Y - Issue 180 - July 26, 2011 - Y-Oman

Weekly July 26, 2011 

Issue 180 

IMAGINE 

THE FUTURE 

BIRKAT 

AL-MOUZ 

KHADIJA AL 

HINAI 

CLINT MCLEAN 

RED BULL 

DRIFTING 

BADR AL SAMAA 

TEENAGE BOOK

Dear Reader, 

Creativity is mode of thought that led to progress 

and invention throughout human history. Oman has 

benefited from numerous advances in technology and 

the higher education institutes open to young Omanis 

means that there will be a new generation with the 

skills, impetus and creativity to create home-grown 

solutions to resolve home-grown challenges. This 

week we speak to two talented technology students 

who managed to clinch second place in the illustrious 

Imagine Cup 2011 finals. This tournament rewards 

youngsters who create technological solutions to 

everyday predicaments, and the team’s idea sparked 

interest from the judges. This looks to be just the 

start for Osama al Adawi and Salim al Harbi who 

have a promising future ahead of them, to develop 

their careers as well as to contribute to their country’s 

continued progress. 

Also in the issue, we have a Spotlight on one of the 

region’s most promising photographers, Clint Mclean, 

as he explains the lengths and depths he goes to 

in order to get the perfect snapshot of life, in some 

of the world’s most remote areas. We have another 

feature on the very talented Khadija Fatahallah Al 

Hinai who explains her dual passions of make-up and 

photography as well as featuring one of the country’s 

most serene areas with this week’s Venture on Birkat 

Al-Mouz. Plus, we have all the latest information on 

local and international news, reviews, events and 

sports news. 

We hope you enjoy the issue! 

Y Team

Discover 

magnificent 

Java - Bali overlanD 

10 Days / 8 nights 

JAVA…The richest, most lush and most densely 

populated of Indonesia’s Islands has an extraordinary 

diverse landscape from towering volcanoes to dense 

forest, manicured rice paddies and teeming cities, 

thanks largely to the early development of wet-rice 

cultivation imported from India. 

Included: 

• Flight by Qatar Airways from Muscat to 

Kuala Lumpur in Economy Class 

• All taxes and fuel surcharges 

• All transfers as mentioned in the program 

• Half Day City Sightseeing Tour with English 

speaking Guide 

• Full Day Sunway Lagoon Theme Park with 

English speaking Guide 

• Entrance Fees for all sights and Parks 

• Accommodation in 3 - 5* Hotels based on 

twin-sharing including daily breakfast 

• VAT & service charge 

Not included: 

No meals and drinks, tipping, gratuities, 

personal expenses, domestic airfares and 

Travel Insurances. 

Prices are subject to change without notice! 

“See the country and meet the people” 

YOUR ITINERARY 

Day 1: Arrival in Jakarta 

Day 2: Jakarta – Bogor – Bandung (B/L/-) 

Day 3: Bandung (B/L/-) 

Day 4: Bandung – Garut – Tasikmalaya – Baturaden (B/L/-) 

Day 5: Baturaden – Dieng Plateaus – Yogyakarta (B/L/-) 

Day 6: Yogyakarta (B/L/-) 

Day 7: Yogyakarta – Malang (B/L/-) 

Day 8: Malang – Kalibaru (B/L/-) 

Day 9: Kalibaru – Bali (B/L/-) 

Day 10: Early morning departure by Emirates Airlines or 

Qatar Airways from Denpasar via Jakarta to Muscat. 

YOUR ITINERARY 

BALI Beach Extension - Shocking Offer!!! 

7 nights Bali from OMR 115 - OMR 215/- 

Including 7 nights’ accommodation in twin-sharing, 

daily breakfast, return airport transfers and 3 excursions, 

Sindbad Trails representative, VAT 

Day 1: Flight from Muscat to Kuala Lumpur, 

Arrival and transfer to hotel 

Day 2: Half Day City Sightseeing 

Day 3: Full day at leisure 

Day 4: Full day at leisure 

Day 5: Visit full day Sunway Lagoon Theme Park and enjoy 

the Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, 

Extreme Park and Scream Park. 

Day 6: Full day at leisure for last shopping 

and strolling around. 

Day 7: After breakfast transfer to the airport 

and departure for Muscat 

PRICE PER PERSON 

Hotel Sentral 3* OMR 395/- 

Hotel Furama Bintang 4* OMR 440/- 

Hotel Istana 5*OMR 465/or 

similiar Hotels 

(Supplement for Istana Hotel 

from 01.09. to 31.10.11 per person OMR 30/-) 

PrIcE PEr PErSOn OMr 665/- 

Included: 

• Flight by Qatar Airways or Emirates from 

Muscat to Jakarta and return from Bali in 

Economy Class 

• All taxes and fuel surcharges 

• Tour & transfer as mentioned in the program 

• Air-conditioned vehicle 

• English speaking Guide 

• Entrance Fees for all sights 

• Accommodation in 3-4* Superior class 

Hotels based on twin-sharing 

• Daily breakfast at the hotel and lunch at 

local restaurants en route 

• VAT & service charge 

Not included: 

All dinners and drinks, tipping, gratuities, 

personal expenses, domestic airfares and 

Travel Insurances. 

Prices are subject to change without notice! 

Discover 

Kuala lumpur 

“city of contrasts” 

7 Days / 6 nights 

Kuala Lumpur – KL to its friends – is more than 

just a capital city: it is a monument to Malaysian 

ingenuity and determination. From humble 

beginnings as a tin-mining shanty town, KL 

has evolved into a 21st-century metropolis, 

dominated by the tallest skyscrapers in 

Southeast Asia. 

SINDBAD TRAILS 

Division of: Gulf Sindbad Travel & Tourism LLc 

Al Khwair 17/1, Al Kuleiah Street, 

Villa 14, P.O.Box 715, PC114, 

Muttrah - Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, 

Phone: +968 2439 5000, Mobile: +968 9709 1992 

info@sindbad-trails.com

6 

This week in 

22 

Y-rated 

IMAGInE CuP 

28 

Spotlight 

CLInT MCLEAn 

9 

14 

Twentyfour Seven 

Dar Al Atta, Oman Air, Summer Shopping, 

Badr Al Samaa, LG Optimus Black, Teenage Book 

Check This Out 

Events, Amy Winehouse, Public Transport, Hajj 

Exhibition, Book Fairs, Planet Supra, Haya Water 

26 

36 X-tra Time 

Summer of Sport, Red Bull Drifting 

20 Venture 

Birkat Al-Mouz 

Spotlight 

Khadija Al Hinai 

45 Chillaxative 

Crosswords, Social Media 

July 26, 2011 Issue 180 

Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi Editor-in-Chief | Paul McLoughlin Work Editor 

Karima Farid Chief Reporter | Clint Derric Egbert Sports Writer/Photographer | Jerzy Wierzbicki Photographer 

Eihab Abutaha General Manager | Feroz Khan Director of Sales & Marketing | Ayman Canawati Logistics Manager 

For editorial enquiries, email info@y-oman.com | Published by SABCO Press, Publishing & Advertising LLC | Y is a SABCO Media Product.

WINNING 

LETTER 

a WOrk eXperienCe 

Dear Y Team 

It's wonderful to read about the talented omanis embarking on carreers with a 

goal and commitment. Last week's issue carried four young talented artists - 

excellent and superb - motivation for the younger generation. 

I would like to share about my Omani collegue - he is dedicated, hard working 

and committed to his work, any time, any day, even on a holiday. 

One holiday we needed him in the morning at 4am for official work - I've 

requested him and without any hesitance he agreed and reported for work at 

3.50am. We were really amazed, and appreciated his punctuality, dedication and 

commitment. 

Other instance was when we needed him for work at 11 in the night for some 

urgency, again he was on time and left after the job was completed. 

On the glorious occasion of the 41st Renaissance Day we all salute the architect 

of modern Oman, His Majesty, and how his wise and able leadership is helping 

to create a better tomorrow. 

kumar.V 

Azaiba 

be a Winner! 

Each week we are selecting our best reader’s letter or image, 

and giving away fantastic prizes care of Al nahda Resort & Spa! 

Simply email us at info@y-oman.com 

Value of prizes may vary each week. This prize is not redeemable for cash or alternatives. 

Only one winner is selected at the discretion of Y magazine. Proof of Identity is required to claim your prize. 

READER'S 

LETTERS 


nO age bar TO SmOking - WhO'S TO blame? 

Last weekend, while watching the sunset at one of the beaches in 

Muscat, I saw a teenager about 12 to 13 years of age sitting right 

in front of me and emerges with a fancy cigarette packet, pulls out 

one and starts smoking. I observed that neither did he know how 

to hold a cigarette properly nor did he know to dust the ash off it; 

perhaps a beginner. I kept watching him as he anxiously started 

smoking another one, looking around with caution so that he isn’t 

caught in the act. 

These days, where we get to hear stories like this every day, 

sometimes even involving people from our family and friends, all we 

are left with is an incomplete thought, and just a nod that a devil 

practice like this has spread so wide already. In a situation like 

this, whom was I supposed to blame? The public authorities for not 

keeping checks in public places or parents who don’t keep account 

of where their children's pocket money goes, or the teenager. Or, 

was this a litmus test to check the extent of the effectiveness of 

worldwide initiatives like nO TOBACCO DAY etc. This disturbing sight 

took some time to settle with me, leaving me unpredictable about 

what the next generation holds and what unspoken influences the 

kids playing around him had on him. 

avni pawani 

reaCh YOUr gOal 

Dear Editor, 

Every individual has some kind of dream they would like to 

accomplish during their lifetime. The goals are achievable and 

controllable, but they purely depend upon the individual’s capability 

and their faith in them. However, they are often distracted by other 

influencing factors. The daily changing surroundings confuse 

people when it comes to moulding their dreams. People who do 

not want to take risks in life conveniently accept their failures. The 

uncertainty remains with some individuals but end up in failure or 

not achieving their goals. Failures should not dominate our life but 

should be a guiding path to success. Parents want their children to 

be the best but conveniently ignore the limitations and capabilities 

of their children. Ideally, children should be the ones designing and 

planning their goals, and not the parents. The parents should only 

guide and support them in fulfilling their dreams. 

With best regards, 

ramachandran nair 

Ruwi


Programmed To Train 

Dar Al Atta always comes up with new and consistent ways to finance and 

help society. We had just found out that Dar Al Atta has announced that 

they will finance a new initiative with Amideast. This initiative will train high 

school graduates from Al Seefah on how to use Microsoft applications and the 

internet; these skills will be used in both college and work life. 

Maryam Al Zidjali, Head of Dar Al Atta, and Mohammed Al Touqi, a representative 

from Amideast, met to sign the agreement in Muscat. Maryam Al Zudjali, Head 

of Dar Al Atta said, “The launch of our latest programme in conjunction with 

Amideast will provide the girls with the essential training they will need when 

they are working. The ability to be able to write documents using Word and 

create presentations and spreadsheets is essential, as well as the ability to 

be able to search the internet when researching in preparation for particular 

projects. 

Dar Al Atta is known throughout the Sultanate for their ongoing initiatives with Oman's community, and Maryam shared with us on how this programme will benefit 

people in the country saying, “We are confident that the training will give the girls the confidence and tools they need to start their working life in the best possible 

position. Dar Al Atta would like to thank Amideast for their help and guidance in creating a training programme that is tailored to meet the needs of our 18 students 

and we look forward to monitoring their progress”. For more information contact 24692996, and maybe you can be inspired to lend a hand too.

Oman Air continues to 

soar higher and further 

The KLIA Awards, which was introduced in 2006, is Malaysia’s sole aviation awards 

ceremony that takes place annually, paying tribute to the best performers in the aviation 

industry. It has grown to become one of the most important events in the calendar of 

Malaysia’s aviation sector. 

Our very own airline, Oman Air, reigned supreme clinching the ‘Most Promising new Foreign 

Airline of the Year’ award for exceptional performance in the year 2010, beating two other 

newcomer airlines for the title. 

Recognised for its outstanding technological innovations, strategic offerings, fantastic 

onboard performance and positive involvement in the field of aviation, Oman Air successfully 

wowed judges in the category. 

Chief Office of Corporate Affairs, Philippe Georgiou commented, “Oman Air views this win 

as a deserving accolade for the inventiveness and people centric winnable attitude of the 

Oman Air team that has been determined from the beginning to take Oman from beyond 

the sandy shores of Oman to the greener grassy borders of the fast growing South East 

Asian region. The KLIA Awards offer recognition to different categories of airlines and 

service providers in KLIA. The winners were chosen based on their 2010 feat in sectors 

such as passenger movement, growth factor, sales performance, international recognition, 

as well as their service performance. Incidentally, the award ceremony itself was also a 

unique event since it coincided with Malaysia’s 100 year celebration of its involvement in 

the aviation industry and Oman Air is proud to have been part of this.” 

Kathleen Leong, Oman Air District Sales Manager in Malaysia, was presented with the 

award, who has been instrumental in carrying out Oman Air’s successful venture into 

Malaysia. On winning the award, Leong said, “Together with the Oman Air team in Muscat 

(we) have made a hugely positive impact on the Malaysian landscape about Oman Air’s 

single-minded purpose of opening its borders to Malaysians and vice-versa. This win will 

be the catalyst for greater forward moving momentum in the years ahead.” 

10 


Summer 

Shopping Spree 

For those of you who have never visited the fantastic Layali Al Asalah 

villa before then you are truly missing out on great clothes, shoes, 

jewellery, bags and much more. Here is their vision so you can get 

to know exactly what they offer: “Our vision is to be recognised as 

the leading fashion institution in Oman that is able to scout for and 

groom successful Omani fashion designers. Layali Al Asalah should 

be synonymous with every Omani man or woman that really wants 

to get into the fashion industry and don’t know how. We equip them 

with all the training that will require in being successful in their 

fashion designing career.” 

For Ramadan, many shopping options open to you. One of the nicer 

shopping venues is the Layali Al Asalah villa. You can head there 

and check out their latest collections of Jalabiyas and much more. 

For any more information, please visit www.layalialasalah.com. or 

to get the location map go to www.layalialasalah.com/contactus_ 

layali.html.


A Boost for Healthcare 

We have been witnessing the growth in private healthcare hospitals and clinics 

in Muscat, and this gives a chance to people living in Oman to opt for what they 

feel is best when they visit the hospital. 

Just last week, Badr Al Samaa, the Sultanate’s largest private healthcare provider, 

informally opened its eighth brand in nizwa. The opening was in the presence of 

Mr. V.T Vinod, Mr. Abdul Latheef and Mr. P.A Mohammed with a formal inaugural 

ceremony and grand function due to be held after Eid Al Fitr with other dignitaries 

and officials. According to the Board of Directors, Mr. V.T.Vinod, Mr. Abdul Latheef 

and Mr. P.A Mohammed, “Badr Al Samaa as a responsible corporate citizen has 

been extending medical facilities to nationals as well as the expatriate community 

at affordable rates and our new branch will continue to extend the same to the 

public in and around nizwa at a cost affordable to all.” 

The new Badr Al Samaa nizwa branch is located next to the nizwa roundabout, so it should be easy to find and will be an eight floor facility across 8,000 sqm. It 

will include an Emergency department as well as Internal Medicine, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Paediatrics & neonatology EnT, General Surgery, Orthtopaedics, 

Dermatology, Radiology, Ophthalmology and Dental departments. Congratulations to Badr Al Samaa for their eighth branch, and let’s hope that they will continue 

to deliver excellent healthcare across the Sultanate of Oman. 

11

Algeposa Ships into Salalah 

Salalah’s strategic location was reconfirmed this week as two industry leaders, Algeposa and 

the Port of Salalah, announced that there will be a state-of-the-art distribution centre built in the 

southern city. Algeposa is one of the leading logistical and managing groups in the handling of 

iron and steel products and already boasts a strong presence in the Iberian Peninsula. The new 

distribution centre will take advantage of trade to emerging markets in East Africa, South Asia and 

the Gulf, which will help cement Oman’s position in the global supply chain of steel and iron. The 

CEO of Port of Salalah, Peter Ford said, “We are pleased to announce the start of this long-term, 

mutually beneficial relationship with Algeposa. This distribution centre provides Algeposa, and 

their customers, the ability to easily reach the world’s most desirable emerging markets today. For 

the Port of Salalah it proves that the strategic location, commonly known to the world’s largest 

shipping lines, is also the optimum location for distribution and manufacturing.” 

The Algeposa project will feature warehousing, freight forwarding, packaging and transportation facilities thanks to the construction of a 40,000 sqm, $14 million 

(5.4 million rials) logistics centre that is expected to generate a further 400,000 tonnes of cargo to the Port of Salalah. Speaking of the prospects this construction 

will open up to Oman, Mr. Carlos Gonzales, General Manager of Algeposa Group Spain said, “The MOu (Memorandum of understanding) I am signing today with 

Port of Salalah is part of our long-term commitment to enhance our services to our customers. Salalah will be a crucial addition to our global facilities and the 

location of Port of Salalah makes it one of the most ideal logistics distribution hubs connecting the East-West cargo route to the fast-growing Middle East, African 

and South Asia markets.” HE Jose Luis Rosello, the Spanish Ambassador to Oman was also in attendance during the signing. 

12 

With Android phones flooding the market here in Oman, it is 

obvious that for this new generation of mobile phones to be so 

successful it must hold something special. The Optimus Black 

from LG was recently launched in Oman and offers something truly 

special; the stylishly slim and lightweight Android smartphone 

provides mobile users the world’s brightest display screen with 

superior visuals, even in broad daylight. “For smartphone users 

who appreciate both style and substance, the LG Optimus Black 

offers beauty, performance and mobility in one smart package. 

LG Optimus Black is a significant addition to our global Optimus portfolio and we think it’ll prove to be one of our most popular phones,” said H.S. Paik, 

President of LG Electronics Gulf FZE. 

LG Brightening 

Oman’s Mobile 

World 

Boasting of a 700-nits¹ display, the LG Optimus Black enhances user visibility and provides the highest levels of true black and whites visuals. It also sports 

a massive 4-inch screen, compared to its competitors who offer only 3.5 inch LCD screens. The Optimus Black also consumes 50 percent less power 

indoors. users can also avail of facilities like web browsing, writing emails and reading documents. “We are excited to introduce this stylish new Android 

smartphone in the Oman market. LG Optimus Black with advanced technology, in both display and design, offers the world’s brightest screen and the 

world’s slimmest design. We expect this innovative smart phone to play a key role in the mobile market,” said Anil Khimj, Director, Al Khanjar Infosystems 

LLC. You can purchase your LG Optimus Black from Khimji Information & Communication Technology in MQ. For more details, call 24696255 or visit the 

Khimji Ramdas Facebook page.


Penning the teen years 

Some of the most confusing 

and crucial times of one’s life 

are probably the teenage years, 

when guidance is the key to the 

right moulding of a person’s 

personality and character. 

These days it’s difficult to 

dedicate as much time to children 

as was possible in the past, but it 

is still imperative to endow them 

with the right morals and advice 

in order to for them to become 

an asset to society. Realising 

this fact, Indian national, Prof. 

C. F. Joseph, and Canadian Bob 

urichuck, co-authored the book 

‘I Too Am A Teenager, Born To 

Excel, Excel I Will’ that was 

released by the Indian Ambassador HE Anil Wadhwa, recently. 

The book is basically a self-help book that can be used as a guide for 

teenagers, enabling them to make the right choices and understand 

the importance of success, attitude, motivation and how to achieve 

their goals and ambitions. 

Talking about the book, and what it has to offer, the authors say, 

“The book will help commit the teenager first to him and then to his 

dreams. As he reads, thinks and writes his way through these 12 

essential and meaningful steps he/she will literally author his own 

future step-by-step, and make his dreams a reality.” 

The Indian Ambassador, HE Anil Wadhwa who too recognises the 

brilliance of this book says, “The teenager’s mind is often under 

pressure from several quarters and this is when guidance is 

needed. This book seems to fill that gap. I would recommend this 

book to all teenage students who wish to realise their full potential 

and become worthy citizens of the world.” 

The book has already received tremendous applause and 

recognition from academics, principals, career counsellors, parents 

and students as well, already selling thousands of copies.

Events 

Do you have any upcoming events? Drop us 

a mail at info@y-oman.com, and your event 

will be featured in the next issue of Y! 

Dubai Summer Surprises 

until end of July 

The region’s biggest annual summer extravaganza will take place 

between June 22nd and July 31st. The 2011 Summer in Dubai lineup 

is set to extend the season this year with DSS, Ramadan and Eid 

creating an extra-long calendar with a range of exciting activities that 

offer something for the whole family. 

A Winter Wonderland - The WGO Crystal 

Ball 2011 

8th December 

This spectacular event will take place at the Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah 

Resort and Spa Amphitheatre. To avoid disappointment, as this is a 

hugely popular event, book now! Tickets are on sale and available for 

collection at the upcoming September registration on the 18th, 20th and 

25th September. Reservations can be made every Wednesday at Caribou 

Coffee in Bareeq Al Shatti between 11am and 1pm. 

Oman’s Largest Shopping Fair 

From July 24 

Autumn Trade Fair (ATF), the country’s largest shopping fair will be a tenday 

shopping fiesta. ATF, will be held from July 24 to August 2, 2011 at 

the Oman International Exhibition Centre. 

14 

SOMETHING TO 

KNOW ABOUT OMAN 

Test your knowledge in geography! 

Answer the question on the right and get a chance to 

WIN RO 5 VOUCHERS from BEST BURGER. 

OUR PREVIOUS WEEK TRIVIA WINNERS ARE: 

SUNIL EDWARDS, ALAN K VARUGHESE and FAWAZ NIDHAL TAWFEEQ 

Please call us at 24475068 for details in claiming your Prizes. 

Yolanda Be Cool 

27th July 

Best Burger is located at the 

ground floor of Zakher Mall. 

Where in Oman you can find 

this mall? 

A) Al Seeb 

B) Nizwa 

C) Al Khuwair 

Email your answer to bestburgeroman@gmail.com, with your 

complete name, age and contact number 

Experience Best Burger and More at Zakher Mall, Al Khuwair, Muscat. CALL us at 24475068 


One of Dance music’s hottest acts, Yolanda Be Cool, are heading to the 

Jabrin Ballroom in the InterContinental Muscat next week for a live show 

on Wednesday, 27th July. Yolanda Be Cool are the act behind the massive 

summer smash ‘We Speak no Americano’ and tickets for the event are 

available at Al Ghazal in the InterContinental Muscat and Bose Store in 

Qurum City Centre. For more information, visit www.hifmradio.com 

Grand Hyatt Muscat Iftar 

During Ramadan 

Throughout the Holy Month, Grand Hyatt Muscat will be holding a 

selection of Iftar meals at the hotel’s restaurants. Mokha Café will feature 

a range of traditional cuisine, including harris and lamb ouzi, along with 

fresh bread and juices. The buffet is priced at 17 rials ++ per person, and 

will be accompanied by a live Oud performance. For more information, 

visit www.hyatt.com 

City Cinema Kids Festival 

until 27th July 

If you haven't visted the movies with the kids this summer, then go ahead! 

There will be two shows every day starting at 10:45am and 1:40pm in 

Plaza 1 of City Cinema Shatti. Children can engage in fun activities like face 

painting and photo shoots during the 20 minute break between the two 

films. Tickets for the two movies are priced at only 3 rials.


Death of a Legend 

Amy Jade Winehouse was extremely talented and deeply loved. 

She was born on September 14th, 1983, and was only 27 when 

she passed away recently. Her death, at the time of print, is 

yet unexplained, but her body was found in her London flat last 

Saturday afternoon on 23rd July. It is no secret that this Grammy 

Award Winner was struggling with various addictions and recently 

spent time in rehabilitation. 

After reading articles regarding the singer’s death, I realised that 

people are being mean towards Amy, and are disrespecting her 

even after her death, forgetting that she was once a baby in her 

mother's arms. Amy was actually born into a Jewish family in north 

London, and this was where her love for jazz was born. 

Amy’s interest in music and singing started at a very young age and 

teachers found it hard to keep her quiet even in class. 

This talented singer-songwriter was known for her upbeat, uptempo 

music, and her powerful voice. She tool to R’n’B, Soul and Jazz 

with ease, bring out her first album ‘Frank’ in 2003, which was 

extremely successful and was nominated for a Mercury Music 

Prize. Her follow-up album ‘Back to Black’ earned her six Grammy nominations and five 

awards. 

In February 2007, she won the BRIT award for Best Female British Artist. To top it off she 

won the Ivor novello Award three times. The first award for ‘Stronger Than Me’, another in 

2007 for ‘Rehab’ and again in 2008 for ‘Love is a Losing Game’. 

Many have blogged and tweeted about Amy's death. As for Amy herself, the late great 

singer's last tweet was recorded on Thursday, July 7th, which stated: 

“Make sure you all download your copy of #GoodForTheSoul,” she wrote. 

“The incredible album by the amazing @dionneofficial. OUT NOW!” 

This artist joined the ‘27 Club’ (Google it and you will be freaked out with the long list 

of artists that have died at age 27), and there is no doubt that the world has lost a very 

talented artist.

For the Public 

The lack of public transportation in Oman has been a problem for 

many residents in Oman, and it is an issue that desperately requires 

the attention from all concerned parties. In October, organised by 

Oman International Trade and Exhibitions (OITE), TransOman event 

will shed light on issues such as public transportation. 

Alawi Abdulrahman, a concerned Omani citizen, stressed that the 

relevant authorities should mull over the issue of public transport in 

the country. He says, “Therefore, Oman needs to have an elaborate 

and efficient public transport system across the country; this can 

reduce traffic jams in major business districts. However, for this 

goal to be achieved people have to change their attitude towards 

their mode of travelling. Here in Oman, you may find almost every 

house having more than one car. The citizens and residents must 

themselves encourage the use of public transport which can make 

the government to act efficiently over this issue. The fact is simple, 

if more people start using public transport, then the concerned 

authorities will sort out a final effective decision.” 

16 


Ebrahim Taher, the Project Manager spoke about the exhibition, which will be held between 24th to 26th October at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. 

He says, “TransOman Exhibition 2011 will emphasise on the need to produce an effective public transport system in the country. When citizens witness a big 

change in this sector, for sure they will prefer to use public transportation. Besides, the use of public transportation will help in reducing the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) 

emissions of the city and provide an eco-friendly system, may be not so much but still comparatively better. Therefore, a comprehensive policy is needed for 

developing a commercially viable public transport system for Oman.” 

Public transportation is vital, and since TransOman Exhibition 2011 is one of the recognised events which is dedicated to the transport and logistics sector in the 

GCC Region, hopefully this event will make a difference. note these dates down in your diary, and make sure you visit to find out more about the benefits of public 

transportation. 

Hajj: Journey to the Heart of Islam 

From 26th January to 15th April next year, you will be able to visit a special exhibition where you can learn more about the Hajj. Held in The British Museum London, 

and sponsored by HSBC Amanah, this first of its kind exhibition will examine the importance of the Hajj as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. HSBC Amanah is the 

global Islamic financial services business of the HSBC Group established in 2008. 

This exhibition will explore the importance of the Hajj for Muslims and will look at the spiritual journey through history. neil MacGregor, Director of the British 

Museum said, “The British Museum’s exhibition, ‘Hajj: Journey to the Heart of Islam’, will enable a global audience to deepen their understanding of the significance 

and history of the Hajj. In particular, it will allow non-Muslims to explore the one aspect of Islamic practice and faith which they are not able to witness directly, 

but which plays a major part in forming a worldwide Islamic consciousness.” 

Mukhtar Hussain, Global CEO of HSBC Amanah and CEO of HSBC Malaysia said, “We are delighted to be associated with the British Museum’s exhibition, ‘Hajj: 

Journey To The Heart of Islam’, which forms part of HSBC’s wider Cultural Exchange programme promoting international understanding.” 

So if you’re looking at visiting London next year, try and pencil in the dates 26th January and 15th April 2012 in you schedule, to ensure you don’t miss out on 

The British Museum’s fascinating exhibition. Opening hours are from 10am to 5:30pm from Saturday to Thursday, and 10am to 8:30pm on Fridays. For more 

information, log on to www.britishmuseum.org/hajj.


Salalah Tourism Festival 2011 

We are extremely jealous that there is an ongoing book fair going on in Salalah and we aren’t able to make it there to check it out! The Book Fair is receiving a huge 

amount of interest from passionate readers from all over Oman owing to its fine collection of books in genres such as politics, history, religion, education, culture, 

poems, cooking, fashion, romantic novels to children’s stories. 

Hassan Mohammed, Senior Manager of Festivals at Oman International Trade & Exhibitions (OITE), the organisers, said that the Book Fair this year is attracting 

people of various ages who come along with their families. «Plenty of exhibitors are participating this year at the Book Fair, from within and outside the Sultanate, 

including countries like the united Arab Emirates and Lebanon. People can also find motivational books written by famous Arab scholars like Tariq Al Suwaidan 

and Aaidh Al Qarni.” 

The book fair will end on July 30th, coinciding with the closing of the Salalah Tourism Festival 2011. So if you’re in Salalah check out the book fair and tell us which 

books you bought from there. 

Happy reading! 

Book it in your Diary 

If you have missed out on this, you still have a chance to join in the 'Plant a Book' 

campaign over the next three days. This campaign was created on Facebook by Yesha 

Kanabar and Rishii Kanabar, and it’s all about books! Many of us love reading, so many 

of us are housing a collection of unused books at home. 

Through this campaign you will be able to give back to society by donating your books. 

Just drop off your old books at your nearest Pizza Hut branch or Lulu today, as from 

tomorrow 27th July until the 29th July a mega sale at Bareeq Al Shatti will take place, 

where these books will be sold. A 100 percent of the proceeds will go for the Welfare of 

Thalassemia, a Hereditary Blood Disorder group. 

This is a great way to get rid of books you don’t read anymore, and an excellent excuse 

to buy what you haven’t read. Check out this mega sale, and hats of to both Yesha and 

Rishii for coming up with this wonderful idea.

18 

The newest, coolest, baddest station has just 

landed in our capital. The best R’n’B, house, 

rock, lounge and pop from around the world, 

delivered with fresh local flavour. 

www.radiomerge.fm 

July 26, 2011 Issue 180


Helping the Planet, 

One Stroke at a Time 

Recognised by the very reputed Clinton Climate Initiative for its environmentally friendly and efficient 

properties, Planet Supra paint is the first thermal barrier coating to be launched in the Sultanate of Oman, 

offering households, offices and other constructions the option of supreme protection. Boasting of a 

reflection rate of 94.6 percent, the coating helps reduce both electricity consumption and CO² emissions 

as well. 

Planet Supra have been brought to Oman under the collaboration of Sci Paint Japan, Inc and Sadolin Paints 

(Oman) Ltd and intend to provide the best product to the Omani market after intensive testing and trials. The 

paint has already been approved by big names like Wal-Mart (Chile), Carrefour (Thailand), Coca-Cola (Japan), Al 

Zour Power Plant (Kuwait), and Masdar Properties (Abu Dhabi), as testament to it’s supremacy as a product. 

Application too is simple, and can be used on practically any surface, such as concrete, bricks, metal, wood, or even canvas. All that is required is a roller, 

brush or spray gun and you’re good to go. What makes this product so special is the fact that it can actually reduce power consumption by up to 30 percent. 

It is also non-toxic and safe for households with children. 

“We are pleased to announce our technical collaboration with Sci paint Japan, Inc and bring Planet Supra to the Sultanate. Sadolin Paints has always been 

known to raise the bar when it comes to environment friendly versatile paints; and the launch of ‘Planet Supra’ is a step in the very same direction. With 

temperatures soaring high each summer, we are pleased to manufacture this high quality finish with superior protection for our customers in Oman.” said 

MM Khan, General Manager of Sadolin Paints (Oman) Ltd. 

So for lower utility bills and to do your bit for the environment of in Oman, call 24446218 or visit www.sadolinoman.com for more information. 

A Greener Muscat 

As a company, Haya Water is completely committed to serving the needs of Omani 

society in Muscat, by delivering re-used water to benefit communities, individuals and 

businesses across the Muscat Governorate. This way, so much water is saved, which 

serves us in the best of ways. 

Everyone loves walking, especially when the weather gets cooler, and in Ramadan 

many opt to visit the parks of Muscat in the evening to enjoy the fresh breeze and 

cooler weather. The efforts from Haya Water are remarkable, and this Ramadan 

the residents of Muscat are promised to enjoy a ‘Greener’ experience. Haya Water is 

supplying millions of litres of treated water for the watering of plants and trees in the 

Sultanate, as well as all major parks in the capital. 

Haya Water CEO Omar Al Wahaibi, comments on the impact of Haya Water on making Muscat a greener place, saying: “We are delighted that the benefits of our 

project are now helping in a significant way to ensure that Muscat’s open spaces and parks stay green and healthy during Ramadan – a time when so many families 

will go out together in the evening and want to enjoy the cooler weather together at this very special time of the year. Haya Water has developed a water re-use 

project in such a way to ensure that the bulk of the effluent that was treated by our new modern water treatment plants can then be used to help Muscat become 

greener and cleaner. We are delighted to be able to see for ourselves every day in the green areas of the Muscat Governorate how much of an impact our water 

re-use system is having – replacing the need for other scarce or expensive water resources to be used for irrigation purposes.” 

While driving home, don’t you usually see sections of the road in your neighbourhood being dug up? Well, that is because Muscat residents are being connected 

to the new modern system, and no more smelly septic tanks will be required to come and take waste away, from your home or business. 

19

20 


Birkat al-Mouz 

Thoughts & Photography | Jerzy wierzbicki 

I had waited for my trip to Birkat Al-Mouz 

in the Al Dakhliya region for months, and 

finally I found the perfect time last week as I 

required the soft light of late July to capture 

the amazing ruins that dominate the city. This 

beautiful oasis town stands at the feet of Jabal 

Al-Akhdar, just 25 kilometres from Nizwa. The 

town is famed for its masses of date plantations, 

and the town is filled with old mud brick 

houses that remind me of the ruins of ancient 

Babylon in Iraq. There is a footpath that leads 

to the ruins and a stunning Falaj system along 

the way provides fresh water for irrigating the 

surrounding farmland. From the top, you have 

the perfect view of the abandoned village and 

neighbouring farmland, as well as other forts. 

Birkat Al-Mouz is a good place to stop off and 

visit if you are travelling to Jabal Al-Akhdar. 

How to get tHere: 

Take the main road from Muscat to Nizwa 

and at Izki turn right towards Jabal Al Akhdar, 

following the signposts. Birkat Al-Mouz is the 

last village before Jabal Al-Akhdar and the 

total distance from Muscat is around 140km.

Imagination - 

the seed to a blooming tomorrow 

“I wish there had 

been an Imagine 

Cup when I was 

growing up. It 

gets people 

involved in seeing 

that software 

is changing the 

world.” 

- Bill Gates, Chairman, Microsoft 

Technology has always been at the heart of innovation, and Oman has managed to successfully move with the times and equip the new 

generation with the skills and technology needed for continued growth. These youngsters will be the very people to provide the answers 

to the toughest questions Oman may face in the future, and continue the development of the nation, through technology and invention. 

It wasn’t long ago when two promising young Omanis, Osama al Adawi and Salim al Harbi, along with Malik al Kindi as Team Mentor, 

ventured out to New York to participate in Microsoft’s Imagine Cup USA 2011 worldwide competition, where they did their country 

and people proud winning second place in the Digital Media category of the competition. Calling themselves ‛Brothers Forever’, the 

duo were the only Arab team to reach the finals, competing among the best in the world. 

The team were required to develop a series of web videos to portray their own ideas on technology, as well as to generate awareness 

of critical global issues. Brothers Forever first developed a project team video for the semi-final stage of the competition called 

‘Clorofilter for a Green Life’, which showcases a novel invention that can help reduce pollution by filtering smoke and toxins from 

the air. They later went on to develop another project in the final stage called ‘Guide Me’, which was a futuristic concept that allows 

tourists the ability to make their way around a new city with the help of a device that is set up at airports, markets, etc. that loads 

important information about a city. 

22 

Words | Clint Derric egbert

What is the Imagine Cup? 

Now in its tenth year running, Microsoft’s Imagine Cup, since it’s initiation in 2003, has tested and tried students’ capabilities 

to create technological solutions to solve global day-to-day challenges like combating diseases, improving education, 

ensuring environmental sustainability, creating disaster communication systems, helping children read and write, creating 

innovations for people with disabilities, reducing child mortality, and so on. Students aged 16 and over were invited to 

register for the 2011 event in which they use technology to create innovative solutions that can change the world. 

Students not only compete for cash prizes but gain tremendous real life experiences, and most importantly are given the 

opportunity to contribute towards changing the world for the better. 

This year the competition was fierce attracting more than 358,000 students representing 183 countries and regions around 

the world, Oman being one of them. 

Involved in the Imagine Cup student technology competition for its fifth year, the Information Technology Authority (ITA) 

has been devoted to supporting and motivating students to partake in this international competition and is committed to 

continuing to lend its support to students so that they can achieve success and prove their excellence in this significant and 

international IT competition. 

Participation in such a global arena will have a great impact on motivating young Omani talent to produce innovative solutions 

in the field of technology. It will also contribute to raising the level of awareness regarding the significance of use of student 

technology in addition to coming up with innovative technological projects that serve the Omani society. 

23

24 

Y, with the help of Susan Moores, Media and Communications 

Specialist at ITA, managed to arrange an interview with the Omani duo, 

Osama and Salim, to find out more about their recent experiences at 

the Imagine Cup 2011 and their future plans. 

Could you please tell me about your experience at the Imagine 

Cup and what winning second place means to you? 

Osama: It was really a great experience to be a competitor in the 

Imagine Cup this year. I met many people from difference countries 

and made a lot of new friends. I learnt more about Microsoft and 

how to be organised in my work. 

Salim: The Imagine Cup competition was an unforgettable event; we 

had learned a lot every day. We went to the event to compete not to 

participate, and winning second place has changed a lot of things in 

our life, like our plans for the future and what to do next. 

How did you feel when you were announced the second place 

winner? 

Osama: The feeling was indescribable and it was also a great 

opportunity to experience to be at New York’s Lincoln Centre theatre. 

Winning second place and being the first Arabic team to have won 

this prize is a great honour, and I am very pleased with this. 

Salim: When the team name was announced as the second place 

winner it was one of the most unforgettable moments for us. We are 

very happy with the results as this is the first worldwide competition 

for our team. 

Could you fully explain your concept and 

software at the competition? 

Osama: Our project’s name was ‘Guide Me’. We 

made a one minute video in less than 30 hours 

(according to competition rules), that explained a 

device we imagined would exist in the future. This 

device is placed in common places like roads, 

airports, markets etc. You then go and stand in 

front of it and it will then load all the information 

about the city for you. So, this device solves the 

problem that tourists face, especially in New York 

City and also in other cities. We presented our 

project in video format because we were in the 

Digital Media category. We just imagined the 

device, and it may be a reality in the future, who 

knows? 

Salim: For the final round, we were asked to make 

a one minute video about any one of New York 

City’s problems and how to solve it with the help 

of technology. We were given 30 hours to finish 

the project. 

How do you feel your concept can help 

Oman? 

Osama: It will help boost tourism in Oman, as this 

device will make tourists feel almost like citizens, 

equipping them with information like knowing 

where to go, the prices of certain commodities, 

the culture and so much more. 

What encouraged you to participate in the 

event? 

Osama: I want to make a difference in my life. I 

want to improve in Digital Media and do something 

that no one else has done. My family and friends 

have motivated and encouraged me to join this 

competition, and I am very grateful for that.

How long did it take for you to prepare and produce this video? 

Salim: To go to the finals we had to pass Round 1, which consisted of 600 teams, and then we moved on to Round 2, or 

the semi-final round, with 200 teams. Only after winning, then could we compete in the finals, which consisted of the best 6 

teams from all over the world. Upon reaching the finals, we were then given only 30 hours to finish a new video with a brand 

new idea, according to the theme which was announced on the day of the final competition. 

What is the role of a mentor and how did your mentor help you in this competition? 

Osama: Our mentor’s role was to guide us and to choose the best idea for the project. For example, if we have two concepts 

and we don`t know which is the proper one to go with, he is allowed to guide us. However, he isn’t allowed to operate the 

camera or make the sound track or anything related to the video technically. 

What can we expect to see in the future and what other concepts do you’ll have in mind? 

Osama: We will not stop at this point, and we intend to keep progressing in Digital Media. We are planning to make many 

short videos, so expect the unexpected. 

Is there anything that you would like to share with other young talents in the country? 

Osama: I recommend everyone to participate in the Imagine Cup 2011 in Australia if they want to make a change in their life. 

Salim: The Imagine Cup is a very good competition to level up your skills, and I invite and encourage all students and thinkers 

to participate in the Imagine Cup 2012. 

We at Y would like to congratulate Osama, Salim and Sultan Qaboos University for this mammoth achievement and hope to 

see many more young Omanis participate next year at the Imagine Cup 2012 student technology competition, scheduled to 

take place in Australia.

Pretty as a Picture 

Words: Karima Farid Images: Khadija Al Hinai 

26 

The Sultanate of Oman is a country where many 

people have found love, which has later blossomed 

into marriage and a lifetime commitment. Many have 

written novels and memoirs, and have discovered their 

talents that eventually developed into businesses. Each 

week, we speak to different artists and inspirational 

individuals about their journeys in Oman, and how they 

have managed to reach where they are, to inspire others 

to pursue their dreams and ambitions. 

This week we speak to a unique young individual, whose multitasking skills are astonishing. Three years 

ago, when I returned home to Oman after studying abroad, I immediately had my best friend’s wedding to 

attend. I naturally started looking for a make-up artist, a hair stylist and a pretty dress to wear. Luckily, I 

managed to find all three but there’s only one place that I still go back to; the make-up artist. This is her 

first interview and we are proud to present her to readers for the first time with Y.

This make-up artist’s style is simple, and just a year 

ago, at my own wedding, she did my sisters make-up; 

it was gorgeous. I was referred to Khadija Fatahallah Al 

Hinai through friends, and never regretted my choice, 

as she is talented, creative and easy to deal with. 

Khadija currently works as a debt collector during 

the day, but is also a freelance make-up artist and 

photographer. Her loyal customers go to her for makeup 

appointments at Al Ahleeya Salon in Qurum, located 

just by the banking district. Regarding make-up, she has 

been working for marketing projects for companies, 

She says, “I have always been passionate 

about art. I first started painting when I was 

young, and moved onto make-up at a later 

stage. I used to play around with my mom’s 

make-up all the time. I started taking courses 

after school so I could get certified. It actually 

all started when I was at a wedding, when a 

couple of women asked me where I had my 

own make-up done and if I can give them the 

name of the artist. That is when I knew it was 

time to take it seriously, and I did!” 

some of which include OmanMobile, The 

Wave Muscat, National Bank of Oman, and 

also for a couple of fashion shows such as 

Muscat Fashion Week. 

Didi, as her friends call her, was fascinated 

with photography from a very young age. 

Her aunt used to take lots of pictures 

of the family, and Khadija always thought 

about how her aunt managed to capture 

wonderful memories with just the click of a 

button. For Didi, it was not important how 

the picture turned out, but it’s the moments 

and feelings behind it; that is what got her 

interested in photography. 

Didi is currently using a Nikon D90 SLR 

and is enjoying it very much. We ask her 

what makes her different from other 

photographers, and she tells us, “I love 

taking the time to get to know my subject. I 

am not a huge fan of posing for the camera, 

but rather I encourage people to be natural. 

To do that you need to put them at ease 

so they can engage with the camera.” 

Didi would love to work on different projects 

that are challenging. Recently, she tells 

us that she has worked on a video shoot 

for the artist SG, and describes it as “a 

great experience.” She tells us, “I would 

love to work in the theatre and fashion 

shows in Oman and eventually venture 

into the other regions in the Gulf. I enjoy 

capturing moments, whether it is humans, 

animals or nature. I prefer movements and 

expressions, rare moments, because to me 

it is more natural and it tells a story.” 

Every person needs support, and Khadija’s 

support comes from her family and close 

friends. She tells us that her mother is the 

artist in the family so it was only natural 

that she would support her. She adds: 

“My dad (may Allah rest his soul) was a 

great supporter as well. He got me my 

first professional camera. Both my parents 

encouraged me to pursue my dreams. 

During the weekdays, my entire make-up 

appointments are in the evening and I work 

on the weekends especially during the 

wedding season. Photography is usually 

project based so it depends on how long it 

takes and the events that are taking place.” 

Khadija has a message 

for Y readers: “Don’t be 

afraid to do what you love. 

I am blessed that I get to 

do that now. Regardless of 

the hours and hard work I 

have to put in. If you love 

what you’re doing then the 

more you will learn, and 

eventually you will excel.” 

I would like to thank Didi for 

her time, and will surely be 

booking her for both makeup 

and photography very 

soon. To get in touch with 

Khadija, you can email her 

at k.alhinai@live.com. 

27

28 

FLights, Camera 

and Action 

Words | Paul McLoughlin 

Photography | Clint Mclean 

‘Photographer’ is a badge many wear these days, but real photography is much more 

than owning the latest camera and being familiar with a few ‘sleight of hand’ Photoshop 

techniques. Photography itself is an exploration, of capturing scenes often ignored by 

mainstream media by taking risks to return with an image that somehow explains the 

complexed. Clint Mclean may not have seen it all, but he has certainly earned himself a 

reputation of being one of the most exciting new photographers based in the Middle East. 

Not only does the photographer have the ability to capture a scene but his intuitive mind 

sparks the magic that sets the right mood for the pictures. After years of working for some 

of the world’s most illustrious publications, from North America to the UAE’s landmark 

newspaper ‘The National’, Clint has ventured into a new form of photography which should 

set the mark for others to follow. Staging re-enactments of classic folk tales, that uses 

local actors in their pertinent place, Clint has travelled across the world to countries that 

often make headlines for the wrong reasons, to reveal their real fascinating heritage. 

Clint says, “I began photography in 

high school with a yearbook and 

pursued it on my own until I had 

developed a portfolio.” This early 

experiment in photography helped 

him to gain a place in Canada’s 

prestigious polytechnic institute, 

Sheridan College. He says, “Much of 

my formal training at Sheridan was 

from a very commercial perspective 

which taught the fundamentals 

very well. After that, my learning 

was through assisting other 

photographers and living, breathing 

and talking photography day in and 

day out.” He adds, “I combined it 

with working in a photography gear 

rental shop and then with working 

with a Master printer where we 

printed only exhibition and gallery 

quality.” This gave Clint the tools 

to print traditional C prints, which

was to benefit him in his commercial and magazine 

work giving him the fundamental of making prints 

from negatives, and then scanning the images. “It 

was while working late one night in this darkroom 

that I accidentally poured glacial ascetic acid on my 

face and lost my left eye,” he says. 

During this time, he began to develop and work on his 

own artistic style , saying, “I was shooting whenever 

possible. Sometimes it was for modelling agencies 

or for some of the lesser known magazines. As work 

began to pick up I also began teaching photography 

workshops and then launched a magazine about 

art, music and fashion with a few friends.” The 

magazine, HIVE, gave him a platform to develop his 

photography skills, in editing and shooting. 

He says, “Since I had been around the Toronto 

photo-industry for a while at this point, I knew 

many photographers and they were willing to shoot 

for HIVE. Based on the quality of photography the 

magazine was showcasing, I began to be hired as 

a freelance photo editor for major Canadian titles 

such as ‘The Globe’ and ‘Mail’ group of magazines, 

‘Maclean’s’, ‘Profit’ and ‘Dose’.” So successful was 

his freelance career that “As my profile grew, jobs 

became more frequent and more lucrative and 

I was eventually hired as a subcontractor to help 

with some of the editing work that was coming 

in.” After a decade of freelance work, Clint began 

to work as a staff photo editor for ‘The Globe’ and 

‘Mail’ magazine. 

Clint was to get an offer from the other side of 

the world, working with the UAE’s ‘The National’, by 

helping with the launh of their weekly magazine, 'M', 

as well as to develop their website and to edit the 

paper's photo blog. Speaking of the shift he says, “I was interested to move 

to the Middle East because I’m attracted to places that are very different 

from where I grew up. I get bored with knowing what to expect, so moving 

to a region where the language, the culture and religion were all different 

seemed a good remedy for that boredom.” Recently Clint started to work 

freelance again, “I prefer not to spend every day in the office and I needed 

more of an opportunity to shoot my own projects. Currently, I am working 

on exhibition/book projects on salt, fables and Kumari.” His most recent 

photography assignment took him to eastern Ethiopia’s Danakil Desert, 

known to be the hottest place on the planet or otherwise referred to as 

‘the cruellest place on earth’. He’s already travelled to the area twice for 

photography projects, and he hopes to go back another two times this 

year. 

It's safer to say that his style of photography has been fashioned by his 

love for travel, which began when he was 19 hitchhiking across Ireland, 

and camping where he could thanks to a rucksack and a shower curtain 

that shielded his face from the Emerald Island’s torrential rain. After this 

experience, Clint travelled across Europe, through the Balkans and Turkey 

to the Levant. One memorable experience from these travels, he recollects, 

is when he “worked for a while in a kitchen in Turkey and that is a time I 

often think of. We were sleeping about eight people to a room and had a 

woodstove for heat which billowed out so much smoke into the room that 

many nights I thought I may not wake up - but we were in it together and 

I got an insight into some of Turkey’s workers that I never would have had 

otherwise.” He explains, “By combining photography and travel, I gain a bit 

of focus to my trips, rather than sitting for hours and hours in tea houses as 

I used to do. Now I have more purpose to my travels and my shoots force me 

to interact with people and go places in the country I otherwise wouldn’t. 

My photo projects give me access to pieces of the country I wouldn’t ever 

see if I was just going to site see.” He feels this independence has given 

him the freedom to be more adventurous and true to his own creative 

impulses. Clint comments, “My most interesting photography assignments 

are always self assigned projects. It is hard for editorial assignments to 

compete with trips to the hottest place in the world, to recreating Afghan 

fables in the mountains and being squished into the backseat of a car with 

two Shivas as we drive to a famous Nepalese Pottery town.”

One of Clint’s most fascinating independent projects, are shown through 

a portfolio of fascinating journeys across the world to investigate the 

origins of that everyday accompaniment on the dinner table – salt. 

For this assignment he explored the moonscape-like flats of Bolivia 

and depicted workers harvesting salt in Ethiopia. Speaking of the 

experiences he says, “I had a great time sitting on a camel for four 

days in the Sahara - again, mostly in silence since the camel owner and 

I did not speak the same language.” His latest project is staged, but 

equally charming, and similarly motivated by his passion for travel. Clint 

says, “Afghanistan, Ethiopia and Palestine were all trips for ‘The Girl 

Who Married a Snake’ (TGWMAS) project, though I also shot for other 

projects. TGWMAS is a series based on local fables and folktales. In 

various countries, I research local fables and recreate them as a stage 

images using local people, props and costumes. The name of the series 

comes from the first image I shot in the series, which I did in India.” He 

comments on some of his most challenging work of the series saying, 

“In Afghanistan, the shoot involved killing a chicken so the blood in 

the image would look authentic. In Palestine, I needed to find a ‘moon 

faced’ girl who would pretend to be a shepherdess and let me cover her 

face in ash, and in Ethiopia the fable involved four brothers and hyenas. 

All the images are presented as shot - no Photoshop - so the hyenas 

really were moving about the set.” Despite visiting many of the world’s 

‘danger zones’ for this series, he says that he has encountered little 

hostility, yet these experiences have undoubtedly helped to shape him 

as an artist, even if he feels it’s had more of a subtle impact on his own 

character. He comments, “Travel shapes and influences, but it doesn’t 

make you who you are. Of course, seeing people living in hardship and 

poverty makes me appreciate what I have, and probably I am more 

empathetic than I otherwise would be. But I think many lessons are 

subtle and a combination of many things, which travel is one of. One 

clear thing I can say I have definitely learned is that the best macchiatos 

in the world are in Ethiopia.” 

In the future, Clint hopes to launch a photography programme in 

30

Palestine to teach local photographers industry 

standard techniques. “I have always sort of specialised 

in emerging talent and really enjoy working with 

new photographers and helping and watching them 

become great shooters.” He adds, “I don’t really enter 

awards or submit my images to competitions, but I do 

plan to start applying for grants now that I have some 

projects that are grant-worthy.” He has, however, won 

awards as part of his magazine teams, such as ‘Society 

for News Designers’ awards for his work with ‘The 

National’. Clint looks set to stay in the Middle East for 

some time as he says, “I have promised myself I won’t 

leave the region without speaking Arabic, but so far, 

I have been making slow progress... so I guess I may 

be here a while yet.” As an outstanding photographer 

and editor who puts as much effort in promoting other 

emerging photographers’ work as his own, it seems 

that the Middle East will benefit from Clint’s slow pace 

with new languages. One thing that is certain, Clint’s 

images speak for themselves. 

We asked Clint for some tips for upcoming 

photographers who venture to risky destinations 

for their work. Here’s what he had to say: 

Trust your instincts. If you feel like a person or situation is off, 

then change the situation. 

Know your limits. Don’t put yourself in situations you are 

not physically or mentally able to handle if there is no escape 

hatch. 

Pay attention, be aware, but look calm. If you look in control 

and un-phased, whether it is by the chaos, the danger or the 

unknown - you look less like a target. Don’t show fear or panic, 

be calm and speak calm. 

Always travel with strong tape, a sewing kit, a sharp blade and 

Imodium. 

If travelling in especially dangerous or remote places, it is a 

good idea to let someone know where you are going, even if you 

are only heading out on a day-trip. 

If you don’t know what kind of meat you are eating and from 

what part of the animal - don’t ask! 

31

This week, we look at products that a selection of girls I know cannot live without. Whether it is a hair 

straightener or that perfect moisturiser, check out this page for a number of ‘besties’. Some are my own 

and some are readers’ favourites. If you have any beauty products that you have recently tried and liked, 

do let us know so we can share it with our readers at info@y-oman.com 

Fit f l o p 

Every woman needs her very own pair of fitflops, for a quick 

errand or going to and from the gym, or pretty much anytime 

you need to wear them. These are not ‘killer’ heels, and they 

don’t look extremely fancy, but they do give your feet the 

therapy they need. Check out www.fitflops.com to find them. 

With fitflops you will no longer suffer from lower back pain 

and find comfort in running errands. I can’t wait to get my 

hands on their new glittery collection. 

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream 

If you can’t think of anything else to bring on holiday, simply 

throw this product in your bag as it helps with dryness. It 

works for your lips, elbows, and knees and anywhere else 

that can get dry. This product is one for keeps and if you 

have unruly brows you can use this cream for a polished 

look. 

GHD Straightners 

Every girl needs a GHD - and I have my very own since 2008. 

From GHD Gold Series, to GHD IV Styler Collection, and don’t 

forget about the limited edition version - there is so much 

that you can pick from. I own the GHD Gold Classic Styler and 

it is super. As far as I know, the GHD isn’t available in Oman, 

so for more information, visit www.ghdhair.com 

Kerestase hair products 

Does your hair feel dry, damaged, frizzy or dead? Just go 

to hair salons that offer Kerestase treatments and see the 

difference. A simple hair wash with a hair mask will really lift 

your spirits and make your hair feel great. I go to Angel for my 

‘me time’; where do you go for yours? 

Bumpit 

As seen on TV, these cute little hair tools give you a 

fabulous look in no time! Check out www.bumpits. 

com to order your shade, as they come in four 

differemt colours. In Muscat, Bumpits are available 

at Claire’s. Bumpits save on hair products, time, and 

energy and give you an instant, perfect look.

34 

Clint Derric Egbert 

gScreen SpaceBook Dual-screen Laptop 

Just so you don’t believe that you’re hallucinating, I assure 

you that you are actually seeing a laptop with two screens. 

This gScreen SpaceBook Dual-screen Laptop is something 

that I’m sure everyone will want to add to their workstation. 

Equipped with two 17.3 inch screens, a quad-core Intel 

Core i7-740M processor, 8GB of RAM, as well as a NVIDIA 

GeForce GTS 250M video card, this baby is truly a work 

of genius. The device does weigh slightly more than the 

average laptop, and can prove heavy on the pocket too, 

priced at $2,795 (1,076 rials). But I still believe that this will 

be a popular product among comp-geeks around the globe. 

For more information, go to www.gizmodo.com. 

Cyber Snipa Sonar Portable Mini Speaker 

I’ve always believed that you should never judge a book by its cover, and 

if there is anything that can justify that belief it would be the Cyber Snipa 

Sonar Portable Mini Speaker. Even though it's small in size, this bad boy 

can belt out some seriously big sound. Working on a rechargeable lithium 

battery, the Sonar can work for up to four hours non-stop before it requires 

recharging again. It can easily connect to almost any device with the use 

of its 3.5mm audio jack and is priced at a very reasonable $29.95 (11.5 

rials). For more information, go to www.cybersnipa.com.

Jawbone’s Up wristband 

Mario Memory 

If you’re looking for something to exercise your memory, or 

your child’s for that matter, then the Mario Memory game is 

exactly what you’re looking for. This video game is designed 

to allow multiple player participation and it’s a great way to 

bringing family and friends together. Priced at $15.99 (6.2 

rials) Mario Memory can also be played against the computer, 

in case there is no one else to battle it out with. So go ahead 

and challenge your memory, with the 54 chance cards 

showcasing your favourite Mario characters and scenes, 

it’s a very productive way to spend your free time. For more 

information, go to www.thinkgeek.com. 

The key to losing or maintaining a healthy weight and keeping fit depends 

on the kind of diet you keep, and in this day and age, with unpredictable 

working schedules, it’s difficult to keep track of what you eat. So, in order 

to help control the amount of calories you consume in a day, Jawbone’s 

Up wristband has stepped up to make sure you eat right. Designed with 

sensors and wireless connectivity to a Smartphone App or Android, the 

device tracks the amount of calories you intake when eating thanks to 

its in-built accelerometer. It’s uncertain how precise the device is, but I 

guess there is only one way to find out. For more information on the Up 

wristband, go to www.dvice.com 

Join the BlackBerry Brigade 

With the entire world going gaga over BlackBerry and its services, Oman doesn’t 

intend to hold back, in particular Oman Mobile, the telecommunications arm of 

Omantel. Recently announcing an exciting number of discounts on BlackBerry devices, 

Oman Mobile intend to increase their number of subscribers and provide current users 

with the benefits of the massively widespread and superfast Blackberry network. 

Discounts offered on the devices include the BlackBerry (Torch) 9800 from 250 rials 

to just 215 rials, the BlackBerry (Bold) 9780 from 210 rials to 170 rials, BlackBerry 

(Curve) 9300 from 120 rials to 110 rials and the (Pearl) 9105 is now available for just 

95 rials, a significant discount from its previous price of 130 rials. 

Oman Mobile have also increased the advantages for subscribers by developing a 

number of superb summer schemes that provide BlackBerry services for Hayyak pre-paid 

customers with extended usage from 10MB to 30MB, and the BlackBerry light service for 

Mada postpaid customers with increased usage capacity from 50MB to 100MB. 

To avail of these exciting offers, customers have 

to simply subscribe to the BlackBerry services 

with Oman Mobile by sending an SMS to 90003; 

remember to type the word “BlackBerry” or “BB” 

in the SMS before sending it. 

For more information, log on to www.omantel.om 

or call on 24244658. 

35

36 

Words Clint Derric Egbert 

A Sporting Summer 

The Ministry of Sports’ 6th annual ‘Summer of Sport’ event is running in full flow and is scheduled to 

continue until July 30th. The programme allows young sports enthusiasts in the country the opportunity 

to participate in various sporting activities and provides coaching and training to people of all ages. It is 

also a great way to spend the summer holidays, and a productive learning experience for budding sport 

aficionados. 

Key sponsor for the event was BankDhofar, who are also active in supporting other sport events that 

take place at the Sultan Qaboos Complex, such as Badminton, Basketball, Gymnastics and Athletics. 

Abdul Hakeem Omar Al Ojaili, General Manager Corporate Service in BankDhofar says: “Sport plays a 

very important part in the health and wellbeing of our youth and at BankDhofar we strongly believe in the 

development of the youth. We are delighted to be a key sponsor of the ‘Summer of Sport’ programme and 

we look forward to cheering on our young sports stars as they foster and develop their talents.” 

The programme has be a grand success thus far and will continue till the end of the month, intending to 

attract more that 70,000 people to the programme. We at Y encourage sports enthusiasts to avail of this 

great opportunity to brush up on their sporting skills. 

Concluding, Ojaili said, “As part of our Corporate and Social Responsibility, the Bank is very keen to see 

young people become involved in community events such as this one and we commend the Ministry for 

Sports Affairs for taking the lead on this annual initiative.”

Drifting to 

the Finals 

After months of drifting, as the dust from spinning 

and screeching tyres settles, Saudi drifter Said 

Al Mouri stands tall in Beirut, after clinching the 

‘Middle East King of Drift’ title to become the 

Champion of Drifting in the gulf region 

As thousands of motorsports aficionados gathered at the 

Beirut yards to witness the grand finals of the Red Bull Car 

Park Drift, and with drivers in top form, it was only certain 

that they were in for one of the best displays of drifting action 

ever. 

“A great organisation and awesome set-up is what 

we lived today. I am proud to have raised the flag of 

my country in this highly competitive race.” 

Said Al Mouri 

With 14 skilled participants representing 14 countries, 

including KSA, UAE, Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, Bahrain, 

Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Iran, and Lebanon, the competition was 

stiff and thoroughly exciting. Pilots enthralled the audience 

with supreme drifting skills, weaving around bends displaying 

phenomenal control and precision. But it was Mouri and his 

Chevrolet Lumina that collected the maximum points in the 

competition after his sheer brilliant performance throughout 

the tournament. 

The Minister of Youth and Sports HE Faysal Karami, too, had a 

taste of the speed and thrill of drifting when he occupied the 

passenger seat next to speed race champion Abdo Feghali 

who was also the brain behind the specially designed drifting 

track. 

“Tonight, the Middle East was tuned online and on TV to watch 

the best 14 participants in the region compete in one of the 

largest drifting events the world over. I thank His Excellency 

Mr. Karami for his great patronage. 

Special recognition goes also to the 

ATCL officials for their contribution as 

well as our valued sponsors without 

whom the event would not have been the 

same,” said Alberto Chahoud, Regional 

Communications Manager for Red Bull. 

After three months of racing that started 

in Kuwait on April 22nd, the Red Bull Car 

Park Drift came to a blazing finish in the 

Lebanese capital recently. The event 

attracted more than 10,000 spectators 

and I personally can’t wait for the next 

round of drifting. 

Top 3 winners of the Red Bull Car 

Park Drift 

1. Said Al Mouri 

Chevrolet Lumina (KSA) 

2. Firas Khaddaj 

BMW (Lebanon) 

3. Garo Haroutiounian 

BMW (Lebanon) 

37

38 

MOU Signing Ceremony at Hyatt 



39

40 

Omanoil Kids Event 



41

42 

Intex Launch at Emax 



Launch of Nokia N9 Event 

43

Download your FREE copy at www.y-oman.com 

NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA, ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR! 

Ayman Canawati 

ayman.canawati@sabcomedia.com 

Feroz Khan 

Tel. 97768900 

feroz.khan@sabcomedia.com 

McDonald’s 

Sudipto Mojumder 

Tel. 94051770 

sudipto.mojumder@sabcomedia.com


SUDOKU 

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each 

row across, each column down and each small 9-box square 

contains all of the numbers from one to nine. 

Go Figure 

The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the 

bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following 

the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, form 

left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below 

the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of 

the nine numbers only once. 

45

SOLUTIONS 

CrOSSWOrD 

each week we are asking our readers to take part in a topical discussion 

via Y magazine's facebook page. 

Join the group and you might see your comments printed in next week's 

issue! 

This week: 

Where do you plan to spend Iftar, this Ramadan? 

rahma al-maskari 

Home 

Younis alanqoudi 

mostly home, but I have plans to have Iftar with friends by the beach sometimes. 

reem elkashlan 

home and may be out on the weekend 

Samira harib al maskry 

I’ll be at the mosque listening to the lectures about Ramadan & reciting the Holy Quran. 

Ramadan is a time of reflecting, believing and worshiping God. Ramadan is also a time when 

Muslims are to slow down from worldly affairs and focus on self-reformation, spiritual cleansing 

and enlightenment; this is to establish a link between themselves and God through prayer, 

supplication, charity, good deeds, kindness and helping others. Since it is a festival of giving 

and sharing, Muslims prepare special foods and buy gifts for their family and friends and for 

giving to the poor and needy who cannot afford it; this can involve buying new clothes, shoes 

and other items of need. There is also a social aspect involving the preparation of special foods 

and inviting people for Iftar. 

SUDOkU 

gO FigUre

Y - Issue 180 - July 26, 2011 - Y-Oman

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