi, of Enviro Global Enterprises, recently won a Tarsheed Award for Best Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Initiative 2015, instituted by Kahramaa. The Minister of Energy and Industry HE Dr Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada presented the award to al-Badi for his efforts in launching Geowash Qatar — a 100 per cent eco-friendly premium mobile hand car wash service.

Geowash Qatar uses just two to three litres of water to wash a car. The service is offered from a self-contained mobile cart operating on a 12V car battery using a 100 per cent biodegradable product range. This service targets to achieve water savings within the auto car wash industry in Qatar which on rough estimates could be consuming 3 to 5bn litres per annum. Satish Mehra, General Manager of Enviro Global, was also present at the event.

Issa al-Mohannadi, QGBC Chairperson

Ooredoo recently won the “TMT Innovation Award” during the TMT Mena Awards 2015 held in Dubai for its innovative partnership with Rocket Internet, a Germany-based incubator for online companies. Ooredoo and Rocket Internet joined forces in August 2014 to create the Asia Pacific Internet Group (APACIG), a partnership that aims to build and fund online start-ups, with ventures ranging from online retail and marketplaces to classified services.

Since its launch, APACIG has become a leading online platform in Asia, building top Internet companies that have continued to grow and expand through 2015. In addition to managing the operations of 14 companies across 15 markets within the Asia Pacific, APACIG has launched four new ventures in the past year: ShopWings, Printvenue, Helpling, and SpaceWays.

It also expanded its online jobs classifieds venture, Work.com.mm, in Myanmar into Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Nepal under the Everjobs brand. The company has also facilitated the merger of two of Asia Pacific’s leading online comparison shopping businesses, PricePanda and Getprice, under the “Next Commerce” banner with the aim of creating a market-leading network across the region. Ooredoo Group CEO Dr Nasser Marafih said, “This award is a testament to the successful partnership we have established with Rocket Internet in 2014.”

GCC patent applications portal inaugurated Ooredoo wins ‘TMT Innovation Award 2015’

GOIC and Manateq sign MoU to attract ‘added value companies’

HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani and the Secretary-General of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) recently launched the “Hemaya” system, an electronic portal for submitting patent applications in the GCC states.

The launching ceremony was part of the activities of the “Intellectual Property and Innovation workshop”. The minister said there was a great deal of harmony between scientific research and the use of intellectual property and development outputs that limit unemployment and contribute to job creation, not to mention the significant contribution to gross domestic product.

The Gulf Organisation for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) and special economic zone developer and operator, Manateq, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to attract “added-value companies” to the country. Manateq CEO Fahad Rashid al-Kaabi said the MoU will provide Manateq access to GOIC’s data base, which could help identify industrial investment opportunities in “key promising industries” in Qatar and the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) region.

“Gulf Organisation for Industrial Consulting has a huge data base, and they have maintained good communication with a variety of industries in Qatar and the rest of the GCC. We are targeting certain clusters or the so-called ‘added-value companies’ and encourage them to invest in our economic zones,” al-Kaabi told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the opening of the “Invest in Qatar 2015” forum held in Doha.

13MAY

14 MAY

NEWS

Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) has won the bid to offer insurance coverage to both the Hamad International Airport (HIA) and the Doha International Airport (DIA). The request for proposal was awarded to QIC by the Civil Aviation Authority in Qatar for one year with effect from May 1, 2015 in respect of property, operational/aviation liability and motor at the HIA and the DIA, for premium amounting to QR9.33mn.

“This is the second year in a row that we have won this particular bid, which clearly indicates the level of confidence placed in our services by operators of large projects,” QIC Senior Deputy Group President and Chief Executive Ali al-Fadala said.

Although the premium earned by QIC for this coverage will not have a tangible impact on the company’s financial outcome, he said it was a source of great pride and honour to provide insurance coverage for the nation’s assets — the two most valuable transportation hubs of Qatar.

Last year, a QIC-led consortium of domestic insurers, had won “single project tunnelling and rail construction insurance” from Qatar Rail for its Doha Metro project. The national insurance consortium provides “construction all risks” and “third-party liability” insurance to Phase 1 of Doha Metro Project. In the first three months of this year QIC Group posted an impressive double-digit expansion in gross written premium.

QIC to offer insurance coverage for Hamad and Doha InternationaI Airports

GWC ‘authorised service contractor’ for UPS in Qatar

Landmark Group opens 21 new stores at Gulf Mall

Qatar’s leading logistics provider Gulf Warehousing Company has signed an agreement to become the “authorised service contractor” for UPS for express parcel service in Qatar from June. The agreement allows GWC to provide UPS products and services, including express parcel delivery, as well as access to the UPS global network in more than 220 countries and territories.

Earlier, GWC Fine Art has unveiled two new trucks specifically designed for fine art movement as part of its commitment to providing institutional and private collectors, museums and galleries with the highest international standards of fine art logistics in Qatar.

Landmark Group recently announced the opening of 21 new stores at Doha’s Gulf Mall. This takes the group’s consolidated store count in the country to nearly 70 and the total retail area to almost 806,680sqft. Iconic, the group’s own brand, is launching its first store in the country at Gulf Mall. The brand is a one-stop fashion destination, offering trendy fashion apparel, footwear, beauty products and a host of accessories for men, women and children. The brand houses internationally renowned brands like Paul’s Boutique, UCLA and UMM, among others, according to a statement.

Gulf Mall will also host the group’s newest brand, SportsOne, a multi-brand sporting gear retail destination. The concept’s wide collection includes sports apparel, footwear, gym equipment, road bikes, racquet sports gear, football gear, golf and indoor/outdoor sport equipment, and caters to the entire family’s sporting needs under one roof, the statement added.

15

QU in deal with Qatar Rail for project co-ordination

Qatar University (QU) and Qatar Railways Company (QR) signed an agreement to enhance co-ordination and communication for the construction and operation of the Red Line North Rail Station at QU in line with Qatar Rail Development Project (QRDP). The agreement was signed by QU President Prof Sheikha Abdulla al-Misnad and QR CEO Saad Ahmed al-Muhannadi in the presence of several senior officials from QU and QR.

The agreement aims to provide mechanisms for co-operation, co-ordination, communication and exchange of information between both Qatar University and Qatar Railways Company, and any third party.

Both institutions will establish and agree on work content, programme and sequencing, as well as the identification and resolution of issues necessary for the execution and completion of QR activities and other works.

Prof al-Misnad said: “We are pleased to co-operate with Qatar Rail in the spirit of co-operation between academic and industrial sectors, and the commitment of both to serve the wider community through various services. This agreement will enhance our efforts to support national development activities as well as the aspirations of society, as the country prepares itself for hosting FIFA World Cup 2022 and other top international events.”

Jeweller opens its sixth outlet in Qatar

Msheireb Downtown’s Diwan Annex awarded LEED platinum status

Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan recently inaugurated the 132nd outlet of Malabar Gold & Diamonds at LuLu Hypermarket on D-Ring Road. The new outlet takes the total number of Malabar Gold & Diamonds showrooms in Qatar to six. Present on the occasion were Indian Ambassador Sanjiv Arora, Malabar Group Chairman M P Ahammed, Managing Director - International Operations, Shamlal Ahamed MP, Group Executive Director Abdul Salam K P, other directors of the group and guests.

“The new showroom showcases a breathtaking collection of jewellery with the perfect combination of precious metals and stones,” a statement issued by the company said.

Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation and Qatar’s leading sustainable developer, has achieved LEED Platinum status for its Diwan Annex building situated within its flagship development, Msheireb Downtown Doha.

LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification programme that recognises best-in-class building strategies and practices. To receive LEED certification, building projects satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels of certification. Certified by the US Green Building Council under the LEED Core & Shell Version 2.0, the Diwan Annex has met and, in some areas, surpassed all requirements in achieving LEED Platinum certification. Msheireb Properties also won recenty two awards as part of Kahramaa’s National Programme for Conservation and Energy Efficiency – Tarsheed.

MAY

16 MAY

NEWSVolvo construction machines and high-tech simulator unveiledQIIB goes l ive on Oracle

Exadata platform

Zanzibar business team visits QC to explore opportunities

Arabian Agencies Company (Araco) has unveiled three new machines from Volvo Construction Equipment, including a state-of-the-art simulator that would provide high-tech training to excavator operators. Araco Sales & Business Development Manager Walid Dowidar described the launching of Volvo’s EW205D wheeled excavator, MC60C skid steer loader, and the DD25 asphalt compactor as a “timely event” in the wake of Qatar’s construction boom.

He added that the highlight of the exclusive viewing of the machines, which was held recently at the Al Gassar Resort, was the unveiling of the Volvo Simulated Operator Training.

Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB) recently went live with Oracle Exadata, a “comprehensive engineered platform that delivers extreme performance for both data warehousing and online transaction processing application databases”, Mannai Trading Company had announced.

The project is aimed at consolidating QIIB’s Oracle database into a private database cloud. This, in turn, will streamline administrative and deployment processes, maximise visibility and enable better control of information and data, leading to improved competence, agility and efficiency of QIIB’s data infrastructure, the statement added.

The database upgrade and consolidation solution was designed and implemented by Mannai Trading Company to achieve high availability across all layers within QIIB’s IT environment. The upgrade and implementation of Oracle’s comprehensive engineered system was undertaken by Mannai Trading’s Software Division, an Oracle platinum partner. Mannai has completed the upgrade and implementation successfully and will also provide post-implementation maintenance and the support required to run the product.

QIIB has honoured Mannai Trading Company and commended its professional services offered during the project.

A business delegation from Zanzibar, headed by its Finance Minister Omar Yussuf Mzee, recently visited Qatar Chamber (QC) to explore the mutual investment opportunities in Qatar and Zanzibar. The delegation was received by QC Vice-chairman Mohamed Ahmed bin Tuwar and QC board member Ahmed al-Ubaidly. The delegation included People’s Bank of Zanzibar Chairman Abdulrahman M Jumbe and Zanzibar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairman Abdulla Abbas Omar and other senior officials and businessmen.

Mzee pointed out that Zanzibar has some promising investment opportunities in tourism, which represent around 27 per cent of its economy, especially fishing and the oil and gas industry. He said the delegation wanted to explore good opportunities in the Islamic banking sector in Qatar and already met the representatives of such banks during the visit.

17MAY

COVER STORY

ALL EYES ON THE TARGETProject Qatar showed beyond doubt that all infrastructure development projects were on track and also the tremendous investment potential generated by them, writes Peter Alagos

The increase in the number of big-ticket companies that participated in the just-concluded Project Qatar expo provided additional assurance for all concerned that the ongoing infrastructure projects would meet their respective target dates. “Apart from strengthening bilateral relations between Qatar and other countries, the increase in the number of companies participating in the event, assures the Qatari government that it is heading towards the right direction. Qatar Chamber

Director-General Remy Rowhani told Busineess@Qatar on the sidelines of the opening of the 12th edition of the event. “We are assured that these projects are being done by both local and international experts. On the local front, we can’t do everything on our own and we certainly need the presence of international experts to get these projects done,” Rowhani said at the Qatar National Convention Centre, where Project Qatar was held this year.

This view was echoed by Indian Ambassador Sanjiv Arora, who noted that the number of Indian companies that participated this year had increased to 65 compared to 45 in the previous edition of Project Qatar.

The ambassador said the investment generated by Indian companies that participated in the previous edition of Project Qatar was estimated at around QR100mn.

When asked whether Indian exhibitors would be able to replicate last year’s

17MAY

18 MAY

investment feat, Arora said: “I would say that it would certainly increase substantially, but this is, certainly, another positive development in our bilateral and economic co-operation with Qatar. Economic partnerships are on the top of the agenda of both Qatar and India in terms of our interaction and co-operation.”

Rowhani also said that the increase in the number of joint ventures forged between Qatar and foreign firms during Project Qatar “sets the pace for future trends.”

“As we move forward and closer to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the infrastructure and construction environment becomes more vibrant. And what’s important is that this particular event sets a new landmark and milestone for Qatar every year,” Rowhani stressed.

IFP Qatar General Manager George Ayache said: “With all these infrastructure developments happening, the world has its eye on Qatar. Every year, we see an increase in the participation of many countries, and we hope to attract more of them in the future Project Qatar events as we get closer to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.”

He added that next year, IFP Qatar was planning to include more exhibitors from the field of renewable energy. This year, there were a few exhibitors from that field, however, he said they were contemplating about collaborating with a Europe-based organiser to bring ‘Urban Tech’ and hold it alongside Project Qatar. Urban Tech specialises in renewable energy, smart cities, and sustainable living, in general, Ayache informed. HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani, who inaugurated the event, said: “Project Qatar remains a very important exhibition in the country, and continues to play a pivotal role in the enhancement of trade and commerce. The diversity of participants is an example that Project Qatar is significant not only to Qatar but also for the Middle East.”

Project site visitsProject Qatar not only showcased what the global construction and building materials industry had to offer, but also allowed international exhibitors to witness firsthand Qatar’s massive development projects such as the New Hamad Port.

At least 40 exhibitors visited the New Hamad Port, one of the world’s largest greenfield port developments, spreading across 26.5 square kilometres. “What makes Project Qatar unique is its location in one of the most vibrant economies and construction markets worldwide. By visiting the New Hamad Port project, I witnessed the rapid development of one of Qatar’s key infrastructure projects first hand. The site tour gave me a chance to see technology and theory in practice and to strategically think about future business,” one of the exhibitors said.

Exhibitor interestExhibitors, representing a wide range of leading companies and brands from across the world, along with a diverse group of industry professionals and experts, expressed keen interest in Qatar’s ongoing infrastructure projects.

Another group of international exhibitors also visited the Mall of Qatar construction site. With a projected footfall of 20mn each year, the mall will be among the leading destinations for retail, leisure, and entertainment in Qatar.

19MAY

Such site visits enable international exhibitors to explore major construction developments in Qatar firsthand, serving as an opportunity to contextualise the knowledge and technology that were featured at the exhibition. Aside from site tours, visitors commended the variety of technologies showcased across Project Qatar’s exhibition halls, and emphasised the value of the B2B matchmaking activities, which strengthened their professional networks, and provided insight into industry trends by engaging with experts and policy makers. During the entire duration of the event, almost 300 pre-arranged B2B matchmaking meetings were held, all of which enabled visitors and exhibitors to expand their operations or achieve new business opportunities. “During my first visit, I have seen state-of-the-art technology, and connected with peers, from across the world. The knowledge and contacts gained at Project Qatar – known as one of the world’s leading construction exhibitions in the ever-growing Gulf region – will benefit my company, and help with securing business deals in Qatar and elsewhere,” said one B2B participant.

The Project Qatar Business Intelligence Series also featured six specialised conferences, which included HVACTech Qatar 2015 and Future BIM (Building Information Modelling) Implementation. The first day of the workshops kicked off with three sessions: “The ISO 9001 revision in more detail” and “ISO 14001: 2015 Revision and Transition” by the British Standards Institution Group Middle East, “Main Issues facing construction companies – a banking perspective” by Qatar Development Bank, and “An overview of the GCC Building Materials

Industry” and “Manufacturing Investments Opportunities in Qatar” by the Gulf Organisation for Industrial Consulting (GOIC).

ConferencesMeanwhile, the HVACTech conference brought together private and government project stakeholders, along with the latest case studies demonstrating how heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) advancements can best be applied to answer challenges in Qatar’s construction environment. Currently air-conditioning accounts for 70 per cent of the total electricity consumption in Qatar, making sustainable cooling solutions a top priority for the country, impacting both end-users and project owners seeking greater efficiency and cost savings. Hot topics also included energy optimisation and conservation, issues relating to HVAC and civil defence approval, building automation and energy management systems and new approaches to improve indoor air quality. On Future BIM Implementation, the agenda included the current state of BIM implementation in the region, information about upcoming projects that are implementing BIM, new business opportunities, and exploring emerging technologies. The nature and size of many domestic projects is encouraging developers to incorporate BIM to facilitate ambitious building schedules. From transportation systems to sporting stadiums and other infrastructure elements, BIM enables architects, engineers, owners, and construction firms to use 3D digital models to collaborate and support building projects throughout their lifecycle, ensuring that projects are delivered to the required specifications on schedule and within budget. Another conference was LightingTech, which celebrated its second edition at Project Qatar 2015.

Project Qatar not only showcased what the global construction and building materials industry had to offer, but the event also allowed international exhibitors to witness firsthand Qatar’s massive development projects such as the New Hamad Port.”

HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce, Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani seen at the Project Qatar 2015 expo

20 MAY

Driven by the enormous amount of construction and development that Qatar is currently undertaking, innovation in lighting technology is playing an increasingly important role. Led by green objectives, design needs and energy efficiency goals, advances in lighting technology are providing greater incentive to developers and project principals to utilise lighting effectively in urban, corporate and residential developments, roads, highways and in the public realm. The topics discussed during the conference included storing and using individual localised solar generation for highway lighting, as well as the introduction of more efficient LED lighting systems. It also covered topics on the latest government regulations, industry standards and certifications, as well as the impending needs of the lighting industry.

Another workshop was dedicated to heat management, and drew from the expertise of Dr Rahma Salim of Hamad Medical Corporation

“Ashghal Building Affairs focused on a rigorous approach to programme delivery, sustainability and health safety and security for its portfolio of projects, which would seem to tie in with the objectives of Project Qatar,” Bartle-Tubbs said. Given the success of previous years, Project Qatar 2015 had coincided again with two concurrently held events. Visitors had the chance to delve into construction technology as well as building materials after attending “Qatar Stone Tech 2015,” the 4th International Stone and Stone Technology Show, and “Heavy Max 2015,” the 12th International Exhibition for Heavy Machinery.

Concurrent eventsCovering issues at the core of the industry, the two concurrently held events had equipped participating professionals with insights for their operations over the long term, regardless. With major projects in Qatar, such as the $5.5bn deep water seaport, roadways worth $20bn as well as eco-friendly stadia costing an estimated $32bn, “Qatar Stone Tech 2015” and “Heavy Max 2015” addressed the technologies,

Variety of workshops

This year, IFP Qatar has collaborated with Qatar Chamber for workshops on a wide range of trending industry themes through the Project Qatar Workshop Series. One of the workshops featured Thani al-Zarraa, Senior Engineer at the Supreme Council for Delivery and Legacy (SCDL), who spoke on some of the most critical developments and opportunities in Qatar’s construction sector.

(HMC). Both workshops served to deepen participants’ knowledge about trending industry topics, with an emphasis on commercial and educational aspects of construction. The workshop featuring Colin Bartle-Tubbs, senior advisor at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), and Mark Saville, Health & Safety co-ordinator at Ashghal, addressed programme management as well as Ashghal’s approach to Health & Safety and sustainability.

21MAY

equipment and machinery critical to the growth of Qatar’s construction sector and future business.

Insight into event In order to further enhance the exhibition experience, Project Qatar 2015 featured an improved mobile app, which provided a detailed insight into the event, including the exhibitors’ list, sponsors, floor plan, and visitors’ registration form.

“Considering that Qatar’s construction sector boasts a diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects worth an estimated $200bn, it will retain its appeal to industry professionals and policy-makers worldwide. Through its focus on the latest technology, and as a gateway to the Gulf, Project Qatar will remain integral to the country’s vibrant economy, advancing its development,” said Albert Aoun, owner of IFP Group. Overall, Ayache described this year’s event as a successful gathering of

experts and major stakeholders in the construction industry. “Over the course of four days, Project Qatar 2015 transformed the QNCC into an international construction and trade hub, allowing more than 2,000 companies and brands to spread over 41,500sqm of exhibition space. “Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, Project Qatar 2015 attracted 1,300 exhibitors from 40 countries, and showcased their products and services across 21 pavilions, thus showing the persistent growth of the exhibition.” Ayache stressed. He added, “Project Qatar 2015 has welcomed thousands of professionals from around the world. Once again, we provided insight into the latest technology, informed about important industry trends through our educational and trade-related features, especially the new workshop series. The event also enabled visitors

and exhibitors to strengthen their professional networks. The number of deals discussed during our many B2B meetings is evidence of the value Project Qatar generates.” One of the exhibitors, Sabine Geiter, Head of Marketing & Communications at MAN Truck & Bus Middle East and Africa FZE, said, “At Project Qatar 2015, we exhibited our latest construction truck as part of our innovative commercial vehicle portfolio. The exhibition gave us a good opportunity to network and share our knowhow with our customers and suppliers and to strengthen our position in the Qatari market.”

Importance of constructionAyache was also confident that in the coming years, the construction sector would remain central to Qatar’s economy, as less than half of the country’s GDP is now derived from hydrocarbons. “Industry professionals worldwide have recognised the range of opportunities available across the Gulf, and Project Qatar remains committed to provide the knowledge and technology enabling innovation and development. The conclusion of this 12th edition is the onset of further projects and major opportunities,” he added

Over the course of four days, Project Qatar 2015 transformed the QNCC into an international construction and trade hub, allowing more than 2,000 companies and brands to spread over 41,500sqm of exhibition space.”

22 MAY

ROUNDUP – CORPORATE RESULTS

FIRMS GET OFF TO GOOD STARTBarwa Real Estate Company, QInvest, Barwa Bank, GWC and Aamal were among companies that reported impressive first-quarter profit growth

Most of the listed companies including banks reported double-digit growth in year-on-year first-quarter net profit with only two or three companies reporting a drop in profit. Barwa Real Estate Company reported more than 12-fold jump in net profit to QR3.25bn in the first three months of this year helped by one-off capital gains on sale of properties. Profit on sale of properties stood at QR2.7bn, which constituted more than 83 per cent of the net profit for the period.

Faster growth in rents and dividend income led Ezdan Holding Group to report a 13 per cent jump in net profit to QR522.49mn in the first three months of this year. Rental income grew 20 per cent to QR362.94mn,

dividend income from ‘available-for-sale’ financial assets by 14 per cent to QR183.62mn and other net gain on sale of ‘available-for-sale’ financial assets by 1 per cent to QR52.15mn.

United Development Company (UDC) reported an eight per cent jump in net profit to QR261.8mn in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, supported by robust operating earnings.

“I am pleased with our performance as we continue to invest in our capabilities and grow our ranks with the aim of enhancing our market position while we pursue our long-term strategic initiatives,” UDC Chairman and Managing Director Turki al-Khater said.

Margin expansion and robust performance of its realty development led Aamal Company to report a 30 per cent jump year-on-year in net profit to QR115mn in the first three months of this year. Net underlying profit margins (excluding share of profits of equity accounted for investments in associates and joint ventures) improved to 16.5 per cent versus 13.3 per cent in the previous year period.

TelecomMeanwhile, a double-digit increase in earnings from Qatar and Oman helped Ooredoo Group report a consolidated net profit of QR501mn in the first quarter (Q1) of 2015.

23MAY

Ooredoo Qatar’s net profit rose 88 per cent to QR616mn on 18 per cent rise in Ebitda (earnings before interest taxes depreciation and amortisation) to QR980mn and sale of investments. Revenues grew 16 per cent to QR1.99bn and customers by 12 per cent to 3.3mn. However, consolidated net profit fell 43 per cent on stable revenue of QR8.04bn; even as customer base grew 14 per cent.

BankingQNB Group has reported a 10 per cent jump in its net profit to QR2.7bn in the first three months of this year on higher interest and non-interest earnings as well as robust gains from foreign exchange. Corporate

banking contributed QR1.8bn or 67 per cent to net profit, asset and wealth management QR115.87mn or 4 per cent and international banking QR763.21mn or 28 per cent during the first quarter.

Commercial Bank made a good start to the year at the operating level, by posting a first-quarter net profit of QR462.5mn. The Q1 net profit increased by 19.5 per cent compared to QR387mn achieved in the fourth quarter of 2014.

However, due to higher provisioning, the first-quarter financial results represented a 15.7 per cent drop in profitability compared to the same period in 2014, the bank said. The

premier bank’s total assets stood at QR116.1bn in the first quarter, up 1.8 per cent on the same period last year.

Driven by a strategy to “innovate, diversify and capitalise on market synergies”, Doha Bank maintained its strong performance and posted a first-quarter net profit of QR420mn, up 5.2 per cent on the same period last year.

QIB posted a first-quarter net profit of QR400mn, up 19 per cent on the same period in 2014. The bank’s total assets stood at QR99bn in March, up 19 per cent compared with last year, which QIB said was “driven by a continued growth in the core investing and financing activities.”

The bank’s financing activities reached QR65bn in March, which shows an increase of QR15bn (31 per cent) compared to the first quarter in 2014. Customer deposits registered a growth of 21 per cent compared to end-March 2014 and now stand at QR71bn, allowing the bank to achieve a financing to deposit ratio of 91 per cent.

Masraf Al Rayan posted a first-quarter net profit of QR511mn, up 18.1 per cent on the same period in 2014. The bank’s total assets stood at QR83bn in March compared with QR69.3bn in the same period last year, indicating a growth of 19.9 per cent.

Turki al-Khater UDC Chairman and Managing Director

Sheikh Abdulla Ooredoo Chairman

Khalifa Abdulla Turki al-SubaeyQIC Group President and CEO

24 MAY

With each of its business unit in Qatar and abroad registering revenue growth, Al Khalij Commercial Bank (Al Khaliji) posted a first-quarter net profit of QR144.4mn, up 32 per cent on the same period last year. The bank’s total assets reached QR53bn in the first quarter, up 21 per cent on Q1, 2014 and 3 per cent on Q4, 2014.

Ahlibank posted a first quarter net profit of QR169.7mn, up 12.5 per cent on the same period last year. Total loans and advances stood at QR21.4bn in the first quarter, up 1 per cent on December, 2014. The return on average assets stood at 2.31 per cent compared with the ROAA of 2.15 per cent for the year that ended in 2014, Ahlibank said.

Registering “remarkable” growth across various portfolios, QIIB posted a first-quarter net profit of QR212.3mn compared with QR204.1mn in the same period last year. The leading Islamic bank’s total assets stood at QR37bn in the first quarter of this year compared with QR34bn in Q1, 2014. Customer deposits grew by 1.7 per cent and reached QR25.1bn in the first quarter compared with QR24.7bn in the same period in 2014.

Qatar First Bank (QFB), which is seeking listing on the domestic bourse, has reported 13 per cent jump in net profit to QR158.3mn in 2014. The bank approved 8 per cent cash dividend to shareholders at the annual general assembly meeting in Doha.

QFB, in its sixth full year of operation, has invested a total of QR473mn

The bank’s financing activities increased to QR62.8bn in the first quarter of this year compared to QR45.6bn in Q1, 2014. Investments totalled QR14.1bn in March, which indicates a growth rate of 1.7 per cent. Customer deposits reached QR60.8bn in March compared with QR52.3bn in the first quarter of last year. Shareholders’ equity reached QR10.5bn in March compared with QR9.8bn in the same period last year.

Registering growth across all segments, Barwa Bank’s 2014 net

Tamim Hamad al-Kawari QInvest Chief Executive

profit reached QR713mn, up 41.5 per cent on 2013. Total assets grew 14 per cent and reached QR38bn, driven mainly by strong growth in the bank’s financing portfolio, which grew from QR19.3bn to QR23bn, an increase of 19 per cent over 2013.

Barwa Bank’s customer deposits stood at QR21.9bn at end-2014 compared with QR21.2bn in 2013, representing a 3 per cent increase. Earnings per share (EPS) were at QR2.40 in 2014, up 43 per cent on the previous year, the bank said.

25MAY

in 2014 and QR2.4bn since its inception in 21 transactions across various sectors including energy, financial services, industrials, real estate and healthcare across the Gulf Cooperation Council, Middle East and North Africa, Turkey and the UK.

QInvest, Qatar’s leading investment bank, reported a 57 per cent jump in net profit to QR27.21mn in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, supported by its investment banking, principal investments and asset management. The lender’s revenue for Q1 2015 was up 27 per cent to QR75.36mn.

“All three of our key business lines – investment banking, principal investments and asset management – have continued to grow and prosper. We anticipate an active pipeline of activity for the remainder of 2015 and I am confident that we will reach our capital deployment targets for this year,” QInvest Chief Executive Tamim Hamad al-Kawari said.

QInvest’s structured finance business closed about QR364mn new deals in both developed and emerging markets. Additionally, its mergers and acquisitions team is active on a number of buy-side and sell-side mandates across multiple industries and geographies for both family offices and institutional investors.

In Q1 2015, the real estate team secured yielding equity opportunities in the German retail market, additional mezzanine debt transactions in the US and new equity transactions in the Gulf Cooperation Council, the UK and the US are continually being assessed.

InsuranceQatar Insurance Company (QIC) Group posted an impressive double-digit expansion in gross written premium to QR1.92bn in the first three months of this year despite a “highly challenging environment and softening of insurance rates” globally.

The net underwriting result for the quarter was QR248mn, an increase

of 11 per cent on the previous year, a spokesman of the insurer said. Despite a challenging regional investment environment, the group’s net profit for the first quarter of 2015 amounted to QR306mn, down 12 per cent year-on-year. Investment income and other revenues stood at QR216mn compared to QR273mn in the previous year period.

Total assets were valued at QR17.82bn, comprising investments to the tune of QR6.2bn, cash and cash equivalents of QR3.9bn, insurance and other receivables of QR3.47bn and reinsurance contract assets worth QR3.34bn.

RetailHigher sales income and shops rents as well as better cost management helped Al Meera Consumer Goods Company register 10 per cent jump in January-March net profit to QR43.09mn. Sales rose 11 per cent to QR564.15mn but cost of sale

grew 10 per cent to QR472.49mn; nevertheless there was a 17 per cent jump in gross profit to QR91.66mn, according to its financial statement.Shops’ rental income surged 13 per cent to QR11.51mn, which masked the 41 per cent plunge in other income; thereby helping Al Meera report 6 per cent rise in operating income to QR115.12mn.

In the first quarter of 2015, Al Meera opened branches in Muaither and Azizia, and did the soft opening for the Muraikh and Gulf Mall. It is also opening six other branches this year in Jeryan Nejaima, Thakhira, Al Wakrah, Al Thumama, Al Wajba and Rawdat Ekdeem.

In addition, Al Meera is currently constructing 14 new shopping centres in Sailiya North, Bu Sidra, Al Wakrah 2, Umm Salal, Leabaib 1, Leabaib 2, Rawdat Aba El-Herran, Azghawa, Al Khor, Um Qarn, Rawdat Al Hamama, Jeryan Junaihat, Al Sailiya, and Ain Khaled.

26 MAY

Despite its expansion, the company’s general and administrative expenses were up mere 0.45 per cent to QR64.27mn. However, finance costs more than quadrupled to QR0.73mn. Total assets were valued at QR1.99bn comprising current assets of QR0.81bn and non-current assets of QR1.18bn.

IndustriesIndustries Qatar posted a first-quarter net profit of QR951mn, down 40 per cent on the same period last year. “The drop in the first-quarter net profit was a result of a weak product prices following the significant fall in global oil prices,” Industries Qatar said.

Industries Qatar is the holding company of Qafco, Qapco, Qatar Steel and Qafac with a wide range of petrochemical, fertiliser and steel products. Despite the drop in the first-quarter net profit, IQ’s sales volumes went up by more than 20 per cent. It said the group “recorded commendable results” across all segments during the quarter despite facing significant challenges due to an unprecedented 50 per cent drop in global oil prices over the preceding 12 months.

The underlying business nevertheless grew, with “like-for-

like” production levels improving by almost 80,000 tonnes, over the last nine months, IQ said. The company earned revenue of QR1.3bn in the first quarter, down only 0.8 per cent compared to the first quarter of the previous year.

However, on a like-for-like basis, “management reporting revenue” was QR3.8bn, a decrease of 9.4 per cent, compared with the same period in 2014. This year-on-year reduction in revenue, IQ said, was primarily driven by a significant reduction in selling prices across all segments following the oil price decline that began in Q4, 2014.

Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Company (QIMC) has reported a 15 per cent fall year-on-year in net profit to QR39.04mn in the first three months of this year on lower sales and investment income.

Sales fell 3 per cent to QR82.25mn but cost of sales rose 3 per cent to QR68.72mn, resulting in a 23 per cent decline in gross profit to QR13.53mn. Other income was down 2 per cent to QR1.79mn; while general and administrative expenses expanded 1 per cent to QR13.34mn; translating into a 68 per cent plunge in operating profit to QR1.98mn.

Qatar National Cement Company has reported 3 per cent fall in net profit to QR125.76mn in the first three months of this year despite higher sales. Sales rose 4 per cent to QR292.08mn but cost of sales grew faster at 10 per cent to QR164.59mn, leading to a 2 per cent decline in gross profit to QR127.48mn.

The Qatar Electricity and Water Co (QEWC) also reported a15.7 per cent rise in first-quarter net profit. The state-run firm made a profit of QR346mn ($95.06mn) in the three months to March 31, up from QR299mn in the prior-year period, according to a statement to the Qatar Stock Exchange.

Others Aided by robust core earnings, Milaha reported 4 per cent rise in net profit to QR365mn in the first quarter (Q1) of this year. Operating revenues grew 12 per cent to QR786mn and operating profit by 2 per cent to QR279mn, the company said.

“Strong year-on-year growth in the core businesses more than offset a decline in the returns from Milaha’s investment portfolio,” a company spokesman said. Each of Milaha’s core segments – maritime and

An aerial view of Qapco’s facilities in Mesaieed

27MAY

logistics; gas and petrochem as well as offshore – improved their combined bottom line by 71 per cent relative to the first quarter of 2014.

Qatar Gas Transport Co (Nakilat), one of the world’s largest shippers of liquefied natural gas, posted a 7.7 per cent rise in first-quarter net profit. The company made a net profit of QR222.4mn ($61.1mn), it said in a statement. This is up from QR206.5mn a year earlier. QNB Financial Services forecast Nakilat would make a quarterly net profit of QR233.5mn. Nakilat’s quarterly revenue was QR873.2mn, up from QR860.2mn in the corresponding period in 2014.

Gulf International Services (GIS) has posted a first quarter net profit of QR355.7mn, compared with QR188.6mn in the same period last year, the company said. The company’s total assets stood at QR10.9bn in Q1, compared with QR10.8bn in December last year. The earnings per share (EPS) were QR1.91 in the first quarter of this year compared with QR1.01 in the same period last year.

Qatar’s leading logistics provider Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) has made a strong start this year, with its first-quarter net results reaching QR40mn, up 40 per cent on the same period in 2014. This “strong push forward” was reflected in the company’s revenue streams, with total revenues peaking at QR196mn in Q1, up 28 per cent on the same period last year.

Mannai Corporation has posted a first quarter net profit of QR165.2mn, up 10 per cent on the same period last year. Revenue increased 14.33 per cent compared with the same period as last year. Earnings per share rose to QR3.62 in the first quarter from QR3.29 in the same period last year. Return on Equity increased to 32.2 per cent compared to 24.3 per cent for the year that ended in December, 2014.

Capital gains from investment properties and better cost management helped Islamic Holding Group report a 16 per cent jump in net profit to QR3.42mn in the first three months of this year. Net brokerage and commission earnings

rose 2 per cent to QR5.22mn, according to its financial statement filed with the Qatar Stock Exchange.

Lower incomes and higher expenses led Dlala Brokerage and Investments Holding Company to report a 62 per cent plunge in year-on-year in net profit to QR6.43mn in January-March this year. Net brokerage and commission income plunged 21 per cent to QR11.03mn, investment income by 66 per cent to QR2.85mn and interest income by 11 per cent to QR0.33mn. Thus, net operating income fell 42 per cent decline to QR14.21mn.

Higher operating earnings and rental income helped Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution Company register 2 per cent gain year-on-year in net profit to QR4.28mn in the first three months of this year. Operating income rose 6 per cent to QR3.27mn; while direct costs fell 3 per cent to QR3.14mn, according to its financial statement. Thus, the company reported QR0.13mn gross operating profit compared to a loss of QR0.16mn in the previous year period

28 MAY

INTERVIEW — BANKING

TAPPING THE POTENTIALInfrastructure development activity in Qatar has created a waterfall from large developers and construction companies all the way down to small businesses, Niranjan Mendonca of Mashreq Qatar tells M.V.A. Kumar

Mashreq has been providing banking and financial services to millions of customers and businesses since 1967. One of UAE’s leading financial institutions, it has a growing retail presence in the region including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Egypt.

Business@Qatar met Niranjan Mendonca, Head of Retail Banking at Mashreq Qatar, to find out more about what it plans to do in Qatar as the country hits the fast lane of growth in almost every sphere. The excerpts:

With the FIFA World Cup just seven years away and so many ongoing and newly announced projects what opportunities does Mashreq Qatar see as a lender?

From a retail banking perspective, the World Cup presents a wide range

of opportunities. World Cup-related infrastructure projects are

generating thousands of new employment opportunities. All the new employees coming to Qatar need financial services, starting from basic facilities

like a bank account and ATM/debit card, all the way to auto

loans, personal loans, overdrafts, online/mobile banking, insurance and wealth

management solutions.

On the business side, the boost in infrastructure development activity creates a waterfall from large developers/construction companies all the way down to small businesses. Mashreq business banking provides SMEs with branch banking solutions, state-of-the-art online banking as well as a wide variety of financing solutions. Whether an SME needs a letter of credit for QR 20 million, a fast cash loan of QR2 million or a quick overdraft of QR500,000 with minimum documentation requirements, Mashreq is ready to help.

Niranjan MendoncaMashreq Qatar

29MAY

Your bank is an active partner in QDB’s Al Dhameen programme. How is lending to SMEs different from lending to large established companies?

As compared to large companies, lending to SMEs is different, since SMEs often don’t have a track record spanning several decades. In certain cases, SMEs that are extremely profitable may not have professionally managed accounts or financial statements. It’s also not unusual to come across SMEs that have grown their business by 15 times in just two years, while that’s something that rarely happens with large established companies. SMEs also rarely exhibit separation of ownership and management, which is usually the case in large companies.

The role for the bank is to be able to gauge the business’s ambitions, identify owner/manager skills, adjust for any shortcomings in financial reporting, assess repayment ability and partner with the SME in their growth journey.

Which sections of the bank’s clientele have benefited the most from online banking?

Since our online banking platform offers the convenience of banking any time/anywhere, we have seen our online banking usage cutting across all customer segments. An individual who has a salary account and credit card/loan with us can go online anytime to check their balance, review account activity, activate the credit card, change limits on their spouses’ supplementary card and much more – all without leaving the comfort of their home/office.

Priority banking customers with large wealth management relationships with us can, in addition to everything already indicated above, open fixed deposits online, check the coupon payments made on investments and also get in touch with their dedicated relationship manager.

Businesses on the other hand can conduct a detailed review of statements, reconcile cheques/cash deposited, request for issuance of letter of credit or a letter of guarantee, check due dates/amounts and much more.

How successful has Mashreq Qatar been in implementing Qatarisation?

Mashreq has always approached Qatarisation not only as a government requirement, but as Mashreq’s way of contributing to the development of banking skills and expertise in the country, in which we have seen great success.

Mashreq has an exclusive forum of Qatari employees which is used as a platform for all Qatari employees to raise suggestions, ideas and even issues to management. Our Mashreq Learning Systems Centre of Excellence routinely provides Qataris (and other employees) with development, training and seminars/courses on banking technologies, customer services, interpersonal relationships, risk management, finance, strategic management and much more.

We also offer a scholarship programme where the bank pays for the education of Qataris at university, with a guaranteed job offer upon completion of university and, subject to performance, fast-track career growth at Mashreq. This programme has helped attract exceptional talent, the latest example being a female staff member who interned with us, went to university as part of our programme and based on exceptional performance has already been promoted to branch manager.

We value our Qatari employees and look forward to attracting and developing more Qatari talent in the future.

Mashreq employs Qataris at various levels across the bank, including branches, Business Banking, Corporate Banking, Operations, Risk Management, Human Resources, Marketing and many other departments in the bank.

Please tell us more about the objectives in setting up Mashreq Learning Systems Centre for Excellence?

Mashreq has always been a firm believer of practical learning and knowledge sharing. So for example, we ensure staff attend training that are linked to their roles from time to time, this way information is constantly refreshed and we adapt to the growing and ever-changing customer needs and market changes. Mashreq Learning Systems – Centre for Excellence (MLS) is our state-of-the-art individual development facility located at TV Roundabout, Doha.

Mashreq believes in constant upskilling, training and development of our staff. The MLS Centre for Excellence creates and hosts regular programmes to enhance and develop not only the technical banking skills of the staff but also their personal development as well. We are proud to have an in-house training facility that reflects the bank’s commitment to the constant development of its staff.

The MLS Centre of Excellence is Mashreq’s way of contributing to the growth and development of the workforce in Qatar and advancing banking and management skills

30 MAY

ROUNDUP – ENERGY

SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN CUTTING CARBON EMISSIONSJetty Boil-off Gas Recovery Project, the world’s biggest plant of its kind, was inaugurated recently

Qatar is gathering even more gas with a $1bn Jetty Boil-off Gas Recovery (JBOG) Project in Ras Laffan that is recovering what used to be wasted fuel. Starting in October, the plant has recovered gas from over 500 ships.

“We don’t have an expectation of an economic return from the project, but we will benefit from the recovered gas,” Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, Qatar Petroleum’s Chief Executive Officer, said at the inauguration ceremony for the project.

The JBOG has capacity to produce about 100mn cubic feet of natural gas a day, or the equivalent of 600,000 tonnes a year of LNG, making it the world’s biggest plant of its kind. Gas that used to be burned off or lost through evaporation when fuel was loaded on ships is instead being sent to Qatar’s 14 LNG production plants, which had a combined output of about 77mn tonnes last year.

The JBOG Project represents a significant milestone in Qatar’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions from its

liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, Qatargas CEO Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa al-Thani said. The project will result in a 90 per cent reduction in current flaring at Ras Laffan LNG loading berths, equivalent to annual greenhouse gas (GHG) savings of 1.6mn tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is the same amount of annual GHG emissions of 175,000 vehicles, he informed.

He also said the JBOG project will provide savings of 29bn standard cubic feet (bscf) per year flaring reduction, which is enough gas to produce 750MW to power 300,000 homes. “Environmental protection and sustainable development of our natural resources is a key requirement of Qatargas’ direction statement, and is in line with the wider goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

“The Qatar National Development Strategy 2011-2016 calls for halving gas flaring to 0.0115bn cubic metres per million tonnes of energy produced from the 2008 level of 0.0230bn cubic metres per million tonnes, and our

JBOG facility is the main reason that Qatargas has achieved this target well before 2016,” he explained.

According to Sheikh Khalid, the project was designed to recover the boil-off gas from simultaneous multiple ship loadings at Ras Laffan, the world’s largest LNG export terminal and the only facility where six LNG ships can be loaded simultaneously.

“As the -160°C LNG is loaded onto the ships, around 1 per cent of the LNG evaporates (boil-off gas) due to temperature difference between the cold LNG and the warm ship tank. This boiled-off gas is flared at the berth because there is no outlet for the low-pressure gas,” he further explained.

He added that the boil-off gas from the ships will then be transported to a central compressors area where the gas is compressed and then sent back to the LNG plants to be used as fuel gas or converted into LNG.

“The entire boil-off gas train is the largest in the world. Today, there has never been an LP boil-off gas compressor ever built requiring such large volumes at such a low suction pressure,” Sheikh Khalid said.

31MAY

Simulator tech l icence

ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) said ExxonMobil has awarded a global commercial licence for ‘Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator’ technology to co-developer EON Reality.

The innovative technology incorporates “ultra-realistic, multi-angle immersive virtual reality for training process operators and engineers in oil and gas production, processing and transportation facilities.” EMRQ in a release said the technology enables effective training to take place in a safe and controlled environment.

The new technology also supports the development of simulators that combine dynamic process training and fully functional 3D models. These complex models include interactive 3D objects such as rotating valves, push-buttons and active gauges; natural gestures and voice commands; and enhanced 4D sensory conditions including tactile feedback, odours, vibration and wind simulation.

The dynamic process simulator uses actual plant operating conditions to

create realistic training scenarios for critical procedure execution, upset condition training, and emergency response training. Scenarios also can be created for workforce development, competency assurance, project commissioning support, new hire orientation, and more efficient turnaround/shutdown planning.

A full-scale simulator of an actual gas processing facility in Qatar has been operational since 2013, providing realistic training on more than 300 interactive control devices in six gas processing units.

“The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator provides a realistic 3D virtual environment that is a very close replica of an operating plant,” said Sara Ortwein, President of ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company.

These simulators are highly effective in training workers on how to prevent incidents, while teaching them to respond quickly and appropriately should any occur. This technology, developed in co-operation with EON Reality, is another example of how ExxonMobil continues to support research and safety, health and environmental protection across its global operations.

“The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator will change how operators and plant crews train on existing facilities and even before a facility is operational,” said Mats W Johansson, CEO, EON Reality.” Working with ExxonMobil, we have created an immersive training tool to ensure that entire plant operation teams have practised actual procedures together on a virtual facsimile of their plant. This truly is a flight simulator for plant operations.”

The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator technology is the latest demonstration of how scientists and researchers at EMRQ are committed to helping Qatar and other global ExxonMobil partners supply the world with much-needed energy, while improving environmental and operational performance of production facilities.

EMRQ opened its facility at the Qatar Science & Technology Park in 2009 to conduct research in areas of common interest to Qatar and ExxonMobil.

Scientists and researchers at EMRQ continue to advance projects in the areas of environmental management, water reuse, LNG safety and coastal geology

32 MAY

ROUNDUP — BANKING

QATAR MAY FOLLOW FED ON INTEREST RATE HIKEA possible interest rate hike and a report on lending to private sector were under spotlight along with Commercial Bank, Qatar’s first private bank, which marked its 40th anniversary

According to a Samba Financial Group report Qatar Central Bank (QCB) may raise deposit rate in line with Fed policy, with a lag of a month or two. It expects the US to raise rates this year, despite a weak global inflationary picture.

Any QCB decision on deposit rate hike will have “obvious implications for the cost of funding”, Samba said in its report.

However, given “past divergence” a matching rate hiking cycle is not “automatic”, Samba said.

Given the riyal’s peg to the dollar, the “QCB will monitor the Fed’s rate decisions closely”, the report said.

According to Samba, the global outlook for 2015 is one of “significant divergence” amongst both developed and emerging markets (EM).

The US will raise rates later this year on the back of solid growth, despite a global environment of low growth and weak inflation.

“This will contrast with monetary loosening in Europe, Japan, and many EMs (emerging markets),” Samba said.

Private sector lendingAccording to the report, Qatar banks’ lending to the private sector has remained buoyant and is expected to support double-digit credit growth over the next couple of years as activity accelerates in the run-up to FIFA 2022.

But, according to Samba Financial Group, overall lending in Qatar has been soft of late, running at around six per cent mainly due to a pull-back in credit to the public sector.

“The composition of credit growth shows loans to contractors and for consumption expanding at a healthy rate in Qatar,” Samba said in its latest report.

Loans, deposits show growthQatar banking sector’s loan book grew 3.2 per cent month-on-month in March after growing by 1.7 per cent MoM in February, QNB Financial Services (QNBFS) has said in an update.

33MAY

Deposits followed suit and gained 3.1 per cent MoM (+3.3 YTD) in March, QNBFS said. Public sector drove total credit growth with a gain of 4.6 per cent MoM (down 1.3 per cent YTD).

Moreover, public sector deposits ticked up by 1.3 per cent MoM, but were “flattish”, year-to-date (YTD). Thus, the loans to deposit ratio (LDR) remained at 109 per cent in March.

The public sector deposits climbed up 1.3 per cent MoM for March 2015 compared with a robust growth of 5.2 per cent MoM in February. Delving into segment details, the government institutions’ segment (representing 59 per cent of public sector deposits) declined by 6.6 per cent MoM (+4.2 per cent YTD) in March.

The overall loan book continued its “growth trajectory” and “posted healthy performance”. Total domestic public sector loans increased by 4.6 per cent MoM (down 1.3 per cent YTD) compared a marginal growth of 1.5 per cent MoM in February 2015.

The government segment’s loan book expanded by 23.7 per cent MoM (+5.7 per cent YTD). Moreover the government institutions’ segment, which represents 60% of public sector loans, exhibited flattish performance after declining by 2.5 per cent MoM in February (down 2.4 per cent YTD).

However, semi-government institutions’ segment declined by 11.9 per cent MoM (down 12.3 per cent YTD). Hence, the government sub-segment pushed the overall loan book up for the month of March 2015.

Private sector loans grew by 3.1 per cent MoM (+4.7 per cent YTD) in March as opposed to a flattish performance in February. The services segment followed by consumption and others positively contributed toward the loan growth.

QCB and World Bank join handsThe Qatar Central Bank and the World Bank recently launched a programme for technical co-operation in Washington to strengthen financial supervision in Qatar.

The programme will allow the QCB to identify risks in the financial system and mitigate them, which will support the increased flexibility in the financial system of Qatar in the face of the global economic and financial shocks.

Regarding the programme, QCB Deputy Governor Sheikh Fahad bin Faisal al-Thani said the bank continues to update its regulations and abilities to manage risk and maintain financial stability in Qatar’s banking system.

Under the programme, the World Bank will help the QCB improve its performance in monitoring and evaluating the risks that threaten the stability of the financial system based on international best practices

Commercial Bank CEO Abdulla Saleh al-Raisi (centre) with Commercial Bank’s top management team during the media roundtable

34 MAY

in compliance with one of the main goals set by Qatar’s National Development Strategy 2011-2016, a QCB statement said.

Commercial Bank 40th anniversaryCommercial Bank held a series of events recently to mark the 40th anniversary of Qatar’s first private bank and unveiled a unique anniversary logo and corporate anthem as part of the landmark occasion.

The highlight of the celebrations was a public concert at the Museum of Islamic Art Park by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.At a media roundtable at the Commercial Bank Plaza, Commercial Bank CEO Abdulla Saleh al-Raisi said, “2015 is a special year for Commercial Bank as we mark our 40th year as the oldest and largest private sector bank in Qatar. From entrepreneurial beginnings, Commercial Bank has gone from strength to strength driven by the spirit of ambition, entrepreneurship and innovation that our founders believed in and are still at the core of our business.”

“We are proud to be a home-grown Qatari bank with strong roots in Qatar for four decades and we remain wholly committed to Qatar as our source of inspiration. We are optimistic about the future, and look forward to continuing to serve our loyal customers over the next 40 years and beyond under the visionary leadership of HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.”

Doha Bank launches India operationsDoha Bank formally launched its operations in India, Asia’s third largest economy recently, thus becoming the first Qatari bank to establish full-scale banking operations in India.

The Doha Bank branch at Sakhar Bhavan was inaugurated by HE the Minister of Finance Ali Sherif al-Emadi in the presence of India’s Railway Minister, Suresh Prabhu, HE the QCB Governor, Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud al-Thani, Indian ambassador Sanjiv Arora, Qatar ambassador to India,

Abdulla al-Abdulla, Maharashtra ministers, Subhash Desai and Deepak Vasanthrao Kesarkar and prominent Qatari businessman, Yousef Qassem Darwish.

Doha Bank chairman, Sheikh Fahad bin Mohamed bin Jabor al-Thani, managing director Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mohamed bin Jabor al-Thani and Group CEO, Dr R Seetharaman were among the dignitaries present.

The well-attended ceremony at the Trident Hotel here also saw the e-inauguration of Doha Bank, Kochi branch and the launch of Doha Bank (India) website.

With special focus on small and medium enterprises, Doha Bank’s India operations will provide “comprehensive range of financial services by deploying consumer-centric technology and innovative delivery channels.”

Besides Mumbai and Kochi, Qatar’s premier bank is also looking to open a branch in Chennai.

Promoting Islamic finance in ChinaQIIB and QNB Capital have joined hands with Southwest Securities (SWSC) to promote Islamic financing and investments in China.Chinese brokerage Southwest Securities is based in Chongqing, one of the five “listed central cities” in China. Southwest Securities is also Chongqing’s first listed

financial institution. An agreement was signed in Doha recently on the sidelines of an event held to formally open the Middle East’s first centre for clearing transactions in the Chinese yuan. QIIB Chief Executive Officer Abdulbasit A al-Shaibei told Gulf Times yesterday the “partnership would help create a framework for Islamic financing” in China.

Besides helping Southwest Securities to access investor markets in Qatar and the Middle East, the agreement also aims to open the Chinese market for both QIIB and QNB Capital.

“We are looking to access the Chinese market for financing and investments, either directly or indirectly,” al-Shaibei said.

QIB wins awardQatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has been adjudged the “Best Islamic Bank in Qatar” by Islamic Finance News, based on its financial results, achievements, and major financing deals in 2014.

The Islamic Finance News award honours leading institutions in the Islamic finance industry, and is recognised as one of the top awards by global Islamic capital markets. A panel of experts from non-competing organisations examines all submissions during an elimination process until one candidate in each category remains

Doha Bank launches its full-scale India operations

35MAY

Qatar has six brands out of the top 50 brands in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region in 2015, with a combined brand value of $8.2bn, according to a recent study published by brand valuation and strategy consultancy firm Brand Finance.

The study, The Brand Finance Mena 50, reported that Qatar Airways was the fourth most valuable brand in the Mena, with a brand value of $27bn, followed by QNB in the fifth position, with brand value of $2.6bn, and Ooredoo at the 11th spot, with brand value of $1.7bn.

Also included in the list were Commercial Bank (41st) with a brand value of $413mn, Doha Bank (47th) valued at $358mn, and Qatar Islamic Bank (48th) with a $317mn brand value.

QA awardsMeanwhile, Qatar Airways was on an award-winning spree. It was named Airline with the Best Business Class at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2015, based on votes by readers of the Middle East edition of industry magazine *Business Traveller.

Recently the national carrier also “emerged victorious” at the award

BRAND EQUITY

SIX QATARI BRANDS AMONG MENA TOP 50Brand Finance’s study placed Qatar Airways as the fourth most valuable brand in the Mena followed by QNB in the fifth position

Seneviratne receiving the award from Faisal Salem bin Haider,

Executive Director for Printing and Distribution Sector at Dubai

Media Incorporated

time percentage, low cost to check bags and average age of airline fleet.

At the eighth Annual TTG China Travel Awards held in Shanghai recently, Qatar Airways was voted best Middle Eastern airline servicing China. The win marks the fourth time the airline has received this accolade from TTG China

night in Hamburg for “offering excellence in delivering a premium five-star on-board product” to its passengers.

The Onboard Hospitality Awards recognised the airline’s Missoni sleeper suits as the best in ‘Textiles’ category, chosen through an online vote and judged by an independent panel of industry experts against set criteria.

The airline also received two Gold Awards for its new first and business class amenity kits at the 2014 TravelPlus Awards. It won gold for its exclusive Giorgio Armani Fragrances & Beauty first class male amenity kit and the business class Middle East amenity kit.

Qatar Airways, one of the select few carriers with a Skytrax five-star ranking for service excellence, was the only airline to receive two Gold Awards at the event, according to a statement.

Earlier, Qatar Airways was also named the “World’s Most Dependable Airline” in a comprehensive study of all major carriers, published by CBS MoneyWatch and conducted by recognised travel site, WanderBat.

It was chosen to lead a select list of 22 international airlines based on on-

36 MAY

ARCHITECTURE

Hi! I am, Roshan Cherri, an Australian architect, who is now based in Doha and believes in a new way of thinking architecture and sub-systems of the Earth. This is an architecture which would help society and community to thrive by creating positive energy.

It would mean abundance and not just sustainability through the direct application of the principles of Gold Architecture (Beyond Sustainability). I had the privilege of sharing this with people in talk presentations and on a personal note with ministers of various countries and other dignitaries from around the world. I have also demonstrated this principle in some of our projects, designs and am happy to share it more to create

a new paradigm in architecture and make a change by renewing, redeeming and purifying our Earth.

THE MESSAGE: “It’s time to move beyond the paradigms of green and sustainability by moving one step forward”Man has always been an imitator of nature and a partaker of it. He has, however, always done this at a superficial level without actually intertwining with the kingdoms of nature. The Beyond Sustainability

theory is now a worldwide movement which strives to salvage the situation and redeem the mistakes committed by man, like global warming, deforestation and so on

Sustainability has been discussed much and very frequently these days all over the world, in fact, it has been overused and even used as a tag to sell and promote developments and projects around the world. It feels like it’s the in thing and trend. Every trend needs to make a change. But does it really change the environment? Is it an active action of changing?

In reality, the way in which we define sustainability would mean ‘Sustain the Destroyed Earth’ and this will

BUILDINGS NOT GREEN BUT GOLD!

Gold Futuristic Architect and Beyond Sustainable – Brand Ambassador Roshan Cherri shares his message for the future and Gold Architecture

Lusail Futuristic Hotel and Office Tower

37MAY

not help us to make a change or deliberately renew or redeem.

Beyond sustainable in architecture would mean the art of creating sub-systems of environment for a deliberate renewal of the Earth. It needs to be seen as the art of creation (designing sub-systems) in a different manner where fabric and space, which are the two derivatives seen producing ‘gold’ and energy and renewing byproducts. Such systems not only renew the Earth, but also renew the people living on it, thus bringing the ‘gold’ out of people by using space and place. Both space and places are created by architects and this needs to be not just beyond sustainable, but also fruitful and thriving. It’s not just

the Earth that is getting destroyed , we too are getting destroyed. The vast expanse of air column and water can manage the damage.

A very good example would be Google’s offices and environment which are broadly based on this principle. We need to design

buildings, cities and use materials which purify the air, water and supply oxygen. Create a space for caring, sharing and collaboration instead of smoke-breathers, factories. We have been very much working towards this goal of deliberate action towards redemption, getting back what we lost, correcting our mistakes.

Roshan Cherri is the CEO / Principal Architect for Studio Cherri of Doha Design Center (DDC) located in Doha, Qatar. He is also “Brand Ambassador” for “Beyond Sustainable Architecture “TM” around the world. All the views mentioned here are his own.

Crown Hotel Gold Complex, Melbourne

Beyond sustainable architecture is a new way of thinking and designing the latest ideas in architecture using robots and futuristic

ideas to build futuristic structures”

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What is beyond sustainabil ity?

It’s the design of the world for tomorrow. Beyond Sustainable Architecture (BSA) is a new way of thinking and designing the latest in architecture using robots and futuristic ideas to build futuristic structures. It’s all about seeing the external ‘Fabric’ architecture and internal ‘Space’ architecture in a totally different manner, beyond just sustainability and interesting forms of shapes and icons for a place.

BSA creates a new paradigm by elevating it to the new level of building relics for future. These will be not just icons but responsible structures that respect nature and mankind. The two ways in which we see it are the rethinking in External BSA and Internal BSA. It’s the manner in which an architect can create ‘Gold’ externally from the fabric of the building and create ‘Gold’ within a person by using the space to serve the purpose of the people using the space in a manner that enhances the potential of the individuals using it. Thus a thriving, caring and collaborative environment is created. It’s an architecture where form follows purpose instead of function. BSA thus creates a new paradigm of ‘form following purpose’.

StatisticsHigh-performing Gold buildings provide the best value to the public through both life-cycle cost benefits and positive effects on human health and performance. A recent study of GSA’s 12 earliest Gold federal buildings shows energy use is down 26 per cent and occupant satisfaction up 27 per cent, compared to commercial office benchmark data. More importantly, the top third of the studied buildings, which use an integrated design approach, deliver significantly better

results with 45 per cent less energy consumption, 53 per cent lower maintenance costs, and 39 per cent less water use. A recent report by CoStar, a major real estate transaction information collection company, shows that Gold buildings, in general, also have lower vacancy rates. According to the 2008 McGraw-Hill Construction Smart Market Report: Key Trends in the European and US Construction Marketplace, operating costs for gold buildings are on average 8 to 9 per cent lower, building values are 7.5 per cent higher, buildings have a 3.5 per cent greater occupancy ratio, and Gold buildings provide a 6.6 per cent total returns on investment.

With the above-mentioned long-term operating cost benefits, the life-cycle cost of Gold buildings is lower than the life-cycle costs of those that are not. Even the initial capital costs are not necessarily higher, and when they are, only marginally so. A 2007 study by Davis Langdon shows that Gold building aspects tend to have a lesser impact on costs than other building decisions, such as which kind of finishes and amenities the building might provide.

Our Vison is to see a house like a tree and a city like a garden bringing in happiness and joy to all sub-systems on this Earth. It’s an attempt to create a thriving environment and collaboration.

BENEFITS OF BSA Beyond Sustainable building requires that architects, engineers and contractors all co-create and intertwine with the environment focusing on renewable energy, energy-producing nano materials, water conservation, site development and indoor environmental quality to produce ‘gold’ both externally and internally.

The benefits of Beyond Sustainable building can be generally categorised in the following ways – environmental benefits, economic benefits and social benefits.

Environmental benefits The whole purpose of sustainable building is to add to our environment and avoid the depletion of the Earth’s natural resources. When additions are made throughout each phase of the project’s development, it allows us to share the resources and add to the ecosystem by purifying the air and water quality; Reducing waste streams; Waste conversion; Producing purified water and air; Restoring natural resources; Temperature control – macroclimatic.

Economic benefitsNot only do sustainable buildings improve the quality of our environment but they also offer many economic benefits as well. By using sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption, and improving water efficiency it will enable you to: Produce energy for the surrounding infrastructure; Help aid in the expansion of the “Gold Market”; Save money through lower operating costs; Supply of energy to the grid; Optimise the life cycle of the building; Increase property value; Improve occupants’ attendance and productivity.

Social benefitsCreates space which enhances creativity, destiny and purpose; space of collaboration, sharing without self spaces; Improves occupants’ comfort and health; create an aesthetically pleasing environment; minimises strain on local infrastructure; increases occupants’ overall morale; improves worker productivity.

39MAY

ROUNDUP — TRADE

QATAR POSTED QR16.47BN TRADE SURPLUS IN MARCHThe precipitous fall in the country’s trade surplus is reflective of the considerable drop in the energy prices. Qatar has strengthened trade ties with the US and UK

Qatar’s trade surplus in March 2015 stood at QR16.47bn, more than half of that in the previous year period mainly due to substantial fall in exports of crude, non-crude and natural gas as well as higher imports, official figures suggest.

The precipitous fall in the country’s trade surplus is rather reflective of the considerable drop in the energy prices, which is at least 40 per cent lower than the 2014 levels, owing to lower demand and increase in the supply from the US and other non-Opec producers.

The trade surplus of energy-major Qatar, which is now vehemently on diversification path, plummeted 53.7 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) in March as shipments to key Asian markets were on the decline, said the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics (MDPS).

Merchandise trade surplus fell 9.6 per cent compared to that in February 2015 as there was double-digit decline in the exports of crude.

The country’s total exports (valued free-on-board) plunged 40.7 per cent y-o-y to QR26.59bn and it reported 3.3 per cent fall month-on-month.

The MDPS, in its Qatar Economic Outlook 2014-16 Update, had cautioned that a prolonged weakening of oil prices

could pose a key downside risk to the economic outlook.

Japan continued to be the top destination of Qatar’s exports in March 2015; followed by South Korea, India, China and the UAE.

The country’s total exports of domestic products tanked 41.7 per cent y-o-y to QR25.82bn in March 2015 and were down 3.9 per cent against February this year.

Qatar’s exports of crude declined 52.1 per cent y-o-y to QR3.49bn, petroleum gases and other gaseous hydrocarbons by 43.5 per cent to QR17.43bn, non-crude by 36.9 per cent to QR1.21bn and other commodities by 13 per cent to QR3.68bn.

Qatar-US tradeMeanwhile, bilateral trade with the US has been steadily rising with Doha accounting for more than $5bn US imports in 2014, according to a release. The trade volume between the two countries recorded $3.75bn in 2013, the Qatar Businessmen Association (QBA) said. Last year, the bilateral trade increased 86 per cent.

The strong Qatar-US bilateral relationship was highlighted at a luncheon recently hosted in honour of a top-level US delegation led by US Undersecretary of

Nicholas Hopton British ambassador

40 MAY

Commerce for International Trade Stefan Selig by the QBA Second Deputy Chairman Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani al-Thani at his majlis in Doha.

The QBA said Qatar was ranked the fourth largest destination for US exports in the Middle East and North Africa, while the US served as the largest foreign investor and exporter to Qatar.

“With the value of US imports exceeding $5bn in 2014, in-demand American products include Boeing aircraft, cars, and trucks, which saw an increase in sales last year,” the QBA said.

Commercial t ies with Latin AmericaQatar is seeking to strengthen relationships and create partnerships with Latin America, which represents a “promising” market for the country, according to HE the Foreign Minister Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah.

Highlighting the exchange of visits to various Latin American countries at the highest level in view of the strengthening relations, al-Attiyah said this led to the signing of several agreements in 2014, especially in the areas of economic co-operation and trade.

“Qatar is seeking to further these relationships and create partnerships based on greater co-operation and common interests, especially considering this region has a great variety of economic and commercial possibilities, and represents a promising market for Qatar,” he said in an interview to Oxford Business Group.

Just as the work of the country has focused on the development of relations and partnerships with many European and Asian countries, Qatar is also seeking to strengthen relations with various Latin American countries, he said.

Early this year, Qatar’s ambassador to Caracas, Battal Meajeb al-Dosari said the country is targeting investments in Venezuela’s mining and tourism

sectors; while there have also been reports that Qatar Airways is eyeing Barcelona as a potential intermediate hub for its flights between the Middle East and Latin America.

Qatar is working to further promote and develop co-operation with all countries, as well as with global organisations, and to foster the development of bilateral and multilateral relations to serve the public policy of the state, al-Attiyah said.

“These relationships work to support the economic vision adopted by Qatar’s leadership through the strengthening of political and economic partnerships with numerous countries,” he said.

This foreign policy is particularly important, he said, as it has transformed the bilateral relationships between Qatar and other countries into strategic partnerships based on a framework of economic, commercial, cultural and political co-operation.

UK exports jumped 74%The UK-Qatar economic partnership is currently very strong in both directions with the two countries having seen a jump in bilateral trade figures last year, British ambassador Nicholas Hopton told Gulf Times recently.

UK exports to Qatar posted a 74 per cent surge compared to the 2013 figures, Hopton said. On the other hand, Qatar’s trade with UK and its investment in the country are also growing from strength to strength, he said.

“The Qatar Investment Authority had bought the holding company for a lot of big hotels in London, very famous hotels,” he said. “Qatar owns most of Claridge’s hotel and more recently a few weeks ago, it was concluded for Qatar to buy the remaining part of Canary Wharf in the city, east part of London.”

Trade volume between Qatar and the UK reached around $4bn in 2014, about $2.5bn of which was derived from goods and another $1.5bn from services

The strong Qatar-US bilateral relationship was highlighted at a luncheon recently hosted in honour of a top-level US delegation led by US Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade Stefan Selig by the QBA Second Deputy Chairman Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani al-Thani in Doha.”

Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani al-Thani (right) and other dignitaries receive US Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade Stefan Selig

41MAY

HR POLICIES

Managing incompetent employees is every company’s worst nightmare, but it is important to find out if the employee is only de-motivated or truly incompetent, writes R. Ramesh

STRATEGIC INCOMPETENCE

“Give my 100 per cent for the same salary? Not my cup of tea boss!” Lack of timely incentives and motivation often prompt some employees to adopt this kind of attitude. It instigates them to deliberately perform a task poorly so as to discourage being assigned the task again, but not poorly enough to be fired.

The Human Resource Department plays a key role in indentifying such employees and developing strategies to exploit their complete potential.

“Understanding the employee’s motivations and clear communication are the best ways to tackle this problem,” says Clair Mayler Madigan, Recruitment Consultant at RecruiteME.

If the work is outside of their day-to-day role, the questions to be asked, according to her, are: Is the extra

work, that the employees are being asked to undertake, something that stretches their capabilities and could help to lead them to career growth in the future?

Most employees will gladly take on a project to showcase their eagerness to grow in their current position and be considered for a promotion. Is it something for which they would get paid overtime or could they be given time off in lieu of it?

Putting in extra hours because a colleague is on holiday or maternity leave is a great chance for employees to ask for extra compensation or an extended holiday for themselves when the colleague returns to work. Is it something that will benefit the company as a whole and lead to profit-sharing in the future?

“Employees are more likely to go the extra mile for the company they

42 MAY

work for, when they can see that the effort they put in is directly linked to the company’s success and therefore their own job security,” insists Clair.Most employees are not motivated by money alone and a mixed approach is best.

In a region where work/life balance is generally neglected giving employees the opportunity to work flexible hours, take unpaid leave, work from home, advance their studies or spend time on a charitable project can be a much more effective motivational tool than a pay rise or bonus, Clair points out. A simple heartfelt “thank you” directly from a senior member of staff can make all the difference to an employee who is feeling under-appreciated and overworked.

“If the work has been described clearly, with start and end dates if applicable, the training necessary to help them be successful and the promise of a review to assess their contribution, most employees will react positively. If a clear benefit has been proposed and the employee is reacting negatively, they may be in the wrong role and no compensation monetary or otherwise will motivate them,” sums up Clair.

Nitin Anand, COEC, Skyline University College, says it is not necessary that employees who act dumb at workplace are incapable, it may be that they just don’t want to be perturbed.

At times a person feigns incompetence out of sheer laziness. There are also instances, when people who seem to be feigning incompetence are actually incompetent.

The ways Nitin suggests for dealing with such employees include:

• Additional training, closer supervi-sion and precisely defined duties and tasks.

• Rewarding them when they do the right thing, be it verbally or with tangible rewards like a free lunch or salary raise or whatever is in the power of the managers to do.

• For employees who never step up on big assignments, he suggests giving them non-time-sensitive as-signments that require some critical thinking

• Having a firm deadline or periodic check-in meetings, depending on the size of the project, and sticking to it.

Managing incompetent employees is every company’s worst nightmare. There is no workplace that does not have such people.

“The trick is to smartly manage incompetent employees without getting into a messy situation. And that trick is monetising performance. Though monetary compensation is not feasible all the time, but it surely works,” avers Nitin. “While no special training is needed to deal with incompetent employees, a few organisational steps and counselling can go a long way.”

Sacking may not be the sole option always. Termination can be distressing and involves emotional strain for both the employee as well as the employer. There are also legal consequences involved.

“It is advisable to make sure the incompetent employee understands that he needs to change his working style. If he changes, it is good for the company as it won’t have to go through the painful firing-hiring process. Get an agreement on their goals and deadlines in writing and make the employee sign the deal. This written document will help analyse the work progress of the employee,” advises Nitin.

There are always reasons why an employee may no longer be motivated. “Job progress stagnation, a non-conducive work environment, lack of incentives etc. are all factors that can contribute to this,” explains Colin Saldanha, Managing Director of Procre8.

It is the role of a good manager and HR team to identify and quickly address these concerns before they

Sacking may not be the sole option always. Termination can be distressing and involves emotional strain for both the employee as well as the employer. There are also legal consequences involved.”

43MAY

snowball into bigger issues. Setting metrics to which an employee’s performance can be graded is a good way of creating accountability. Regular reporting and regular briefing meetings are also a good way of keeping track of what employees are doing.

Is monetary compensation the best solution? “The phrase ‘best solution’ is ambiguous as what the employee may consider to be the best could vary quite drastically from what the business perceives to be the same,” argues Colin.

Of course, due to budget constraints and other factors, it may not always be possible to simply address the problem with monetary compensation. This route also tends to serve only as a quick fix.

“An employee who is disgruntled by factors such as lack of recognition, a hostile work environment etc. would

find little long-term benefit from a monetary bonus which doesn’t tackle the root cause of his/her frustration,” feels Colin.

Studies have shown that one of the top reasons why employees leave organisations is the lack of development opportunities and growth in career prospects.

According to Colin, if a candidate had suspiciously short tenures at well reputed firms, there is a chance that something is amiss.

Entrepreneur and business owner Suresh Gandhi believes that incompetence can be managed, but employees feigning incompetence deliberately are definitely a huge challenge for companies. If someone is basically incompetent, the company can ensure improvement in the skill sets through proper training mechanism.

“When an employee feigns incompetence, his or her failure to improve could lead to unhappy customers, operational inefficiencies, and ultimately dropping bottom lines,” says Suresh. “A formal review system should be put in place to alert the said employee of the needed improvements in his or her work ethics and performance.”

The most appropriate option would be to install a well-monitored performance appraisal strategy. This will help review performance, compare it with the standards required, identify deviations and take prompt corrective actions.

“If this does not get corrected over time and subsequent evaluation reveals continuous dereliction of duties, then the company does not have any option but to dismiss the said employee for ineptitude,” says Suresh.

As he puts it, ultimately the shield used by the employee to avoid work could cost his or her job!

The most appropriate option would be to install a well-monitored performance appraisal strategy. This will help review performance, compare it with the standards required, identify deviations and take prompt corrective actions.”

44 MAY

EDUCATION

TAKING MARKETING TO A NEW LEVEL

College of Business & Economics is offering a new two-year

Master of Science in Marketing programme. Business@Qatar

managed to get the details

The Department of Management and Marketing, College of Business & Economics, Qatar University, provides students with an innovative and applied education in management and marketing to prepare them for leadership and positions of responsibility in public and private organisations.

The department’s faculty members are reputed for drawing on insights they have gained from their research and industry experience to provide students with a relevant and solid education that prepares them for top management and leadership positions in business.

Business@Qatar interviewed Dr Rana Sobh, Associate Professor, Dept. of Management and Marketing, to find out more about its latest graduate programme in marketing. The excerpts:

What is College of Business & Economics, Qatar University’s new graduate programme called and when is it starting?

It is a Master of Science in Marketing and it will start in September 2015.

Are you partnering with any other institutions for this programme?

It is a programme fully offered by the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University. Students can have an area of focus in sports marketing and we might collaborate in offering this area with ESSEC Business School – Paris (students and faculty exchange).

Is it College of Business & Economics, Qatar University’s first graduate programme?

No. we have an MBA and Master of Accounting. So this is the third graduate programme offered by the college.

What are the distinctive features of this new programme, compared to those offered by other institutions in Qatar?

Some of the programme’s distinctive features that create our competitive advantage compared to other similar programmes are having:

• Two tracks: a thesis track that would appeal to those desiring to develop their academic skills and probably a PhD degree and would as a result feed in our PhD programme and a non-thesis track that would accom-modate middle to upper level professionals, who desire to acquire deep competencies in the field to further their professional careers.

• The programme also emphasises applied education through the concept of corporate mentors. Corporate mentors are successful individuals in leading marketing positions in a diverse range of industries. Each student will be required to select a corporate mentor at the beginning of the programme, to interact with throughout the programme. Students will be encouraged to work on assignments and projects suggested by their cor-porate mentors. These will eventually form an advisory board for the MSc, making recommendations on cur-riculum and course content.

Dr Rana Sobh Associate Professor,

Dept. of Management and Marketing

45MAY

• It offers an area of focus on sports marketing; an area witnessing an increased interest globally and locally. This interest is intensified as a result of the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup and many other mega regional and inter-national sport events organised by Qatar. This focus area would prepare our graduates for leadership positions in sports organisations.

Has the admission process begun?

Yes. It is open now through QU graduate admissions link on QU website until June 7.

What would be the student intake and duration of the course?

We expect to take a maximum of 15 students next year. The programme duration is two years. Students can take a maximum of three courses per semester and a minimum of two.

If the demand is more, what would be the criteria for selection?

A good GPA (minimum 2.8), English language proficiency. Experience in the field is preferred, especially for students who opt for the non-thesis track but not mandatory. The main criteria is commitment, focus and determination which we will determine through the personal interviews we would conduct with applicants who meet our minimum criteria.

Are you targeting full-time fresh graduates or part-time working people through this programme?

Both. Students can work full-time since our classes are in the evening. But it might be easier if they work only part-time since the programme is very demanding.

What is the fee structure and how does this compare with similar programmes currently on offer in Qatar?

QR2000 per credit hour. The programme requires a total of 30 credit hours.

Would you also be offering placement to successful students?

Working with corporate mentors would provide students with networking and employment opportunities after graduation.

Are there any modules which will be useful to budding entrepreneurs, particularly those planning to enter the SME sector?

All marketing modules will be relevant. Marketing should be a guiding principle in every organisation. All marketing functions such and identifying market opportunities, market research, understanding consumer needs etc. are at the heart of entrepreneurship

46 MAY

The partnership between enterprise IT departments and their suppliers has never been more important. With managers increasingly driving technology decisions, the need for CIOs and their teams to remain in control is paramount to IT’s success in delivering business outcomes.

Key to this is the way organisations choose their vendors. Trust is a fleeting notion in the technology industry, with emerging

trends placing unprecedented pressure on vendor profit margins, revenue expectations, R&D budget allocations, product planning strategies, and acquisition/divestiture plans. Indeed, the only certainty for end-user organisations in today’s technology landscape is that change is an ever-present obstacle that must be both anticipated and scaled with the least negative impact possible.

It is for this reason that I am increasingly being approached by IT and business executives looking to re-evaluate their vendor selection criteria. In this column I will run through the key issues that customer organisations must comprehend if they are to reduce their exposure to vendor-related risk, as well as significantly strengthen their leverage

during contract negotiations.

First is changes in executive and senior management. Unfortunately, these are an unavoidable reality when dealing with vendors in today’s highly competitive marketplace. But such events can have a tremendous impact on corporate strategies, budget allocations, staffing levels and product capabilities. Therefore, it is crucial that customer organisations develop a clear picture of a vendor’s future direction when, for example, a new CEO is appointed.

Acquisitions and divestitures are another inevitable hazard when dealing with tech vendors. I urge customer organisations to gain as much knowledge as possible regarding any integration plans, technology roadmaps, leadership

INFOTECH

PARTNERSHIP KEY TO SUCCESSJyoti Lalchandani of International Data Corporation writes about reducing vendor-related risks through best-practice selection criteria

Jyoti Lalchandani is Group Vice-President and Regional Managing Director for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey at global ICT market intelligence and advisory firm International Data Corporation (IDC). The views expressed are his own

47MAY

changes, and timelines associated with an acquisition. In the case of divestitures, they should look to find out why the vendor is exiting a particular product line and consider what business unit might be next.

Staff reductions are also a common vendor response to mounting business pressures, and they can increase the level of end-user risk in a number of ways: product development can slow, sales relationships can be compromised and customer support can drop. For many vendors, their sales teams serve as the key stakeholders between client and vendor, so any disruptions in this area can be particularly troublesome; important customer knowledge and strategic perspectives are often lost, and both can take a long time to rebuild. For this reason, I encourage customers to develop a deep understanding of their vendor’s sales reporting structures and establish multiple relationships. Never become reliant on just one point of contact.

Another key consideration is product commitment. Every vendor allocates development budgets to its various business units and product lines. Customers should inquire about when that budget cycle starts and be aware that budget reductions often hinder the vendor’s ability to execute product capabilities in a timely fashion. If executive stakeholders in product management change, be sure to understand why the changes have happened and be more suspect of the vendor’s commitment to that product line. It’s important for customers to know what is being prioritised internally, and that is particularly true with vendors that offer both products and SaaS solutions for the same capability set.

Too often, vendors’ corporate strategies are non-existent, misunderstood, poorly communicated or not aligned with what the individual business units are executing. Business

unit strategies should be the execution

machine for any corporate strategy, so customers must

ensure that a vendor’s sales and product teams can articulate both

the corporate strategy and their role in its execution. If the business unit in question has its own

strategy in place, customer organisations should develop a clear understanding of how it impacts their product prioritisation, long-term roadmap planning and ability to obtain R&D budgets.

Included at some level within these corporate strategies will be partnerships; but it is important to understand that some of these tie-ups matter more than others. For example, some partnerships are for product development, while others are for the purposes of driving broader field/sales engagement or facilitating the expansion of professional services. As such, I urge customers to have a concise insight into exactly what each vendor partnership means to their relationship and how it may potentially impact their business.

What is abundantly clear is that fast-moving technology and business trends are placing a heavy burden on both sides of the market, with vendors increasingly unable to meet customer requirements and agreed-upon demands. These stormy waters only serve to raise the risk profile of customer organisations and heighten the potential for IT to fail in its quest to deliver the desired business outcomes.

While there is no way to predict the future, the vendor selection criteria I’ve outlined above provide a roadmap for IT and business executives to better understand the inherent risk associated with any given vendor. “Fail to prepare, prepare to fail,” goes the old adage, and it couldn’t be more true when it comes to selecting the right technology vendor

48 MAY

STOCK REVIEW

BOURSE CROSSES THE 12,500 LEVELDespite some initial weakness the stock market vaulted, spurred by stronger buying interests, particularly in the mid and small-cap segments

During the four-week review period between April 19 and May 14 the Qatar Stock Exchange index rose nearly 623 points to reach 12,515.86 points, mainly powered by insurance and real estate stocks.

On April 19, the very first day of the review period the Qatar Stock Exchange index edged down 0.7 per cent to 11892.95 points. The following day the index edged up merely 0.2 per cent to 11915.76 points, largely because petrochemicals and metals company Industries Qatar fell 1.1 per cent, having posted a 40 per cent drop in first-quarter net profit.

The firm reported a profit of QR951mn for the three months to March 31, while analysts polled by Reuters had on average expected QR1.11bn.

Buying interests — particularly in the consumer goods, banks and real estate stocks — on April 21 led the Qatar Stock Exchange to gain 62 points and inch near the 12,000 mark. Institutional investors’

buying support lifted the 20-stock Qatar Index 0.52 per cent to 11,977.35 points as trade volumes also expanded.

Small, micro and mid-cap stocks notably outperformed the main index in the bourse, which was however down 2.51 per cent year-to-date. Local and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) retail investors resorted to profit-booking in the market; where overall trading volume was skewed towards banks, realty and consumer goods stocks, which together accounted for about 80 per cent.

Market capitalisation rose 0.67 per cent or more than QR4bn to QR643.78bn with small, micro, mid and large cap stocks gaining 1.51 per cent, 0.83 per cent, 0.7 per cent and 0.56 per cent respectively.

The following day, QSE index added another 15.26 points. On April 23, the Qatar Stock Exchange surpassed the psychological barrier of 12,000 points on buying support from domestic and foreign institutions.

49MAY

Buying interests – particularly in real estate and industrials – lifted the index 0.48 per cent to 12,049.85 points amid fall in trade volumes. Small-cap stocks outperformed the main index in the bourse, which was however down 1.92 per cent year-to-date.

However, local retail investors’ net selling strengthened and the GCC institutions had bearish outlook on the market, where overall trading was skewed towards realty, banks and consumer goods stocks, which together accounted for more than 77 per cent of the volume.

Market capitalisation rose 0.38 per cent, or more than QR2bn, to QR646.93bn with small, micro and large cap stocks gaining 0.52 per cent, 0.48 per cent and 0.34 per cent respectively, even as mid-caps fell 0.38 per cent.

Realty stocks appreciated 0.79 per cent, followed by industrials (0.6 per cent), consumer goods (0.29 per cent), banks and financial services (0.21 per cent), transport and telecom (0.19 per cent each), and insurance (0.09 per cent).

Major movers included QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatari Investors Group, Gulf International Services, Barwa, Ezdan and Mazaya Qatar; even as Commercial Bank, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Vodafone Qatar bucked the trend.

Qatar Stock Exchange opened the following week on April 26 with a minor correction that led to a loss of 10 points; but overall the bourse remained above the 12,000 level. Both domestic and foreign institutions were showed less inclination towards buying as the Qatar Index fell 0.08 per cent to 12,040.06 points with trade volumes also on the decline.

Mid and large-cap stocks witnessed the maximum selling pressure in the bourse, which was down 2 per cent year-to-date. Market capitalisation was down 0.11 per cent, or QR72mn.

Major losers included QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, QIIB, Masraf Al

Rayan, Aamal Company, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Gulf International Services, Ooredoo, Vodafone Qatar and Nakilat. However, Industries Qatar, Mazaya Qatar, Doha Bank, Ezdan Holding, United Development Company and Barwa bucked the trend.

The bullish scenario in the global crude prices and first-quarter corporate earnings lifted sentiments

Stock Exchange to gain another 38 points to inch near the 12,250 mark on April 29. Buying interests in the industrials, consumer goods and banking overcame the strong selling pressure in the real estate counter as the QSE index settled 0.32 per cent higher at 12,248.35 points on more than doubled trade volumes.

On April 30, the bourse snapped a three-day bullish spell to lose 84

on the Qatar Stock Exchange on April 27, which amassed 152 points to inch near the 12,200 mark. Foreign institutions’ buying interests were instrumental in lifting the 20-stock Qatar Index by 1.26 per cent to 12,192.15 points as trade volumes almost tripled.

The slowdown in US shale oil production and the conflict in Yemen lent bullish support to the crude market. Small and mid-cap stocks witnessed the maximum buying interests in the bourse, which was, however, down 0.76 per cent year-to-date.

Net buying support from domestic and GCC institutions led the Qatar

points and settled below the 12,200 mark; dragged by realty, industrials and banking stocks. Lower net buying interests of domestic institutions and higher net profit-booking intensity of their foreign counterparts led the Qatar Index to knock off 0.68 per cent to 12,164.48 as trade volumes also declined.

On May 3, transport and consumer goods stocks led QSE to open the week on a stronger note. Stronger net buying by domestic institutions as well as GCC individuals helped the index gain 0.25 per cent to 12,195.04 amid a fall in trade volumes.

However, local retail investors turned bearish and their GCC counterparts’

50 MAY

net buying weakened in the market, where trading was skewed towards realty, banking and consumer goods stocks, which together accounted for about three-fourth of the overall volume.

On May 4, the Qatar Stock Exchange lost 72 points on increased net selling pressure from foreign institutions and the bearish outlook of the GCC individuals and institutions.

Substantial buying in insurance, real estate and industrials stocks on May 6 led the Qatar Stock Exchange to surpass the 12,300 level with ease. GCC institutions’ bullish outlook and increased net buying support from domestic and foreign institutions helped the index surge 1.04 per cent to 12,334.06 as trade volumes also grew.

Small and mid-cap stocks were high in demand in the bourse, which

consumer goods and real estate stocks. Bearish domestic and GCC institutions were instrumental in dragging the Qatar Index 0.42 per cent to 12,282.17 as trade volumes also shrank.

The bourse remained largely flat on May 10 despite selling pressure in the Islamic stocks. GCC retail investors turned marginally bullish and non-Qatari individual investors’ net buying strengthened as the index settled merely 0.03 per cent higher at 12,285.45 amid a decline in overall trade volumes.

The following day also QSE was flat amid selling pressure in the industrials, transport and telecom stocks. The index settled merely 0.05 per cent lower at 12,279.17.

Lower net buying interests from domestic and foreign institutions on May 12 led the Qatar Stock Exchange to decline after remaining flat since the beginning of that week. Industrials, telecom and real estate counters were under profit-booking pressure and the index settled 0.24 per cent lower at 12,250.21.

On May 13, the bourse gained a robust 117 points to inch near the 12,400 levels mainly on substantial buying interests from foreign and GCC institutions.

Stronger buying in real estate and insurance led to index surging 0.95 per cent to 12,366.92.

Powered by insurance and real estate stocks, the Qatar Stock Exchange on May 14 added another 149 points to surpass the 12,500 levels. Stronger buying interests in the mid and small-cap segments helped the Qatar Index surge 1.2 per cent to 12,515.86 despite losers outnumbering gainers.

Local retail and institutional investors’ net selling weakened and foreign institutions continued to be bullish but with lesser vigour in the bourse, which reported 1.87 per cent gains year-to-date

The telecom, transport and real estate equities witnessed higher than average profit-booking, dragging the index 0.59 per cent to 12,123.22 despite higher trade volumes.

Foreign institutions renewed net buying interests and the GCC retail investors’ lower selling pressure on May 5 lifted the Qatar Stock Exchange above the 12,200 level. Telecom and banking counters witnessed higher demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.7 per cent to 12,207.64 as trade volumes also rose.

reported wiping off the inherited losses by gaining 0.39 per cent year-to-date. However, net selling pressure from local, GCC and non-Qatari retail investors was visible in the market, where trading was skewed towards real estate, banking, consumer goods and industrials stocks, which together accounted for about 84 per cent of the overall volume.

Two days of substantial gains on May 7, gave way to profit-booking on the Qatar Stock Exchange, which fell 52 points to settle below the 12,300 mark, mainly due to industrials,

51MAY

TECHNOLOGY

AGILE INFRASTRUCTURE RECOMMENDEDA high-performance infrastructure can address many of the challenges of a multi-entity, digital media production and distribution system to deliver competitive advantage, says industry expert

Increasingly, consumers in Qatar are accessing entertainment and news ‘on-demand’ via mobile devices. Less complex, and with lower cost entry points, this growing demand has put mobility at the heart of Internet subscription service expansion. Consequently, mobile data consumption is growing rapidly.

‘Content’ becomes a valuable resource to leverage, not just for advertising, but also to underpin e-commerce. Connecting content with synergistic products or services, and capturing data, enables behavioural intelligence and more precise targeting.

Trends Patterns or trends from mining and analysing ‘Big Data’ are critical for operators, agencies, broadcasters and content producers in the country. Inevitably, the insight extraction must be generated at high speed. This is particularly true during campaign pilots or short-term window transactional activity.

However the growing volume of production and ‘Big Data’ content runs counter to the need for shorter ‘time-to broadcast’, and the desire for higher financial returns on digital assets in an aggressively competitive market.

For some, there is the need to radically reform production and distribution processes, using a different combination of in-house and contracted resources. This transformation involves a new level of ‘Big Data’ collaboration – particularly for video – across the entire value chain. This chain may be spread over several continents as the pace accelerates from digital asset production to distribution, broadcast, archive and playback.

This step-change poses a significant challenge at all stages in terms of video data management, storage

and availability. It requires a move towards much more integrated, secure, multi-entry collaboration.

Traditional on-site IT systems tend to be silo-oriented towards one company or a few suppliers. They are unable to meet the capacity, resiliency, flexibility and speed necessary to support multi-entry collaboration, or a fast- growing mobile consumer base. Yarob Sakhnini, Regional Director, MEMA at Brocade says that a high performance infrastructure is critical to support and deliver content, development and delivery on-demand, that can reliably scale to meet the ‘Big Data’ production and distribution demands.

To ensure the data is successfully captured, the infrastructure distributing mobile video and entertainment or news must be sufficiently agile, and scalable, in response to a widely-variable workload. The capacity of the network to automatically reconfigure according to demand adds substantial value and reduces operating cost

Yarob SakhniniRegional Director, MEMA at Brocade

52 MAY

AUTO REVIEW

A more powerful, lighter and third-generation, all-new Audi TT 2016 rolled out in Qatar recently. This new vehicle combines the original design of the iconic car with a stunning facelift.

The engine stays at 2.0 litres and it is tuned to produce 227bhp and 370Nm of torque, with All Wheel Drive and lesser weight. It accelerates 0.6 seconds faster than the previous model, reaching from 0-100 in 5.3 seconds.

The Quattro models are available in the country and Audi dealer Q-Auto expects the convertible version to arrive in July this year. An even powerful TTS version will be arriving by the end of this year.

The LED matrix lights and the rear dynamic lights are new for the 2016 Audi TT, which has got a new Audi virtual cockpit, designed from ground up. The traditional dash has been replaced with a customisable 12.3” TFT. Highly intuitive and visually appealing, the interior is innovative.

The vehicle has many safety features besides the usual front and side air-bags. There are front and rear sensors, automatic parking assistance and reinforced doors as well.

2016 MODELS AND POPULAR MARQUES

2016 Honda City: Doha Marketing Services Company (Domasco) recently announced availability of the 2016 Honda City at its Qatar showroom. The 2016 City has been termed as practical, economical and trendy. It comprises the best of Honda’s technologies to deliver an advanced sporty design, best-in-class comfort and safety, plus excellent fuel efficiency in the category.

“The Honda City is one of our best-selling Honda models in Qatar. Last year, it won the best Small Sized Sedan Award at the Middle East Car of the Year Awards. We are very excited about the arrival of the 2016 City model well before anybody else,” said Greig Roffey, Head of Sales and Marketing at Domasco.

Honda is the first to announce a 2016 model in the market among its competitors, the statement added.

The latest Honda City offers a host of advanced interior features. While cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free phone controls are standard features across all grades, advanced display audio in LX and EX grades, with a 7-in TFT touchscreen, integrates smartphone features. The model also comes with an auto air-conditioning system with a touchscreen control panel and rear AC vents that enhance

53MAY

cooling throughout the car. Besides, the car features Smart Entry with a one-push engine start/stop button.

The car is available in a range of colours, such as White Orchid Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Golden Brown Metallic and Carnelian Red Pearl.

Event for Ferrari owners: Alfardan Sports Motors, the official Ferrari importer in Qatar, recently organised the “6th Emozioni in Pista” for Ferrari owners and enthusiasts at the Losail International Circuit.

Omar Alfardan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alfardan Group, welcomed VIP guests and executive managers of Alfardan Group before leading a parade of some 39 cars to Losail International Circuit.

During the event, Italian training experts from Pilota Ferrai demonstrated sport driving techniques and helped Ferrari owners and prospective clients unlock the full potential of the cars.

For the first time in Qatar, the 6th Emozioni in Pista witnessed the world’s fastest hybrid car, LaFerrari, on the

racing track. The LaFerrari is Ferrari’s first ever production car to be equipped with the F1-derived hybrid solution.

Guests also enjoyed test driving the latest addition to Alfardan Sports Motors family, the elegant, sporty, exclusive, and versatile Ferrari California T. The California T model is a true representation of the history and excellence of the Prancing Horse, enhanced for superiority yet reflective of Ferrari’s tradition.

Ferrari enthusiasts also had the chance to admire the classic cars display, the Formula 1 mock-ups and to explore

The all-new Audi TT 2016 and 2016 Honda City in addition to Rolls-Royce and MINI vehicles’ sales growth made news

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

54 MAY

Ferrari’s lifestyle boutique, featuring elegant and unique Ferrari accessories, car accessory displays, and the chance for clients to personalise their cars with additional parts designed by Ferrari.

Rolls-Royce sales up 14%: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha recently announced that it achieved a 14 per cent sales increase in the first quarter of 2015 for the ultra-luxury marque compared to the same period in 2014.

The Ghost Series II experienced strong growth during the first three months of this year following its introduction to the market in October last year, according to a statement.

Considered an “oasis of calm in a busy connected world”, the latest addition to the Ghost collection of vehicles experienced a 40 per cent sales increase, affirming its popularity among discerning Qatari clientele, the statement adds.

Wraith, the most powerful and dynamic Rolls-Royce in history, also continued to experience strong sales throughout the first quarter in 2015, which is expected to continue with the announcement of the new limited-edition Rolls-Royce Wraith “Inspired by Film”, which will be available in Qatar this month.

Featuring a unique two-tone Silver and Jubilee silver exterior, and intricate Maccassar Ebony open pore panelling interior, the model is expected to contribute towards building on the success of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha throughout the second quarter.

MINI sells 6% more in Q1: Alfardan Automobiles, the official MINI importer in Qatar, has achieved a 6 per cent sales increase for the brand during the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2014, it announced.

Both the MINI 3-door Hatch and MINI 5-door Hatch claim the top spots for MINI sales in the country, according to a statement. MINI started a new chapter in its long history with the launch of the MINI 5-door Hatch late last year, which is an additional model to the MINI 3-door Hatch.

Setting new standards within its competitive segment in terms of legroom, headroom and boot space, it boasts of two engine variants of BMW Group’s latest generation three- and four-cylinder engines with TwinPower Turbo Technology. The four-cylinder petrol engine in the MINI Cooper S 5-door is 192hp and the three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 136hp.

The 3-door hatch also comes with three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines, using a six-speed automatic gearbox and MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. The Cooper is powered by a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder engine, with outputs of 136hp, while the Cooper S 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit outputs 192hp with maximum torque of 280Nm, reaching 0-100 in 6.7 seconds.

Weekend extravaganza: Alfardan Automobiles recently held a “weekend extravaganza” at the BMW and MINI used cars showroom in Al Sadd. Visitors could choose from a huge selection of BMW Premium Selection Certified pre-owned vehicles and MINI pre-owned vehicles.

The event was held for the second year running. There were “exceptional financing offers” from Alfardan Automobiles’ partner, Commercial Bank.

All BMW and MINI premium pre-owned vehicles come with a host of benefits for buyers, including certified vehicle history, 12-month warranty and service inclusive, complete technical and optical check and roadside assistance. Alfardan Automobiles also guaranteed a competitive trade-in offer as well as individual financing offers from Commercial Bank.

The long list of cars available from both BMW and MINI, including the BMW 7 Series, 6 Series, 5 Series, 3 Series and the X6, were joined by other members of the X family, including the X5.

MINI also made its presence felt over the weekend. The British brand has grown considerably in the Qatari market and had its sales increase recognised with a standalone showroom in Doha last year. Models that were available over the weekend included the popular MINI Paceman, MINI 3-Door Hatch and MINI Countryman.

NBK’s show on simulation track: Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the exclusive dealer of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, recently organised a “unique show” for Mercedes-Benz SUVs to demonstrate their performance capabilities and agility.

The event was organised at a custom-built simulation track in front of the NBK Automobiles exclusive showroom on Salwa Road. Professional Mercedes-Benz drivers entertained the audience on one of the hardest off-road simulation tracks to ever come to Qatar, the company said in a statement.

The experts helped guests to understand the specialised world of Mercedes-Benz SUVs and provided an experience that highlighted the range’s capabilities, design innovation and advanced technology, the statement added.

In celebration of the event and to offer more value to its patrons, NBK Automobiles offered special deals for a limited period on select SUV models

55MAY

EXPERT OPINION — TECHNOLOGY

GOING TO THE OFFICE? BYO APPLE WATCHThe launch of the Apple Watch heralds the transformation of BYOD into BYOX. Chris Kozup, Senior Director, Aruba Networks discusses how businesses can accommodate #GenMobile’s adoption of wearables and still stay in control

“Gorgeous”. “Beautiful”. “Actually useful”. “Epic”. The accolades from the reviewers of the Apple Watch keep pouring in, and the new device – though not the first of its kind in the market – holds the potential of becoming as ubiquitous as the iPhone or the iPod.

However, the expected popularity of the Apple Watch raises interesting challenges for CIOs and IT managers. The Apple Watch is merely a herald of an expected tsunami of BYOD smart devices and Internet-of-Things wearables into the workplace, potentially opening up new risks to corporate data privacy and security.

It’s highly likely that the first Apple Watches in the workplace will be personally owned. Yet, these devices will be able to interact with corporate networks; and access, download and store company data. Other wearables (not the current version of the Apple Watch) come with built-in cameras. In fact, one of the more interesting features of the Apple Watch is the ability to tether to, and control, iPhones over a remote connection. IT departments will be understandably worried about the impact of the Apple Watch on the workplace. Even though many organisations have already adopted BYOD policies, several new conundrums will pop up.

At the very top of the list: is it appropriate to allow wearable devices to connect to enterprise networks? What if the device is already tethered to a smartphone that has already been given access?

Bear in mind that, according to a study by Aruba Networks, the new generation of employees – dubbed #GenMobile – expect mobility at the workplace to be a given, so any blanket decision to ban such devices from the workplace will be highly unpopular. In fact, almost two-thirds of study respondents say they use mobile devices to help them manage their work and personal lives better. If the decision is made to accept Apple Watches and other wearables into the organisation, will existing BYOD policies that govern the use of corporate data be enough – will new policies be required?

When tinkering with these policies, CIOs have to keep in mind the fact that there

will be other IoT-based devices coming along that could be embedded into an employee’s clothing or even office pantry appliances. In fact, the acronym “BYOD” will soon have to be replaced with “BYOX”, with the “X” symbolising “practically anything”.

Once policies have been amended appropriately, then – and only then – can CIOs turn their attention to the underlying communications network. Many IT organisations have already put in place solutions that can secure any mobile device that connects to corporate Wi-Fi; giving them complete visibility of the number, type and frequency of mobile devices accessing their network.

What’s more, these platforms are also capable of enforcing flexible security policies that are capable of analysing – and acting on – the context of how an employee uses the mobile device. For instance, an employee using an Apple Watch at a coffee shop to access corporate data may not be granted the same level of access as one who uses a PC during office hours. Depending on the context, different policies can be applied to make sure that the right balance between flexibility and security is met.

Given these considerations, CIOs will need to skilfully juggle the competing requirements to arrive at an enlightened BYOX policy that is most appropriate to company’s needs. The Apple Watch certainly won’t make that juggling act any easier. But it will certainly make it more beautiful

Chris Kozup Senior Director, Aruba Networks

56 MAY

LAUNCHES

NEW PRODUCTS & SERVICES

I AM, the fascinating costume jewellery brand, dazzles women with the launch of its Spring/Summer 2015 collection. It boasts everything it takes for a stylish and feminine look. The collection features bracelets, ear clips, earrings, necklaces, rings, hairbands as well as sunglasses to suit all fashion tastes.

Citizen L Sunrise is an iconic timepiece created for women who chart their own path. With soft gradient dials draped with seven diamonds and three additional diamonds floating along the bezel, the Sunrise series sets the standard for timeless women’s fashion. It is water-resistant up to 50 metres.

The award-winning Asian bistro P.F. Chang’s has come to Doha, bringing a fresh new twist. It’s been described as a fusion of Asian cuisine and American-style service. The new P.F. Chang’s is trendy and upscale, with eye-catching décor, lively ambience and warm hospitality. The food too is outstanding.

FDR-X1000VR Action Cam and Full HD Action Cam HDR-AS200VR from Sony allows users to capture first person point-of-view in 4K footage. The FDR-X1000VR enables users to record Full HD video at 120p and HD video at 240p, offering features like cinematic slow-motion through the free ActionCam Movie Creator software.

57MAY

Bremont Watch Company launches Special Edition Kingsman watch range, developed for acclaimed director Matthew Vaughn’s new film Kingsman: The Secret Service. It comprises three new timepieces that British secret agents are shown wearing in the film. Nick English, co-founder of Bremont, has done a cameo.

Toshiba Gulf FZE introduced the CANVIO AeroMobile™, a solid state drive-based storage device that uses wireless connectivity for the fast and convenient transfer of files. It allows users to access their content even without an internet connection. The CANVIO AeroMobile™ is compatible with leading platforms.

Sony Launches α7 II, the world’s first full-frame camera with optical 5-axis image stabilisation. The feature allows greater creativity, mobility and easy use of the camera without tripod. The 24.3 effective megapixel 35 mm Full-Frame Exmor CMOS Sensor detects, corrects camera shake along five axes for still images and video.

W Doha Hotel & Residences has revolutionised guest experience with the Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG) App for the Apple Watch, enabling check in and room entry with a flick of the wrist. To do this, the watch must be connected to the iPhone and have the SPG app and be registered for SPG Keyless.

58 MAY

DESTINATION

WHERE WHITE IS THE NEW BLACK

Travel writer Anne Z. Cooke took a cruise in a ship to Svalbard Archipelago where she saw the ice pack and a land of polar bears

If it weren’t for the red flags marking the tundra trail to the glacier, some of us — passengers on the Hurtigruten cruise ship MS Fram, sailing out of Spitsbergen — might have been tempted to leave the slowpokes behind and bushwhack across country.

But as newcomers are relentlessly reminded here in Svalbard Archipelago, where white is the new black, that polar bears are the Big Dogs. More numerous than humans (3,500 to 2,750) and a protected species, the bears have the run of the islands, 24,209 square miles of wilderness, just 800 miles from the North Pole. Curious, stealthy and fast on their feet, they’re not fussy about their food.

“You may think polar bears are cute,” warned the Fram’s expedition leader Corinna Skrindo before our first shore excursion, fixing a stern eye on a couple

It’s a long, long way to everywhere from Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town. Summertime in Svalbard, and coats for MS Fram passengers.

59MAY

wearing cuddly-bear shirts. “But they are lethal,” she said, slinging her rifle over her shoulder. “We’re all trained in the use of firearms, but killing a bear is the very last option. If we spot a bear sitting on the beach or even on the next ridge, we go to Plan B.”

Plan A, our first shore excursion, began when the 318-passenger Fram sailed into the Hornsund Inlet and the crew landed in Burgerbukta Bay to reconnoiter. Scanning the slopes with binoculars, they flagged the safest trails, chose a landing site on the beach and radioed the “all clear” to the bridge. Then with rifles slung on their backs, they stood guard while the ship’s PolarCirkels (six-passenger inflatable landing craft) ferried everyone to shore.

As for bushwhacking, who would want to rush surrounded by such scenery? Climbing uphill we stopped, started, looked and stopped again, taking in the enormous glacier flows, the raw, ice-capped peaks at the head of the valley and the Arctic’s famously luminescent skies. Tiny pink, yellow and white flowers underfoot, the tundra’s cleverest adaptation, testified to the north-flowing Gulf Stream, its temperate waters moderating Spitsbergen’s west coast climate.

A set of bear tracks pressed into the mud, shoe size 20, quickly attracted a coterie of admirers, raising everyone’s hopes that the owner was in the vicinity. But polar bears weren’t the only reason many of us had chosen this

“circumnavigation” cruise around Spitsbergen. Themed “In the Realm of the Polar Bear,” it would take us north to the 80th parallel and the polar ice pack in person.

Melting ice is an abstraction, something you can’t wrap your head around. But a sea of broken chunks viewed at eye level is real. With the planet at risk — global warming, species extinctions, extreme weather and rising sea levels — climate change was the subtext of the voyage. Struggling into our orange survival suits for a tour among the bergs, we were elated but a trifle sombre. When you’re wearing a survival suit you’d rather not imagine why you’d need it.

“Orange is the new black,” quipped my husband, Steve, as we zipped up, tightened buckles, snapped snaps and shoved our feet into waterproof boots. “And to complete the outfit,” he added, “your orange life vest.”

As the MS Fram passed the 79th latitude, the edge of the ice appeared, 26 shades of silver under the midnight sun. A shifting soup of floating bergs and icy slush, it froze, cracked and refroze as the crew brought the PolarCirkels around to the gangway to pick up the afternoon’s first passengers.

In a remote location such as Svalbard, where miles of tundra are uninhabited, it’s easy to think you’re on virgin territory. But people have anchored offshore since the late 16th century, explorers, whalers, miners and more recently,

60 MAY

research vessels. But with interest in the polar regions currently at historic highs, cruise companies poring over maps have discovered Spitsbergen, adding it to their itineraries.

The MS Fram, built in 2007, is Hurtigruten’s newest ship, with eight decks, small but efficient cabins, an inviting restaurant, a snack bar, two lecture rooms, and adjacent lounges with big windows. When the outside decks are too cold, passengers retreat to the Qilak Observation Lounge on Deck 7, where upholstered chairs and panoramic windows bring outside in. Also on this deck are the bar, fitness centre, hot tubs and the outdoor sun deck.

Since the Spitsbergen cruise’s port stops are limited, each day’s activities depend more on chance than on the clock. Prowling the sea for sights might yield a bird rookery, a reindeer herd, arctic foxes, whales, scenic glaciers or unusual geologic formations. Meals are regular, but shore excursions are always flexible.

Our first bear sightings were nothing more than white specks in the distance. But the trip’s last two bears were on the ice pack, close to the ship. Still, as exciting as it was to watch them nap in the snow, stand up

and stretch, lie down again and finally walk away, it took a long lens to take a good photo. In fact, the only passengers disappointed with the cruise were a half-dozen semi-professional photographers who’d expected to book a special photographers-only excursion.

“It’s my fault for not checking more carefully,” said Keith Pointon, from England, an award-winning photographer. “I’m having a good time and it’s a pleasant vacation. But it’s billed as an expedition cruise when it’s really a small-ship cruise. With 300 passengers onboard, seven PolarCirkels aren’t half enough to take us on and off or to make one available to guests willing to pay.”

Since the cruise begins and ends in Longyearbyen, population 2,100, the capital of Svalbard, the town deserves a second look. A postcard might say: One mighty mountain, two streets, red and green pre-fab buildings, countless new cars, 10 bars, eight restaurants, a bank, grocery store, lots of bikes, kids’ toys, dead grass and the world’s best Arctic museum.

But we arrived a day early and discovered that as bare though it looks, Longyearbyen — and Svalbard — are more utopia than outlier. Administered by Norway, Svalbard is an international territory where citizens whose

BOOKING ITHurtigruten’s MS Fram sails the nine-day (seven-night) cruise, “In the Realm of the Polar Bear,” on five dates in July and August, 2015: July 22 and 29 and August 5, 12 and 19. Cabin prices start at $5,365 per person and include all meals, snacks, coffee bar, guided hikes, kayaking, glacier walks, onboard entertainment and airport transports. None of the bar drinks are included. The polar bear’s feet, a shoe size 20, are a clue to his size.

“Sailing on the MS Fram? Come with me,” says the Hurtigruten greeter at the Longyearbyen airport.

Open water in the ice makes seal hunting much harder.

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countries signed the 1920 Treaty of Versailles can live and work. Thus there is a global seed bank, numerous research stations, a concentration on the Arctic and related sciences — climate change, geology, astrophysics and biology.

“This is a fantastic place to live,” said Anika Paust, with Hurtigruten International Sales, who sat down with us for a cup of coffee. “We’ve got 42 nationalities represented, and people are interesting because they’re doing science. Everyone’s between 25 and 40 so businesses cater to a younger crowd. There are lots of great bars and restaurants and no retirees because there’s no senior housing or low-cost services for the elderly. You can be out playing in nature all day, hiking or snowmobiling, and come back for a party night out with your friends.”

But there are rules, she explained. To stay here you have to be self-supporting. There’s no welfare and no jail, so undesirables are simply deported. Since bears roam everywhere, you have to own a rifle and learn to use it. And if you’re not an environmentalist at heart you won’t fit in.

Saying goodbye to Paust, we spent the rest of the day sampling the Spitsbergian dream. We hiked along the beach, walked to the museum and the cemetery, checked out the bars in town, changed money at the bank and had dinner at a restaurant. It was the perfect send-off for a trip to the ice.

PLANNING ITFor Europeans, who like snow sports, romance under the northern lights and lively pub crawls, Spitsbergen is close enough for a long winter weekend. For Americans and the rest of the world, a Spitsbergen cruise makes a perfect add-on to a weekend in Oslo, or to any other European vacation.

STAYING ITThe Radisson Blu Hotel, with small but comfortable guest rooms, a nice gift shop and a wonderful dining room, is where Hurtigruten’s buses pick up and deliver cruise passengers.

FLYING ITMost travellers fly to Oslo, Norway, or to Helsinki, Finland, and on to the Longyearbyen airport

It’s a long, rocky trail that ascends the ridge on Nordaustlandet Island.

Reserve a kayak in advance to make sure you get one.

A unique Svalbard souvenir: Postcards bought, franked and mailed from the world’s northernmost post office.

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