Dubai Consumer Mirror

"For !*^# sake, Do something"

2010-07-13T09:38:00.007+04:00

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

I looked up and spotted a security guard standing at the upper end. He obviously did not notice all the action downstairs.

I yelled: "Hey security! Security!"

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.

It took 2 or 3 loud yells to grab his attention.

"STOP the escalator!", I said when he looked in my direction.

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.

"HEY SECURITY... ESCALATOR, STOP"

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.

I got back to my phone call.

While you were sleeping

2010-07-11T07:47:00.003+04:00

So, 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.

However, this piece got my attention.

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.

Yeah, sure... why not.

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.

Internet forums 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.

Around the first half of 2000's, the blog 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.

The second half of 2000 was all about Facebook. Enough said.

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..].

All of that was happening before Twitter. You just had to be part of the community and follow whats going on.

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]

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.

That was the novelty. Twitter was in the right place at the right time.

However, one must realize that Twitter is merely a distribution platform. People use it to spread the word. (some annoying ones use it as a chat site, but thats not the case here)

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.

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.

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.

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) Queen Rania btw!], and restaurants that do better sandwiches than they do tweeting about them.

Now RT that if you like...

CupCake Karma

2010-07-03T08:52:00.004+04:00

Last night, the Mrs & I decided to pick up some cupcakes for the kids from the mall.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While the cleaner's hands were moving involuntarily, his eyes were glued to magical cupcakes construction process like a 40yr old toddler.

My wife whispered to me: "Are you seeing that look?" Me: "yeah .. "

Wife: "Do you think he ever tried any of them?"

I whispered back: "At AED 18 a pop, probably not.."

Wife: "Lets give him one out of the four.."

I asked the baker if he can pack 1 cupcake in a separate box, 3 in another.

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, on the house, for you to try out our collection."

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.

7 Rules For a Flawless Food Ordering Experience in Dubai

2010-06-23T22:11:00.004+04:00

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.

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:

1. Don't be a smart ass

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.

Speak in simple English, talk clearly, not loudly, they are not deaf.

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.

2. Smile!

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.

3. Get personal

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.

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.

4. Take a chill pill

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.

It is also recommended not to call if you are bored, horny or

constipated..

5. Decide before you call

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.

And not having a menu is not a good excuse anymore, most proper restaurants have websites.

6. Ask for advice, even if you don't need it

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.

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.

This will make the phone order agent feel good about his/her job, hence you're order will get the attention it deserves.

7. The last Tip
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.

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.

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.

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.

There you have it, 7 different ways of simply 'being nice'.

I know you guys might know more .. leave them in your comments and help spread the love.

Top 10 Most Annoying Twitter Users in the UAE

2010-06-09T07:01:00.013+04:00

Yeah, 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.

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...

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.

And here are top 10 most annoying UAE Twitter types in the UAE:

The Overshare-er:

08:00 "yaaaawn... just woke up *stretch*"

08:05 "I just pooped"

08:10 "having breaki.. nomnomnom check it out: http://twitpic.D1sGusTing"

08:20 "what should I wear? choices choices..."

08:22 "Ok, I am wearing a blue top, beige bottoms"

08:24 "Completely changed my mind. Beige top, blue bottoms.. yaay"

08:41 "Can't find my keys, WTF"

08:42 "Found my keys, they were in my hand. lol, #FAIL"

08:50 "I love my Toyota Prius"

09:00 "Twaffic report; SZR is not blocked.. what happened?"

09:37 "Just got to work, no parking #HateMyJob"

09:39 "Have to park in paid zone .. #RTA #FAIL"

10:o0 "boss is here, he stinks, no deodorant. Oh wait, thats me. ROTFL. #FAIL"

So on and so forth... you get the picture, vividly

The Hypocrite-er

Disclaimer: these tweets below really took place: They were slightly altered to protect the true identity of the douche bags that tweeted them:

"OMG, on my way to work on SZR and this guy is like talking on the phone while driving. WTH"

(Yeah, because texting/tweeting while driving is less dangerous you dumb moron)

"I hate the fact that we have to work on Sundays in this country. #FAIL"

(I don't see you complaining about having Fridays off you double-faced-dweeb)

Jeeeez..

The Serial RT-er

People who ReTweet (RT) everything and anything they see. They sometimes RT without even reading what they RT. One word for you: *Unfollow*

The I.am.in.love.with.myself-er

These guys are a special species. Mainly girls with a severe case of a disease commonly known as LackOfSelfConfiditus. And here are the major symptoms:

- Birthday celebrations usually last for 4 to 6 weeks, 2 to 3 weeks before and after.

- Create Hashtags about themselves. I suggest #AttentionWhore.

- Seldom a day pass without posting a pick of herself with that "I am doable" pose

- Has a special folder called 'Twitter Display Photos' that is updated almost daily

- Tweets about her entire evening upcoming itinerary because..well you know..

- A deep believer that the day she falls sick must be declared as a national holiday

- 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.

The Promoter-er

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.

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".

Though I must admit, there are very few exceptions... Oh well, moving on

The Self.Proclaimed.Social.Media.Guru-er

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.

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.

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.

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" ...

Yes yes... I really need someone to teach me how to update my facebook page, jackass.

The Sir-ask-a-lot

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.

Sample tweets:

"Does anyone know has the number to Dubai Taxi? TIA"

"Someone knows the telephone of headhunters? TIA"

"Can someone Google the telephone number for DEWA and send it to me? TIA" <- I swear this tweet happened

I rest my case...

The Sir-I-beg-a-lot
Usually related and sometimes carries the title Sir-ask-a-lot as well. Now these guys will do anything to get free stuff and discounts from everyone, regardless to how absurd their requests are.

Sample tweets:
"Can someone bake me a cake and send it to me for free? in return, i'll tweet about eating it.."

"Can someone drop me everyday from Ajman to Jabal Ali? I'll follow you on twitter in return"

"I am looking for a someone to design a website for free. I'll include your name in the 'about section'"

What a leech.... grow some dignity for f#$%'s sake.

The multi-account-synchronize-er

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.

The moan-whine-whinge-er

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:

Traffic

Bank

Job

Boss

Etisalat <- Ok, that one is justified

Food

Weather

Taxi driver body oder

Husband/wife

Kids

Shopping

Boyfriend/girlfriend

Not having a boyfriend/girlfriend

DEWA

Airports

Annoying blogs that talk about annoying twitter types..

...

These folks have turned moaning, whining and whinging into a national ... ops, sorry, i mean, an EXPAT sport.

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?

Finally someone paid attention!

2010-05-26T11:22:00.003+04:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

I refuse to link or carry some of the racist slur they published on this blog, however, the attention seeking walked into a trap that was set, either intensionally or not, by our all time favorite Gulf News.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Oh well..

Happy 38th Union Day

2009-12-02T23:38:00.003+04:00

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.

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.

But it was no coincidence. There was a driving force behind it and it was all driven by Watani by a campaign called Mutahida (united in Arabic)

A campaign launched by Watani for one purpose: to bring together people living in the UAE.
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.

You can find more about the program thru their facebook page here

I think it is exactly what the country and people living here need these days. A sense of union that brings everyone together.

Happy 38th. UAE

Realestate Fraud

2009-10-26T06:17:00.004+04:00

Another example to how sad and disgusting the property market here has become...

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.

Everyone who is involved in this story is an accomplice:

Corporate Business Solutions (CBS) - I hope they find the owner and leave him/her to rot in jail

RERA - for lukewarm reaction and not taking a strong stand with the real victim here

Meraas - for choosing to blame and go after the victims, not the culprit

RE agents - for blackmailing tenants for their commission money back in return of waiving liability.

Here is my question: 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 ..

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.

[via Arabian Business]

Kindle Goes International ... but

2009-10-07T10:24:00.004+04:00

Labeled as Amazon's iPod, Oprah loves it and when I travel to the US, every other person I meet rubs a Kindle in my face ...

Today, the news is out … after a lingering wait, people outside the US 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?).

BUT … if you happen to be one of those who really really really really really want a Kindle and happen to live in the Middle East, 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.

Mind you, Kindle and Kindle content will be available in countries like Myanmar, Ghana and Namibia, where illiteracy rates are much higher than places like the UAE, Kuwait, Egypt and Lebanon. However, avid readers of Arabia will have to wait longer.

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)..

I am pissed and I need to point a finger at somebody to blame..

Not Your Typical Robin Hood

2009-10-04T21:29:00.006+04:00

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.

But not this guy...

Clearly, he is keeping the cart all to himself ...

7 things I like to see (New) UAE bloggers do more

2009-09-27T09:08:00.008+04:00

I 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.

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.

1. Stop whining

Almost every new blog i visited this year is PACKED with complaints, rants and raves.

I was no exception, to be honest. When i started this blog in 2005, 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.

Thankfully now, i don't do that anymore ... not as much at least :)

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.

Not only that, it brings in more comments - aren't we all there for the comments?

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.

2. Acknowledge comments

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.

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.

3. Get to know your first timers

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.

4. Be respectful, not repulsive

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.

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.

5. Visit back

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.

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 ;) )

6. Stick to something

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.

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.

7. Use technology to become a better blogger

Though comment moderation may discourage people from engaging with you, but it protects fending off spam, lamers and abusive language hurlers. Also, use RSS feeds to effortlessly keep track of your favorite blogs. Email and/or SMS notifications, can help you to stay up to date on who is doing what and visitor stat trackers to know what/who is biting and what/who isn't.

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.

Back to Abnormal

2009-09-17T09:26:00.003+04:00

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.

Before you go back to ordering the good old ‘triple supersized McWhopper’ with extra cheese, take a look at this report by the Consumerist.

Salad anyone?

090909

2009-09-09T14:14:00.003+04:00

History is in the making today for Dubai, UAE and the Middle East.

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.

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.

This is Dubai making the headlines and making all eyes on it.

Respect goes to the 30k fine men in blue who worked (and still working) day and night to meet their deadlines.

Must also not forget the hard work of Dubai’s twitter community who worked relentlessly to move #Dubaimetro up to become number one.

Here is to Dubai.

IT company scams consumers

2009-09-05T09:16:00.005+04:00

Kinda same thing that happened to me with Emitac. Only difference is that in the US, these people get caught and (hopfully) will scam people no more. Whereas here, they win awards.

Pundit Profiles

2009-09-01T07:21:00.009+04:00

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.

Enjoy:

The casual supporter:
Someone who only comments when feels like it. Pretty pleasant in most cases.

The objector:
A person who'd only comment when finds something objectionable in your post. Usually sane and has good reasons to object against.

The sarcastic:
Usually in agreement but always in a mockery context

The skeptic:
Rarely in agreement, mostly questioning the authenticity of your posts

The loyal:
Avid and loyal follower who genuinely enjoys anything you post about

The single-worder:
Leaves marvels like "cool", "whatever" or "BS" one word comments

The douchebag:
Someone who makes sure he/she doesn’t leave a comment without making sure it offends everyone with the use of vile language

tHe aNNoYinG: Som1 wHO roLLz da KeYboRD LiKE dAt, daaawg

The onetime-uber-excited:
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.

The leecher:
Is only there for the traffic. Usually leaves links and URLs.

The obscure:
Someone who leaves an irrelevant comment that makes no sense what so ever

The hopeless:
Someone who sees no use in any of your posts nor any hope in making any change

The copy/paste junkie:
Obssesive right-click user, copy/pastes a 5 pages long story in your comments section just to make a point

The confrontationalist:
Someone who somehow turns every idea you have into an “us” vs. “them” debate

The pessimist:
Only see’s the downside to any thought or idea you are sharing.

The insecure agro:
Sees every post you make as a personal attack against him/her, and acts accordingly

The freak:
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..

Anymore profiles? Do share...

Places that I will definitely resume visiting, thanks to Dubai Metro

2009-08-27T09:22:00.007+04:00

Deira City Centre
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.

Burjuman
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.

Naif Street and Al Musallah Road
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.

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.

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/-

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.

Karama
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.

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.

Any other places you can think of?

When will this stop?

2009-08-26T17:13:00.003+04:00

Oh, and he was a perfectly healthy individual....

Who hijacked Ramadan?

2009-08-22T21:08:00.003+04:00

What happened to fawanees Ramadan (lanterns)? Where is the mesahharati and the light-crescent decorations all over the place?

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?

Or are Ramadan decorations now considered to be بدعة من بدع الشيطان وبئس المصير

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.

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.

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..

Ramadan Charity Question

2009-08-18T17:57:00.004+04:00

If 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'?

Eyes on Healthcare

2009-08-17T09:04:00.003+04:00

I 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.

But hopefully, that won’t be the case anymore.

There is a new portal, a medical one, that lists every hospital, private clinic, pharmacy and insurance company; not only in the UAE, but in the entire GCC area.

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.

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 get away with murder anymore.

Thanks @PamelaFrey for the tip

Cooking Gas Prices in the UAE

2009-08-15T21:40:00.005+04:00

Read in Gulfnews the story on UAE residents refilling cooking gas in Oman: "Residents take big risk to save a few dirhams" .... Actually, they are saving a bit more than just “a few Dirhams”. Here is how much it costs in Other GCC countries:

Bahrain: BD 1.125 (Dhs 10)
Kuwait: KD 0.750 Fils (Dhs 9.5)
Oman: Om 2.5 (Dhs 24)
Qatar: QR 15 ( Dhs 15)
Saudi Arabia: ~~SR 20~~ SR 15 (Dhs 14.5)

Whereas in the UAE, cost of a medium size cylinder refill has been fluctuating between 80/- and 120/- Dirhams, but never below that range.

Now seriously GulfNews, can you blame them?

Ramadan Promotions that are not so Special

2009-08-11T07:46:00.005+04:00

Me: Excuse me, but can I ask you a question?

Union Coop Rep: Yes, how can I help you.

Me: 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?

[Rep takes long deep look at price tags. Removes old (lower) price tag from rack]
Coop Rep: This is old price for 5KG bag... before promotion.

Me: [Silence]

This conversation took place yesterday, around noon time at the Union Coop Supermarket on Al Wasel Road, Umm Squaim.

Gulf News, Community reports need checking too

2009-08-10T09:17:00.008+04:00

I read this story in the 'Letters to the Editor' section in Gulf News this morning. The headline was sizzling with words such "losing control" and "poses danger"..

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.

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: http://www.gmc.com/acadia/acadia/specsExterior.jsp

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.

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.

... and we're back

2009-08-08T12:54:00.002+04:00

back from personal time off, away from everything, everyone and only surrounded by family and very close friends ... normal activity to be resumed soon.

Yes... I love Dubai, sue me

2009-07-15T09:55:00.005+04:00

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.

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..

If because I admire HH Sh Mo, you're gonna call me a brownnose, then knock yourself out.

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.

No, I am not too blind to see what is happening in Dubai. 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 Dubai in some of the world mainstream media.

And yes, Dubai government is paying me…… and you and you and everyone. Not in cash, but in something much more valuable: An experience.

Living and working in Dubai gave me the chance to be. To do things and go to places I wouldn't even dream of. Dubai is one of the safest places I have ever been to. (And believe me, I’ve been around). I am usually happy to see Dubai 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.

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^st 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 Dubai is doing.

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.

Wishing HH Sh Mohammed a very happy birthday

2009-07-15T08:18:00.003+04:00

Sour Reactions

2009-07-14T17:51:00.002+04:00

Today, I read in the papers that a Chef in Abu Dhabi's Emirates Palace hotel has been fined AED 92,000 ($27,000) for storing a bucket of yoghurt 1 day too long.

First, the Abu Dhabi guys need to loosen up a bit and maybe learn a bit more about the meaning of "Expiry Dates". Maybe this video can help.

Oh, one more thing... i just had yogurt that is about 1 week past the printed date of expiry.. and I enjoyed every spoon full of it.

The Economist gets on the 'Dubai bashing' bandwagon

2009-07-12T08:53:00.004+04:00

Throughout this blog, you can find loads of Dubai criticism posts. I try to highlight things I believe should be corrected, and I do it because I live here and don’t want to deal with such crap. Whether anyone sees or reacts to my critiques, that’s a different story. At the end of the day, I am just another “blogger” that no one cares about what I do or say.

But when The Economist says something, everyone shuts up, holds breaths and for what could be ground breaking news or dark hidden secrets its investigative reporters will unearth.

I received via Twitter today a story The Economist did on Dubai. I stopped everything I was doing and immediately sank in the gradually flaming words as they built up to what I was hopping to be, the greatest plot unveiling since the Season 4 Finale of Lost.

One paragraph after another, everything so far was an amalgamation of old news that is already public knowledge. I gasped a when the name “Nasser al-Shaikh” popped and I thought.. finally!!, maybe the Economist was tipped to the controversial departure of this gentleman...

....Some think he was blocked from looking too closely into the accounts at Nakheel, among other firms....

"Some think"? What is this? Perez Hilton's blog? .. Oh well, moving on.

Again, another old story after another and a desperate attempt to put the article in a perspective, the editor is trying shape and shove down readers’ throats. I couldn’t find anything that could be officially defined as News.

The way I see it, The Economist failed to do nothing but fish for a piece of the action in the 'lets bash Dubai' game.

Two thumbs down.

2010 BMW 5 Series

2009-07-12T03:38:00.005+04:00

Spy shots of the disguised, but all new 2010 BMW 5 Series. If you can look beyond all that hypnosis-inducing stickers with a bit of squinting, you may see how the car will actually look like.

Brought to you via Autoblog.

Dubai and UAE bloggers, then and now

2009-07-11T07:52:00.006+04:00

Okay, so I got to do the honorable thing. Mr. McNabb and @Catboy@Breakfast of Dubai 92 FM were gracious enough to include this joint to Dubai's most wanted. Thank you for that.

I'd like to include a few as well. Based on page ranking, popularity and sheer awesomeness...

http://blog.jarofjuice.com/ <- 100% Fun guaranteed.
http://aethoughts.blogspot.com/ <- One of the most eloquent Emaratis I know.
http://blog.grapeshisha.com/ <- Insights into the UAE like no one else.
http://abhamalpani.com/ <- A Young jet-setting experienced blogger and an old friend.
http://blog.ntblb.net/ <- I recently discovered Naseem's blog. Worth the follow for sure.

There used to be some REALY great blogs and bloggers, but that was before Mr. McNabb discovered the world of blogging (in random order) :

CG - doesn't blog as much, but its great whenever she does
Inmotion: She left Dubai for good. Pours her heart out on her blog every while - doesn’t' blog much
Kaya - Hilarious AUH mom of 2, running a private blog now
Secret Dubai Diary: The MOAB (The Mother of All Bloggers), one of the first in the UAE - Blocked by TRA
Bin Krishan: The FOAB. Outspoken Emarati blogger runs the controversial Land of Sand blog - Blocked by TRA
Sex-and-Dubai: Delicious half Arab half Brit blogging flat mates - Blocked by TRA
Secret Arabian Adventures: Three local guys, very funny but they retired as well – inactive
Buj – Emarati engineer – inactive, wish he'd go back miss his mini Piano sessions – inactive
Marwan: Discovered his true calling and is working in media - inactive
The Dasmals: Of the most heart moving blog about a husband's love to his wife struggle with Cancer - inactive
UPDATED - And how could I forget one of the UAE's best travel/photo blogs: M&J Adventures - Moved out of UAE spending time between Germany and the land down under :)
So, there you have it .. our own Dubai's and UAE's most wanted..

Dubai's most hated brands

2009-07-10T06:33:00.005+04:00

Yougov Siraj is the ~~Indian~~ UAE version of Yougov, a global polling company that pays people $1 for every poll they participate in. These fine chaps ~~decided~~ found out that people here digg Nokia the most, as a brand that is.

And the top 3 are: 1. Nokia, 2. Google and 3. Sony. Riiiiight. Why can't anyone say what is Dubai's worst? I mean, if Yougov's really got it, it should have the balls to reveals Dubai's 3 worst and most hated brands. Right, we didn't think so either.

Lets agree on one thing. A hated brand is one that's whenever causally mentioned, you are hit with queasy gagging feeling and an urge to regurgitate your last meal. Its also one that you simply rather caught getting intimate with a goat than telling people that you work for that brand/company.

So, since no one has the kojones to say it outloud, here it is: Dubai's most hated 3 brands:

No. 3: Etisalat.
For helping the UAE achieve global accolades such as (1) offering one of the worlds most expensive iPhone plans, and falsely blaming the regulator for it (2) making the UAE one of the most highly Internet-sensored countries (3) Keepign the UAE telecom sector as one of the world's least competitive by deliberately delaying systems that allows competition in the UAE.

I've contemplated including du for its nightmarish coverage and the never-ending dropped calls, but lets face it; du’s competition with Etisalat is like locking up a confused Chiwawa with a constipated Pitbull: Pointless that ends with shit splattered all over the place.

No.2: RERA
I am sure the guys at The Real Estate Regulation Authority (RERA) are genuinely nice people. Unfortunately, they haven’t succeeded in doing anything to ease one of the most painful things about living in Dubai: Cost of accomodation.

When rents were uncontrollably going thru roofs and landlords were butt-raping every tenant they see, RERA decided to launch a Rent Index that, more or less, gave landlords more thrust for their tenant deviant conquests (just read the comments there!)

Not only that, but RERA has drastically failed to keep up with this index, which till today, no one seems to find it a true indicator of how rents should be.

....And Number 1 goes to….

RTA
Think of everything you loathed about living here: congested traffic, endless road works, random fines, parking lot suffering, renegade bus drivers, unreliable taxi service and … wait a minute… SALIK; and now, give it all to one organization to handle: That’s Road and Transport Authority for you.

I have mixed feelings toward the RTA. For fairness, they’ve been trying, not too hard though, to perhaps get on Dubai’s better side by saying stuff that sound like ‘Calm down people! A Dubai Metro ride will cost less than we actually wanted to’. Still the negative sentiment (abdominal restlessness, blurry vision ... etc) that comes along the 3 letter logo; it has rightfully earned that organization the rank of Dubai’s most hated brand.

Who else do you think should be there?

2010 Toyota Prado Makes its way to the Middle East

2009-07-08T22:00:00.004+04:00

Toyota Prado lovers can rejoice as the new, 2010 cut of the ever popular Japanese SUV is, according to Autoblog, has made its way to Middle East markets.

Enjoy the Spyshots here.

Confessions of a Dubai Shopaholic

2009-07-07T13:06:00.008+04:00

Guess what, this is not about a hot chic trotting around in her Jimmy Choo’s trying to shake off a nasty spending spree habbit she started since becoming legally liable... Its about surviving what is officially now the world's 20th most expensive city.

Cost of rent, utilities and healthcare can be so expensive to the point, in some countries; you’d have the legal right to sue companies charging such extortionist prices. But lets not get into that (not for now at least) and tackle things are that more close to home. Things like buying groceries.

We’ll reveal to you a few tips that can help you cut down the cost of your shopping list without having to feel like you are stuck on an island and have to hide your Dharma Initiative stash from that fat dude on LOST.

So, the first tip for saving when shopping in Dubai is:

Do not shop in Dubai
If you have the stamina of a Roman bull and feel that you can withstand the torturous traffic ride from and to Dubai, do your shopping anywhere but in Dubai. Do it in Sharjah or even (gaasp) Ajman. I’ve been to places in Sharjah like Ansar mall or Fan Fair (next to the Fruits and Vegetable Market) in Sharjah and walked out with killer bargains.

Hit the fridge before you hit the supermarket
If you ever wondered why the heck did a box of Duck liver paste balls in licorice and anchovies sauce .... on a stick, found its way into your shopping bag, its most likely because it looked so yummy when you were shopping while starving. Or simply because you have disgusting taste, but that’s a nother story...

Bottom line, hungry is the last thing you wannna be while shopping for groceries. Grab a bite to eat before you indulge on your sinful grocery needs.

Make a god-damn list
Though there is a significant risk of ending up looking like the hairy version of Brie Van de Kamp from Desperate Housewives, but it sure beats your look when you reach home and discover that you already HAVE half of the things you bought - and the other half is basically shit you don’t need.

Shop alone
Shrinks and other renowned consumer behavior-know-it-all's think that you tend to grab more stuff off the shelf when both hands are free. So basically, shopping alone and pushing a shopping trolley or carrying a basket, you’ll have one less hand to grope that luscious, plump, round sweet melon at the fruit stand ....

Carry a basket, don't push a trolley
While on the topic of baskets, don’t you really really really hate it when you walk into the store for a carton of milk and some toilet paper, and you end up walking out with a shopping cart full of groceries? Well guess what: if you ate your broccoli instead of playing with it when you were 5, and went to the gym to actually workout instead of starring at the hot blonds’ ass at the treadmill…. then you would have carried a basket to work out those biceps. Not only that; a basket will be filled after a cart of milk and 2 rolls of toilet paper. Then the basket will scream and yell at you to head to the counter.

Trolleys, on the other hands are possessed with evil deominc spirits that keep asking you for more and more. Avoid them like the plague

Bigger is not always better
There is certain foodstuff that you are better off when buying in larger quantities. Sugar, flour, Oil – granted, you will save more for sure if you buy in large sums; AND, best thing is that you will always end up consuming them over a prolonged perioud of time - since God created them so durable, they can withstand a nuclear holocaust. But items like veggies, cold cuts, fresh cheese are always better bought them in quantities designated for humen, not for a clan of Jabba the hutt.

Special offers are specially made to screw you
Questions: Vendors bundle a special promo because:
a. Product will expire soon and they want to replenish shelves with the new batch soon
b. Product quality sucks and no one seems to buy, so they target douche bags who are only after the deal
c. Product is too expensive, so they create the illusion of “a value deal” by slapping a ‘special price’ sticker, and target the same douche bags as above
d. All the above

Guess what is the answer...

So hold on to your wallets and brace yourselves. Economies are still tanking, companies are laying off more people and more exciting times to come...

Parking Charges in Dubai Malls..

2009-06-28T14:19:00.004+04:00

There are a few reasons why I believe we will see more malls start charging a fee for parking in 2009.

Posted on January 1st, 2009 posted here on Dubai Consumer Mirror.

Dubai malls may soon introduce parking fees to limit the number of Dubai Metro users leaving their cars in their car parks.

Posted Today on Arabian Business

Metro or not, I think it will only be a matter of time until all malls in Dubai to start a charge for parking.

The Art of Complaining

2009-06-22T07:06:00.004+04:00

“I’d like to speak your manager!” is typically the first thing that comes out of one’s mouth when feeling wrongly done by a bank, shop, restaurant.... etc

As paying customers, we tend to walk around with the notion that – no matter what the situation is – we are 100% correct, just because we are paying customers.

Though, that could be true, if you look at it from an extremely narrow perspective. However, in our pursuit of good customer service, it pays much better when we, the paying customers, come closer to our service providers. Attempt to see things in their perspective and accept that fact that things tend to go sour from time to time.

Here a few tips of how you can get what you want (and even more) from any organization you are dealing, and before you go all gung-ho on everyone in the company:

First of all, be honest…
To yourself mainly; did it really bother you THAT much? For example: if you had to wait 5 extra minutes on hold when calling an organization… Doesn’t that beat having to drive all the way to the place, look for parking, take a number, wait for your turn, see an exec, explain the situation, get a “we will look into it and let you know… NEXT”.

Be Objective
Strip off the emotional, ego bruised side of things and stick to the facts. When complaining, make sure that your complaint comes from the fact that you are not receiving what you paid for and hence, is rightfully yours. Full stop.

Some people get under the impression that they earned the right to get ANYTHING, ANYWHERE in ANYFROM they wish.

Here is a trick. If you feel you’ve been shafted, take a deep breath, sleep on the problem for a couple of days and then decide to act, if you still feel like its worth it.

You’d be surprised how faster/better people respond to a calm, reasonable person on the other side of the line.

Be Positive
Demonstrate goodwill. For example, tell the company that you have always admired the product/service. Such positivity will most likely get the company to act faster/better so that they don’t loose you as a long-time loyal customer.

Be Understanding
Express in your letter/call that you actually understand that shit does happen sometimes (don’t use the precise wording, but you get the gist of it, I hope). Such recognition demonstrates modesty and humbleness – this can get people become more compassionate with your case and respond faster/better to your problem.

Be Selective
Seek the right people to talk to. Saying things like: “I’d like to speak to your supervisor,” “get me your manager,” or “take me to your leader” .. does not usually take your complaint far enough. It might get you to speak to a ‘team leader’ or whoever is ‘in charge’ during that shift.

I’ve managed to get Senior VPs, CEOs and Chairmen to call/email me back in response to complaints I’ve made about their originations, products or services. I got their names (and sometimes their emails) from my only highly trusted and reliable source: Mr Google.

Even when you don't get to speak to them, mentioning their names can get the customer service agent to be more alert to your complaint, hence respond faster/better.

Be Respectful
No body likes a cynical smart ass. So, resist the temptation to get on your snappy, sarcastic side and stick to straight factual language. And I believe it goes beyond saying that name-calling and personal attacks are the most guaranteed ways to get your complaint to a dead end.

Remember, its not about YOU or the PERSON you are dealing with. Its about a situation you both are trying to resolve.

Be Precise
Last, but not least, document –whenever is possible- everything. Every encounter you had during the complaining process. Save sent emails, fax confirmation slips, record telephone conversation if you can and note down names, time and dates of every person you spoke to.

That doesn’t only show that you’ve ‘done your part’, it also helps the company get to the bottom of your complaint, hence help you resolve your problem much effectively.

------

If you’ve done most of the above, I truly doubt that you won’t get a decent reaction to your complaint, to say the least. However, if you get zero response or one that is lukewarm, then my advice is to black list that comapny, look for alternative and move along. Life is too short to dwell over spilled milk.

Be extra nice to TGI Friday's staff at Mall of the Emirates

2009-06-17T10:25:00.003+04:00

Not because otherwise they'll serve you sneezers or anything - a friend emailed me why:

Last weekend, my mom invite me and the kids for a mother-daughter-grandchildren get-together. We met at Mall of the Emirates and went to TGI Friday's. We ordered, had a good meal, mom paid the bill and left.

The next day, mom called telling me that she is missing Dhs 500 from her wallet, and thinks she was short-changed the day before at TGIF. She told me that she left a Dhs 1000 note to pay the Dhs 320/- bill. All she has on her was Dhs 150 and some change (we left a tip). I asked her to double check before we contact (or accuse) anyone. Later that evening, she was sure she didn't lose or spend that Dhs 500 anywhere.

The following day, I phoned TGIF and got to the manager. I explained to her the situation. Of course, I didn't remember the server name, table number, nor had a copy of the bill (who takes the bill with them anyways?!).

The manager started asking what we ordered, the value of the bill, any distinctive feature our server was wearing (she had a funny Dalmatian print hat), and worked with me on the phone until she retrieved a copy of our invoice. She said it was logged that day that we paid Dhs/500 and got the correct change. However, she said will call back again in 30 minutes.

About less than an hour later, she called and said that she went through her records and it shows that on that evening, upon closing the books, the cash registrar noted an extra Dhs 500/- over the total day earnings - and left a note of it. It seems the 1000 note was mistken for 500. So, the next day I went there, thanked everyone there and got my Dhs 500 back.

With these tough economic times, mall visitor foot fall on the downside, less tourists and lesser tips, I say hats off to the honest, hard working staff at TGIF at Mall of the Emirates.

Al Habtoor takes ur car for service, crashes it, asks for your insurance to pay for it.

2009-06-15T12:53:00.004+04:00

My friend drives a 1 year old Mitsubishi Pajero. Few weeks ago, he called in to renew his car insurance policy. The next day, he received a revised policy with premium increased. My friend didn't have any accidents or claims, the car is brand new, so there was no legitimate reason to increase the premium. As a matter of fact, it should go down due to car value depreciation.

"Its because you have one claim, sir" the broker said. My friend's wife doesn't drive and a man would know if he had an accident, and claimed it, mind you or not! So he requested to see his file, the details of the claim, date, location, police report ..etc.

It turned out from the claim report that while his car was at Al Habtoor service for regular Oil Change service, the staff there rammed my friend's car into another, right there at the Mitsubishi service centre, then they called the police, filed a claim report, repaired the it, claimed the damages from insurance firm to themselves AND didn't even inform the owner of the car!

I've heard stories of bad service from car dealers and service centers. But this is a whole new level of incompetence. Can you believe this?!

Always seek a second opinion

2009-06-10T21:13:00.007+04:00

A couple of months back, my laptop screen split in 4 quarters, exactly like this guy's problem here. So, I googled the problem and read in a forum that it may be a faulty graphics card or screen. So, I dropped it at HP's service center, Emitac, in Garhoud.

After 10 days and a numerous phone calls to Emitac, they emailed me an estimate stating that my screen needs replacement, along with other internal components- and it will cost me about Dhs 1800/-.

The only problem here was, I bought the laptop for Dhs 2000 and -except the split screen- everything in it is working fine. It was just a display problem. So, I paid an "inspection fee" of Dhs 200/- and took it back without the repair.

It was a personal laptop (I use an IBM ThinkPad for work), and i didn't feel like paying all that money to fix a relatively new (13 months), lightly used laptop. I'll connect it to an external monitor and use it for downloads only - it has a 160 GB hard drive.

My brother visited me and told me that he knows an IT shop that could fix it.

So, showed it to them and to my surprise, the screen didn't need replacement and was working fine - the engineer took it out and tested it on another laptop and it worked just fine. The graphics card was fine as well, it is built-in with the motherboard.

The problem was in a connection between the two that needed replacing. So, they fixed it and the laptop is working like a charm now.

Oh, and it cost me Dhs 150/- ONLY, that is including home pick up and drop off service.

Can you fucking believe these Emitac rip-offs?

Lost Value

2009-05-23T19:31:00.004+04:00

In my head there is a little black book. In it, a list of things I won't do, people i avoid and brands or businesses that I never deal with. The reasons for this mental boycott may vary (character, service, quality, price, value…), result is one: stay away.

Today, Pars @ Mall of the Emirates was added to this list.

My wife and I felt like having Iranian food today. I told her that I know this place that has a branch in Mall of the Emirates. Pricey, for an Iranian restaurant, but food is great.

PARS is a relatively well established Iranian Restaurant in Dubai. It is positioned for the upper class Iranian food loves. Its almost double the price, but food is great. And though my all-time favorite is Kabab Ostadi Alkhaas, I used to frequent PARS (the one behind Bur Dubai Police Station) quite regularly.

So, back to our lunch today...

We ordered the mixed grill platter for 2. It was for about 120 Dirhams. It came with 4 skewers of kabab. The rice portion surprisingly little and was almost equal to the one they serve in a single platter for 1.

Mind you, the average price for a single platter in PARS ranges between Dhs 30 and Dhs 45 and they all come with TWO kabab skewers.

So, if we ordered 3 single platters instead, we would’ve ended up with more kabab, more rice, and may even cost us less then Dhs 120. Another strange thing i found was the price of a glass of youghurt drink (Laban Ayran). It is a common beverage that is basically made out of plain yoghurt and infused with bit of salt and garlic. Nothing fancy, yet at PARS, it was going away whooping Dhs 30 a pop.

Oh, and the food wasn't exceptional.

Many many restaurants in Dubai need to revisit their understanding of “value”. I admit that service and attention-to-detail has slightly got better across the board, due to crunching economic times I guess; but “value” around here is still missing in action, misguided and more businesses needs to bring it home.

Dominos Pizza in Dubai is Bad in Maths

2009-05-21T22:19:00.006+04:00

Me: Hi, can I order the "Meal for 4" item on your menu please?
Domino's: That will be 2 medium pizzas, 1 bread sticks, 1 salad and 1 bottle of pepsi.
Me: Great. Can I have Diet Pepsi please?
Domino's: But that will be in cans, we don't have a large Diet Pepsi bottle.
Me: thats fine.
Domino's: Sure, I can send you 3 cans.
Me: But its a meal for 4, isn't it?
Domino's: yes, but the price is different
Me: I appreciate that .. but I am ordering your Meal for 4, which should include a large bottle (1.5 ltr) , that you don't have. So, I am OK with the cans option. Why do you wanna give me 3 cans for a meal for 4?
Domino's: I'll see what i can do..

In 30 minutes from now, I'll find out what she can do ...

UPDATE: Yup, as expected, they only sent me 3 cans. It seems that at Domino's, a can of Soda has more value than the company's reputation, or what reguler customers think of it. Classic.

Educating the educators

2009-05-17T22:32:00.004+04:00

Overall performance of schools in Dubai:
• Nine out of every ten schools in Dubai provide an education of at least acceptable quality.
• Four out of every ten schools are good or outstanding.
• More than half the schools are currently providing an education that is not yet of the good quality expected of all schools in Dubai.
• Half of the good schools are public and half are private.
• There is considerable variation in the performance of different private schools: some are outstanding, but more than one in ten is unsatisfactory overall.
• Around 20,000 students in Dubai attend schools that provide an unsatisfactory quality of education overall.
• Three quarters of the unsatisfactory schools are private.
• There are no outstanding public schools.
• More Details here

I only have four words on this: Its about f#$%ing time!

Augmantin ES 600

2009-05-10T13:24:00.003+04:00

In our everyday lives, we deal with the good, the bad and the total idiot. I’ve developed fairly decent skills to handle the first two. It’s the third one that I still can’t handle well.

You see, my philosophy is that everyone has portion of ‘goodwill’. It is what makes an individual jump in, exercise knowledge and expertise for the purpose of doing good.

Unfortunately, many take that leap of faith after putting their brains aside. For some, this burst of goodwill can be so overwhelming; it impales any sense of real good judgment and sane decision making, resulting in the exact opposite: a total disaster.

This happened to me last night:

My daughter fell sick a few days ago and the doctor perscribed a medication that she couldn’t take in any from or matter. She hated the taste and threw up every time her mom or I try to give it to her. The following day, we asked the doctor for an alternative prescription, which I scribbled down on a yellow post-it note.

I tried a couple pharmacies in our area. First pharmacist said he hasn’t heard of such a medication before, and the other one tried to sell me something else instead.

“Augmantin ES 600 please, for children” I told the chemist at the third pharmacy I am trying now.

He handed me a box of tablets. “Try this,” he mumbled

“No please, can I have Augmantin…. ES 600? It’s for my daughter. Solution, not pills”

“No broblom sar, how old is he?”

“My daughter is 3”

“You see saaar, this Aawgmanten not coming 600. Only 126, 365 and 624. You give your daughter this one”

He placed another box, an bottle this time, on the counter. “You give him this, it is same” pointing at the bottle. It said Augmantin, but not ES 600.

“Are you sure? The doctor was specific with me on the phone. He said Augmantin ES 600, 7ml, twice a day.”

“Saar, I am telling. This Aawgmanten not coming ES 600.. Only this. You give your daughter, he will like.”

So there I was, at my third stop in a quest for this now mythical prescription. I am more open for alternative solutions, so to speak.

“Yeah, sure… you are the chemists after all, you should know better” I shrugged and reached out for my wallet.

I took a random glimpse at the shelves over pharmacist shoulder, and there it was, standing out in all its glory, RIGHT NEXT to the medicine bottle he is trying to sell me, in big bold fonts: Augmantin ES 600.

Do you know the rush you get when you realize that you are going to correct your teacher’s mistake in front of the entire classroom? Or when you point out an error your more senior co-worker has in his proposal or presentation? When you realize that you, for a brief moment in space & time, know more about something, than the subject matter expert standing in front of you?

Ooooh, I saw wanted to give it to him.

But I curbed it. My enthusiasm for intellectual vendetta was suppressed by the urge to grab the bottle and get the heck out of this place.

“Give me THAT one please,” I calmly pointed out to the medicine bottle behind him.

He picked it up, gave it a prolonged gaze, walked up to the cash register, scanned it, bagged it, all in total and slightly awkward silence.

Regaining Balance

2009-05-05T07:04:00.004+04:00

5 or 6 years ago. My life was 70% me-time and 30 for others. I used to read ... and MAN i used to read a lot. Almost a book every weekend. For that, i wrote for newspapers and magazines.

I blogged. And my blogs were on radio stations, newspapers and magazines at least once a month.

But i didn’t have much of a social life back then. I had a normal job that required focus on a single country and single city. It demanded lots of attention, true, but I carried much less responsibility - always had to revert to someone 'for approval'.

Now things have changed .. i think the spilt is 20-80 now .. where 20% is 'me time'.

My social life sky-rocketed, phone and SMS inbox gets packed with messages of BBQ gatherings, dinner parties and outings.

At work, i do less tactical work and more 'thinking and directing' - Everyone comes to me for advice and approvals - mind you from everywhere - Japan, via APAC and Europe all the way to the West pacific coast in the US.

I have 2 adorable children that I rather spend time with them than anything else.

In spite of all that, I feel under accomplished and internally unfulfilled... I sat down the other day to find out why; do a before-after comparison. I realised one thing. I don't read anymore. Its been 2 years and i haven't completed a single book.

Mind you, i have read 5 or 6 different books half way only, but never completed any.

I got these books out and i am planning to finishing them. One at a time, - not concurrently. Because that’s how one should focus on completing tasks. Once at a time. No matter how much of a great multi-tasker you are, focus on the present. Isolate everything and dedicate your energy on what you are doing now.

Lets see how will that work out…

Six Days in Dubai ...er, i mean Fallujah

2009-05-01T10:22:00.005+04:00

“ (the game) is a recreation of the actual events, the actual stories of marines that fought in Fallujah ..”
The president of Atomic Games, publisher of recently cancelled FPS game ‘Six Days in Fallujah'

Right … all actual ... with Dubai licensed trucks and everything

See video here

The HOFF is in town

2009-03-09T16:51:00.002+04:00

Don't be shocked if you see the HOFF standing in line behind you for his latte in Mercato Mall.. because he was in checking out Mall of the Emirates over the weekend.

Drama Queens

2009-03-09T11:10:00.003+04:00

There is a handful of friends on my facebook that one can safely describe, thgouth their status updates and news feeds, as a bit melodramatic. Frankly speaking, I do not mind the occasional oh-maaa-god-i-am-like-so-whatevaaa status updates. We all have our moments.

But this one particular person -whom we shall name Debby- takes 'drama' to a whole new multi-dimensional level. I took a snapshot of ~~some~~ all her status updates in the past few weeks.

Today
[Debby Downer] is sad that poor [son] is sooo under the weather :((
Mar 5
[Debby Downer] would LOVE to relax on the beach ALONE no kids allowed.
Feb 28
[Debby Downer] is missing her whole [city] experience :(.
Feb 27
[Debby Downer] needs to catch the momentum once again, after recovering from 104 fever, followed by throat infection and now dealing with a very painful pink eye !!!
Feb 22
[Debby Downer] is totally not looking forward to tomorrow :(.
Feb 21
[Debby Downer] is very sick in bed with an incredibly high fever of over 104.
Feb 18
[Debby Downer] is feeling a huge loss. (Ed note: Guess what was the "huge loss"? the better half is going away on business travel!)
Feb 2
[Debby Downer] is wondering how ?
Jan 23
[Debby Downer] is soooo disappointed with stupid dish network and having to watch a cut up episode via antena of greys, a really intense episode of greys, umph umph umph.
Jan 18
[Debby Downer] is beyond exhausted.
....
...
..
.

It is said, if you want happiness, surround yourself with happy people...

Syrian and Egyptian expats at the bottom of the food chain

2009-03-08T22:01:00.002+04:00

According to this, highest paid expats in the UAE are (in order):
Americans, Brits, SAfricans and Canadians

In the Arabic version of this story though, the report claims that the least paid are expatriates from: India, Pakistan, Syria, Egypt and Philippines

As an Arab, I am not surprised to see Syrians and Egyptians amongst the lowest paid in the UAE.

To start with Syrians, and with the exception of college educated and high skilled professions; like doctors and engineers, most younger Syrians flock to the GCC to score 5 years GCC residency. According to Syrian laws, a 5 year work residency in the GCC qualifies military drafts-to-be to be exempted from a the compulsory service in the Syrian Army. That, plus a $US 10,000/- government fee.

Sadly, most employers here know this and use it to force Syrian job seekers much lower wages than market standards. You'd be shocked to know how much some of these kids are willing to accept just to stamp a GCC visa and dodge the 2 year gig in the Syrian army.

As for Egyptians; I would say 2 main factors. 1) In the past few years, and with the help of a much talked about and an un-official restriction on bringing in more low-paid workers from the SubCon and Asia to the UAE. As a result, many construction companies shifted to the Egyptian market for cheap, low waged and relatively better skilled construction workers.

Many of them found their way here and are paid about $300 per month on average .

The other factor I would say is mainly functional. Egypt is known to host more talented and better trained in hospitality and food business skills. In Egypt, you have some of the best tourism/hospitality colleges. And the training they get in Egypt's tourist spots, make Egyptians even more attractive to hotels and restaurant operators here in the GCC.

However, and in case you didn’t know, restaurant workers (runners, waiters ..etc) and non-management hotel staff (front desk, waiters, housekeeping) are some of the most poorly paid jobs in the UAE. KFC, Pizza Hut ... etc). Don’t believe me, ask any Arab who works there.

Nontheless, maybe I should ask some of the Syrians and Egyptians I know/work with to take the survey in 2010; who knows, it might alter the scales a bit…

Parking Pricks

2009-03-04T09:33:00.006+04:00

I think I've said enough already about these poeple.

Its your turn now ...

Planned Price Cuts in the UAE

2009-03-03T10:10:00.003+04:00

The UAE government will push cutting 1/3 of your basic food shopping tag in March and hoping for 1/2 of it in April; according to a report by Arabian Business today.

Run by the Consumer Protection Department (CPD) until Mar. 31, the move comes just weeks after the Ministry of Economy said it was working to cut food prices by 50 percent by April this year.

Until now, and talking from the field, i have NOT seen anything but announcements and promises by the so called Consumer Protection Department.

Last week, I bought a baby formula (Progress Gold #4) from one pharmacy (Al Falah Modern Pharmacy) . I paid Dhs 62/-. I needed another one which I found at another pharmacy a couple of blocks down the road, but for Dhs 52/-.

Whatever CPD is doing or supposed to be doing, well.. they ain't doing enough of it...

The Blog Interviewer

2009-03-01T17:12:00.003+04:00

I was recently interviewed by the Blog Interviewer... Check it out here

Following the sun

2009-02-28T22:09:00.004+04:00

Today, and for the first time in almost a month, I found myself wanting to do less than usual. I have loads to worry about at work/family/home.... but I simply do not feel like worrying about it… for the coming few hours at least.

The few followers of this blog may know that my work focus has shifted a bit with responsibilities becoming 'global' for the past 5 months or so. Mind you, having the word global may look glamorous on my business card, but trust me when I tell you: it’s the same shit, different people... but more important people.

I know it wasn't gonna be easy to work on a international landscape. New cultures, diverse characters, getting caught in the cross-fire of political turf wars… you name it. The most difficult thing was -and kindda still is- the whole notion of following the sun.

My day starts early with requests, issues or projects from the far East. Japan, Aus/NZ, Korea China, and of course India. Around the early hours of the day, more comes from the Middle East and Russia-CIS. Europe and Africa start pumping it up around midday and evenings get intense when the Americans wake up at around 8 PM local time here.

Just to give you a mental image: This week, I had a conference call from 2 to 3 AM (which I didn’t have to attend, but I wanted to – it was with one of the big Kahuna’s) then another conference call at 7 AM (4hrs after that), that I had to attend because I was presenting.

The week before, I had a 2hr conference call at 6 on a Friday morning..

So, you can imagine how nutty things have been. But on the flip side, the experience I am getting is great; plus my working hours can’t be any more more flexible. I don’t report to the office anymore. I sometimes go there sometimes just to remind everyone that I still work there.

Frankly though, I do sometimes miss the 9-5 routine. The abitliy to know that there is limited personal time for me to plan my agenda around it; what to do and where to go and such.

But for now, I am happy to follow the sun...

I think it goes without saying that ...

2009-01-20T18:04:00.005+04:00

... I didn't feel right about blogging about anything that doesn't or wouldn't do serve or help Gaza. And now that things have calmed down a bit, i can safely get back to business as usual... sort of.

So, today. I was thrilled to see the story on freezing all 2008 rents in 2009. My new contract is due renewal and I still haven't signed the new, and increased I may add, tanancy contract for 2009.

"Perfect," I told my wife today. "I will take the newspaper, the new unsigned contract and yell POWER TO THE PEOPLE at the reception desk of our Greedy Landlord's office."

On my way there, i was thinking of how much i am going to enjoy sticking the news about His Highness Sh. Mohammed's decree in his face, street ball style. And maybe do a-4th-grade na na na naaaa naaaaaaaaa na victory dance while I am at it..

Me: "Hello sir, I got the new contract... I think you need to make some changes, no?"
(handed the contract with an old-fashion-homeboy wink)

Greedy Landlord takes a look: "umm.. looks fine. You got the cheuqes?"

Me (releasing a nervous giggle): "I guess you didn't read today's peper, Sh. Mohammed said that ..."

GLL: "Oh yeah .. that. We saw that ... do you actually believe this? Thats all newspaper talk"

Did this guy just diss Sh. Mo's decree? Not on my watch...

Me:"Excuse me, what are you saying? that you are not gonna comply with this?" (pointing at the article with the huge Sh. Mohammed photo with it)

GLL: "Oh no... we have full respect for his highness ... but every time a decision is made, people are confused, we don't know what to do ... and we want wait... bla bla bla. So, do you want to renew the contract or not?"

I muttered a few words about knowing people in higher places and somebody in The Rulers Court (which i don't, and i think GLL will totally use it as the 'office joke of the day' with the guys). I pulled out my cheque book, signed 2 cheques for a small fortune that could feed an entire Palestinian village for a whole year, walked out with both the newspaper with the decree inside, the increased contract for 2009..

Desperately needed food items for Gaza

2009-01-09T08:20:00.004+04:00

People, remember my last post on shopping for Gaza?

Here is another handy one from this facebook group

When Shopping for Gaza, please bare in mind that Israel will not allow the entry of:

- Red meat canned food of any type: mortadella, corned beef or beef hot dogs. Chicken or or any fish (tuna, sardines) is OK!

- Salt <- NO SALT is allowed

- Items made in Syria/Lebanon..

A few tips I learned as well:

- Get value packaged items and promotional offers, its quantity that counts at the moment.- Expiry date should be no less than 6 months

- Avoid foodstuff in glass jars and fragile packaging, they might break during transport.

- if you want to get sweets for the children, chocolate might melt during transport. Get candy or biscuits.

If you have a couple of extra dirhams on you to spend, hospitals are in dire need of crutches and wheel chairs. Perhaps a group of 5 people can collectively donate a single wheel-chair. Its relativly in expensive: About Dhs 350 a pop

Get those shopping carts rolling!

Gaza Care Package in Dubai project

2009-01-06T17:52:00.003+04:00

About 50 pharmacies across Dubai have a ready "Gaza Care package" list for you. For Dhs 250 or Dhs 500.

The package contains much needed medical supplies such as antiseptics, pain killers, electrolytes. And baby supplies such as baby milk, baby medication and hospital/clinical supplies such as Saline solution, Betadine, cotton wool, alcohol swabs, surgical gloves and so forth.

This is the link to the facebook group

Here is a list of the participating pharmacies and the contents of the package. Spread the word!

Shopping for Gaza

2009-01-03T12:08:00.006+04:00

Being in Dubai and feeling helpless about helping out our brothers and sisters in Gaza, I decided not just to give-away cash (usually easiest thing to do). I wanted to feel more invloved.

Thankfuly, Aramex has arranged a donations collection point at Mall of the Emriates (and other places all over the UAE) till Jan 11th. Helping out can never be any easier.

You can do it too.

Just copy paste the stuff I bought today. You can add/remove to it whatever you wish. I also made a scan of the recipts, click on the image to enlarge, print and use it as a shopping list. I got everything from Carrefour at MoE.

The List:

Panadol Baby & Infant 100ml
Betadine Antiseptic Solution 500ml
Calpol Child Cough/Cold Syrup
Nestle Guigoz Baby Milk (from 6 months)
Nestle Cerelac Milk & Wheat
SebaMed Baby cream - Daiper Rash
Panadol Tablets
Dr. Johnson Baby bottles Sterilizing solution
Bell's Antiseptic Cream 30ml
Bell's Epix Antiseptic Disinfectant 200ml
Bells Iodine Disinfectant 25ml
Cotton Balls
Band-Aid Plaster
Lion Heat Patch (Joints and muscle pain)
Bayer Aspirin
Green Cross Rubbing Alcohol
Vick's VapoRub or Mentholatum
Blankets (at carrefour for Dhs 22 only)
Baby Diapers..

Please add more to this list.... Help others shop for Gaza

Things in Dubai we'll see less of in 2009 (hopfuly)

2009-01-01T19:51:00.005+04:00

"It just doesn't feel the same," one friend pointed out as he said happy new year this morning.
"What is it exactly?" I replied.
"2009" he said abruptly. "I just do not have a very good vibe about this year."

Things are gonna get weird this year. There is no doubt about that. Middle East politics is more confused today than it ever was, Obama, the global economic climate, environment... etc - I do believe 2009 will be quite a transitional year.

But lets keep it close to home. I do except that Dubai will also have its fair share of change too.

Here are a few things I expect we will see less of in 2009.

Landlords from Hell
For the past 5 years, landlords have rightfully earned the rank of being Dubai's scum of the scum. They basically screwed 99% of dubai's population and -each other's reputation along the way- by demanding ridiculous terms such as doubling rent, single payment advance cheques, creating hidden "charges" such as fees for parking, facility, service (or the lack of it to be more precise), bending tenant protection laws and many other low-life type of behaviour.

With over 40,000 new residential units expected to hit the market in 2009, and thousands of other empty units already bought by speculators waiting to be flipped, not to mentioned the ones that will be foreclosed, the balance of power will be disrupted a bit more in favor of us tenants. Keep your fingers crossed.

Free Mall Parking
There are a few reasons why I believe we will see more malls start charging a fee for parking. For example. Mall developers will be facing challenges maintaining a proper return on investments from their facility. Observers today are speculating that many businesses won't be able to afford some of the crazy rent malls are charging today. As a result, retailers will chose to "optimize operations". Meaning, branches not making proper margins will be shut down, and focus efforts on better performing outlets.

Bottom-line is, mall owners/operators will do anything to keep their operations afloat. Taking up 1/2 of the parking space and turning it to a B-level shopping area and charging for the rest of the parking is -usually-the most reasonable move they can make.

Fancy Schmancy Real Estate Advertising
Driving around the streets of Dubai has never been the same for the past 4 to 5 years. I am not referring to deteriorating traffic or the ever-changing-crane-infested skyline. I am talking about ADS. Ads everywhere. On bridges, on cars, on rooftops and bus stops. In airports, Ads on plans, in planes and ads can be seen from planes. There are ads of buildings on buildings.

Newspapers and magazine had their share in the environment gangbang by stuffing what we hope to be a 30 to 36 pages of informative reading; into an almost 100 pages of which 90% of them are real-estate ads.

Until very recently, Gulf News had the following supplements: Properties, Properties 2, Freehold, Freehold 2, Classified (that includes property ads by the way), and Property weekly - an over 150 pages of property ads and listings.

Today, with real estate companies letting more people go everyday, shirking projects and real estate company bosses and ex-bosses playing catch-me-if-you-can with the authorities; advertising will be the the least of their worries. Its about friggin time, me thinks.

Bank Loan Promotions
Some of the most absurd things i used to come across everyday were Loan Promotions. You name it, they did it. Take a loan and we give you a plane ticket home. Take a loan, we throw in a mobile phone. Take a loan and enter a promotion to win a (insert crazy-ass giveaway that ranges from a ball pen to a Mercedes S-class). Take a lone to pay the rent, school bills, house bills, car bill, medical bills. One bank was giving away loans if you are a woman and wanted to bet a boob job. (Ok that was in Lebanon, but you could have done it here and label it under - medical procedure)

But with tighter pockets, more reluctant investors, cash flow will dry up and banks will be less inclined to give up its liquid mulla. As a matter of fact, they will convert its ads to "Give us your money and we will give you more rewards - in interest."

I don't know how that is gonna work with a city that seems more interested in Islamic finance (the non-riba based banking), but my guess a shaikh will come up with a fatwa to create a Shariaa friendly interest yielding savings account.

....

I don't know .. I still have a few more i can think of. But i think these above will be the most aparant changes. What do you think?

New Year Gigs

2008-12-31T07:33:00.004+04:00

About 2 to 3 weeks before New Year's Eve, Dubai's entertainment industry usualy flood the space with what it desperately tries to make you believe, is the 'gig of the year'. Nothing and no one is spared: TV, radio, newspapers, web, outdoor ... everywhere you look or turn, its a 'NYE special' in your face.

It seems with 2008's not-so-festive closing notes (brothers and sisters being massacred right next door, companies getting bankrupt...etc); many NYE offers didn't seem to have had enough time to simmer in the thinking department.

Luckily for us, we can be mildly amused with more of what could be comic relief, than your typically inane, intrusive and disruptive pieces of promotional communications.

Here is one sample for you:

Click to enlarge and enjoy this proverbial work of direct marketing. Maybe its another reason Sh. Mo decided to pull the plug on all shindigs in Dubai this year

Gaza Support activities in Dubai and UAE: FYI ..

2008-12-30T08:51:00.004+04:00

Few activities i got to know about and are taking place around Dubai and UAE to offer some kind of support to Gaza:
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Al-Rahma Commitee for Charitable Activities at Ras-Alkhaimah is accepting donations through Dubai Islamic Bank for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. The package of food for a single family is worth 300 aed and the Medical package is worth 500 aed. The bank Account num # 7144024 in Dubai Islamic BankFor more info, Al-Rahma Commitee in Ras Alkhaimah +971 7 235 2249.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
A Silent Sit-in at JBR

Event: Silence for Gaza:
QUIET LEADERS... WANNA C HOW U LOOK LIKE?

Date: Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: JBR huge parking opposite "zaatar w zeit" & "amwaj sector
Facebook link
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Do Let me know if you know or heard of more similer activities and i will post here.

LET THE WORLD SEE! Photos of ISRAELI Genocide against the Gazans

2008-12-28T07:37:00.007+04:00

(R) Images collated from multiple news sources

I don't do politics on this blog, but here is my brief analysis on whats happning in Gaza:

FUCK YOU ISRAEL

Malls in Dubai

2008-12-26T21:03:00.004+04:00

Malls are, without a doubt, the main shopping destinations in Dubai. Malls are covered and air conditioned. Most malls have proper food courts and because more and more of them are popping up everywhere, mall parking isn't becoming an issue anymore (except if you are located in Bur Dubai)

However, many malls claim they are the 'ultimate' shopping destination and promise a 'perfect' shopping experience. I think many still need a lot of work to do. Some more than others.

Here are a few things many malls might wanna consider:

Mercato: Basement Parking Pedestrian Crossing
The basement parking lot is a disaster waiting to happen. And i am not talking about the bottle-neck-narrow-single-entry/exit design here. I am not sure know who was in-charge of marcato's basement parking lot design and layout (or the one who signed it off), but i am 100% sure the dumb ass does not have any children. Its enough the stipulated lines can barely fit cars as they are, trying to get to your car with a shopping trolley or a baby stroller, on a busy day, can be an adrenalin-pumped adventure that can (and often does) end up with a fair amount of other car body-paint retouches.

Dubai Mall: Common seating areas/ rest benches
There are very very few places to rest your feet in Dubai Mall. Its funny when you think that someone decided to have a place thats 12 million sq ft wide, with hundreds of shops and countless number of attraction; you'd think someone would've thought a bit more about parents with children, elderly people or persons with special needs. Its doesn't require a rocket scientist.

Deira City Centre: Parking Wardens
Ok, I have a confession to make. Last time I was in Deira City Centre was 3 years ago and to be honest, I can't find a reason compelling enough for me to make the crossing to that part of town. Though i do remember most of my problems in that parking lot could've been easily resolved if there were people that can regulate traffic. From idiots driving in opposite direction, morons doubleparking/taking 2 parking spaces and jackasses with plain jackass driving attitude; on a bad day (Eid, public holiday...) finding a parking spot in Deira City Centre sometimes requires the strength, wits and stamina of a spartan gladitor.

So guys, what do you think?

Dubai: New Bank Lows

2008-12-23T07:43:00.005+04:00

Is when your employer has plans to fire you, and wake up the next day to find out that your soon-to-be-ex-employer has coughed up millions of dirhams for what basically is, a street sign.

Classy ...

Happy Everything

2008-12-22T19:37:00.002+04:00

Belated Eid Mubarak, Mery Christmas, Happy New Years (gregorean and hijri)...

On a related note, the story in Gulf News on how much money DDF truned over in 24hrs, made the hair on the back of my neck stands up.

Spend wisely boys and girls... and don't believe everything you read in the papers, we are yet to reach rock-bottom.

Enjoy the long break.

Arabian Park Hotel

2008-12-18T13:15:00.001+04:00

More workers in Dubai are losing their jobs. One 3 star Dubai hotel came up with month long offer: If you lost your job, bring in your termination letter and get a free mea per dayl. The hotel then promotes this offer through the press.

The hotel's "offer" created 2 extreme reactions in the public. One side saw it as a noble and generous gesture; the other questioned the integrity of the hotel's intentions and if the hotel's management is running a marketing campaign out of other people's misfortune.

Which side are you on?

Rahma

2008-12-14T22:01:00.000+04:00

I am not big on shameless promotional plugs on this blog, but I am starting to like AdNation. A couple of days back, i stumbled on a story there about the Rahma (that's mercy in Arabic) campaign on MBC and a few saudi prints.

For those who are not into free2air TV, Rahma is public service ad campaign aimed at bringing under the spotlight the plight of many mistreated low-wage expatriate workers and domestic help in Saudi. MBC is airing the TVCs on its channels for free. The campaign is following a "in-your-face" and "shock-and-awe" theme.

To me, this was what really shocked me:

"I’m sure there are abuses," Turki al-Sudairy, president of the Saudi government-appointed Human Rights Commission, said, quoted in the CSM. “But a neutral person would think that all Saudis are doing this... We want a fair judgment... [The Human Rights Watch] never thought that there are cases where the girls are hurting their employers.”

Oh wait, but there is more ..

“many Saudis say that they, too, are victims, citing instances of maids running away to look for higher paying jobs after their employers had paid several hundred dollars to bring them to the kingdom”.

[insert nauseated emoticon here]

Check out the whole story on AdNation ME here...

Retail Therapy

2008-12-12T14:31:00.001+04:00

Firend: Do you know much MoE wants charge me for that stand I want to rent? You know, the tiny ones you see in hallways - usually selling stuff you'd only get at the Everything-for-one-dirham stores?
Me: How much?
Friend: Dhs 720,000 ... per year.

Basically, my friend needs to secure Dhs 2000/-, everyday, just to cover RENT only! Many businesses in Dubai prefer to live in Denial to what is happening around them.

How long do you think they'll last?

Two friends

2008-12-09T03:46:00.001+04:00

She sat next to my tiny cubical at the office. She first walked in about 2.5 years ago. She was still new to the job. I gave her the low-down on the getting around the office, the annoying management systems and all that stuff HR usually promise to take care of when you are hired, but never do. We had lunch several times. We had loads of common friends. She was smart, a good laugh and pleasant. A really great person to have around in the kind of office I work at.

Few months later, I realised she hasn't come to the office for a while. I was told her father was sick. Very sick. Cancer sick. A while after that, he died and she took personal time off to deal with it.

After her father's passing, she did checkups and discovered that she didn't only share her father's looks, he also passed on some of his bad cells. She took leave of absence to deal with that too.

He, was my childhood best friend. We know each other since since 1st grade. We both were kindda nerdy at school. We shared the same fascination by Lego, aircraft model building, sci-fi movies and cartoons. We both spoke better English then the rest of the kids on the block. At school, we both got our lunches stolen, regularly. We both had dreams of being toy-designers that can fly jet fighters and have superpowers, all at the same time. We stayed best friends for 10 good years.

We lost touch in the 1990 gulf war. Our families drifted apart. I came back to Kuwait for my high school diploma, he stayed behind. Last summer, I accidentally passed by his old house back home. I stopped and asked around. I was told his family still owns the place, but no one has seen anybody living there. Though the last time i tried looking for an old friend didn't go very well, I really wanted to know what happened to/with him, his family.

I started googling his name. Every couple of months, I would try a different search. A different spelling of his extremely Arab name. Last month I got a hit. I found him. I even found a photo of him. He lost lots of hair. He still has that geeky smile though. It was him. He has published articles in several scientific journals. He lives in the US. Works as senior consultant. Teaches classes too. I got his email and sent him one last week. Its been 20 years since we last spoke.

Today, he called me.

Today, she died.

Old friends

2008-12-06T21:32:00.000+04:00

Facebook can connect old friends, but not old friendships...

To Saudi bloggers: Help Rawan Abu Shadi!

2008-11-26T22:55:00.002+04:00

Ok, seriously, this is one of the sickest things I've ever come across for quite some time. If you can read Arabic, check it out here.

If not, this is a snapshot of the story:

- Rawan Abu Shadi, 21, Saudi, was badly hurt after a slip-and-fall accident on the stairs at her home.
- The closest medical facility to her house was a private hospital.
- Immediate treatment was needed to save her life. Her mother, widow with 6 other children, was asked to pay SRL 4k for initiate tests and X-rays before they do anything to treat the young lady.
- The mother managed to gather the money to save her daughter’s life.
- Then the mother was asked to pay 10k for immediate surgical procedures. The mother managed to gather 9k only.
- The surgical doctor abandoned Rawan and left the OR without performing surgery - he claimed that he will not do so because - check this out - the patient got her period!!!!!
- Rawan stayed bone-shattered for 10 days before a good Samaritan decided to donate the extra SRL 1k and get the procedure done
- With 4 double fractures, 2 in the hip, 1 in the leg and one in her heel, the treatment bills mounted to about SRL 128K.
- Not being able to pay up immediately, the hospital decided to lockup Rawan.
- Hospital is currently holding off food, disconnected Rawan from the outside world, doesn't allow any access to visitors, clean clothes or any even cleaning services .
- Rawan has been like that for the past 40 days.
- Not only that, the hospital is now threatening to draft a report that the incident was a suicide attempt and file it to the police.

I don't know about you guys, but i am disgusted to the bone...

[via Arabianbusiness.com]

... and we are back

2008-11-25T14:47:00.001+04:00

Blogging PTO is over... news sharing time:

My wife and I were blessed with our second child and first baby boy. This is still taking all my time - but i am loving it. Thankfully, baby is doing great and his mother is back to her normal shopping habits. So, all is well.

At work, i kindda got to carry more responsiblities of a global "perspective". Some people think its a promotion, to me, well its the same cr@p, but with and for more people/places.

I've been traveling alot - though, i won't be travelling much for the coming few months with the company trying to cut down on expenses. Awesome!

We bought a new car...

I was in the US when Obama won the elections.. the streets were wild. I also did some shopping while I was there. But things weren't the same this time around. Walking into shops was a bit off. Once the sales staff detects a splinter of 'true buying intentions', they were all over me. Anyhow, i can't say i didn't enjoy the discounts.

I saw most of the The Atlantis fireworks from my balcony. Can't say i didn't enjoy it as well. Not too excited with some of the bad press it received globally. Lots of haters out there.

I am playing it safe with whatever moneyz we have left these days. You never know.

Anyhow, its good to be back to normal.

Inside The Atlantis

2008-10-03T18:31:00.001+04:00

Ok, I have to admit it. Atlantis is photography beginners' heaven. Nobs, like yours truly, can workout their shooting skills, composition, tryout different settings and lighting conditions. Also, the place is huge. You can spend a whole day wandering around and still won't cover the whole resort. With every corner packed with rich detail and color, that gives you great choice for close-ups, landscapes, portraits... etc.

The place is really nice btw... here are some shots.

These 4 were at the entrance in the lobby... notice the attention to detail

This is the main aquarium. And by the way, I took more closeups of the different marine life which i will post more later.

There are many restaurants in the place. We had dinner at the Levantine. As usual, i will review the place for you as well. ;)

There is a Mall at the ground level. The shops are all of high-street brands .. so, you won't be seeing me there too often.

This glass artcraft is located at the centre of the main lobby. It looks amazing.

To me, it looks like an exploding water fountain with different sea creatures that can be seen all over the colorful swirly waves... In the photo above, you can notice the yellow-ish baby octopus.

Hope i didn't bore you to death with all these pics... Again, your feedback always highly appreciated.

View from our room at the Atlantis .. at night

2008-10-02T18:46:00.003+04:00

Remember the gift my wife got me a couple of weeks back? I decided to give it a shot, sorta-speak- to see if I can get all that reading I've been doing on photography into practice...

Click on photos to enlarge..

I can see 'handshake' effect in almost all of them .. i am investing in one of those tiny tripods. To all you photography buffs out there, let me know what you think as well...

Eid at the Atlantis Palm Dubai

2008-10-01T21:47:00.000+04:00

Yesterday, we checked in the Atlantis Palm Dubai hotel around midday. I have made reservations to spend Eid there with the family. I booked the Regal Suite. And MAAN it is sweet indeed. Check it out.

The suite has 2 entrances. One is a service entrance and the the other one gets you straight into the living area through a spacious hallway - the 2 doors: 1 is a guest bathroom and the other is like a walkin closet and suitcase storage room. On the left, was the access for the kitchen.

Then you get into a dining area - you can see the roundtable for 6 in the centre and the office setup behind it.

The office was fully equiped with all sort of goodies..

The living/sitting area was spacious and welcoming - there was a bar to the right.

A bar with a fruit basket and delights was waiting for us..

The Bathroom was one of the nicest I've been into. The place had like 50 pieces of towels all over the place! Check out the jacuzzi in the centre. There was a sofa, a walk-in shower and his/hers sinks.

The bathroom also had a Walk in closet/room packed with everything you need. 2 hanging racks on bothsides, a beach bags, beach flipflops, ironboard, safe ..etc

Another 42" LCD screen was in the large bedroom

The bedroom was very spacious and had a sitting area with a really nice view.

The balcony had 2 of those chezlongs thingis :)

The view from the room was really nice .. it looked over the Palm and the swiming pool area. Check out the scenery.

It was a nice pool area.. the round section in the centre was for children.

I have taken lots of more photos, visit back for more images of the hotel soon..

Eid Mubarak

2008-09-29T22:12:00.000+04:00

Kel 3am we ento bkhair ... Eid Mubarak to you all ..

Breaking: Coming Soon to Sh. Zayed Road

2008-09-29T05:21:00.000+04:00

Another (3rd) Salik Toll gate ... Approximate location: Somewhere around the begining of the Marina Area as you come in from Abu Dhabi heading to Dubai.

Airbus 380 at Heathrow

2008-09-27T19:25:00.000+04:00

I was waiting for my flight at the Emirates Lounge at Heathrow's T3 when she decided to pass by...

Is it true that the Emriates one is grounded?

UAE ATM Fraud

2008-09-25T18:59:00.000+04:00

There is nothing worse than being stuck abroad without any money in your pocket – and this is what happened to me today in London.

I left my money behind in the hotel today and I am basically cashless and stuck in an offiste training all day.

My ATM card didn’t work and my HSBC bank guy told me that they have disabled International money withdrawals service on some networks because of the latest fraud scam that was all over the news.

Check out one of the ways those effing fraudsters swiped ATM users personal info.

Luckily, a colleague gave me 20 pounds to sort my self with..

Review: Diwan Al Khayal Ramadan Tent

2008-09-19T21:33:00.001+04:00

We joined a couple of friends for Sohour last night. We didn’t make any reservations anywhere and since it was a spur of the moment kindda thing, we didn’t have much options on a late Friday night in Ramadan.

A friend noted that Diwan Al Khayal Ramadan Tent at The Jumeirah Beach Hotel had a first-come-first-serve policy and doesn't do any table reservations. So, we had no where else to go, and nothing to lose.

The Venue
We got there. From the outside, the tent looked enormous. The place had a blue light effect that casted shadows off mounted arabesque lanterns. This gave the whole place a very cool East-meets-West aura around it.

At the entrance, a smiling waitress welcomed us with a silver trey of clean refreshing towels. The reception area was wide and oval. Sofas were scattered around the reception area for the gusts waiting for their tables.

We got our name on the list and were told that it might take an hour for them to find us a table. Again, we had no were to go. So we decided to stick around. The waiting area was very comfortable and spacious. Waves of cold glassed of fresh water kept coming in and we nibbled on premium quality dates through out the wait.

Almost 1 hr later, they found us a table and we were escorted in.

Our table was great. There was live relaxing music playing in the background. It was loud enough for use to enjoy it, while maintaining a civilized conversation over a game of cards.

The Food
The menu had a generous variety of Ramadan specialties. We ordered Arabic pastries (cheese, meat and spinach), Fattet Hoummos, Falafel, Shwarma and za3tar Saj platter. We ordered a wave of drinks that came very quickly, and shisha was there on the spot.

The food, to be honest, wasn’t that great; but I can’t say it was bad. The pastries and Fattet el hommous were warm-ish. The za3tar Saj platter was a bit dry and chewy and the Shawrma sandwiches had very vey little shawarma in them. Also, portions aren’t generous at all making value for money more toward the 'poor' zone.

But the service, on the other hand, was first class!

Typically, Ramadan tents are known to be underserviced and it would take you sometimes ages to spot a waiter, let alone attracting his attention. But not in Diwan Al Khayal.

Our waiter was always visible for us to see (and call when needed). There were runners (people who deliver orders) all over the place and senior maître d's were regularly spotted wandering around the place. Food was delivered on the spot and check came very quick. The waiters were friendly and attentive.

Can’t say the place is cheap though, but in comparison with the other Ramadan Tents out there, Diwan Al Khayal offers you a great deal. There is a minimum charge of Dhs 100 per head during the weekend and I think its Dhs 75 on weekdays. The charge covers everything (food, drinks and shisha).

Verdict
The place is definitely worth a return visit. But since they don’t take reservations, go there early or expect an hour wait. Avoid the pre-prepared snakes and stick to made-to-order dishes (grills and so forth).

Jumeirah Hospitality Group has a great reputation to keep and with Diwan Al Khayal Ramadan Tent, the group is taking no chances to compromise on that reputation with a tent that offers good food, chilled out ambiance and exceptional service.

New Middle East Marketing news site

2008-09-19T21:33:00.000+04:00

AdNation is a news site and ideas forum for the region’s advertising, branding, media and marketing industries. It’s a space where creative professionals in the Middle East can exchange ideas, whether it’s about innovations in brand design, creative use of media, and just mouthing off about the latest campaigns. Membership is limited to the most intelligent, articulate, opinionated and attractive people in the business. Allegedly.

Ad Nation ME seems promising (so far). Though its quite Web 2.0 friendly (video, RSS, Polls, clouds...etc), signing up for commenting, contribution and participation is only for the selected Advertising , marketing and PR socialista’s and NOT for the commoners like yours truly..

New Toy!

2008-09-18T15:25:00.000+04:00

Our wedding anniversary was a few days ago and i was traveling. I came back to find this fantastic gift from my lovely wife.

Now I need photography classes! Any suggestions?

How not to use PowerPoint

2008-09-16T21:17:00.001+04:00

Find more Digital art videos at 5min.com

So true..

FRINGE

2008-09-11T16:06:00.000+04:00

I just finished the $10,000,000/- pilot of JJ Abrams’ latest TV Drama FRINGE.

I am a big fan of anything by JJ Abrams (Lost, Alias, Cloverfield). And the show has Abrams’ touch all over it. Can't wait until the series is on air regularly.

Fringe is more or less X-files meets Twilight Zone meets Lost (big corporate conspiracy where everyone lies). It starts when an international flight lands at Boston's Logan Airport and there are no signs of life on board, FBI Special Agent Olivia Dunham, a scientist, Walter Bishop, and his son Peter uncover a deadly mystery involving a mysterious plague and a series of events.

Here is the pilot trailer

First Use: Special post-Iftar Delight

2008-09-09T18:04:00.002+04:00

Few days back, we had special guests over for Iftar. After a great meal, (prepared by yours truly); it was time for desert. For me, it was time to bring out the big guns :)

You see, on our last trip to London, we walked out of Harrod's Chocolate Bar with a tiny souvenir. It was our first use for it.

I will let the photos do all the talking ;)

As you can see in the last photo, the rotating tray of Fruit Kababs, Marshmallows, Orange Cake cubes, fresh strawberries and Bananas was annihilated :)

Iftar Review: Tamani Marina Hotel Ramadan tent

2008-09-05T09:57:00.003+04:00

I was invited for Iftar at Tamani Marina Hotel yesterday.

Never before, have I been to such poorly presented, orchestrated and extremely tormenting Iftar experience before in my life.

Honestly, I have been served lousy Iftar cuisines before. But they sucked at some things, sucked less at others. The people behind Tamani's Iftar tent proved, on a whole new level, that besides offering horrible food, there are actually more ways to ruin ones’ Iftar.

I don't know where to start from, so lets take it from the top.

The Venue
When we walked in to the specially erected Ramadan tent on the pool terrace, the tables were arranged in a very odd, wrap-around layout arrangement that made a single raw of tables parallel to a split buffet. In between, another line of lounge-looking armchairs were laid out. The large round tables were fully set up with glasses, china and silverware. Lounge tables had single small plates and a bowl of dates.

It seemed that the original plan was to have some kind of a pre-iftar "lounge" for fasting people, and once iftar commences, people would move to the big round tables behind them.

While that idea may sound mildly interesting -in theory- the actual outcome was far away from what it was meant to be. When Iftar started, people ended bring their plates to where they sat on the lounge cushions; slouching down on tiny, cramped, poorly serviced coffee tables.

Most of the proper round banquet tables, with all their full-course cutlery sets, were left behind deserted.

And to make sure that the makeshift iftar tent doesn’t end up as steam bath, stand-alone Air condition units were scattered all over the place. When we sat down, the entire elevated floor was massaging our feet with a buzzing vibration that could induce a pregnant woman to delivery. But we got used to it after 10 minutes.

The food
Ramadan Iftar buffets are unlike any other. Typically, there are specific dishes that are served with larger quantities than usual. Dishes such as soups, oriental salads, bite-sized pastry (fatayer, samosas, cheese puffs...etc) make prominent presence. Instead, there was a small bowl of soup the ran out after serving a dozen guests maybe. Refills were very slow. The Fattoush bowl, a Ramadan-must-have salad, was big enough to serve 5 or 6 people only. I didn't have any of those.

There was a line up of tiny sorbet glasses filled with pesto dipped cherry tomatoes and mozzarella sticks. Not your typical Iftar dish. Oh, there was a huge platter of salmon and vegetable Maki rolls(Sushi). Why in the world would any sane chef serve Sushi on an Iftar buffet?! :)

Moving on...

The main dishes section didn't look as confused as the salad one. I passed by a mixed variety of recopies from various parts of the planet. I saw Kabab Hindi (a Levantine pot cooked Kafta in tomato and onion stew), A universal BBQ mixed grill, Harees (emarati wheat and lamb squash), fish kabsa (Saudi/CGG saffron rice with chunks of fish fillets), European Potato Grattan, Moroccan lamb chops Tajin, Asian Stir fried beef (or chicken, not sure) and steamed veggies.

I scoped a bit of Kafta, a few pieces from the mixed grill trey with some plain white rice and Hommos. Safe choices, I thought to myself.

I thought wrong.

Everything I had was borderline fit for human consumption. The rice was bland and crunchy. The Kafta had a foul smell that virtually raped my taste buds. The Mix grill were OK, i guess and the hommos was grainy and synthetic, it felt as if it came out of a ready-mix tin can.

The person next to me was having Stuffed lamb, or Ooozi, (slowly cooked whole lamb with cinnamon rice and nuts). Hoping I can make up what i ate (or didn't), I found the lamb station and a server scooped 2 small servings of rice and a piece of meat. On my way back, i looked for this dish's typical sidekick, garlic flavored yogurt, but it was no where to be found.

The lamb was revolting. The meat the server slugged on my plate turned it to be mostly fat. The rice had the right color, but the wrong flavor. I have no idea how they did that.

My last resort was the desert section. There was a set of middle eastern sweets (a must have in Ramadan) and a decent variety of western ones. I had some Knafe, halawet el jeben and Hreeseh. The knafeh was really good to the point everyone at the table agreed that it was outsourced. i.e. supplied by the better known sweet shops in Dubai (Al Samadi or Al Baba). Everything else was left on the plates.

Final Verdict
If you have a leeching relative, a self-invintg-piggy-bagging-super-self-imposing friend that you want to make sure he doesn't invite himself to your gigs again OR a wife you wanna convince that Iftar @ Home is the best option, Tamani’s Iftar tent is a guaranteed hit with its appalling menu, horrible service and an overwhelmingly distributing iftar experience.

2008-09-05T08:00:00.005+04:00

A Saudi fellow blogger [AR] posted on a Dubai licensed car, found parked in a No Parking zoon in London (looks more like Berlin to me too, DJ).

The blogger is assuming in his post that the car above belongs to "an indifferent son of a GCC royalty".

I highly doubt that.

For starters, not all Dubai cars in London belong to Royalty. I have several friends who are surely NOT royalty and ship their cars to their summer destinations abroad.

Also, sons of GCC royalty won't roam around a boring salon like this one. Not without an escort (security/chuffers) at least. And if they do roam alone, they are more likely to be seen in cars like this, this, this or this.

To find out what happens to the White Bentley above here.

Reduax: Ramadan Kareem, lets keep it that way

2008-08-31T22:56:00.000+04:00

Wishing everyone Ramadan Kareem.

Just to set a few facts straight for y'all who are still new to this place in this time of year.

Fasting Ramadan is when Muslims don't eat or drink from dawn till dusk

Not just that: Its an examination of self discipline to cleanse one's mind, body and soul from anything that satisfies the urges (in general). It is to teach people that there are others out there who are not as fortunate as yourself, and who don't even have the privilege of basic needs such as food, water or shelter.

So in Ramadan, its not right to extravagantly indulge on food and drink. During fasting, one is to hold urges like smoking, lust, anger, lying, random impulses such as the urge to beat the living daylights out of someone because he is a moron-on-wheels, the urge to slap the driver of the car next to you because he is a seasoned nose-explorer, the urge to shove your foot up the next door neighbor’s rear-end for being not so neighborly, the urge to honk sporadically at the White Nissan Sunny that’s hogging the far left lane at 45 kmph... and stuff like that.

When you see/experience any of the things above, and you will, just move away and move on …

Going to a Ramadan Tent is a daily religious ritual that all Muslims should follow.

Wrong again; Sadly, many Muslims today go to more Ramadan Tents than they do to mosques. They spend more money on Shisha and snack food during this month, than they ever did in donations, Zakat or charity in their entire life time. That's just wrong.

Do yourself a favor, after you pay the check for a sohor night in one of those so called Ramadan Tents, ask yourself: How many families cab this money -that you just paid for 2 shishas and 1 tea-, feed through out Ramadan?

Fasting in Ramadan means Muslims do little or no work at all.

During Prophit Mohammed (PBUH) time, Muslims went to war in Ramadan. There is nothing more divine and self disciplining than to struggle through the daily hardship of going to work to make ends meet while sustaining self-control.

Those fasting laborers who spend over 12hrs a day working under the scorching sun, experience the true bliss of this holy month more than anyone else.

Don't use Ramadan as an excuse for not doing work, guess what, some argue that you actually break your fast this way.

Ramadan means staying all night watching Arabic TV soaps and other forms of entertainment.

It also means staying all night contemplating, meditating and asking God for forgiveness for all the crap you've been doing all year long. Ramadan is a great opportunity to get closer to God, go through what/who you did wrong, and reach out to old friends and family you haven't spoken to in ages and so forth..

Iftar HAS to be a scrumptious 12 course meal

LOADS of food is wasted during Ramadan. I agree, no one said not to enjoy having a good Iftar meal; just bare in mind that while you do, there are many people like you in Iraq, Palestinian refugee camps, some parts of Africa and many other places where an Iftar meal during Ramadan is no different than any other time of the year: 1 tiny serving a day, if ever available.

Non-fasting people shouldn’t eat in front of Muslims

Like myself, many Muslims don’t mind it when non-fasting people eat or drink around them. Nevertheless, and out of consideration and common courtesy if you do not fast, and end up being surrounded by fasting colleagues - you may wanna ask for permission if you can eat/drink/smoke/wear see-thru cloths/low cut tops/mini skirts/hip huggers with thongs sticking out and so forth.

Ramadan Kareem to all ..

Note: This post was published a few years back. I am republishing it as per several reader requests.

Enoc attendants dropped gas station service… and 'courtesy' along the way

2008-08-31T00:14:00.000+04:00

I was very thrilled to hear that self-service gas stations have made their way to the UAE.

I was not thrilled, however, when I heard about a not-very-gentleman-like attitude of one Eppco-Enoc gas stations supervisor in one of the new self service stations in Dubai.

My wife, very visibly 8-months pregnant woman, pulled into one of the new self service gas after a long busy day of running errands with our hyper-active toddler. Pregnancy was really having its tool on her that day, it was extremely hot and she didn’t want to leave our 3 year old girl alone in the car. She asked the attendant standing next to her car if he could help her fill the car.

“NO! Self service only,” the supervisor abruptly answered.

My message to that supervisor:
I hope you are proud of yourself. If you were half the man you claim you are, your dignity would have at least suggested to offer assistance to a pregnant women, not just standing there watching her.

A message to the lads at Eppco-Enoc:
You guys still have a lot to learn. Give Kuwait National Petroleum Company in Kuwait a ring. KNPC rolled self-service stations over 15 years ago. At every station, there are always a couple of people who are ready to assist women or anyone with a valid reason for assistance.

It’s not about following the rules, its about professional and common courtesy.

Bone-full KFC nuggets that can chock you to death

2008-08-28T10:22:00.003+04:00

A while back, my daughter discovered the concept of “chicken nuggets”. Trying to maintain a healthy balance, we make sure she doesn't have more than 3 to 4 pieces per week. Usually on our eating-out day on the weekend. Her favorite is the STAR shaped ones that Hardee's serve.

Last week, I picked my daughter up from the children's play area in Mall of the Emirates. The area is next to one of the food courts there. She said she was hungry and that she wanted chicken nuggets.

Since there was no Hardee's at that court, I got some nuggets from KFC instead.

While she was on her second piece, my daughter came up to her mother with her mouth open and looking agitated. "mama.. mama.. yucky," she mumbled while pointing at her mouth's full.

We opened her mouth and found a huge piece of chicken bone with a sharp, point edge! Can you believe this? My daughter would've easily chocked on it.

I took a few shots of the thing just to give you some perspective to the size of the bone fragment my 3 year old daughter's almost chocked on.

Its been a while

2008-08-28T09:55:00.000+04:00

I know .. had a few family matters to attend to over the past few weeks.

Will be back shortly..

Home Upgrades

2008-08-03T21:03:00.001+04:00

Today was a busy one .. I got 2 things for home. Though they might seem very insignificant, but I honestly think they will change the way we significantly do things around the house.

Deep Freezer.
I've been crunching some numbers lately. With the cost of food rising in this place (and everywhere else for that matter), it may only seem reasonable to look at stockpiling and storage. So, i went to Carrefour the other day and bought me one of them Small deep freezers. Now, instead of me buying 1 or 2 chickens every time i visit the mall. I'll go to the wholesaler and get me a 12 piece cartoon. And instead of buying lamb or beef by the kilo, i'll head straight to the Abattoir, and get me a half a lamb or something like that. It’ll be fresh and will definitely cost less.

With Ramadan being one month away, I think its the perfect time for this. If you know anything about Ramadan, food prices tend to go up like CRAZY here. The freezer cost was about Dhs 500. But i know it will save me loads of money and, most important, time.

New DVD player.
For some odd reason, i've been noticing, when it is very late at night and things are really really quiet, that my DVD player makes an annoying hissing, humming sound. Odd thing about this, it only does that when the machine is switched off! The sound disappears when I switch it on.

So, today, I though of buying another one. I didn't want anything fancy, because I already watch everything on the laptop. Just wanted something quiet and would play my daughter’s Dora, Barney and Winnie the Poo DVDs.

By pure luck, I found a DVD player that actually plays Divix files. Not only that, it has a USB port at the front panel. I wasn't sure it would play the AVI files that i have, but it was for about Dhs 200. And i wanted a new DVD player anyways. I just bought it and tried it the first thing i came home, and guess what. It worked. Now, i can watch movies on my 42" without having to burn stuff, it just plays anything I download straight off any USB stick. Yay.

Oh, and remember this? Well, they actually came and fixed the ceiling light fixture today.

Pretty productive.. don't u think? :)

Five laws i'd like to see implemented in Dubai

2008-07-28T22:18:00.000+04:00

Creating a Nation-wide credit system:
Banks are making a killing while many of the country's young, ambitious national and expatriate workers are getting caught in a thorny credit trap. And most are either in thrown in jail or default and runaway from the country.

Thanks to poor governance, banks are virtually giving away credit cards, personal loans, mortgages... and every other form of "financial services", to anyone who walks through the doors of banks, and -mind you- without any proper historical credit analysis or rating to the applicant. It reached a point where banks hire housewives and door-to-door credit card sales men. This plain wrong.

Making it Illegal to Disconnect Power or Water off ANY Residential Facility:
This is the case in many countries in the world. But sadly, not here. Living without water or electricity in a county like the UAE is, without a question, fatal. And I am not being over dramatic. Tempreture here often crosses the 50C mark during the summer. This the temperature internationally recognized as fatal to human beings. There are better ways for water and electricity agencies to coerce their customers to pay up. For example, Freezing bank accounts or imposing travel bans.

But not leaving women and children in the scorching heat of the summer without water or air conditioning. Its not only inhumane, its disgraceful.

Government Employees Working for Private Sector:
This is quite common in several GCC states. Especially in KSA and Saudi. Government employees are not permitted to run any private business. No matter what happens, you will always ALWAYS have conflict of interest. Today's Gulf News headline story is a pure example.

Readers: I would really like your thoughts on this one.

Imposing an Emirate-wide Quiet Hours:
Living almost anywhere in Dubai today is becoming a real annoyance. Dubai Municipality is giving away 24hrs construction permissions to contractors, right, left and centre, with out any regulation to the level of noise emitted by these construction company nor consideration to the noise pollution and what it is doing to thousands of families across the emirate.
Don't believe me, pass by next to my house anytime at night and see for yourself.

Making it illegal not to fully stop at Stop sign or at pedestrian zebra lines:
I was very impressed how in the US, they take these 2 regulations extremely seriously. If you do not stop at a STOP sign, or at a pedestrian crossing, you simply go to jail.
When you think about it, it does, significantly help reduce accidents. Stopping so frequently, especially when in residential areas, will result with fewer, almost no accidents.
We seriously need that here in Dubai. Just read the paper everyday.

First Impressions: Tunisia

2008-07-25T09:52:00.001+04:00

I was told there isn't much to do in Tunisia. To a point, that is true, sort off. But on my way out, it actually hit me. If you are looking for a place to relax, enjoy great weather, friendly people and amazing scenery, Tunisia is a winner.

The most annoying thing about a trip to Tunisia is probably the VISA procedure. It takes a minimum of 2 weeks, and the embassy keeps the passport with them through out that duration! The embassy is not that generous on granting visitng days. For example, on my passport I have all sorts of 5 years, multi entry visas (UK, USA, Schengen...etc). The Tunisian embassy gave me a visa that's valid for 3 months, a single entry that is valid for a maximum of 7 days visit only.

There are direct flight on Tunisian Air and Emirates flies to Tunis via a 1hr stop in Tripoly (Libya). Your trip might end up being a 6 to 7hrs stretch - a business class seat is highly recommended.

Carthage Airport is okay. Getting thru passport control took me about an hour - only 4 of the 20 passport control points were active. Nonetheless, staff was friendly and efficient. Customs people didn't bother me at all. I just walked out of the green (nothing to declare) gate.

I had an airport pick up waiting for me. I did notice though that no one sneaked up to me whispering the "taxi" words in my ear or tried to snatch my bag as if they want to "help me" carry it. It was a very chilled out experience.

I stayed at the Sheraton - if you are coming for business, I wouldn't recommend this hotel at all. Service wasn't that impressive; not for the amount of money I paid for at least. Internet service was abysmal and -digg this- when I wanted to book an airport drop, concierge told me that I had to book it 72hrs in advance. I was like "but I haven't been in Tunis for 72hrs yet!"

As a matter of fact, most of the people I met there gave me the lifted-eyebrow-look when I told them I am staying at the Sheraton. Turned out that there are far more better hotels like The Residence or The Abu Nawas . Maybe next time.

Taking cabs in Tunis was actually easy to do and trouble-free. Cabs charge by meters and all the cabbies I met were very friendly and nice(!). For instance, I took a cab from the hotel to our office. At first, I noticed that the cab driver didn't start the meter. Then, he started a conversation on how expensive things were becoming.

I rolled my eyes and was thinking to myself that its gonna be another one-of-those rides. I started preparing myself for a big argument over why didn't he start the meter and why should I be charged more just because I am non-Tunisian.

Half way thru the trip, the cabby realized that the meter was off and quickly started it. He looked genuinely annoyed. He turned to me and started apologizing till he dropped me off! He insisted that I pay nothing over what the meter was showing. I gave him double the amount.

I wasn’t 100% sure if where we stopped was the right place. So, I wandered around the place asking people for the location of our office. Our receptionist must’ve been doped out or something – she never picked up.

What I didn't noticed was that the cab driver stayed behind. He didn’t want to drive off before making sure I got to my destination. It turned out that he did actually drop me a far away from where I was supposed to be. He called me into the cab again and dropped me at the right place. He didn't charge me extra and repeated his apologies and gratitude. Very nice indeed.

I didn't see anything or visit anywhere in Tunisia. But I met up with many people there. They all said that I HAVE to see places like Hammamet, Sidi Bou Said and a few other sites I don't recall their exact names.

Food there was ok. I felt it was heavily influenced by the Moroccans. Try the traditional Tunisian soup – it’s like Moroccan Hrira soup, but with a spoon of Kouskous in it. Very nice. Non the less, there are plenty of Syrian and Lebanese resutrants in Tunis – so, you won’t feel far away from home.

Try the ‘Shai Bel Bondoq’. Its basically tea with a pinch of pine seeds. Its nice. Though it took me a minute to realize that Tunisian call pine seeds Bondoq. Everywhere else, its what we use to call Hazelnuts.

Another thing you should try there is Olives. At one meal, I didn’t realize that finished a whole plate of juicy green olives with fresh backed bread.

Everyone I ran into the in streets was nice. Weather was fantastic and on my way out, not a single airport staff hinted or implied that they wanted a special treat or anything of that matter.

Bottom-line is, if you want a nice place to chill out and relax in the hot summer months, somewhere not very expensive and Arabic is -comparativly to Morocco and Algeria- easy to understand, head out to Tunisia.

I know I will again.

Anything to do in Tunis?

2008-07-22T20:47:00.000+04:00

View from my hotel room, where I will be for a couple of days.

Speechless

2008-07-22T01:24:00.001+04:00

So, we came back from the supermarket this evening to find this waiting for us in the middle of the living room.

The building is less than 2 years old... this is what you get for Dhs 12,000/- per month in Dubai these days ...

Dubai eGovernment systems are working .. but

2008-07-20T03:38:00.002+04:00

We just arrived home from London. And thanks to the flexible capabilities of Emirates Airlines business class seat, I managed to have a good night sleep onboard.

I was hoping I could complete the sleep in the comfort of my own bed at home. But Dubai's construction boom had other plans.

About 6 weeks ago, a construction site, located quite next to our building, started working on 24/7 basis. And I do mean 24hr a day, 7 days a week.

And the work that goes at night is hardcore construction works. 10s of workers banging, dinging, machines growling, hammering, things thrown, debries falling, boards slamming and of course topped off with the shouting and yelling of workers in languages I can't recognize nor understand.

When this whole thing started to affect our sleep 6 weeks ago, I called the police. Once, I called them 4 times in one week. And every time they come, they tell me that they can't really do anything about it but ask the construction Forman to keep it down a bit.

"They have a 24hr work permit from Dubai Municipality. Your best shot is to complain to the municipality," said one officer. "Tell them (Municipality) that they (contractor's workers) are too loud and you called the police several times and we already logged your complaints."

So, I googled Dubai Municipality to get their phone number and was happy to find that they host an an E-complaint system on their website. In all fariness, Dubai Municipality has always been a pioneer in eGovernment (process automation, online services...etc)..

Of course, to file a complaint, one has to apply for a username/password, fill forms and all that stuff. So, i did everything, wrote them a nice emotional letter and asked them a few questions

1. On what basis are these 24/7 permits are granted?
2. What governs these permits and what are his limitation. I can understand if the contractor is doing interior works like wiring, pluming or works that don't really produce disturbing noises, but doing actual construction work ALL NIGHT? In a RESIDENTIAL NEIBROUHOOD?
3. I saw the contractor's 24/7 permit and there were "conditions" - however the conditions were very vague and said things like: Contractor has to keep the noise down. Down in comparison to what? What is down and what is high?
4. What if the contractor doesn't keep them down? What will you do?
5. Since this is a serious issue of "disturbance of the piece," why can't the police do anything about it?
6. Shouldn't there be a mechanism for the contractor to ask permission of the surrounding buildings? Since it will be them who he will keep them awake all night?

And many other questions…

I told them that I challenge the municipality person who granted this contractor the 24/7 permit would bare to spend a night next to this construction site in the middle of this residential neighborhood.

It will only be then he will know how inappropriate, inconsiderate and socially irresponsible his decision was.

To my surprise, i got a call immediately the next day from the Municipality. A lady asked me all sorts of questions and I answered her back and told her I am ready Anytime, day or night, to escort your inspectors and show them proof of this contractor's acoustical violations. She said that someone will call me from the municipality and follow-up on this. She was also really nice and understanding.

No one called, the noise is still at it as i update this post and nothing happened.

So, the Dubai Municipality’s eGovernment systems are working like clock work. But things aren’t happening … can someone tell me where is the missing link?

Not-so-impressive Arabs

2008-07-17T10:11:00.001+04:00

If you visit Harrod's in London without dropping by the Chocolate Bar on the 2nd floor, your visit is considered incomplete. Yesterday, the Mrs and I indulged on a mouth watering ‘Chocolate Fondant for 2’. It is simply to die for.

While everyone there was sitting quietly enjoying their chocolate fix, there was a bunch of guys sitting at the bar. They were Arab. They were laughing obnoxiously loud and acting as if they are sitting in some Shisha joint on the outskirts of Riyadh, getting high on shoe polish while watching a local soccer match.

Luckily, and half way through our feast, those guys paid and left. Another group of “Shabab” came in and took their place. The minute they sat down, they started hitting on a bunch of Arab girls that happened to be sitting next to them. They were so annoying to the point the girls changed their seat to another table far away.

Of course, everyone else in the place noticed what was going on. Seriously, why do we Arabs behave that way? There were Birts, Americans and some Europeans customers sitting there. No one was laughing loud and obnoxiously and no one was bothering anyone else. Except the Arabs…

Seriously, why? Why couldn't they just keep their vulgarity back home and enjoy their vacation like everyone else? What a shame...

Do you think I am generalizing or being too harsh?

Sexy Dubai [SFW]

2008-07-14T22:41:00.000+04:00

So guys... Ever wondered where the sexiest girls in the world can be found?

According to this, we are living on one of hottest ten cities on the planet - and I aint talking about the weather ;)

That’s right, Dubai! It’s not all shopping and golf. With a population drawn from all over the region and the wider world, the ladies of Dubai certainly cause jaws to drop.
As in many predominantly Muslim cities, women find ways of expressing feminine allure in spite of their hair and bodies being largely covered.
Makeup and shoes are rarely worn with such tantalizing effects as they are in Dubai.

Via [digg]

Personal Experience: Dubai Duty Free

2008-07-13T19:37:00.001+04:00

Because of a very extensive travel schedule, Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has become a favorite shopping destination. I end up buying everything from there. Especially perfumes. They are at least 20% cheaper than market.

On my last trip to Paris, my wife and daughter tagged along. Wondering what a 7hr flight might do to a hyper-active toddler, my wife proposed we buy one of them portable DVD players. To me, that was a brilliant idea as we can distract her with Dora, Barney and the Teletubbies.

So, after a bit of browsing, we bought a Sony portable for about Dhs 800 and 3 kids DVDs, paid for everything, picked up the bag and rushed to the gate after that and into the plane.

After take-off and the seatbelt sign switching off, I reached out to my bag to pull out and plug in the player in the in-seat power socket and get the little one entertained a bit. To my surprise, the DVDs were no where to be found.

I pulled down the bag and looked in every bag we had. My wife told me that most likely the salesman forgot to slip them in with the DVD player. Luckily, there was a cartoon channel on the in-flight TV and that did the trick with the little one.

Upon arrival to the hotel in Paris, I looked for the DVDs again with no avail. So, I called the DDF and asked them about the missing items that I paid for. The woman who answered told me that she will check with Lost & Found gave me a reference number and said that they will call me back. Between you and I, I thought that was the end of it.

Surprisingly, two days after that, they did call us back. The woman said that she didn't find anything in Lost & Found or in the "left behind" files. However, they will look into the case and call me back.

I wasn't too hopeful, to be honest, and didn't think I would see the Dhs 360 (cost of DVDs) back.

But a couple of weeks after that, the woman called me to tell me that they haven't found anything, however, they asked that the next time I travel via Dubai Airport, to check in with the customer service counter and claim any 3 DVDs of my choice!

I had a flight that week and I walked up to the Customer Service desk and identified myself. From my mobile number, she retrieved my file and informed me that if I prefer a cash refund or take ANY 3 DVDs of my choice. I told her I just want the same DVDs I didn't get.

She said to take anything I wish and they are willing to reimburse me the difference if what I take is less than the claimed amount.

She escorted me to the DVD section, waited until I picked the DVDs, processed the transaction on the DVD section cash counter, thanked me and apologized again for the inconvenience.

Hats off!

Seriously, about 15 million passengers from every tongue, shape, color and form, fly via Dubai Airport every year. And EACH and EVERY one of them pass by Dubai Duty Free.

To get such followup, attention and a personalized service like that is nothing but admirable and reflects a world class level of professionalism that can rarely be found anywhere else.

Thank you DDF.

Riyadh - another unforgettable moment

2008-07-11T04:56:00.004+04:00

24hrs ago, there was a chance that I may not be with you..

It all started when I went to bed in my Four Seasons Hotel @ The Kingdom tower in Riyadh.

I had an 8AM flight to catch and because of a really busy day, I had a late dinner, hence a late go-to-bed time. And because of the training sessions I held that day, I didn't get much sleep the night before preparing for them.

So I called reception and requested a couple wake up calls. 5:15am, and a reminder at 5:30 – that’s to make sure I don’t miss the flight and gain an underserved additional day in Rio… (that’s Riyadh in case you didn’t make the link)

At around 2 something AM, I opened my eyes the same way one would wake up realizing he missed an final exam or an important Job interview.. but mine was for a different reason. I was coughing lightly and something in the air just didn’t feel right.

There was a burning smell in the room. I got up and moved around. My laptop and cell phone were on charge. I smelled them and they were OK. The sleeping light (it was on) was also fine. The TV set was cold and fine.

As I roamed around the different parts of the room , it looked like that the smell was slipping from the AC vent.

I called the operator and told him that I am smelling something burning. This is the answer I got (I swear to you I am not joking).

“My pleasure sir, let me transfer you to the reception desk please”

So much for emergency escalation protocol, i thought to myself.

“Yeah hi, there is smell of something burning in my room… can you please send someone to check it out?”
“Sure thing sir, I will send someone to your room”

I hung up and kept checking the room’s electrical sockets and wiring. They all seamed fine. However, the smelled started to get stronger and my coughs became more frequent.

No one came up to my room yet.

I decided to take things into my own hands. I packed up my stuff, got everything in my only bag I travel with, quickly got dressed, picked up my ticket and passport and head to the door.

On my way out, I called reception again..

“Hi, I called about 10, 15 minutes ago and informed you about a burning smell in the room. No one came up till now. This is not a joke. There is a strong burning smell and I am leaving the room”

“I am coming up right away sir..”

The room is on the 32nd floor and I don’t want to end up being on the Saudi Gazette the next day as one of the victims Saudis first towering infernos. But again, it could very much be the guy next door to mine, doing his Saudi Jrak (oversized shisha), and his puffs were slipping via the AC ducts.

So, not wanting to look like another over excited Dubai based drama queen, I walked out of the room, closed the door behind me and waited in corridor for the reception guy to come in.

3 or 4 minutes passed, a guy comes rushing through the hallway.

“it’s a very strong smell,” I told him as he walked passed me and slipped his card in the door slot.

He opened the door and the smell hit both of us surprisingly hard. I was shocked myself how the charred odor got so much stronger. Not only that, but the room was hazy. It looked as if someone spent the last 3 hours there, smoking one pack of ciggerates after another.

“I am so sorry for this sir, i will check you in another room”

“Thats not improtnat now, can you please talk to whoever you need to talk to, to find the source of this? It looks very serious.”

“Yes, yes”.. and head toward the phone and reported it. He called to check whether they had any rooms ready for me to move into. By then, I wasn’t even sure I wanted to stay in the entire place in the first place.

“it looks like the AC fan motor is faulty – its burned and caused that smell to spread around ur room. I am very sorry for that sir”

Another man came in.

He immediately opened the hatch in the false ceiling and confirmed the receptionist theory.

“Don’t worry sir, thank God the fire is not serious,” the second guy said. “ Or else, the fire alarm should’ve gone off. Its only the AC fan motor.”

And thank God I am not a serious sleeper, I thought to myself. Or else I could’ve died of asphyxia during my sleep.

"Thats fine," I said. "these things happen."

I was escorted to a new room. But all that excitement kept me up for the rest of last night until it was time for me to head to the airport.

I checked out about 3hrs after the incident. No one mentioned it at the reception desk. Not even a “sorry for the inconvenience”, marking another unforgettable moment in Riyadh.

Riyadh - unforgettable moments

2008-07-10T17:54:00.001+04:00

I flew in from Saudi this morning ...

Yesterday I ran three back-to-back 2hr long training sessions to our Saudi sales force. Had about 30 people in each session and man I was drained.. But that was the boring part..

Last night, a friend picked me up to go have dinner. On the way and at one of the red lights, I saw a women sitting next to her husband in the car next to our’s. I noticed that she wasn’t wearing a seat belt but her husband did.

Me: umm.. isn't it mandatory for people to wear seatbelts here?
Friend: Yes…
Me (in a disinterested tone): this women isn't wearing hers .. her hubby will get a ticket.
Friend: neeh... he won't
Me (ok, now I am interested): shme3na? [why not]
Friends: Here, if a woman is sitting in the front seat, she should not wear the seat belt.
Me: And why not?
Friend: Because if she does, the seat belt coming across her torso, will outline her boobs and the religious police might arrest both of them..
Me: (silence)

Oh boy!

2008-07-09T17:34:00.001+04:00

If you are in media, Read this ...

UPDATE: It seems that The Sun is not shining on Michelle Palmer anymore :)

She would be over-friendly, grabbing people inappropriately. She would even grab hold of women’s boobs.