Blog Feed: Bahrain News

Oil prices and volatility in the oil market continue to haunt in absence of production increase

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Oil prices and volatility in the oil market are likely to remain strong in the absence of clear production increases. If supply conditions do improve, the tentative ‘beginning of the end’ of the near decade-long energy bull-market could be at han > read more

European football market grows to €16.3 billion

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Despite significant economic headwinds, the European football market grew by 4%, €0.6 billion in revenue terms, to €16.3 billion in 2009/10, according to Deloitte. In its latest report, Deloitte said, all of Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues repo > read more

Court adjourns murder case of Pakistani Abdulla Malik Abdulla

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The first Lower National Safety Court On Thursday heard a number of criminal cases, the Military Prosecutor in a statement posted by the BNA said. In the first case, fifteen suspects stood trial again over charges of murdering the Pakistani national > read more

HM King Hamad congratulates Shaikh Nasser

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander of Bahrain Defence Force, received at Safriya Palace, in the presence of his personal representative Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and > read more

Interior Ministry’s Mohammed Saleh hoists Bahraini-Saudi flags at the world’s tallest mountain

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Interior Ministry’s General Directorate of Guards’ Affiliate Corporal Mohammed Saleh waved the flags of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia at top of the Himalayas as a token of love and loyalty to the Kingdom and its wise leadership and an expression of gr > read more

Dr Mirza reviews the status of Energy Centre to be set-up in Manama

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Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza hailed cooperation between the energy sector in Bahrain and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with regard to setting up a centre for energy planning and conservation in the Kingdom. The Mi > read more

Tourism sector in Bahrain is on the rebound

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The tourism sector in Bahrain is getting back to normal with a major surge in inbound tourism being witnessed by the Kingdom, thanks to the efforts of bringing the stability back to normal. Assistant Under-secretary for Exits, Research and Follow up > read more

Interior Minister receives Al Koohji family

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Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa received members of Al Koohji family, led by dignitary Abdulhameed Al Koohiji and MP Isa Al Koohiji. The Interior Minister hailed the key role played by Al Koohiji family in b > read more

US reaffirms its support to Bahrain’s stability

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The US Administration reaffirmed its support for Bahrain’s stability. US Vice President Joe Biden voiced his country’s supportive stance as he received at the White House His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Dep > read more

Bahrain withdraws from the F1 Grand Prix 2011 race

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The Kingdom of Bahrain, the pioneer circuit for the F1 Grand Prix in the Middle East, on Friday said that it fully respects the FIA decision about the cancellation of the rescheduled October 30th race in Bahrain. “Whilst Bahrain would have been del > read more

HM King Hamad welcomes residents of Riffa

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa received at Al-Rawdha Palace residents from Riffa region as part of Royal keenness to reach out to all areas of Bahrain. HM the King’s Personal representative Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al-Khalifa and Shaikh > read more

Lower National Safety Court adjourns six cases

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The first Lower National Safety Court heard six criminal cases, the Military Prosecutor said. In the first case, Abbas Hassan Ali Malallah stood trial over charges of attempted murder and taking part in illegal protests. The hearing was adjourned to > read more

Tourism sector can stimulate the economic activity: BCCI Chief

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Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Dr. Essam Abdulla Fakhro called upon the need to intensify tourist functions in the coming period in order to take advantage of the summer season. Dr. Fakhro stressed that tourist media > read more

HRH Prince Salman attends Shaikh Nasser’s graduation

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander attended the graduation of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of the Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa from the Joint > read more

Dr Mirza holds talks with CEO of Caspian Energy

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Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussein bin Ali Mirza held talks with the Chief Executive Officer of the Caspian Energy Consulting Company, Rob Sobhani. Dr. Mirza welcomed Sobhani and discussed with him issues related to energy consulting, as well as the N > read more

Religious dialogue is a key to bridge the social gaps

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The undersecretary for Islamic Affairs at the Ministry of Justice, Islamic and Endowment Affairs Dr Fareed bin Yacoub Al Muftah who headed Bahrain’s delegation participating at the International Religions Dialogue in Hungary affirmed that the confe > read more

Eye on Earth Summit to catalyze global support for enhanced environmental decision making

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Abu Dhabi will host the first Eye on Earth Summit in December in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The Summit will focus on the issue of greater access to environmental and societal data. Over the past ten years, Abu D > read more

Minister Energy chairs Tatweer petroleum board meeting

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Dr. Abdul-Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy and Chairman of National Oil and Gas Authority chaired the seventh meeting of the Board of Directors with representatives from Occidental, Mubadala and Nogaholding companies as members of the Board. > read more

StandChart holds Thought Leadership Conference in Egypt

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Standard Chartered organised its First Thought Leadership Conference in Cairo, Egypt. Standard Chartered’s Thought Leadership Conference was attended by Senior Bankers representing the various financial institutions operating in Egypt. The Conferen > read more

Government Commission will present its report on civilian deaths on Feb 14

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Deputy Prime Minister Jawad Salem Al Arrayed and head of the special panel that was formed to find out the reasons that led to events of 14th of February 2011, declared that the committee will continue its work to find out the reasons and circumstanc > read more

Shaikh Khalid receives EU expert

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Supreme Council for Youth and Sport first deputy chairman and Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Khalifa received European Commission experts Dr. Sfano Sutiji, Dr Penoint Svorsi and Dr. Fusail, who arrived in > read more

UNCHR delegation to visit Bahrain to assess and review the situation

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Bahrain Government delegation and the United Nation High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNCHR) during a meeting in Geneva on June 3 discussed the recent deplorable unrest which gripped the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was stated by the Social Development > read more

Tamkeen and GOYS join hands for Youth City 2030

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Under the patronage of Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, GOYS andTamkeen sealed an agreement paving the way for Youth City 2030 for the second consecutive year this month. This comes as pa > read more

Shaikh Abdulla visits Kanoo family

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His Majesty’s personal representative Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al-Khalifa visited Kanoo Majlis on Tuesday as part of ongoing efforts aimed at recognizing the help and support of Bahraini citizen during the recent challenging times. He conveyed Roya > read more

Organisers review Bahrain Air Show arrangements

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The high organizing committee of Bahrain International Air Show (BIAS) 2012 convened under the chairmanship of Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa and in the presence of Farnborough International Ltd, the organizing company. Discussions focused on p > read more

Dr Mirza reviews Bahrain-Thai ties

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Energy Minister Dr. Abul Hussain bin Ali Mirza received Thai Ambassador to Bahrain Vichai Varasirikul. During the meeting, Dr. Mirza praised the solidity of the joint relations, and expressed his keenness on the joint cooperation and coordination in > read more

HM King’s media advisor receives Dr. Ali Fuladh

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His Majesty the King’s Advisor for Media Affairs Nabil bin Yaqoob Al Hamer received Dr. Ali Fuladh who presented him with his new publication on pottery, ceramics and gypsum industry in Bahrain. He praised the book which sheds light on some Bahrain > read more

Court adjourns cases of Bahrain Teachers Association

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The first Lower National Safety Court today adjourned the case of Mahdi Isa Abu Dheeb and Jalila Mohammed Ridha Al Salman, from the Bahrain Teachers Society, to June 15, the Military Prosecutor in a statement said. The suspects pleaded not guilty for > read more

Iqra Library opens its door with the help of BBK

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With the generous support of BBK Iqra 2, the second branch of Iqra Library located in Malkeya in the house of the former mayor of Malkeya Village was opened at an event held at the venue. The Board of Trustees of Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalif > read more

Bahrain keen on enhancing co-operation with Kazakhstan in Banking and Finance

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HRH Premier’s Advisor for Economic Affairs Abdulla Hassan Saif on Tuesday said that the Kingdom of Bahrain would explore the various avenues of co-operation with Kazakhstan in the Banking and Finance sector. Saif, who is representing the Kingdom at > read more

Unisono Bahrain appoints Head of Digital

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Unisono, Bahrain’s leading independent full-service agency announced the appointment of Ollie Hunt as Head of Digital, responsible for digital and social media strategies focusing on accountable and effective return on investment for our clients. H > read more

Shaikh Abdulla lauds UNIDO role

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His Majesty the King’s Personal Representative President of the Authority of Marine, Environment and Wildlife Protection Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa praised the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), for their efforts > read more

Bahrain gets bulk supply of 4500 tonnes Cement on Monday

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On the directives of the Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr Hassan Fakhro to ensure the supply of cement in the Kingdom, 6500 tonnes of cement pumped into the market. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce said that the step > read more

Interior Minister draws public attention on unlawful rallies

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Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla A-Khalifa issued edict 57 for 2011 stipulating the duties and responsibilities of the committee in charge of organising meetings, marches and rallies. “The panel’s prerogatives are st > read more

HM King Hamad reiterates support to national reforms

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa reaffirmed his strong resolve to pursue the ongoing national reforms agenda. “We will continue the march of reform and build on the achievements of the last ten years”, he said. He pointed out that the si > read more

MP Othman Sharif gets representation at ILO

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa sent a cable of congratulations to MP Othman Sharif Al-Rayees marking his election in Geneva as representative of the East Asian countries of the International Labour Organisation > read more

Police Chief reports unlawful rallies on Sunday

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Head of Public Security Brigadier Tariq bin Mubarak bin Dayna in a statement said that small groups broke the law on Sunday exploiting Imam Al Hadi mourning ceremony to conduct rallies in which violating political slogans were chanted in some areas o > read more

Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad continues to visit to Bahraini families

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The personnel representative of His Majesty the King, Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa continued his interaction with citizens in different areas in the Kingdom through his visits to families in various governorates. Shaikh Abdullah paid a visit > read more

SCW Chairwoman will patronize RUW graduation

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Under the Patronage of the wife of His Majesty the King and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa a graduation ceremony for the 3rd batch of the Royal University for Women (RUW) > read more

Bahraini court awards life sentence in a murder case

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The High Criminal Court sentenced the killer of handball player Saeed Jawhar’s brother to lifetime in jail. The crime was committed last September 10, during Eid Al Fitr, when the 44-year-old victim was stabbed to death during a quarrel with the cu > read more

SULB keen on investing $3b to $5b in mining sector: Chairman SULB

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Bahrain-based world’s first integrated steel company United Steel Company (SULB) said that it was negotiating with four companies seeking to invest between $3 billion to $5 billion in the mining industry. Khalid Al-Qadeeri, Chairman and Managing Di > read more

National Dialogue will be a great healing process for all: Dr Mirza

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The Minister of Energy Dr Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza affirmed that the national dialogue initiative launched by the country’s monarch during his meeting with journalists and media personnel last week had regained trust within us and our country. Dr > read more

Shaikha Mai visits Armitage museum at St. Petersburg

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As part of her visit to Russia and efforts towards reinforcing cultural relations the Minister of Culture Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa conducted a visit to “The wonders of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia archaeology over the centuries” > read more

Cabinet pledges to make the National Dialogue a great success

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s directives requesting the Executive and Legislative branches to call for an unconditional National Dialogue was welcomed by the cabinet, said the Cabinet Affairs Minister Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed followin > read more

National Unity gets deep-rooted after the recent crisis: HRH Premier

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa stressed that national unity has grown stronger after the recent events. “Targeting national unity will further cement it for there is no way but co-existence. Therefore, al > read more

KFH-B supports Think Pink Bahrain

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain’s (KFH-B) Ahl Alata’a network announced its support of Think Pink Bahrain’s initiative to install a state-of-the-art MRI scanning facility to assist the Salmaniya Medical Complex in their fight against breast canc > read more

Al Baraka Bank Tunis appoints new GM

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Al Baraka Bank Tunis, a subsidiary banking unit of Bahrain-based Al Baraka Banking Group BSC (ABG), has announced the appointment of Fraj Zaag as General Manager of the Bank Zaaq, a Tunisian nationality, has a Bachelor in Accounting and he is Charter > read more

Elie & Jean signs up with Majaal as new tenant

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First Bahrain, an innovative real estate developer, has signed a new tenancy agreement for its flagship project Majaal Warehouse Company. Elie & Jean Hair Products Accessories Co., the marketing arm of Elie & Jean International Hairdressing > read more

Batelco Human Resources gets GCC acclamation

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Batelco, Bahrain’s leading telecommunications company has won the annual GCC Human Capital Award for Best Talent Management at the 3rd Annual GCC HR Excellence Awards 2011, which took place recently in Dubai. The 3rd Annual GCC HR Excellence Awards > read more

Zain Bahrain brings “No Limits” offer

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Zain Bahrain has pushed the boundaries of telecoms promotions to another height by launching its “No Limits!” promotion. This offer provides a very exciting proposition whereby all Zain customers can make free calls and send free SMS’s to all Z > read more

China welcomes HM King Hamad’s call for national dialogue

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s call for a comprehensive National Dialogue next July 1 has been welcomed by China. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Hong Lei also lauded the kingdom’s dec > read more

Bahrain emerges even stronger after unrest: Foreign Minister

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Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa on Saturday said the Kingdom of Bahrain emerged even stronger after a lull of protests in the recent past. Shaikh Khalid expressed these views during a meeting with the US Congressman D > read more

UN got wrong feeds on Bahraini situation: Un Official

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A UN top official recognized misinformation being fed about the Kingdom of Bahrain. “Certain information which we received about the developments in Bahrain were untrue”, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem (Navi) Pillay, said. She m > read more

bni unveils e-cargo marine insurance service

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Bahrain National Insurance (bni), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bahrain National Holding Company, has launched its e-cargo service via its web-portal www.bnidirect.com. The service comes as part of bni’s commitment to its clients in providing innova > read more

Oman’s $10b tourism development co Omran eyes Sharjah

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With a portfolio of over $10 billion Omran, the Oman Government’s leading tourism-related investment, development and management company held talks with Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and exploring avenues of co-operation. S > read more

MEET ICT 2011 opens on June 20 in Bahrain

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The eGovernment Authority signed a strategic partnership agreement for the MEET ICT 2011 conference entitled “The Convergence of ICT Leaders” which will be held under the patronage of Kamal Bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Cabinet Affairs on the 2 > read more

Manara to add BD3m phase II and III for Tubli Gardens

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With Tubli Gardens project is proceeding ahead of schedule and more than 35% of the first phase is already completed, Manara plans to launch the phases II and III, according to Dr. Hasan Al-Bastaki, Managing Director Manara Development. “We affirm > read more

Bahrain’s Health Minister Dr Al Balooshi highlights the traumatic impact of the riots on children

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Social Development Minister and Acting Health Minister Dr. Fatima Al-Balooshi highlighted the impact of the recent unrest on children during a forum. Officials representing the Educational Ministry, the Public Prosecution, the Social Development Mini > read more

Police officers are capable of handling the situation with extreme caution: DG Police

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The police officers are capable of handling the various situations with extreme caution when dealing with lawbreakers, according to Director General of the Capital Police Directorate Brigadier Naji Al Hashil. In a statement published by the Bahrain N > read more

Bahrain highlights violence targeting schools

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Bahrain’s efforts to ensure educational services for students and promote their rights and the attempts to drag the schools into violence took a center stage at the UN Headquarters in Geneva. Education Ministry’s media spokesperson Lubna Slaibeek > read more

US Air Force, Pak Air Force to participate in joint exercise

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US Air Force jet-fighters landed at Isa Airbase and will participate in the 2012 Basic Liaison Drill, which is being organized by Bahrain Defense Force (BDF) from April 8 to 18. Pakistan Air Force will also particiapte in these excercises [...] > read more

Cabinet endorses 3000 housing Units initiative

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa chaired at Gudaibiya Palace the cabinet regular weekly meeting gave the go-ahead to the first phase of the housing project in the northern city where the construction of 500 [...] > read more

Aker Solutions to deliver 600 sets of surface wellheads

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Aker Solutions has been awarded a contract by Enerserv W.L.L to deliver 600 sets of surface wellheads and trees to the Awali Oilfield in Bahrain. This is the first surface wellhead contract won by Aker Solutions in Bahrain, which marks [...] > read more

SAMA deposits to reach$700b by 2013: Fitch

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Government deposits at the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA, the central bank), which rose by $52billion or 9% of GDP in 2011, are set to reach$700 billion by 2013, according to Fitch Ratings. Fitch Ratings has also affirmed Saudi Arabia’s [...] > read more

Bahrain announces F1 Grand Prix Visa procedures

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All is set to host Gulf Air Formula 1 Grand Prix between20-22 April 2012 as passengers can only use this visa for entry into Bahrain from 7th April to 22nd April 2012, both days inclusive. The F1 visa is valid [...] > read more

Bahrain will not tolerate any foul play

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The Public Prosecution warned that it would not tolerate any breach of the law or foul play targeting state establishments and the parties that support the economy of these enterprises. This came as Public Prosecutor Dr. Ali bin Fadhl Al-Buainain [...] > read more

HRH Premier issues directives to open new economic zones

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa chaired an economic meeting to discuss ways of reinvigorating the Kingdom’s economic and financial situation amid current challenges. This comes as part of the government’s economic strategy and keen [...] > read more

Thugs attack police patrols with fire bombs

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A group of vandals attacked two on-duty police patrols with Molotov cocktails, the Director General of the Central Governorate Police Directorate said. “Investigations are underway to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he added. The two police cars [...] > read more

Bahrain remains committed to greater reforms

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Bahrain showed its commitment to reforms by implementing the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) recommendations. Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa voiced the stance as he received a US Congress delegation, in the presence of [...] > read more

Reforms process will continue: HK King Hamad

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received at Safriya Palace Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and several organization officials along with mothers and orphans. The [...] > read more

One to One Hotel – the Village becomes latest business partner to join Etihad Guest Loyalty

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Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty programme from Etihad Airways, has announced a new partnership with Abu Dhabi’s unique boutique property One to One Hotel – the Village. The new partnership allows Etihad Guest members to earn Etihad Guest > read more

JDC announces the sale of its stake in Jordan’s CEGCO

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Jordan Dubai Capital (JD Capital), an investment company based in Amman, whose largest shareholders are Dubai International Capital and the Social Security Corporation of Jordan, announced the sale of its controlling stake in the Central Electricity > read more

Fitch assigns Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank ‘A+’; outlook stable

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Fitch Ratings has assigned Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) a long-term foreign currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of ‘A+’ with a stable outlook, short-term IDR of ‘F1′, individual rating of ‘C/D’, and support ra > read more

Varicent becomes fastest growing companies in Canada

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Varicent Software Incorporated, the leading innovator and provider of incentive compensation and sales performance management (SPM) solutions, announced today that it has ranked 4th in the 23rd annual PROFIT 200 ranking of Canada’s Fastest-Growing > read more

Lower Safety Court adjourns cases

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The Lower National Safety Court has adjourned the hearing of the case of Ayat Hassan Mohammed to June 6, announced the Military Prosecutor. During the hearing, Ayat Hassan, who was tried over taking part in illegal protests for criminal ends and inci > read more

Minister of Culture signs agreement with Russia

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Within the framework of cultural cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Russia and with a request from the Russian Culture Ministry the Minister of Culture Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa conducted a visit to Moscow during which she met > read more

No political prisoners in Bahraini jails: Justice Minister

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The Minister of Justice Islamic Affairs and Endowments Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa denied the existence of any political prisoner or prisoner of opinion in jail stressing that those apprehended were those who had committed criminal actions and a > read more

HM King visits BDF General Command

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the BDF Supreme Commander, visited the BDF General Command, accompanied by his personal representative Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa. He was received by BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Kha > read more

Philippines government lifts travel ban to Bahrain

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The Philippines government has lifted a travel ban to Bahrain following assuring reports from its embassy that life has turned back to normal, the Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain Corazon Yap-Bahjin told Bahrain News Agency. The Kingdom’s efforts t > read more

Police denies death due to tear gas inhaler

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Capital Governorate Police Director denied news by Al Jazeera that 69-year-old Zeinab Ali Ahmed died of inhaled tear bomb gas. Medical reports have proved that she was suffering from a chronic heart disease, he said adding that her children claimed t > read more

France backs HM King’s call for National Dialogue

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa’s call to engage a national dialogue on July1 has today won international support. France voiced its support for the dialogue between all Bahraini sections to address the Kingdom’s problems. The French Fo > read more

IAA Chief forms a committee to oversee the Media Centre

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Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa issued an edict establishing a committee in charge of the media centre. IAA international relations advisor Shaikh Abdulaziz bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa will chair the panel, whi > read more

BDF C-in-C praises professionalism of forces

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The Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa paid an inspection visit to one of BDF’s units in Manama where he was received by senior BDF officers. During the visit, Shaikh Khalifa asse > read more

Bahrain Arab model for SME development becomes a global benchmark

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Bahrain Arab model for entrepreneurship for the SME development has emerged as a global benchmark with over three dozen countries already replicated the model for start-up businesses. The Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro who honoured > read more

Increasing capital spending spurs Europe’s economic recovery, S&P report

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The surge in private sector capital spending that took hold last year in most of Europe’s economies should broaden in the coming 18 months as demand picks up and corporate profitability continues to improve, according to Standard & Poor > read more

Etihad signs MoU with Falcon Aviation

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Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Falcon Aviation Services to add the Abu Dhabi-based helicopter charter service to the growing portfolio of preferred partnerships in > read more

Bahrain launches major initiative to monitor and control vessels traffic

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The General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) on Wednesday announced the launch of a major initiative to secure and maintain Bahrain’s sovereignty in its territorial waters. The GOP announced the deployment of a new initiative to control and supervis > read more

Naseej’s shareholders back affordable housing projects in Bahrain

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Naseej, the major realty developer, on Wednesday said its shareholders endorsed the Company’s strategic priority to address the affordable housing needs of the Kingdom of Bahrain. This was announced after the second annual general meeting of Naseej > read more

Emerging market’s telecom operators to tap into $200b ICT opportunity

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With information and communications technology (ICT) becomes a $3 trillion industry globally, emerging markets’ telecom operators are set to tap into $200 billion ICT opportunity, according to a report. Delta Partners, the leading telecoms advi > read more

Zain Bahrain network enhancement takes place on Saturday

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Zain Bahrain will be carrying out a major upgrade on its network as part of its continuous efforts to provide the best mobile telecommunications service to its customers. This will take place on Saturday, June 4, 2011. This enhancement process is exp > read more

GFH swings back to black with net profit of $11.9m in Q1

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Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House (GFH) said on Tuesday it swung back to the black in its fiscal first quarter reporting a net profit of $11.9million as compared to $7.5million loss for the same period last year. The bank in a statement announcing fin > read more

Expert urges GCC to reestablish large investment portfolios to fund vital projects

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There is a need for the GCC to pool together huge investment portfolios to fund the ongoing and upcoming common vital projects, according to an economist. “Such investment portfolio becomes more relevant in light of the ongoing soaring competit > read more

HM King renews the call for a National Dialogue in July

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HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Tuesday called upon all segments of the society to participate in the National Dialogue in July to deliberate on all national issues without preconditions. “Dialogue is a national strategic choice to reach the re > read more

Gulf Air reduces carbon emissions by 20000 tons during 2010

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Bahrain’s National carrier Gulf Air, in its continuous efforts towards improving the environment in which it operates, today outlined its corporate social responsibility (CSR) plan and initiatives for 2011. Building on the airline’s existing CSR > read more

VIVA Bahrain brings Manchester United at the doorstep of 33 young footballers

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VIVA Bahrain, the official partner of Manchester United, is looking for 33 of Bahrain’s best young footballers to travel to the Manchester United Soccer School in the UK to live, train and play the United Way. Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman Al-Omar, CEO o > read more

Luck rings in for four May winners of Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign

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Four lucky winners for the month of May went home with new BlackBerry and Samsung handsets, thanks to their green action of disposing their old and unusable mobile phone safely under the ongoing Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campai > read more

Jet Airways partners with AACO

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Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, has joined AACO as the first Partner Airline of this regional airline association. The partnership which was simultaneously announced in Beirut and Mumbai will provide the Jet Airways and the Arab > read more

HRH Premier pays rich tribute to Bahraini citizens

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa paid tribute to Bahraini citizens for their unity and patriotic stances. HRH Prime Minister received members of the Supreme Committee of the National Unity Gathering led by Dr. Sh > read more

The Lower National Safety Court heard four cases

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In the first case, in which nine people were accused of severing the tongue of an Asian Mo’azzin, spoiling public money , breaking into a house and inciting violent attacks, the court handed over the lawyers the case documents and allowed them > read more

Defending the Kingdom remains a top priority of the BDF: Commander-in-Chief

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BDF Commander-in-Chief Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, who chaired on Monday the National Safety Council’s 12th meeting, said that defending the Kingdom would remain an inherent duty of the BDF. He extended thanks and gratitude to > read more

Bahrain implements the WHO Convention on Tobacco: Dr Al Balushi

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The Minister of Social Development and Acting Minister of Health Dr Fatima Al Balushi said that Bahrain would remain fully committed to implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Dr Al Balushi addressed in her speech mar > read more

Bahrain announces schedule for the bye- elections

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The Minister of Justice and Islamic Affairs issued resolution No. 19 for the year of 2011 on appointing the dates for the bye elections of the House of Representatives constituencies concerned. According to article I Voters whom names are recorded on > read more

Bahrain plans 12 new power stations

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The Kingdom has, so far this year, set up three power generation projects in Mgaba, Salmabad and North of A’ali, with a total cost of BD 15 million. It was announced Energy Minister Dr Abdul Hussein bin Ali Mirza, noting that the country is plannin > read more

Cessation Court receives death penalty cases

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The General Secretary of the Supreme Council of Judiciary Affairs announced that the Court of Cassation’s Technical Office received the case number 75/2011 regarding the execution rule from the National Safety Court of Appeal where the case will un > read more

BNP Paribas CEO Baudouin Prot meets top leadership during historic visit to Qatar

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Baudouin Prot, Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas, one of the strongest banks in the world, met with the top leadership during his visit to Qatar on Monday. The visit included private meetings with His Highness, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, > read more

IDB eyes Jordan’s mega rail project

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The Islamic Development Bank (IDB), is currently studying Jordan’s mega rail project with a view to garnering international financial support to the project the total cost of which is estimated at $45 billion. Once it becomes reality, the project i > read more

Bahrain’s residential market faces deficit

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Despite an overall positive outlook, Bahrain’s residential market to witness substantial undersupply in the affordable homes segment as developers continue to focus on the premium segment of the market, according to Alpen Capital. In terms of residential market, the report [...] > read more

IIFM and ISDA launch Profit Rate Swap

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Bahrain-based the International Islamic Financial Market (IIFM) and the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (ISDA) have announced the launch of the ISDA/IIFM Mubadalatul Arbaah (Profit Rate Swap) product standard to be used for Islamic hedging purposes. The Mubadalatul Arbaah [...] > read more

Pirated software accounts for 54% of the market

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Microsoft has been working very closely with the authorities to curb the growing using of pirated software which according to estimates accounts for 54% of the market, Country Manager Microsoft Bahrain said. Tareq Hijazi, Country Manager for Microsoft, who was [...] > read more

Mara’ee 2012 concludes on a high note

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Mara’ee Bahrain Animal Production Show 2012 has come to close with a resounding success over the past six days and attracted over 200,000 visitors. This year 161 exhibitors, including 100 international exhibitors from 32 countries, took part in the trade [...] > read more

Bahrain destines to move forward: Justice Minister

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The Minister of justice and Islamic Affairs Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa assured that the priority now for the government, after implementing the recommendations of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI), is to continue implementing the visions of [...] > read more

Booz & Co to prepare 2012-16 e-government strategy

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Deputy Premier and Head of the Supreme Committee for Information Technology and Communication Shaikh Mohammed Bin Mubarak Al Khalifa chaired at Gudaibiya Palace the committee’s 34th meeting. He stressed that the committee aims at providing government services via electronic media [...] > read more

Foreign Ministry summons Lebanese envoy

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The Foreign Affairs Ministry summoned the Acting Lebanese Chargé d’Affaires in Bahrain Sami Haddad and handed over to him a protest memorandum regarding the statement delivered by the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri as he patronized a photo [...] > read more

BDF Royal Navy concludes joint exercise

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The BDF Royal Navy has concluded the joint tactical military drill (Sword) with participation from US Marines’ Task Force which had begun on March 5, 2012. The exercise aims at brushing up combat skills for the task force contingents, upgrading [...] > read more

IAA President hits back on misleading reports

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Information Affairs Authority (IAA) President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa hit back on misleading media campaigns by some politically-motivated satellite channels, whose affiliation is already known, which are still targeting Bahrain with false and fabricated news. He harshly criticized [...] > read more

NOGA and AGU sign co-operation agreement

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National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Arabian Gulf University (AGU). Minister of Energy Dr. Abdul Hussain Mirza and Head of the University Dr. Khalid Al Ohali inked the agreement. Dr. Mirza expressed [...] > read more

Bahrain one step closer to host F1 Grand Prix 2012

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Both the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) and commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone made clear after Tuesday’s anniversary was met with tear gas and petrol bombs that the fourth race of the season remained on track, according to a statement published by the Bahrain News Agency. “The FIA, like many in the diplomatic community in the [...] > read more

Bahrain deports 4 tourist-turned protestors

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An Immigration official on Friday confirmed that in the last 24 hours, four more foreign ‘activists’ participating in unauthorized protests have been deported for lying on immigration forms. Tighe Barry, William James Kelly, Susan “Medea” Benjamin and Elaine Murtagh all obtained visas upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport during the last week. The visas were [...] > read more

Sailing Arabia teams arrive in Abu Dhabi

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A strong tail wind has blown the Sailing Arabia – The Tour yachts towards Abu Dhabi with an unexpected speed today, with boats arriving in the early hours of the morning, instead of the evening as anticipated. The nine yachts representing five of the six Gulf States as well as a team from France have [...] > read more

Saboteurs stage illegal protests, rallies on Friday: Police

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Groups of saboteurs took part in unauthorized protests following the funeral of Hussain Al-Baqali, according to a statement published by the Bahrain News Agency quoting Ministry of Interior senior official. They committed acts of rioting and sabotage and blocked roads, using dustbins and hurling iron rods and Molotov cocktails. “Security forces had to intervene and [...] > read more

Al Zayani praises the UNGA for resolution on Syria

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Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani has praised the UN General Assembly’s endorsement of a resolution introduced by the Arab League on Syria, stressing that it’s a historic decision reflecting the International Community’s rejection of the crimes committed against the brotherly Syrian people, and reaffirming the Syrian regime’s [...] > read more

IAA Chief praises choosing Manama as Capital of Arab Press

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Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa received the banner of “Manama Capital of Arab Press 2012″ as he received the Arab Youth Media Forum’s ambassador Haitham Yussef and ambassador of the Arabian Gulf Arab Youth Media Forum Khalid Abu Shiba. Shaikh Fawaz hailed choosing Manama the capital of Arab press as [...] > read more

Bahrain to host the 20th MPGC in May

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The Kingdom of Bahrain is set to host the 20the anniversary of Middle East Petroleum and Gas Conference (MPGC) from May 6–8, 2012 under the patronage of HE Dr. Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy-Chairman of National Oil and Gas Authority, and Chairman of BAPCO’s Board. After an 8-year hiatus, MPGC 2012 returns to [...] > read more

BAPCO participates in ASSE-MEC Conference in Bahrain

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BAPCO will participate in the 10th Professional Development Conference and Exhibition (PDC&E) organized by the American Society of Safety Engineers, Middle East Chapter (ASSE-MEC) to be held during February 18-22, 2012. The Risk and Reliability Management Section of Bapco’s Engineering Division are due to present two papers. The first paper, prepared by Ram K Goyal [...] > read more

eGov excellence award nominations close on 20th

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In response to the demand of potential participants and in a bid to allow an opportunity for the maximum number of applications, the registration deadline of the eGovernment Excellence Award 2012 has been extended to 20th February 2012. The award, in its fifth year, is organized under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin [...] > read more

Sajan becomes ‘Visionary of the Year’

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Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of the Danube Group, leader in construction, building materials and shop fitting industries, has been named ‘Visionary of the Year’ during the inaugural edition of the Indian CEO Awards held at the Armani Hotel in Dubai. The award was given to Sajan in recognition of his dynamic leadership and strong [...] > read more

Governments take lead on environment related policy initiatives

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Environmental issues are changing the energy and utilities industry as never before, and their influence can only increase, according to a new white paper from Deloitte Middle East entitled “Middle East Energy and Resources, Managing Scarcity for the Future” whitepaper series. “Diversion Ahead”, the new whitepaper, explores the challenges and trends emerging in the energy [...] > read more

Around 20% never takes exercise in Bahrain: Survey

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With majority 84 percent respondents eat breakfast daily in Bahrain, about 20 per cent never take any sort of exercise, according to Zarca Interactive Health and Fitness Trends study for the third quarter 2011. One of the most awaited Health and Fitness Study in the Middle East, Zarca Interactive leading provider of next generation information [...] > read more

Alkabeer forecasts Bahrain’s GDP growth at 1.2%

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According to Alkhabeer Capital, the combined GDP of the GCC region is expected to register a growth in excess of 4% where Qatar will top the list with (7%) followed by Saudi Arabia (4.6%), Kuwait (3%), Oman (2.7%), UAE (2.4%) and Bahrain (1.2%). Alkhabeer Capital, a leading Saudi investment company, has released its latest global [...] > read more

Four arrested for arson attack on police officer’s residence

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The authorities have rounded up four gangsters for allegedly carrying out arson attack a police officer’s residence in East Ekar. The General Director of Central Governorate Police confirmed the arrests and said that thugs also attacked one of the family members with Molotov resulting in burn injuries in addition to extensive damage to cars and [...] > read more

Bahrain remains united: HRH Premier

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His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister emphasized that the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national unity remains the cornerstone on which all efforts should be focused as well as community mobility in order to boost and support unity of the Bahraini people who lived and shall always remain to live in [...] > read more

Bahrain on right path of political and economic development

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Bahrain has witnessed many strides of development in economic and political sectors. This was stated by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister, who received His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, at the Premier’s court on Monday. Both their Royal Highnesses [...] > read more

Bahrain Grand Prix F1 2012 tickets go on sale

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The stage is set for the year’s biggest sporting and social event: the 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place April 20 to 22 at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The 60-day countdown to the three-day Formula One extravaganza got underway Monday (February 20). Excitement and anticipation is now building up, [...] > read more

RUW students visit China

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A total of 21 students from the Faculties of Business & Financial Sciences, I.T and Art and Design embarked on a ten day visit to China. They spent five days in Beijing and five days in Hong Kong. The purpose of the visit was to expose students to the booming Chinese economy and cultural feats. [...] > read more

Nimr 6×6 Armoured Patrol Vehicle on display at IAV 2012

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Abu Dhabi-based Nimr Automotive, a subsidiary of Tawazun Holding, is currently exhibiting at the 11th Annual International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) conference and exhibition being held at FIVE, Farnborough, UK (20th to 23rd Feb 2012). The first ever UAE company to appear at International Armoured Vehicles, Nimr develops and manufactures a wide range of interoperable defence [...] > read more

Etisalat subscriber base rises 22% to 167m in 2011

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During a Board Meeting on Tuesday 20th held at Etisalat Head Office in Abu Dhabi, Etisalat’s Board approved the consolidated financial results for fiscal year ended 31 December 2011. The Board members also proposed final dividends at 60 fils par value for fiscal year 2011. The Emirates Telecommunication Corporation – Etisalat, operating in 17 countries [...] > read more

Tamkeen’s financing portfolio reaches BD169.5m

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Tamkeen signed an agreement with the Bahrain Islamic Bank (BiSB) under which it will add BD10 million to its Enterprise Financing Scheme, which it offers in partnership with leading financial institutions in the Kingdom. The additional funds raise the total value of the scheme’s financing portfolio to BD169.5 million. The signing ceremony was held, at [...] > read more

Batelco launches unlimited mobile data packages

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Batelco announced a new concept for its mobile broadband services with the addition of unlimited data packages based on a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). Thanks to this great initiative, Batelco’s mobile broadband customers can enjoy unlimited data and up to 21Mbps bandwidth with rates starting from as low as BD8 per month. Customers will still [...] > read more

Tamkeen extends e-Tendering training programme

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Tamkeen has extended its e-Tendering Training Programme with the aim of training an additional 550 business owners in the fundamentals of e-Tendering. The programme, done in cooperation with the Tender Board, is part of Tamkeen’s objective of delivering accessible business support services to enhance the productivity and growth of enterprises and individuals in Bahrain. The [...] > read more

GSMA seeks assurances on Barcelona public transport strike

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The metro and bus workers from TMB, the main public transport operator in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, have announced plans to strike during Mobile World Congress which will be held 27th February through 1st March 2012. The GSMA has senior executives in Barcelona and they have been meeting regularly with government officials from the [...] > read more

Kazan to host investment and FDI Forum

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The organisers of the International Investment Forum KAZANINVEST: Foreign direct investment has announced the details. The event kicks off on March 1, 2012, at Grand Hotel, Kazan, the Republic of Tatarstan will provide an opportunity to participants to discuss the investment attractiveness of Russian regions and action-oriented tools for foreign capital attraction. To promote productive [...] > read more

Oman Ministry of Tourism backs Oman Sail’s SATT

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Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has announced its full support for Team Muscat 2012 in the 2nd Sailing Arabia – The Tour (SATT) sailing regatta which kicked off on February 12, 2012 in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The sponsorship forms part of promotional activities related to Muscat’s selection as the Arab Capital for Tourism in 2012. [...] > read more

Al Hilal Bank unveils the maiden sukuk

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Al Hilal Bank announced the launch of its first sukuk fund, the Al Hilal Global Sukuk Fund. The new offering reaffirms Al Hilal Bank’s full commitment to product and service innovation and its keen interest in strategic segments of the financial services sector. The flagship fixed-income fund’s objective is to generate regular income as well [...] > read more

Enterprise data witnesses incredible growth

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The rapid adoption of mobile devices, various enterprise applications and social media has largely contributed to the unprecedented growth rate of enterprise data, both structured and unstructured, according to a recent study by International Data Corporation (IDC), the premier global market intelligence and advisory firm for the information technology and telecommunications markets. Unstructured data, in [...] > read more

Bahrain to observe ‘safer Internet day 2012’

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The Kingdom of Bahrain will observe for the first time the “International Safer Internet Day”, an international event observed by more than 70 countries round the world on 7th February, 2012. The first meeting of the National Co-ordination Committee for this event was held with the participation of Zain Bahrain, Microsoft, Ministry of Education represented [...] > read more

VIVA signs first E-learning agreement with The British School and iMachines

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VIVA Bahrain signed an agreement with the British School of Bahrain and iMachines to provide reliable high-speed internet connection through cutting edge infrastructure in order to support advanced digital learning for the first time in the Kingdom. Through this agreement VIVA will offer iPads 2 with advanced telecom solutions for BSB students in Bahrain in [...] > read more

Emirates further strengthens its sales position in Bahrain

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With the opening of the new state-of-the-art new customer sales offices in the financial district of Seef in Bahrain, Emirates is well positioned to serve the existing client base as well as to enhance its market share through a quality service. The senior team of Emirates which specially flew in to mark this occasion believes [...] > read more

BIC plans open track day for Friday

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A full day’s programme of fun and excitement has been lined up for Bahrain International Circuit’s (BIC) Open Track Day, which takes taking place this Friday (February 24, 2012) at ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’ in Sakhir. In this widely popular event, members of the public will have the chance to take [...] > read more

Tamkeen forms strategic partnership with Aon Hewitt

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Tamkeen formed a strategic partnership with Aon Hewitt, the global human resource consulting and outsourcing solutions business of Aon Corporation, to launch a pioneering research initiative, Qudurat, within Bahrain’s private sector. Qudurat has been conceptualized by Aon Hewitt to be the first and largest research study of its kind in the GCC, dedicated to the [...] > read more

Bapco’s WWTP project completes 1m man-hours sans a single LTI

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Employees of BAPCO and contractors working on the Waste Water Treatment Plant Project (WWTP) completed one million man-hours without a single Lost time injury (LTI). This is an outstanding worth commending achievement especially since a project of this kind involves handling and management of additional hazards and other environment issues. Despite these challenges, the project [...] > read more

PMU organises a workshop

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Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) hosted the first Prince Naif Chair for Youth Development Workshop in its campus. Vice Rector for Business Affairs and Development, Dr. Adel Al-Saleh welcomed participants from KSA universities and secondary schools. Focused on awareness about new methods and techniques applied to enhance skills in youths, this workshop had orientation [...] > read more

KSAALT hosts annual conference

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Association of Language Teachers (KSAALT) held the 3rd Annual Mini Conference under the auspices of Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) in Holiday Inn Resort, Al- Khobar. Language educators from around the Kingdom participated in it. This one-day conference themed at “Effective Teaching in the ESL Classroom,” welcomed more than [...] > read more

UK perception gets more clearer about Bahrain

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Advisor to His Majesty the King for Diplomatic Affairs and President of the Bahrain Centre for Strategic and International Studies and Energy, Dr. Mohammed Abdul Ghaffar stressed that the British’s view of events in Bahrain has changed after understanding the reality of the situation, stressing that the British Government doesn’t support violence. In a statement [...] > read more

Iran’s Nuclear Programme remains suspicious: British Ambassador

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The British ambassador in the Kingdom of Bahrain Iain Lindsay said that his country remained suspicious about the Iranian nuclear ambitions. The Ambassador also accused Iran of supporting terrorism, and seeking to destabilize the region through Hezbollah and vassal militias in Iraq and pinpointed Iran’s negative role in Afghanistan in addition to violation of human [...] > read more

GCC economies remain unaffected despite economic upheaval

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Despite the world’s financial crisis, economic growth in the GCC countries surged from 4.2% in 2010, to 5% in 2011, thanks to the strong economic fundamentals of the regional states, according to the Advisor to His Majesty the King for Diplomatic Affairs and BCSISE President Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Ghaffar. Quoting report he said the [...] > read more

Bahrain achieves remarkable economic goals

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has asserted that the government has achieved innumerable landmark economic achievements despite the regional and global economic and political situations, which has consolidated the kingdom’s position in this regard. “The Kingdom has succeeded, as usual, to overcome all those conditions and emerge stronger thanks [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Grand Prix 2012 may fetch $500m: BIC Chief

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Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), the first racing track in the Middle East, is set to host the 8th Grand Prix from April 20 to 22nd with expected revenue of $300 million to $500 million, according to a top official at the BIC. Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive at BIC, told the Press [...] > read more

GIFORUM to attract 500 delegates

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Bahrain-headquartered The Firm (TF), an international private members club and marketplace for business development and intrapreneurship, announced that the Global Intrapreneurship Forum (GIFORUM) 2012 is set to take place in Bahrain from May 27-28 at the Gulf Hotel. GIFORUM 2012 will be the first global conference of its kind dedicated to supporting the growth and [...] > read more

BMI Bank expands acceptance of Diners Club Card

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Bahraini retail and commercial banking institution, BMI Bank signed a strategic and exclusive service agreement with CrediMax, the leading credit card acquirer in the Kingdom of Bahrain, to utilize their Point of Sales (POS) machines as well as payment gateways amongst its approved merchants to accept and authorize the Bank’s credit card product Diners Club [...] > read more

Legislators slam foreign interference in Bahrain

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Members of the House of Representatives and parliamentarians criticized blatant interference by some countries and political organizations in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s internal affairs. The members rejected such interference and disrespect of our national sovereignty and independence which could further aggravates the political situation in the region. MPs also revealed that such objectionable actions fully [...] > read more

GIB reports $104.5m yearly profit

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The Board of Directors of Gulf International Bank (GIB or the Bank) recorded consolidated net income after tax of $104.5 million being $4.1 million or 4 per cent up on the prior year. Net income after tax in the fourth quarter was $19.9 million compared to $14.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2010. GIB [...] > read more

GPIC produces a record 1.57m tonnes Ammonia

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The Gulf Petrochemical Industries Complex (GPIC) set a new annual record of producing 1.575 million tonnes of Ammonia, Urea and Methanol, which is the highest annual output since the launch of the Company. The Urea plant achieved an annual record of 673,681 tonnes of production during 2011, which was the highest output since it went [...] > read more

Basic commodities should be affordable: HRH Premier

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who chaired at Gudaibiya Palace the cabinet regular weekly meeting, issued directives to ensure basic commodities and services are provided at affordable prices. HRH directed the Industry and Commerce Ministry, to continue its inspection and supervisory campaigns to keep prices under control and within [...] > read more

HM King’s initiatives help Bahrain to win global accolade: HRH Premier

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has laid the foundation for an institutional framework that paved the way for wider popular participation and helped the Kingdom earning a regional and international respect, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa said. “Such framework has been a catalyst of reform and [...] > read more

Security and stability serve as vital pillar for business: BCCI Chief

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Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dr. Essam Fakhro stressed that the development process will accomplish its goals only through the achievement of security and stability and to stop all forms of violence and terrorism. Dr. Fakhroo called on the Ministry of Interior to increase security around the economic sites and commercial [...] > read more

Bahraini music remains focal point in Spring of Culture: Shaikha Mai

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The Minister of Culture Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa affirmed that the participation by Bahraini bands had its place in the Spring of Culture this year as was done in previous years, highlighting the participation of Mohammed bin Faris youth band during the Spring Culture in 2007. Moreover, she also indicated the great interest [...] > read more

Sabre remains on the path of growth in 2011

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Sabre Travel Network Middle East (STNME), a global technology company serving travel suppliers and agencies, witnessed a strong growth across all Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets in 2011. A market leader in most GCC countries, Sabre signed partnership [...] > read more

Bapco’s Platformer-Unifiner shutdown kicks off today

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The planned turnarounds of the Platformer-Unifiner units started on April 01st, 2012 for a period of 30 days. The Platformer-Unifiner shutdown has been scheduled to follow immediately after the No.1 Visbreaker and Ker Rerun units (1VBU / KRU) which are [...] > read more

Dr Mirza patronises annual arts competition

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Bapco thanked the Minister of Energy, Chairman of National Oil & Gas Authority (NOGA) and Chairman of Bapco’s Board of Directors, Dr. A.Hussain Bin Ali Mirza, for his valued support to Bapco’s activities & events, especially Bapco’s First Annual Art [...] > read more

GPCA board elects Mohamed Al Mady as Chairman

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Mohamed Al-Mady, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SABIC, has been re-elected as Chairman of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the region’s leading trade association dedicated to the downstream industry in the Middle East. The unanimous decision [...] > read more

Human Rights Watch statement on Bahrain is ‘irresponsible’

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Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development expressed its disappointment on the inappropriate evaluation and the preconceived judgment issued by Human Rights Watch in its statement dated March 28, 2012, entitled “Bahrain: the vital reform commitments that have not been [...] > read more

Bahrain’s delegation to IPU exposes false case of Iran

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The Parliamentary delegation at the Arab and Islamic countries meeting in its 126 session of the International Parliamentary Union was able to foil a suggestion submitted by Iran in placing the Kingdom of Bahrain on the list of countries engulfed [...] > read more

LMRA nabs group of Asian hackers

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A group of Asians accused of hacking the electronic system of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) have appeared before the Public Prosecutor to face charges. The hackers used an LMRA employee’s pseudonym and password and cancelled the violations committed [...] > read more

A young Bahrain died due to profuse bleeding

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Results of a post mortem into the death of a young man from Salmabad have been released. The coroner who conducted the autopsy concluded that the death was caused by a recent single live gunshot to the pelvis. According to [...] > read more

GCC News Agencies meeting concludes

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Directors of the GCC News Agencies concluded their 15th meeting at the GCC General-Secretariat headquarters in Riyadh, in the presence of GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Culture and Information Affairs Khalid Al-Ghassani. During the meeting, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) director Abdulla [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro receives BBK team

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Industry and Commerce Minister and Bahrain Society for Child Development Chairman Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro received Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait Chief Executive Officer Abdulkarim Bucheeri who presented a cheque towards supporting the activities and programmes of the association. BBK [...] > read more

Banks are almost 10 times more likely to fail than five years ago: Fitch

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Banks are almost 10 times more likely to fail than they are to default over a five-year period, according to Fitch data for the past 20 years. “The difference has been the role that governments have played in supporting failed banks,” Fit > read more

Al Mazaya plans to focus on revenue-generating assets in 2011: Chairman

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Al Mazaya Holding is continuing to make strides in its plan to complete and deliver all its current real estate projects despite challenges related to both the real estate markets and investors, and the company has commenced operating its income gene > read more

Fakhro toured Ramez and Muharraq central markets

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Industry and Commerce Minister continues his series visits to market and retail outlets in order to determine the latest market development and enhance control on market, Dr. Hassan Fakhro inspected yesterday morning Muharraq Central Market as well a > read more

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company sets aside $2b for 5-year expansion plan

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With estimated investments of $2 billion, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company announced a major expansion and development initiative taking the total number of properties in its portfolio to over 100 around the world by 2016. Ranging from Morocco to Mexic > read more

Middle East’s first Apple Premium Reseller store opens doors for business in Bahrain

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro praised all efforts made by the private sector to stimulate the economic activity in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Minister, who opened the first Apple Premium Reseller store at Seef Mall, said private s > read more

BCCI supports UoB with BD160,000 donation

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The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) donated more than BD 160, 000 to the University of Bahrain (UoB) to help rehabilitate the buildings that were damaged as result of the regretful incidents took place in March. The move was revealed > read more

Probe committee absolves 571 sacked employees from charges

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A probe committee headed by the Minister Labour has absolved 571 employees from charges of absenteeism and recommended their reinstatement to their respective jobs. “A batch of 571 sacked employees has been reinstated into their jobs for lack o > read more

HM King seeks effective participation of people in transparent manner in the National Dialogue

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With Bahrain is gearing up for the National Dialogue scheduled to kick start from July 1, Parliament Chairman Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Dhahrani has been appointed by Royal Order to chair the dialogue and moderate the sessions. HM King Hamad on Saturday u > read more

Labour Minister briefs DG ILO on steps taken by Bahrain to tackle the issue of sacked employees

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Labour Minister Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan met with International Labour Organisation’s DG Juan Somavia on the sidelines of the 100th ILO session, being held in Geneva, Switzerland. He gave an update on positive developments which reflect > read more

Bahrain to launch new Visa Forms from 1st July

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The General Directorate for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs will launch a new application form on July1. The initiative follows directives from Interior Ministry Undersecretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs Shaikh Rash > read more

Over 4000 attends Al Wefaq gathering

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The General Director of Northern Governorate police station said that Al Wefaq Society organized a gathering in Saar attended by around 4000 men and women. The director in reply to what was reported by some news agencies affirmed that that gathering > read more

HRH Princess Sabeeka patronises Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School’s graduation ceremony

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Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa wife of His Majesty the King and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) deputized the Deputy Chairwoman of the SCW Dr Shaikha Mariam bint Hasan Al Khalifa to attend the fourth Sha > read more

Two Columbians detained at BIA for carrying fake Italian travel documents

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The authorities at the Bahrain International Airport on Saturday arrested two Columbian nationals for carrying forged Italian travel documents. The assistant undersecretary for Exits, Search and Follow-up at the General Directorate of Nationality, Pa > read more

GCC calls to consider alternative energy instead of peaceful nuclear energy

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plans to join the nuclear energy club used for peaceful purposes as part of its economic programmes which focus on developing this sector and activating its role in raising the rate of GDP. According to a top official, Sau > read more

RAK Petroleum Chairman becomes new Chairman of Norwegian Oil Producer DNO

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Shareholders at the DNO International during annual general assembly held on Saturday in Oslo elected Bijan Mossavar-Rahmani as the company’s new Chairman. Mossavar-Rahmani is Chairman of the Board and CEO of RAK Petroleum Public Company Limited, t > read more

AllWorld Network and Arcapita launch GCC Fast Growth 100

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Anne Habiby, co-founder of AllWorld Network and Atif Abdulmalik, the CEO of Arcapita launched the GCC Fast Growth 100 (GCC100), as a pioneering and prominent programme to find and rank the fastest growing private companies of the GCC, the companies c > read more

Al Khayyat Investments to focus on healthcare, retail, education, real estate and automobiles

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Al Khayyat Investments LLC (AKI), a leading Dubai holding company that represents more than 200 top international brands across the Middle East, has unveiled the strategy for 2011 with aggressive focus on healthcare, retail, education, real estate an > read more

Jeddah real estate market benefiting from stimulus spending

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Jeddah’s real estate market is benefiting from the Saudi government’s recently announced 500 billion riyal financial stimulus package and massive public sector infrastructure investments according to Jones Lang LaSalle’s latest report ‘Jeddah > read more

ECG enhances its participation in global and Mena energy markets through United Safety

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Bahrain-based Energy Capital Group (ECG), a private global investment firm focused on energy and energy-related corporate investments, announced that United Safety, in which the firm owns a majority stake, has achieved further international growth an > read more

Fitch makes senior BRM appointment to lead new regional office

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Fitch Ratings has announced that Stephen de Stadler, Managing Director, has been appointed to the newly created post of Regional Business Leader for Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa following a strategic decision to combine the oversight and manage > read more

Zain Bahrain translates summer free time into summer F.U.N

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One of the most unique mentorship programmes, the Zain Bahrain Future University Network (F.U.N), which promises university undergraduates an opportunity to gain valuable real-life workplace experience, has opened its doors once again for summer trai > read more

New management at helms of affairs at TAIB Bank

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TAIB Bank appointed a new management team, to begin a significant restructuring of the bank, has been officially approved by the Central Bank of Bahrain as permanent appointments. Sohail Sultan, TAIB’s new Chief Executive Officer has over 20 years > read more

No holidays for Ministers

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All ministers’ holidays were called off by the Cabinet under the directives of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, for the national consensus dialogue period. Under the directives of His Royal Highness Prime > read more

The IAA informs the BCC over misleading archive footage

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The Information Affairs Authority has notified the BBC news channel after broadcasting a news report without indicating that it’s archival material, leading viewers to believe that it covers fresh protests in Bahrain. The channel broadcast a news r > read more

HRH the Premier affirms role of media

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His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa affirmed the importance of media in present times and the real power it forms if utilized in a productive and effective manner towards enlightening the public opinion. HRH the > read more

BDF Commander-in-Chief receives GCC Secretary General

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BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa received the GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. He praised the honourable stance of the GCC member states regarding the recent unfortunate incidents in B > read more

Ayat Hassan Mohammed sentenced to one year imprisonment

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The Lower National Safety Court sentenced Ayat Hassan Mohammed, who was charged of taking part in illegal protests for criminal ends and inciting the hatred of the ruling system, to one year imprisonment, stated the Military Prosecutor. Ali Yussef Ha > read more

HM King Hamad issues five laws

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued Law 10 for this year endorsing the today additional protocol of Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) agreement signed between kingdom and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in December > read more

Cessation Court adjourns hearing of policemen murder cases till Sept 26

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Bahrain’s Cessation Court of Appeals postponed the hearing of the appeals trial of the two sentenced to death for alleged role in murder of two policemen to the 26th September 2011. The National Safety Court of First Instance had issued a verdict o > read more

IAA President seeks greater co-operation between Bahrain-Egypt in media

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President of the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa continued his efforts in reinforcing media cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Egypt through visiting various official and private media establishmen > read more

The 5th GCC Public Relations Forum concludes on Wednesday

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The three-day the 5th GCC Public Relations Forum will be concluded on Wednesday. Held under the patronage of the Minister of Social Development and acting Minister of Health Dr Fatima Al Balushi the event was organized by the Bahrain Public Relations > read more

Remote Aircraft Apron project opens at end of July

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Ministry of Works’ Undersecretary, Nayef Omar Al-Kalali, announced that completion and operation of the Remote Aircraft Apron project at Bahrain International is progressing according to plan 4 stands out of 9 have been handed over to the Airport a > read more

Summer Festival 3 will spread a message of hope, love and optimism

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Bahrain’s Summer Festival 3 aims at spreading a message of hope, love and optimism in the kingdom, the region and beyond, organisers. The third annual event from July 1 to 31 includes events and activities that aim to bring joy and happiness to > read more

Deputy Premier receives RCSI President

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Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa received the President of Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Medical University of Bahrain Dr. Faisal bin Ridha Al Musawi and a number of officials who extended their sincere thanks and gra > read more

Court releases one suspect on health grounds

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The Lower National Safety Court released one suspect for health reasons, the Military Prosecutor said. The suspect, who was also banned from travelling, stood trial, along with other 12 suspects, over kidnapping a policeman, inciting criminal acts an > read more

Interior Minister holds talks with Posner

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The Minister of Interior Lt Gen. Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa received the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Michael H. Posner in the presence of the Head of Public Security Brigadier Tariq bin > read more

Bahrain to sue The Independent for publishing defamatory reports

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Bahrain has decided to sue the British Independent newspaper for repeatedly publishing wrong and defamatory information to tarnish its image. The Information Affairs Authority has commissioned a UK-based legal firm to file a case against the British > read more

Bahrain’s FM attends 119th GCC Ministerial Meeting

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GCC Ministers’ of Foreign Affairs began this evening the 119th GCC Ministerial meeting sessions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. At the outset of the meeting the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and current session chairman Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahy > read more

Bahrainis witness the darkest lunar eclipse of the century

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Bahrain witnessed perhaps the darkest lunar eclipse of the century on Wednesday night with a rare view of full moon covered by the shade of earth. This was believed to be the century’s longest and darkest total lunar eclipse as the moon wrapped > read more

Unlimited calls for VIVA customers

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Bahrain’s first telecom provider to offer unlimited mobile services, VIVA, is now offering its customers the ability to talk to each other for free all day, every day. For a limited promotional period, customers can enjoy unlimited calls to other V > read more

Zain honours winners

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Zain Bahrain gave away prizes to lucky winners of the past couple of weeks in the Zain Broadband Fair as they won a range of prizes from Playstation to laptops, smartphone handsets, three months free rentals and Zain Entertainer booklets at the Zain > read more

Severe punishment demanded in Al Mrissi’s murder case

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The First Lower National Safety Court on Wednesday heard six criminal cases, according to the Military Prosecutor. In the first case, in which five people were accused of hiding in two suspects’ houses, the court adjourned it to next Wednesday, Jun > read more

US administration fully backs upcoming National Dialogue in Bahrain

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US Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour Michael H. Posner voiced his country’s support during a press conference held at the US Embassy in Manama. The US stance came in the aftermath of His Majesty King > read more

Batelco-Kingdom Holding Consortium one step closer of acquiring 25% stake in Zain KSA

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The Batelco-Kingdom Holding Consortium, is one step closer to the acquisition of 25% stake in the Zain KSA. The Consortium was granted access to Zain Saudi’s records thus ensuring the deal can progress to the final stages, according to a statem > read more

Elaf Bank gets nod from Malaysian authorities to open branch office in Kuala Lumpur

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Bahrain-based Elaf Bank, licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain to operate as a wholesale Islamic bank with a paid-up capital of $200 million, has been granted a license by the Ministry of Finance Malaysia to open a branch office under the Malaysia > read more

Dr Mirza lauds the role of media in development of the national economy

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His Excellency Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy, who at his offices located at the National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) received Mahmood Rafique, founding Editor of 24X7 News (www.twentyfoursevennews.com), lauded the media role in > read more

Sabre opens new office in Alexandria

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Sabre Travel Network Middle East (STNME), has officially opened a new office in Alexandria, Egypt. The centrally located office, in the prestigious Kafr Abdou area, is equipped with modern facilities to support the agency community and the company’ > read more

AUB’s Adel El-Labban wins the Euromoney Award

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Ahli United Bank received a double honour at the 2011 Euromoney Awards for Excellence at the special ceremony held in Dubai. In addition to AUB being named “Best Bank in Bahrain 2011” for the sixth consecutive year, AUB’s Group CEO and Managing > read more

Bahrain Grand Prix officially off from the 2011 F1 Calendar

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Bahrain is officially off from the 2011 F1 Racing Calendar following the unanimous decision during a voting on the issue by the FIA’s Motor Sports Council. The cancellation the Bahrain Grand Prix was confirmed by the Motorsport’s world go > read more

Mobile advertising revenues to reach $3.3b in 2011

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Worldwide mobile advertising revenue forecast is set to reach $3.3 billion in 2011, more than double the $1.6 billion generated in 2010, according to Gartner, Inc. Worldwide revenue will reach $20.6 billion by 2015, but not all types of mobile advert > read more

StanChart scoops twin Euromoney awards

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Standard Chartered has been named “Best Investment Bank in the Middle East” and “Best Project Finance House” by pre-eminent international finance magazine Euromoney. The awards were presented at the 2011 Euromoney Middle East Awards for Excel > read more

TID Company set to pay KD82m as part of restructuring plan

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The Investment Dar Company’s restructuring plan will kick off by the end of this month paving the way for the company to pay approximately KD82 million. This amount will be paid out in the first year which will go to individual investors and sm > read more

BBK inaugurates its 16th branch in Seef District

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BBK, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, has opened its sixteenth Branch located in CrediMax new building in Seef district. CrediMax is a fully owned subsidiary of BBK, specialized in credit cards, both issuing cards and acquiring p > read more

Three women booked for occupying the UN House

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General Director of Capital Governorate Police has said that after receiving a complaint from the United Nation House in Bahrain about three ladies who entered its headquarter on Wednesday and after the end of the working hours refused to leave when > read more

Policies need to steer away from unbalanced growth: IMF

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The global economy has turned the corner from the great recession. However, securing the transition from recovery to expansion will require a concerted effort at addressing diverse challenges, according to IMF. The key fiscal priority for major advan > read more

Growth continues to be strong in emerging and developing economies: IMF

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Growth in most emerging and developing economies continues to be strong. Growth in many advanced economies is still weak, considering the depth of the recession. In addition, the mild slowdown observed in the second quarter of 2011 is not reassuring, > read more

Bahrain’s economy shows resilience during crisis

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Despite recent events, the economic fundamentals have been remained strong through economic challenges in the past and those would ensure a sustained growth. This was stated by Talal Alzain Chief Executive officer of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Compan > read more

Second Edition of Youth City 2030 kicks off on Saturday

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The second edition of the Youth City2030 will open on June18 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. Supreme Council for Youth and Sport Chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee President Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa will p > read more

National Dialogue preparations in top gear

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With the necessary preparations are getting final shape to host the national dialogue starting from July 1st, Parliament Speaker and National Consensus Dialogue Chairman Khalifa Al-Dhahrani started extending invitations to political associations, NGO > read more

Over 800 experts, scientists and policy makers to attend MEPEC 2011

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As many as 800 delegates from all five continents are set to attend the 1st Middle East Process Engineering Conference and Exhibition 2011 (MEPEC 2011) in Bahrain in October this year, the organizers say. Organized by Saudi Arabian Section of the Ame > read more

Minister of Energy recognizes BANAGAS achievements

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Minister of Energy Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza praised Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, General Manager of the Bahrain National Gas Company (BANAGAS) during his visit to the Minister’s office at the NOGA headquarters on the occas > read more

Al Wefaq notifies authorities for Friday gathering

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Director of the Central governorate police station affirmed that the gathering to be held by Al Wefaq Society has been notified about in accordance with the law. He said that the society had presented a request to organize this gathering through the > read more

Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad weds Saudi monarch’s daughter

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His Majesty the King’s son Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa married the daughter of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud. A ceremony was held in Riyadh on Thursday during which he signed the marriage cont > read more

GCC should remain united to face all challenges: HRH Premier

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The landmark achievements of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are the result of the GCC leaders’ wise policies which have proved effective in safeguarding the region’s security and stability amid the growing regional and global challeng > read more

Bahrain saves 40% in electricity bills through public awareness campaigns

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Growing global demand for energy-efficient and ecologically friendly lighting solutions is positively impacting the market for light emitting diode (LED) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) powered lamps and installations. This demand is being furthe > read more

Shaikh Nasser opens the Youth City 2030

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President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended the activities of the Youth City 2030 in its second consecutive edition that is being organized by the Ge > read more

Work at BD5.68m project Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park project on the right track

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Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Dr. Juma’a Al Ka’abi paid an inspection visit to Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park project in Hidd. He was accompanied by parliament First Deputy Chairman Ghanim Fadhl Al Buainin, Muharraq Municipal > read more

Bahrain prohibits afternoon labour work in July and August

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Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour Subah Salem Al Dossari announced that the ministry will begin as of first of July activating the ministerial order on the prohibition of working during noon time for labourers, from 12 noon to four pm during t > read more

Bahrain to lift curbs from a political society

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Action Society (Wa’ad) in which it expressed keenness to promote security, stability and national unity and take part in the comprehensive National Consensus Dialogue due to start on July 1. The ministry praised Wa’ad’s supportive s > read more

Majority of Energy Companies do not have business continuity plans: Deloitte

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The majority of Energy Companies do not have a business continuity management strategy or plan, according to Deloitte survey. Deloitte 2010 Energy and Resources (E&R) global security survey titled ‘Continuing the Journey’, revealed that inve > read more

Bahrain Summer Festival tickets go on sale

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Tickets for the third annual Bahrain Summer festival will go on sale starting from tomorrow, June 21st. The tickets are available to the general public exclusively through the festival kiosk in Bahrain City Center until the end of the festival on Jul > read more

MEET ICT 2011 kicks off today

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Under the patronage of Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, the two-day MEET ICT 2011 kicks off on Monday under the slogan “The Convergence of ICT Leaders” at Crowne Plaza Hotel. The Conference draws participation of more than 3 > read more

HRH Premier holds talks with Philippines President’s Special Envoy

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa received at Gudaibiya Palace Philippines President’s Special Envoy to the GCC Dr. Amabel Aguiluz, who conveyed greetings from Philippines President Benigno Aquino and wishes > read more

Captain Shaikh Nasser promoted to the rank of colonel; appointed BDF Royal Guard Commander

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued decree 29/M for 2011 promoting Captain Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa to the rank of colonel with effect from June 16, 2011. Colonel Shaikh Nasser was appointed as BDF Royal Guard Commander with ef > read more

Objectivity holds highest esteem in reporting: HRH Premier

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The Cabinet called upon the international community to be more accurate and refer to official sides when dealing with sensitive issues such as human rights and labour conditions, asserting that taking information from un-authorised sides may generate > read more

Royal Court mourns the demise of Ibrahim Humaidan

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The Royal Court mourned the demise of the Chairman of the Constitutional Court Ibrahim Mohammed Hassan Humaidan. The demised was one of the country’s loyal men who had served his country with honesty and devotion taking up several posts the last of > read more

‘There is no US peace initiative to salvage the stalled ME peace process’

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A senior Palestinian official denied Israeli press reports about a new US initiative to salvage the stalled Middle East peace process and indicated that the plan for seeking international recognition of an independent Palestinian state unilaterally m > read more

The first half proves quite volatile for the equity markets: Dexia

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The first half of 2011 has been quite volatile and equity markets now need some time to digest all this and find some solid ground again, according to Dexia Asset Management. “Fundamentally, valuations and corporate profitability remain the key > read more

Alba exceeds its projected targets in first half of 2011: Chairman Alba

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Despite the unfolding events in the region, Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) is upbeat to achieve a healthy financial performance for the first half of 2011, surpassing current growth targets and remain confident of maintaining a positive outlook for the res > read more

TRA announces the number portability for mobile and fixed lines telephony

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The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) announced that Number Portability will be available to consumers starting from July 17 for mobile telephony and two months later for fixed telephony. This announcement comes following the appointment > read more

Central Bank assures enough liquidity for the Bahrain’s banking system

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The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) on Monday assured the availability of the liquidity, among other things, to keep the smooth functioning of the banking system of the financial capital of the Middle East This was announced during the CBB Board of Dir > read more

Explosive growth of social networking fuels changes in the political landscape of the region

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Ubaidly Al Ubaidly Head of Organizing Committee MEET ICT 2011 in his opening speech highlighted the explosive growth of social networking and how this phenomenon is changing the political landscapes across the Middle East. In the beginning of year 20 > read more

MEET ICT 2011 Conference and Expo reinforces Bahrain’s position as emerging ICT Hub: Minister

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Bahrain on Monday hosted over 300 delegates and 28 exhibitors from across the region, reinforcing Kingdom’s position as rapidly emerging ICT hub in the region. The two-day MEET ICT 2011 Conference and Expo opened by Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Mi > read more

Women Gateway Portal gets Zain Bahrain support

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As part of its commitment to supporting the strengthening of women’s causes and initiatives, Zain Bahrain has announced that it will sponsor Bahrain Business Women Society in the popular women’s portal www.womengateway.com which serves as an info > read more

Nuclear power plants to meet 25% annual growth in electricity demand in the Middle East between 2010-15: Deloitte

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Nuclear power plants to meet 25% annual growth in electricity demand in the Middle East between 2010-15: Deloitte In the latest Deloitte periodical publication, ‘Middle East Point of View’ which hosts independent analysis and views from experts, > read more

Saudi economy to expand 5.9% in 2011: Fitch

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With the projection of economic growth of 5.9% this year, the banking sector of Saudi Arabia is stable, indicating that it has limited expectations of changes in the banks’ long-term issuer default ratings (IDRs) in the near to medium term, acc > read more

StanChart hosts conference on working capital management

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Standard Chartered hosted a client conference to discuss trends and issues in liquidity management in Bahrain. The event was attended by over 25 senior finance and treasury representatives of the Bank’s clients. “The event comes at an ideal t > read more

Alba launches the Code of Conduct

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Alba’s top executive announced a formal launch of Code of Conduct during a ceremony on Tuesday. The Code of Conduct provides a set of expectations explaining how Alba conducts business and interacts with external bodies The Code of Conduct sets > read more

Etihad launches new kids’ packs

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Etihad Airways, the Abu Dhabi-based national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched new kids’ packs, custom-designed to keep children content and entertained when flying with the airline. The launch of the new kits is well timed with the > read more

MEET ICT 2011 conference concludes with a resounding success

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The Information and Communication Technology Conference MEET ICT 2011 concluded on Tuesday, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Held under the patronage of Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, this year, MEET ICT 2011 conference included lar > read more

National Safety Court heard seven cases

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The National Safety Court heard seven criminal cases, the Military Prosecutor in a statement said. In the first case, Sadeq Taher Ibrahim stood trial over attempted murder, protesting illegally and inciting the hatred of the ruling system. The court > read more

National Dialogue remains a key to achieve greater national unity: HRH Prince Salman

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The National Consensus Dialogue is the key to success in fostering unity and bringing Bahrain back on the fast track. This was stated by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander as he received a > read more

Bahraini delegation extends inivitation to Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr.

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Bahrain’s parliamentary delegation currently visiting the United States, led by Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security at the Bahrain Shura Council, Dr. Salah Ali, said that the National Dialogue which will > read more

Diplomat Jauhar Saleem becomes new Ambassador of Pakistan in Bahrain

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A career Diplomat Jauhar Saleem has become new Ambassador of Pakistan in Bahrain. The newly appointed envoy took over the charge from the Charge d’Affaires Aurangzeb on Thursday for a full three-year term. Ambassador Saleem’s last posting > read more

Government remains committed to maintain the writ of law in the country: IAA

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The forthcoming National Dialogue will be an opportunity once again to unite the country and emerge with a broad consensus that will see further progress in political, social and economic reforms initiated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa > read more

Bahrain’s insurance market shows resilience to the recent unrest: Central Bank

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Despite the unfolding events in the Middle East in general and in the Kingdom of Bahrain specific, the Insurance sector showed sustained patterns of growth during the first quarter of 2011, according to statistics released by the Central Bank of Bahr > read more

Islamic Science Rediscovered to revisit the US

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‘Islamic Science Rediscovered’ also known as ‘Sultans of Science’, the global traveling exhibition created by Dubai and Cape Town based, MTE Studios returns to the United States following a popular demand. Originally started at the Ibn Ba > read more

Over $234b SMBs gets HP tech boost

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With the total size of $234 billion small and midsize businesses will get a new boost from the HP new solutions. HP solutions are based on advanced technology and an expanded entrepreneur program to enable small and midsize businesses (SMBs) to drive > read more

ABG donates $400,000 to the UoB

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Reflecting its deep belief in the importance of national responsibility towards the nation and the society, Bahrain-based Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG) has donated the University of Bahrain of $400,000 to support ongoing rehabilitation of the univers > read more

harman house unveils new JBL ‘on-air’ wireless airplay speaker dock in Bahrain

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

‘harman house’, the leading retail chain in home, professional and car infotainment, is taking the hassle out of connecting a cable between your iPod and a speaker, with the launch of the new JBL ‘On-Air’ Wireless AirPlay speaker dock. The re > read more

Markaz Fixed Income Fund yields 2.48% YTD

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz), one of the Middle East’s leading investment banking and asset management companies, announced the performance of Markaz Fixed Income Fund which had a positive return of 2.48% YTD, despite the current political unre > read more

Qatar Airways places $2.1b order for GE90-115B-powered Boeing 777-300ERs

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Qatar Airways has ordered six GE90-115B-powered Boeing 777-300ERs. The engine deal is valued at more than $350million list price. “Qatar Airways currently operates 25 GE90-powered Boeing 777 with an additional 15 aircraft on order,” said Kevi > read more

Jazeera Airways expands CFM56-5B-powered A320 Fleet with $80 million engine order

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Jazeera Airways has placed an order for CFM56-5B engines to power four brand new Airbus A320 aircraft scheduled to be delivered to the airline between 2012 and 2014. The engine order is valued at $80 million at list price. Jazeera Airways, which bega > read more

LG Cool Summer Promotion becomes an instant hit

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The LG Cool Summer Promotion is spreading its magic all over Bahrain. The customers receive a raffle coupon on every BD 10 spent under this promotion. This promotion is running for the period 23rd June 2011 to 28th July 2011. The promotion is unique > read more

LG offers washing machines with 10 years warranty

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

To celebrate an impressive five years as the runaway market leader in home appliances, LG Electronics are rewarding their loyal customers by offering a unique 10 year warranty on Inverter Direct Drive Motor washing machines to all its customers in th > read more

CitiFX Pro voted best retail FX platform

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The readers of Profit and Loss, a leading UK magazine following the global currency and derivatives markets, have given Citi’s CitiFX Pro their “Reader’s Choice” Digital Markets Awards for margin FX trading. In the bank provider categories, C > read more

Avenue Car Rental gets 50 Hyundai cars

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Avenue Car Rental and Leasing, subsidiary of A. Dadabai Group of Companies WLL, purchased a mix of 50 units of Hyundai Hatchbacks and Sedans to meet the new and retained customer’s spot rentals and long term lease requirements. Avenue’s purchase > read more

eGov Authority gets ISO 9001: 2008 quality management certification

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The eGovernment Authority recently received the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems standards certification after passing an independent evaluation conducted by BUREAU VERITAS certification, the official accreditation organization. The ISO 9001: > read more

Zain honours winners of Zainers talk more

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Muneera Mohammed AlJowder, Rania Hubaishi, Edward Machado, Baqer Charagh, Niklas Lillelund, Ruthnalyn Conde, Abedali Khayer, Reyadh Al Yaqoob, Mazhar Ali, Mariam Yousif, Mohammed Al Khayat, Seth Larson, Sam Mathew, Jaser Selwanes, Haya Al Baz, Yaser > read more

Bapco organizes a successful scientific seminar on eclipse

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bapco hosted a scientific seminar on eclipse at Bapco Club in Awali, as part of its ongoing efforts to boost scientific research in Bahrain. The seminar was held in collaboration with the Physics Department of University of Bahrain and the Informatio > read more

Megan Fox unveils LG Electronics Cinema 3D TV in the ME

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

More than 3,500 people attended LG Electronics’ highly anticipated Middle East launch of its next-generation CINEMA 3D TV at Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi in the presence of Hollywood actress, Megan Fox, the female lead of the Transformers films: Reveng > read more

National Dialogue invitation expires today

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Parliament Speaker and Chairman of the Bahrain National Dialogue Khalifa Al Dhahrani announced that Sunday evening (June 26th, 2011) would be the last day for receiving the views and names of the participants in the upcoming National Dialogue. The pr > read more

Mohannad bags highest votes in BJA polls

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahrain News Agency (BNA) acting director Mohannad Suleiman, who bagged the highest votes on Saturday during the BJA elections, extended his deepest thanks and appreciation to members of the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) for electing him as b > read more

Police launches probe into an alleged murder case

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Chief of Public Security Major-General Tariq Al Hassan on Saturday said that the Operations Headquarters at the Ministry of Interior received a report at 2:30 AM related to the admission of an injured person at Bahrain International Hospital. Ahmed Ismael [...] > read more

Bahrain presents proposal to GCC Olympics heads

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa presented Bahrain’s proposal at the GCC Olympic Heads Committee that included assigning the executive office of the committee [...] > read more

Countdown begins for eGovernment Forum 2012

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The countdown has begun for the launch of the fifth Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2012 which will be held from 8th to 11th April, 2012 under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, [...] > read more

Bahrain-Arab European Institute co-operation discussed

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Culture Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohamed Al-Khalifa received Spain-based Arab European Institute director-general and discussed exchanging expertise and openness on diverse cultures in the world to enrich human thought. The two sides discussed the programmes and activities of the Manama [...] > read more

ICG lauds Bahrain’s reforms

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

International Crisis Group deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa Joost Hiltermann paid tribute to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa for the landmark reform he had undertaken. He also hailed the implementation of the recommendations cited [...] > read more

Manama Human Rights Centre launched

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Manama Human Rights Centre was alunched at the Marina Club in the presence of its members, founders and a group of youth interested in human rights issues. The centre’s president Bassam Al Abdullah affirmed during his welcoming speech that the [...] > read more

ILO dismisses complaint against Bahrain on dismissed workers

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Juan Somavia has welcomed and expressed delight at the Kingdom’s resolve to solve the issue of dismissed workers seriously, expressing hope and confidence that the file will be finalized as soon as [...] > read more

Shaikh Nasser receives by Prince Nawaf

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa received the General Director of Youth and President of the Saudi Olympic Committee Prince Nawaf bin Faisal bin [...] > read more

Al Wefaq walks away from the National Dialogue?

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahrain’s main opposition party Al Wefaq has failed to accept the invitation extended by the Chairman the National Dialogue Parliament Speaker Khalifa Al Dhahrani. There was no official statement issued by Al Wefaq despite the expiry of the deadlin > read more

Chairman of the National Dialogue receives over 150 topics for debates

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Parliament Speaker and Chairman of the Bahrain National Dialogue Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Dhahrani announced that the chairmanship of the National Dialogue has received more than 150 views and issues for the National Dialogue. He added that the participa > read more

Bahrain’s economy is on the rebound: BCCI Chairman

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Dr. Issam Abdulla Fakhro expressed optimism that the Kingdom’s economic sectors will be boosted in the coming period with the start of the National Consensus Dialogue. He also said > read more

National Dialogue is a historic opportunity: HRH Premier

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This is a common goal which requires everybody, who will take part in the dialogue, to participate effectively and place the national interest above anything else. This was stated by HRH the Prime Minister during the weekly cabinet meeting and highli > read more

Rawabi launches new range of products

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Rawabi, Next Generation Network Solutions, the Bahrain-based telecommunications provider of customized network solutions, will launch a wide range of products which will potentially cater to business organizations of any size and background. From SME > read more

KFHB CEO Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat hosts staff

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Kuwait Finance House Bahrain (KFH-B) held its regular full day out with the Bank’s Managing Director and CEO at Durrat Al Bahrain. Each month, 20 randomly picked staff from the bank is given an opportunity to spend a full day out of the office with > read more

KESC commissions first turbine of the 560 MW BQ 2 flagship project

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) has successfully synchronized first of the three gas turbines of the 560 MW Bin Qasim Power Station-II and plans to start commercial operation after completion of commissioning tests. To sustain commercial o > read more

BBK donates BD 5,000 to Al Manar for Parents’ Care

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

In line with their strategic initiatives for a brighter community, BBK presented a cheque of BD 5,000 as a gesture of their support towards Al Manar for Parents’ Care. The cheque was handed over by Abdulkarim Bucheery, Chief Executive of BBK to Sha > read more

Manara Developments launches phase-I Wahat Almuharraq Project

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Manara Developments launched Wahat Almuharraq project which is comprised of 47 villas designed to suit the needs of middle income families, bringing together spectacular design, superb quality, and an ideal location. “Wahat Almuharraq” is moving > read more

SMBs become hot target for cybercriminals

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

News coverage on Internet security breaches is dominated by large companies and government, but SMBs are a favourite target for cybercriminals, according to Symantec. The report suggested that hackers and cybercriminals do target SMBs as they tend to > read more

Global spending on digital info and entertainment products to reach $2.1t

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In 2010, consumers globally spent $2 trillion on digital information and entertainment products and services, and this will increase to $2.8 trillion by 2015, according to Gartner, Inc. worldwide consumer spending on digital information and entertain > read more

Yellow metal still dominates the demand: Bank Sarasin

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With the European debt crisis showing no signs of abating, and on-going concerns about the US government’s sovereign credit rating, gold prices have continued to rise driven by investor demand, according to Bank Sarasin, report. Slowing global econ > read more

BIA’s annual passengers handling capacity to reach 13.5m

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With launch of the BD4.4 million expansion of Bahrain International Airport, the passenger handling capacity will get 50% increase from the current nine million to 13.5 million a year, a top official at the Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), said. BAC, a > read more

Sakana Busaiteen housing project is on the right track: CEO

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahrain-based Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions, the Islamic mortgage finance provider announced that phase one of “Sakana Busaiteen” residential housing project progress is on track and scheduled for handover next month. “Sakana Busaiteen” p > read more

Hamad Al Zayani gets elected as new President AmCham Bahrain

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The American Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain (AmCham) during its annual general assembly unanimously elected Hamid Rashid Al Zayani was elected as the new President of AmCham, Bahrain. The meeting also approved the other agenda and programme for the y > read more

Bahraini banks upbeat on better half-yearly yields in 2011: BAB CEO

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Abdulkareem Bucheery, the Chairman Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB), on Tuesday said that Bahraini banks would produce better half-yearly results at end of June, thanks to the level of rising optimism in the market and consolidation of the business > read more

National Safety Court has the jurisdiction to hear cases

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The National Safety Courts will continue hearing the cases referred to it before the lifting of the State of National Safety on June 1 until final verdicts are issued, as indicated by Article (13) of Royal Decree (18) for 2011, the Military Prosecuto > read more

Bahrain is set to host MEOS 2011 in September

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussein bin Ali Mirza, said that the world’s premier oil and gas show MEOS 2011 would be held under the auspices of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa from September 25 to 28 at the Bahr > read more

GCC Food Sector Outlook positive: Alpen Capital

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With the combined GDP of GCC to reach $1.8 trillion in 2015 from $1.1 trillion in 2010, the growth and outlook of the food sector remains a very important issue for this region, according to a senior official at Alpen Capital. “Although these count > read more

Dr Fakhro, Jameel Humaidan meets US Trade Rep. Ron Kirk

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro and the minister of Labour Jameel Mohammed Ali Humaidan met with US Trade Representative Ron Kirk in Washington DC, in a presence with Ambassador of the kingdom of Bahrain in the US Huda Nunu a > read more

Lower National Safety court adjourns two cases

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The First Lower National Safety Court heard two cases, the Military Prosecutor, in a statement said. In the first case, Hadi Ahmed Hassan Makki stood trial over charges of hiding crime tools, inciting the hatred of the ruling system and protesting il > read more

HRH Premier receives officials and citizens

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa asserted that the honourable national stances voiced by all segments of the Bahraini society will be recorded in the kingdom’s history in golden letters. “Those stance > read more

Interior Minister urges public security to be vigilant and prepared for challenges

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Interior Minister Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa on Monday inspected the Public Security line at the Special Forces’ Square. Present were Public Security Chief Major-General Taraq Mubarak bin Daina and Special Forces Co > read more

BDF Commander-in-Chief patronises symposium

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Under the patronage of Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the BDF Directorate of National Safety organized, at the Isa Royal Military College, a symposium on “the Arab Penins > read more

HRH Premier meets citizens from Central Governorate

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa described today the unfortunate events Bahrain has passed through as a clear derailing off the Bahraini values of peace, co-existence and tolerance. “There have been pitfalls of > read more

Ithmaar remains proactive in 2011 despite challenges

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Ithmaar Bank remains firmly committed both to its shareholder and to Bahrain, and has delivered on the promises it made last year by significantly increasing its income and dramatically expanding its retail banking network despite the unprecedented challenges of 2011. [...] > read more

SmartShow Ltd appoints Bahraini Co as ME rep

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SmartShow Ltd, the creators of ShowGizmo (the mobile app platform for events, tradeshows and conferences), has appointed Bahrain based Megan MacLeod as Middle East Representative, alongside John Quinn from the UAE, to represent the company throughout the region. “We identified [...] > read more

UNCHR will be a part of Bahrain’s fact finding mission

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Wednesday announced to set up a fact finding mission to look into the unfortunate events of February and March by including the broad spectrum of organizations including the office of the United Nations Hi > read more

Extremism will not be allowed to hijack reforms: HM King

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, on Wednesday underlined the importance of national unity, cohesion and support to the ongoing reforms in the country. His Majesty in his speech while chairing an extraordinary cabinet meeting at Al Sakhir Pa > read more

Over 300 to attend the opening session of the National Dialogue

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The National Dialogue, which was called for by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, will kick off on July 2nd, 2011 (Saturday) with the participation of more than 300 figures, representing all segments of the Bahraini community. Participants we > read more

White House welcomes move for setting up an independent commission

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Deputy Spokesman Mark Toner welcomed the announcement by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for establishing an independent committee to investigate the events surrounding recent protests in Bahrain. Toner added that this decision to appoint a > read more

Ambassadors get briefing on HM King’s speech at Foreign Office

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla received ambassadors and updated them on the keynote address of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa in the extraordinary Cabinet, which was held on June 29 meeting at Al-Sakhir Palace. > read more

National Dialogue remains a key to achieve national consensus for peaceful coexistence: Official

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The objectives of dialogue will help in identifying the various points of views, to research and survey the various views and scenarios available, and to find a compromise ground shared by all, according to the official spokesman for the National Dia > read more

NIKE raises FY15 revenue target to $28-30b

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NIKE, on Thursday presented an overview of its fiscal 2011 results by reviewing progress on key strategic initiatives to achieve sustainable, profitable long-term growth across its global portfolio of brands. During an investor meeting at its world h > read more

Fitch affirms SABIC at ‘A+’ with outlook stable

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Fitch Ratings has affirmed Saudi Basic Industries Corporation’s (SABIC) long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘A+’, senior unsecured rating at ‘A+’ and Short-term IDR at ‘F1′. The outlook on the long-term > read more

IDB spends $3.8b spent on projects in 2010

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Saudi Minister of Finance, Dr. Ibrahim Alassaf on Thursday chaired the opening ceremony of the working session of the 36th Annual Meeting of the IDB Board of Governors, which was held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. The Mini > read more

Al Saqafa board calls on Ambassador Jauhar Saleem

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Al Saqafa, the Pakistan Association’s new board, headed by the Chairman, Syed Altaf Azim, 5th from left, called on Jauhar Saleem, 4th from left, new Ambassador of Pakistan. Mujtaba Barlas, Vice Chairman, Imtiaz Ahmed Syed, General Secretary, Muhamm > read more

GPIC completes the 1st Responsible Care RC 14001 successfully

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

In line with directives issued by Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Chairman of the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company’s (GPIC) and the commitments of the GPIC Board of Directors towards continuous improvements and progress, GPIC has implemente > read more

$1t Islamic finance industry eyes liquid markets

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Islamic Finance a $1 trillion industry growing at over 15% annually is seeking evolved screening methodologies and deeper sector coverage in order to benchmark and create funds and investment vehicles to tap into this increasingly liquid markets, acc > read more

Bahrain issues eight licenses to new banks: CBB

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With Bahrain’s gross domestic product is likely to see a steady growth of 3% in 2011, the Kingdom has issued eight licenses to the new entities to start operations in Bahrain, according to a top official at the Central Bank of Bahrain. In an interv > read more

Al Baraka Bank Algeria to get new HQs

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Al Baraka Bank Algeria, a subsidiary banking unit of Al Baraka Banking Group BSC (ABG), announced the signing of contracts for the establishment of the bank’s headquarters in the Algerian capital. The contracts were signed in Istanbul, Turkey i > read more

BMI Bank supports IMF/WB meetings

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahraini retail and commercial banking institution, BMI Bank announced its sponsorship of the Banks in Bahrain reception at the 2011 International Monetary Fund/World Bank Conference to be held in Washington D.C. on the 24th of September 2011. The ev > read more

Zain honours winners of e-waste recycling inititaive

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Four lucky winners for the month of June went home with new BlackBerry handsets, thanks to their green action of disposing their old and unusable mobile phone safely under the ongoing Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign. They ar > read more

Bahrain Air starts Istanbul flights

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahrain Air, the second national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, announced the start of direct flights to the commercial capital of Turkey, Istanbul. Bahrain Air will operate four flights a week this summer season to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Int > read more

Overwhelming majority of 94% attends the opening session of Bahrain’s National Dialogue

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With the participation of 94 per cent out of 300 invited delegates by the Chairman of the National Dialogue, the Kingdom of Bahrain entered into a new era of greater transparency and democracy by seeking consensus on national issues through discussio > read more

HRH Prince Salman holds talks with French President Sarkozy

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, met with French President Nicolas Sarkozy at The Élysée Palace, in the presence of Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa. H > read more

Gulf Air extends its wings to Copenhagen

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, commenced its services to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. The inaugural flight took off from Bahrain International Airport at 1:30 am landing at Copenhagen at 7:30 am. “With the commence > read more

European Union welcomes setting up a fact finding mission

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European and Vice-President of the EU Commission welcomed the move to set up a fact finding mission in Bahrain. “I welcome the establishment of > read more

KFH-B launches 6th mentorship programme

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

KFH-Bahrain, in association with InJaz Bahrain, announced the launch of the 6th Annual Bahrain Sophia Antipolis Mentorship Programme. The Programme is a joint initiative between Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain and InJaz Bahrain, a non-profit youth devel > read more

Interior Ministry warns for holding illegal protests

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Official Spokesman of the Interior Ministry Brigadier Tareq Al Hassan stated that a number of unlicensed demonstrations took place in the kingdom recently with the participation of a few numbers, asserting that security forces have dealt with them ac > read more

Majority of GCC businesses embrace social media

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Get social, get selling is a new approach adopted by the overwhelming majority of 66% businesses in the GCC which opened up a new era for the social networking across the board. The last year has seen half of companies in the Gulf successfully use so > read more

Lack of strategy costs millions to realty sector in the GCC

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

GCC real estate businesses collectively lose a significant amount of money by not adopting a strategic approach to communications planning, according to a study. “Our study estimates that money could be saved if more internal research was carried o > read more

Murabaha transactions take center stage at workshop

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and the Bahrain Financial Exchange (BFX) hosted a workshop at the CBB premises in the Diplomatic Area in which all Islamic bank licensees were invited to attend this workshop. The workshop focused on e-Tayseer which > read more

‘Bahrain remains an important financial centre in the GCC’

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Standard & Poor’s on Monday its latest report said that Bahrain would remain an important financial center in the GCC despite some challenges being faced from the peer Gulf States Dubai and Qatar. Answering a question how Bahrain can regai > read more

BBK-Markaz Fund-I produces robust performance

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

BBK, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, has declared the robust liquidation performance of ‘BBK – Markaz-I US Industrial Realty Fund’. BBK- Markaz-I was one of a real estate investment project established in 2002 by BBK and K > read more

Middle East lacks talent for its energy and utilities sectors

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The scarcity of Middle Eastern nationals in meaningful employment in the energy and utilities sector is beginning to be urgently addressed by governments in the GCC countries, according to Kenneth McKellar, partner and Middle East Energy and Resource > read more

Alba Chairman attends the National Dialogue

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The Chairman of Alba’s Board of Directors, Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji will represent Alba at the National Dialogue whose sessions officially commenced on Saturday, July 2, 2011. He expressed appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa > read more

BMI Bank appoints Eyad Yousif Sater as GM

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

BMI Bank announced a key appointment of an experienced Bahraini banker Eyad Yousif Sater as the new General Manager, Support Services. Eyad, who joins BMI Bank from his previous position as Head of National Bank of Bahrain’s international branch in > read more

Arab countries urge to take firm political stands

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and his Egyptian counterpart Dr. Essam Sharaf called upon Arab countries to unify their political stances, enhance their partnership and achieve complementarities between them. Th > read more

Bahrain assures full support to Egypt

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Bahrain paid a rich tribute to Egypt for its sincere supportive stance during the recent deplorable events in the Kingdom. His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa expressed his deep appreciation as he received at Al-Safriya Palace Egytian Prime Min > read more

Bahrain’s National Dialogue is a positive step

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Dr. Hala Sulabeekh from National Dialogue Society described the National Dialogue as a positive step for a brighter future of the Kingdom of Bahrain, hailing the active and positive participation of the social session which included 60 members repres > read more

Planning Ministry establishment seen as crucial

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

A leading Bahraini businessman Yousuf Mish’al emphasized that the economic axis during the session of national consensus dialogue witnessed proposals of views and visions related to boosting economic competitiveness and focused on the significance > read more

National Dialogue gets underway with high hopes

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

The first sessions of the National Consensus Dialogue, called by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to usher in a new phase of national work that will help shape the Kingdom’s future which kick started on Tuesday. The dialogue represents a c > read more

All is set for Bahrain’s National Dialogue

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

All is set for the Bahrain’s National Dialogue which will address four main themes, namely: political, economic, social and human rights under which 15 listed sub-themes, according to Bahrain’s National Dialogue spokesman Isa Abdul Rahman. He add > read more

Public rivets eyes on the outcome of the National Dialogue

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

With the first session of the National Dialogue kicks off on Tuesday, the public is riveting its eyes on the outcome of this important national debate aimed at ironing out the differences, if any, among the various segments of the society. On the day > read more

ASSE-MEC honours BAPCO

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

BAPCO was honoured at 10th Professional Development Conference and Exhibition organized by the American Society of Safety Engineers, the Middle East Chapter (ASSE-MEC), and held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 18-22 February 2012, under the patronage of HE the Minister of the Interior HE Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al-Khalifa in presence of key officials [...] > read more

Fitch downgrades Jordanian banks

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Fitch Ratings has downgraded Jordan-based Bank of Jordan (BOJ), Jordan Islamic Bank (JIB), The Housing Bank for Trade and Finance (HBTF), and Cairo Amman Bank’s (CABK) Support Ratings to ’4′ from ’3′. The Support Rating Floor for BOJ and JIB has been revised to ‘B+’ from ‘BB-’. These rating actions reflect a weakening in the [...] > read more

Bahraini team performs better during leg 4 of SATT

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Leg four of Sailing Arabia – the Tour was frustratingly slow for the nine-boat fleet but despite a lack of wind for most of the leg, the battle on the water was no less tense. Arriving in daylight for the first time since the tour began, the fleet entered Omani waters in the early hours [...] > read more

Public welfare remains government’s top priority

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa affirmed that the government’s initiatives to develop vital facilities are going on so as to achieve citizens’ welfare cater to their needs and press ahead with growth and development. He pointed out, during an inspection visit to King Hamad University Hospital today, that optimizing [...] > read more

LMRA chief discusses private clinics’ needs

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

LMRA CEO Osama Abdullah Al-Absi discussed the needs of private clinics during a meeting, held at the Authority’s Head Office with the Health Sector and Medical Services Committee in Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), and chaired by Dr. Khalid Al-Awadhi and attended by Dr. Hanan Marefi, Dr. Aysha Matar and Dr. Tariq Saeed. [...] > read more

HRH Premier lauds efforts of patriotic citizens

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His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister received a number of participants of Al-Fateh Gathering and thanked them for their genuinely patriotic feelings. HRH the Prime Minister reiterated support to all gatherings which seek to consolidate national unity, and standing with any awakening which raises awareness and emotions towards the [...] > read more

Consumer technology continues growth trends in 2012

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Demand for consumer technology will continue to advance in 2012 with record numbers of smartphones and tablets likely to be sold and demand from emerging markets, including the Middle East, for lower-cost televisions and computers boosting volumes, according to the predictions of Deloitte’s annual report on top technology trends for 2012, “Despite this upward trend [...] > read more

BIC thanks Bassioni for supporting Bahrain Grand Prix 2012

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The board and executive management at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) thanked Professor Mahmoud Cherif Bassiouni for his support of the 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Professor Bassiouni, Chairman of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI), sent a letter dated February 19, 2012, to Zayed Rashid Al Zayani, Chairman of the Board [...] > read more

BNH reports BD3.3m net profit for 2011

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The Board of Directors of Bahrain National Holding Company (BNH) reported Group’s positive consolidated results for the year 2011 with net profit of BD3.3 million compared to BD3.8 million for the same period last year. BNH Group in a statement said that despite the decrease in net profits, primarily due to lower investment returns, the [...] > read more

A.M. Best gets nod to open office at DIFC

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A.M. Best has obtained the necessary approvals to establish within the Dubai International Financial Centre in Dubai, UAE. The new office will operate as A.M. Best MENA, South and Central Asia, servicing clients throughout the region and developing new relationships to grow its insurance ratings franchise. Rating analytics will continue to be performed by teams [...] > read more

Shaikh Khalid meets with Hillary Clinton

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Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa today met US Secretary of State Dr. Hillary Clinton, on the sidelines of the International Friends of Syria, and discussed the Syrian issue and latest Arab, regional and international developments. The two sides also discussed strong bilateral relations and ways of boosting cooperation in all fields. [...] > read more

SIU to be set up at Attorney General’s Office

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The National Commission (NC) charged with overseeing the recommendations cited in the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) has received confirmation that the Attorney General will shortly announce the framework of an independent special investigations unit to be established within the office of the Attorney General and charged with the responsibility of determining accountability in [...] > read more

Etisalat sues Swan Telecom Promoters

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The Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat) has issued proceedings in the Indian Courts against Balwa, Goenka and Majestic Infracon Pvt Ltd for fraud and misrepresentation. Etisalat’s case is that it was induced into its investment in the company that was then Swan, without any disclosure of the matters that are now alleged by the CBI and [...] > read more

Etihad Airways organises a road-show in London, NY

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The roadshows, held in New York and London, attracted several hundred bankers from some of the world’s largest financial institutions. Business interest in the financial affairs of Etihad Airways has surged in the wake of the airline’s historic 2011 profit announcement and equity investments in other airlines. Earlier this month the national carrier of the [...] > read more

Dr. Fakhro praises StanChart Bank role in Bahrain

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro confirmed what have been accomplished by banking sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain in enhancing economic growth and stimulate investment movement in this sector, in addition to attracting more foreign investment in Bahrain. This came during a meeting with the Minister yesterday morning with CEO of Standard Charted [...] > read more

Kofi Anan becomes special envoy on Syria

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The United Nations has announced that the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Nabil Elaraby appointed former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan as the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, in accordance with the General Assembly resolution A/RES/66/253 [...] > read more

Bahrain’s FM attends Friends of Syria Conference

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The Minister of Foreign Affairs Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohamed Al-Khalifa participated in the International Friends of Syria Conference in Tunis. The meeting comes within the framework of Arab and international efforts to solve the Syrian crisis. This in addition to a framework Plan set by Arab countries to bring peace and stability to [...] > read more

Expo City project on the right track

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In the context of following up the project of the planned Sakhir-based Expo City, Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro received Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company Chief Executive Officer Talal Al-Zain and Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Authority (BECA) CEO Hassan Jaafar. During the meeting, they discussed the current arrangements for implementing this project, in line [...] > read more

ABG net income up 10% to $212m in 2011

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Bahrain-based leading Islamic banking group, Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG), reported a net income of $212 million in 2011, an increase of 10% on the income achieved in 2010. Total assets increased by 8%, total financing and investments by 4%, deposits including equity of investment account-holders by 8% at the end of December 2011 in [...] > read more

Kuwait honours Bahrain’s eGovernment Authority

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State of Kuwait has honored the Bahrain eGovernment Authority (eGA) for its vital contributions to the eGovernment and ICT fields. The honoring ceremony took place during the 18th Waqfi Forum, which was organized by Awqaf Public Foundation in Kuwait, under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al [...] > read more

Cathay Pacific honours Bahrain Airport Company

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Cathay Pacific Airways Country Manager Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Daniel Cheung presented the Betsy memento to Bahrain Airport Company Vice President Commercial and Marketing Mohamed Khalil for the support during the year 2011. The honouring ceremony was attended by Shawqi Al Bin Mohammed Airport Manager Cathay Pacific Airways, left, Syed Sohail Ali Assistant Manager Online [...] > read more

Around 1185 cases of National Safety Court shelved

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Bahrain’s Supreme Judicial Council on Saturday announced that the committee set up to implement Bahrain’s Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) recommendations has completed its work regarding the implementation of recommendation No. 1720 included in BICI report. The committee revealed that 165 conviction verdicts were handed down by the National Safety Courts to 502 convicts. The [...] > read more

Final stage is set for SATT sailing teams

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The participating teams in the Sailing Arabia – The Tour (SATT) were officially welcomed into Omani waters during the official prize giving ceremony for leg four of the tour. The event was held under the patronage of Her Excellency Maitha Bint Saif Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Tourism where the Omani flagged Team [...] > read more

Tamkeen enhances EDSP to 25,00 enterprises

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Business owners in Bahrain are set to benefit from a number of major enhancements to Tamkeen’s Enterprise Development Support Programme. The flagship programme, which seeks to improve the productivity and efficiency of Bahrain-based enterprises, comes as part of Tamkeen’s efforts to deliver accessible business support services. With 2,500 enterprises targeted to benefit from the programme [...] > read more

Sharjah-German Business Council discuss cooperation

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Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) held a meeting with the German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry and commerce at the Authority’s headquarters in Al Qasba, during which means of activating joint cooperation in investment between Sharjah and Germany were discussed. The meeting was attended by Shurooq delegation led by Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO [...] > read more

Fitch revises ratings on four Tunisian leasing Cos

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Fitch Ratings has revised Tunisie Leasing, Arab Tunisian Lease, Compagnie Internationale de Leasing and Attijari Leasing’s subordinated debt issues’ National Long-term ratings. Fitch’s review is part of a broad review of Fitch-rated subordinated debts. All the four Tunisian leasing companies’ rated subordinated debt issues are Lower Tier 2 issues. Tunisie Leasing, Arab Tunisian Lease, Compagnie [...] > read more

Sharjah Islamic Bank wins award

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Sharjah Islamic Bank has won recently the ‘Best Structure Award’ under the Islamic banks category and received a Certificate of Excellence by Pan Arab Web Awards 2012. Pan Arab Web Awards was created to recognize excellence in web design, development and web ownership skills to showcase their creativity in a competition for the best website [...] > read more

Etihad to launch non-stop flight to Washington

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Etihad Airways announced the launch of non-stop daily flights to Washington, D.C., the airline’s fourth destination in North America, from March 31 2013, subject to regulatory approvals. The Washington region is home to America’s second largest market flying to the Middle East, after New York. Etihad Airways’ new service will link D.C. with Abu Dhabi, [...] > read more

Emirates adds 2000 additional seats weekly to Newcastle

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Emirates, is set to add more than 2,000 seats a week to and from Newcastle when it introduces a larger aircraft on its daily flight to Dubai from 1st September. A 428-seat Boeing 777-300ER, the longest aircraft to ever operate from Newcastle, will replace a 278-seat Airbus A330-200 on the route – a capacity increase [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro makes surprise visits to major markets, malls

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In line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa to keep commodity prices in an affordable bracket, the Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr Hassan Fakhro continued weekly visits to the all major markets, malls and major retail outlets. Continue with its efforts to enhance control and [...] > read more

World’s first green broadband Co debuts in Bahrain

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The Kingdom of Bahrain, which was the first country in the region to deregulate its telecommunication sector, becomes the first country in the world to have the green broadband company. This was announced by the George El Aily, Chief Operating Officer and Co-founder of Greenisis, during a ceremony attended by the President of the Information [...] > read more

RUW takes a field trip to Belguim and France

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Dr. Vivien Exartier, Assistant Professor of Business and Financial Sciences and International Programs Officer and Dr.Jameela Mukhaimer, Dean of Student Affairs accompanied 12 students from different departments at the Royal University for Women to France and Belgium on a 10 days educational trip. They attended several briefings, visited public and government institutions, universities and companies [...] > read more

Over 2000 delegates to attend GEO 2012

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The Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre is set to play host to a critical exchange of professional insights and technological innovations aimed at maximising the discovery of oil and gas during the 10th Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (GEO 2012). As geoscientists strive towards innovative solutions to meet rising global hydrocarbon demand in [...] > read more

Bahrain, China to bolster commercial ties

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Finance Minister Shaikh Ahmad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa met with the Deputy Governor of Nanchia at the People’s Republic of China Lee Roy and his accompanied delegation, along with representatives of the privates sector of the petrochemicals, textiles, clothing and food industries. During the meeting, both sides discussed the ways of developing the bilateral relations [...] > read more

BCCI Chief seeks reinstatement of sacked employees

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The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Chairman Dr. Esam Abdullah Fakhro announced the reinstatement of dismissed staff sacked in the aftermath of the unfortunate events that occurred in the Kingdom of Bahrain last year, in compliance with the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and in response to the [...] > read more

Bahrain remains one family: HRH Premier

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa received at the Gudaibiya Palace on Sunday, in the presence of the Chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs Shaikh Abdullah Bin Khalid Al Khalifa and the Shura and Representatives Councils’ Chairmen Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh and Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Dhahrani, [...] > read more

Public funds expediency must be a priority: HRH Premier

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His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa issued directives for controlling the public expenditures, curbing waste and saving consumption as well as boosting control over and optimization of usage of human and financial resources and seeking to increase of economic growth up to highest standards and implementing procedures capable of containment of global economic [...] > read more

Interior Minister rejects foreign interference

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Minister of Interior Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa rejected any foreign interfere in Bahrain’s internal affairs on any pretext. Minister of Interior, who received number of personalities who at his weekly majlis which is open for public in order to constantly communicate with all the various segments of the community, said highlighted the [...] > read more

Six Bahraini women die in traffic accident

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The General Director of Traffic has said that six Bahraini women died in an accident on Shaikh Isa bin Salman Highway on Saturday night. He said that the Directorate received a call at 9:55pm informing about an accident on Avenue 27 linked to Shaikh Isa bin Salman Highway. The Traffic patrols rushed to the scene [...] > read more

Fire gutted nine warehouses in Central Market

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Acting Director of the Civil Defense said that fire fighting units were able to extinguish a fire that broke out on Monday morning in several storage facilities at the central market allegedly due to electric short-circuit. The official said that the operation headquarters receive a call at 8:30 am following which the civil defense units [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro hold talks with MAF official

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Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr. Hassan Abdullah Fakhro received Majid Al Futtaim Group’s Regional Director of Business Development in Bahrain and Qatar Khalid Al Ajmi. The Minister expressed the Government’s and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s welcome of all investors, particularly those who contribute in one way or another to boosting the economic [...] > read more

Minister Energy opens 66 KV Power Plant

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Minister of Energy, Dr. Abdul Hussain Bin Ali Mirza inaugurated 66KV Bahrain International Investment Power Plant. Dr. Mirza reviewed the power plant’s sections and components including transformers, high and low voltage breakers, control systems and modern equipment supplied, and was briefed by Deputy Chief executive for planning and projects about the construction stages, power capacity [...] > read more

Sailing Arabia race 2012 finishes in a style in Oman

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After 15 days, 1408 kilometres and seven ports, the nine competing teams in Sailing Arabia – the Tour reached their final destination in Muscat, Oman today (February 27), where the French on Courrier Dunkerque were crowned Sailing Arabia – the Tour Champions, 2012. Under the Patronage of His Highness Sayyid Harib bin Thuwani al Said, [...] > read more

Bahrain finishes Sailing Arabia race at 7th position

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The Kingdom of Bahrain one of the nine teams which took part in the Sailing Arabia-The Tour 2011 (SATT 2012) finished in an overall 7th position, a good performance by the inexperienced and young members of the team. The SATT 2012 represented six nations, have visited four countries on the tour, starting in Bahrain on [...] > read more

Works Ministry becomes first to conduct public survey

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Assistant Undersecretary Ahmed A.Aziz Al Khayat, who spearheaded the survey project, termed the initiative to get the pulse of satisfaction first of its kind in Bahrain. “In our previous meetings with you and your colleagues on this subject, you expressed an interest in knowing the results of our Public Survey, which as His Excellency has [...] > read more

Works Ministry achieves major milestones in 2011

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Essam Khalaf, Minister of Works, on Monday said that despite the overall slowdown in 2011, the Ministry of Works had carried out major projects across the Kingdom beating the 2010 tenders’ figures by 40%. Engineer Esam briefing media at his offices said that 2012 was also kicked off in an aggressive manner with nine tenders [...] > read more

Nass Corporation turnover reaches BD88m

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Nass Corporation Board of Directors in a meeting Monday reviewed and approved the financial results of the company for the year ended 31st December 2011. Announcing the results the Nass Corporation B.S.C., Deputy Chairman, Samir Abdulla Nass said that the company had achieved a gross turnover of BD 88.756 million (BD 107.576 million for 2010) [...] > read more

Elaf Bank CEO Dr El Jaroudi resigns

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Bahrain-headquartered and branch office in Malaysia Elaf Bank, a wholesale Islamic bank licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), announced that Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jamil El Jaroudi will depart at the end of this month to pursue other opportunities. Dr El Jaroudi has been running Elaf Bank since its inception in 2007 and [...] > read more

KFH-B offers training to a group of InJAz

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain (KFH-B) welcomed a group of students from the University of Bahrain participating in inJAz Bahrain’s ‘Company’ programme, an initiative that enables students to acquire well-informed understanding of the work environment and instil entrepreneurial skills in them. The students were placed in various departments throughout the Bank during a two-week internship programme. The [...] > read more

BMI Bank wins three Pan Arab Banking Web Awards

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Bahraini retail and commercial banking institution, BMI Bank announced that it had won a record number of three awards at the 3rd Pan Arab Banking Web Awards held in Beirut, Lebanon. BMI Bank received the Best Technical Award, Best Creativity Award as well as the Best Structure Award for its sites under the group site [...] > read more

Zain Group shines at Mobile Congress in Barcelona

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Zain Group announced its participation at the Mobile World Congress, which officially opened in Barcelona, in the presence of telecommunications and ICT leaders from across the world. Zain is actively participating in the conference, organized by the GSMA, and is represented by a high-level delegation led by Zain Group CEO, Nabeel Bin Salamah and a [...] > read more

BBK signs loan facility with WJ Towell Group of Oman

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BBK, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, has recently arranged and underwritten term loan and working capital facilities for the WJ Towell Group, one of the leading business groups in the Sultanate of Oman. The agreement between the two parties for these credit facilities was recently signed at a ceremony in the month of [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro bids farewell to Dr Abdulla Mansour

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The Ministry of Industry and Commerce organized an honouring ceremony in recognition to the great efforts made by undersecretary of Commerce Affairs Dr. Abdulla Mansour, where industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro honoured him on the occasion of his retirement. Dr. Fakhro confirmed Ministry keen to honor all hard working employees who spent serving [...] > read more

ICICI Prudential scoops Gulf Lipper Fund Awards 2012

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ICICI Prudential scooped two Group awards at the Gulf Lipper Fund Awards 2012, which was held at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers hotel in Dubai. India-based ICICI Prudential was honoured with the Best Fund Group Overall and the Best Bond Fund Group in the Gulf region in recognition of its strong risk-adjusted performance and returns. Other [...] > read more

SICO reports operating income of BD4.63m for 2011

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Bahrain-based regional investment bank, Securities & Investment Company (SICO), announced operating income for 2011 was BD 4.63 million compared with BD 7.85 million for the previous year. The bank said its net profit declined to BD 488,000 from BD 3.785 million in 2010. Basic earnings per share fell to fils 1.145 versus fils 8.9 in [...] > read more

Etisalat selects Jasper Wireless

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Etisalat has selected Jasper Wireless, the leading connected devices platform for machine-to-machine (M2M) and consumer electronics, during the MWC 2012 to wirelessly connect machine-to-machine (M2M) and consumer electronics devices across Etisalat’s mobile network properties. Etisalat will use the Jasper Wireless platform to accelerate market entry of new categories of connected devices on its network and [...] > read more

Etisalat tops the ladder among UAE’s top 50 Cos

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Etisalat ranked first among the most 50 powerful companies in the UAE, based on its market value and financial performance, according to a study conducted by the Arabian Business Group. Etisalat’s market`s value reached AED 75.6 billion, doubling the value of the winning company in second rank. The companies were evaluated based on their market [...] > read more

Barclays Wealth bolsters its team in Africa

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Barclays Wealth, a leading global wealth manager, announced the appointment of Philippe Hofer as Managing Director and Market Head for Africa Offshore within International Private Bank, Europe Middle East and Africa (IPB EMEA). Based in Geneva, Philippe will have a dual reporting line into Nomkhita Nqweni, Market Manager, Africa, and Patrick Ramsey, Head of Barclays [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Public Prosecution gets Investigations Unit

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The Attorney General announced today that it has completed the formation of a special investigatory unit within the office of the Public Prosecution that is dedicated to determining accountability for the events of last year. The BICI recommended establishing a national, independent and impartial mechanism to determine the accountability of those who have committed unlawful [...] > read more

Leading bankers attend Tamkeen briefing

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Tamkeen as part of its continued public consultations regarding its 2012 Operational Plan, met with the Banking and Finance Sector to share and discuss the plan. As per the 2012 Operational Plan, BD 107 million has been allocated for Tamkeen’s nearly 180 projects and programmes, with 20 new initiatives slated for launch during the current [...] > read more

StandChart PLC reports $6.7b operating profit

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Standard Chartered PLC has announced a ninth consecutive year of record profits and income in 2011. Its continued performance is underpinned by strong capital and liquidity and multiple sources of income across the faster-growing markets of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Income was up 10 per cent to $17.64 billion and operating profit increased [...] > read more

Adnan Yousif to lead Al Baraka Sudan Board

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Al Baraka Bank Sudan, one of the banking units of Al Baraka Banking Group, (ABG) announced that the Board of the Bank has elected Adnan Ahmed Yousif, President and Chief Executive of Al Baraka Banking Group as Chairman of the Board of Directors to succeed late Othman Ahmed Suleiman. The Board of Directors also announced [...] > read more

Middle East passengers traffic up 14.5% in Jan

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The Middle East airlines recorded double-digit traffic growth in January, posting a 14.5% increase, according to latest figures. This was by far the largest rate of growth for any region and represents a return to the rates experienced in 2010. Capacity rose 10.6%. Load factor climbed 2.7 points to 78.5%, among the highest of the [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro holds talks with Japanese delegation

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro held talks with the visiting head of the Japanese delegation Deputy Director-General at Manufacturing Industries Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Satoshi Miyamoto accompanied with Assistant Director Nobuyuki Matsumoto in the presence of Japanese Ambassador Shigeki Sumi and Commercial Attaché Hiroyuki Mitsui. The Minister welcomed the delegation, [...] > read more

Barclays capital launches special research coverage

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Barclays Capital announced the launch of Special Opportunities Equity Research coverage. The coverage team will provide fundamental research on select companies that predominantly reside in the small- and mid-capitalization space. The team will provide a stock rating, price target and earnings per share estimate for each company under coverage. The Special Opportunities team, led by [...] > read more

Minister Industry and Commerce chairs SMEs meeting

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro presided over the first committee meeting to follow up problems and constraints that face small and medium enterprises, in light of Ministers Council decree number “2145-09” to assign the ministry of Industry and Commerce to follow up small and medium problems in cooperation and coordination with relevant authorities. [...] > read more

BBK honours star workers for 2011

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BBK announced the 2011 winners of the STAR Service Excellence Award, within the category of the Best employee in each frontline role within its Retail Banking Division for 2011. All Retail Banking employees who had direct contact with customers throughout 2011, had the chance to vie for this honuor, where the key criteria are Excellence [...] > read more

GIB wins two Global Finance Magazine awards

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New York-based Global Finance magazine has announced the winners of its World’s Best Investment Banks Awards for 2012. Gulf International Bank (GIB) has won two awards i.e. Best Equity Bank in the Middle East and Best Investment Bank in Bahrain. The editors, with input from industry experts, used a series of criteria to arrive at [...] > read more

ASRY spends $7m on training of the staff

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The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY) achieved a major milestone in trading and development of the staff with spending around $7 million on the training, thanks to the company’s five year initiative. One of ASRY’s specific initiatives in this period of reinvestment was the commitment to Bahrainization directed by the Board of Directors under [...] > read more

Etihad Airways launches direct flight Shanghai

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Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has commenced scheduled flights between its hub in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, China. The airline will initially operate five weekly Airbus A330-300 services to Shanghai’s main international airport, Pudong (PVG), with commitments to a daily schedule from April 15. The President and Chief Executive [...] > read more

Bapco and EDB discuss mutual beneficial plans

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Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) received an eight member delegation from the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB). The EDB is a dynamic public agency with an overall responsibility for formulating and overseeing the economic development strategy of Bahrain, and for creating the right climate to attract direct investment into the Kingdom. Bapco’s delegation was led by [...] > read more

US Ambassador visits Bapco and the Refinery

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Thomas C. Krajeski, the US Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain visited BAPCO and upon arrival, he was received by the Chief Executive, Gordon Smith and a number of Bapco’s senior management members. Smith thanked the US Ambassador for visiting Bapco and conveyed to him greetings and best wishes of Minister of Energy, Chairman of [...] > read more

Sakana benefits from Tamkeen’s career programme

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Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions announced that its employees are benefitting from the Career Progression Programme offered by Tamkeen across various fields such as Human Resources, Marketing, Finance and Accounting. Khalid Al Balushi, Assistant Manager Human Resources and Administration successfully completed Diploma in Human Resource Practice (HRP) from Chartered Institute of Personnel Development UK through Tamkeen’s [...] > read more

Bahrain implements BICI recommendations on time

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The Government of Bahrain has submitted its report on implementation of the BICI recommendations to the National Commission on Wednesday, who in turn announced that most recommendations were fully implemented. A few remaining recommendations require additional legislation and further development, such as addressing professional standards for the media, developing education programs promoting tolerance, compensating those [...] > read more

Etisalat: the most powerful company in UAE: Forbes

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Etisalat received a prestigious award from Forbes Middle East for being the most powerful company in the UAE. The award was received by Ali Al Ahmed, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Etisalat UAE on behalf of His Excellency Mohammad Omran, Etisalat chairman at a ceremony held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid [...] > read more

BIBF Specific Council holds first meeting for year 2012

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The Specific Council for Vocational Training (Banking Sector) held its first meeting for the year 2012 chaired by Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain. The Chairman welcomed the new council members. The Council reviewed all activities and progress of the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) as well as [...] > read more

Emirates touches down in Seattle

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Emirates launched the first direct air bridge between the Middle East and America’s Northwest, as its inaugural service from Dubai departed for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. With two dynamic and fast-growing regions now more closely linked, Emirates’ Seattle service will generate a host of economic benefits; from boosting imports and exports to creating new markets for [...] > read more

GFH turnaround plan yields positive results

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Bahrain’s one of the oldest investment banks, Gulf Finance House (GFH), on Thursday announced a net profit of $381,000 for 2011 compared with the loss of $349million in 2010. Announcing the financials for the year ending 31 December 2011, the bank said it returned to profitability despite a challenging year underscored by shortfalls in market [...] > read more

Bahrain to launch the Universal Periodic Review

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The Ministry for Human Rights and Social Development launched the Second National Report on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Bahrain’s Human Rights, which will be presented before the Human Rights Council on the 5th of March 2012. The report was prepared in compliance with the standards of preparing National Reports to the Universal Periodic [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Human Rights Minister meets Navi Pillai

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On the sidelines of the high-level part of the nineteenth session held by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Minister of Human Rights and Social Development, Dr. Fatima bint Mohammed Al-Balooshi met with UN Human Rights Council Commissioner, Navitham Pillai. Both sides reviewed cooperation between the Ministry and the High Commission in the field [...] > read more

Customs revenues reach BD103m in 2011

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Bahrain Customs revenues reached BD103.3 million in 2011. Customs Affairs President Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa released the annual figures, describing the dividends as citing that remarkable despite last year’s February-March unrest. The Customs Affairs President highlighted the development projects currently underway thanks to the directives and the support of the Interior Minister Lieutenant-General [...] > read more

Saboteurs attack anti-narcotics force: Police

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Two people allegedly involved in selling hashish have been arrested in Sitra. “Police caught the suspected drug dealers following a tip-off”, General Directorate of Criminal Investigation Directorate of Forensic Science director general said. Two officers and an anti-drug squad policeman suffered minor injuries as the suspects’ resisted arrest, deliberately smashing their car into the patrol [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Education Minister takes part in GEF in Dubai

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Education Minister Dr. Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi has attended the opening session of the fifth edition of the Global Education Forum (GEF) themed: “Teaching and Learning in the Knowledge and Technology Era” and the Gulf Educational Supplies Exhibition, held under the auspices of the UAE Vice-President, Premier and Dubai Ruler Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid [...] > read more

Speaker Parliament to lead Bahrain delegation to IPU

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Chairman of the Representatives Council Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Dhahrani will head the Parliamentary Delegation to the 18th Conference of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) due to hosted by Kuwait from March 4 to 6. The delegation includes MPs Abdulla Al-Dusary, Ahmed Bahzad, Jassim Al Saidi, Hamad Al Nuaimi, Abdulhakim Al Shammari and Adnan Al [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Spring of Culture Festival kicks off

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A spectacular entertainment with star-studded acts from across the globe will light up Bahrain as part of the Spring of Culture Festival that opened on Thursday. The festival kicked off at the Bahrain National Museum with a tribute performance to Arab world’s legendary singer Umm Kulthum. Organisers have promised a rich and diverse programme with [...] > read more

Shaikh Salman participates in the Porsche GT3 Cup in Qatar

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Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, one of the region’s busiest and most influential motor racing figures, swaps his lead role at Bahrain International Circuit this weekend for a rare appearance behind the wheel in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East in Qatar. The BIC Chief Executive is in a record line-up of 18 [...] > read more

Human Rights Minister meets with Mauritanian Commissioner

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Dr. Al-Balooshi met with Mauritanian Commissioner for human rights and relations with civil society institutions Mohamed Ould Abdallah Ould Khatra and Mauritanian Permanent Representative and Head of the Arab Group Sheikh Ahmed Ould Zahaf. Talks focused issues featuring on the agenda of the 19th (UNHRC) session and the need to coordinate pan-Arab stances. Dr. Al-Balooshi [...] > read more

Dr Al Balooshi meets with her Tunisian counterpart

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Human Rights and Social Development Minister Dr. Fatima bint Mohammed Al-Balooshi met with Tunisian Human Rights and Transitional Justice Minister Samir Dilou and discussed the ways promoting bilateral relations. The meeting was on the sidelines of the 19th session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Dr. Al-Balooshi outlined human rights developments in the Kingdom, [...] > read more

CFO optimism plummets to a two-year low in Q4

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Global CFO optimism is wavering, according to a recent study by Deloitte entitled ‘Q4 2011 Global CFO Signals Report’. Conducted on a semi-annual basis for the past two years in the Middle Eastern region, the Deloitte CFO survey is the only report for major corporate users of capital that gauges attitudes towards the general economic [...] > read more

Batelco unveils new SimSim packages

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Batelco has announced a one month special offer for its prepaid SimSim customers. Up until March 29th, SimSim customers can avail of a great deal for more saving of money that gives them the opportunity to add up to 145 local minutes of call time to all operators with special reduced rates for as low [...] > read more

Minister carries out visits to check local markets

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As part of ongoing campaign aimed at ensuring the supply chain and pricing of the commodities, the Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr Hassan Fakhro carried out visits to the major markets and malls on Saturday. The Minister along with his top members of the team visited Al Jazeera Supermarket, Lebanese Center as well as [...] > read more

Minister Energy opens GEO 2012 on Sunday

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Over 2,000 oil and gas professionals will converge at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre on Sunday for the conference opening session of the 10th Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (GEO 2012). The associated 14,000 square metre exhibition of oil and gas exploration industry products and services will open in a separate ceremony [...] > read more

Emirates celebrates Boeing’s 1,000th 777

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Emirates, celebrated the unveiling of the 1,000th Boeing 777 during a special event at the manufacturer’s plant in Everett, Washington State. Emirates is the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 777 and the landmark aircraft will become the 102nd to join the airline’s 777 fleet when it is delivered later this month. The factory celebration [...] > read more

Zain Bahrain’s e-waste campaign enters its 2nd year

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The unique and very successful Zain National Mobile Phone and e-Waste Recycling Campaign which was flagged off in March 2011 enters its second year and the company’s commitment to making a difference in the environment as strong as ever. The campaign was the first ever to offer the public an opportunity to safely dispose old [...] > read more

Etisalat wins three top GSMA awards

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Etisalat, a leading telecommunications company with operations in 17 markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, has won three of the sector’s most prestigious international awards at Mobile World Congress, the global event held annually in Barcelona, Spain. Etisalat received two GSMA Global Mobile Awards in the ‘Best Mobile Health Innovation’ and ‘mWomen Best [...] > read more

Bahrain puts the record straight over AI decision

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In response to Amnesty’s cancellation of its visit to Bahrain, the government of Bahrain wishes to provide the following clarification to representatives of international non-governmental organisations wishing to come to Bahrain for the purposes of their work. As in other countries, Bahrain has a visa regime to govern the entry of all visitors to the [...] > read more

Felix Air touches down at Bahrain International Airport

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Felix Airways announced the arrival of its inaugural direct flight to Bahrain from the city of Aden as a ceremony was held at the Bahrain International Airport to mark this historic occasion. The ceremony was attended by Felix Air’s Chief Executive Graham Henderson, Vice Ambassador of Yemen and a number of officials from Bahrain Airport [...] > read more

English Premier League Trophy arrives in Bahrain

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VIVA Bahrain, official partner of Manchester United, welcomed the English Premier League Trophy and United legend Andrew Cole as hundreds of football enthusiasts across the country got the chance to meet Manchester United legend Andrew Cole and have their picture taken with the famous English Premier League Trophy at the Bahrain City Centre. The event [...] > read more

Zain to bring Windows Phone devices to the MENA

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During the Mobile World Congress held last week in Barcelona, Zain Group entered into an agreement with Microsoft Middle East and Africa to bring Windows Phone devices to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The planned launch of Windows Phone software later this year, jointly with smartphone devices from selected manufacturers, will target business [...] > read more

KHCB continues network expansion in Bahrain

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Khaleeji Commercial Bank, which held its Annual General Meeting for the financial year 2012, said that it continued expansion in Bahrain as part of the bank’s strategy to reach its customers. “The year 2011, which was the 7th successive year since the Bank commenced operations, was full of challenges. The economic environment and business market [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Dadabhai signs GDS agreement with Travelport

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Global travel services provider Travelport has signed a multi-year global distribution system (GDS) deal with Bahrain-based Dadabhai Travel. The Manama-based agency is a long-standing partner of Travelport and under the terms of the renewed agreement, has committed to increase its bookings through Travelport’s Galileo platform. According to Dadabhai, this heightened commitment is a sign of [...] > read more

BMI Bank launches Salaf Plus range of loans

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BMI Bank announced the launch of its new range of loans offering eligible customers the opportunity to receive the highest loan amount in the market at the lowest possible monthly installment through the introduction of a balloon payment on maturity. The Salaf Plus auto, mortgage and personal loans will complement the Bank’s existing loan bouquet [...] > read more

Optimism on growth prospects retruns

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There is some optimism regarding growth prospects for 2012 among Middle East intermediaries and investors, according to the latest poll carried out by Invesco Asset Management Limited. The results of the poll conducted during Invesco’s sixth annual Dubai Investment meeting, which was attended by 329 intermediaries, reveal that more than two fifths (38%) of the [...] > read more

GEO 2012 kicks off in Bahrain

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With the participation of over 2000 delegates and experts, the 10th Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (GEO 2012), themed “The Future of Geosciences in the Middle East”, kicked off on Sunday. The event will run till March 7 at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, got underway today in Bahrain under the auspices of [...] > read more

US Navy conducts search and rescue for Iranian mariners

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Coastal patrol craft USS Firebolt (PC 10) and the US Coast Guard Cutter Maui (WPB 1304), assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 55, conducted a search and rescue mission for survivors of a capsized Iranian cargo dhow, in the North Arabian Gulf. At approximately 11 a.m. local time, on March 3, Firebolt spotted a life [...] > read more

Bahrain’s cabinet condemns attacks on police

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Deputy Premier Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, who chaired the Cabinet regular weekly meeting at the Gudaibiya Palace on Sunday, condemned, in the strongest terms, the targeting of security officers and citizens. The Cabinet also denounced all instigative calls to violate laws and regulations and exploitation of religious platforms to undermine the deep-rooted Bahraini [...] > read more

Batelco launches Galaxy Nexus in Bahrain

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Batelco, the Kingdom’s leading mobile services provider, is delighted to announce the launch of GALAXY Nexus in the Kingdom’s market. GALAXY Nexus is the world’s first smartphone running Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich, the latest release of the Android. Other GALAXY Nexus features include a 4.65” HD Super AMOLED display technology at 720p resolution, a [...] > read more

VIVA emerges as a strong telecom brand

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VIVA Bahrain, the third entrant in the mobile telephony two years ago, claimed to have created a strong brand by setting a new benchmark in innovation and competitiveness in the telecom market of Bahrain. Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO on Sunday said that VIVA would continue to invest in infrastructure, products and services as part [...] > read more

CMA and ICT Middle East sign training agreement

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International Compliance Training Middle East (ICT Middle East), one of the region’s leading providers of professional trainings in the field of compliance and anti-money laundering, has announced their involvement in a significant new training agreement. ICT Middle East will deliver two certificated programmes in Anti-Money Laundering and in Compliance. Both programmes are aimed at professionals [...] > read more

Batelco participates in UoB Career Day

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Batelco Bahrain Chief Executive, Rashid Abdulla, and General Manager Human Resources Suhaila Alnowakhda along with other Batelco representatives attended the opening of the 12th University of Bahrain (UoB) Career Day, which was held under the patronage of UoB President Dr. Ebrahim Mohammed Janahi. The opening, which was held at the University campus in Sakhir, saw [...] > read more

Tamkeen to launch Youth Awards

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As part of its efforts to foster and develop entrepreneurship in Bahrain, Tamkeen will launch the “Mashroo3i” Youth Business Awards. The pioneering initiative will enable Bahrain’s budding entrepreneurs to showcase their creative business ideas in a nation-wide competition. Bahrainis from the age of 16 to 23 will be eligible to enter the competition, which will [...] > read more

Gulf Air renews IT partnership with Microsoft

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The national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain Gulf Air announced the renewal of its strategic IT partnership with IT giant Microsoft with the signing of ‘Enterprise Agreement.’ Under the agreement, signed between Samer Majali, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air and Tareq Hijazi, Country Manager for Microsoft in the Kingdom of Bahrain and Sultanate [...] > read more

BMI Bank launches promotion on its credit cards

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Bahrain’s BMI Bank announced the launch of a refreshed ‘swipe to spin and win’ promotion on its range of credit cards including its Diners Club card. The campaign, which runs from 1st March 2012 to 31st December 2012 (excluding 1st July to 21st August 2012 when the Bank will run an independent promotion), is open [...] > read more

Air Arabia takes delivery of 2012 first aircraft

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Air Arabia, has taken delivery of its first A320 aircraft in 2012, bringing its total fleet to 30 aircraft. Air Arabia has now received nine of the 44 A320 aircraft it has ordered from Airbus in 2007. Air Arabia expects a total of six aircraft will be delivered in 2012. Once completed in 2016, the [...] > read more

Fitch affirms Riyad Bank at A+ with a stable outlook

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed Saudi Arabia-based Riyad Bank’s (RB) long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘A+’ with a stable outlook and its Viability Rating (VR) at ‘a’. RB’s Long- and Short-term IDRs, Support Rating and Support Rating Floor reflect the extremely high probability that support would be forthcoming from the Saudi authorities if required, given [...] > read more

Euromoney hosts private banking conference

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Representatives from a wide range of financial institutions, including the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), the OECD, Credit Suisse, Investcorp, UBS, National Bank of Bahrain, Ahli United Bank, Arcapita, Arab Bank, Premier Group, Mumtalakat, DBS, Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi, BNP Paribas, Citi and Goldman Sachs will take part in a special event focused on private [...] > read more

VIVA doubles broadband data for customers

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VIVA Bahrain announced in a press conference the launch of a special broadband promotion offering exclusive internet packages with double the data allowance to all post-paid customers and 50% extra data allowance on recharge to all prepaid customers. New post-paid and prepaid customers subscribing before 31st of March will benefit from this offer from the [...] > read more

Zain Bahrain joins Microsoft Imagine Cup 2012

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Microsoft announced that Zain Bahrain has entered in an official agreement to support youth as they compete in the Bahrain round of the world’s premier student technology competition, Imagine Cup 2012. Now in its tenth year, the competition will provide students of Bahrain an opportunity to ‘Imagine a world where technology helps solve the toughest [...] > read more

AAPG and SEG to join forces for Middle East office

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The American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) will bring together the combined knowledge of the two largest geosciences societies in the world to open a joint office in Dubai, UAE. The joint office will facilitate service provision to members in the Middle East, India and North Africa and [...] > read more

Nass Corp brings unique motor-grader

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NASS Commercial, a division of Nass Corporation completed the delivery of a shipment of a new Series B generation CASE Motor-grader to Bahrain. A special ceremony was held at Nass Commercial’s Service Center and the CASE Grader 885B was delivered to the clients, Waheed Ebrahim and Samad Assiri, Managing Directors of Globalco Company in front [...] > read more

Cluttons launches new networking event in Bahrain

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Cluttons has brought a new networking event platform to the Kingdom of Bahrain. The first BRED event aimed to shine the spotlight on to professional experts and industry spokespeople – brining like-minded property professional together and encouraging industry dialogue, demonstrating Clutton’s commitment to the development and progression of the property industry in the region. Highlights [...] > read more

Global Takaful industry could reach $25b

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The global takaful industry has witnessed tremendous growth and strong performance over the last several years with recent reports indicating that the industry could hit the $25 billion mark provided that the current growth trajectory is maintained. David McLean, Chief Executive of the World Takaful Conference ahead of 7th Annual World Takaful Conference (WTC 2012) [...] > read more

Bahrain’s business climate outlook positive

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Bahrain being the banking and financial center enjoys a strong business outlook for 2012, a senior official at Citibank Bahrain said. Navneet Kampani, Consumer Banking Head Citibank Bahrain, who announced the launch of the new PremierMiles Visa Credit Card, said that challenging conditions have always been part of businesses in each territory but Citibank would [...] > read more

Bahrain hosts 415 banks and financial institutions

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The Kingdom of Bahrain has sustained growth patterns in attracting financial institutions in 2011 despite some challenging business climate across the region. The Economic Development Board in a statement confirmed that the number of financial institutions registered in Bahrain continued to rise last year, reaching 415 by the end of January 2012, up from 403 [...] > read more

NBB plans GCC wide expansion

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National Bank of Bahrain is planning to open branches across GCC as part of its strategy to enhance the business base across the region, a top official at the bank’s board revealed. Chairman of the bank’s board Farouk Yousuf Khalil Almoayyed, on the sidelines of the annual ordinary general meeting of the shareholders of NBB, [...] > read more

Bahrain welcomes ethical investments: CBB Governor

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Rasheed M. Al-Maraj, Governor, Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) on Wednesday lauded Bahrain’s stringent regulatory regime and said it would continue to welcome ethical investments. Highlighting the scope of regulation, the CBB Governor explicitly said that global capital flows would continue to be critical for Bahrain. “We are a small nation; we have an open [...] > read more

Euro debt and oil prices won’t hamper growth

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While equity markets may consolidate following the powerful rally since the beginning of the year, the euro debt crisis or rising oil prices not to throttle stock markets’ brighter prospects, according to Bank Sarasin. In the March edition of its Global Snapshot Monthly, Bank Sarasin predicts that better economic conditions will fuel investors’ risk appetites, [...] > read more

BKIC and ICICI sign agreement

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Bahrain Kuwait Insurance signed an agreement with ICICI Bank (Bahrain branch), India’s largest private sector bank, for the distribution of its general insurance products targeting primarily the Indian expatriate community in Bahrain. The agreement was signed by Ebrahim Al Rayes, Chief Executive Officer of BKIC and Vikash Sharma, Country Head of ICICI Bank in the [...] > read more

Saudi economy is led by three major Cos

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The Saudi economy is currently led by three major companies namely Aramco, SABIC, and Electricity Company. These companies have an influential role in the process of development, according to Omar Al Juraifani, an economic and financial analyst, said. However, he added, the efforts by local investors willing to stimulate the small and medium-sized enterprise sector [...] > read more

National Commission terms media, education reforms a significant step

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The National Commission completed the review of all Government actions taken to implement the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) recommendations and found that actions taken to reform media and education are significant steps towards national reconciliation. The Media Reform Plan (MRP) received from the Government, whose implementation is currently in progress was found to [...] > read more

Etisalat’s ICT vision to fuel region’s economic growth

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Etisalat has set out its vision for creating an appropriate investment environment to enable information and communication technology to drive economic growth in the Arab world. “The mobile industry’s contribution to socio-economic growth can be amplified with appropriate regulations that support a multiplier effect in ICT investment,” Etisalat chairman Mohammed Omran told the ITU Connect [...] > read more

HM King Hamad holds talks with Prince Al-Hassan

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His Royal Highness Prince Al-Hassan bin Talal on Wednesday arrived on a visit to Bahrain in the company of his son His Royal Highness Prince Rashid bin Al-Hassan bin Talal. They were welcomed at the airport by National Guard Commander Major-General His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al-Khalifa, Education Minister Dr. Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi, [...] > read more

Settlement initiative doesn’t contravene with legal system

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Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Shaikh Khalid Bin Ali Al Khalifa said that the initiative of civil settlement, per which compensation will be paid directly to the affected people in a consensual manner, will not interfere with the right of those who choose to resort to civil courts. In an interview published by [...] > read more

Enerflex gets nod to open office in Bahrain

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The Economic Development Board’s (EDB) CEO Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa welcomed the US-based Enerflex Corporation’s announcement of its intention to open a branch office in Bahrain after the company was awarded a services contract with Petroleum Development Company. Enerflex (US-Inc.) is a leading company specialized in the domain of gas pressure and maintenance [...] > read more

Upper House lauds Tamkeen role

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Members of the Shura Council praised the efforts of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) to improve the working conditions of the national workforce in the domestic market. They also valued its sustainable efforts in presenting ambitious programmes and projects to create job opportunities for Bahrain job seekers and rehabilitate them. The Shura members also appreciated the [...] > read more

Shaikh Fawaz briefs The Times, The Independent Editors

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Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa paid a work visit to the UK as part of efforts to reach out to different media enterprises and benefit from their expertise. He met with the Times Editor-in-Chief James Harding, in the presence of Bahrain Ambassador to London Alice Samaan, Bahrain International Circuit chairman Zayed [...] > read more

Police urges to use alternative route during opposition rally

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The General Directorate of Traffic has appealed to drivers using Budaiya Highway to go through alternative roads and avenues during the opposition rally on Friday. An authorized rally will be held from Diraz to the entrance of Al-Muqsha’a Village, from 3pm until 6 pm. “The measure aims at ensuring the smooth flow of traffic”, Traffic [...] > read more

Prince Hassan bin Talal visits think tank

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His Royal Highness Prince Al-Hassan bin Talal visited the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies where he was welcomed by the Minister of Education Dr. Majid bin Ali Al-Nuaimi and a number of officials. Prince Al-Hassan toured the centre and was given a brief presentation on the support the center receives from His [...] > read more

Public Prosecutor issues statement in SMC case

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Following the Attorney General’s statement on 5 March 2012, the public prosecutor in charge of the case involving medical professionals only called witnesses evidence against the accused who stand charged with the most serious criminal violations. Echoing the Attorney General’s earlier statement, Al-Sayyed said that the acts of the remaining accused, such as breaching patient [...] > read more

Standard Chartered bags 11 awards

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Standard Chartered has won 11 awards in the EMEA Finance Achievement Awards 2011, the fifth straight year that the bank has been a recipient of multiple awards from EMEA Finance. SCB will be feted during EMEA Finance’s fifth annual Achievement Awards Charity Dinner on June 21, 2012 in London. In the Sovereigns and Supras DCM [...] > read more

Abu Dhabi likely to be best if Hormuz Strait closes

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Abu Dhabi will become the oil producing member of the Gulf Cooperation Council that is best insulated from a closure of the Strait of Hormuz, once the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline is fully operational later this year, according to Fitch Ratings. In January, the UAE’s energy minister said that the pipeline, designed to transport 1.5mbd, should hopefully [...] > read more

$252m cash windfall for Alba shareholders

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The shareholders of ALBA have approved the payment of the cash dividend of $252million equivalent to 67% of the nominal value of the company’s shares. The dividends will be payable from March 15, 2012 to Alba’s shareholders of record as of March 8, 2012. Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) AGM was held on Thursday at the Gulf [...] > read more

Ayadi first quarterly winner gets $100,000

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BMI Bank Bahrain awarded a total amount of $100,000 to Bahraini Alawi Saeed Sharaf in Ayadi’s first quarterly draw of the year. Alawi received the grand prize from Eyad Sater, General Manager – Support Services, BMI Bank at a ceremony conducted at the Banks’ headquarters at the Bahrain World Trade Centre. “I was overjoyed when [...] > read more

MTE Studios to host ‘Build a City’ at Riyadh Science Oasis

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Young science centre visitors can be builders for a day at the MTE Studios every time they visit the latest attraction ‘BUILD A CITY’ exhibition on construction, which will open at Riyadh Science Oasis (RSO) in Al Othaim Mall in Rabwah from March 10 through June 10, 2012. Getting into little hard hats and construction [...] > read more

Solid growth forecast for Bahrain and GCC

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The Gulf Co-operation Council’s economic health remains in a good shape despite the economic upheavals but the downside risks remain, according to reports. In latest reports released by Euromoney Conferences confirmed that despite a troubled global economy, the GCC’s financial sector continues to grow. The Gulf Financial Centres statistical survey carried out by Euromoney Conferences [...] > read more

Shahnaz wins global accolade at Forum Asia

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Shahnaz Husain, pioneer and leader of the Ayurvedic beauty movement has been honoured with “Asia’s Leading Woman in Business” Award by Women in Leadership Forum Asia. Shahnaz has taken India’s herbal heritage worldwide with a crusader’s zeal. Today, she heads the largest organization of its kind in the world, with a global network of franchise [...] > read more

KHCB announces the winner of $50,000

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Bahrain-based Islamic bank Khaleeji Commercial Bank (KHCB), announced the winner of the Al Waffer Grand Prize $50,000 and other winners in the Grand Draw held at the Bank’s main branch in Bahrain Financial Harbour. The draw was attended by members from the Bank’s management team and staff in addition to a representative from the Ministry [...] > read more

Zain Group chooses NeuString’s OptiPrizer Software

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Zain Group has agreed with Dubai-based NeuString to utilize its ‘OptiPrizer’ predictive analytics software across seven Middle East markets to improve the cost and quality of roaming services. Neustring’s OptiPrizer software helps to increase profit margins through accurate and actionable analytics of individual customer’s activity, giving the operator an unprecedented ability to control, forecast and [...] > read more

Al Baraka Algeria operating income up 6% to $110.7m

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Al Baraka Bank Algeria, a subsidiary banking unit of Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG), said that it continued to achieve excellent financial results in 2011 with net income of the Bank increased by 18%, assets by 9%, investments and financings by 4% and customer deposits by 14%. The Bank has also opened more branches in [...] > read more

Bahrain is victimof Western media bias

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Demonstrators for the most part acted within accordance of the laws, except for a few isolated incidents of vandalism and rock throwing. The official also revealed that the media advisor of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa recent revelations of progressive talks was an encouraging sign that common ground might be reached in order [...] > read more

Royal Court hails freedom of expression

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The Royal Court hailed the civilized expression of opinion which held during the rallies held respectively at Al-Fateh and in the Northern Governorate. “What happened today in both rallies stands as clear evidence and a source of pride for all Bahrainis”, it said. In a statement issued on Friday, it reaffirmed the directives of His [...] > read more

Bahrain increases Sports budget 150% to BD6.12m

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The budget allocated for sports associations for 2012 has soared by a record 150% to top BD6.12 million, up from BD2.725 million last year. The Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) unveiled the all-time high budget in a press conference held today. BOC Chief Executive Officer Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa and Secretary-general Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad [...] > read more

Jordan’s Prince Al-Hasaan raps up Bahrain visit

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His Royal Highness Prince Al-Hassan bin Talal on Friday left Bahrain in the company of his son HRH Prince Rashid bin Al-Hassan bin Talal, following a visit during which he met His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa. He was seen off at the airport by National Guard Commander Major-General HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa [...] > read more

Multi-party dialogue in Bahrain imminent: Minister

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The advisor to His Majesty King on Media Affairs, Nabeel bin Yacub Al Hamer said the national multilateral dialogue engaging all components of Bahraini society would be held soon. “All parties have expressed the desire to put an end to the brewing crisis”, the Bahrain News Agency quoting Al Hamer, said. Bahraini daily Al-Ayam quoted [...] > read more

Royal Bahrain Air Force will conduct joint air exercise

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The Royal Bahraini Air Force (RBAF) will carry out a joint air exercise from April 8 to 18 with an unprecedented participation of 22 warplanes from brotherly and friendly countries. RBAF held a final meeting to assess preparations for the “Main Connection 2012″ air drill which was attended by representatives from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, [...] > read more

Accidents in aviation reach new low in 2011: IAA

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2011 accident rate for Western-built jets was the lowest in aviation history, surpassing the previous mark set in 2010. The 2011 global accident rate, measured in hull losses per million flights of Western-built jets, was 0.37, the equivalent of one accident every 2.7 million flights. This [...] > read more

BMS to host International Leadership Conference 2012

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Bahrain Management Society is set to organise the annual International Leadership Conference (ILC 2012) under the theme “Enforcing Regional Competitiveness through Leadership, Critical Thinking and Innovation”. The President of the Board of Directors of, Dr. Adel Hamad said that the event would be held under the auspices of His Excellency Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali [...] > read more

IDB will host Business Forum in Nigeria

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Under the Patronage of Goodluck Jonathan GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, will host a two day business forum under the title ‘IsDB Group-Nigeria Business Forum’ in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Finance of Nigeria and the Nigerian National Investment Promotion [...] > read more

Attorney General pursuing only most serious Medics cases

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The Public Prosecutor in charge of the criminal cases involving a group of medics facing charges from events that took place in and around Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) last year, has stated he would only be presenting evidence for a small number of accused involved in the most serious criminal violations. As indicated by the [...] > read more

Tamkeen CEO gets briefing from NIIT officials

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A delegation from Tamkeen (Labour Fund), led by Tamkeen Chief Executive Mahmood Al-Kooheji, visited the National Institute of Industrial Training (NIIT) to discuss the milestones achieved by the programmes provided under the Tamkeen-NIIT partnership. The visit comes as part of Tamkeen’s continuous cooperation with leading training service providers aimed at empowering Bahraini individuals and enhancing [...] > read more

Bahrain to host Intl Conference on pipelines operations

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Best Practice Pipeline Bahrain will host the 1st International Conference and Exhibition on Best Practices in Pipeline Operations and Integrity Management. The three-day event will open on March 19 at the Gulf International Centre for Conferences, under the patronage of Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza. The event, which will take place at [...] > read more

Arab League official denies claims about Bahrain

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Advisor to the Secretary-General of the Arab League for Arab Affairs Ambassador Talal Al Amine denied categorically that he had promised the delegation of the Egyptian Revolutionary Groups, during his meeting with them last Sunday, to include the events of Bahrain in the agenda of 23rd Arab Summit, due to be hosted by Baghdad later [...] > read more

Arab League lauds HM King’s proposal to setup Arab HR body

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The Ministerial Council of the Arab League has welcomed the initiative of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to establish an Arab Human Rights Tribunal, whose by-law will be discussed by an Arab Committee of expert during a meeting to be hosted by Manama. This came as the 137th Session of the Arab [...] > read more

Bahrain MPs meets with their Belgian counterparts

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Second Deputy Chairwoman of the Shura Council and head of the parliamentary delegation taking part in the Crans Montana Forum, currently Head here, Dr. Bahiya Jawad Al Jishi highlighted the importance of enhancing parliamentary coordination between at international gatherings and conferences so as to serve Arab and global issues and develop cooperation between parliaments and [...] > read more

Youssef Al Kareh to head Solidarity General Takaful

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Youssef Al Kareh has been appointed General Manager of Solidarity General Takaful “SGT”, a subsidiary of Solidarity Group Holding, one of the largest Takaful companies in the world. Al Kareh was formerly Acting General Manager at SGT, and has been with Solidarity Group since his appointment as Head of Risk Management at the beginning of [...] > read more

BNH participates in the 12th UoB Careers Day

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Bahrain National Holding Company has participated in the Annual Careers Day held at the University of Bahrain at Sakhir campus. The “Career Day” is an ongoing initiative of The University of Bahrain that is designed to help students raise their awareness about the job market and better understand their future career options. BNH’s participation comes [...] > read more

Youth unemployment reaches 60% in Tunisia, Egypt

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The unemployment rates reached at alarming 25% in the Middle East and North Africa with pockets youth unemployment reaching 60% in countries like Egypt and Tunisia, an expert warned. Badr Jafar, the Co-Initiator of the Pearl Initiative, the GCC-based, private-sector led organization promoting good governance, transparency and corporate responsibility, and President of Crescent Petroleum, delivered [...] > read more

Parliament Speaker calls for green projects

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Representatives Council Chairman Khalifa Al Dhahrani assured parliament support to green industries and environmental projects. He was speaking as he received Director General of the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella. He underscored the parliament’s keen interest to pass legislations aimed at promoting projects to preserve the environment, which comply with international [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Sovereign Fund scores high in transparency

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Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), the investment arm of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has maintained its high ranking for transparency in the independent Linaburg-Maduell Transparency Index issued by the Sovereign Wealth Funds Institute (SWFI). Placed in the top tier of its global peers, the ranking reinforces the institution’s commitment to the highest standards of corporate [...] > read more

Human Rights Minister holds talks with ILO official

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Minister of Human Rights and Social Development Dr. Fatima Al-Balooshi received the International Labour Organization’s (ILO’s) International Labour Standards Directress Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry. Dr. Al-Balooshi discussed the role of the MoHRSD within the government sector, and made a brief presentation on major projects and initiatives the Ministry has adopted in the area of human rights and [...] > read more

Shaikh Nasser issues directive for Mayadeen Magazine

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President of the Supreme Council of Youth and Sports cum Chairman of the Bahraini Olympics Committee His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa instructed the preparation of a marketing plan for Mayadeen Magazine. The first edition of the magazine was published in cooperation between HH Shaikh Nasser’s Press Office and the Information Center, which [...] > read more

Bahrain Customs foils attempt to smuggle SR1m

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Bahrain International Airport customs officers have been able to foil smuggling more than one million Saudi Riyals out of the Kingdom. Initial details revealed that a customs officer stopped an Indian traveller at the inspection hall while trying to leave Bahrain. After searching him around, he was found hiding SR 1,064,900 in his suitcase. The [...] > read more

Bahrain to generate energy from household waste

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The Bahrain Cabinet on Sunday endorsed licensing a foreign company specialized in generating electricity from recycled household wastes, with special emphasis on the need to adhere to the nature-friendly requirements. According to the Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussein bin Ali Mirza, a maximum of 32 megawatt will be produced within the project, which will help [...] > read more

Bahrain Sharks vie for regional titles with DHL support

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DHL has sponsored the Bahrain Sharks Hockey Team enabling their participation in two key regional tournaments. The team, which will be led by Bahraini Captain Tamer Fakhro will head to Doha on the 8th – 10th of March to participate in the 7th annual CNA-Q Desert Cup and then to Dubai to participate in the [...] > read more

Sabre unveils next-generation web-based booking system

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Bahrain-headquartered Sabre Travel Network Middle East (Sabre), a global technology company serving travel suppliers and agencies, has announced the launch of an online booking engine for travel agencies to establish and grow their online business. The new web booking engine which provides travellers easy way to shop and book travel online by browsing the users’ [...] > read more

Arab League Secretary General lauds HM King’s reforms

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Secretary-General of the Arab League Dr. Nabil Al Arabi held talks with the Bahraini Ambassador to Egypt and its Permanent Representative to the Arab League Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa. Dr. Al Arabi lauded the reform march launched by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, praising the crucial role played by the [...] > read more

Shura member holds talks with Heritage Foundation official

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Shura Council Financial and Economic chairperson Dr. Aisha Salim Mubarak met Ambassador Terry Millar, director of the Centre for International Trade and Economics and the Mark A. Kolokotrones Fellow in Economic Freedom at the Heritage Foundation. She highlighted Bahrain’s drive to develop economic legislations, attract foreign investments and promote growth. She also reaffirmed Bahrain’s resolve [...] > read more

Dr Al Balushi reviews status of ‘One Unity’ campaign

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Human Rights and Social Development Minister Dr. Fatima Mohammed Al Blushi chaired a meeting with the undersecretaries of the ministries in charge of the “One Unity” campaign to boost national reconciliation. She stressed that national initiatives to achieve reconciliation among all social segments are not exclusive to particular individuals or parties but every person is [...] > read more

Bahrain’s sky to witness beautiful astronomical phenomenon

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Bahrain’s sky will witness the most beautiful astronomical phenomenon this Wednesday in the distinctive planetary conjunction of Venus and Jupiter reaching its closest point, despite being vastly far from one another in space, the two planets will appear a few degrees apart. The distance between them in their alignment with Earth would be something around [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Prime Minister holds talks with his Thai counterpart

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His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa met with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. During the meeting stages of the progressive Bahraini-Thai relationships and comprehensive, advanced bilateral cooperation were discussed. The meeting also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concern. HRH the Premier emphasized the Kingdom of Bahrain’s keenness [...] > read more

Bahrain assures support to Somalia

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The Royal Charity Organization’s Board of Trustees President His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa emphasized the Kingdom of Bahrain’s support to the brotherly people of the Republic of Somalia in compliance with the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa Monarch of the Kingdom of Bahrain who is the Honorary [...] > read more

Bahrain is capable to become regional hub for green technology

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UNIDO’s General Director Dr. Kamdehkolleh Yumkella affirmed that Kingdom of Bahrain was positioned to become a regional headquarters for green technologies that would serve Middle East countries and North Africa towards supporting sustainable growth and development. Dr Yumkella said the preference for Bahrain to host the headquarters was due to its historical constituents, hospitality and [...] > read more

Prince Salman hosts weekly majlis

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander hosted his weekly majlis at Riffa Palace. Members of the Ruling Family, senior officials, ministers, dignitaries, Shura Council members, MPs, municipal councilors, clerics, economic and social figures, academics, national and Arab intellectual and media figures, diplomats and prominent ladies attended. They [...] > read more

HM King praises UN efforts for creating sustainable projects

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa Monarch of the Kingdom of Bahrain received in Al-Safriya Palace the United Nations Industrial Development Organization’s (UNIDO) General Director Dr. Kamdehkolleh Yumkella in the presence of HM the King’s Personal Representative and the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, the Environment and Wildlife’s President His [...] > read more

BCCI launches campaign to stir activity at Manama Souq

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Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) on Tuesday spearheaded a major campaign to create a buzz at the traditional Manama Souq during the upcoming F1 Grand Prix 2012 in April in Bahrain. The Chairman of the BCCI board Dr Esam Abdulla Fakhro and board members of the Chamber along with the Chairman of the [...] > read more

Authorities detain Arab women at airport

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The Director General of Ports stated that the efforts of the Police Directorate of Bahrain International Airport resulted in arresting an Arab woman after stealing 8 thousand Saudi Riyals from one of the exchange companies at the airport. He explained that a communication received at the Airport’s Police Directorate that an exchange company at the [...] > read more

IAA slams disgruntled elements for smearing propaganda

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The Kingdom of Bahrain pledged to continue its adopted open media policy. “The media doors remain open to embrace diverse opinions, political and intellectual orientations”, the Information Affairs Authority said, stressing diversity, impartiality, objectivity, respect of responsible freedom of opinion, in line with the legislative strides and atmosphere of political openness under the reform project [...] > read more

Over 101 exhibitors take part in Green Technology Forum

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The number of pavilions at the Bahrain International Green Technologies Forum has exceeded 101, the organizing committee today announced. The pavilions belong to ministries and government departments, in addition to companies from China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The BIGTF organizing committee said that the number of pavilion [...] > read more

IAA Bahrain member wins EMBA scholarship

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Mahmood Rafique, Member of International Advertising Association (IAA) Bahrain Chapter, has been selected to receive the Executive MBA in Creative Leadership at the Berlin School of Creative Leadership at Steinbeis University Berlin. Starting on March 18th, Mahmood will participate in the part-time business management degree programme entitled “Executive Master of Business Administration in Creative Leadership” [...] > read more

IATA seeks strong partnerships across the Air Cargo Chain

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) advocated strong partnerships across the air cargo value chain to address an industry agenda to enhance safety, security, sustainability and competitiveness. “Air cargo is critical to the global economy. By value, over 35% of goods traded internationally are handled by air. But this accounts for just 0.5% of global [...] > read more

Zain KSA appoints Fraser Curley as new CEO

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The Board of Directors of Mobile Telecommunications Company Saudi Arabia (Zain KSA) approved the appointment of Fraser Curley as Chief Executive Officer, taking over from Khalid Al-Omar who retires following a career of over 26 years within Zain Group and the successful completion of his objectives in Saudi Arabia. Khalid Al-Omar became Managing Director and [...] > read more

UAE tourism to generate $19.9b in 2012

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The direct contribution of travel and tourism to the UAE GDP is expected to hit $19.9 billion this year , or 6.1%, compared with $16.6 billion, or 6.6%, in 2009, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Flush with petrodollars, with oil prices consistently above $120 a barrel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia [...] > read more

Abraaj Capital, PIF closes $50m Fund

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Abraaj Capital, Palestine Investment Fund (PIF), Bank of Palestine (BoP), Cisco and the European Investment Bank (EIB) jointly announced the first close of the Palestine Growth Capital Fund, which will provide private equity growth capital investments and management support to high growth small and mid-cap companies (SMCs) in Palestine. The announcement was made today during [...] > read more

GFH clarifies KSE statement on bank’s financials

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The statement issued by GFH on Tuesday and attributable to Dr. Haider Majali Chief Strategy Officer/Corporate Secretary of the bank aimed at clarifying the misleading and misunderstood statement made by the Kuwait Stock Exchange on its website on Monday which according to the banks caused a quite stir about bank’s financials. “With reference to the [...] > read more

Gulf Air Grand Prix brings $500m economic benefits

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Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, the CEO of the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), reiterated that the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix would bring numerous economic benefits by creating a number of jobs which will brighten the economic outlook for [...] > read more

Gulf Credit Partners completes 1st transaction

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Gulf Credit Partners, the regional credit business which was launched by Gulf Capital, has successfully completed its first financing transaction for a locally based company SES FZCO (SES). SES is a leading provider of temporary and medium term energy solutions [...] > read more

Al Baraka Bank Egypt net income slips by 7% in 2011

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Al Baraka Bank Egypt, a subsidiary banking unit of Al Baraka Banking Group BSC (ABG), said that it had achieved a 54% increase in net operating income in year 2011. “Total assets also increased by nine percent, financing and investments [...] > read more

Dr Hassan Fakhro visits Bahrain Investors’ Centre

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Within the framework of his keenness to follow up progress in various sectors of the Ministry, and to stand on the developments of mobility and achievement especially front offices and services directly related with reviewers, Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. [...] > read more

Dr. Fakhro holds talks with BCCI Chairman

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro held talks with the Chairman of Bahrain Chamber of Industry and Commerce Dr. Essam Fakhro. During the meeting, they reviewed a number of issues and common topic of interest between BCCI and the [...] > read more

Bahrain gets state-of-the-art science centre

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Bahrain’s Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development has appointed MTE Studios to run operations of the Bahrain Science Centre which is slated to open soon to public. Experts in Science Centre and Museums operations and management, the company has [...] > read more

KFH-B sponsors the Men’s ITF Futures Tennis Tournament

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain (KFH-B), announced its sponsorship of the first-ever ITF Future Tennis Tournament, being held in the Kingdom of Bahrain between March 26 to April 7, at the Bahrain Tennis Club (BTC) courts in Juffair. The two week tournament [...] > read more

Unisono holds ‘Madmen’ Night

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Unisono held a Madmen inspired night at its headquarters in Sanabis where industry peers and clients where able to network and enjoy some 50’s style hospitality and entertaining clips from the early days of advertising. “Events are a great way [...] > read more

Hedge funds make gains in February rally

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Hedge funds made money in February’s broad market rally and in the absence of significant macro events, according to Man’s monthly Hedge Fund Overview research which analyses the industry using several data sources. The HFRI Fund of Funds Composite was [...] > read more

Dr Mirza chairs Tatweer AGM

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Dr. Abdul-Hussain bin Ali Mirza chaired the shareholders general assembly for Tatweer Petroleum Company which was held in the company’s main office. The meeting was attended by representatives of the shareholders; nogaholding, Mubadala and Occidental Petroleum companies. The meeting’s agenda [...] > read more

BMB pays $2.3m dividends for Q1

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Bahrain Middle East Bank today (B.S.C) announced the distribution of $ 2.3million to its private equity Investors for the quarter ending 31 March 2012 – thereby taking aggregate distributed since the New Management take-over to $17.7 million. “We are pleased [...] > read more

Sakana launches business referral scheme

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Bahrain-based Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions, the Islamic mortgage finance provider recently hosted a networking dinner for Bahrain real estate service providers at Crowne Plaza Hotel. During the event, Sakana announced launch of “Business Partner Referral Rewards Program” for real estate [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro receives Merrill Lynch team

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro received Resident Director of Merrill Lynch Bank Johnathan Cross accompanied with Vice President Nitesh Agarwal. During the Meeting, they discussed a number of issues related to economic matters and related to investment and [...] > read more

Royal Thai Navy assumes command of CTF 151

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Rear Admiral Tanin Likitawong, Royal Thai Navy, relieved Commodore Aage Buur Jensen, Royal Danish Navy, as Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, during a change of command ceremony onboard USS Halsey (DDG 97), Muscat, Omanon Thursday. The ceremony concluded the [...] > read more

Global Aerospace Summit 2012 opens on 16th April

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Global Aerospace Summit 2012 (The Summit) announced the agenda for the Summit taking place at St. Regis Hotel, Abu Dhabi on 16-17 April 2012 has now been finalized. Tony Tyler, IATA Director General, will deliver a State of the Industry [...] > read more

IFSB adopts Liquidity Risk Management, Stress Testing principles

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The Council of the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) has approved the adoption of two new Guiding Principles in its 20th Meeting held in Bahrain Manama on Thursday. The two documents are IFSB-12: Guiding Principles on Liquidity Risk Management for [...] > read more

Standard Chartered hosts EMTA Forum

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Standard Chartered Bank hosted the Emerging Markets Traders Association’s (EMTA) forum in Dubai. The event was attended by more than 100 Bank clients comprising top executives and traders from the region. The Dubai forum is part of the Trader’s association [...] > read more

IFSB admits five new members

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The Council of the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) has resolved on Thursday to admit two new regulatory and supervisory authorities into the IFSB membership – one as a full member and the other as an associate member. Three new [...] > read more

Bahrain’s tourism and retail sectors show growth

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Despite a challenging year Seef Properties showed an increase in its leasing business, showing the resilience of the business model put in place by the board of the company, a top official at the company said. “Bahain’s tourism, retail and [...] > read more

GFH on the right path of profitability, growth

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Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House (GFH) on Thursday reiterated that it had achieved a turnaround by returning t profitability and 2011 and the bank would continue on the path of sustainability and growth, a senior official at the board said. Addressing [...] > read more

Air Arabia triples Dammam frequency

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Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low cost carrier (LCC) announced the launch of additional daily flight to Dammam in Saudi Arabia. With the launch of the additional service, Air Arabia now operates three daily [...] > read more

AIWF & ABCC co-host London Forum

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The Arab International Women’s Forum (AIWF), a non-profit organisation founded in London in 2001 that serves as a voice for Arab women leaders, co-hosted two events with the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) at the Chamber’s Headquarters in Central London [...] > read more

Azzam clinches double victory at BIC

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Ramez Azzam of Canada and Clemens Schmid from Austria overcame gloomy weather conditions on Friday (March 30) to shine brightly in Sakhir as Speed Weekend flagged off in exciting fashion at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). Azzam captured a double pole [...] > read more

Dr Hassan Fakhro visits Gulf Hotel

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In line with his keen interest to follow up closely on the latest economic development in the kingdom, industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro has paid a visit to the Gulf Hotel. Upon arrival, the Minister and his [...] > read more

National Hotels Company pays BD1m as dividend

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The National Hotels’ Company has resolved to distribute 10% of its capital in cash dividends i.e. BD 1 million to its shareholders. The company decided to allocate BD 245,000 i.e. 10% of the year’s profits into the legal reserve account, [...] > read more

Bahrain’s hospitality sector braces for F1 Grand Prix

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The hospitality industry in Bahrain seems upbeat on the return of the Gulf Air Formula One Grand Prix to Bahrain, according to a report published by the Bahrain News Agency (BNA) on Friday. The report maintains a positive sentiment prevails [...] > read more

Saudi Monarch holds talks with Hillary Clinton

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The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received at his palace the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her accompanying delegation, currently on a visit to Saudi Arabia. According to the Saudi Press [...] > read more

Shaikh Nasser to attend GCC Olympics meet in Saudi

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Supreme Council for Youth and Sport Chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee President Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to lead Bahrain’s delegation to the meeting of the GCC Olympic committees’ chiefs. He was welcomed on arrival [...] > read more

Bahrain expects 7.2% salary rise in 2012

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In the backdrop of an average salary rise in GCC of 6.7%, Bahrain expects 7.2% pay increase in 2012, according to the GCC Aon Hewitt survey. Data from the latest Salary Increase Survey (SIS) from Aon Hewitt, the global human [...] > read more

NCC responds to 150,000th call

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The National Contact Centre (NCC) for the Kingdom of Bahrain celebrated a major milestone by responding to its 150,000th caller. Silah Gulf (Silah), a multi-award winning business process outsourcing (BPO) and customer experience provider, operates the 8000 8001 hotline. In [...] > read more

TIC brings John Hopkins Medicine services in Bahrain

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Bahrain-based one of the oldest takaful companies in the region, Takaful International, hosted a medical seminar in cooperation with Anadolu Medical Center. The visiting Anadolu Medical Center held meetings with the professionals, government officials and prospective clients who can benefit [...] > read more

Action Libya opens its doors for business

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Action Bahrain, an independent, full-service public relations consultancy, has announced the opening of an office in Tripoli, Libya in response to growing demand from existing and prospective clients. The Action network now covers the whole North Africa region and Action [...] > read more

Abdulla Yousif Fakhro & Sons sign up with CBRE

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Abdulla Yousif Fakhro & Sons and CBRE signed an agreement appointing CBRE to manage and lease the Fakhro Tower, a prestigious new commercial office complex in Dana, Manama. Nearing completion, the tower extends 30 storeys and provides 19,000 square meters [...] > read more

IGI Holdings reports $23.2m net profits

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International General Insurance Holdings Limited (IGIH) reported net earnings of $23.2 million for 2011, an increase of 35.05% compared to $17.2 million for the 2010 fiscal year. “Marking our 10th anniversary, I am very pleased to announce our record earnings. [...] > read more

Tamkeen-AIESEC start third intake for training

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Tamkeen and AIESEC in Bahrain are currently accepting applications for the Global Internship Programme, now in its third cycle. The Tamkeen-AISEC partnership is in line with Tamkeen’s ongoing efforts to support human capital development in line with labour market requirements. [...] > read more

StandChart eyes 20m NRIs investors

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Standard Chartered has launched the NRI 3-in-1 Account, a complete investment solution for non-resident Indians (NRI) to access Indian investment markets. Indian investors collectively account for the third highest investor base in the world with over 20 million investors. Standard [...] > read more

Kuwait reveals $274b realty projects for 2012

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Kuwait is positioning itself as one of the Middle East and North African (MENA) region’s emerging construction markets with over 267 projects worth $274 billion underway for 2012, according to a report from CPH World Media, a leading business research [...] > read more

Saudi Arabia emerges pivotal for foreign investors

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With speculation growing that Saudi Arabia might loosen restrictions on foreign investment in its stock market, the oil-rich country could present global investors with a play on rising middle-class spending that is surprisingly similar to developing Asia, according to an [...] > read more

The eGov Authority to host workshop on Cyber Law and PPP

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The eGovernment Authority in collaboration with United Nations ESCWA will organize the first specialized workshop on the sidelines of Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2012 on Monday 9th April at Ritz Carlton Hotel, Al Noor Ballroom The Cyber Law and Public [...] > read more

IFRS 9 changes financial reporting landscape: Deloitte

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The latest changes to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), adapted and used in over 100 nations across the world including most countries in the Middle East, will change the financial reporting landscape in an extensive way, according to Deloitte. The [...] > read more

Bahrain’s evolving job market brings enormous challenges: Expert

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The changing face of the global labour market heightens the need for educators to guide students in their course selections and encourage them to weigh up how today’s choices could impact tomorrow’s job prospects, according to the Director of the [...] > read more

F1 Grand Prix brings $200m as direct impact to businesses

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Bahrain’s business community should maximise their share of the spotlight when the 2012 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix takes place on April 20-21-22. This was the message of Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa [...] > read more

Weight loss, low hemoglobin for hunger striker: Official

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Authorities have released information regarding the care of Abdulhadi Al Khawaja who is currently incarcerated at Jau Prison for his alleged role in an attempt to overthrow the Government early last year. Al Khawaja’s family has said that he is [...] > read more

HM King Hamad to pay historic visit to Japan

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa is expected to pay an historic visit to Japan. Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa received a Japanese media delegation representing NHK TV Channel and Shimbun newspaper, ahead of HM [...] > read more

Interior Minister visits Special Forces HQ

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His Excellency Minister of Interior Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa visited on Tuesday the Special Security Forces Command in Safrah. He conveyed to officers and other ranks the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa [...] > read more

Ministry of Interior slams Al Wefaq speech

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The Assistant Undersecretary of Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Interior has condemned what was mentioned in the speech of the General Secretary of Al-Wefaq National Islamic Society on Saturday March 31, and highlighted that hailing the recent incidents disunites [...] > read more

Bahrain is a key ally of US: Congressman

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US Congressman described Bahrain as key strategic ally in the region. “Bahrain has always been a friend of the US over the past years”, US Representative Jim Hims, quoted saying by the Bahrain News Agency (BNA). He stressed the growing [...] > read more

HRH Premier ensures better living standards

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His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has instructed the concerned sides to continue implementing government’s development projects, especially those aiming to upgrade the standards of living of the citizens and the quality of the [...] > read more

Princess Sabeeka opens geriatric wards

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Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty King Hamad and President of the Supreme Council for Women patronized the opening of two geriatric wards at Muharraq-based Maternity Hospital and the Elderly House. The new facilities [...] > read more

Bahrain attends UN meet on human trafficking

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The UN General Assembly President held on the l an interactive forum on human trafficking, at the initiative of delegations of Bahrain, UAE, Belarus, Portugal, and Philippines. The forum was held in the headquarters of the UN in New York [...] > read more

HM King receives Japanese envoy, businessmen

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received at Al-Safriya Palace Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain Shigeki Sumi who introduced to him a number of Japanese businessmen residing in the Kingdom as well as Bahrain-Japan Business and Friendship Society President [...] > read more

HM King Hamad briefs Japanese media

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, received at Saferiya palace, a Japanese media delegation. The delegation included representatives from Radio and TV, Japanese TV NHK, Japanese News Agency, Asahi Shimbun newspaper, and the Nikkei newspaper. The delegation conducted [...] > read more

BNP Paribas Chief holds talks with Finance Minister

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Finance Minister Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa met BNP Paribas Chairman Baudouin Prot and discussed key financial, banking and business issues. The minister hailed the outstanding status of PNB Paribas – being one of the pioneering banks in the world. [...] > read more

BNP Paribas Chairman concludes Middle East visit

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BNP Paribas’ Chairman, Baudouin Prot has completed a visit to the Middle East Region, where he took the opportunity to meet with key clients, government officials, decision makers, management and staff. During his three-day tour of the Middle East Region, [...] > read more

Bahrain’s hospitality sector shows robust growth

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The hospitality sector in Bahrain has bounced back much strongly than expected in the post 2011 slowdown which further reaffirmed country’s position as an emerging tourism hub in the region, a top hotelier revealed. Avsar Koc, Regional Director of Sales [...] > read more

Gulf Air inducts 5th Tamkeen trained female crew

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Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain and Tamkeen, welcomed the fifth group of seven all-Bahraini female cabin crew to the Gulf Air family. In a graduation ceremony held at Elite Resort and Spa, attended by family [...] > read more

Bapco organizes musical event in Awali

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Bapco organized a musical event at Awali in collaboration of the Life Of Music Institute. The event was held on the sidelines of the closing ceremony of Bapco’s First Annual Arts Competition, which was held under the patronage of HE [...] > read more

Tamkeen receives “Ladies First International”

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Tamkeen received a delegation from “Ladies First International”, a worldwide women network headquartered in France, as part of the delegation’s current visit to the Kingdom from April 2 – 6. The delegation was introduced to the wide range of Tamkeen’s [...] > read more

Gulf Air signs agreement with GOSI

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Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has recently signed a partnership agreement with Social Insurance Organization (GOSI) in Bahrain that allows discounts to senior citizens, i.e., pensioners, and their immediate family members when travelling on Gulf [...] > read more

SPE-Bahrain organises presentation on Fiber-Optic

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The SPE-Bahrain organised a presentation entitled “E&P Applications of Fiber-Optic Technologies” as part of the Distinguished Lecturer Programme, arranged by SPE International. The presentation was delivered by Dennis Dria, petroleum technology advisor for Myden Energy Consulting. The presentation was held at [...] > read more

Bahrain tops in global IT ranking

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The Kingdom of Bahrain has been ranked top in the region in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Information Technology Report, produced in cooperation with INSEAD. The Kingdom has also improved its position within the top 30 global economies, climbing [...] > read more

Finance Minister rules out closing down of Gulf Air

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Minister of Finance Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa emphasized that he had not given any statement to the effect that there was any government intention to shut down Gulf Air. The Minister said that the statement attributed to him [...] > read more

GCC banks’ revenues up 7% in 2011

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The banking industry in the Middle East experienced a healthy revenue growth of seven percent in 2011, after revenues had stagnated the year before. Subsequently, profits also increased significantly in 2011 and reached the highest level since the all-time high [...] > read more

HRT brings Spanish hopes to Bahrain

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HRT Formula 1 Team arrives for the 2012 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix aiming to take another step towards competitiveness for this uniquely Spanish racing outfit. As the second of the three all-new teams that made their Formula [...] > read more

eGov Forum 2012 kicks off on Sunday

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His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Information and Communication Technology (SCICT), opens the fifth Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2012 on Sunday at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Bahrain. During the inaugural [...] > read more

Joint Air Force exercise begins on Sunday

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The Basic Liaison Drill 2012, organised by Bahrain Defence Force, will commence on Sunday with an unprecedented participation of 100 jet-fighters from ten sisterly and friendly countries. The military exercise is part of the Royal Bahraini Air Force (RBAF) training [...] > read more

Alba supports charity

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Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) donated BD 5,000 to the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioural and Communication Difficulties. The Chairman of Alba’s Board of Directors, Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji presented the cheque on Alba’s behalf to the Board Member of the [...] > read more

NBB honours long-serving employees

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NBB honoured 14 of its staff members with special awards in recognition for their long and continuous service. These members have been with the Bank for at least 10 years, while some have been serving the Bank for over 35 [...] > read more

STC Group CEO Saud Al-Daweesh steps down

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Following a long standing career with STC, Group CEO Saud Al-Daweesh hands in his notice to retire leaving a track record of achievements and contribution to the largest telecommunications group in the region. In a statement issued on Tadawul, STC [...] > read more

RUW hosts Intl Women Day

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Under the patronage of Prof. Mazin Juma President of Royal university for women and Dr. Jameela Mukhaimer Dean of students affairs, Royal University for women (office of Students affairs) organized the International women’s a day celebration and seminar. The programme [...] > read more

Govt remains committed to hospitality sector

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro confirmed government’s keen to hotel sector, which is one of the most important foundation of tourism and the main artery of tourism industry in the Kingdom. This came during his visit with a [...] > read more

Home Owner Association serves as vital tool

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The Bahraini Government has introduced a legislation empowering all Freehold Owners to get together and form their Home Owner Association (HOA) so they can take control of the Common Areas of their buildings. All commercial contracts, power bills, insurances, public [...] > read more

Vice Chairman Pakistan Club bids farewell to embassy staff

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Vice Chairman Pakistan Club Mohamed Afzal Bhatti hosted a farewell party for the outgoing Labour Attache at Pakistan embassy Rana Rafiq, who is leaving Bahrain after three and half years serving at the embassy. The dinner was attended by about [...] > read more

Tamkeen partners with Global Intrapreneurship Forum

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The Firm (TF), an international private members club and marketplace for business development and intrapreneurship, announced Tamkeen, as the “Intrapreneurship Partner” for the Global Intrapreneurship Forum 2012 to be held in Bahrain on May 27-282012 at the Gulf Hotel. The [...] > read more

Tamkeen gives insight about its programmes

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As part of its ongoing efforts to support and develop Bahrainis and directly engage with its target audiences, Tamkeen recently held an open meeting with more than 50 people in MP Abdulhakim Al Shemmari’s weekly majlis in Adliya to shed [...] > read more

Bapco’s new board convenes a meeting

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Dr. Abdul-Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy, Chairman of The National Oil and Gas Authority, the first meeting of the new Board of Directors of Bapco was held 2012 at Al Dar, Awali. The meeting was chaired by Adel [...] > read more

Prince Salman slams provocative rhetoric

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HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander emphasized the need to disallow anyone whomsoever from exploiting religion for the purpose of abusing anyone else whether through political rhetoric or resorting to violence or provocations [...] > read more

Religious leaders should play constructive role

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The Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments asserted the significant role and responsibilities of religious speeches in preaching the message Islam and consolidate fraternal bonds and national unity. The Ministry regretted the incitement of violence and fostering of hatred [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Cabinet slams acts of sabotage, rioting

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The cabinet on Sunday condemened in the strongest terms the acts of sabotage, rioting and targeting of public and private property and security personnel, stressing that those illegal practices are widely denounced by both official and public sides. The Cabinet [...] > read more

BCCI launches probe into allegations against CE

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The annual general assembly of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Sunday formed a committee to probe into the allegations levelled by some members against the Chief Executive of the BCCI Ebrahim Allangawi. The members who push the [...] > read more

BCCI reinstates two sacked board members

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The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) members during a general assembly meeting on Sunday unanimously reinstated two sacked directors namely Adel Hassan Alaali, Second Vice Chairman and Ebrahim Abdali Isa Aldaaysi. The decision on Sunday means that two [...] > read more

Bahrain embarks on a new eGov strategy 2016

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The Kingdom of Bahrain on Sunday announced the launch of the eGovernment strategy 2016, a step seen as a vital in keeping Bahrain abreast with dynamic changes taking place in the global ICT sector. His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak [...] > read more

Bahrain jumps to 7th slot in eGov services from 62nd

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Mohammad Ali Al Qaed, the Chief Executive of the eGovernment Authority, who highlighted the achievements and accomplishments of the Kingdom since the establishment of Bahrain’s eGovernment programme such as availing 230 eServices and four channels that did not exist before. [...] > read more

Search for terror blast in Bahrain hurts seven policemen

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The Chief of Public Security Major-General Tariq Al Hassan confirmed a terror explosion in Al Ekar village at 7:17 PM on Monday that targeted the safety of policemen who were on duty at the entrance of the village that witnesses [...] > read more

BDF C-in-C holds talks with Pakistani Defence delegation

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The BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa met with a Pakistani delegation comprising a number of officers from the Pakistan Defense College who are currently visiting the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Commander-in-Chief welcomed the Pakistani delegation [...] > read more

Detainees get medical facilities of Intl standards

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Interior Ministry Inspector General Brigadier Ibrahim Habib Al-Ghaith affirmed on Monday that Abdulhadi Al Khawaja is in good health but that he had been transferred from the Public Security Clinic to the Bahrain Defence Force Hospital because the latter is [...] > read more

HRH Prince Salman holds talks with HRH Premier Prince Khalifa

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Deputy of HM the King Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa received at his weekly Majlis at Riffa Palace senior members of the ruling family, dignitaries, ministers, members of the Shura and Representatives Councils, municipal [...] > read more

eGov strategy 2016 heralds a new era for ICT

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Chief Executive of the eGovernment Authority said that the new strategy for the years 2012-2016 aims to achieve excellence in the future generation of government services, encourage innovation and effective participation with the community and boost entrepreneurship. He said in [...] > read more

International delegates praise Bahrain’s ICT excellence

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International delegates currently taking part in the Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2012, being held from April 9 to 11th, praised Bahrain’s eGovernment efforts in developing its services provided to the country’s citizens and residence; as well as its keenness in [...] > read more

Bahrain IT Expo generates great interest

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The activities of Bahrain IT Expo 2012 being held the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Al Ghazal Ballroom with participation of over 50 exhibitors from public and private sectors, and will continue for till Wednesday 11th of April 2012. The IT Expo 2012 [...] > read more

Delegates attend ‘Cyber Law, Social Media workshops

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The first batch of the Bahrain International eGovernment Forum workshops were commenced on Monday, starting with the eGovernment Authority’s workshop ‘Cyber Law and Public Private Partnership’ as well as the ‘Social Media Hands-On’ workshop organized by Bahrain’s Social Media Club. [...] > read more

Bone scanning sessions at Lulu Riffa

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Anlene is urging women across Bahrain to take control of their bone health and attend one of its free bones scanning sessions taking place daily until Sunday 15 April in Lulu Hypermarket-Riffa, Bahrain. The free service is being offered from [...] > read more

Bahrain to host 4th annual Food and Hospitality Expo

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Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain with mass support from His Excellency Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, the Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Authority [...] > read more

Bahrain eyes next generation excellence in ICT

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Building on the solid foundations of the previous period (2007-2010), the new eGovernment strategy aspires to achieve next generation government excellence by delivering high-quality services effectively, besides encouraging innovation, advocating proactive public engagement, nurturing entrepreneurship and collaborating with all stakeholders, [...] > read more

Foreign investments don’t fly out of UAE

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Despite a recession the investments remained in the country, showing the confidence of investors in the UAE economy, an expert said. The start of 2012 has seen an emergence of a relatively positive economic outlook for the future of Dubai [...] > read more

Air Arabia shareholders approves 6% dividend

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The shareholders of Air Arabia during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday approved the distribution of a six per cent cash dividend was approved. During the AGM, the assembly approved the report of the company’s auditors for the financial [...] > read more

Sahara Force Team arrives for F1 Bahrain

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In 1991, the entrepreneurial ex-racer turned junior race team boss Eddie Jordan pulled together a dedicated little team and built a fabulous Formula One car with a mix of charisma and blarney. He inadvertently launched the career of Michael Schumacher, [...] > read more

LaSalle advises on a major realty deal at DIFC

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Jones Lang LaSalle, the world’s leading real estate investment and advisory firm today announced that it has advised the seller on the successful disposition of a large prime commercial asset located within Dubai International Financial Centre in Dubai, UAE. Building [...] > read more

GFH signs MoU with a consortium of banks

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Royal Ranches Marrakech (RRM), and Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House (GFH), signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the consortium of banks led by Banque Marocaine de Commerce Exteriur (BMCE) to receive the second tranche of an existing facility to resume [...] > read more

Zain Bahrain supports ICT awareness at eGov Forum

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Zain Bahrain, one of the platinum sponsors of the Bahrain International e-Government Forum 2012 participated as exhibitor at the event which was held at The Ritz Carlton. The forum was conducted under the patronage of Shaikh Mohamed bin Mubarak Al [...] > read more

Takaful Industry to reach $25b by 2015

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In the backdrop of the projected growth of takaful industry of reaching $25b by 2015, the Takaful industry has witnessed significant internationalization in the last decade with the industry rapidly expanding its footprint beyond the traditional high-growth markets of the GCC [...] > read more

Bahrain is safe to host F1 Grand Prix: British Cop

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John Yates, former assistant commissioner in the London Metropolitan Police Service, and current adviser to Bahrain’s police on Tuesday said that 95% Bahrain is safe and the Government already assured maintaining secure environment during F1 Grand Prix 2012 kicks off [...] > read more

AWRIS distributes $123m as dividend since inception

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The Bahrain Based Arab War Risks Insurance Syndicate (AWRIS) on Tuesday said that it had distributed $123million as a dividend to its shareholders since the inception of the company. He was speaking after the launch of AWARIS new offices opened [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King attends official banquet in Tokyo

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa attended here a dinner banquet hosted by the Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda in his honour. HM the King exchanged cordial talks with the Japanese Prime Minister and senior officials on the [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King holds talks with Japanese Premier

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda held official talks, in the presence of the two countries’ delegations. On arrival at the headquarters of the Japanese Cabinet, HM the King was welcomed [...] > read more

HM King rules out one-party rule in Bahrain

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa reaffirmed his desire to build a Bahraini society free from any unilateral domination. He pointed out his efforts to promote democracy ever since he launched the reform project, citing the final report of [...] > read more

MOFA briefs Diplomatic Corps on Bahrain blast

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Undersecretary Ambassador Abdullah Abdulatif Abdullah met with ambassadors from Arab and foreign countries. The undersecretary briefed the ambassadors on the latest developments in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the terrorist explosion that occurred on Monday [...] > read more

No security fears among F1 teams about Bahrain GP

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Bernie Ecclestone said that Formula 1 teams have not shown any security worries regarding Bahrain F1 competition, which is organized for 20-22 April 2012. He added that there are no signs to abandon this year’s race would be held as [...] > read more

Police arrests 11 for ransacking a store

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Eleven suspects, in the case of vandalizing a 24-hrs market in Riffa, were arrested, revealed by the Chief of Public Security Major General Tariq Al Hassan. Major General Al Hassan said that on Tuesday police forces were able to arrest [...] > read more

Bahraini students display a Smart Robot at IT Expo 2012

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In line with Bahrain IT Expo 2012, the Bahraini team, consisting of seven male and female students from Creativity Private School, displayed Smart Robot project which they have created based on an ultra sound censor technique. The project attracted expo [...] > read more

eGov Forum 2012 concludes on a high note

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With the closure of the Bahrain International eGovernment Forum 2012, being under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Information and Communication Technology (SCICT); IT enthusiasts, experts, [...] > read more

Real estate transactions volume to reach $400b

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Despite the continuing economic uncertainty, the 2012 transactional volumes are likely to be at $400 billion, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Capital Markets Research. Preliminary direct commercial property transaction volume figures released on Wednesday by Jones Lang LaSalle Capital Markets [...] > read more

Williams F1 team carries high hopes at Bahrain GP

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It scarcely seems credible that these words belong in the same sentence, but in 2011, Williams scored just five world championship points. As a result of this nadir, some 15 years after it last achieved a world championship title, an [...] > read more

Bahrain denies Americans’ role in Al Eker blast

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Bahrain tonight denied arresting two US residents along with the saboteurs and thugs accused of plotting the terror blast which targeted policemen at Al-Ekar Village. It issued a statement refuting baseless allegations posted on social media sites and on media [...] > read more

Bahrain issues advisory to its citizens in US, Mexico

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised all citizens who are located in the Gulf of California, both in the US or Mexican coastlines which were hit by a series of earthquakes, to exercise caution and follow safety instructions issued [...] > read more

Interior Minister holds talks with Tim Figures

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Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa received Head of Aviation Security of the Aviation Directorate of the UK Department of Transport Tim Figures and reviewed cooperation, especially exchanging expertise between the two friendly countries. Issues of mutual [...] > read more

GCC Permanent Rep in Geneva condemns blast in Bahrain

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Geneva-based GCC Permanent Representatives strongly condemned at the terror bomb blast which injured policemen whilst on duty last Monday at Al-Ekar village. They addressed a joint letter in this regard to the UN Human Rights High Commission and the UN [...] > read more

Etihad Airways seals agreement with Kanoo Travel

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Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has signed a strategic partnership with Kanoo Travel to open four joint retail locations in Dubai. The new partnership will allow Etihad Airways to better serve the needs of travellers [...] > read more

Loud bang at Exhibition Ave causes panic

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A loud sound heard in an open ground. On examination 2 cars were found with minor damage. Investigation launched, according to the Ministry of Interior message on Twitter. The eye witnesses confirmed that total three cars parked in an open [...] > read more

HM King Hamad visits Japanese Parliament

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HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa paid a visit to the Japanese Parliament where he was welcomed by Japanese Parliament Speaker Takahiro Yokomichi. HM the King held a meeting with Japanese Parliament Speaker and his deputy and affirmed Bahrain’s [...] > read more

Bahrain F1 Grand Prix should go ahead: Bernie Ecclestone

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President and CEO of Formula One Management and Formula One Administration, Bernie Ecclestone insisted that the much debated Bahrain Grand Prix will go ahead, as the issue overshadowed the lead-up to the Shanghai race. Bernie said that the race is [...] > read more

Italy condemns bombing incident in Bahrain

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The Italian Government on Thursday condemned the bombing incident of Al Eker which left seven security personnel injured four of them seriously. “Italy strongly condemned the bomb attack in Bahrain or doesn’t condone any act of violence for that matter,” [...] > read more

Arab countries face security, safety and economic challenges

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Despite the developmental achievement attained by the Arab counties during the past period, the Arab world is still facing regional and international challenges affecting the security, safety and economies of its nations, the Union of Arab Banks (UAB) in a [...] > read more

Naheed Asghar Ali passes away

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Ms Naheed Asghar Ali, wife of prominent businessman and a leading community leader Chaudhary Mohammad Akram, passed away on Friday. Few months back, she was diagnosed with a cancer and since then she had been receiving treatment in Bahrain and [...] > read more

BIC welcomes FIA statement

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Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) welcomed the statement which the FIA has issued regarding next week’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, together with the clarification provided by the Commercial Rights Holder, following recent media speculations. BIC has been clear throughout recent [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King arrives in Bangkok for talks

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa arrived in Bangkok on a visit to Thailand during which he will meet Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn and Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to discuss solid ties of friendship binding both countries, regional [...] > read more

HM King Hamad wraps up Japanese visit

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa left Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) wrapping up an official visit to Japan at an invitation from Japan’s Emperor Akihito. HM the King held discussions with the Emperor of Japan on strong bilateral [...] > read more

Bahrain F1 Grand Prix will go ahead: FIA

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The Bahrain Formula One will go ahead as scheduled, it was confirmed by the FIA. In a statement issued on Friday, the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) said that it was “satisfied that all the proper security measures are in [...] > read more

StanChart takes center stage at BME Awards

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Standard Chartered said that its SME Banking Business was recognised as the ‘Best SME Internet Banking provider and Best SME Foreign Exchange Service Provider’ for 2012 by Banker Middle East, a leading regional banking and finance publication. The Bank received [...] > read more

GP2 series offer non-stop thrill at BIC

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Bahrain’s motorsport fans will be able to enjoy twice the action in the GP2 Series this month at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. Back-to-back rounds in GP2’s 2012 championship will be held at “The Home of Motorsport in the [...] > read more

High demand of tickets for F1 Grand Prix

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Tickets to this year’s Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix continue to be in high demand. The countdown to the highly anticipated race weekend is in its final week, and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is now all geared up [...] > read more

BBK hosts series of lectures at RUW

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BBK supported a series of lectures organized by the faculty of Business and Financial Sciences of the Royal University for Women. The series of lectures was divided into several sessions; BBK’s Chief Executive A. Karim Bucheery was the guest speaker, [...] > read more

UN Secretary General condemns El Aker bomb blast

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The Secretary-General condemns the bomb attack which recently took place in the vicinity of the village of Eker, Bahrain, injuring several policemen. In a statement he also remained concerned by the excessive use of force against protestors which continues to [...] > read more

KFH-B launches Libshara Savings Account

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KFH-Bahrain announced the launch of the Libshara Savings Account; an Islamic Shari’a compliant scheme that offers customers the chance to win 75 cash prizes every month plus one of two grand prize “luxury villas” “We are delighted to offer our [...] > read more

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team eyes good results

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Mercedes-Benz is a grandee name in motor sport, with the first Mercedes having been built as a bespoke racing machine in 1901 that set a standard of success for future generations. Among the marque’s many achievements are Grand Prix victories [...] > read more

Dr. Fakhro met with the President of Kinoshita Pearl

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro met with the President of Kinoshita Pearl Akira Kinoshita on the sidelines of the official visit by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Japan. During the meeting which was held [...] > read more

Dr. Fakhro meets with CEO of Toppan Forms

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Within the framework of the official visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to Japan, Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro met with President and CEO of Toppan Forms Shu Sakurai, Senior Managing Director Toshira Masuda [...] > read more

Bahiraini Expo unveils in Tokyo

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Speaking at the launching of a Bahrain Exhibition in Tokyo which was held in conjunction with the Bahrain Japan Economic Forum, Dr. Hassan A. Fakhro, Minister of Industry of Commerce, Kingdom of Bahrain, expressed his pleasure at the general interest [...] > read more

Dr Mirza receives ISO-9001:2008 QC

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Energy Minister Dr. Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza received National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) Secretary-General and Head of NOGA Quality Committee Dr. Ahmed Ali- Al-Sharyan marking the renewal of ISO-9001:2008 Quality Certification for 2012. World leading certification agency Det Norske [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King holds talks with Thai CP

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa met in Sukutai Palace Thai Crown Prince, Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, in the presence of his wife, and discussed with him strong and growing Bahraini-Thai relations in various areas. HM the King expressed [...] > read more

Govt remains committed to serve citizens

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who visited Muharraq where he was received with cheers of love and loyalty, assured his keenness to keep in touch with citizens, reach out to their needs and follow-up [...] > read more

Batelco blocks SMS code misused by a TV Channel

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Batelco announced that the Company had immediately blocked a premium SMS Code for sending text messages, which was being used improperly by a TV channel, without Batelco’s consent. Following a brief investigation today it was discovered that the premium SMS [...] > read more

Ban Ki-moon meets with Kofi Annan

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The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, on Saturday evening in Geneva, Switzerland. They had an in-depth exchange of views based on [...] > read more

BDF Commander in Chief attends joint Air Force Exercise

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The BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa attended this morning part of the activities of the Joint Basic Liaison Drill 2012 implemented by the Bahrain Royal Air force with participation from a number of air forces [...] > read more

BCCI Committee on National Unity meets

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The National Unity Initiative’s work team confirmed the importance of working for unity and nation-building, stressing the importance of fostering the spirit of brotherhood among different components of the Bahraini community. This came at the team’s second meeting held lately [...] > read more

Solidarity opens Insurance Services Centre in Seef

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Solidarity General Takaful Company, a subsidiary of one of the largest Takaful Group’s in the world, Solidarity Group Holding, has inaugurated its new main Insurance Services Centre in Seef District. The Insurance Services Center was inaugurated by Abdul Rahman Al-Baker, [...] > read more

KFH-B becomes the 1st to get ISO 27001 Certification

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain (KFH-B) Data Centre has been awarded the information security certification ISO 27001, following a stringent audit by an international certification body. It is the first Islamic bank in the Kingdom to achieve this milestone. The ISO certificate [...] > read more

BMI Bank launches eStatement service

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BMI Bank launched of a new eStatement service for its customers providing them added value, anywhere/anytime convenience and a higher level of security through a password protected file that is sent to them via a secure email. The service, available [...] > read more

F1 Grand Prix in Bahrain is stamp of confidence: Cabinet

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The Cabinet welcomed the decision of the FIA for hosting the Formula One Grand Prix Championship in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which according to Cabinet, reflects confidence in the atmospheres of security and stability which qualify the Kingdom of Bahrain [...] > read more

His Majesty King Hamad holds talks with Thai Premier

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received at his residence in the Thai capital Bangkok Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. HM the King welcomed the upcoming visit of the Thai premier to Bahrain, accompanied by a high profile [...] > read more

GCC FMs to discuss Iranian President’s visit to Abu Musa

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The 39th GCC Foreign Ministers meeting in Doha on Tuesday will discuss and take a united stance on the provocative visit by the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad last Wednesday to the Emirati Island Abu Musa, which had been occupied by [...] > read more

BBK’s net profit reaches BD12m in Q1

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BBK Bank reported net profit of BD12 million in for the 1st quarter of 2012, with a growth of 3% compared to BD 11.7 million for the same period of last year. The Bank’s Board of Directors in its meeting [...] > read more

Middle East debt issuance doubles to $11b in Q1

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Debt issuance nearly doubled to $11 billion and M&A reached $4.9 billion, whilst equity capital market issuances and banking fees fell to almost $1 billion and $91 million respectively,” according to Thomson Reuters Q1 2012 regional investment banking review. Thomson [...] > read more

Silah to train, employ 100 Bahrainis

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Tamkeen signed an agreement with Silah Gulf (Silah) to train and employ 100 Bahraini secondary school and university graduates in the company. The agreement is part of Tamkeen’s Employment Support scheme, which helps private sector companies identify their employment requirements [...] > read more

Gulf Air signs code-share with Safi Airways

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Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has signed a code-share agreement with Afghanistan’s international carrier Safi Airways on its Kabul–Bahrain route as of 23rd April 2012. Under the code-share agreement signed recently, both airlines will be [...] > read more

Key players discuss challenges face by Takaful

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More than 350 key players and thought leaders in the global Takaful industry attended the opening ceremony of the two day of the 7th Annual World Takaful Conference (WTC 2012). “The Shari-ah compliant insurance industry has witnessed significant internationalization in [...] > read more

Joint Air Force excercise wins praise

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Basic Liaison Drill 2012 (BLD 2012) is currently carried out by Bahrain Defense Force (BDF) and represented by the Bahraini Royal Air Force (BRAF) and continuing until April 18, enjoys a wide participation of sisterly and friendly States, who have [...] > read more

Air Chief rules out speculations about joint exercise

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Bahrain Royal Air Force (BRAF) Commander ruled out sending political or military notices to any party through holding the Basic Liaison Drill 2012 (BLD 2012) in Bahrain. BRAF Commander told Al-Ayam newspaper that the participation of countries from outside of [...] > read more

Govt offers over 100,000 housing units: HRH Premier

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The Government has provided over 100,000 housing services, including housing units, loans and flats, in the past four decades, emphasizing that the BD3billion-projects reflect the government’s strong resolve to ensure the Bahraini citizens better living and stable family conditions. This [...] > read more

Foreign Minister holds talks with Richard N. Haass

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Minister of Foreign Affairs Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa received met with the US Council the US Council on Foreign Relations Chairman Richard N. Haass at the Ministry’s premises. The council is a non-partisan organization. During the [...] > read more

Two terrorists enter Bahrain embassy in London

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Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry on Monday announced that two terrorists had climbed onto the roof of the London-based Bahrain embassy from a neighbouring building at 1.30 pm (London Time). The Embassy informed the British Foreign Office, asking speedy measures to be [...] > read more

Saudi Arabia tops the ladder with 188% mobile penetration

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Saudi Arabia occupied the first rank among the countries with the highest proportion of mobile phone users in the world with a ratio of 188%, followed by Vietnam and Oman in the second and third places respectively, according to a [...] > read more

Zain and Viva vie for TMT Finance Middle East 2012 Awards

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The Telecom Deal of the Year short list for the TMT Finance Middle East 2012 Awards have been announced highlighting over $10billion of successful merger and financing activity by the region’s leading telecom operators over the past year. Saudi Telecom [...] > read more

Samsung brings Smart TVs to Bahrain

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The future of Smart TV is here – Samsung Gulf Electronics, a market leader in consumer electronics, launched the 2012 Samsung Smart TV lineup in Bahrain. The new Smart TV lineup is set to redefine the way in which consumers [...] > read more

Dr Mirza patronises the event on the risk management

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Under the auspices of Minister of Energy Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Oil and Gas (NOGA) Holding Company conducts a specialized training program under the title “Awareness on Risk Management and Sustainability of Business [...] > read more

F1 teams and drivers start arriving in Bahrain

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Formula 1 drivers and team members have begun arriving in the Kingdom ahead of this weekend’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Sauber ace Sergio Perez and Williams Talent Bruno Senna were the first two Formula One drivers to touch down [...] > read more

Bahrain Grand Prix is a sign of pride for all Bahrain

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, who visited the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and inspected ongoing preparations ahead of the Bahrain International Grand Prix, said that F1 Grand Prix was a [...] > read more

Gulf Air brings F1 cargo for Bahrain Grand Prix

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Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the title sponsor of the Bahrain Grand Prix races since its inception 2004, will be transporting over 15000 kgs of cargo material that are required by the F1 teams [...] > read more

Bahrain’s 4th annual Food & Hospitality Expo 2012 opens

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His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain delegated Industry and Commerce Minister Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bahrain Convention and Exhibition Center Dr. Hassan Fakhro to open the 4th [...] > read more

Reuters launches new model to assess credit risk

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Thomson Reuters, the world’s leading supplier of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, today announced that it has introduced the StarMine SmartRatios Credit Risk Model to assess the credit risk of publicly traded companies. The SmartRatios model is an intuitive [...] > read more

Tenmou plans 1st MENA Angel Investors Conference

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Tenmou, Bahrain’s first business angel company is hosting the first MENA Angel Investors Conference at The Ritz- Carlton Hotel on 19th April 2012. The conference will focus on an exchange of experiences in seed and early stage investments between the [...] > read more

JP Morgan honours KFH-B with Quality Certificate

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain (KFH-B) was awarded the J.P. Morgan ‘Outstanding Payments Quality Certificate 2011’, in recognition of its superior high-quality performance and commitment to quality achieved by the Bank in the area of fund transfer. J.P. Morgan Chase awards the [...] > read more

bni announces winners of F1 tickets winners

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In line with bni’s commitment to its customers, Bahrain National Insurance (bni), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bahrain National Holding Company (BNH), announced the winners of its ‘Insure & Win’ raffle draw campaign. The raffle was held on April 16th, [...] > read more

Saudi banks can spur lending in 2012: Fitch

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Saudi Arabian banks have plenty of scope to fund loan growth in 2012 as the sector relaxes the cautious approach to lending that has dominated in the last few years, according to Fitch Ratings Rising deposits and several years of [...] > read more

Global Finance Industry on the brink of reinvention

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For the first time since the 1930’s, the global finance services industry is on the edge of reinvention, according to a Deloitte report entitled ‘Evolving in response to global re-regulation’. With numerous global regulations surfacing, such as International Financial Reporting [...] > read more

Works Minister unveils blue print of development

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Essam bin Abdulla Khalaf, Bahrain’s Minister of Works, revealed details of upgrades to Bahrain’s roads and infrastructure at a lunch meeting of the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel in Manama. The Minister outlined his [...] > read more

Ayadi $60,000 jackpot wins by a Bahraini housewife

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BMI Bank announced three lucky winners in Ayadi’s April monthly prize draw of $70,000. The first prize winner of $ 60,000 was Maha Al Hajraf while the two other monthly winners, Rabab Mohammed and Alemash Daredia were awarded $5,000 cash [...] > read more

Batelco, Qtel inks agreement

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Following the successful partnership agreement signed between Batelco and Qtel both sides have concluded a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This MoU complements the previous partnership agreement and is in line with Batelco’s ambitious strategy that aims to extend the company’s [...] > read more

BBK offers mortgage financing for Jeyoun project

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BBK signed an agreement with ALARGAN Bahrain to provide mortgage finance to ease the process of payments for clients interested in purchasing property in ALARGAN Bahrain’s latest real estate project, Jeyoun. The project’s units were first introduced for sale in [...] > read more

Banks restrict ATM cash withdrawal to BD200 during F1

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Banks in Bahrain have restricted the amount to BD 200 for one time cash withdrawal through ATMs per day as part of pre cautionary measures and to be more vigilant during the F1 Grand Prix season. “The withdrawal restriction goes [...] > read more

Bahrain F1 Grand Prix 2012 takes off on Friday

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The stage is set for the 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place this weekend at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. Drivers, team personnel, officials and fans continued to fly into the kingdom Wednesday ahead of [...] > read more

Yuvi to attend Bahrain F1 Grand Prix

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Celebrated cricketer and the Man of the Tournament in Cricket’s World Cup 2011 Yuvraj Singh will be in Bahrain to attend the F1 Grand Prix starting on April 20th. Singh, who recently came back from the USA after getting the [...] > read more

‘Security’ a non-issue for Bahrain F1 Grand Prix: Chairman

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With all security measures are in place, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s 8th Grand Prix will kick off on 20th April with an expected turnout of 80,000 plus this year. The Chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit Zayed Al Zayani told [...] > read more

F1 Gulf Air Grand Prix weekend begins

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The long wait is over; the region’s biggest sporting and social spectacle is finally here! The 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix flags off Friday (April 20) with tens of thousands of fans expected to flock to Bahrain [...] > read more

Force India was not targeted by rioters: IAA

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On Wednesday evening, four members of the Force India team were traveling between the Bahrain International Circuit and Manama, according to Information Affairs Authority (IAA) statement. They drove through an isolated incident involving a handful of illegal protestors acting violently [...] > read more

Thugs arrest not related to F1 Grand Prix: Police Chief

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Reacting to reports by some news agencies about arrests before the hosting of Formula One Grand Prix, Chief of Public Security Major-General Tariq Al Hassan said on Thursday that as part of the police duty to enforce the law, a [...] > read more

Bhoja Air crash claims 127 lives in Pakistan

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A passenger jet carrying 127 people on board has crashed into wheat fields near the Pakistani capital Islamabad as it tried to land in bad weather, according to the reports emerged from Islamabad on late afternoon Friday. The officials at [...] > read more

Prince Salman says Bahrain’s F1 a “Force for Good”

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince of Bahrain, who visited the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) on Friday accompanied by Bernie Ecclestone Formula One Chief Executive, said that F1 Grand Prix 2012 is a ‘Force for [...] > read more

F1 boss brush asides rumours about F1 team pullout

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Bernie Ecclestone, Formula One Chief Executive, said that the Bahrain Grand Prix kicks off on Friday as planned and with all teams participating, according to Information Affairs Authority, (IAA) statement. “I have no knowledge of any teams planning to withdraw [...] > read more

Bahrain F1 Grand Prix kicks off amidst tight security

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Gulf Air F1 Grand Prix Bahrain kicked off on Friday amidst tight security measures put in place by the authorities in and around the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The Government repeatedly said that there was no security issue [...] > read more

Overwhelming majority backs Bahrain’s F1 Grand Prix

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Overwhelming majority of 85% of people living in Bahrain back the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, according to a survey conducted this week by Nielsen, an independent global provider of information and insights, on behalf of the Bahrain Economic Development [...] > read more

Top consumer products companies sale reach $2.82t

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The top 250 consumer product companies generated combined sales of more than $2.82 trillion in 2010, a significant increase over 2009, when sales totalled $2.57 trillion. Emerging markets present highest growth opportunities for consumer products in 2012, according to the [...] > read more

Prince Salman visits Bahrain International Circuit

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Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince of Bahrain on Friday visited the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) accompanied by the Bernie Ecclestone, Formula One Chief Executive on the day one of F1 Grand Prix 2012. The Chairman of [...] > read more

Bahrain’s ICT excellence wins praise at UN ICT meet

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In response to an invitation by the United Nations Organization, Mr. Mohammad Ali Al Qaed, the eGovernment Authority Chief Executive Officer participated in a high-level meeting held in Hong Kong, China; where participants discussed issues relating Information and Communication Technology [...] > read more

HM King welcomes start of Grand Prix

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Sunday welcomed the start to the Bahrain Grand Prix and confirmed his Government was committed to further reconciliation and reform in the kingdom. His Majesty will on Sunday attend the climax [...] > read more

F1 is a landmark achievement for Bahrain: Prince Salman

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, hailed guests and citizens for showing keenness on attending the Bahrain Grand Prix. “This race is a landmark achievement for Bahrain. Bahrainis have taken pride over [...] > read more

Sebastian Vettel took Pole Position

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Twice World champion Sebastian Vettel took pole position for the first time this season on Saturday, edging out McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The race will be held on Sunday April 22 at the Bahrain [...] > read more

Bahraini authorities initiate inquiry into a homicide case

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The Ministry of Interior of the Government of Bahrain can confirm that the body of a man was found in the village of Shakhoura this morning at 8.10am on Saturday 21st April 2012, according to a statement issued by Information [...] > read more

Vettel tops qualifying session at Bahrain F1 Grand Prix

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Sebastian Vettel of Germany from Red Bull Racing team on Saturday topped the qualifying session for the F1 Grand Prix 2012 being held at Bahrain International Circuit Al Sakhir: Picture by Sohail Ali. The other two toppers are Lewis Hamilton [...] > read more

LMFAO concert at BIC cancelled

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The much-awaited concert and perhaps the one of the most attractive features for the youngsters and families to enjoy during the Bahrain F1 Grand Prix 2012 has been cancelled, according to a statement issued by the Bahrain International Circuit on [...] > read more

Mercedes’ Nico tops the ladder in third practice session

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Mark Webber at third place in 3rd Practice on Saturday: Picture Sohail Ali Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg won the third practice session at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) on Saturday with the best lap time of 1:33:254 ahead of qualifying round [...] > read more

Bahrain Grand Prix is one of the best: F1 teams reps

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The team representatives of Force India, Ferrari, Lotus, McLaren, Mercedes and Red Bull told a press conference that Bahrain F1 Grand Prix is one the best organised races. Team representatives who addressed the Press conference include Bob FERNLEY (Force India), [...] > read more

Giedo had a storming sprint race in Bahrain: Caterham Racing

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Caterham Racing’s Giedo van der Garde had a storming sprint race today in Bahrain, working his way through the field from P23 on the grid up to ninth position at the chequered flag and only narrowly missing out on a [...] > read more

Caterham F1 team finds Bahrain GP an interesting race

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Vitaly Petrov, car 21, chassis CT01-#2: “That was a really interesting race, particularly at the start when there was a lot of overtaking and it was good to be right in the middle of the early battles. We made some [...] > read more

Bahrain race proves tough for Ferrari team

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Only eight points in the bag for Scuderia Ferrari come the end of the Bahrain Grand Prix, the fourth round of this year’s World Championship. For the first time this season, both F2012s finished in the top ten: seventh was [...] > read more

F1 Village offers non-stop entertainment to thousands

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Those attending the 2012 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday enjoyed plenty of fun and excitement off of the race track in the F1 Village vending area. Loads of activities were on hand, and several of Formula [...] > read more

Valsecchi, Azzam and Siedler claim victories in support races

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Davide Valsecchi and Ramez Azzam each claimed a superb double in their respective championships Sunday while Norbert Siedler was also triumphant. Valsecchi won a dramatic sprint race in the GP2 Series while Azzam captured race two in the WGA Supercars [...] > read more

Bahrain hosts a successful Grand Prix: Chairman BIC

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Bahrain’s F1 Grand Prix was a resounding success, a top official at the Bahrain International Circuit said. “I would first of all like to congratulate Sebastian Vettel and the rest of the Red Bull team on an outstanding victory today [...] > read more

ABC’s Q1 profit increases 13% to $54m

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Bahrain-based Arab Banking Corporation (ABC) reported consolidated group net profit, for the first quarter of 2012, of $54 million, 13% higher than the first quarter of last year. Operating revenues rose to $214 million, 9% growth over the first quarter [...] > read more

GIB arranges SR500m sukuk for Ajil Cayman

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GIB Capital, acting as joint lead manager and joint book runner with Riyad Capital, has successfully closed Ajil Financial Services Company’s privately placed SR500 million Sukuk, issued via Ajil Cayman – a limited liability special-purpose company incorporated in the Cayman [...] > read more

Vettel tops the ladder in 2012 FIA World Championship standings

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With a stunning win at the Bahrain F1 Grand Prix on Sunday at the Bahrain International Circuit at Sakhir, Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel now at the top ladder of the 2012 FIA World Championship standings. Grand Prix motor racing thundered [...] > read more

Bahrain’s ‘to be or not to be’ Grand Prix concludes

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Bahrain’s much controversial F1 Grand Prix 2012 final race is taking place at the Bahrain International Circuit Sakhir today, thanks to the vision of the FIA leadership and especially of Formula One Chief Executive Bernie Ecclestone who insisted to see [...] > read more

Representatives of 45 countries to attend AIM in Dubai

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The regional leading emerging market economic forum AIM 2012, will take place in Dubai between 1-3 May at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre with 4000 participants from 45 countries. The list of countries includes 15 African countries, 11 [...] > read more

Etisalat profit grew to Dh3.430b in Q1 of 2012

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Etisalat, the leading telecommunications group that delivers innovative solutions to help transform the communities in which it operates to accelerate social development and economic growth, today announced a Group profit of Dh3.430 billion and a net profit after government royalty [...] > read more

Takaful Re hosts 4th Family Takaful Workshop

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Takaful Re, one of the leading Re-Takaful providers in the region, announced the finalization of its 4th Family Takaful Workshop. The workshop, which took place at Millennium Plaza Hotel, Dubai, tackled various topics including the Malaysian Experience in Family Takaful; [...] > read more

BA didn’t get papers of people facing deportation

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British Airways on Monday said that it was unable to board three British facing deportation on Sunday evening at the Bahrain International Airport because the airline didn’t get the required papers. “We did not receive the correct paperwork from the [...] > read more

AUB profit surges 6.6% in Q1 to $82.4m

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Bahrain-based Ahli United Bank (AUB) reported a net profit, attributable to its equity shareholders, of $82.4 million for the quarter ended 31 March 2012, a 6.6% increase over the same period in 2011 (Q1/2011: $77.3 million). The resultant Earnings per [...] > read more

Information State Minister to represent media in Parliament

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Minister of State for Information Affairs Samira Rajab said that her appointment does not mean the return of the old Information Ministry, cancelled by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in 2010. In a statement to London-based Al-Sharq [...] > read more

Formation of GCC Police Force on the cards

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Representatives of GCC Ministries of Interior held a meeting this morning in Bahrain to study the establishment of a GCC police force. Chairman of the meeting Major-General Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Shehri gave a speech welcoming the attendants, considering this meeting [...] > read more

Bahrain emerges stronger in post 2011 events

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa on Tuesday said that hosting regular and successive functions in the Kingdom was a living proof that it the Kingdom had emerged stronger than before, thanks to the determination [...] > read more

KFH-B staff spends day out with CEO

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Kuwait Finance House–Bahrain (KFH-B) organised a full day out with the Bank’s Managing Director and CEO. Each month, 20 randomly selected staff from the Bank is given an opportunity to spend a full day out of the office with Abdulhakeem [...] > read more

Gatehouse realises £34.4m in UK realty investment

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Gatehouse Bank plc (Gatehouse), a London-based wholesale Shariah compliant investment bank, announced the successful delivery of its realised investment in UK real estate, through the sale of a two properties as part of a UK student accommodation portfolio in a [...] > read more

Bahrain’s broadband witnesses improvement in Q1

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Bahrain’s broadband service witnessed an improvement in the first quarter of the year, according to TRA. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has released its quarter 1 of 2012 broadband analysis report on the quality of fixed 2Mbps Broadband residential services [...] > read more

Moody’s reaffirms GIB’s credit rating

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The international credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service has reaffirmed Gulf International Bank’s (GIB) long-term and short-term foreign currency deposit ratings of A3 and P-2 respectively. Moody’s explained in its report that GIB’s solid capital base; high liquidity and improving [...] > read more

UAE gets 1st financial services association

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A group of leading financial institutions in the United Arab Emirates have established the Financial Services Association (UAE), the first of its kind; a non-profit policy development and trade association for the financial services sector in the UAE. Such associations [...] > read more

Islamic banks enhance risk management capacity

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In light of the ongoing global financial climate, most world markets and sectors continue to be adversely impacted, including the Islamic Finance sector, which is currently facing regulatory and practice-related reforms. A report recently published by the Deloitte Middle East [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro lauds private sector’s role to stimulate the economy

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro, who opened the state-of-the-art Samsung Display Centre at Al Hawaj Salmaniya, confirmed Government and Ministry support to all initiatives and steps carried out by national companies and investors aimed to revitalize the commercial [...] > read more

Michael Venus takes over as Etihad’s Corporate Affairs VP

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Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, announced that Michael Venus will take charge of the company’s Corporate Affairs department. Michael, who has been the airline’s Head of International Media Relations since June 2011, has been appointed Vice President [...] > read more

Free flow of commerce vital for the global economy: Admiral Fox

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The free flow of commerce is vital to the global economy. Mines pose a threat to all maritime traffic, regardless of nationality or purpose; we can, and will, respond to any threats or disruptive behavior by those who wish to [...] > read more

IDB and Malaysia to host Investment Forum

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The Islamic Development Bank Group and Malaysia will jointly organize the Malaysia-IDBG Investment Forum from 9-11 May 2012, at JW Marriott Hotel, in Kuala Lumpur, under the auspices of Haji Mohamed Najib bin Tunsari Haji Abdul Razak, the Prime Minister [...] > read more

Explosion targets and injures four policemen

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The General Directorate of the Northern Governorate Police has announced that an explosion targeting police officers occurred in Duraz at 10:35PM on Tuesday (April 24th), according to Information Affairs Authority statement. “The explosion seems to have been aimed at injuring [...] > read more

Microsoft honours the winners of Bahrain Imagine Cup

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Microsoft announced the top three winning teams participating at the Bahrain Imagine Cup 2012 Local competition held at Isa Cultural Center in Juffair, under the patronage of eGovernment Authority CEO Mohamed Ali Al Qaed, with the support of Zain Bahrain. [...] > read more

Dr. Fakhro Chairs 16th Joint Committee Meeting

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro commended the cooperation of authorities and institutions participating in the 16th Joint Committee to facilitate the procedures and transaction in both industrial and commercial sectors. He also expressed appreciation to investors, traders, accountants [...] > read more

Court to examine 300 witnesses in SMC Doctors’ case

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General Lower Court Attorney Ahmed Al Doseri declared regarding Salmaniya Medical Complex doctors’ crimes that the attorney had already called to hear for about 300 witnesses consisting facts witnesses, victims and those affected by the crimes committed by the accused [...] > read more

HM King highlights media role in contemporary world

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa urged the media to be upgraded, stressing its growing importance in our contemporary world. He also highlighted the necessity to promote the culture of human rights, underlining Bahrain’s strides in this regard-being signatory [...] > read more

Bahraini youths are Kingdom’s future

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, said that Bahraini youths are real assets of the Kingdom’s future. “Youths’ adherence to national fundamentals and strong patriotic belonging have strengthened our belief in [...] > read more

Bahrain sets a new benchmark in environment conservation

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Monarch of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has deputized His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, the Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and President of the Public Commission for Protection of [...] > read more

First Motors unveils Hyundai HPAP

Published on 0000-00-00 00:00:00

First Motors, the authorized dealers of Hyundai in the kingdom of Bahrain announced the introduction of the Hyundai Premium Assurance Program (HPAP) that assures customers of getting the best value for their purchase. The new programme offers Genesis and Centennial [...] > read more

BIC 2000 set to amuse fans during weekend

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The seventh and final round of the 2011/2012 BIC 2,000cc Challenge takes place this weekend (Friday and Saturday, April 27 and 28) at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East”. It will be held in [...] > read more

Leadership can raise 16% company valuation

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Market perceptions of leaders move share prices – and a new report from Deloitte, entitled The Leadership Premium, reveals just how much. Based on a survey of leading market analysts globally, the report finds that the quality of senior leadership—including [...] > read more

WGA Supercars Champs honoured

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Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) hosted an end-of-season awards party in honour of the winners, participants and sponsors of the 2011/2012 WGA Supercars Middle East Championship. The event was held at Al Riffa Ballroom of InterContinental Regency Hotel in Manama. BIC [...] > read more

BisB posts $1.4m net profit for Q1

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Bahrain Islamic Bank, reported a net profit of BD543, 000 ($1.4 million) in first quarter of this year compared with BD1.5m for the same period last year. Operating profit was BD2m compared with BD2.5m last time and the bank has [...] > read more

Attackers on security officials face legal consequences

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who visited the security officers and the Bahraini family who were injured in a cowardly criminal act perpetrated by some terrorists, said conspiracy to divide the society would not [...] > read more

HM King holds talks with Prince Bander

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received at Safriya Palace, in the Presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud on [...] > read more

HM King lauds BIC for hosting successful F1 race

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa lauded the tremendous success of F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2012, describing it as honourable achievement for all Bahrainis who worked hard to ensure success of the international sporting event. HM [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Monarch receives Douglas J. Katz

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His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Bahraini Monarch, received at Safriya Palace, the Vice-President of the American Bahraini Friendship Society, Douglas J. Katz, who is currently visiting Bahrain His Majesty the King expressed his pride with the [...] > read more

Batelco Group remains resilient on profitability in Q1

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Batelco Group, the regional telecommunications operator of reference with operations across six countries, on Thursday said that it had realised BD16.1million net profit in first quarter of the year. The Group Chairman said that the Q1 results was marked by [...] > read more

Bahrain’s First Lady patronises regional conference

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Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa will patronise the opening ceremony of the regional conference themed “Pre-historic eras, early dawn of civilizations in the Arab region”, organized by the Ministry of Culture from April 28th to May [...] > read more

Bahrain backs UAE over row with Iran

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ghanim bin Fadhl Al-Buainain reaffirmed Bahrain’s support for the civilised and peaceful approach adopted by the UAE to resolve the issue of the three occupied islands, either through direct negotiation or amicably via international [...] > read more

Kellogg starts final 2000CC weekend leading the pack

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In the BIC 2,000cc Challenge, Stephen Kellogg continued his fine dominance of the 2011/2012 season with a brilliant start to this year’s final meeting. Driving a Honda CIVIC, Kellogg clinched pole position for the weekend’s first race after clocking a [...] > read more

Valsecchi maintains winning spree in Bahrain

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Davide Valsecchi continued his winning ways in the GP2 Series at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) on Friday. Racing at “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East” for the second successive week, Valsecchi captured his third win in a row [...] > read more

Municipal Conference concludes on a high note

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The 7th Municipal Work Conference and Exhibition which held in Bahrain adopted 20 recommendations. Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Director General of the Manama Municipality said that the formation of the local observatory for enhancing governance and administration. Chairman [...] > read more

Bahrain’s economy shows resilience in 2011

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The economies of Bahrain, Jordan, Oman and Kuwait show strength during 2011, according to The Russell Frontier Index. The Russell Frontier Index (RFI) represents the investable frontier equity market and its segments comprehensively. In the Middle East it captures the [...] > read more

Dubai World acquires remaining stake in Atlantis

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Istithmar World PJSC (Istithmar World), a subsidiary of Dubai World, confirmed the completion of the purchase of Kerzner International Holdings Limited’s (‘KIHL’) 50% interest in Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai (‘The Atlantis’; ‘The Resort’) for $250 million, thus becoming the [...] > read more

Government remains vigilant on prices: Minister

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro confirmed government and Ministry follow up for all developments of local market and the prices movement especially food and consumers goods that increases in demand by consumers, pointing the positive role played by [...] > read more

Over $215b projects take center stage at Petrotech 2012

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With 145 projects are in the pipeline worth $215 billion, over 3,000 downstream oil and gas professionals are set to converge in Bahrain from 20–23 May for the 8th Edition of the Middle East Refining and Petrochemicals Conference and Exhibition [...] > read more

Bahrain City Centre achieves major milestones in 2011

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Bahrain City Centre, the Kingdom’s leading lifestyle destination recently hosted their Annual General Meeting (AGM) which reviewed past highlights of 2011. Hosted in the casual settings of Wahooo! Waterpark, the venue was well-suited to the event’s theme: ‘Catch the Wave [...] > read more

Bapco gets new board for three years term

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A new board of directors has been announced in Bapco with effect from 1st April 2012 upon a NOGA Resolution No.6 of 2012 dated 26th March 2012, issued by Dr. Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy and Chairman of [...] > read more

Dillmann gets historic first GP2 victory

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Tom Dillmann capped a memorable GP2 Series weekend at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) yesterday by winning his first-ever race in the highly acclaimed Formula One feeder series. Dillmann triumphed in a thrilling GP2 Sprint to mark the completion of round [...] > read more

Birkin claims brilliant double; Kellogg clinches title

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Tim Birkin driving a Honda Integra came away with twice the reason to celebrate in the BIC 2,000cc Challenge season finale. Heading into the opening seven-lap event, championship leader Stephen Kellogg had captured pole position during Friday’s qualifying, but stewards [...] > read more

Bahrain Bourse honours TradeQuest challengers

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In the presence of Rasheed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain and Afnan Rashid Al Zayani, Vice Chairman of Bahrain Bourse (BHB), the final TradeQuest Awards Ceremony was held on Saturday. Forty six students who took part [...] > read more

BTI fresh graduates get 400 jobs

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Under-secretary for Resources and Services at the Education Ministry Hesham bin Abdulaziz Al Khalifa has opened the Professions Week, 2012, organized by the Bahrain Training Institute (BTI), with the participation of 23 companies, institutions and agencies specialised in commerce, industry, [...] > read more

First Motors launches HPAP

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First Motors, the authorized dealers of Hyundai in Bahrain, announced the introduction of the Hyundai Premium Assurance Programme (HPAP) that assures customers of getting the best value for their purchase. The new programme offers Genesis and Centennial owners a range [...] > read more

‘Bravery in business pays off’

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Bizladies Bahrain Chapter met for their monthly event at Unisono Headquarters where Founding Partner and CEO Amy Morgan made a presentation on the topic of ‘Bravery in Business’. Over 30 senior business ladies attended the event, which is the second [...] > read more

BBK remains upbeat on expansion in Kuwait, India

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BBK is treading on the right path of business with regional expansion including setting up two new joint ventures in Kuwait and opening of two new offshore branches in India, according to a top official at the BBK. A. Karim [...] > read more

Emerging economies take center stage at AIM in Dubai

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With expected number of delegates reaching 4000 including 30 ministers and 45 official delegations, the huge opportunities in emerging markets are likely take centre stage during the 2nd Annual Investment Meeting 2012. The organizing committees of the Annual Investment Meeting [...] > read more

Bapco hosts farewell reception for JVROC

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Bapco hosted the Chevron Joint Venture Refining Operating Committee (JVROC) Meeting which was attended by executives of Chevron’s Joint Venture refineries led by Chevron President of Manufacturing, Gary Yesavage. Following completion of the two days of intensive meetings, Bapco hosted [...] > read more

DHL Express’ global CEO meets MENA Managers

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DHL Express Global CEO Ken Allen arrived in Bahrain and met with the Country Managers of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets to discuss the state of business in the region and opportunities for further growth. The meeting [...] > read more

Al-Khawaja not force-fed at the hospital

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The claims about the volunteer hunger striker Abdulhadi Al Khawaja that he was being force-fed in the hospital have been categorically denied by the authorities, according to a statement issued by the Information Affairs Authority (IAA). A spokesperson for Bahrain [...] > read more

Diyar Homes’sales kick off on May 5th

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Diyar Homes on Sunday announced the commencement of viewing the Diyar Homes mock-up villas will start on April 29th and sales will start on 5th May at 8am. Diyar Homes offers most of the design requirements for Bahraini family tastes [...] > read more

GIB reports net income of $31.8m in Q1

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Bahrain-headquartered Gulf International Bank (GIB) reported consolidated net income, after tax, of $31.8 million for the three months ended on 31st March 2012, 23% or $6 million up on the comparable prior year period. “We are pleased to report continued [...] > read more

BFX achieves trade turnover of $1b in value

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The Bahrain Financial Exchange (BFX), the first multi-asset exchange in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has achieved a major milestone with the cumulative (single-side) trading turnover value crossing the $1 billion mark on the 24th of April 2012. [...] > read more

EU Parliament member misrepresents facts about her visit

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Interior Ministry Assistant Undersecretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence announced that Ana Gomez, a member of the European Parliament, provided information that raised the suspicions of Bahrain airport officials upon her arrival in the country. “When the airport officials questioned [...] > read more

Batelco Group gets new Group CFO

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Batelco Group announced the appointment of Marco Regnier as Group Chief Financial 0fficer (CFO) with effect 1 May 2012. Regnier joins the Group from Tunis-based Tunisie Telecom, a subsidiary of Emirates International Telecommunications Ltd (EITL), where he was CFO for [...] > read more

ALBA takes all 319 sacked employees back

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Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) marked the celebrations of the International Labour Day with an announcement that – as of May 1, 2012 – almost 220 employees have returned to work and all 319 reinstated employees are now on the company’s [...] > read more

Saudi mobile penetration reaches 200%; still growing

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At nearly 200% mobile penetration, the Saudi mobile market should be close to maturity, but surprisingly it is still growing, despite possible slowing in H212, according to Fitch. The main growth engine is demand for mobile broadband services, which has [...] > read more

HRH Sheikh Mohammed opens Arabian Travel Market

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HRH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday officially inaugurated Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2012, in the presence of senior government officials, leaders of the regional and international travel industry [...] > read more

HM King opens the largest IPP in Bahrain

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in the presence of HRH the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, on Monday officially opened Bahrain’s largest Independent Power Plant (IPP) in the country Al-Dur Power and Water Plant. [...] > read more

Malaysian power giant MCB buys 40% stake in HPC

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Investment agreements involving a new strategic partner in Hidd Power Company (HPC) were signed earlier at the premises of the Ministry of Finance between the Government of Bahrain and the Malaysian independent power producer Malakoff Corporation Berhad (MCB). Through its [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Crown Prince visits Samsung HQs

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa the Crown Prince paid a visit to Samsung headquarters in Seoul, where he was received by the Vice President of the company Hyuk Sun-Kim and a number of senior officials. Sun-Kim [...] > read more

Prince Salman arrives in Seoul for talks

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, accompanied by His Royal Highness’s son His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, arrived in the Korean Capital, Seoul, in an official [...] > read more

Bahrain’s domestic credit grows 15.9 % at end of Q1

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Bahrain’s domestic credit market bounced back at end of first of the year with growth of 15.9 per cent comparable with the Q1 of the last year, according to the statistics released by the Central Bank of Bahrain on Monday. [...] > read more

Shard Tower London opens on July 5th

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Sheikh Abdullah Bin Saoud Al Thani, Governor of Qatar Central Bank and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Shard Funding Limited announced that the inauguration of Shard Tower in London will be on July 5th 2012. The tower [...] > read more

Dubai hotels’ revenues up 24% in Q1

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Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has released the Q1 2012 key performance indicators for the emirate’s rapidly expanding hotel industry, which showed a 9% increase in guest numbers, 24% increase in revenues, 22% jump in guest nights [...] > read more

Qatar Airways to launch Iraq, Mynamar flights

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Launch dates for flights into Myanmar and Iraq have been announced at Arabian Travel Market as part of Qatar Airways’ update on 2012 route schedules, with capacity hikes also being introduced to a number of other international destinations from the [...] > read more

Japan picks ATM New Frontiers Award

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Arabian Travel Market (ATM) announced that Japan had been honoured with the New Frontiers Award 2012. Last year’s recipient Chile attended the Arabian Travel Market 2012 to present the award to Daisuke Matsunaga, Consul-General, Japanese Embassy in Dubai alongside Mark [...] > read more

Etihad Airways confirms 2.987% stake in Aer Lingus

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Etihad Airways confirmed that it had acquired a 2.987 per cent stake in Aer Lingus. The airline said the purchase reflected its desire to forge a commercial partnership with the Irish national carrier. Etihad Airways believes a possible partnership could [...] > read more

HM King opens 20th Heritage Festival today

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His MajestyKing Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa patronizes the opening ceremony of the 20th Heritage Festival on Wednesday. The Culture Ministry is holding the 20th edition at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. The Royal patronage reflects HM the King’s [...] > read more

Bahrain and Korea keen on bolstering ties in vital areas

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander hailed strong relations bonding Bahrain and South Korea, pointing out in this regard projects and fruitful programmes in the industrial and technical sectors. He stressed the [...] > read more

Political dust must settle down in Bahrain: Bankers

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The political dust must settle down in Bahrain to keep the wheel of businesses moving without any interruption, leading bankers said. Leading bankers and regulators during the Meet the Press hosted by the Bankers Association of Bahrain (BAB) told the [...] > read more

Banks can’t do business in a vacuum: CEO SCB

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Banks cannot do business in isolation or a vacuum and this part of the world never been immune to the global economic upheaval started in 2008, according to a senior banker. CEO at the Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain, Hassan Jarrar [...] > read more

Risks continue to haunt the banks: CBB Advisor

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There is a need of stringent regulations covering the entire spectrum of risk management tools for the banking industry, according to a senior banker. Richard Ellis, a senior banker and now Advisor to the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) was [...] > read more

‘Bahrain is a land of love, peace & fraternity’

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BAHRAIN should be protected by its citizens and what is happening isn’t correct, Her Highness Shaikha Lulwa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, said. Shaikha Lulwa, daughter of the HRH the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, condemned the terror [...] > read more

LG to implement electronic licensing project in Bahrain

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On the sidelines of the Crown Prince, HRH Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa’s visit to Korea leading a large trade delegation, Bahrain e-Government Authority signed a contract with the Korean electronics giant LG to implement a project to develop [...] > read more

Bahrain calls for GCC Union

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Bahrain on Wednesday stressed the importance of embarking on phase the GCC Union. Interior Minister Lieutenant-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa described the move as inevitable amid mounting regional and international challenges. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency, Lt-General [...] > read more

HM King lauds Bahrain as a tolerant society

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa received at Al-Safriya Palace priests representing 16 churches in Bahrain, who came to express thanks and gratitude to HM for the freedom and security enjoyed by churches in Bahrain. HM King praised the [...] > read more

Shaikh Nasser opens 20th Heritage Festival

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa deputized Supreme Council for Youth and sport Chairman and Bahrain Olympic Committee President Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa to open the 20 Heritage Festival. The expo is being organized by the Ministry of [...] > read more

GCC-India trade reaches $88.8b in 2010

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Bilateral merchandise trade between India and the GCC has grown substantially over the last decade with CAGR of 35.9% over 2001–10 to $88.8 billion, according to Alpen Capital. Trade intensity between the regions has also risen led by numerous bilateral [...] > read more

BMI Bank assets up 20% to $1.8b in Q1

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Bahraini retail and commercial banking institution, BMI Bank, on Wednesday said that its total assets stood at $1.8 billion at end of March 2012, a 20% up over the $1.5 billion recorded at the end of March last year. “The [...] > read more

Bapco launches smart fuel cards

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The Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) introduced new smart fuel card called Sadeem, a card that can be used for purchasing fuel at Bapco fuel selling points across the Kingdom. “Sadeem, meaning galaxy or a cloud of energy, is a payment [...] > read more

Diyar Homes’ mock-up villas become instant hit

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Diyar Homes has witnessed a tremendous number of visitors who came to view the mock-up villas and to receive more details about the homes and the different available designs. Potential buyers came to visit Diyar Homes after its announcement of [...] > read more

ME airlines’ demand up 20.9% in March: IATA

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Middle East airlines’ demand jumped 20.9% on a 12.4% rise in capacity, propelling load factors to 78.7%, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global traffic results for March. “This was the largest rate of growth for any [...] > read more

Shaikh Fawaz opens Bahrain Press Club

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In line with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s directives, President of the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa inaugurated the Bahrain Press Club. On the occasion, Shaikh Fawaz said that the club, whose [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King endorses constitutional amendments

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Thursday endorsed the constitutional amendments put forward by the National Dialogue participants, paving the way for the Kingdom to enter into a new era on reconciliation and development. Hi Majesty patronised [...] > read more

CBB requires SMS notification from the banks

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The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) on Thursday issued directive requiring from the banks to notify the customers through short messaging service (SMS) about each financial transaction at the ATMs or point of sales. The CBB said the new directives [...] > read more

Al Rumaihi takes up new senior role at BCC

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Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi has been promoted as the new Senior Manager at the Bahrain City Centre, the leading shopping and lifestyle destination in the Kingdom. “A Bahraini national, Duaij is a significant contributor to the local community; with over [...] > read more

Freedom of Press costs 62 lives in 2011

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With freedom of expression is seen as one of most precious rights of humans, the saviours of this basic right were hit hard as 62 journalists were killed in 2011 while performing their professional obligations. The world is celebrating the [...] > read more

Region’s hospitality sector bounces back

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The region’s hospitality sector is back on the track of progress and development which can be gauged through of the Arabian Travel Market 2012. Visitor numbers up 7-10% on 2011 figures with new impetus driven by regional industry performance and [...] > read more

ABIB launches SMS Banking

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In line with its continuous effort to enhance banking services to customers, Al Baraka Islamic Bank announced the launch of the new SMS Banking Service aimed at improving customer satisfaction through saving time and effort using the latest modern technologies. [...] > read more

ABG’s four subsidiaries win awards

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Four subsidiaries of the Bahrain based leading Islamic banking group Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG) received the “Best Islamic Bank” Award of 2012, as part of the annual awards that the Global Finance Magazine, which is specialized in banking and [...] > read more

‘Fill your car tank with one swipe’

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Now motor riders in Bahrain can fill their car tanks by swiping the smart fuel card, thanks to Bapco which announced the launch of the new card called Sadeem. The innovative smart fuel card was launched at a ceremony held [...] > read more

A BD20m new Muharraq Shopping Mall on the way

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A brand new BD20 million new Community Shopping Mall will open its door for businesses in 18-months time, it was announced on Thursday. Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman of Seef Properties, 50% and single largest stakeholder in the [...] > read more

Bahrain lauds role of GCC Ministers of Labours’ Council

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Labour Minister Jamil bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan hailed the pivotal role played by the Executive Bureau of the GCC Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs Council in carrying out projects and programmes aimed at boosting relations and cooperation among the [...] > read more

Constitutional amendments will bring political stability

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During a workshop organized by Bahrain Institute for Political Development (BIPD),  on the impact of constitutional amendments on the political system, as the first session which aims to promote the culture of democracy, Chairwoman of Legislative and Legal Affairs’ Committee [...] > read more

BCCI hails constitutional amendments

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Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) hailed HM the King’s ratification of the constitutional amendments project which has been approved by the legislative power. BCCI Chairman Dr. Essam Abdullah Fakhro considered the royal endorsement of the amendments, as it [...] > read more

Bahrain Journalists’ Association elects new board today

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The Bahrain Journalists Association will tomorrow hold its annual meeting at nine o’clock at Beit Al-Tejjar to elect its new board and discuss latest developments. Ten candidates are in the fray to secure a seat in the new-look. Osama Al-Majid [...] > read more

Finance Minister to attend GCC Meet

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Finance Minister Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa will leave for Saudi Arabia on Saturday leading Bahrain’s delegation to the 93rd meeting of the GCC Financial and Economic Committee, to be held at the headquarters of the GCC Secretariat-General. The [...] > read more

Shaikh Khalid receives Japanese Deputy Defence Minister

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Rapid Intervention Force Acting Commander Lieutenant Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa received in his office at the Royal Guard Japanese Deputy Defence Minister Mitsu Shimojo and his accompanying delegation. Lt. Shaikh Khalid welcomed the Japanese Deputy Defence Minister’s visit [...] > read more

Regulations serve as vital pillar for petrochemical industry

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Achieving operational excellence throughout the supply chain industry with emphasis on best practice in environment, health, safety and security will be the central theme of the fourth Gulf Petrochemical and Chemical Association (GPCA) Supply Chain Conference in Dubai on May [...] > read more

Dr Mirza opens Oil and Gas Show on Monday

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Minister Energy and Chairman NOGA, Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza to Open the Middle East’s longest running annual oil conference on May 7, 2012 Presidents of international oil companies, senior government officials and heads of national oil companies in [...] > read more

‘The Bizz 2012’ takes place in Doha

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One of the world’s most important business awards, THE BIZZ 2012, will be handed out on September 16 in a gala ceremony at the Sharq Village Hotel & Spa in the city of Doha, Qatar. This ceremony is the latest [...] > read more

Authorities start tearing down dangerous structures

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Manama Municipality starts to demolish the abandoned and ramshackle buildings in Manama, in implementation of the Monitoring Committee for Abandoned and Ramshackle buildings’ decisions, in coordination with the Gulf Company and with cooperation with the concerned government institutions. > read more

Culture Ministry and St. Petersburg Museum ink agreement

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An agreement was signed on Saturday between the Culture Ministry in Bahrain and the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg in Russia, in line with the Kingdom’s keen interest to enhance cultural exchange with other countries. > read more

GCC continues to co-operate in telecom sector

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The delegations participating in the GCC Technical Telecommunications’ meeting stressed the need to continue holding coordinating meetings between the member states to discuss the mutual interactions between them on the cell-phone networks. > read more

VIVA Bahrain wins ‘growth story of the year’ award

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Leading telecom operator, VIVA Bahrain was awarded the prestigious “Growth Story of the Year” at the TMT Finance Middle East 2012 Awards in Dubai for its outstanding achievements during 2011. > read more

BJA AGM adjourns for want of quorum

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The annual general assembly of the Bahrain Journalists’ Association (BJA) have been adjourned on Saturday, till May 19th, for want of quorum, the BJA in a statement said. The BJA in a statement confirmed that during its Ordinary General Assembly, [...] > read more

IFEX is welcome to visit Bahrain

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The Ministry of Human Rights and Social Development in a statement assured that it had entertained the requests of more than 10 international NGOs to visit Bahrain and would continue to do so in future as well. > read more

Terrorists target four police officials with bomb

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In an unabated spate of violence against the security officials by the saboteurs, four police officers have been targeted by bomb leaving one of them seriously injured, the police chief announced. > read more

RUW conducts lecture on traditional dress

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Royal University for Women hosted two important events organized by the Ministry of Culture. The first event was a guest lecture on the ‘History of Traditional Dress on and the second event was a ‘Workshop on Traditional Dress Designing Skills’ [...] > read more

Unisono launches TV & Radio Department

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Unisono announced the launch of its TV and Radio Division. The division is to be headed by Julia Klein who has over 25 years of experience in the film and television industry. > read more

Ithmaar supports AAOIFI conference 2012

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In line with its long standing commitment to playing a real and meaningful role in supporting the development of Bahrain’s banking and finance industry, Ithmaar Bank once again extended its support for a major Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic [...] > read more

ALBA sales reach $496m in Q1

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Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA) on Sunday said that its first quarter sales reach $496 million with net profit $57 million. Alba said its results were impacted by lower LME levels and higher gas costs, however, it maintained sound cash flow of [...] > read more

Decent earning, home are goals for youngsters

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Earning a fair wage and owning a home are now the two highest priorities for young people in the Middle East – displacing “living in a democracy” as the greatest aspiration of regional youth, according to the findings of the [...] > read more

Over 36% males are overweight in Bahrain

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VLCC honoured three Bahrain-based “Good Health Ambassadors” who have undergone the scientific and healthy VLCC weight loss programme to fight obesity and transform their lives. > read more

Porsche revenues up 32.4% in Q1

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Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has got the new financial year off to a flying start. The company managed to increase sales, revenue and operating profit significantly in the first quarter of 2012. > read more

Cabinet slams nefarious media campaigns against Bahrain

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa described Bahrain’s growth, prosperity, security and stability as a prime concern, stressing resolve to stand firm against threats to national security. > read more

Sky News Arabia goes live in Abu Dhabi

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Sky News Arabia, the multi-platform 24-hour Arabic rolling news channel, broadcast for the first time to over 50 million homes across the Middle East and North Africa, went live at 7pm Bahrain’s local time on Sunday. A joint venture between [...] > read more

Rajab faces charges including inciting violence, defamation

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Senior District Attorney Abdulrahman Al-Sayyed announced  that Nabeel Ahmed Abdul Rasul Rajab had appeared before the Lower Criminal Court to face charges of inciting illegal rallies and marches online by using social networking websites. The activist was arrested at the [...] > read more

Batelco and Gulf Air ink agreement

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Bahrain’s leading integrated communications services provider and Gulf Air, the Kingdom’s National airline, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will deliver great benefits to customers of both Bahraini companies. The historic signing agreement between two of Bahrain’s leading [...] > read more

Bahrain-US ties will be major highlight during America Week

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The deep-rooted fraternal ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain will be a major highlight during the first America Week to be held in Bahrain, according to the US envoy. > read more

UAB to organise a workshop on Basel III

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The Union of Arab Banks (UAB) will organize a specialized banking workshop, conducted in English, titled practical Implementation of Liquidity Risk Management and the Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) According to Basel III Requirements” at the Bahrain Institute for [...] > read more

Bahrain-Turkey trade increases 150% to $250m

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The First Deputy Chairman of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ibrahim Mohammed Ali Zainal met at Bait Al Tojar with the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Turkish Al-Madar co., Al-Madar Abdullah, and the Turkish businessman, Turan [...] > read more

Upper House condemns terrorist attack on security officials

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Shura Council during a meeting headed by The Shura Council’s Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al-Saleh condemned the terrorist acts that threatened the lives of a number of security personnel in the village of Bani Jamra during carrying out their national [...] > read more

HM King visits BDF General Command

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa paid a visit to Bahrain Defense Force’s General Command. HM the King was received upon arrival by the BDF’s Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Minister of State [...] > read more

Etihad appoints new GM Oman

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Etihad Airways has appointed Mahfood Al Harthy as its new General Manager for Oman. Mahfood joins Etihad Airways from Gulf Air where he held a number of senior sales positions in Bahrain, Indonesia, the South Pacific, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, [...] > read more

Al Baraka Banking Group sponsors AAOIFI Conference

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Bahrain-based leading Islamic banking group Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG), announced that, as part of its leading role in supporting the development of the Islamic financial industry and in continuation of its past participations, it sponsored as a platinum partner, [...] > read more

KFH-B gold sponsor of the AAOIFI Conference

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Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain (KFH-B) announced its Gold sponsorship of the Annual Shari’a Conference, which is currently taking place on 7th and 8th of May 2012 at the Diplomat Hotel. > read more

F1 for Oil and & Gas industry in the Middle East kicks off

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Dubbed as the F1 for the oil and gas industry in the Middle East, the 20th Middle East Petroleum and Gas Conference 2012 (MEPGC) kicked off in Manama on Monday at the Ritz Carlton Hotel and Spa. > read more

Saudi-Bahrain MoU a major step towards GCC Union

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Rotana Group’s agreement with Bahrain is a major step towards GCC Union which shows growing co-operation among the states including the transfer of expertise, investments and knowledge, an official told the 24X7 News. > read more

S&P affirms Saudi Arabia at AA-/A-1+; outlook stable

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Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services has affirmed its long- and short-term foreign and local currency sovereign credit ratings on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at ‘AA-/A-1+’. The outlook is stable. > read more

Fitch affirms Commercial Bank of Qatar at A

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed Commercial Bank of Qatar’s (CBQ) long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘A’ and short-term IDR at ‘F1′. The outlook on the long-term IDR is stable. > read more

Fitch affirms QIIB at A-; outlook stable

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed Qatar International Islamic Bank’s (QIIB) long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘A-’ with a stable outlook. QIIB’s IDRs are support-driven and reflect Fitch’s opinion of an extremely high probability of support from the Qatari authorities if [...] > read more

KHCB supports AAOIFI 11th Annual Conference

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Bahrain-based Khaleeji Commercial Bank (KHCB) has supported the AAOIFI’s 11th Annual Conference which concluded on Tuesday. Under the patronage of Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman and Board of Trustees of AAOIFI, the conference was held at the Diplomat [...] > read more

Bahrain continues to attract investments: Dr. Fakhro

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The Kingdom of Bahrain continues to attract the investments, thanks to the attractive investment climate in the country, according to the Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro. > read more

Bahrain Cheque Truncation System goes live on 13th

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The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and the BENEFIT Company (BENEFIT) announced that the new Bahrain Cheque Truncation System (BCTS) will commence operations on 13th May, 2012. BCTS will replace the current paper based cheque clearing system in the Kingdom [...] > read more

Bahrain has plenty of talent for soccer: Lee Sharpe

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Lee Sharpe, Manchester United Legend on Tuesday underlined the importance coaching, learning techniques and continuation of training for young soccer players in Bahrain. Manchester United legend highlighted the potential and talent among youngsters and lauded the initiative of VIVA which [...] > read more

Zain revenues reach $1.2b in Q1

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Zain Group in a statement said its revenues reached $1.2 billion and net income $255 million at end of the first quarter of the year, the company in a statement said. > read more

Batelco brings ‘Avaya office-in-a-box solution’

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Batelco introduced the Avaya Office-In-a-Box Solution for the first time in Bahrain which had been successfully showcased at the Bahrain International e-Government Forum. > read more

KFH-B launches Direct Debit

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Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain (KFH-B) announced its participation in the Direct Debit service of The BENEFIT Company. This automated mechanism allows for settlement of utility, telephone bills and any other payments that are made on a regular basis by KFH-B customers. [...] > read more

Healthy outlook for GCC oil-exporting economies

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Economic prospects for oil-exporting economies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) look healthier over the next few years than in the initial phase of the global financial crisis in 2008-2009, according to a report published by Standard & Poor’s titled [...] > read more

ME Oil & Gas sector faces shortage of talent

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In a Deloitte report entitled the Talent Edge 2020: Redrafting talent strategies for the uneven recovery, experts focused on the oil and gas sector, to gauge the talent trends in the growing industry. Of the key findings, the majority of [...] > read more

IPO activity shows signs of recovery in the GCC

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Initial Public Offering (IPO) activity began to show early signs of recovery towards the end of Q1 2012 in the six nation Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) stock markets. Investor confidence began to return to markets with share price levels generally [...] > read more

StanChart holds workshop on working capital management

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In line with its continuous efforts to deepen its client relationships and understanding, Standard Chartered held a client event to discuss trends, solutions and challenges in working capital and its effective management, leveraging technology. The event was held in Bahrain [...] > read more

Prince Heinrich of Liechtenstein to address BFBA

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Bahrain Family Business Association under the Chairmanship of Khalid Kanoo is organizing a seminar on Sunday, 13th May 2012 at 8.00 pm at The K Hotel, Juffair. Prince Heinrich von und zu Liechtenstein will be the Chief Guest and keynote [...] > read more

No country tolerates sabotage and terrorism

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Bahrain on Wednesday vowed to stave off subversive attempts aimed at undermining its security and stability. “No country in the world can tolerate sabotage and terror seeking to destabilize the country and terrorize people”, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa [...] > read more

Bahrain plans $8b refinery expansion: Minister

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The Kingdom of Bahrain which was the first nation in the GCC to drill the oil in 1932 has achieved many strides in the development of the oil and gas sector in the past eight decades and now plans $8billion [...] > read more

SICO swings back into the black in Q1

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Bahrain-based Securities & Investment Company (SICO) reported a net profit of BD1.351 million for the first quarter of 2012 compared to a loss of BD 627,000 for the same period of the previous year.  > read more

GFH hosts investors to MEDZ project in India

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Senior management and key investors of Gulf Finance House BSC (GFH), the Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank, led by Acting Chief Executive Officer Hisham Alrayes, visited the Mumbai Economic Development Zone (MEDZ) project site in India.  > read more

Sudanese President hails Bahrain reforms

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The Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir met with a delegation of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives chaired by the Second Deputy Chairman, Adel Al Ma’awda, where he expressed the support of the Sudanese government and its people of all the procedures [...] > read more

Bahrain-Turkey seeks co-operation in security

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Interior Minister Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa held a discussion session with his Turkish counterpart Idris Naim Shahin. The Turkish minister hailed Lt. General Shaikh Rashid’s visit to Turkey and its significance in bolstering bilateral cooperation, describing [...] > read more

Saudi envoys lauds the leadership of King Abdulla

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Saudi Ambassador to Bahrain Dr. Abdul Mohsen bin Fahd Al-Mark praised to the Custodian of the Two Holey Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and the Saudi Royal family and extended his congratulations and blessings on [...] > read more

Apex appeal court reviews SMC doctors’ case

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The Supreme Appeal court reviewed the case of the suspects related to the taking over of Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) during which the defense presented its appeal. Meanwhile, the public prosecution had previously presented its case against those charged providing [...] > read more

Bahrain reaffirms backing Palestine membership at UN

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The Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirmed the vitality of the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) solidarity and unity in forging a peaceful and secure world, rejected resort to force in dispute settlement and destabilization of regional security and stability. The Kingdom called to [...] > read more

Pakistan-Bahrain enjoys historical ties: Minister

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ghanim bin Fadhul Al-Buainain received member of the Senate of Pakistan Professor Sajid Mir. The Minister of State welcomed the Pakistani Senate’s member and commended the historical relations between the two friendly countries, pointed [...] > read more

HM King bestows US Admiral Fox with highest medal

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received at Al-Safriya Palace outgoing US Naval Forces Central Command and Fifth Fleet Commander Admiral Mark I Fox. HM the King lauded his distinguished efforts in boosting historic bilateral relations mainly in [...] > read more

Bahrain remains committed to welfare of its citizen

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During his meeting with a number of US Congressmen, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa the Crown Prince confirmed Bahrain’s seriousness in continuing the path of reform, to achieve citizen’s aspirations. HRH said that the latest steps [...] > read more

IFIs seek boards to get tough on risk management

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Overwhelming majority of 63% of Islamic Financial Institutions (IFIs) believe that strong commitment from boards, sharia’a supervisory boards and management is required to improve risk management in Islamic Finance, according to the findings of a survey. Deloitte Islamic Finance Knowledge [...] > read more

ABC Islamic Bank reports $1.6m net profit in Q1

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ABC Islamic Bank announced a net profit of $1.6 million for the first quarter of 2012. A higher net profit of $3 million for the first quarter of last year was mainly due to a one-off revenue item of $1.3 [...] > read more

Feltman attends Ambassador Nunu’s reception

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The Bahraini Ambassador in Washington Huda Nonoo organized a reception at the embassy’s building in honor of members of the Bahraini-American Business Council on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Council. Ambassador Nonoo, in her [...] > read more

Shaikha Mai delivers a lecture in Jordan

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On the sidelines of her visit to Jordan, the Minister of Culture Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa delivered, at the Royal Cultural Centre in Amman a lecture, in which she talked about the allure of Manama as the Capital [...] > read more

Batelco announces upgrade

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Batelco, Bahrain’s leading telecommunications provider is in the process of enhancing both upload and download speeds for Mobile Broadband as part of the Company’s ongoing strategy to enhance its networks and keep them on par with the highest international standards. [...] > read more

BMI Bank sponsors IMF/World Bank Tokyo meet

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BMI Bank announced the renewal of its key sponsorship of the ‘Banks in Bahrain’ reception at the 2012 joint International Monetary Fund/World Bank Conference to be held in Tokyo on the 13th of October 2012. The event, hosted by the [...] > read more

CBB hosts the University of Wales students’ delegation

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The Central Bank of Bahrain hosted a group of 27 students studying the Banking law and Practice module of Year II of the University of Wales Validated Diploma Programme at the BIBF. These Year II students will be traveling to [...] > read more

Dubai to host world’s largest Airport Show

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Organised by Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the 12th edition of Airport Show will be held from the 22nd to the 24th of May, 2012 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh [...] > read more

German Parliamentary delegation due to arrive Bahrain

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Chairman of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security at the Shura Council Dr. Shaikh Khalid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has welcomed the forthcoming visit of a German parliamentary delegation to the kingdom, lauding the outstanding Bahraini-German relations and the [...] > read more

Democracy is ongoing process in Bahrain: Prince Salman

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His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, said democracy is an ongoing process that requires time, hard work and a realistic vision. “We, in Bahrain, are working diligently to achieve that while [...] > read more

Thai Premier starts historic visit of Bahrain

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The Thai Premier Yingluck Shinawatra arrives in Manama on Sunday on an official visit to the Kingdom on the invitation of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. This will be first visit of Thai Premier [...] > read more

Bahrain-US remains strategic allies: Congressman

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A veteran US congressman highlighted the importance of the strong strategic alliance between the US and the Kingdom of Bahrain. “There is no doubt that both countries are strong allies”, U.S. Representative (R) for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District Dan Burton [...] > read more

GCC Union tops the agenda during meet

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The GCC leaders will hold their 14th consultative meeting in Riyadh next Monday under the chairmanship of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the President of the current session of the GCC Supreme Council. [...] > read more

Bahrain finalises audit of public accounts for 2011

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Bahrain’s Auditor-General, who heads the National Audit Court, Hassan Khalifa Al-Jalahma, announced the completion of the audit of the accounts of the ministries and other government entities for the year ended 31st December 2011. The “Consolidated Final Account of the [...] > read more

Bahraini authorities keep an eye on prices, supply chain

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro on Saturday reaffirmed the Ministry’s keenness on following up all developments of local market and the prices trends, especially food and consumers commodities that, pointing out the positive role played by traders and [...] > read more

Around 98% businesses use fixed broadband services

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With all medium and large businesses in Bahrain having access to the internet, 98% of those businesses use a fixed line broadband service, according to Bahrain’s Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA), survey. Of those businesses accessing the internet, 53% have a [...] > read more

IAA Chief receives media code of ethics

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In line with the Kingdom’s efforts to promote the media to next stage, Information Affairs Authority (IAA) President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa received a draft Audio-Visual Media Code of Ethics as well as code of media honour. He met [...] > read more

Bahrain-US continues security co-operation

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His Royal Highness Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa highlighted the strong ties existing between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States indicating the importance of the continuation of joint military cooperation between the [...] > read more

Preserving stability, national interests is collective duty

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His Royal Highness Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa described preserving stability and national interest as a joint responsibility by everyone and that achieving all that one aspires for the Kingdom of Bahrain would only [...] > read more

Bahrain-US military alliance serves regional interests

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His Royal Highness Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa said that the military alliance and cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States had results that were translated on a wide scope and [...] > read more

ILC 2012 opens on Tuesday by Energy Minister

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The annual International Leadership Conference (ILC 2012) will open on Tuesday (May 15) in Bahrain. Bahrain Management Society (BMS) is organizing the event in cooperation with the National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) under the theme “Enforcing Regional Competitiveness through [...] > read more

US give green light on arms sales to Bahrain

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The US Administration has informed the Congress that for national security interests and decided to release additional items and services for the Bahrain Defense Force, the Coast Guard, and the National Guard for the purpose of helping Bahrain maintain its [...] > read more

Over 3000 delegates to attend ME Petrotech 2012

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Over 3,000 downstream oil and gas professionals are set to converge in Bahrain from 20 – 23 May for the 8th edition of the Middle East Refining and Petrochemicals Conference and Exhibition (Middle East Petrotech 2012). Set against a backdrop [...] > read more

HRH Prince Khalifa welcomes his Thai counterpart

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman was today at the forefront of those who welcomed his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra upon arrival at the Bahrain International Airport on an official visit to the kingdom at his invitation [...] > read more

Cabinet endorses 50% cut on levy for SMEs

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The Cabinet meeting chaired by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa at Gudaibiya Palace decided to give 50% cut on LMRA monthly levy from BD10 to BD5 per month. The cabinet decided to cut down [...] > read more

Bahrain to enhance economic ties with Thailand

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, who received at Al-Rawdha Palace Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, underscored the importance of exchanging business visits to bolster cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations, stressing the need for the private sector to benefit [...] > read more

Bahrain fully supports GCC transformation into Union

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Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa affirmed that the consultation meeting between their Majesties and Highnesses, leaders of the GCC, enhances the Council’s march and achieve the hopes and aspirations of the GCC people towards [...] > read more

Prince Salman’s son graduated from American Univ

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His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa congratulated his son Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on the occasion of his graduation from the American University in Washington. HRH Prince [...] > read more

Ithmaar Bank in the red at end of Q1

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Ithmaar Bank, a Bahrain-based Islamic retail bank, reported a net loss of $0.5 million, compared to a net profit of $4.8million in the same period last year, despite a net operating profit of $4.4million, before impairment provisions and taxation, compared [...] > read more

Australian mission eyes $137.4m more exports

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The largest ever Australian trade mission to the Middle East, led by the Victorian Coalition Government, is now expected to lead to an annual increase in exports of at least $137.4 million, according to the participating Victorian companies. Victorian Minister [...] > read more

CMH pays dividends to aircraft leasing Co investors

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Capital Management House (CMH), Bahrain based Islamic investment bank, has distributed the regular quarterly dividend, calculated at 10% per annum, to GCC investors of the bank’s Aircraft Leasing Investment Company for the first quarter of the year ended 31 March [...] > read more

Nass Corporation reports BD2m profit in Q1

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Bahrain-based regional construction giant, Nass Corporation, reported a net profit of BD1.938 million for the first quarter of 2012, a slightly higher than BD1.827 million for the same period last year. Announcing the results Nass Corporation BSC, Chairman, Abdulla Ahmed [...] > read more

Transition of GCC from Council to Union on the cards

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The Kingdom of Bahrain welcomed at conclusion of the Gulf Cooperation Council meeting held in Riyadh the agreement by the GCC leaders to the proposal of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for the Ministerial Council to continue studying [...] > read more

Bahrain-Thailand trade up 87% to $435m in 2010

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Within the frame work of the visit of Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to the Kingdom of Bahrain, which comes in response to the gracious initiation of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister, Industry and [...] > read more

Thai Premier briefs community on her Bahrain visit

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Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra met with Thai community living in Bahrain during a reception held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel and Spa. She stressed the significance of her visit to Bahrain in further strengthening outstanding bilateral relations, expressing full [...] > read more

Thai PM Yingluck Shinawatra visits Al-Fateh Islamic Centre

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Within the framework of her official visit to Bahrain, Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra paid a visit to Ahmed Al-Fateh Islamic Centre where she was received by Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa. [...] > read more

Bahrain-Thai inks MoUs on culture, food & tourism

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His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister met in Gudaibiya Palace in the presence of Prime Minister of the friendly Kingdom of Thailand Her Excellency Mrs. Yingluck Shinawatra with the Thai businessmen’s delegation accompanying Her [...] > read more

SULB secures $373m loan facility

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Bahrain-based SULB, the region’s first fully integrated steel sections and beams producer, marked the official signing of a $373million loan agreement between the company and BNP Paribas and Société Générale (SGCIB). Funding will support the implementation of the project, which [...] > read more

BNH Group reports $2.17m profits for Q1

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Bahrain National Holding Company (BNH – the parent company of bni and bnl) has announced a net profit of $2.17 million for the first quarter ended 31 March 2012; against $2.81 million for the same period last year. The Company [...] > read more

GFH reports $1m profit for Q1

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Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House (GFH) has announced its financial results for the first quarter ending 31st March, 2012, recording a net profit of $1million with total income for the period recorded at $12.9 million resulting primarily from management fees and [...] > read more

Bahrain is home for modern Islamic banking & finance

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The Kingdom of Bahrain has emerged as the home of modern Islamic banking and finance. The Central Bank will continue to work tirelessly on the issue of human resources development for IFIs and standardisation of sharia’h products, according to a [...] > read more

Standard Chartered takes lead in training Bahrainis

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In line with Standard Chartered Bank’s commitment to cultivate local talent in Bahrain, the Bank launched the Al Massar Development Programme, the bank in a statement said. Al Massar, a leadership development initiative contributing to an ongoing local talents training [...] > read more

Dr Mirza opens World Leadership Conference 2012

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Minister of Energy, Dr. Abdul Hussain Bin Ali Mirza inaugurated World Leadership Conference 2012 under the theme “Strengthening regional competitiveness through leadership, critical thinking and innovation,” which is organized by Bahrain Management Society in cooperation with the National Oil and [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Lower House denounces Iranian interference

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Bahrain’s Lower House of the Parlaiment, the Representatives Council, on Tuesday strongly denounced the statements made by the Speaker and members of the Iranian Shura Council, describing them as “blatant” interference in Bahrain’s internal affairs and those of the countries [...] > read more

Thai Premier visits Salman Industrial City

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Thai Premier Yingluck Shinawatra, currently on an official visit to the Kingdom at the invitation of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa visited Salman Industrial City in Hidd to be informed on its economic projects. [...] > read more

Bahrain-Thailand seeks more cooperation in all spheres

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa saw off his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra who left the Kingdom following an official visit at his invitation in which she held talks on ways of bolstering bilateral ties [...] > read more

GCC Union in months: Nabeel Al Hamer

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An extraordinary GCC summit will be held in Riyadh within months to sign the union pact. His Majesty’s advisor for media affairs Nabeel Al-Hamer said that the landmark event would convene before the forthcoming Manama GCC Summit. “The GCC Union [...] > read more

Bahrain condemns Iranian provocative statements

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Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the statement of the Chairman of the Islamic Consultative Assembly of Iran, Ali Larijani and MP Husain Ali Shahryari in respect of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Such statements represent a flagrant interference in [...] > read more

Middle East perfumery segment on the rebound

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The Middle East, which had been hit hard by the Arab Spring and global economic crisis over the past couple of years, is seen as a right place for more investments and expansion for perfumery business, according to an expert. [...] > read more

Batelco participates in ITW in Chicago

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Batelco, Bahrain’s leading integrated communications provider is being represented by three members of their management team at the International Telecoms Week (ITW) being held in Chicago, USA till 16th May. Batelco General Manager Enterprise Division Adel Daylami, Senior Sales Manager [...] > read more

DHL Barbarians take on Bahrain RFC on Memorial Day weekend

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The DHL Barbarians, the world’s leading logistics company’s rugby team, will once again play against the Bahrain RFC at the Bahrain Rugby Club on the 18th of May. Team members will fly in from across the GCC to take part [...] > read more

First Flight Couriers Ltd open operations in Bahrain

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In the backdrop of growth projections of 6% in logistics and transport services sector, the Kingdom of Bahrain is expected to achieve 1.5 million tonne capacity a year, according to an official at the Economic Development Board (EDB). “Bahrain’s logistics [...] > read more

Over 200 expats on ECL for loan default in Bahrain

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Over 200 expatriates have been placed on the exit control list (ECL) since January this year, according to a top official at GDNPR. Ministry of Interior’s Undersecretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa confirmed [...] > read more

Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination in focus at RUW workshop

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Royal University for Women in Bahrain in co-operation of its partner West Virginia University will conduct a three-day workshop on forensic accounting and fraud examination from May 22-24. Dr. Scott Fleming, assistant professor of accounting, WVU College of Business and [...] > read more

BBBF and StanChart sign partnership for SIGS

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The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) and Standard Chartered Bank announced their three year partnership in promoting the BBBF’s Special Interest Groups, which focus on the fields of Legal, Organisational Effectiveness, Construction and Financial Services, Security and ICT. Standard Chartered’s [...] > read more

VCB reports net profit of $8m in Q1

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Bahrain-based regional Islamic investment bank, Venture Capital Bank (VCBank), reported total income of $11.1 million and net profit of $8 million for the quarter ended 31 March 2012 compared with a loss of $2.9 million for the corresponding period in [...] > read more

Bahrain to host 1st GCC future entrepreneurship forum

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Mumtalakat Holdings Company (BSC) confirmed its strategic sponsorship of the 1st All-GCC Future Entrepreneurship Forum, set to be hosted in the Kingdom of Bahrain, organized by the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) on 30-31 May 2012. Under the patronage of HRH [...] > read more

Arab Parliamentary Union condemns Iranian interference

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The Arab Parliamentary Union strongly condemned the Iranian interference in Bahrain’s internal affairs. In a statement issued today, it slammed the Iranian interference as being “flagrant, unacceptable, hostile and contravening the international law and norms. Parliament Chairman Khalifa bin Ahmed [...] > read more

BJA elects new board members on Saturday

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The Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) board elections will be held on Saturday at 10 am at Al-Oruba Club in Juffair. Ten candidates are still in the fray vying in the BJA board elections –Osama Al-Majid (Al-Bilad), Farid Ahmed (Al-Watan), Zainab [...] > read more

GDNPR seeks ease in residency and visa procedures

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The General Directorate for Nationality, Passports and Residence (GDNPR) constantly seeks to ease procedures regarding the issuance of work permits and visit visas to foreigner nationals in cooperation and coordination with the relevant authorities in the Kingdom, according to a [...] > read more

Shaikh Fawaz opens 12th Gulf Radio and TV Festival

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President of the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa stressed that the host of the 12th Gulf Radio and TV Corporation Festival by the Kingdom of Bahrain coincides with the selection of Manama the 2012 capital [...] > read more

Public Prosecution denies allegations for mistreating inmate

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The Public Prosecution denied any mistreatment of detainees being held in custody at the Dry Dock prison. It issued a statement denying allegations posted on Al-Wefaq website and other political associations. “A Public Prosecution team visited the prison and inspected [...] > read more

GCC bloc ripe for economic integration: Study

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An analytical economic study prepared by the expert in economy and Gulf University Professor Dr. Mohammed Al-Sheikh confirmed that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has become significantly qualified to achieve further comprehensive economic integration under the umbrella of the Gulf [...] > read more

Bahrain’s oil production to increase 100%: Minister

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Oil production is set to increase from 50,000 to 100,000 barrels per day over the next five years, according to Energy Minister Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza. Dr Mirza, who was chief guest at a business luncheon hosted by [...] > read more

Bahrain-German diplomatic ties turn forty

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Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa sent a letter to his German counterpart Guido Westerwelle marking the 40th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Bahrain and Germany. He praised the two countries’ tremendous achievements over the [...] > read more

Islamic finance industry stabilises global financial system

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The intrinsic strengths of Islamic financial services industry, if fully explored, could help build a robust, resilient and just financial system that not only supports growth and economic activity but also ascertains a more inclusive financial system. This was among [...] > read more

Surge in broadband use drives upgrade of Saudi telecom sector

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Telecom operators in the Saudi Arabia are busy readying their networks for ‘Triple Play’ to provide Voice, Data and Video, without compromising on quality in order to meet new customer demands and competition. Most of the renowned ones have already [...] > read more

Fitch withdraws BLOM Bank’s support rating

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed and simultaneously withdrawn BLOM Bank’s support rating at ’5′. The affirmation reflects Fitch’s assessment of the likelihood of the bank receiving support from the Lebanese state, should this become necessary. While Fitch believes that the Lebanese [...] > read more

Fitch affirms Bank Audi S.A.L. at ‘B’; outlook stable

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed Bank Audi S.A.L’s (Audi) long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘B’ with a stable outlook and its viability rating (VR) at ‘b’. Audi’s long-term IDR is driven by its intrinsic strength, expressed by its VR. Audi’s [...] > read more

Fitch affirms Byblos Bank at ‘B’; outlook stable

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Fitch Ratings has affirmed Byblos Bank’s long-term issuer default rating (IDR) at ‘B’ with a stable outlook, short-term IDR at ‘B’ and viability rating (VR) at ‘b’. Byblos’ long-term IDR is driven by its intrinsic strength, expressed by its VR. [...] > read more

Waqf Fund seeks strengthening Islamic Finance resources

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The Waqf Fund, a Bahrain-based special fund to support Islamic finance training, education and research, which held its 16th Board of Trustees meeting, The board took stock of the ongoing programmes of the Waqf Fund and expressed its satisfaction that [...] > read more

Trade & shipping are crucial for economic development

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Trade and shipping are an integral part of creating prosperity and healthy economies. This means the topic of China Money and Ships 2012 has great significance, according to Chinese envoy to UK. “With the support of the financial sector, China’s [...] > read more

Bahrain’s King attends Queen Elizabeth’s luncheon

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa attended a lunch banquet hosted by Her Majesty Queen of the United Kingdom, Great Britain and Northern Ireland Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle in the British Capital, London. The luncheon was also [...] > read more

HM King Hamad attends Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee celebrations

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of HM the King and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Women, and HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, [...] > read more

Dr Fakhro holds talks with US Dept of Com advisors

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Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro received here a delegation from the US Department of Commerce advisors, led by lawyer and international Consultant James Phillippe. Dr. Fakhro lauded the outstanding deep-rooted Bahraini-US ties, expressing the constant keenness of [...] > read more

The 12th Gulf Radio and Television Festival concludes

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The 12th Gulf Radio and Television Festival concluded with Bahrain clinching two gold prizes and four silver ones. The honouring ceremony was held in the presence of Information Affairs Authority President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa. Head of the [...] > read more

Russell Investments emerges top equity provider in the GCC

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Russell Investments, the global asset manager and one of only a few firms that offer actively managed, multi-asset portfolios and services that include advice, investments and implementation, has received an award for “Best Group over 3 years in the Gulf” [...] > read more

International Workers Day celebrations kick off today

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Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions (GFBTU) will organise on Saturday the annual celebration marking the International Workers Day. HM the King delegated Labour Minister Jamil Humaidan [...] > read more

Global businesses plan Libya as new destination

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Tax and Audit experts from Deloitte Middle East were prominent speakers in ‘Libya Focus Day’, a seminar held by MEED in Dubai. Deloitte leaders provided valuable insights on the overview of Libya’s taxation and accounting framework and helped provide attendees [...] > read more

Etihad Airways in code-share deal with Safi Airways

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Etihad Airways will gain better access to Kabul following the signing of a code share agreement with Safi Airways, the leading international airline of Afghanistan. Under the deal, effective since Tuesday 15 May, Etihad Airways has placed its two-letter ‘EY’ [...] > read more

Prosecution may question doctor on unlawful autopsy

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The Head of Public Prosecution, Nayef Yousif, announced that further investigation into the cause of death in the case of Yousif Ahmed Abbas has taken place in light of a second autopsy that appears to have been conducted through unofficial [...] > read more

BJA members to elect new board today

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Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) General Assembly is set to convene at 10 am its meeting at Al-Oroba Club hall on Saturday to elect the new board members. The previous general assembly was adjourned for two weeks for the want of [...] > read more

Bahrain Air records 20% increase in passenger traffic in Q1

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Bahrain Air, the second national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, revealed it has recorded a significant increase in passenger traffic for the first quarter of 2012. “As the regional market is re-bounding, we are seeing a steady growth since [...] > read more

Ezdan emerges Arab world’s largest realty company

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With market capitalisation rising to $16 billion, Ezdan Real Estate Company is ranked first among the Arab real estate companies, by sector, and is listed as one of 500 top capitalisation Arab companies listed for the year 2011. According to [...] > read more

HRH Premier lauds Bahrainis stance on GCC Union

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa sent a cable to the coalition of the national political societies and participants in Al-Fateh gathering marking the organisation of “Our Gulf is One-Our People is One” gathering. He [...] > read more

Bahrain to take part in GCC Labour Ministries’ meeting

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Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour, Sabah Salem Al Dousari will lead Bahrain’s delegation, which will participate in the GCC Countries’ meeting of the undersecretaries of the Ministries of Labour to be held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on [...] > read more

Tatarstan shows keenness on co-operation with Bahrain

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The President of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov expressed his country’s keenness on promoting relations with Bahrain. He hailed His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa’s landmark visit to Russia, stressing the positive results it yielded then. This came as he received [...] > read more

All sacked employees will be reinstated: Minister

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, who deputized Labour Minister Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan to attend the annual ceremony marking the International Workers’ Day held on Saturday, said that in line with the leadership’s vision the remaining sacked [...] > read more

Bahrain issues travel advisory for Lebanon

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Bahrainis not to travel to Lebanon at the moment as a cautionary measure for their safety, given the unstable security situation in the country. In a travel advisory issued today, the ministry also called [...] > read more

BJA members elect new board

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The Bahrain Journalists Association has elected new board. The BJA board will feature Ehab Ahmed (Al-Watan-193 votes), Muhannad Suleiman (Information Affairs Authority – 185 votes), Samah Allam (Al-Watan-179 votes), Ahdeya Ahmed (IAA-166 votes), Osama Al-Majid (Al-Biald-135 votes), Aisha Al-Siddiqa (Al-Ayyam-118 [...] > read more

Over 28,000 avail number portability

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According to the statistics issued by the Telecommunications s Regulatory Authority, more than 28,000 people so far have benefited from number portability, the service which is provided by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority which proved that the consumers are understanding and [...] > read more

Global refining and petrochemicals event opens today

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The Middle East Petrotech 2012 organising committee convened in Bahrain to conclude arrangements for the 8th Middle East Refining and Petrochemicals Conference and Exhibition, set to take place from 20 – 23 May 2012. Held under the patronage of His [...] > read more

Bahrain seeks help of Interpol to arrest Al Refai

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A Bahrain Court has issued warrants seeking help of International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) for the arrest of Majid Al-Refai and Falah Al Falah who allegedly failed to attend all court hearings to date. The Criminal Court of Bahrain deferred [...] > read more

Bahrain activates agreements signed with Thailand

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The Cabinet has welcomed the fruitful results of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa’s official talks with his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra during her recent visit to the kingdom and their role in strengthening bilateral [...] > read more

Nabil Rajab remains in police custody

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The Chief Prosecutor of the Northern Governorate, Nawaf Al Awadhi said that the Minor Criminal Court “third constituency,” discussed the case of the accused, Nabil Ahmed Abdul Rasul Rajab, who is ascribed to charges of insulting a statutory body in [...] > read more

Cabinet prasises massive support for GCC Union

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The Cabinet, presided over by HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister, praised the massive popular support and blessings for the sake of moving from the phase of cooperation to the phase of fully-fledged union between the [...] > read more

Maintaining social fabric intact is a collective responsibility

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has asserted that social cohesion will always remain one of the main components of civilizational co-existence which has always characterized Bahrain. “Maintaining social harmony is the responsibility of everybody,” [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Foreign Minister attends ISAF meeting

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On behalf of HM the King, Foreign Affairs Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa participates in a meeting of leaders of countries which contribute into the International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) held on the peripheries of NATO [...] > read more

Dr Salah holds talks with High Commissioner for Human Rights

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Minister of State for Human Rights Affairs Dr. Salah bin Ali Abdulrahman discussed with Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-Wha Kang the existing cooperation between the high commissioner’s office and the Kingdom of Bahrain. The cooperation originated during Navi [...] > read more

GFH gets nod to repay its $110m debt in six years

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Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank, Gulf Finance House (GFH) has obtained the approval of its Sukuk holders to restructure its outstanding debt amounting to $110 million. As part of the new terms agreed, the repayment of the Sukuk will be extended [...] > read more

Batelco and Omantel enter into partnership

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Batelco, Bahrain’s leading integrated communications company is further demonstrating its position as a provider of cutting-edge services by launching MPLS IP VPN interconnectivity in partnership with Omantel, the number one service provider of advanced communication solutions in Oman. Batelco’s General [...] > read more

Investors hold $1.5t in shari’ah compliant assets

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Investors globally hold more than $1.5 trillion in Sharia-compliant assets which include equities that are in line with Islamic principles, Sukuk and Islamic funds, according to a senior official at the Central Bank of Bahrain. “Islamic financial products represent a [...] > read more

Bahrain continues upgrading its refining, exploratory capacity

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Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, opened the 8th edition of the Middle East Refining and Petrochemicals Conference and Exhibition known as Middle East Petrotech 2012, stressed the need of ongoing expansion of refining and petrochemical industry [...] > read more

Prince Salman meets cross section of society at his Majlis

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Deputy King Deputy King His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, the Crown Prince, received at his weekly majlis in Riffa Palace, members of the Ruling Family, senior officials, ministers, dignitaries, Shura Councilors, MPs, Municipal councilors, clerics, leading business [...] > read more

GCC Union will bolster economic, political stablibity

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Deputy of HM the King and Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa paid a visit to His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Both leaders emphasised the importance of expediting the [...] > read more

Three died by inhaling toxic gas from a septic tank

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A Bahraini and two Asian workers have died today after inhaling toxic gas, while working in a septic tank located in West Al-Eker. The first victim climbed down the septic tank only to fall to his death after inhaling methane [...] > read more

Bahrain’s Minister Transport holds talks with IATA VP

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Transport Minister Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed received International Air Transport Association (IATA) Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Dr. Majdi Sabri, currently on visit to Bahrain and attending the Aviation Security and Safety Conference. The two-day [...] > read more

Over 1000 attends US National Day reception

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Over 1000 guests, ministers, head of diplomatic corps and people from all walks attended the reception hosted by US Ambassador Thomas Krajeski marking the 236th United States National Day at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. His Royal [...] > read more

1,200 enterprises benefit from Tamkeen’s ESF

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Tamkeen announced that a total of 1,200 enterprises have benefited from its BD10 million Enterprise Support Fund (ESF) as of the end of April since it re-opened applications from businesses earlier this year. The Fund, which comes as part of [...] > read more

GIB transaction wins global recognition

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Almana Group’s $215 million Sukuk issuance, in which Gulf International Bank (GIB) played the role of sole bookrunner and joint lead manager, has jointly received The Banker magazine’s Deal of the Year 2012 title for the Islamic Finance-Middle East category. [...] > read more

BMI Bank announces special promotion on loan

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BMI Bank unveiled a new personal loan promotion offering customers the opportunity to benefit from free life insurance and zero administration fees in addition to a low interest rate of 6.25% p.a. The Salaf Special personal loan promotion, which runs [...] > read more

Middle East energy sector eyes $530b investments

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Around $530 billion are to be invested in the energy industries in the Middle East between 2012 and 2015. About 60% of these investments will take place in the GCC countries, according to the Minister of Energy Bahrain. “Although being [...] > read more

Bahrain upholds human rights, democratic values

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Under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Kingdom has committed itself to reform and development, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa said, noting that protection of human rights, [...] > read more

Bahrain continues reforms march: Deputy King

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Deputy King His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, the Crown Prince, reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to the march of progress and development for a brighter future. He stressed the vital importance of security and stability and commitment to the [...] > read more

Tamkeen joins forces with Aon Hewitt

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As part of its commitment to meeting the requirements of the Bahrain labour market and supporting private sector growth, Tamkeen partnered with Aon Hewitt, a leading global human resources consultancy firm, to implement a pioneering research initiative, “Qudurat”. Small and [...] > read more

Bapco leaders to attend Chevron FLTT program

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As part of Bapco’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Executive Development Programme which aims at preparing the future leaders of industry, a group of selected managers and superintendents have been recently selected to attend the group three Chevron Future Leader [...] > read more

Water Cos to grow 5% a year till 2020

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With the water companies sector to grow by 4-5% per year on average in real terms up to 2020, investments in water infrastructure are seen as good long-term investments, according to Bank Sarasin’s Sustainable Research report. “Sustainably managed investments in [...] > read more

Gulf Studies Program generates global interest

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A new course in Gulf studies, the first of its kind in the Middle East and only the second in the world, has been launched in the national university of the Gulf state of Qatar. The Master’s programme in Gulf [...] > read more

New ship makes waves in Gulf marine research

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A new, state-of-the-art ship given to Qatar University will transform marine research in the Gulf region. The model research facility Janan –named after the island located in the western part of the Qatari peninsula – was donated to the University [...] > read more

Qatar hosts first model Islamic conference

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Qatar’s first Model Organization of Islamic Cooperation was hosted by the state’s national university last month and drew over 500 students to discuss and debate two topical global issues – food security and the environmental crisis, and political changes in [...] > read more

Global Intrapreneurship Forum opens on May 27th

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The Firm (TF), an international private members networking organization for business development and intrapreneurship, announced that the Global Intrapreneurship Forum 2012, taking place in Bahrain on May 27-28 2012 at the Gulf Hotel, will be held under the patronage of [...] > read more

HM King Hamad attends Royal wedding

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa honoured the wedding ceremony of Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, grandson of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown [...] > read more

Bahrain backs GCC initiative on Yemen

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ghanim bin Fadhl Al Buainin stressed the government’s support to the GCC initiative to maintain security and stability in Yemen. He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to providing assistance in the training and rehabilitation of [...] > read more

HRH Premier welcomes dignitaries at Royal wedding

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His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa received at his palace in Riffa –in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander – senior members of the Ruling [...] > read more

Bahrain’s economy is back on the track

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Minister of Energy Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza launched the annual report “Oil and Gas Year 2012″, prepared by Wildcat International in cooperation with the National Authority for Oil and Gas. The celebration to launch the report was held at [...] > read more

IAA President assures freedom of Press

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Information Affairs Authority (IAA) President Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa stressed the Kingdom’s unflinching commitment to supporting the activities of the Gulf Press Union (GPU) since its establishment seven years ago. “The aim is to upgrade journalism professionally, boost [...] > read more

Ministry launches probe into death of labourers

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The Ministry of Labour initiated an investigation into the tragic accident that occurred in one of the worksites in Al Aker, which resulted in the death of three workers after falling into a deep pit for a sewage network. The [...] > read more

Mahlouji assumes new responsibility at StanChart

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Standard Chartered announced the appointment of Morad Mahlouji as Regional Head of Origination and Client Coverage (OCC) for the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan (MENAP). In his new role, Morad will lead the Bank’s Origination and Client Coverage Group, [...] > read more

Saudi Arabia is the most buoyant construction market globally

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There is imminent growth in the Saudi Arabian construction industry, being the biggest market in the GCC in terms of population and GDP. Budget value of contacts to be awarded in Saudi Arabia in 2011 onwards is set to increase [...] > read more

GCC presents $500b investment opportunities

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Despite grappling with challenges and delivery issues related to current projects, major opportunities in the construction sector remain prevalent in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Abu Dhabi and Iraq in 2012, according to the newly released Deloitte Middle East’s annual report on [...] > read more

Bahrain’s GOP scoops innovation in ship operations award

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Bahrain’s General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) won the ‘Innovation in Ship Operations’ Award at this year’s Seatrade Awards. The awards were held in line with its efforts to promote excellence and innovation in the shipping and maritime industry. This [...] > read more

Sakana provides finances for Kazerooni Villas

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Sakana Holistic Housing Solutions the innovative Islamic mortgage finance provider recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ARK Holding to provide home financing for ready to move in super deluxe luxury Kazerooni Villas located near St. Christopher’s School, Saar. The [...] > read more

Kuwait’s Amir launches Warba Bank

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Under the patronage and attendance of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, Warba Bank celebrated its official launch in a grand ceremony that took place at Salwa Sabah Al Ahmed Ballroom. The bank started [...] > read more

SME sector remains engine of growth in the GCC

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Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the president of the organizing committee of Middle East SME, a forum for SMEs, emphasized that the forum reflects the UAE Leadership’s support to the youth in view of the importance of [...] > read more

Temenos plans new payment gateway for ABN AMRO Bank

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Temenos announced plans to develop a new payments system, built in conjunction with ABN AMRO Bank N.V., the Dutch bank. The new system will be based upon the Temenos Enterprise Frameworks Architecture (TEFA), which provides the platform for Temenos’ market-leading [...] > read more

Barclays gets nod to sell BlackRock stock

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Barclays Bank PLC (Barclays) in a statement said that it had agreed to sell over 26.2 million shares of common stock of BlackRock, Inc. (BlackRock) in an underwritten public offering at a price of $160 per share. In addition, as [...] > read more

Lenovo yearly sales up37% to $29.6b

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Lenovo Group announced results for its fourth fiscal quarter and full year ended March 31, 2012. With full-year record sales of $29.6 billion, an increase of almost 37 percent year-over-year, Lenovo finished its financial year as the world’s second largest [...] > read more

Westcon Group and Jabra sign partnership

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Jabra has appointed Westcon Middle East Ltd. as a distributor for the Middle East, Pakistan and North Africa regions. Under the agreement, Westcon Middle East Ltd. will distribute the entire suite of Jabra UC-optimized headsets through its strong reseller base [...] > read more

Bahrain’s record on human rights get global recognition

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The Bahraini delegation in charge of the periodic review voiced great satisfaction over the international understanding for the Kingdom’s achievements. Led by Minister of State for Human Rights Affairs Dr Salah AIi, said that the international stance would give Bahrain [...] > read more

Vice Adm. Miller relieves Vice Adm. Mark Fox

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NAVCENT Fifth Fleet (C5F), Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) held a change of command ceremony aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) where Vice Admiral John Miller relieved Vice Admiral Mark Fox as commander of NAVCENT/C5F/CMF. As the guest speaker, US [...] > read more

Manama hosts regional IT and communication body

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Members of the Board of Directors of the Regional Centre for Information and Communication Technology (RCICT), inaugurated asserted that RCICT, the first of its kind in the world, is a milestone in terms of the technical disciplines and technological training [...] > read more

Union serves as basis of Gulf Council’s inception

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Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani has extended heartfelt congratulations to leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), marking the 31st Anniversary of the entity, launched in Abu Dhabi on May 25, 1971, [...] > read more

Persons involved in death of labourers face charges

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Labour Minister Jameel bin Mohammed-Ali Humaidan confirmed that the ministry will not hesitate to refer anyone involved in leading to the accident that took place in Al Aker, and leading to the death of three workers, to the public prosecution [...] > read more

Urbanisation opens new era for investments

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Bahrain’s Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa emphasized that the development process initiated by the Government covers all aspects of development and urbanization and opens wider horizons for investment in the real estate sector specifically in the light [...] > read more

Bapco AGM ratifies financials for 2011

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Bapco during annual general assembly was held at Al Dar, Awali chaired by Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy and Chairman of National Oil and Gas Authority was also attended by representatives from nogaholding, Bapco and Ministry [...] > read more

Etiahd eyes unique premiership double

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Etihad Airways is on the brink of a unique sporting double as rugby union partner, Harlequins, looks to emulate the airline’s football partner, Manchester City, by winning the English Premiership title this Saturday, 26 May. Harlequins will play the biggest [...] > read more

Saar Central signs up with VABF

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Saar Central, Capivest’s luxury residential development in the Kingdom, has signed a strategic marketing services agreement with Vahid Associates Brand Futurists (VABF), the region’s award-winning brand master planners. Under this agreement, Saar Central’s senior management team will work closely with [...] > read more

No compromise on security and public safety: Minister

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The Kingdom of Bahrain is seeking a political solution based on dialogue to the crisis but remains vigilant on the security and public safety, which remains a top priority of the Government, according to a statement issued by the IAA [...] > read more