We welcome you to Bahrain's new majlis. :)

We have brand new red carpets, very comfortable seats, and a plasma TV.

Thanx for the welcome and congrats to the subforums. :cheers:

grats guys for the new gahwa :banana:

wein el3asha?

Gahwa 3aad?

Welcome. Hehe, Bahrain, cafes everywhere, that's why sky gahwa :D.

No, i get it... :tongue2: Not bad...

Ibcham il sheesha? :)

congratulation :cheers:

Something great to start your day: hehehe


اكتشاف جثة خليجي متحللة في شقة بالحورة





وجد طاقم الدفاع المدني والإسعاف صعوبة في انتشال جثة خليجي وجدت متحللة بشكل كلي في إحدى الشقق بمبنى في منطقة الحورة مساء أمس. وتشير التفاصيل الأولية إلى أن عمال النظافة الذين يشرفون على مبنى «قصر العائلات« اكتشفوا جثة خليجي يبلغ من العمر 79 عاما ويدعى «ربيعة صالح غانم« متحللة بعد أن أخذتهم الريبة جراء انبعاث روائح كريهة من الشقة.

وأشارت بعض المصادر الطبية إلى أنه وبحسب التقديرات الأولية فان الجثة بقيت قرابة أربعة أيام بعد الوفاة حيث بدت الجثة متحللة تماما كما بدأت السوائل تسيل منها نتيجة تعفنها الأمر الذي أدى إلى انتشار رائحة كريهة في أجواء الشقة ووجود صعوبة في تحريكها. وبعد جهود مضنية تمكن رجال الدفاع المدني من أخذ الجثة و نقلها إلى مشرحة السلمانية في الوقت الذي باشرت فيه المباحث الجنائية التحقيق في الحادث ورفع البصمات للتأكد من مدى وجود أي شبهة جنائية.
,,,,,,

So fcuking disgusting ...

Man why did you post that, I just woke up and I read this. Allah eyru7ma.

hehehe this is the point ! hehe

low sama7t mumkin wahed chai n3n3? :cheers:

5alkom an il sheesha wil chai 7ag degeega, get to work on this:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=293182

Very under-represented. Come on boys.

Manama, Dec.11 ( BNA ) In implementation of the Royal generous act and the directives of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Works and Housing has distributed 456 housing units worth of BD.11 mn, as part of the first stage of the Bussaiteen Housing Project Areef.
The units distribution has taken place at an official ceremony organized today by the Ministry in cooperation with the Muharaq Governorate. The Ministry of Works and Housing is currently working on carrying out large housing projects in Muharraq. The second stage of this project - which costs BD14.845 -will have 614 units built in the Bandar Seef area, east of Bussaiteen after filling up works have been finalized. The project is expected to be completed in a one -year time.

^^ I saw this on the 8 pm news on TV, Bussaiteen looks GREAT. A proper community and the house look pretty good. Hopefully the government in going in the right direction.

Sounds cool.

Guys, help me post pics in that thread I posted. I already did but I need more people to help me, bit busy at the mo.

^^ man i went to that thread, it became a photo gallery just too much. so much junk pics of fish and stones. people are just going to avoid it.

I noticed that lol. 3di forget it.

Huh, some news, good (Valid) for retired ppl only:-

حدد الخبير الاكتواري والمستشار زميل معهد الاكتواريين القانونيين ميشيل بيدار * الذي أوكلت له الحكومة إعداد الدراسة الاكتوارية لمشروع التأمين ضد التعطل أو الضمان الاجتماعي * المزايا التي سيقدمها المشروع للمستفيدين منه على أساس شهري، وذلك بمعدل 60 في المئة من الايرادات السابقة للفرد، ولكن بما لا يتعدى مبلغ 500 دينار في الشهر، وسيحصل الباحثون عن العمل لأول مرة على مبلغ ثابت قدره 150 ديناراً شهرياً إذا كانوا من خريجي الجامعات و 120 ديناراً شهرياً إذا كانوا غير ذلك، مشيراً إلى أن ذلك سيطبق أيضاً كحدود دنيا لأصحاب المطالبات المنتظمين بشرط لا تتجاوز المزايا الناتجة عن ذلك إيراداتهم السابقة.

^^ man i went to that thread, it became a photo gallery just too much. so much junk pics of fish and stones. people are just going to avoid it.


We thought the same thing, LMAO.

^^ P S.. i never meant the pics of Kish were junk, on the contrary there were a lot of amazing photos. It’s just they were killed with all the other garbage posted. Oh well Manama is still ahead last time i checked. :D

^^ yeah tooo many photos just put people off the thread cuz it takes ages to load .even with my fast connection!

and i dont think kish is a good comparison with manama. because one is a tourist town and the other a capital city...I really dont know what the basis for comparison was.

but i say manama beats kish regardless :)

This would be great if passed:

The personal finances of senior government officials, including ministers, could be investigated with the passing of a new law.

Under the proposed law, the income of their wives and children could also come under close scrutiny.

Ministers and those with equal rank would have to provide the government with statements detailing their sources of income.

Also affected are Under-Secretaries, Assistant Under-Secretaries, MPs, Shura Council members, municipal councillors, ministry directors and those in charge of government organisations or companies and societies in which the government has a share of 50pc or more.

The legislation was due to be discussed by MPs yesterday (dec 13), but talks were postponed until next week's parliamentary session based on a request from Minister of State for Shura Council and Chamber of Deputies Affairs Abdulaziz Al Fadhel so that those concerned can attend.

If the legislation is passed, a commission chaired by His Majesty King Hamad and including cassation judges would look into their accounts and grievances against them.

The Minister of Information, Mohammed Abdulghaffar, has announced a decision to permanently ban the “Teatro” restaurant in Dana Mall from holding live concerts.
The Egyptian singer Hakim was scheduled to be performing tonight at the Teatro as part of the weekly Thursday concerts of Arab bands. Sources told Bahrain Tribune that the decision came as a response to pressure from some radicals, who claimed that the mall was a shopping facility and was not meant for live concerts.
The Teatro restaurant had opened its doors last month at a cost of over BD400, 000.

i really feel sorry for the owner, and the people who enjoyed watching a live show :no:

WTF, not again. I'm fed up with this bs that we get and this minister sux, can't he have his own word, everytime he breaks down under their pressure. Just when we thought things might change again, this happens. Malat 3la il bambar agool.

live concerts is what made that restaurant different.. BD400, 000 down the drain

So this bs announcement is official now. Did anyone tell this minister he's an idiot, instead of supportin the country's cause, he follows those morons who don't give a damn about bahrain.

If I was the owner, I'll sue the ministry of information or let me say, ministry of disinformation. They better dissolve it, what a waste of resources.

Check this out:

Mini tornado causes a stir

http://gulf-daily-news.com/source/xxviii/270/images/bnew2.jpg

A MINI tornado brought traffic to a standstill yesterday as it crossed a Bahrain highway throwing up dust and other objects in its path. But instead of running, people got out of their cars, stood on car roofs and began taking pictures with their mobile phones.

The mini tornado appeared on the Shaikh Zayed Highway between A'ali and Zayed Town in the early afternoon.

Some daredevil drivers followed it in their cars as it took a U-shaped path across the road and into a group of buildings before dissipating.

It was immediately followed by heavy rainfall.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company finance manager Manoj Nair managed to take pictures of the mini tornado when he was on his way back to work from lunch.

At first he thought it was just a dust storm, but realised it was more when he got closer.

"At first I thought it was just a normal storm, but then I noticed it was more than just dust particles - it was more like an inverted cone shaped storm," he told the GDN.

"It was exciting when I stopped my car to take a closer look and realised it was a tornado.

"A lot of people also stopped to take pictures with their mobile phones, which is what I did too."

One eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, said he was on his way back from Saudi Arabia when he saw a large, smoke-like cloud.

"At first we thought it was a large fire, but when we approached it we realised it was a mini tornado," he said.

"This is the first time I have witnessed a tornado and seen one live, which is shocking to find in Bahrain."

The Bahraini said the force of the tornado wasn't very strong and it was much less violent than those seen in the US and other countries.

"There was a cloud of dust swirling at the bottom and a lot of people were standing around taking pictures with their mobile phones," he said.

"It could be seen reaching all the way up into the clouds."

A statement from the Civil Aviation Affairs meteorological directorate said the mini tornado, also known as a mesoscale feature, is a rare phenomenon in Bahrain.

It added that it could be a long time before one is seen here again.

"Heavy showers caused by super cell convective clouds affected some parts of the kingdom in the morning and early afternoon yesterday," it said.

"The heavy showers were concentrated over Zayed Town, Isa Town, A'Ali and some parts of Riffa.

"The mesoscale was caused by the long spell of humid weather and higher-than-normal temperatures (at this time of the year)."

On November 19, 2000 Bahrain witnessed its strongest recorded winds near a severe thunderstorm.

However, experts said the winds yesterday remained light and variable near the super cell.

"On November 19, 2000 the winds gusted to 62 knots at the Bahrain International Airport," it said.

earthquake in Dubai tornado in Bahrain what’s next??

Check this out:

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/1173/twister9xz.jpg

I hope the minister, and those 'radicals' die a horrible painful slow death...

earthquake in Dubai tornado in Bahrain what’s next??
volcano in kuwait :runaway:

Actually it was BD 1.5 million not 400,000 to make things worse. Again, I can't believe this, thank god am not in bahrain cause I'll go and choke this guy. What an idiot and he said this at the same time:

BAHRAIN is pushing to turn health tourism into a major industry, Information Minister and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Mohammed Abdul Ghaffar said yesterday.

The newly-proposed independent body for tourism will also give special attention to health tourism activities in the Kingdom, he told the GDN.


This guy certainly has no idea how to do things, either right or left. Wake up, we're in the 21st century. And if we keep continuin like this, we might as well call it "The kingdom of bu le7ya dictatorship".

The kingdom of bu le7ya dictatorship
:lol::lol:
the same thing apply to kuwait ,which is very disturbing

Actually it was BD 1.5 million not 400,000 to make things worse. Again, I can't believe this, thank god am not in bahrain cause I'll go and choke this guy. What an idiot and he said this at the same time:

BAHRAIN is pushing to turn health tourism into a major industry, Information Minister and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Mohammed Abdul Ghaffar said yesterday.

The newly-proposed independent body for tourism will also give special attention to health tourism activities in the Kingdom, he told the GDN.


This guy certainly has no idea how to do things, either right or left. Wake up, we're in the 21st century. And if we keep continuin like this, we might as well call it "The kingdom of bu le7ya dictatorship".

I hate them

Check this out:

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/1173/twister9xz.jpg


Cute! :)

well thats the first time ive seen anything of that sort in Bahrain! hmmm i wonder if that could have lifted me off the ground? would have been fun :)

Well let's forget this tourism nonesense about bahrain cause there isn't any of it, so it doesn't matter anymore.

Our banner is goin up in a few hours, so look out for that :).

^^ yes...bye bye sao paulo...hello bahrain :)

Shit, they put it on the wrong date, afaaa :(.

Anyways, happy national day and whenever it's up it's up :).

^^i see an australian banner :bash:

You mean a Serbian one.

So when will they put it then, lol?

No clue, I know it's in a queue but I thought it was in there for today. Yalla whenever it shows up it shows up :D.

:lol:

ya garcon... sawilii wahed shawarma diyay wiya batata bus bidoon khudra... zayn? bidoon khudra! wa wahed bebsi-cola.

10 mins later

ya garcon!!!! yakhi...hada khudra fee alshawarma!!!

im sure the bahraini gahwa will be better than the other cafe's ive tried ^

Definately better hehe. I'd recommend Malqoom (the bahrainis know what am talkin about) lol.

Am full now, I'll order some later :D.

I never really liked malgoom... ^^ But i know a lot of ppl doo...

I never really like malgoom... ^^ But i know a lot of ppl doo...
Ya me neither

Well it's ok, depends really on your mood. I eat it like twice a year sometimes once, hopefully this gives you the impression hehe.

Definately, shawarma is king :D.

Guys, its official, we're turning into another Saudi...I'll comit suicide if this happens...

MP's are adamantly pushing for closing places and shops around the country for 2 whole hours every friday, for the friday prayers...It'll encourage ppl to pray...!

I know to some this isn't really terrible, but to me it is, especially when u factor it in and think of the bigger picture...I mean whats next...!! We're heading in the wrong direction thanks to these F'ing backward, religious, intolerant, biggoted MP's...

^^ it will never happen and the MPs know it; its just that the elections are coming up and they think this sort of talk will get them re-elected.

I really hope your right... :ohno:

^^ it will never happen and the MPs know it; its just that the elections are coming up and they think this sort of talk will get them re-elected.

Spot-on, this whole act as you said it is just to get elected again. They're actin like heroes now after 3 years especially those extremists, the fools they are.

This shouldn't be passed. Whenever they talk about their needs, they always say the whole country wants this.

Bahrainis will be stupid to vote for them again, although I think that the islamist lobby will remain, if not increase. I hope am totally wrong.

Well my school's tradition of accident-related deaths continues, very sad. This guy was just about to leave for uni. 4 other ppl died because of car accidents which I know off and another one died in her room in montreal. Allah yer7amhom :(.

Watch out guys on the road, they're gettin real nasty. There has been an increase in deaths in the last week.


http://gulf-daily-news.com/source/xxviii/277/images/03%20Yousif.jpg

DOZENS of grieving friends will travel to Saudi Arabia today for the funeral of a teenager killed in an horrific car crash in Bahrain yesterday.

Ibn Khuldoon National School (IKNS) graduate Yousif Abdulrahman Al Shohail, 18, died in the mangled wreck of a friend's car on the Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway.

He was a passenger in a BMW driven by Bahrain School graduate Abdulatif bin Khaled Al Mulhem.

Abdulatif escaped with relatively minor injuries and was yesterday still being treated at the Salmaniya Medical Complex.

Classmates revealed yesterday how they will miss the Saudi friend they described as the 'class entertainer' who was loved by everyone.

Fellow IKNS graduate Abdulla Sami Amin was driving behind them when the accident happened, on the Budaiya Road flyover, at around 1.30am.

Another group of friends in a Toyota Lexus were driving alongside the BMW.

"My friends were in their cars in front of me and I saw a Range Rover cut in on the Lexus," Abdulla told the GDN.

"My friend in the Lexus hit the brakes but his car skidded, hit the BMW from behind, started spinning and then hit the road barrier.

"The BMW also hit the road barrier but somersaulted and flipped over the Lexus."

Abdulla said they could not get their friends out of the car and by the time firemen cut it open, Yousif was dead.

"Yousif was the class entertainer and had a lot of friends," he said.

"He just finished his correspondence course needed to graduate and was going to leave for California tomorrow to study.

"He loved football and body building."

IKNS graduate Ali Sayyar said he was shocked and upset when he found out about his friend's death.

"I can't find words to express how I felt when I heard the news," he said.

Ali said Yousif was a nice and loving person and everyone in their class was his friend.

More than 30 friends are travelling to Saudi Arabia for the funeral "to pay our respects and say goodbye", he said.

"Yousif was planning on going to university in San Francisco, it's very sad that he died at such a young age."

Fellow graduate Shaikha Fakhro said Yousif, who had three older brothers, would be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

"Yousif was a laid-back person who respected everyone," she said. "He was very smart, had a lot of friends and everyone loved him.

"I was very upset when I heard about what happened and still can't believe he's dead."

IKNS graduate Latifa Al Shakar said Yousif was the type of person who always made people smile.

"My cousin was driving the Lexus and told me what happened and I still can't believe it.

"I just got back from London and was planning on seeing Yousif before he left for California."

Here we go again:

Tourist held in hotel bill row

A SAUDI tourist was arrested by police after he tried to flee a Hoora hotel without paying his bill.

The drunken man had stumbled, fell and bled as he was pursued by the hotel's security personnel, sources told the GDN.

The tourist was later spotted by police patrolling the area at around 2am. Hotel security staff denied causing any injury to the man.

Back to the prayer thing:

BUSINESS leaders across Bahrain yesterday hit out at plans to close shops for Friday prayers, saying it would damage the country's image.

Shops, restaurants, coffee houses, petrol stations and workshops could be forced to close for two hours for Friday prayers, if MPs get their way.

Those caught opening from 11am to 1pm on Fridays would be fined or their establishments closed for a week, under proposals backed by parliament on Tuesday and which will now be submitted to the Cabinet.

But Bahraini businessman Ali Fakhro is against the law and believes it will reflect badly on the country.

"We have improved the economy and they want to introduce us to these rules," he said.

"If you want to pray you will go to the mosque, they should leave it up to the businessmen.

"It is not common sense, they should not force the people."

Mr Fakhro also believes it will drive foreign investment and tourism away from Bahrain, at a time when the country wants to increase its appeal as a holiday destination.

"What about the foreigners in the country if they want to go shopping during the Friday prayer and they are not Muslim?" he asked.

Al A'ali Shopping Comp-lex director Adel Al A'ali is also against the move.

"Religion is a personal belief and is better left to the person himself," he said.

"This initiative is unnecessary. Employees have the option not to work. When they first go into work they can say, 'I want to stop for Friday prayers'.

"I do not see the point of having it as a law.

"Some businesses like restaurants, hotels and petrol stations provide important services to the public and Friday is a full working day."

Adel Fakhro, of the Almuntada Society, which advocates freedom of thought and expression, is strongly opposed to the plan.

"We have not come up with an official view, but speaking as a businessman I am not in favour of this recommendation," he said.

"It will obstruct business and interfere with the freedom of customers being able to shop and eat at that time.

"I think it is an infringement of people's rights.

"There are people of other nationalities and religions in Bahrain who do not need to pray on Fridays and they have to be served as well.

"Businesses have to serve all the customers all the time.

"I find it very irresponsible of parliament to be coming up with this recommendation and not focusing on more important issues like the economy, unemployment, investments and transparency in the government.

"I hope the government will decide not to follow this suggestion because it does not serve the cause of our religion.

"People will still go on praying with or without their recommendation."

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce has yet to formulate an official response, but president Dr Essam Fakhro says the business community is against the move.

"In view of our liberal stance in Bahrain we would hope that such directives would not be implemented," he said.

"We are living in a tolerant society and there are other religions here too.

"Those who want to attend prayer can go - their prayer should not be controlled in this manner.

"I have my doubts whether it will be implemented.

"The view of the business community in Bahrain is that Friday prayers have been going on for a long time and people who want to go have gone.

"I see no reason why it should not continue in the future."

Bahrain Consumer Protection Society president Zainat Al Mansouri described the move as a breach of human rights, but stressed that she was speaking privately, not officially for the society.

"I feel this is against the human rights of the consumer and that it does not reflect consumer protection," she said.

"The owners of shops also feel that it is going to harm them more than consumers.

"Bahrain is an Islamic country and the people are Muslim and they want to have rules that reflect that, but this is an open country and many people who are working here are not Muslim.

"I do not think this would encourage people to pray.

"Prayer is your relationship between you and God and you cannot force that."

Parliament public utilities and environment affairs chairman Abdulaziz Al Moosa, foreign affairs, defence and national security committee vice-chairman Abdulla Al Dossari, Ahmed Haji, Hamad Al Mohannadi and Ahmed Hussain drew up the proposal.

They argue that it is in keeping with what is written in the Quran.

Mr Al Moosa said the aim was not be to force people to pray.

"It is not compulsory to go to pray but this gives people a chance to go to pray," he said. "I think there is no harm in closing for two hours. This is about respect.

"We are not forcing people to go to the mosque, there are no religious police.

"It will not affect the economy because it is booming. I do not think this will change.

"It has not affected Dubai, has it? Tourism is going on there."

Mr Haji denied that the change would be bad for Bahrain.

"The benefit for the people of Bahrain is that during the time of prayer more people will be able to go, because some of their employers tie them down at work and they do not have the chance to go,' he said.

"Respect should be given to the time of the prayer, especially on Fridays.

"It is not compulsory that people should pray.

"The policy does not include all the shops, we are not going to close the airport, only certain areas around mosques."

Mr Haji does not believe tourism would be affected. "When I go to Europe the shops close in the afternoon until 5pm. People get used to it," he said.

Are u sure he didn't leave for uni already?? I thought he was studying in the UK already...! Cuz i sorta know someone who was sorta invloved in, i think, this accident..!

Why hasn't Emaar invested in Bahrain...!? They've invested in most arab countries, and Bahrain is quite an interesting market and location...

I want to see one of they're mega projects in Bahrain...

Maybe they're saving the best for last :tongue2: I hopw, lol..

They said they will, published an article but that was it. Just wait and see.

And about that guy, I don't know anythin, just read the article.

Another guy crushed to death by a car, 6 lives in 5 days. This is not pleasant. You open the paper in the mornin and this is the first thing you see.

Back to the prayer thing:

BUSINESS leaders across Bahrain yesterday hit out at plans to close shops for Friday prayers, saying it would damage the country's image.

Shops, restaurants, coffee houses, petrol stations and workshops could be forced to close for two hours for Friday prayers, if MPs get their way.

Those caught opening from 11am to 1pm on Fridays would be fined or their establishments closed for a week, under proposals backed by parliament on Tuesday and which will now be submitted to the Cabinet.

But Bahraini businessman Ali Fakhro is against the law and believes it will reflect badly on the country.

"We have improved the economy and they want to introduce us to these rules," he said.

"If you want to pray you will go to the mosque, they should leave it up to the businessmen.

"It is not common sense, they should not force the people."

Mr Fakhro also believes it will drive foreign investment and tourism away from Bahrain, at a time when the country wants to increase its appeal as a holiday destination.

"What about the foreigners in the country if they want to go shopping during the Friday prayer and they are not Muslim?" he asked.

Al A'ali Shopping Comp-lex director Adel Al A'ali is also against the move.

"Religion is a personal belief and is better left to the person himself," he said.

"This initiative is unnecessary. Employees have the option not to work. When they first go into work they can say, 'I want to stop for Friday prayers'.

"I do not see the point of having it as a law.

"Some businesses like restaurants, hotels and petrol stations provide important services to the public and Friday is a full working day."

Adel Fakhro, of the Almuntada Society, which advocates freedom of thought and expression, is strongly opposed to the plan.

"We have not come up with an official view, but speaking as a businessman I am not in favour of this recommendation," he said.

"It will obstruct business and interfere with the freedom of customers being able to shop and eat at that time.

"I think it is an infringement of people's rights.

"There are people of other nationalities and religions in Bahrain who do not need to pray on Fridays and they have to be served as well.

"Businesses have to serve all the customers all the time.

"I find it very irresponsible of parliament to be coming up with this recommendation and not focusing on more important issues like the economy, unemployment, investments and transparency in the government.

"I hope the government will decide not to follow this suggestion because it does not serve the cause of our religion.

"People will still go on praying with or without their recommendation."

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce has yet to formulate an official response, but president Dr Essam Fakhro says the business community is against the move.

"In view of our liberal stance in Bahrain we would hope that such directives would not be implemented," he said.

"We are living in a tolerant society and there are other religions here too.

"Those who want to attend prayer can go - their prayer should not be controlled in this manner.

"I have my doubts whether it will be implemented.

"The view of the business community in Bahrain is that Friday prayers have been going on for a long time and people who want to go have gone.

"I see no reason why it should not continue in the future."

Bahrain Consumer Protection Society president Zainat Al Mansouri described the move as a breach of human rights, but stressed that she was speaking privately, not officially for the society.

"I feel this is against the human rights of the consumer and that it does not reflect consumer protection," she said.

"The owners of shops also feel that it is going to harm them more than consumers.

"Bahrain is an Islamic country and the people are Muslim and they want to have rules that reflect that, but this is an open country and many people who are working here are not Muslim.

"I do not think this would encourage people to pray.

"Prayer is your relationship between you and God and you cannot force that."

Parliament public utilities and environment affairs chairman Abdulaziz Al Moosa, foreign affairs, defence and national security committee vice-chairman Abdulla Al Dossari, Ahmed Haji, Hamad Al Mohannadi and Ahmed Hussain drew up the proposal.

They argue that it is in keeping with what is written in the Quran.

Mr Al Moosa said the aim was not be to force people to pray.

"It is not compulsory to go to pray but this gives people a chance to go to pray," he said. "I think there is no harm in closing for two hours. This is about respect.

"We are not forcing people to go to the mosque, there are no religious police.

"It will not affect the economy because it is booming. I do not think this will change.

"It has not affected Dubai, has it? Tourism is going on there."

Mr Haji denied that the change would be bad for Bahrain.

"The benefit for the people of Bahrain is that during the time of prayer more people will be able to go, because some of their employers tie them down at work and they do not have the chance to go,' he said.

"Respect should be given to the time of the prayer, especially on Fridays.

"It is not compulsory that people should pray.

"The policy does not include all the shops, we are not going to close the airport, only certain areas around mosques."

Mr Haji does not believe tourism would be affected. "When I go to Europe the shops close in the afternoon until 5pm. People get used to it," he said.


Hi everyone! First of all its very sad that many people are dying fron accidents. I wish you guys all the safest driving.

About the friday prayer thing, it is against Islam to open shops during Friday prayers. The Quran "haram" selling anything during the friday prayers. At least they should close it during the time of the prayers. I know its against the SSC to speak about relegion, but this part at least is the least bit people could do.

^^well i dont agree with this proposal because of the fact that not everyone is muslim...secondly i dont think religion should be forcecully imposed on people....because in most cases they actually turn away from it.

I mean alot of businesses in Bahrain actually employ non-muslims and further more alot of shoppers are also non-muslim...I mean what are they meant to do during the closures...its just uneccessary.....No one is stopping people from leaving work to pray, and infact i know alot of people do so freely in between work. So i think these laws are simply unecessary because they are not needed and will simply cause harm to the economy.

I agree with you skyline. The problem is that these ppl think only in one framework, they don't give a damn about other ppl. A well educated man would know this, but most of these guys don't see the light.

I mean ppl won't leave prayer to go to a shop, they're not that stupid or desperate. They only think in extreme views, like playing cards for example will stop you from praying at all.

Come on, gimme a break.

And its not about respect like the person who argues in favour says...

If its about respect, does he really believe that the way things are now is like disrespectful...Its not at all...Respect has nothing to do with it..!!

I passed today by the racing equestrian track in Sakheer...

They had an Al-Hawaj Cup race... :tongue2: The weather was lovely...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid198/p99370b0c504e1ee2e019c94d924309aa/f0f309c3.jpg http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid198/p79a5fab88ea920a401b84f5a3838d163/f0f3098e.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid198/p098fd2aee8a252512eadf62e2e160d2e/f0f30943.jpg http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid198/p28d5e762298cc9e57e8e3c60a5834f8f/f0f308eb.jpg

You can see in the last picture the Sakheer National Charter Monument/Museum...Where the crane is sticking out from....

Shay, Hawaj cup.

More on that friday prayer thing:

Bahrain's businessmen yesterday condemned a parliament proposal to force commercial establishments to close down for two hours for Friday prayers. Such moves were causing anxiety among investors, they added.

The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry also accused the MPs of selectively implementing Islamic rules and urged parliament to avoid making decisions which hurt businesses and scare away investors.

Islam does not dictate that its rules should be imposed by force on people, it said.

The proposal to force shops, restaurants, coffee houses, garages and other workshops to close for two hours on Friday was backed by parliament on Tuesday.

Those caught opening from 11am to 1pm on Fridays would be fined or their establishments closed for a week.

The proposal has not been sent to Shura Council for approval as yet.

The chamber criticised MPs who they said are trying to curb public freedoms and are taking the country in a direction which goes against international trends and developments.

"And this at a time when Bahrain is trying to overcome many economic challenges," they said.

"Other parliaments are laying down plans for sustainable development but some of our MPs are bringing up issues which harm economic growth and are not related to important national issues."

http://www.bahraintribune.com/Archive/December_2005/24_12_2005_p1-2.jpg

Singing star Michael Jackson took a 45-minute private shopping trip to Ashraf’s (Hoora) at 10.30pm on Thursday with security surrounding the shopping arcade. According to our count, Michael bought seven bags full of high-quality gifts and then graciously stood by his limo and shook hands with all the staff.

Teatro Restaurant has appealed to the Ministry of Information to reconsider its decision to ban live concerts at its Dana Mall outlet.

During a Press conference on Thursday at the Dana Mall outlet, Ahmed Al Aryan, owner of Teatro, expressed shock and disappointment at the decision which has left 100 people unemployed, including Bahrainis whose livelihood depended on it. Apart from the loss of hundreds of thousands of Dinars spent on the bands and advertising, customers who bought the tickets for the last concert that was cancelled one day before its date were also affected, he said.

Al Aryan, a major investor in Dana Mall and owner of 12 cinemas and other businesses in Bahrain totalling BD20 million, lashed at what he called a “third unknown party” that has influenced the Ministry’s decision on the ban by defaming the restaurant. He said although Teatro was fully authorised by the Ministry of Information and the Tourism Affairs and had held four successful concerts since November, only one day before Hakim’s concert he received a call from the Ministry of Information telling him to stop everything.
Al Aryan said: “There must be a mistake somewhere, we came to Bahrain for its good investment climate| and we offer clean family entertainment. I urge Bahrainis to judge by themselves and for themselves.”
He added, “Teatro serves no alcohol, no sheesha, and has no dance shows. We wanted a place that was in line with local traditions and values. Respecting the local culture was our main goal.

“We are against any activities that are against our religion and values. We have no dispute with the Ministry of Information. I believe the whole thing has been nothing but a huge misunderstanding by all parties.”

^ They better reverse their decision or that's really the beginning of the end for many investors.

lety me just post this here
i see there are not too many threads in the sky gawha yet

bahraini - please keep an eye on this and don't let it become too much

once it has started it's tough to keep an overview

i've done this mistake with the uae skybar, too much stuff in there!!

when there are completely irrelevant threads, "physically remove" them

So when am i going to see him? MJ i mean... I hope one day he'll pass by, 7aji Michael

lety me just post this here
i see there are not too many threads in the sky gawha yet

bahraini - please keep an eye on this and don't let it become too much

once it has started it's tough to keep an overview

i've done this mistake with the uae skybar, too much stuff in there!!

when there are completely irrelevant threads, "physically remove" them


Don't worry, our bahraini forumers like it nice, easy and simple, they're not goin to thrash this forum.

Don't worry about the overflooding if you wanna put it that way, it's under control :).

Man, this is a lot of movement for 1 month:

1.4m travellers!

THE number of travellers that visited and left Bahrain in November reached 1,401,211, revealed the Nationality, Passports and Residence Directorate yesterday. Statistics shows that of these travellers, 1,128,370 travelled through the King Fahad Causeway and 272,841 through the airport and seaports. The number of travellers entering the country in November was 706,475, while the number of those who left was 694,736. Visas issued for 72-hour and week-long stays were 12,753.

^^ OMG so in one month the equivalent to the entire population of Bahrain entered the country, that’s just crazy.

Yes very smart idea. Instead of combinig all the sky majles, general discussions, and other threads of this sort in the mid east sub forum you go and create a new one.

What we need is a one stop place were we go in each day, chat, and leave. What we dont need is to tour seven different places in the subforum to see whats up.

Well this is only related to bahrain, it's not really a chit chat sort of thing, just postin relevant things to the country and discussing them.

If we had one big chat thread, I'll post a topic, by the end of the day, given some of the pointless comments that'll pop up, my post will be 3 pages down or so and it'll be difficult to keep track and read everythin.

So when am i going to see him? MJ i mean... I hope one day he'll pass by, 7aji Michael

7aji Michael... :lol: i hope PMs dont read this they will ban the site

There is a pic, doesn't work at the moment:

MANAMA: Pop star Michael Jackson visited an amusement arcade at a mall in Bahrain with his children and friends yesterday.Foton World in Bahrain Mall was closed to public for an hour for Jackson and his 15-member group, sources told the GDN. It was closed from 4.30pm to 5.30pm to allow them some privacy as they celebrated Christmas, they said.

"He came in with his family and went on the roller-coaster and the maze," the sources added.

"They spent a short while here and then they left."

Bahrain is currently the pop star's legal home, which was revealed when he was summoned for jury duty in the US.

His lawyers told California court officials that he would not be able to serve because he was no longer living full time at his Neverland Valley Ranch and that Bahrain was his new home.

Breakthrough!

A BAHRAINI man with a rare bone disease will become the first patient in the world outside the US to receive a new form of drug to treat his condition, it was revealed yesterday.

Hassan Fadhul, 23, will undergo a 10-month course costing just more than BD6,500 at the Joslin Diabetes Centre, Salmaniya.

The expense of the course will be paid for by the Health Ministry, officials at the centre said.

Mr Fadhul was diagnosed at the age of five with idiopathic hypoparathyroidism, a condition caused by lack of the Parathyroid Hormone (PTH). It causes a decrease in blood calcium levels and an increase in blood phosphorus levels.

For the last five years, he has been going to the Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) from 11pm to 6am to receive intravenous calcium.

Symptoms of the disease include tingling in the lips, hands, fingers and toes, brittle nails, dry hair, severe muscle cramps and spasms, breathing difficulty, headaches, calcification in vital organs, kidney stones and kidney failure.

The symptoms of his illness are now so severe that he is no longer able to lead a normal life and has been forced to stop all sports and strenuous physical activities as well as drop out of university.

Mr Fadhul's quest for better health began with a Google search, where he typed in the name of his disease and came across a website for the US Hypoparathyroidsim Association Incorporation.

"I registered there as a member and I put out my name and my story," he said at a Press conference held at the Joslin Diabetes Centre yesterday.

"While reading bulletins on the site, I came across a new medical treatment and learned about the first patient who used it - Hela Ruth from Iceland.

"I corresponded with her and she told me about Dr Karen Weiner, who was the first doctor to use this treatment. She (Dr Weiner) told me about the company who made the medicine and it was willing to help me."

With the support of the Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society (BHRWS), which launched an appeal for Mr Fadhul's treatment in August, the drug is now available at the centre.

The new drug will make Mr Fadhul's treatment a much easier and less time consuming task.

It will be administered by staff at the centre, who will be liaising with the pioneers of the drug in the US, said centre specialist Dr Nasreen Al Sayed.

Dr Al Sayed, who will oversee his treatment at the centre, said the cure was not guaranteed.

"It's not like a cold where we give a patient treatment and they go away okay - we can't say it will cure him, but we hope it will improve his life," she said.

Mr Fadhul has said he hopes to resume his electrical engineering degree at Bahrain University if the treatment works.

He thanked his doctor Ghazi Al Mahroos for going beyond the call of duty in monitoring his condition as well as the Health Ministry, the BHRWS and the Press for their support and efforts.

BHRWS secretary general Faisal Fulad thanked all people involved for their efforts to support "the right to treatment and the right to live".

"Money is not important, it is the life of a person which matters," he said.

so they closed down the mall for MJ... lol

Only the games part not the whole mall.

He went with his children...I didn't realize his children were here...Guess i never really thought about it...

Check out the rate of car increase in bahrain, crazy:

The King Faisal Highway is earmarked for immediate expansion at a cost of around BD64 million, the Shura Council heard yesterday.Ten roundabouts will also be replaced soon with traffic lights to ease traffic congestion.

They are located in A'ali, Government Avenue, Salmaniya, Ras Ruman, Palace Avenue, Salmabad and Sanad as well as near the Hilton Hotel and Al Andalus Garden in Manama.

General Directorate of Traffic director-general Brigadier Shaikh Daij bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said three roads leading to Al Fateh Highway were also earmarked for expansion by 2011.

He was responding on behalf of Interior Minister Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla on plans to ease traffic congestion on the request of council member Hassan Buhussain.

Shaikh Daij said Sitra's causeway would also be expanded from two to three lanes, with the possibility of a fourth lane being added in the future.

He said a new traffic law was being prepared by the Interior Ministry to be submitted to the National Assembly for approval.

Under the new law, cars older than five years cannot be imported into the country.

Shaikh Daij said a total of 295,484 cars were registered with General Directorate of Traffic last year, an increase of 36.4 per cent from 216,639 cars in 2000.

"More quality public transport companies will be allowed to operate in Bahrain to ensure that people use public transportation rather than buying their own personal cars."

Shaikh Daij said that Bahrain was on its way to introduce the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), a computer application used to solve transportation problems.

"Transportation professionals say that the there is no solution to urban congestion problems, but ITS will help provide the technology to enable people to make smart travel choices," he said.

He said that cars are also being inspected to ensure they do not harm people's health or the environment.

However, according to Mr Buhussain, 10 to 15 per cent of Bahrain's children were suffering from asthma, due to diesel particles.

"Twenty-three per cent of diesel-powered cars have passed inspections, but this doesn't mean they were safe, because they continue spreading their poision and harming our children," he said.

"These cars are dangerous on our roads and should be restricted to certain timings, because they were behind traffic congestions and a large numbers of fatal accidents."

Mr Buhussain said Bahrain has paid a high price for its unclear traffic policies.

"It is true the ministry is working hard to improve traffic legislations and come up with better road facilities in co-ordination with others," he said.

"However, the problem is not with legislations or facilities, it is with cars increasing by an average of 15,000 each year.

"This means the number of cars would rise to 375,000 in the next five years, without us being able to accommodate them."

Am also sure you heard about those idiots who staged a riot in the airport, what a bunch of uncivilized ppl. They need brains before rights.

Riot?

Yup go to the gdn and read about it. Heard about it last night, silly man.

yea and they did it in an airport aswell :bash:

I dont understand why there is such big influnce from religious figures in bahrain....ofcourse some have good intentions and are smart aswell....but sometimes I feel like people only choose to admire these guys becuase of their "divine" words and studies!!! :bash:

lol, when did u have those categories?

Congratulations, I love the Gahwa :D

Posted: 27-12-2005

http://manager.albawaba.com/img/new_sys/mediabank/13220_mb_file_ce034.jpg

Prominent Syrian singer Asalah Nasri has taken Bahraini citizenship, granted to her by Bahraini King Hamad Bin Issa Al Khalifa. The singer was granted citizenship a few days after she gave a spectacular performance in the operetta “Love and Loyalty” in celebration of Bahrain’s Independence Day.

According to the London based Elaph, Bahrain’s King attended Asalah’s concert and was intrigued by the singer, and personally thanked her for being part of his country’s celebration.

link (http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Syria/193082)

^^ must have been quite a show :D

No way, she's bahraini lol.

We need more concerts. Yalla, many singers are becomin bahraini, MJ maybe in the future :D.

Oh nooooooooo!!! i just noticed what happened to my post count!! i was edging on 500 yesterday! :bash: :bash: man i just noticed this i dont know how long its been happening for!!? is this normal!??! Maybe I should already be 1000+!!! :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash: :bash:

b.spirit can u raise it back to 500 by anychance?

Nope, well I can tell you if threads are deleted, you lose posts. I honestly lost over 1000 in the 3 years I've been here.

Damn...well I guess I shouldvt have partici[ated in controversial threads!

Hehe chillllllll.

Man I just came back an hour ago from uni, 14 hours non-stop solid work.

Thank god I laughed a bit :).

Agool, china suraj hal dekan (pic by ferrous):

http://static.flickr.com/37/78556331_44ac98b305_o.jpg

Now this is sick, I mean it:

A 16-year-old Bahraini boy has been arrested for raping his younger sister and brother on the same day.

He started with his 13-year-old brother, then turned his attentions to his sister, aged 14.

The horrified parents discovered the attacks when they returned from an outing, having left the younger children in what they thought would be the safety of their own home, supervised by the elder brother, said sources.

The boy attacked the girl, forcibly stripped and raped her, then threatened her not to tell anyone.

But she told her 46-year-old father what had happened.

The younger boy then came forward, saying that his brother had also raped him in the house, on the same day, said sources.

They said the distraught father was forced to call police to arrest his own son.

The older boy admitted the attacks when questioned by police, said sources.

They said it was one of the worst cases of incest-rape that police here ever had to deal with.

Happy New Year guys :).

Have a great one.

Happy new year everybody

welcome to 2006 everyone. happy new year :)

so what did u guys do for the new years then...i went to trafalgar square to watch the fireworks and countdown....Unfortunately the fireworks were being held near westminister and we could only see a few lights and sparjkles blocked by the buildings!

I could tell you I saw the whole fireworks, basically all of london's skyline, not kiddin, all of it. My friend went to the countdown and he took amazin videos and pics which am gettin today (was supposed to go there). Unfortunately, I have exams so I can't do much until am done although.

I could tell you I saw the whole fireworks, basically all of london's skyline, not kiddin, all of it. My friend went to the countdown and he took amazin videos and pics which am gettin today (was supposed to go there). Unfortunately, I have exams so I can't do much until am done although.

Seems like you live in a highrise :D one of my friend lives on the 16th floor in a marble arch flat and you can also see a clear view of the london skyline even as far as canary wharf!!

Yup hehe I can see everythin :D. I'll show you a pic soon.

Check this out:


BD470,000 in overtime!

MANAMA: Several Bapco employees have reportedly claimed overtime worth BD470,000.

A probe committee has been set up to question employees, said Bapco financial and administrative director Hussein Redha.

A final report will then be submitted to the Bapco board to decide on action against the erring employees.

about the new year....I went to the Royal thai Rest - Gulf hotel . it was ok sort of mature and away from seroz's party but food was perfect ( I dont drink) nothing much really !

Gulf hotel food is the bestt :) I especially love sato :cheers:

Gulf hotel food is the bestt :) I especially love sato :cheers:

Went there with my parents for my bday, I love japanese food :D.

And ya, gulf is the best hotel for food.

wow, Sato (california maki, EBI sushi, Unagi.. )missed that i must go tomorrow

Bahrain top book publisher

Bahraini authors published 132 books, according to the latest United Nations Development programme report, which places the island state at the top of the Arab world in terms of publications per capita. But overall the average publication of seven books per million people in the Arab world was very low by world standards.

Also, we're tops in the economic freedom, in the whole mideast for I dunno what consecutive year. Once we were 3rd, now 25th, we can do better am sure with this fta. The burden is gov. intervention and trade policy. This should change.

well whichever day you celebrate it ..... Happy eid guys :)

Eid Mubarak to Bahrain :)

happy eid all :)

man is it just me or has B.Spirit been missing for a while now?! :eek:

Yeah i know....its not just u...

COme back B-Spirit....We need u, to help liven up our beloved forum :)

man where the hell are all the Bahraini forumers?! its been dead for a while now. I feel like im the only one left! I guess im just spending too much time on SSC. I better reduce my time here cuz my work is soon gonna pile up again :S

p.s. i think we should do some sort of advertisement campaign across the net to get more Bahrainis to join,

i agree, more people should know about the forum

Well this is fun:

Jackson's veiled attempt at shopping in Bahrain

MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) -- Pop star Michael Jackson was spotted shopping in a Bahrain mall on Wednesday, hiding his face behind a veil and donning a black robe traditionally worn by women in the Gulf.

http://i.a.cnn.net/cnn/2006/WORLD/meast/01/25/bahrain.jackson.ap/story.jackson.bahrain.ap.jpg

:crazy:

His was with three children, apparently his own, who also had their faces covered by dark scarves. An unidentified woman accompanied them.

The pop star, who seems to be settling in the Persian Gulf, was seen leaving Marina Mall in the Bahrain capital, holding a child by the hand. On the way out a back door, he shook hands with security guards.

The woman -- also dressed in the black robe called an abaya, jeans and a scarf that partially covered her face -- had the two other children. All three children were wrapped in black scarves and wore yellow shirts and sweatpants or khakis without robes.

Since his June acquittal on child molestation charges in California, Jackson has made several trips to Bahrain as a guest of Sheik Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the son of Bahrain's king.

He reportedly was negotiating a position as a consultant with a Bahrain-based company that plans to set up theme parks and music academies in the Middle East.

On the mall outing, Jackson wore an abaya, pants, a white shirt and men's shoes. His head and face were wrapped in a black veil and he also wore black gloves.

The veil, abaya and gloves were of a style typically worn by conservative Bahraini women.

The woman asked photographers to respect their privacy and told them they were scaring the children before they left in a white Lexus Infinity with darkened windows.

AAJ Holdings Ltd., owned by Ahmed Abu Bakr Janahi, said it wants to hire the 47-year-old Jackson to give advice on setting up entertainment businesses. He reportedly is building a home in Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf linked to Saudi Arabia by a bridge.

In November, Jackson stirred controversy in the United Arab Emirates by entering the ladies room in a shopping mall. His publicist said Jackson, who arrived in Dubai as the guest of a champion rally driver, did not understand the Arabic sign on the door and left the bathroom when he realized his mistake.

But local newspapers reported that the performer was applying makeup in the woman's toilets in a Dubai mall. Jackson's host, Mohammed bin Sulayem, dismissed the story as rumor.


http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/nm/20060125/2006_01_25t101143_316x450_us_bahrain_jackson.jpg

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/nm/20060125/2006_01_25t101201_344x450_us_bahrain_jackson.jpg

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/ap/20060125/capt.xhj10201251137.bahrain_michael_jackson_xhj102.jpg

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/rids/20060125/i/ra4177645704.jpg

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/nm/20060125/2006_01_25t101123_450x321_us_bahrain_jackson.jpg

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/ap/20060125/capt.xhj10101251139.bahrain_michael_jackson_xhj101.jpg

Jackson, a reclusive resident of the Gulf island country since being cleared of child molestation charges, was accompanied by his sister, Janet, far right, and two other children on the shopping outing.

http://us.news3.yimg.com/us.i2.yimg.com/p/nm/20060125/2006_01_25t101036_250x450_us_bahrain_jackson.jpg

:badnews: Helloooooooooooooooooooo, is anybody there?

This forum is dead now

At least Bahrain has a forum of its own. None for Tunisia. Or any African nation besides South Africa...

Here's some potentially good news vis-á-vis the socio-political scene...

I'm not great with politics, but superficially at least, i understand that there's a problem with too many religious parties and societies...They have too many religious agendas...Seggregating the sexes, bla bla ba...In my opinion...We're a 'moderate' muslim country...We should stay that way...Not become a 'conservative' one like Saudi, or the UAE in a way..The secular and more liberal crowd in Bahrain need better and more powerful representation...Hopefully this society will do the trick..

___________________________________________

New 'secular' society on way
By TARIQ ******

A NEW secular political movement is planning to declare itself on March 5, with the aim of giving more breadth to Bahrain's political scene.

Heading the effort to establish the society is lawyer and activist Abdulla Hashim, who says that it aims to counter the dominant influence of Al Wefaq National Islamic Society.

Mr Hashim said that all of Bahrain's opposition societies, including the secular ones, are currently being sidelined by Al Wefaq.

Mr Hashim said the new movement would not include the word 'Islam' in its title and would aim at including people of all ethnicities and religions.

"We believe that Al Wefaq serves the interests of Bahrain's Shi'ite population while others like Al Asala Islamic Society serve the interests of Sunnis," he told the GDN.

"Our movement will be working for the good of the country as a whole. It will not be a religious organisation and could include Muslims, both Sunni and Shi'ite, Christians, Jews and other people."

Mr Hashim said that the movement would be unofficial in the beginning but that its founders do plan to establish it as an official society under Bahrain's political societies law, in the coming months.

He hopes the society will help transform the political scene, also giving more strength to existing secular groups, which he considers to be weak and far from the political mainstream.

"We want to broaden the political landscape. Currently even secular societies such as the National Democratic Action Society have no choice but to follow what Al Wefaq does in order to retain support," he said.

Mr Hashim said that the movement would declare its aims at an event to be held on open ground area near the Muharraq Police Station on March 5.

More details will be announced nearer the date.

But i don't really think, when they say secular, that they really mean secular as most westerners would understand...Maybe i'm wrong, i don't know...But by secular, they just mean not strongly motivated by religion...No religious agendas...And not mentioning the world 'Islam' in the name of the society, as the article says...

That's good news. Religion, any religion, has no place in politics or law...

good news, i hope this will shut those islamists MPs' mouth

u do realize that it wouldnt make any difference dont u? Especially when the Islamist shiiti movement who boycotted the elections before will join the election this time. The parliment will be full of sunni and shiiti Islamist.

Every one has an agenda so if they chose applying religion as their agenda in the parliment that is their choice. This is democracy after all dont u think?

I hope that the bahreinies will vote for the seculair party :)

u do realize that it wouldnt make any difference dont u? Especially when the Islamist shiiti movement who boycotted the elections before will join the election this time. The parliment will be full of sunni and shiiti Islamist.

Every one has an agenda so if they chose applying religion as their agenda in the parliment that is their choice. This is democracy after all dont u think?
No i don't think smussuw...I'm personally against MP's making any religiously inspired legislation...

long live the bahraini secular society ;)

The right way to move forward. :yes: :okay:

Where the heck is everybody? Its only me and B-Patriot around these days!

Bahrain F1 to begin soon... going to watch. Go super aguri :P.

BD4m for sewerage project

MANAMA: A BD4 million project to develop sewerage network across the country has been awarded to three companies, Works and Housing Under-Secretary for General Works Affairs Naief Al Kilali revealed yesterday.

The rain water drainage project will be carried out by Bahrain Motor Company, Bahrain Pipeline Construction Company and Abdurrahman Mohammed Al Banna and Company Establishment.

The Bahrain Motor Company will execute part of the project stretching across North Muharraq and Daih, while Bahrain Pipeline Construction Company will complete the project in A'Ali and Isa Town.

The Abdurrahman Mohammed Al Banna and Company Establishment will finish its share in Al Shakura and Abu Saiba. The project is expected to be completed by August 1008.

We love you GDN ! :)

one of your ferrys sank off shore.

Guyz somebody started a thread about the World Trade Centre and BFH in the Constrution Updates thread..This is our chance to promote!! lol

http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=7851719#post7851719

Well hey everyone again. Am back. I decided to take a break from writing in the forum and see what will happen without me. I've been following closely for the last 3 months, but it seems not much has been goin on like before. I think now is a good time to liven up the forum again.

Ok boys, let me get to work now :).

Well hey everyone again. Am back. I decided to take a break from writing in the forum and see what will happen without me. I've been following closely for the last 3 months, but it seems not much has been goin on like before. I think now is a good time to liven up the forum again.

Ok boys, let me get to work now :).

Yes it was dead with out you :)

Hey Bahraini Spirit, don't copy me!

I decided to come back too after being absent from SSC for months.

(actually, I never wanted to leave. I was just busy with school and I still am busy, but I manage my time better)

Hey Bahraini Spirit, don't copy me!

I decided to come back too after being absent from SSC for months.

(actually, I never wanted to leave. I was just busy with school and I still am busy, but I manage my time better)

Lol, am copyin you hehe. You made your comeback after I announced am back :D.

Welcome back btw ;).

Good to see everyone back again!! :)

Well hey everyone again. Am back. I decided to take a break from writing in the forum and see what will happen without me. I've been following closely for the last 3 months, but it seems not much has been goin on like before. I think now is a good time to liven up the forum again.

Ok boys, let me get to work now :).
welcome back Bahraini Spirit :)

Lol, am copyin you hehe. You made your comeback after I announced am back :D.

Welcome back btw ;).


lol

thanks

I'm new here but nobody welcomed me yet.

Welcome to the forum Adel!.I havent been on much in the past month but i noticed alot of new forumers:)

Sorry Adel, i started replying to your messages and forgot to welcome you.
i'm so sorry

Welcome Adel =)

I've been a bit busy these past two weeks, i haven't been checking or posting much...
But then again there isn't too much going on, just the usual, and not much progress there either...

Life's back to normal, the great old days, my master's exams are over now, was one hellish week. All what's left is the nice part of it now :D.

Gowa Adel, welcome bro :).


welcome back Bahraini Spirit :)

Thanks bro :).

Soo did u doo any workexperience before going for your masters??? Where..?? and for how long, if i may ask...??

I have a question about Bahrain. Why is there always reclamation going on Bahrain ? I know that it's small but when I went to Madinat Hamad which is located in the centre of Bahrain I found massive amounts of empty land so I'm guessing that it's even emptier down in the South.

You're right, there are plenty of large empty plots of land, and even more to the south, but all those large empty plots of lands belong to sheikhs i believe ;)

So land that is available and actually on the market is sort of scarce...!

You're right, there are plenty of large empty plots of land, and even more to the south, but all those large empty plots of lands belong to sheikhs i believe ;)

So land that is available and actually on the market is sort of scarce...!

Aha but then why don't they sell them? Won't they gain much more money if they do so ?

I'm not in a position to answer thaat question!

Honestly, i don't know why they would want to keep ahold of all those lands... (assuming that they actually own them)

:dunno:

Maybe someone else can answer your question..

Soo did u doo any workexperience before going for your masters??? Where..?? and for how long, if i may ask...??

Hey just found this. Of course, don't mind you askin at all :).

Actually, my first degree was in comp sci. and electronics so I worked for Batelco and Geomatec in the summer. After this, I realized I didn't really wanna do this, so I switched to management and now am in Imperial College and am goin to work in Investment Mgt. here inshalla.

Btw, am still 21 :).

Thats nice... So just one summer is enough..! Thats good to hear...!

And with Investment Management you'll probably make a hell of a lot more money than boring with a boring computer crap job... You're better off this way :tongue2:

If i hadn't transferred (and wasn't considering transferring again), i could've graduated with my BSc by the time i turn 20... and gone on to do my Masters... but i think i'll be 21... Like you, when i go on to do my Masters, if not older, i hope... :)

Of course right now i'm still 19 (although apparently i sooo don't look it) and i have about another 2 yrs to go...

I've got another Q :) What do you think of MTC. Do you like or hate it (because it's Q8y :tongue2:) ?

I dont think the fact that MTC is Kuwaiti has anything to do with ppl here loving or hating it...

I dont think the fact that MTC is Kuwaiti has anything to do with ppl here loving or hating it...

No I meant in that it's foreign i.e. you would support the local company :) Anyway it was a joke :)

Lots of ppl like it... Their services are good... Batelco and MTC mostly compete on the quality of services i think, not soo much on prices.. I have my old Batelco chip, and i'm generally happy with it... And i appreciate it a lot more now, after having spent a yr in Beirut... Both companies are doing pretty well i think.. If only MTC would start providing internet services...

Lots of ppl like it... Their services are good... Batelco and MTC mostly compete on the quality of services i think, not soo much on prices.. I have my old Batelco chip, and i'm generally happy with it... And i appreciate it a lot more now, after having spent a yr in Beirut... Both companies are doing pretty well i think.. If only MTC would start providing internet services...

Aha are you saying that MTC doesn't have GPRS service or are you saying that you would like them to provide regular internet service ?

Thats nice... So just one summer is enough..! Thats good to hear...!

And with Investment Management you'll probably make a hell of a lot more money than boring with a boring computer crap job... You're better off this way :tongue2:

Actually 2 summers. The more you have on your CV the better. So what are you doing about uni, I know you said you left AUB and went to Ahlia. Are you goin to brunel later to finish it off?

Don't worry about the age, you're still young :).


And what do I think about MTC, hmm no idea Dubliner, haven't been in the country that much to judge ;).

regular internet service... Because that competition would force Batelco to improve its own internet services... And currently Batelco has a monopoly on internet services with households... Businesses though have a lot of other options i believe..

regular internet service... Because that competition would force Batelco to improve its own internet services... And currently Batelco has a monopoly on internet services with households... Businesses though have a lot of other options i believe..

Aha thanks for the reply guys :)

Well I just read this, cracked me up big time. Some of these stories are just classic comedy:

A SAUDI driver who made a mad dash across the King Fahad Causeway chased by police was finally arrested in Muharraq.

The 27-year-old businessman sped through border checks in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain during the high-speed chase.

Saudi security officers tried to force him into stopping by slamming their car into the back of his Ford, but were unable to stop him.

When he reached Bahrain he ignored border police and continued at full speed through the immigration checkpoint.

He was later arrested on Dry Dock Road, Hidd, by plainclothes police who spotted him walking along the shore.

Officers who found him had to break into his locked car because he claimed he did not have the keys.

Inside they discovered hashish in the glove compartment, along with tablets and capsules in polythene bags.

The tablets were later found to contain Carbamazepine, which is an anti-convulsant and mood-stabilising drug sometimes used as an alternative to Lithium to treat manic depression.

He pleaded guilty to charges of entering the country illegally and possessing illegal drugs in Bahrain's Lower Criminal Court, but did not show up in court to hear the verdict.

The court sentenced him to a total of 12 months in jail - six months for each charge - and fined him BD500.

He will avoid prison if he pays an additional BD200 fine to suspend the sentence.

The high-speed chase across the Causeway took place in July last year.

"He was driving a Ford car and raced through the Bahraini immigration and customs entry points at high speed without stopping to complete the formalities required to enter Bahrain," said a Bahrain immigration officer in his report.

"Bahraini immigration and customs officials tried to stop the speeding car, but he got away, entered Bahrain and vanished."

Another immigration officer said he signalled the driver to stop as he approached Bahrain, but he flashed by at top speed.

"I was sitting in the cabin and I heard the sound of a fast moving car," he said in his report.

"When I looked outside I saw a Ford car coming at full speed from Saudi Arabia.

"I asked my friend in the next cabin if he had completed the formalities with this Saudi registered car and he said no.

"Then I got out of the cabin to stop this car because the defendant kept on driving at speed and entered Bahrain without completing the formalities.

"But I could not stop him as he was driving at full speed, entered Bahrain and disappeared."

After he was arrested the Saudi driver admitted that he did not even have his passport.

However, he claimed he did not know what he was doing because of medication he was taking.

"At 7pm I got into my car and headed towards Bahrain," he said in his statement to police.

"When I reached the Saudi side of the immigration and customs point I did not stop to complete the formalities and kept on driving fast and entered the Bahrain side.

"The Saudi security men chased my car, but I did not stop to complete the formalities and they even banged my car with theirs from behind, but I kept on driving at speed and entered Bahrain.

"I did not stop to complete any formalities here also and kept on driving at full speed and entered Bahrain.

"I was arrested on the Dry Dock Road by the seaside.

"I was walking on the road when a police patrol arrested me, searched my car and brought me to the police station.

"I do not deny anything because I am a psychologically ill man and I take medicine for this illness.

"I do not have any passport with me. My passport is with my family in Riyadh."

The incident happened on July 26 and the defendant was released on July 28 on guarantee of his place of residence.

Tests showed that he had hashish in his system when he was arrested, but he denied using the drug.

"I used to take hashish two years ago, but I have stopped taking it now," he said.

"I did not really want to travel to Bahrain, but after I took these tablets I lost my mental control.

"I did not mean to smuggle anything deliberately into Bahrain."

I'm not in a position to answer thaat question!

Honestly, i don't know why they would want to keep ahold of all those lands... (assuming that they actually own them)

:dunno:

Maybe someone else can answer your question..
Most of this areas you're talking about are kept for huge investments like Alreen, Mina Al Salam, Sakhair City, and many others, south bahrain will attract lots of investors in the coming years.

Well I just read this, cracked me up big time. Some of these stories are just classic comedy:

A SAUDI driver who made a mad dash across the King Fahad Causeway chased by police was finally arrested in Muharraq.

The 27-year-old businessman sped through border checks in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain during the high-speed chase.

Saudi security officers tried to force him into stopping by slamming their car into the back of his Ford, but were unable to stop him.

When he reached Bahrain he ignored border police and continued at full speed through the immigration checkpoint.

He was later arrested on Dry Dock Road, Hidd, by plainclothes police who spotted him walking along the shore.

Officers who found him had to break into his locked car because he claimed he did not have the keys.

Inside they discovered hashish in the glove compartment, along with tablets and capsules in polythene bags.

The tablets were later found to contain Carbamazepine, which is an anti-convulsant and mood-stabilising drug sometimes used as an alternative to Lithium to treat manic depression.

He pleaded guilty to charges of entering the country illegally and possessing illegal drugs in Bahrain's Lower Criminal Court, but did not show up in court to hear the verdict.

The court sentenced him to a total of 12 months in jail - six months for each charge - and fined him BD500.

He will avoid prison if he pays an additional BD200 fine to suspend the sentence.

The high-speed chase across the Causeway took place in July last year.

"He was driving a Ford car and raced through the Bahraini immigration and customs entry points at high speed without stopping to complete the formalities required to enter Bahrain," said a Bahrain immigration officer in his report.

"Bahraini immigration and customs officials tried to stop the speeding car, but he got away, entered Bahrain and vanished."

Another immigration officer said he signalled the driver to stop as he approached Bahrain, but he flashed by at top speed.

"I was sitting in the cabin and I heard the sound of a fast moving car," he said in his report.

"When I looked outside I saw a Ford car coming at full speed from Saudi Arabia.

"I asked my friend in the next cabin if he had completed the formalities with this Saudi registered car and he said no.

"Then I got out of the cabin to stop this car because the defendant kept on driving at speed and entered Bahrain without completing the formalities.

"But I could not stop him as he was driving at full speed, entered Bahrain and disappeared."

After he was arrested the Saudi driver admitted that he did not even have his passport.

However, he claimed he did not know what he was doing because of medication he was taking.

"At 7pm I got into my car and headed towards Bahrain," he said in his statement to police.

"When I reached the Saudi side of the immigration and customs point I did not stop to complete the formalities and kept on driving fast and entered the Bahrain side.

"The Saudi security men chased my car, but I did not stop to complete the formalities and they even banged my car with theirs from behind, but I kept on driving at speed and entered Bahrain.

"I did not stop to complete any formalities here also and kept on driving at full speed and entered Bahrain.

"I was arrested on the Dry Dock Road by the seaside.

"I was walking on the road when a police patrol arrested me, searched my car and brought me to the police station.

"I do not deny anything because I am a psychologically ill man and I take medicine for this illness.

"I do not have any passport with me. My passport is with my family in Riyadh."

The incident happened on July 26 and the defendant was released on July 28 on guarantee of his place of residence.

Tests showed that he had hashish in his system when he was arrested, but he denied using the drug.

"I used to take hashish two years ago, but I have stopped taking it now," he said.

"I did not really want to travel to Bahrain, but after I took these tablets I lost my mental control.

"I did not mean to smuggle anything deliberately into Bahrain."

How stupid!

theres a thread in skybar asking "what is youre priministers salary?"... :lol:

in the not so distant future.
http://static.flickr.com/49/141659069_3e0982ac11_o.jpg
B.S. I told you they had plans to link busaiten and seef.

in the not so distant future.
http://static.flickr.com/49/141659069_3e0982ac11_o.jpg
B.S. I told you they had plans to link busaiten and seef.

Really, when did you tell me? Can't remember hehe. Bahrain Bay looks different though. I suppose this is a vision for the next 20 years or so. I'd love to see all that greenery, we really need it.

The sketch of the planned road work in today’s Al-Ayam contains the exact same master-plan as the one I posted above. B.S. I told you about it, when I mentioned I had a reliable friend say hes seen plans for a huge reclamation project in the pipeline above the diplomatic area which is roughly the same size as the northern town.

http://static.flickr.com/47/142734109_1b1375f956_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/44/142734108_6a3f0dc8fb_o.jpg

also the area they blanked out fits in with the plans for the new airport.

http://static.flickr.com/50/142736086_c15b3b8c0b_o.jpg
http://static.flickr.com/45/142736085_44ecf497cb_o.jpg
http://static.flickr.com/54/142737955_f38230de4e_o.jpg

another difc vs bfh thread....

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=8410734#post8410734

AsSalaaaaaaaaaaaam alaikom ... ween al Gahwah ... Subbo al Gahwah ..

How is Bahrain today .. ^_^

:booze:

guys did u hear that batelco scrapped their unlimited broadband!! How annoying is that!

guys did u hear that batelco scrapped their unlimited broadband!! How annoying is that!

Yea, to prevent illeagel networks

Yea, to prevent illeagel networks

ya i heard but its a bit unfair really for the people who actually pay for it properly...Like Families in Bahrain share one broad band connection in the whole house and use it quite alot so they are gonna have to limit their usag now...And i dont think there was a need for batelco to do this because they are still a very profitable company even with all those illegal networks....Maybe they can find another solution to those that doesnt affect all their consumers.

A top Middle Eastern broadcaster is to move its headquarters from Dubai to Bahrain in a coup for the island which further demonstrates the success of this year’s Bahrain International Tourism Expo (BITE).
The event’s official television channel, Arab Tourism Channel (ATC), will soon start relaying out of Bahrain.
Jamil Wafa, of Magnum Exhibitions and Events Management (MEEM), organisers of this years three-day event at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, said: “We are planning to move the channel’s headquarters from Dubai to Bahrain.
“BITE was useful for ATC as the expo provided the gateway to introduce the new channel to the region.”
ATC camera crews and presenters were a common sight at BITE 2006 with events in the main exhibition hall broadcast to the channel’s viewers around the Arab world.
The channel’s Web site sets out its aims for the region, reading: “The Arab world has huge unexploited tourist capacities. These resources are not properly invested, and local citizens as well as foreign citizens suffer from lack of tourist knowledge.
“Informing local and foreign citizens about different Arab tourist places and making them aware of the original characteristics of each would make it easier for them to choose the most suitable place to spend their vacation.”



hopefully a sign of more to come. with dubai’s fast increasing cost of living, it might be good for bahrain. :)

^^yeah thats very true....if i recall correctly dubais boom started with the whole shopping scene and cheap prices.

Well back, haven't been here much in the last week, loads of work. I tell you what though, am going to post some of the best pics you can find and some are jaw droppin. Look out for them :).

And about the TV stations, am sure you know as I do that most of those in Dubai actually wanted to come to Bahrain but we didn't have the facilities. We'll see what happens in the future.

People started a Boycott Batelco Site... And the CEO of Batelco actually responded!

Check it out at http://www.boycottbatelco.com !!

And about the TV stations, am sure you know as I do that most of those in Dubai actually wanted to come to Bahrain but we didn't have the facilities. We'll see what happens in the future.
I didn't know that... Very Interesting.. What sort of facilities are u talking about..?

Why r people boycotting Batelco ???

Most of the decisions they come up with go through the TRA..Its the TRA that makes it hard for Batelco to get anything going on for it like reducing price or having new services..Telecomms are not on the same playing fields and Batelco is suffering big time as a result.

Don't ask me...! I haven't even really checked out the site... But i will....

(Btw, it sounds a lot like either u, or ur dad works for Batelco :) lol)

Sorry for wasting a post, but i'm Celebrating my 1 Thousandth Post !!!!

Yaay.. :D

:cheer:

Don't ask me...! I haven't even really checked out the site... But i will....

(Btw, it sounds a lot like either u, or ur dad works for Batelco :) lol)

Ur not far from it..I used to work there but left because of my jerk of a manager.So i know how they do things and the role of the TRA.

I hope you enjoyed my surprise. Thought I might leave you with this (courtesy of $ilveroo). Good night :).

http://static.flickr.com/55/146488409_3d626d44bb_b.jpg

BS I liked the suprises...Each one.This one tops it ;)

B.S if u gave these to "american" magazines..u could very well be a rich rich man.. :P

BAHRAIN
Riffa Views – Riffa Golf Course
Owner: Arcapita Bank – Bahrain International Golf Course Company (BIGCC)
Budget: Estimated $300 million

Scope of work: The project includes the construction of 750 residential units, swimming pools, tennis courts, a health club, international school, commercial facilities and a number of community parks and children’s play areas.
Status: Design work is in progress and tender documents for main construction contract will be issued in August 2006.

Ramez Mall
Owner: Ramez International Trading Company
Budget: Estimated $16 million

Scope of work: The project calls for the design and construction of a two-storey shopping mall, which will consist of cinemas, a food court, retail outlets and a car park on the ground floor. The mall at Isa Town will cover an area of 17,000 sq m.
Status: The client has still to get construction licence and related requirements from the government. Ramez International Trading Company plans to start construction in the second quarter 2006. The project might not go through competitive tender.

Lulu Island Resort – Masterplan
Owner: Lulu Tourism Company
Budget: Estimated $630 million

Scope of work: The project in Manama consists of the construction of a resort which will include a 500-room five-star hotel, 70 chalets, a residential complex of 40 buildings and a spa with built-up area of 552,000 sq m. Designed by Spowers and Pentago, the development also includes a yacht club, boutique retail facilities, Arabian Gulf villas, a spa hotel, lagoon apartments, theatre/exhibition halls and a marina. All buildings will be set in a landscaped garden. Access for yachts up to 110 m in length is provided and a number of beaches enhance the relaxed lifestyle of these new islands.
Status: Design work is in the final stage and no tender documents for the infrastructure work are expected to be released during the second half of 2006.

Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa Sports City
Owner: Bahrain Ministry of Works and Housing
Budget: Estimated $24 million

Scope of work: The project in Isa Town calls for the design and construction of a main gate, a 3,580-seat stadium, a multi-purpose sports hall with capacity for 2,500 spectators, tennis courts accommodating 70 spectators, an indoor 50-m-wide eight-lane Olympic swimming pool for 300 people, a smaller eight-lane 25-m-wide pool for 176 people and car parking facilities for 730 cars.
Status: Mohammed Jalal Contracting Company was appointed as main contractor for Shaikh Khalifa Sport City in February. Construction work is expected to start in April. Tilke is acting as consultant on the project.

Bahrain International Airport – Phase 1 – Terminal Extension Package
Owner: Bahrain Ministry of Works and Housing
Budget: Estimated $132 million
Scope of work: The project entails the engineering and construction of 10 additional airplane stands with eight aerobridges as well as a 25,000 sq m extension of the existing passenger concourse. Bahrain airport has seen a seven per cent growth rate in the number of passengers over the last couple of years. The project calls for the expansion of the existing terminal in a two-phase development and is set for completion in 2007.
Status: The client is expected to award two contracts – one for PMC and the other for the masterplan. Bahrain Ministry of Works and Housing is carrying out the project management in-house.

EURO University Project
Owner: EURO University
Budget: Estimated $225 million

Scope of work: The project calls for the design and construction of the first university in the Middle East to specialise in environmental sciences. The development will house students and staff from the university, but will serve as a model for environment-friendly development. The city is also expected to draw international environmental research and consultancy companies.
Status: No tender document has been issued for the main construction contract. The client plans to issue tender in June 2006. Obermeyer Planen & Beraten Gmbh is the consultant on the project.

Bahrain Equestrian resort – Phase One – Villas
Owner: Bahrain Wiggins
Budget: Estimated $300 million

Scope of work: The project calls for the design and construction of 1,000 luxury villas and 1,500 apartments, which will be built around caves and waterfalls and also includes a choice of 15 dining outlets.
The development is located around the existing race course in Sakhir.
Status: Design work is in final stage and tender document will be issued in six months time.

Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) – Phase II – Diamond Tower Southern Residential Complex Harbour Row Dhow Harbour and Hotel
Owner: Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Company (BFH)
Budget: Estimated $300 million

Scope of work: The project calls for the design and construction of the Diamond Tower, Southern Residential Complex, Harbour Row, Dhow Harbour and Hotel on a reclaimed area under the second phase of Bahrain Financial Harbour.
Status: Concept design is completed and detailed design has started.
Towers of Phase two of Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) will be tendered as separate packages.

B.S if u gave these to "american" magazines..u could very well be a rich rich man.. :P

Hehe, it's not mine unfortunately ;).

I found somethin interestin and I've been readin lots about it in the papers. Mohd Khalid seems seriously into this issue:


Devil worship claims by MP

A BAHRAINI MP claims Bahrain has hundreds of devil worshippers and is calling on all segments of society to unite to combat what he described as a growing problem. MP Shaikh Mohammed Khalid says he has had secret meetings with two upper class Bahrainis who admitted to him that they worship the devil.

He says they spoke to him on the condition of anonymity and could not reveal who they were.

But he said they described to him "despicable" acts they performed together involving perverted sex, alcohol and heavy metal and death metal music.

"They hold regular meetings at compounds and large villas and sometimes even hotels and in the desert," said Mr Khalid.

"They include many Bahrainis, especially from the higher classes, who go to private schools and universities.

"Unfortunately, Bahrainis from rich families are often not given a religious upbringing and can easily fall into these things.

"We all need to unite to fight this problem. Families have an important role to play, as does the media. This issue isn't even discussed on Bahrain Television once a year."

Mr Khalid will present a lecture on Devil Worship at the Abu Baker Al Sidiq Mosque, in Hoora, tomorrow after the Isha prayer.

He said he also has reservations about rock music, but added that he realised it wasn't all about devil worship.

"However, there are certain types of rock, such as heavy metal and death metal, that are known to encourage devil worship," he said.

The issue of devil worship has been a recurring one in the local Arabic Press.

Many organisers of rock concerts in Bahrain say their reputations as law abiding citizens have been affected by this "hysteria".

Nineteen-year-old Bahraini Mohammed Ishaq was an organiser of one such event, which was labelled as a devil-worshipping gathering in an Arabic newspaper article.

He says such allegations do a lot of harm to innocent people.

"Rock music, including death and black metal, are just styles of music.

"People wearing black to these events is just a fashion statement and nothing more."

Bahraini Jassim Al Janahi, 21, has had similar allegations made about events he has been involved in.

"The things that have been claimed in the paper, including the kidnapping and killing of children, are not things that even devil worshippers do."

Mr Al Janahi said that many critics fail to understand that even when metal bands sing about devil-related themes, they are not being serious.

"It's just for show and sometimes they mean it as a joke," he said.

Hey guyz if you looked at my post earlier about all the bahraini projects going on..have a look about Lulu island..hopefully this isnt going down the drain!

Hehe, it's not mine unfortunately ;).

I found somethin interestin and I've been readin lots about it in the papers. Mohd Khalid seems seriously into this issue:


Devil worship claims by MP

A BAHRAINI MP claims Bahrain has hundreds of devil worshippers and is calling on all segments of society to unite to combat what he described as a growing problem. MP Shaikh Mohammed Khalid says he has had secret meetings with two upper class Bahrainis who admitted to him that they worship the devil.

He says they spoke to him on the condition of anonymity and could not reveal who they were.

But he said they described to him "despicable" acts they performed together involving perverted sex, alcohol and heavy metal and death metal music.

"They hold regular meetings at compounds and large villas and sometimes even hotels and in the desert," said Mr Khalid.

"They include many Bahrainis, especially from the higher classes, who go to private schools and universities.

"Unfortunately, Bahrainis from rich families are often not given a religious upbringing and can easily fall into these things.

"We all need to unite to fight this problem. Families have an important role to play, as does the media. This issue isn't even discussed on Bahrain Television once a year."

Mr Khalid will present a lecture on Devil Worship at the Abu Baker Al Sidiq Mosque, in Hoora, tomorrow after the Isha prayer.

He said he also has reservations about rock music, but added that he realised it wasn't all about devil worship.

"However, there are certain types of rock, such as heavy metal and death metal, that are known to encourage devil worship," he said.

The issue of devil worship has been a recurring one in the local Arabic Press.

Many organisers of rock concerts in Bahrain say their reputations as law abiding citizens have been affected by this "hysteria".

Nineteen-year-old Bahraini Mohammed Ishaq was an organiser of one such event, which was labelled as a devil-worshipping gathering in an Arabic newspaper article.

He says such allegations do a lot of harm to innocent people.

"Rock music, including death and black metal, are just styles of music.

"People wearing black to these events is just a fashion statement and nothing more."

Bahraini Jassim Al Janahi, 21, has had similar allegations made about events he has been involved in.

"The things that have been claimed in the paper, including the kidnapping and killing of children, are not things that even devil worshippers do."

Mr Al Janahi said that many critics fail to understand that even when metal bands sing about devil-related themes, they are not being serious.

"It's just for show and sometimes they mean it as a joke," he said.
Guys, Devil worship is not that big as those extremists say. it's only few people however Mohammed Khalid and his friends are trying to make this an issue to prove to the society that bahrain needs to follow the " Shareaa Islamiyah"

Who r these devil worshippers?????

I have never seen anyone or heard anything about it other than from the newspapers.I wonder if they are just confused kids or what their situation is really like that drove them to something soo stupid.

Guys, Devil worship is not that big as those extremists say. it's only few people however Mohammed Khalid and his friends are trying to make this an issue to prove to the society that bahrain needs to follow the " Shareaa Islamiyah"

Just to add to your reply cause I was so sleepy when I posted that, election are comin up and our heros are tyrin to spring up now to rescue us.

I mean, that shiekh matar guy, I never heard about until this year, where has he been for the last 3 years.

Oh well, these guys want to shove religion up people's throats.

HEY, VOTE FOR THE BIC http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=8460327&posted=1

^^ cool we have 8 votes so far..

voted! turkey is only one on level with us so far.

I just voted

Hey B-Patroit why did you vote for Turkey :moods:

bahrain is the first now :)

How did u know I voted for Istanbul too Adel!!!!!!!!! :shocked:

I did that cuz its a turkish frend of mine that created the thread, and we agreed to both vote for both Istanbul and Bahrain... Which we did, we were the firt voters..

So there you go, i hope ur less angry at me now :tongue2:

How did u know I voted for Istanbul too Adel!!!!!!!!! :shocked:

I did that cuz its a turkish frend of mine that created the thread, and we agreed to both vote for both Istanbul and Bahrain... Which we did, we were the firt voters..

So there you go, i hope ur less angry at me now :tongue2:

Cause you can see who voted for what, it's a public poll ;).

Don't worry he's not an undercover agent that would hunt you down :).

Ohh, ok, u can see before u cast ur vote i guess... Because after u vote u can only see who u votrd for..!

^^ lol.. click on the number on votes of any of the choices

hey guys anyone heard news about a project coming up called THE MURJAN TOWERS..

Noo, which ones are the Murjan Towers anyway...!?

are these big towers??

Guys, I've been trying to promote Bahrain in one of the Kuwaiti sites, please help by posting there. Anything that has to do with real estate, tourism, and projects. Please post in Arabic, don't repeat posts, and be neat .

http://www.alnwady.com/stock/showthread.php?t=16480

Adel i think we need to promote this forum in bahraini sites so we can get more mmembers to participate....not many bahrainis know about this forum....and its the only forum about bahrain development that i know of

i love that render of bfh u posted...ill pst in in the thread here if u dont mind :D

Agree

Yes been steeling a lot of stuff from here, and will continue to do so if you don't mind. I've posted a link to this forum if you noticed. Guys the Kuwaiti Site is actually a stocks site, it's very informative and would help you a lot in developing your stock trading knowlege and ability if you are into that stuff.

everybody is welcome to share information from here :)

Guys, I've been trying to promote Bahrain in one of the Kuwaiti sites, please help by posting there. Anything that has to do with real estate, tourism, and projects. Please post in Arabic, don't repeat posts, and be neat .

http://www.alnwady.com/stock/showthread.php?t=16480

Good work Adel :)

I really like the way kuwaities talk to people, they're really nice and polite

Guys I can't resist: Reyes de Europa :D. Hard luck Arsenal.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41656000/jpg/_41656596_trpphy416jpg.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/422820_BIGLANDSCAPE.jpg

Boo hoo..i think arsenal were a much better team (atleast until the first half)..the ref wasnt great..but good game and congratulations barca!

Guess who's back:

Ajram vows big thrills

LEBANESE heartthrob Nancy Ajram is set to thrill thousands of fans tonight at the Gulf International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Gulf Hotel.

Nancy will be accompanied by Emirati superstar Saud Abu Sultan, one of the rising singers in the Arab world after his amazing performances in Super Star music talent show.

She is promising her fans a song about Bahrain, prepared on the occasion of her return to the country, after riots broke out in protest over her planned show at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, Sanabis, two years ago.

"Bahrain's people are hospitable and welcoming and I have been here several times before to perform at private parties. This is my second official visit and I hope I will be able to entertain everyone," she said last night at a Press conference at the Gulf Hotel.

"I know that people are eager to see me perform on stage and I hope I will live up to their expectations," she said.

"I know that everyone loves my songs and this has put a huge burden on my shoulders on how to please them, but my selections in the past have been received well by all and I hope it will be the case this time also.

"Today, I hear my songs, which are not intended for children, being sung by them, which shows that children enjoy my songs. I am planning to release a new album for children soon.

Nancy said she was to film her new video clip Ihsas Gadeed (The New Emotion) with top Arab director Saeed Al Marook in the upcoming weeks.

Guys I can't resist: Reyes de Europa :D. Hard luck Arsenal.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41656000/jpg/_41656596_trpphy416jpg.jpg

http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/UCL/422820_BIGLANDSCAPE.jpg

ahh the smell of victory

this should be interesting anyone know where in manama this is going to be?


SHH to open £2m Nu Asia restaurant in Bahrain
http://www.leisureopportunities.co.uk/images/270406-nuasia.jpg

UK-based architects Spence Harris Hogan (SHH) has designed and branded a new £2m (US$3.6m, 2.9m euro) 300-seat restaurant called Nu Asia in Manama, Bahrain, for Al-Hilal Enterprises Group.

The restaurant will offer Chinese, Indian, Japanese and Thai dishes. The 15,000sq ft (1,400sq m) eatery will feature three interlocking eating areas with bespoke lighting and furniture.

Nu Asia is aimed at both families and young adults. Local architect Lewan Engineering has started work on site, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

SHH also plans to develop a new shopping mall café brand in Bahrain.

link (http://www.health-club.co.uk/newsdetail.cfm?codeID=15020)

Will it have a bar, i wonder...

Its a big expensive restaurant, it should... But it says "Families" which isn't a good sign...

Economy in the limelight
By REBECCA TORR


BARAIN'S economy, investment opportunities and company profiles are to feature in a top UK publication.

The British Airport Magazine chose Bahrain as its sole feature for its September edition because the country was ranked number one in the Middle East and North Africa region on the Index of Economic Freedom 2006.

"The British business community was surprised and impressed that Bahrain ranked above UAE and Kuwait," magazine investment analyst Waqas Ahmed told the GDN.

"They were impressed with Bahrain's economy, trade and investment laws, and that foreign companies can have a hundred per cent ownership, which is not the case in a number of GCC countries."

Mr Ahmed and magazine investment analyst Claudia Muro are in Bahrain for the next couple of months to conduct an investment analysis on the country's economy.

They will be assessing different sectors of the economy including finance, trade, industry, tourism, transport and telecommunications.

"We realise Bahrain used to be the economic hub of the Gulf 15 to 20 years before the Dubai economy came up, so we are looking at it with a fresh look to show that it is still on the map," said Mr Ahmed, who began the analysis in the country two weeks ago.

"We are looking to meet with all government ministers along with the chief executive officers of the top 100 companies.

"We are doing an in-depth analysis, we are looking to feature individual corporate profiles and give an overall assessment.

"We are looking at the companies that represent each sector the best, they include the Bahrain Financial Harbour development and the Bahrain insurance sector among others."

Mr Ahmed said the main reason for featuring Bahrain was to show the British and European business communities some of the opportunities for joint ventures and investment in the country.

The GCC-EU Free Trade Agreement, he said, was in its final stages and once implemented would open up a whole host of investment opportunities.

"It means one whole region will be able to trade freely with another region and this will open up a wealth of opportunities for companies to have businesses in Europe," explained Mr Ahmed.

"The GCC is already taking advice from the EU and want to achieve a single currency by 2010, like the EU already has.

"UK and Bahrain have the strongest ties and His Majesty King Hamad visits London regularly to increase economic collaboration.

"There is so much happening between the two countries with joint ventures and so on."

The British Airport Magazine is a Press group specialising in country-themed business magazines targeted at the busy international business community who regularly travel through the London Heathrow Airport.

The magazine's September edition, which is expected to have more than 200 pages dedicated to Bahrain, will be distributed at London Heathrow Airport, the British Embassy in Bahrain and various GCC chambers of commerce.

It will also be available on line at www.britishairportmagazine.com. After Bahrain, the magazine plans to feature other Gulf countries, possibly starting with Qatar, or Dubai, added Mr Ahmed.

Hey, i was saying stuff in the Riyadh Financial District thread.... Why i think Bahrain is much better positioned to be, and remain for quite a while, the financial centre of the ME.... I know we have a lot of banks, etc... Don't we have major banks with regional HQ's in Bahrain??? Do u know? and some of the biggest (like the proposed al Masref)??

Look at this guys facts
Fact 1: King Abdullah Financial District is bigger than BFH and DIFC and the financial center in KAEC.

Fact 2: Riyadh is the home for the headquarters of 6 of the largest 10 banks in the Arab World.

Fact 3: Riyadh is the home of the largest stock market in the Middle East and North Africa and the 11th in the world.

Fact 4: Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the arab world and the 23rd economy in the world.

Fact 5: Riyadh is the home of the regional offices of 6 international banks.

Fact 6: Riyadh has a population of 5 million people.

Fact 7: Riyadh is the home of 4 of the top 10 richest men in the Middle East.

Fact 8: Riyadh has a GDP of $ 25 billion (Twice the GDP of all of Bahrain).

They're impressive, can u help me gather facts for Bahrain...?? But relevent ones, cuz imo, GDP being double, size, rich ppl, population are all irrelevent..!!

^^ might sound stupid but most major international banks would rather have their headquarters anywhere but Saudi because of lack of alcohol and family freedom. think about it, when a major deal is taking place and big shots from all over the world are gathering the bank has to throw dinners and receptions and alcohol is a must to non-arabs. plus the foreign bankers would certainly rather raise a family in Bahrain then Saudi due to freedom for his their wives to drive around, and for the kids to have means of entertainment.

its that simple answer that saudi’s thing will never be a compepitor to BHF no need to look for facts. I think the saudi’s are looking to gather and establish local banking, and trust me that’s enough as it is.

Some quick notes

1. Ok 4 of 10 richest in Riyad, but where is their money? it's in the USA ,London,Lebenon, and banks in Bahrain. Alwaleed is an example.

2. Suadi stock market is all speculation and badly run, analysts say they hope some day Gulf Stock Markets will be more like Bahrain where prices reflect the performance of companies and more rational and professionally run.

3 BMA is the best Banking regulator in all the Gulf.

4. Bahrain is the biggest center of Islamic banking in the world.

5. Population does not count,or Egypt would be the center of banking in the region

6. Imar prefered to establish it's bank Al Salam in Bahrain Why didn't it go to Dubai or Riyad

7. The biggest Islamic bank UIB established in Bahrain by Khalid bin Al Waleed why didn't he go to Riyad

8. Size is not everything ,what matters is how much of it will be actually built and who will fill it , for all we know it may be a goast town.

9.The banks they are talking about are all domestic banks.

This is just what comes to mind for more I need to make some reseach

Also in addition to Alcohol and freedon Riyad has no social life local people don't mix with expatriats even arabs, no good restorants no discoes it's all dry. Executives want to hire secretaries ,women clerks to liven and soften the work environment and that can't happen in Riyad.

Bahrain is in the center between Saudi, Kuwait, and UAE it's very close to Riyad, Bank managers go in the morning and come back to Bahrain in time for lunch, plus with all the technological advance you don't need to be that close to your clients. I bet most clients in Riyad prefer to drive their car to Bahrain and have a good time while doing buisness than having their account manager coming to them it gives them an excuse to leave the wife. Also a lot of the big money is in the Eastern Province and Bahrain is closer to them than Riyad.

Guys someone called persian :weirdo: voted for all the circuits but not Bahrain. All the Agam here please straiten him up . :bash: :jk:

Ya and one more. There's no Sea View in Riyad and we know bank executives love to look at the sea while thinking of ways to rid you of your money.

I just came from Riyadh last week...Believe me any Bank executive goes there and then comes to Bahrain to compare the two would pick Bahrain.

Even people from Riyadh are fed up of it and want some breathing room.

Guys someone called persian :weirdo: voted for all the circuits but not Bahrain. All the Agam here please straiten him up . :bash: :jk:

forget him bro....hes probably just some kid.

GO HERE... SAY SOMETHING (IF U CAN)...

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=348428&page=3

GO HERE... SAY SOMETHING (IF U CAN)...

حلوه هذي تذكرني بالمدرسه لين تهاوشوا قالوا لبعض "اطلع بره اذا فيك خير

Building boom a long way to go
25/05/06

BAHRAIN'S real estate market is a long way from reaching saturation point, Economic Development Board (EDB) chief executive Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa said yesterday.

He said that saturation was bound to occur eventually, but that the market still had a long way to go before it reaches that stage.

"Saturation will be determined by the market and will result in a slowing down of investment, but we don't see that happening any time soon," said Shaikh Mohammed.

"But we are keeping an eye on it."

He was speaking to the Press at the opening of the Middle East International Property and Investment Exhibition (Property Arabia 2006) at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.

The first-time event, held under the EDB's patronage, runs until Saturday and is organised by Arabian Exhibition Management.

It features more than 40 exhibitors showcasing current and future real estate developments in the Gulf, along with property from as far afield as Malaysia and Australia. A gala dinner was held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa last night in honour of participants.

Shaikh Mohammed said the exhibition was beneficial to both home-seekers and investors. "It allows for all the major developments to be present under one roof, making it easy for them to explore the options available," he said.

"We are pleased that the private sector has begun taking a more active role (in the real estate sector) in the last two to three years."

The majority of major developments and companies active in Bahrain occupy centrepiece stands at the event.

They include Abraj Al Lulu, Al Areen Desert Spa and Resort, Al Khaleej Development Company (Bahrain Investment Wharf, Tala Island, Tameer Residence, Saar Villas and Adhari National Park), Amwaj Islands, Bahrain International Insurance Company, Bahrain Financial Harbour, Century 21, Cluttons, DTZ Bahrain, Durrat Al Bahrain, Grnata Real Estate, Ishbiliya Village (Al Enma'a), Landmark Bahrain, Muawadh Management & Marketing Co (Lulu Island) Riffa Views and WS Atkins & Partners.

The event is open from 10am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm today and Saturday, and from 4pm to 8pm tomorrow. Entry is free and children below 16 won't be admitted. Real CAPITA is the main sponsor.

what is the signature about?

http://future.yourfreewebspace.com/moqata3a2.jpg

^^ here you go

http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/06/05/15/10039942.html

so he causes problems with shiiti and sunni Islamisist :rofl:

We just love to talk:

Mobile phone penetration at a record high

MANAMA: Bahrain recorded the highest cellular penetration rate in the Arab world last year, according to a report released by the Arab Advisors Group yesterday.

Bahrain's penetrate rate stood at 105.8 per cent followed by the UAE at 99pc.

UAE and Bahrain also had the highest fixed line penetration rates in 2005, which stood at 27pc and 26.6pc respectively.

"The Arab cellular markets are growing at a high pace, while the fixed line markets are stagnating," said Arab Advisors Group consultant Serene Zawaydeh.

The report says that with the advent of new operators and increased competition last year, subscribers for 39 examined cellular operators in 18 Arab countries reached 84.844 million.

Al Jawal and Maroc Telecom sustained their top rankings by end of last year, with 11.845 million and 8.237 million subscribers respectively.

The simple average for the operators' Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) was $26 in 2005 for cellular services compared to a fixed line ARPU of $45.70.

Qatar's Qtel recorded the highest ARPU for both fixed and cellular services in 2005.

Arab Advisors Group is a specialised research, analysis and consulting company focused on the communications, media and technology markets throughout the Middle East and North Africa region.

here (http://www.fme.nl/Download/Export_Sales/KuwaitAprilBahrain2006.pdf) is a recent commercial bulletin by the dutch embassy in kuwait about the projects in bahrain and economic outlook. most of the stuff you already now, but its an interesting read.

^^^ Nice read. Well, here we go, I hope atleast one wins this time. They could prove much better than most of those useless men we have in the current parliament.


21 women to contest the elections...
MANAMA

MANAMA: Twenty-one women are poised to run in Bahrain's parliamentary and municipal elections. This was revealed yesterday by the Supreme Council for Women.

It is opening a special centre to groom the women and boost their chances as candidates. This will be run in conjunction with a UN Development Programme to provide them with consultancy and technical help.

Eighty-one women, including candidates, are taking part in the council's political empowerment programme.

Some of them attended the last weekly parliament session, to familiarise themselves with procedures, said assistant secretary-general Hala Al Ansari.

This will be followed by a visit to the Shura.

The election candidates were last night named as:

Amina Abbas Ghuloom, Amina Salman Al Hassan, Badria Al Musallamani, Hanan Al Khawari, Amal Al Jowder, Jameela Al Sammakh, Sihem Bubshait, Shima Al Dossari, Shahzalan Khamis, Safia Saleh Al Hassan, Safia Ali Bu Alai, Dawia Al Alawi, Aisha Al Kaoud, Fatma Mohammed Salman, Fawzia Abdulla Zainal, Mariam Al Rouai, Muza Fuzai, Hamien Al Rowaei, Sabah Al Dosari, Sukhaina Al Akhri and Masooma Al Muhafda.

Our honorable "National Hero" is at it again. I agree with some of the things he says especially since the MOI is just a pile of trash. But man, this guy is always on fire. He seriously needs to take a chill pill and relax a bit. I think this guy is seriously putting a good show to be voted back again.

Sometimes I wonder how on earth does he know all the details.

Anyways, without due delay, here you go:

Tourism law push vowed

http://gulf-daily-news.com/source/xxix/072/images/MP.jpg

EIGHTY-TWO furnished apartment buildings were caught violating Bahrain's tourism laws during the first three months of the year alone, it was revealed yesterday.

Legal action has been taken against 56 furnished apartments and the remaining 26 will be referred to the Public Prosecution soon, said Information Minister Dr Mohammed Abdulghaffar.

He did not go into details about the violations, but said they related to operating without a licence or "violating tourism rules and regulations".

The minister also admitted the inspection team was too small and that a request for more inspectors had been submitted.

"Some have already cleaned up, but others haven't and legal action will be taken according to the violations," Dr Abdulghaffar told MPs during parliament's session yesterday.

"The inspection work is carried by four Tourism Affairs inspectors alongside policemen from the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) vice squads.

"The number of inspectors is not enough and is incapable of handling all tourist outlets.

"We have asked the Civil Service Bureau for more."

The minister was responding to a question by MP Shaikh Mohammed Khalid Mohammed on the number of tourist facilities in the country and the ministry's procedures for punishing those who break the law.

"We have cancelled the licences of six tourist facilities, while 34 have seen their licences revoked for a period between one to three months," said Dr Abdulghaffar.

He added that inspection teams at hotels had uncovered a number of violations, which were being handled accordingly.

"Violations range from unlicensed extra outlets, immoral acts, illegal tips, distributing alcoholic beverages in unlicensed places, serving during non-opening timings and bands exceeding the number of members allowed.

"Five-star hotels are allowed to have unlimited tourist facilities, four-star hotels should not exceed eight, three stars should not exceed six, two stars should not exceed five and one star should not exceed three."

However, Dr Abdulghaffar said tackling prostitution was not the job of the ministry.

But he added that whenever it is discovered in tourist facilities under the ministry's supervision those responsible are immediately contacted.

"Facilities involved in prostitution have been closed down and their licences were immediately cancelled," he said.

"But cleaning the country of prostitution is not just the ministry's work, it is a joint effort with others concerned.

"The ministry is currently working on family tourism projects, which target all family members, away from sleaze and prostitution."

However, Shaikh Mohammed accused Dr Abdulghaffar of using vague words and speculated that it would take 10 years to rid Bahrain's tourism industry of sleaze.

"The ministry needs at least 10 years to fix it up, because from the statistics it has presented I believe it is crippled," he said.

"Ministers have been replaced often at this ministry, but laws haven't changed and this why none of the ministry's family tourism projects have seen light.

"The biggest question is when will the ministry implement its family tourism plans? In the year 3000 maybe!

"The minister says that hotels' tourist operations will be curbed, but this is all talk because they are still violating the law without anything being done.

"We say that Bahrain wants to protect its reputation as a clean tourism country, yet it has four inspectors only.

"It is evident now why so many violations have been recorded in just three months.

Shaikh Mohammed claimed that apartment buildings that are breaking tourism rules are owned by powerful businessmen who are above the law.

He also questioned when human rights groups would try to tackle the prostitution issue.

"Young underage women have been seen regularly going to those (furnished) flats and I don't know when human rights and women's organisations in this country will take action," he said.

http://www.bahraintribune.com/Archive/June_2006/4_6_2006_p13-1.jpg
Sunday, June 4, 2006

Bahrain Tribune

Kingdom’s infrastructure development is second to none in the region. The rapidly changing skyline of the Kingdom is a proof that one day Manama will soon be Manhattan of the Gulf, a German writer Michael Teupel told Bahrain Tribune yesterday.

Michael, whose book titled Oman the Sultanate became the best-seller on Amazon.com after the three weeks of its launch in March this year, is well poised to write a book on Bahrain focusing on the economic, social, political and infrastructure development aspects of the Kingdom.

The book titled Bahrain the Kingdom will be the first written in German and later will be translated into English and Arabic. The book will be published by Hamburg-based ‘Traveldiary’ in three months. The book will also include a biography of His Majesty the King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in addition to the brief history, political openness and freedom of expression enjoyed by the people and the residents in the country.

The book will highlight the ongoing major infrastructure projects like Bahrain Financial Harbour, World Trade Centre, Amwaj Islands, Durratul Bahrain, Al Areen, Abraaj Al Lulu etc.

He said that the infrastructure development is complementing to the overall economic growth of the country. “The outside world, especially the German investors need to know about the economic success of the Kingdom and they should come and invest here instead of going in any other GCC country posing more risks to their investments. Bahrain with a stable economic outlook and being a financial capital in the Middle East needs to be highlighted through books.”

“The economic boom in the Kingdom in last 10 years is incredible and the credit goes to the leadership and the people of Bahrain. I have been a frequent visitor to the Kingdom in the last decade and in this period Bahrain has emerged as one of the most stable economies with political openness and more free society. That is what the Westerners want to see in this part of the world.”

“Bahrain has also emerged as tourist destination in the region.”
Bahrain, Michael said, is also very much familiar among the German fans of Grand Prix. “The F1 track in Bahrain and hosting of successful events has made the Kingdom totally distinctive nation in the Middle East region. Due to F1 Grand Prix, Michael Schumacher’s races on this track are some other common factors for which Germans want to learn more about Bahrain.”

man do i want this guy to come polish my car, cause he sure knows how to polish. lol

This book should be interesting. I'll ge hold of it once it comes out.

On another note, this is what we really want, I don't understand why they just thought about it:


New green Bahrain plan

BAHRAIN will soon launch a new strategy and action plan to combat desertification, a government official announced yesterday.

It includes producing 73 million cubic metres of treated sewage water a year to irrigate 3,500 hectares of agricultural land as well as trees planted on roadsides.

The national strategy and action plan are currently being drafted in co-operation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Municipalities and Agriculture Ministry had set up a committee in 2004 to focus on completing the task.

"Work on the national strategy and action plan is now nearing completion," said Agriculture Under-Secretary Kadhim Al Hashmi.

He said one of the ministry's main objectives was to increase the green areas in the country and combat desertification.

"This includes putting an end to the depletion of ground water and safeguarding existing agricultural lands," said Mr Al Hashmi.

"For this reason, the ministry is implementing a plan to increase production of treated sewage water for the irrigation of agricultural land."

He was speaking at the opening day of a conference being held to mark World Environment Day yesterday.

The three-day event, at the Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa, is organised by the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife in co-operation with UNEP.

It aims to stimulate awareness of the environment and enhance political attention on the issue.

Experts from across the GCC are attending the event to discuss what action must be taken to protect the region's environment. The theme of this year's observance of World Environment Day is Don't Desert Drylands, coinciding with this year being the International Year of Deserts and Desertification.

The public commission's director-general Dr Ismail Al Madani said the Bahrain's constant development and lack of rainfall was putting it at risk of long-term damage.

"Here in Bahrain we are not too far from desertification and its negative impact," he said.

"Our groundwater is salty and rare and our green areas are small.

"All kinds of developmental activities put real pressure on our natural resources.

"These should make us seriously consider avoiding this international phenomenon."

Dr Al Madani said the images of famine in Africa in the early 1980s were still clear in his mind.

"Such disasters did not come by surprise or without prior warning," he said.

"It was due to the neglect of human beings and of some of the environmental indicators warning of the dangers to come.

"Desertification is a problem in many regions, particularly in Africa and Arab countries due to their geographic location.

"In 67 per cent of the Arab region the average rainfall does not exceed 100mm a year.

"Desertification covers 9.7 million square kilometres of the region's total area, amounting to 68pc. "Most of these areas fall within the Arabian peninsula."

On a funnier note hehe. Sometimes I don't understand how people think in this way:

Hotel brawl over air conditioning

A HOTEL guest and member of staff were arrested after an argument about air conditioning led to a brawl.

A Kuwaiti man, aged 49, allegedly beat a 40-year-old Egyptian hotel worker with his aghal (the black cord worn on Arabic headgear) during the fight, while the Kuwaiti claimed three hotel workers, including the Egyptian, attacked him.

Sources told the GDN that the argument started when the hotel guest complained that his air-conditioning system was not working properly.

Hotel staff claimed the brawl broke out after the Kuwaiti slapped a Moroccan receptionist. The Kuwaiti and Egyptian men were detained for questioning following the fight, but no further details were available

Treated Sewage Water is one of the reasons why large plots in Hamala and Janabiya are increasing in price, soon these areas will be green, having a big lawn in your house will be cheap and easy cos the water will be plentifull and cheap.

actually I've heard about treated sewage water from before so this would be a boost for us living in the budaiya area

allegedly beat a 40-year-old Egyptian hotel worker with his aghal (the black cord worn on Arabic headgear) during the fight

that cracked me up :rofl: