tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165764852024-03-23T22:16:26.725+04:00Dubai Consumer MirrorReflections of a Dubai consumermoryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.comBlogger441125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-42426103174435391272010-07-13T09:38:00.007+04:002010-07-13T10:30:36.826+04:00"For !*^# sake, Do something"<div>I was at Mall of the Emirates running some errands last evening when I received a call. Knowing it was one that demanded concentration, I stood on the side next to a wall and away from the human traffic. </div><div><div><br /></div><div>In front of me was an escalator. I noticed a young lady, standing at the bottom of the escalator and it seemed that her Abaya got caught in the mechanical steps. </div><div><br /></div><div>I kept looking at her as she stood there for almost good minute and I was thinking "OK, she will free herself any moment now.... any moment." </div><div><br /></div><div>That didn't happen and she started struggling between trying to pull the end of her Abaya out of the escalator teeth-like edge and holding on to it so that it doesn't fall off her body or pull her down to the ground. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was thinking: "okay, any minute now.... someone will help her.. someone should notice by now.." By then, I completely lost focus on the ongoing phone call. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then I noticed that people were casually passing by from behind her, seeing that she is stuck, basically doing nothing to help and walking away. </div><div><br /></div><div>A couple of guys slowed down but kept their distance with no one attempting to break her free. I think the fact that she was wearing a Abaya intimated them.</div><div><br /></div><div>I looked up and spotted a security guard standing at the upper end. He obviously did not notice all the action downstairs. </div><div><br /></div><div>I yelled: "Hey security! Security!" </div><div><br /></div><div>When you yell like that, in a rather echo-y mall, a lot will pay attention and a lot did. Except the security guy who was basically about 10 feet away from me. </div><div><br /></div><div>It took 2 or 3 loud yells to grab his attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>"STOP the escalator!", I said when he looked in my direction.</div><div><br /></div><div>He gave me a brief "WTF" look and looked the other way. I assumed he either didn't hear or understand me. I presumed the latter. </div><div><br /></div><div>"HEY SECURITY... ESCALATOR, STOP"</div><div><br /></div><div>He looked again, saw me pointing to the lady who's Abaya is now starting to shred, but still stuck. He slammed the big red emergency stop button and rushed down to help the damsel in distress and cut her loose. </div><div><br /></div><div>I got back to my phone call.</div></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-10655253173538477242010-07-11T07:47:00.003+04:002010-07-11T09:00:24.219+04:00While you were sleepingSo, I wasn't sure what to write about this week. And though I do form an opinion about almost anything, I rarely speak that opinion - not after getting married at least.<div><br /></div><div>However, <a href="http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100711/OPINION/707109954/1080">this piece</a> got my attention. <div><br /></div><div>It was a light read that basically narrates a few twitter experiences and how, according to author, twitter is bridging gaps and making folks talk to each other, politicians, businesses, communities and individuals. </div><div><br /></div><div>Yeah, sure... why not.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I'd be careful not to totally credit twitter for that so called recent collaboration, because people have been congregating, meeting and collaborating online for quite sometime and WAY before there was any Tweeting.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_forums">Internet forums</a> and message boards were the first form of social media and community inter-collaboration. It was genre-driven and for those with common interests. Access is discretionary and you had to be active -and geeky- enough to be a member there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Around the first half of 2000's, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blog">blog</a> became the center-stage of public engagement and interactivity. Blogs made people feel more at ease in talking about their "feelings" about anything .. emotions, brands, governments. It allowed us to back our "feelings" up with multimedia (photos, video ... etc). It was the big-bang that started an era pseudo-narcissistic self expression and publishing. Some people argue that blogging is dead, I personally don't think so.</div><div><br /></div><div>The second half of 2000 was all about Facebook. Enough said.</div><div><br /></div><div>And yes, people organised events, interacted with their leaders and favorite restaurants and talked amongst each other. Charity events [Gaza, earthquake reliefs ..etc], business activities [conferences, meetings ..etc], and even political [elections, campaigns..]. </div><div><br /></div><div>All of that was happening before Twitter. You just had to be part of the community and follow whats going on. </div><div><br /></div><div>HOWEVER... with the enhancement of mobile Internet; its reach, access and affordable-ity; it became much easier for folks to have fast Internet, on capable devices [BBs, iPhones] with relatively affordable cost.. [if you live outside the Middle East, of course]</div><div><br /></div><div>Then Twitter came along.. and unless you locked your twitter page, ANYONE can access the on-going conversations on Twitter. It was light on the web and the device, easy to setup/use and anyone can have one. Now, news follow you, not the other way around. </div><div><br /></div><div>That was the novelty. Twitter was in the right place at the right time. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, one must realize that Twitter is merely a distribution platform. People use it to spread the word. (some <a href="http://dubaiconsumermirror.blogspot.com/2010/06/top-10-most-annoying-twitter-users-in.html">annoying ones</a> use it as a chat site, but thats not the case here)</div><div><br /></div><div>People have been using online platforms for a very long time, and the fact that people didn't hear or know about them, doesn't mean they didn't exists. It simply meant that some weren't in the picture.</div><div><br /></div><div>When it comes to making and forming opinions, twitter is NOT the place, blogs are. You can definitely use twitter to inform folks about your opinion [thank you tinyURL!], you can send snippets of that opinion in oddly written, vowel-less 140 characters, but you'd always want to point to your blog - or opinion piece section in the newspaper. </div><div><br /></div><div>And when it comes to collaboration and content sharing and generation, Facebook -whether you like it or not- will still lead the pack for the coming near future.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>If we understand the difference between social media platforms, understand the thin red line that breaks them apart, perhaps we will end up with a world where politicians will tweet/collaborate a bit more themselves [I (heart) <a href="http://twitter.com/QueenRania">Queen Rania</a> btw!], and restaurants that do better sandwiches than they do tweeting about them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now RT that if you like...</div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-38713847011287041952010-07-03T08:52:00.004+04:002010-07-03T09:39:58.459+04:00CupCake KarmaLast night, the Mrs & I decided to pick up some cupcakes for the kids from the mall.<div><br /></div><div>It turned out that the famous NY bakery ran out of my daughter's favorite flavor, as it was about 11:45 and the shop was about to close. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, the chef said he is happy to prepare new ones if we could wait a few minutes. We were happy and asked if he can prepare 4 cupcakes.</div><div><br /></div><div>While the chef went along doing what he does best, a window cleaner was cleaning the window that overlooked the chef's cupcakes frosting/prep station. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don't think the chef noticed him, as I am sure he is used to the sight of people standing and watching him work behind the window. </div><div><br /></div><div>While the cleaner's hands were moving involuntarily, his eyes were glued to magical cupcakes construction process like a 40yr old toddler. </div><div><br /></div><div>My wife whispered to me: "Are you seeing that look?" Me: "yeah .. "</div><div>Wife: "Do you think he ever tried any of them?"</div><div>I whispered back: "At AED 18 a pop, probably not.."</div><div>Wife: "Lets give him one out of the four.."</div><div><br /></div><div>I asked the baker if he can pack 1 cupcake in a separate box, 3 in another.</div><div><br /></div><div>The chef turned around and said: "We only have box for 2 and box for 6 cupcakes... I will fill both boxes with extra cupcakes, <b>on the house, </b>for you to try out our collection."</div><div><br /></div><div>So, the window cleaner ended up with 2 cupcakes, 1 more than we intended to give; and we ended up with 6 cupcakes, 3 more than we intended to have.</div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-55900883979124941272010-06-23T22:11:00.004+04:002010-06-24T06:49:21.996+04:007 Rules For a Flawless Food Ordering Experience in Dubai<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;font-size:small;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Yes, ordering food by phone in Dubai can get really wrong .. order arriving late, arriving wrong or missing items, the guy doesn't have change..etc. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">However, over the years, I have learned a thing or two about ordering food that can make things much smoother... and I'll be sharing some of those tips with you: </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">1. Don't be a smart ass</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">For the 5 minutes you will need to make the phone order, drop your Shakespearian English and take off your grammar cop hat. You are talking to someone who didn't have a father who wasted a fortune -big enough to feed an entire African village for 10 years-, to send his spoiled brat to an ivory league business school in Europe or the US. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Speak in simple English, talk clearly, not loudly, they are not deaf.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Put it this way, if English is YOUR first language, then the phone order guy's English is FAR better than your [Arabic/Hindi/Urdu/Tagalog] well ever be. </span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">2. Smile!</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">A friend who works as a radio presenter once told me that they are always asked to SMILE when they are on AIR. People can, believe it or not, hear your smile. And looking at the number of assholes the phone orders guys have to deal with everyday, trust me, your call will be like a breath of fresh air.</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> </span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">3. Get personal</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> </span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Start the conversation with a "How are you, today?" Ask for the phone guy's name and use it in your sentences. Tell the phone guy something about your day or how hungry you are and can't wait to eat the food you are about to order from his joint. You'd be surprised with the response you'll get.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">One trick i do is that I note down the name of the phone guy of every restaurant on its respective menu. And yes, I have a "menus folder". Mind you, that only works with small restaurants that do not use maga call centres like KFC, Hardeez and the rest of the 'Americana' cartel.</span></div></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">4. Take a chill pill</span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Never call if or when you are angry or agitated. Negative vibes travel thru the phone lines and the order phone guy may feel that you are not happy with the whole ordering experience; which may or may not be true. Nevertheless, a happy phone order agent will prioritize your order and make sure you get your correct delivery and before anyone else.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It is also recommended not to call if you are bored, horny or </span><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">constipated..</span></div></div></div></div><div><b><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></b></div></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">5. Decide before you call</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">If you don't have a "menus folder" already, start on making one right now. Write down your order, especially if it was a large one or requires multiple modifications. There is nothing more annoying than putting the phone guy on hold while your wife cant make up her mind on whether she wants regular or curly fries.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And not having a menu is not a good excuse anymore, most proper restaurants have websites. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">6. Ask for advice, even if you don't need it </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Working the phones and asking people whether they prefer their chicken "original" or "spicy" can be soul crushing over time. Be that person who makes the order phone folks feel that their knowledge is relevant and valuable. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Ask what would they recommend as a meal size for the number of people you are ordering for, or ask for their own favorite item on the menu or anything they'd recommend. Acknowledge and thank them for their advice.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">This will make the phone order agent feel good about his/her job, hence you're order will get the attention it deserves.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">7. The last Tip</span></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Phone guy is happy, he tells delivery boy to take extra care of your order and make it quick. Now, its is your turn to take it home with a generous tip. </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></b></div></b></div></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"></span><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Those biker boys literally risk their lives to get your double cheese burger in time. And if you think i am exaggerating, trying riding a delivery bike on Sh. Zayed road with all these Landcruiser Lunatics. </span></div></b></div></b></div></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></b></div></b></div></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">In my case, the tip is the standard 10 percent of the total bill. I usually throw in a 5-er if its extra hot or humid out there.</span></div></b></div></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></b></div></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Also, drivers typically cover the same geographies and DO REMEMBER houses that tip well. In most cases, houses that tip well, get the first stops when drivers have multiple runs to do.</span></div></b></span></div></b></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">There you have it, 7 different ways of simply 'being nice'. </span></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div></b></div></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><b><div style="font-weight: normal; display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I know you guys might know more .. leave them in your comments and help spread the love.</span></div></b></div></b></div></b></div></span>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-26534518906455846182010-06-09T07:01:00.013+04:002010-06-09T11:15:50.437+04:00Top 10 Most Annoying Twitter Users in the UAEYeah, blogging is dead (or is dying anyways) and instant updates and microblogging is the big thing now. Everyone wants you to make your point in 140 characters or less.<div><br /></div><div>If you have something you really really want to discuss at length, then yeah .. maybe I'll look at your blog later when i decided to clear out my RSS reader...</div><div><br /></div><div>ANYHOO... i've been "observing" this twitter business for a good couple of years now. And yes, there are days when I just put down my phone and stop looking at my twitter app for the rest of the entire day, simply because it gets soo ANNOYING. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>And here are top 10 most annoying UAE Twitter types in the UAE:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Overshare-er:</b> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:00 "yaaaawn... just woke up *stretch*"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:05 "I just pooped"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:10 "having breaki.. nomnomnom check it out: http://twitpic.D1sGusTing" </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:20 "what should I wear? choices choices..."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:22 "Ok, I am wearing a blue top, beige bottoms"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:24 "Completely changed my mind. Beige top, blue bottoms.. yaay"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:41 "Can't find my keys, WTF" </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:42 "Found my keys, they were in my hand. lol, #FAIL"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">08:50 "I love my Toyota Prius"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">09:00 "Twaffic report; SZR is not blocked.. what happened?"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">09:37 "Just got to work, no parking #HateMyJob"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">09:39 "Have to park in paid zone .. #RTA #FAIL"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">10:o0 "boss is here, he stinks, no deodorant. Oh wait, thats me. ROTFL. #FAIL" </span></div><div><br /></div><div>So on and so forth... you get the picture, vividly </div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Hypocrite-er</b> </div><div>Disclaimer: these tweets below really took place: They were slightly altered to protect the true identity of the douche bags that tweeted them:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"OMG, on my way to work on SZR and this guy is like talking on the phone while driving. WTH"</span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(Yeah, because texting/tweeting while driving is less dangerous you dumb moron)</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"I hate the fact that we have to work on Sundays in this country. #FAIL"</span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(I don't see you complaining about having Fridays off you double-faced-dweeb)</span></i></div><div><br /></div><div>Jeeeez..</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Serial RT-er</b></div></div><div>People who ReTweet (RT) everything and anything they see. They sometimes RT without even reading what they RT. One word for you: *Unfollow*</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The I.am.in.love.with.myself-er</b> </div><div>These guys are a special species. Mainly girls with a severe case of a disease commonly known as <i><b>LackOfSelfConfiditus</b></i>. And here are the major symptoms: </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Birthday celebrations usually last for 4 to 6 weeks, 2 to 3 weeks before and after.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Create Hashtags about themselves. I suggest #AttentionWhore.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Seldom a day pass without posting a pick of herself with that "I am doable" pose</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Has a special folder called 'Twitter Display Photos' that is updated almost daily</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Tweets about her entire evening upcoming itinerary because..well you know.. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- A deep believer that the day she falls sick must be declared as a national holiday </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Usually claims that everyone in the office hates her because she is hot n' all the guys want to do her. Where in reality, no knows she exists.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Promoter-er</b></div><div>Usually hold usernames like @BrandNameMiddlEast or @Company_UAE or something lame like that. They do nothing but spam their users with their boring company news, special offers, retweet EVERYTHING or ANYTHING that mentions their boring company news or special offers. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don't entirely mind that one, but I'd prefer if they (1) do it moderately and (2) treat followers as human beings and interact with them as such, not as "unsegmented target market". </div><div><br /></div><div>Though I must admit, there are very few exceptions... Oh well, moving on</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Self.Proclaimed.Social.Media.Guru-er</b></div><div>An alarmingly growing breed and my personally most hated one in the bunch. Funny thing is, the ones i actually consider as true social media experts, never say so publicly. </div><div><br /></div><div>These "gurus" walk around thinking they are some kind of celebrities. They rarely follow back other twitter users because, well, who is interested in mortals. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thankfully, i don't follow any of them and but I had the miss-fortune of listening to some of them talk in a couple of events. </div><div><br /></div><div>I asked a couple of well connected people about those Guru's REAL background and found out that most of the so-called "gurus" are people who lost their original jobs or weren't good in what they were trained to do originally and decided to become "social media experts" ... </div><div><br /></div><div>Yes yes... I really need someone to teach me how to update my facebook page, jackass. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Sir-ask-a-lot </b></div><div>This type treats Twitter as a source of money and information. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, BUT only when you give something in return and not treat your followers as your personal secretaries. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sample tweets:</div><div> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Does anyone know has the number to Dubai Taxi? TIA"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Someone knows the telephone of headhunters? TIA"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Can someone Google the telephone number for DEWA and send it to me? TIA" <i><- I swear this tweet happened </i></span></div><div><br /></div><div>I rest my case... </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div style="font-weight: normal; "><b>The Sir-I-beg-a-lot</b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; ">Usually related and sometimes carries the title <b>Sir-ask-a-lot</b> as well. Now these guys will do anything to get free stuff and discounts from everyone, regardless to how absurd their requests are.</div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><div>Sample tweets:</div><div></div>"Can someone bake me a cake and send it to me for free? in return, i'll tweet about eating it.."</div></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Can someone drop me everyday from Ajman to Jabal Ali? I'll follow you on twitter in return"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"I am looking for a someone to design a website for free. I'll include your name in the 'about section'"</span></div><div><br /></div><div>What a leech.... grow some dignity for f#$%'s sake.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The multi-account-synchronize-er</b> </div><div>Yes, great idea to sync your Facebook, Tweetdeck, Foursquare, Gawalla, Buzz, Youtube and blog all together... Because, really, I can't have enough of the 3 twitter accounts you post on already.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The moan-whine-whinge-er</b> </div><div>Yes, wipe that smug off your face. You know exactly who i am talking about. Not a day will pass without him/her having to moan about, in random order: </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Traffic</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Bank</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Job</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Boss</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Etisalat <- Ok, that one is justified </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Food</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Weather</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Taxi driver body oder</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Husband/wife</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Kids</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Shopping</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Boyfriend/girlfriend</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Not having a boyfriend/girlfriend</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">DEWA</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Airports</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Annoying blogs that talk about annoying twitter types..</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">...</span></div><div><br /></div><div>These folks have turned moaning, whining and whinging into a national ... ops, sorry, i mean, an EXPAT sport. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>THERE, now you have it .. my own top 10 list of the most annoying twitter types in the UAE. Anymore that I should have included?</div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-30079467387538928172010-05-26T11:22:00.003+04:002010-05-26T12:46:00.881+04:00Finally someone paid attention!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">A blogger with multiple aliases has been plaguing UAE's blogsphere for a few years now. Counter to the true nature and spirit of this good land, his posts and his comments were full of hate to anything that is non emarati. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Some people that know him told me that he is a hybrid himself, claiming to be the product of a 3aimi (Persian) father and a German/American mother, has made it a point to ruin everything he touched and gain the spite of everyone he interacted with. He was the last thing any Emarati that I know wants to be.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">He started with the alias A blessing in tragedy, in celebration to his self claimed passion for hard rock and heavy metal band. Became known as ABIT, because his username was too friggen long to write. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">After getting banned to comment and screened by the majority of active bloggers, he'd change nicks and post as anon. Tech savvy ones would tag his IP and its very easy to know that it was him, who lives in Abu Dhabi btw, that is seeking attention. He then moved to use a new user called ultrablue or something childish like that. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms';">His last post, on a blog that he created, wrongfully called it Al-Emarati and registered via a proxy registry to avoid revealing his real identity adn details, was the last draw to many people. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Though in essence, it was nothing different than anything he usually writes in terms of racism and hate, but this time, his theme was ridicule and mockery to the late passengers of the ill-fated Air India plane crash that claimed the lives of 160 Indians and, most likely impacted thousands others in UAE, India and other places.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I refuse to link or carry some of the racist slur they published on this blog, however, the attention seeking walked into a </span><a href="http://gulfnews.com/business/general/emerging-breed-of-emirati-bloggers-1.623730"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">trap</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> that was set, either intensionally or not, by our all time favorite Gulf News.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The post is now blocked and I can't access his blog anymore as I think it was taken offline after someone that matters did not approve.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I am NOT a fan of this 'blocking business', and I have always advocated freedom of speech and self expression, but this particular individual has abused the space he was given and crossed the lines too many time, standing protected behind the mask of anonymity that he created by himself. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">He had made several attacks on me personally, even threated me that "he'd kill me if he saw me" and it wasn't the ..oh-I-am-just-kidding kindda thing. His comments are still there. If i know who he is, I will go the police with the saved emails he sent me and file an official complaint.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">His filth and of course, death threats, extended to many UAE bloggers who have been active for the past 5 or six years. He would turn anything, any topic, any post so an 'us vs. them' argument; where he represents the Emaratis as 'us' and 'them' of course, the filthy low life expats that I belong to, according to him on various occasions. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I don't personally think anything will happen to him, like spending time in jail or anything of that sort, and i wouldn't wish it for anything. My bet is that he will, most likely, get a lecture or two on manners. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Oh well.. </span></div></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-20212189434252585872009-12-02T23:38:00.003+04:002009-12-03T00:04:44.998+04:00Happy 38th Union Day<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">Celebrations this year has been different. Most people i know noticed it. The build up to Dec 2nd has been very visible every I go. On the radio, TV.. on the streets, in malls.. People from every walk of life were wearing the UAE flag scarves. Emaratis and Expats alike. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman""><o:p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; ">And it wasn't the white Land Cruisers that had UAE flag decorations this year. Almost every other car I saw over the past week was decorated. Westerners, Asians, Arabs .. all were celebrating this year. And I loved every minute of it. </span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p> But it was no coincidence. There was a driving force behind it and it was all driven by <a href="http://www.watani.ae"><span style="color:blue">Watani</span></a> by a campaign called Mutahida (united in Arabic) </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><blockquote><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">A campaign launched by Watani for one purpose: to bring together people living in the UAE. </span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><br /></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">It is to remind them to appreciate what a fabulous country we live in peacefully, irrespective of cast, creed or religion. Basically, Watani is trying to bring about the wonderful spirit of the UAE union. </span><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:black"></blockquote></span><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p> You can find more about the program thru their facebook page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/WATANI/171834654444?ref=nf"><span style="color:blue">here</span></a> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p> I think it is exactly what the country and people living here need these days. A sense of union that brings everyone together.</o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Georgia","serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black">Happy 38th. UAE<o:p></o:p></span></p>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-88169772956716850402009-10-26T06:17:00.004+04:002009-10-26T06:49:34.522+04:00Realestate Fraud<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Another </span></span><a href="http://www.arabianbusiness.com/571509"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">example</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> to how sad and disgusting the property market here has become... </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><blockquote> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Thirty eight families will find out later on Sunday if they are to be evicted from their homes in Discovery Gardens after paying a year’s rent upfront to a brokerage firm which turned out not to be the landlord.</blockquote></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; font-size: small; line-height: 20px; ">Everyone who is involved in this story is an accomplice:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Corporate Business Solutions (CBS) - I hope they find the owner and leave him/her to rot in jail </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">RERA - for lukewarm reaction and not taking a strong stand with the real victim here</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Meraas - for choosing to blame and go after the victims, not the culprit </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">RE agents - for blackmailing tenants for their commission money back in return of waiving liability.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here is my question</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">: If the brokerage firm in question (CBS) was not the landlord, how did they have keys to the units and managed to handover apartments to tenant to move in and officially register DEWA and all? Something doesn't smell right here at all .. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; font-size: small; line-height: 20px; ">I hope that everyone mentioned above sleep warm and cozy in their beds at night knowing that they can be responsible for throwing out 38 families in the street. Sick.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">[via <a href="http://www.arabianbusiness.com/">Arabian Business</a>]</span></span></div></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-32604848639211921782009-10-07T10:24:00.004+04:002009-10-07T11:01:54.948+04:00Kindle Goes International ... but<p class="MsoNormal">Labeled as Amazon's iPod, Oprah loves it and when I travel to the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">US</st1:place></st1:country-region>, every other person I meet rubs a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Reading-Display-International-Generation/dp/B0015T963C/ref=amb_link_85156411_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-1&pf_rd_r=1J8V3MJCD1QTCB3941E5&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=493222131&pf_rd_i=1284007011">Kindle</a> in my face ... <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Today, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Reading-Display-International-Generation/dp/B0015T963C/ref=amb_link_85156411_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-1&pf_rd_r=1J8V3MJCD1QTCB3941E5&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=493222131&pf_rd_i=1284007011">the news is out</a> … after a lingering wait, people outside the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">US</st1:place></st1:country-region> will have the chance to own one. Amazon cut its prices and decides to ship 100K units to international locations around the world (thats it? 100K?).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">BUT … if you happen to be one of those who really really really really really want a Kindle and happen to live in the <st1:place st="on">Middle East</st1:place>, it must suck to be you. Because Amazon is not recognizing any country in the region as worthy enough of its precious little reading toy.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Mind you, Kindle and Kindle content will be available in countries like <st1:country-region st="on">Myanmar</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region st="on">Ghana</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region st="on">Namibia, </st1:country-region>where illiteracy rates are much higher than places like the UAE, <st1:country-region st="on">Kuwait</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region st="on">Egypt</st1:country-region> and <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">Lebanon. However, avid readers of Arabia </st1:country-region></st1:place>will have to wait longer.</o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Some people suggested buying it in the US and using it here; thats not my point .. Also, I am not entirely sure using a Kindle on a non-US or non-Amazon-recognized service provider will allow me to download Kindle content (books, magazines and newspapers)..</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I am pissed and I need to point a finger at somebody to blame..</p><div></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-66231366115884410302009-10-04T21:29:00.006+04:002009-10-05T08:21:58.375+04:00Not Your Typical Robin Hood<div><div>Having a couple of trolleys in the building is always useful for the tenants. Especially when you come back loaded with shopping bags and no one is there to help you carry them.</div><div><br /></div><div>But not this guy...</div><div><br /></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkfh0uBW-DreJ5mfYyIhDjl-T72Q9WHmiJmHePbgs1-ZQiXAVfyGF9_DFw1eukwMPmGOVZ5jfGRKGvJ1mxc9i3Rkos5OlBZ-QxQ6Q2k_JlH0pcyFNE5I6b3dq7sUne__cjYYO/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkfh0uBW-DreJ5mfYyIhDjl-T72Q9WHmiJmHePbgs1-ZQiXAVfyGF9_DFw1eukwMPmGOVZ5jfGRKGvJ1mxc9i3Rkos5OlBZ-QxQ6Q2k_JlH0pcyFNE5I6b3dq7sUne__cjYYO/s400/010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388805023651799154" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2Xqoj3I5rEEmBTdtIpDqdnJGL1zqz1mzSdi7vMJXheEBdXAF9lLaJr7sWL4R9YuHUGqhnBgdGdNshAbrjQzrotj9m93LIAjtU_uwoGCxWZLfLH2j7-9Zo2ePAZRsUGvS7YbO/s1600-h/009.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2Xqoj3I5rEEmBTdtIpDqdnJGL1zqz1mzSdi7vMJXheEBdXAF9lLaJr7sWL4R9YuHUGqhnBgdGdNshAbrjQzrotj9m93LIAjtU_uwoGCxWZLfLH2j7-9Zo2ePAZRsUGvS7YbO/s400/009.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388804240914707618" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5I0SHWBrUHcXM5IbcPRLf3PcbomaD9N2_mGhoK76lgauJeRIbQMXf-GYEbpkXF8_uxS_KPK6SQb7QT5mSkwigDOG9069v6tMF3MdpREMkmmP2SEtY_KTJmSH-MTnhq8c3DkDl/s1600-h/008.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5I0SHWBrUHcXM5IbcPRLf3PcbomaD9N2_mGhoK76lgauJeRIbQMXf-GYEbpkXF8_uxS_KPK6SQb7QT5mSkwigDOG9069v6tMF3MdpREMkmmP2SEtY_KTJmSH-MTnhq8c3DkDl/s400/008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388802788102168610" /></a><div><br /></div><div>Clearly, he is keeping the cart all to himself ... </div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-39913038791015418692009-09-27T09:08:00.008+04:002009-09-28T06:52:41.127+04:007 things I like to see (New) UAE bloggers do moreI was asked once to give my thoughts on the UAE 'social media' scene -as someone who's been doing this for some time now- and does NOT blatantly yell over roof tops claiming to be the first, the best or a self-claimed-blog-twitter-guru after doing it for a couple of months.<div><br /></div><div>After a long though, here are a few tips i'd like to share with those who have just 'hopped on' the band wagon. That includes anyone who's been doing this no longer than 1 year.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Stop whining</b></div><div>Almost every new blog i visited this year is PACKED with complaints, rants and raves. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was no exception, to be honest. When i started this blog in <b>2005</b>, I started with a lot of ranting and complaining. I complained about anything and almost every inconvenience I run into in life, no matter how trivial it may be, could end up on my blog. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thankfully now, i don't do that anymore ... not as much at least :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Its easy to fall for the temptation. Almost everyone thrives on spitting out negative criticism. It gives you room to unleash ur hidden sarcastic-self, and opens doors for cynical beings to jump out of the closet. </div><div><br /></div><div>Not only that, it brings in more comments - aren't we all there for the comments?</div><div><br /></div><div>However, it takes much more creativity and energy to highlight whats good, healthy and useful. And if there is a negative experience you want to share, do so but be fair and give people the benefit of the doubt before you unleash your wrath.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Acknowledge comments</b></div><div>I do my best to reply to every comment I get here; whether for or in disagreement with the post. Reply individually to these comments. Especially ones that you haven't seen before in your blog. </div><div><br /></div><div>It may sound cumbersome to individually reply to 50 comments (if you are that lucky), but its about being courteous to those who spared a minute of their lives, to share their thoughts with you. You owe it back to them. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Get to know your first timers </b></div><div><div>I can always tell who's been here for the first time and who is a returning visitor. Many new blogs I comment on, don't even acknowledge my first-time visit, comment or interaction. I rarely go back to these blogs. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Be respectful, not repulsive</b></div><div>Some people believe they can make a stronger counter-point by adding personal insults to the blogger - just because they (1) think they are anonymous and they can get away with it and (2) they think it makes their point stronger. </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, for (1) no you are never anonymous and you can always be tracked back and (2) No, as a matter of fact, profanity makes your argument much weaker - I usuelly delete any comment that has profanity.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Visit back</b> </div><div><div>Its simple really - i'll scratch yours if you scratch mine. Always return the favor with a return visit. And if the blog you are visiting back doesn't genuinely interest you, that shouldn't stop you from leaving a 'courtesy I-woz-'ere comment' every once in a while.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, link to whoever links for you. There are tools that show who is linking to you. (if you are linking to my blog and i missed it, do let me know - happy to link back ;) )</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">6. Stick to something</span></div><div>Blogging in the earlier years, basically when this whole blogging business started in the UAE, most blogs blogged about anything and everything. Very few were specialist blogs - maybe no more 5 or 6. </div><div><br /></div><div>I see an upcoming evolution and I'd love it if the new kids on the block can play a role to define more genre-blogs: Autos, tech blogs (i know of a couple already), celeb, crafts, environmental and maybe -gasp- a few political ones. Though i still think personal blogs will always prevail as the majority, but i believe we will see more specialists coming our way.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Use technology to become a better blogger</b></div><div>Though <b>comment moderation</b> may discourage people from engaging with you, but it protects fending off spam, lamers and abusive language hurlers. Also, use <b>RSS</b> feeds to effortlessly keep track of your favorite blogs. <b>Email</b> and/or <b>SMS notifications, </b>can help you to stay up to date on who is doing what and <b> visitor stat trackers</b> to know what/who is biting and what/who isn't. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Now, while I try to stick to these tips myself, I admit I can do better at it and will do better enshallah. Nonetheless, I am quite thrilled to see that blogging has gone a long way and looking forward for more blogs to follow.</div></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-87231535949144485362009-09-17T09:26:00.003+04:002009-09-17T09:37:44.359+04:00Back to Abnormal<span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">With about a couple of days left for the holy month of Ramadan to end, we will all resuming a 'normal' life style - and to many, that includes getting back on the junk-food cycle.<br /><br />Before you go back to ordering the good old ‘triple supersized McWhopper’ with extra cheese, take a look at <a href="http://consumerist.com/5359695/hard-truth-about-just-how-many-calories-are-in-fast-food">this report by the Consumerist</a>.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Salad anyone?</span>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-56741654787703975992009-09-09T14:14:00.003+04:002009-09-09T15:00:41.388+04:00090909<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Flaot9a5cGN_2s_O1OgjdEzPY5WkooKczgL0XWzSNDJckQHtuuS0i6rw0l_2D1h_dhHx-ezi8sebclQr1gScCrq6_NhF0jDHb3_gf4gQ9gNmhd-awas9SmMTM43LINxsGEV9/s1600-h/no1trend.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Flaot9a5cGN_2s_O1OgjdEzPY5WkooKczgL0XWzSNDJckQHtuuS0i6rw0l_2D1h_dhHx-ezi8sebclQr1gScCrq6_NhF0jDHb3_gf4gQ9gNmhd-awas9SmMTM43LINxsGEV9/s400/no1trend.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379419743598778434" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">History is in the making today for Dubai, UAE and the </span></span><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Middle East</span></span></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">First, we have the launch of the highly anticipated Dubai Metro. Truly a proud moment to all Emaratis in general and the Dubaians in specific. Good work guys. Live the moment, you've earned it.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">And 2, i think its the first time ever that we get a middle eastern topic trending as No1 trend on Twitter and that is NOT related to a a plane crash, a controversial celeb visiting, a corrupt election, Israel or Iraq.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This is </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> making the headlines and making all eyes on it.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Respect goes to the 30k fine men in blue who worked (and still working) day and night to meet their deadlines. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Must also not forget the hard work of </span></span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Dubai</span></span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">’s twitter community who worked relentlessly to move #Dubaimetro up to become number one.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Here is to </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.</span></span></p>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-66336127618108888742009-09-05T09:16:00.005+04:002009-09-05T09:31:09.891+04:00IT company scams consumers<object width="320" height="265"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dlPo2yPq88k&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/dlPo2yPq88k&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="320" height="265"></embed></object><br /><br /><div>Kinda same thing that <a href="http://dubaiconsumermirror.blogspot.com/2009/06/always-seek-second-opinion.html">happened to me</a> with Emitac. Only difference is that in the US, these people get caught and (hopfully) will scam people no more. Whereas here, they win <a href="http://www.ameinfo.com/183635.html">awards</a>.</div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-39779723891957323322009-09-01T07:21:00.009+04:002009-09-01T08:50:29.210+04:00Pundit Profiles<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I get all sorts of comments on this blog. But one thing I noticed over my 5 year stint in checking out blogs and knowing bloggers... People do leave comments that does actually reflect their true nature. I narrowed down a few that I do encounter on regular basis here.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Enjoy:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The casual supporter</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Someone who only comments when feels like it. Pretty pleasant in most cases.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><o:p><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The objector</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />A person who'd only comment when finds something objectionable in your post. Usually sane and has good reasons to object against.</span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The sarcastic</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Usually in agreement but always in a mockery context</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The skeptic</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Rarely in agreement, mostly questioning the authenticity of your posts</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The loyal</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Avid and loyal follower who genuinely enjoys anything you post about</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The single-worder</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Leaves marvels like "cool", "whatever" or "BS" one word comments</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b></b></span></span></p><b><p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The douchebag</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Someone who makes sure he/she doesn’t leave a comment without making sure it offends everyone with the use of vile language</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b></b></span></span></p><b><p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">tHe aNNoYinG: </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Som1 wHO roLLz da KeYboRD LiKE dAt, daaawg</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The onetime-uber-excited</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Someone who’s would love your post so much, to the point he/she would dedicate an entire post on it in on their blog ... and never hear back from them again, ever.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The leecher</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Is only there for the traffic. Usually leaves links and URLs.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The obscure</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Someone who leaves an irrelevant comment that makes no sense what so ever</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The hopeless</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Someone who sees no use in any of your posts nor any hope in making any change</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The copy/paste junkie:<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">Obssesive right-click user, copy/pastes a 5 pages long story in your comments section just to make a point</span></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The confrontationalist:</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />Someone who somehow turns every idea you have into an “us” vs. “them” debate</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The pessimist</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Only see’s the downside to any thought or idea you are sharing.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The insecure agro</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Sees every post you make as a personal attack against him/her, and acts accordingly</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The freak</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">:<br />Leaves comments like “I will kill you, your family and your pet chiwawa too” <- I will leave the psychoanalysis part for this one to you..</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Anymore profiles? Do share...</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:11px;"><br /></span></span></p>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-20050654562930351642009-08-27T09:22:00.007+04:002009-08-27T13:49:09.786+04:00Places that I will definitely resume visiting, thanks to Dubai Metro<strong>Deira City Centre</strong><br />Its been almost 4 years since I last stepped into that mall. Heavy downtown traffic and drivers racing thru its parking lots, was always a turn off for me to spend anytime there. But with that out of the way, I'll be interested to go see all what used to be the No1 most visited mall in Dubai (and UAE, i think), went through over those long years.<br /><br /><strong>Burjuman</strong><br />With the introduction of its sort-of-prohibitive parking fee (Dhs 20/hr), plus unpredictable Bur Dubai traffic, the last time I was at this once favorite chill-out mall of choice was about 3 years ago. I will definitly start to revisit that place. Besides the memories we have there of the good 'ol days, its a change of scenery away from MoE, Festival City and Dubai Mall.<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Naif Street and Al Musallah Road</strong><br />I used to avoid this place like anything. Everytime i dirve there, I would never came out without a door ding or two, and of course, the psudo-nervous break down cause by Deira traffic.<br /><br />What is so special about that area? Well, for a telco geek, that place is a shoppers heaven. For example, a phone cover in any 'known mall' goes for Dhs 75 or 100. Over there, you can easily get it for 50 to 75% less that price, if you where a good haggler of course.<br /><br />Recently, I was looking for a 16 GB iPhone 3Gs, original factory unlocked. I got various quotes but nothing less than Dhs 4200/-. I got it from Naif for Dhs 3400/-<br /><br />Plus, the best car accessories shops can be found there. Women will have a blast with the traditional garments shops and the famous gold souk near by.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Karama</strong><br />Biggest problem for me there was the parking. All of Karama is a paid parking zone and because the place is a mix of commercial/residential, it gets really difficult to find a decent spot. Nonetheless, EVERYTHING you need can and will be found in Karama; branded (and fake) merchandise, clothes, household items, furniture, home maintenance gear ... and even Dubai memorabilia that doesn’t cost and arm and a leg to buy. I also remember a fresh veg and fish market.<br /><br />Also, Karama is packed with authentic straight-up-and-no-frills restaurants from all over the world. Chinese, Thai, Sri Lankan, Indian (Veg, Non veg,) Arab, Iraqi, Iranian ..etc. Great food, generous portions, low prices.<br /><br />Any other places you can think of?moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-59223017966114288762009-08-26T17:13:00.003+04:002009-08-26T17:21:34.767+04:00When will this stop?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5qRmyUqAQR0pECX9pBepoMivpuZ5zeI__ZUv1z9Og3TKrcIxyVUbiUe1qGMGwySqQ7JKsWH7P7a0ao38NwwmHyVu5vbREaVILpZt9bm9wGCJnPzjWoocXTHu13J9xy9PwqCY/s1600-h/26082009050.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374260870790739970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5qRmyUqAQR0pECX9pBepoMivpuZ5zeI__ZUv1z9Og3TKrcIxyVUbiUe1qGMGwySqQ7JKsWH7P7a0ao38NwwmHyVu5vbREaVILpZt9bm9wGCJnPzjWoocXTHu13J9xy9PwqCY/s400/26082009050.jpg" /></a><br />Oh, and he was a perfectly healthy individual....moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-26711397843098160112009-08-22T21:08:00.003+04:002009-08-22T21:33:27.311+04:00Who hijacked Ramadan?What happened to fawanees Ramadan (lanterns)? Where is the mesahharati and the light-crescent decorations all over the place?<br /><br />These past few years, the only noticeable public display of Ramadan in Dubai is by the 'Ramadan special promos’ billboard signs on Sh. Zayed Road. Isn't that just sad?<br /><br />Or are Ramadan decorations now considered to be بدعة من بدع الشيطان وبئس المصير<br /><br />Why is it that I get to experience the spirit of Dewali and Christmas much much more than Ramadan's? Hats off to our Indian and Christian brothers and sisters who won’t compromise their pride in their cultures nor religion, and will celebrate it no matter where they are.<br /><br />Whereas we dubai-dwellers are becoming lazier and more self indulged by the day. Sadly, the only official Ramadan celebration ceremonies these days are performed in a poorly ventilated overpriced makeshift tent, smoking shisha and gossiping.<br /><br />I am off to Taraweeh now... then I will go look for Ramadan fanoos and hang it on our home balcony. Any tips on where to get it from will be much appreciated..moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-53415853193122979952009-08-18T17:57:00.004+04:002009-08-18T18:25:27.182+04:00Ramadan Charity QuestionIf you had the chance to give, would you donate to a 'care package for Dubai's Labourers' or to a 'care package to families in Gaza'?moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-78395025474678363572009-08-17T09:04:00.003+04:002009-08-17T09:44:50.656+04:00Eyes on HealthcareI don’t know about you, but I lost count to the number of times I felt mistreated, misdiagnosed, or simply screwed over by hospitals, medical clinics and -specially- insurance companies. And the worst part was that nobody would know about my frustration but maybe the handful of people who read this blog.<br /><br />But hopefully, that won’t be the case anymore.<br /><br />There is a <a href="http://www.medulink.com/en/">new portal</a>, a medical one, that lists every hospital, private clinic, pharmacy and insurance company; not only in the UAE, but in the entire GCC area.<br /><br />The best thing about it is that for every listed entity, the portals added a user-generated star rating system and allows submiting comments and feedback. The portal offers a true Web 2.0 experience. It is easy to look at and to use, and requires neither registration nor verification.<br /><br />If you have something good to say about a doctor or a hospital, I encourage you to submit it there. But if you have a negative experience, I’d URGE you share it. So that those so called “medical professionals” can know that someone is now watching them and they can’t <a href="http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/09/06/27/10326421.html">get away with murder</a> anymore.<br /><br /><em>Thanks </em><a href="http://twitter.com/PamelaFrey"><em>@PamelaFrey</em></a><em> for the tip</em>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-90037515132621942532009-08-15T21:40:00.005+04:002009-08-16T12:16:56.118+04:00Cooking Gas Prices in the UAE<p>Read in Gulfnews the story on UAE residents refilling cooking gas in Oman: "<a href="http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/General/10340434.html">Residents take big risk to save a few dirhams</a>" .... Actually, they are saving a bit more than just “a few Dirhams”. Here is how much it costs in Other GCC countries: </p><p>Bahrain: BD 1.125 (Dhs 10)<br />Kuwait: KD 0.750 Fils (Dhs 9.5)<br />Oman: Om 2.5 (Dhs 24)<br />Qatar: QR 15 ( Dhs 15)<br />Saudi Arabia: <del>SR 20</del> SR 15 (Dhs 14.5) </p><p>Whereas in the UAE, cost of a medium size cylinder refill has been fluctuating between 80/- and 120/- Dirhams, but never below that range. </p><p>Now seriously GulfNews, can you blame them?</p>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-50839922754139615492009-08-11T07:46:00.005+04:002009-08-11T08:07:20.506+04:00Ramadan Promotions that are not so Special<strong>Me</strong>: Excuse me, but can I ask you a question?<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Union Coop</strong> <strong>Rep</strong>: Yes, how can I help you.<br /><br /><strong></strong><strong>Me</strong>: I was looking at the Basmati Rice promos you have here, and noticed this: Green Valley Basmati Rice 5KG + 2KG free for Dhs 48/-. But on the lower rack, the same Green Valley Basmati Rice 5KG for Dhs 37/-. Can you please explain?<br /><em></em><br /><em>[Rep takes long deep look at price tags. Removes old (lower) price tag from rack]<br /></em><strong>Coop</strong> <strong>Rep</strong>: <em><takes></em>This is old price for 5KG bag... before promotion.<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Me</strong>: <em>[Silence]<silence><br /></em><br /><em>This conversation took place yesterday, around noon time at the Union Coop Supermarket on Al Wasel Road, Umm Squaim.</em>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-47022606059757811002009-08-10T09:17:00.008+04:002009-08-10T23:17:39.175+04:00Gulf News, Community reports need checking too<p>I read <a href="http://www.gulfnews.com/yoursay/be_heard/10338758.html">this story</a> in the 'Letters to the Editor' section in Gulf News this morning. The headline was sizzling with words such "losing control" and "poses danger".. </p><p>The report suggests a driver was using a "malfunctioning spare tyre..." and that ".. it belonged to a small car" and labeled the driver as a menace to society.<br /><br />30 seconds on Google can reveal that this type of cars, GMC Acadia, is equipped with what is called a 'Compact Spare Tire'. It is very commonly supplied by many US and European car makers and is designed to be used temporarily for a limited number of miles...check here: <a href="http://www.gmc.com/acadia/acadia/specsExterior.jsp">http://www.gmc.com/acadia/acadia/specsExterior.jsp</a> </p><p>And since no one asked the prejudged/condemned driver, I can see that (by the supplied photo), the driver is sticking to the far right (slow lane), most likely at low speed, which usually aggravates our short tempered Dubai motorists. One can also assume he JUST had flat tyre and most probably is on his way to fix it to avoid over-running his compact spare tyre as well.<br /><br />Sadly, people here get off on negative criticism, jumping the gun and making false assumptions. I can't blame Mr. Anil Nair (the letter author) for his ignorance about cars. But the Gulf News staff who endorsed his intolerant letter, should know a bit better.</p>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-57274490491162954472009-08-08T12:54:00.002+04:002009-08-08T12:57:33.522+04:00... and we're backback from personal time off, away from everything, everyone and only surrounded by family and very close friends ... normal activity to be resumed soon.moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16576485.post-19186563995664651412009-07-15T09:55:00.005+04:002009-07-15T11:17:44.093+04:00Yes... I love Dubai, sue me<div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Lately, I received almost half a dozen emails accusing me of being too "pro-Dubai," "a brown-nose for the government", "too blind to see what is really happening here" and -my personal favorite- "I get paid by Dubai's gov to promote positive news about it.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I won't post any of those emails because they don't deserve that credit.. but allow me to clear it out for those nice chaps..</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If because I admire HH </span></span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Sh</span></span></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span><st1:state st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Mo</span></span></st1:state></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, you're gonna call me a brownnose, then knock yourself out. </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I am one of the biggest fans of HH Sheikh Mohammed and my only wish before I leave this earth is to have the opportunity to shake his hand. This man is doing so much for his people and country, few leaders have come close to his accomplishments. </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">No, I am not too blind to see what is happening in </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. As a matter of fact, I see more clearly than many of you because I refuse to be herded like cattle to blindly follow the drivel published about </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> in some of the world mainstream media.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">And yes, </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> government is paying me…… and you and you and everyone. Not in cash, but in something much more valuable: An experience.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Living and working in </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> gave me the chance to be. To do things and go to places I wouldn't even dream of. </span></span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> is one of the safest places I have ever been to. (And believe me, I’ve been around). I am usually happy to see </span></span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> police officers, in many other places I've lived in before Dubai, I was beaten, insulted and humiliated by police officers for literally doing nothing. I've left my car, house, office unlocked, many many times and nothing happened to them. If I have a claimed right, there is a law mechanism that I can count on. It may take time, but I know I will get my right.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I am not saying there is nothing wrong with this place. There is plenty of room for improvements. Everywhere needs improvements. Even the most advanced “1</span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">st</span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> world cities”. 'Improvement' is a journey, not a destination. No body or place will reach a point, stop and say: "that is it. we are fully improved". You just keep that engine running. And this is what </span></span><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dubai</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> is doing.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">So, bottom line to all ye Dubai-haters out there: Yes, I am pro-Dubai. A 1000 times more than you think. Now go @#$! yourselves. </span></span></span></p></div>moryartihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947593768240856478noreply@blogger.com18