YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE Arts Culture Clubs Sports Interviews Lifestyle Dining Nightlife TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT - DINING www.bahrainthismonth.com Digital Edition Since 1997 MOTORING DINING PEOPLE UK IN BAHRAIN WTM We talk art and family with celebrated artist Mariam Fakhro Khadija Mercer speaks about the need for market adaptability Beauty Essentials Skincare The World of Modest Fashion Where to Eat this Ramadan Ishaq Madan reflects on his photography and ambitions A chat with Wolfgang Puck about business, culinary arts and current affairs A Special Supplement Dick Potterr tells us about the UK’s role in motoring A chat with the Red Bull Racing Honda team April 2021 | Vol. 25 | Issue 4 | BD2 / SR20 RAMADAN SPECIAL
www.bahrainthismonth.com 4 April 2021 8 40 16 21 10 44 We try out the set menu at Downtown Rotana’s Teatro The best of dining options this month, including some very welcome iftars at the finest hotels! Business Bites The Spirit of Giving Six charitable causes that you can donate to this Ramadan. A special supplement celebrating bilateral relations between the UK and Bahrain. Decrypting Cryptocurrencies Business expert, Pria Masson Tanwar, discusses the world of cryptocurrencies. My Life in Cars Dick Potter tells us all about the UK’s role in the motoring industry Full Speed Ahead Kristian Harrison and Dick Potter have a chat with the Red Bull Racing Honda team Racing Through A throwback to the time Sangeeth Mullassery had a chat with Alfa Romeo Motoring Bites The Return of the Master Chef Michelin-starred, international celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck graces Bahrain’s shores once again! The Visual Storyteller Supremely talented photographer, Ishaq Madan, tells us about his photography, exciting projects and his fundraising adventure. APRIL 15 16 40 10 21 39 42 44 46 48 13 8 DINING INTERVIEWS COMMERCE FEATURE UK IN BAHRAIN MOTORING ISSUE 284 CONTENTS www.bahrainthismonth.com bahrainthismonth bhthismonth 48
April 2021 5 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander RBH Medical Center Opens at The Park - Janabiyah Premium prívate healthcare provider in the Kingdom, Royal Bahrain Hospital, opened its second branch – RBH Medical Center - in the Northern Governorate on April 3. The new branch brings its expert medical services closer to residents of the Northern Governorate. Conveniently located at The Park mall, Janabiyah, the new RBH Medical Center will provide the services of top doctors from the Royal Bahrain Hospital. The Center is equipped to provide outpatient, pharmacy, laboratory and radiology services and some of its prominent specialties include – Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatrics, Orthopedics, ENT, Cardiology, Ophthalmology, Gastroenterology, Urology, Dermatology & Cosmetology, Dentistry, Nutrition and Dietetics, Neurology and Physiotherapy.
www.bahrainthismonth.com 6 April 2021 APRIL ISSUE 216 CONTENTS With Ramadan dawning on us this month, we explore the magnificent world of Modest Fashion. Jewellery that’s sure to make it onto your wishlist. Ouiam El Hassani tells us how to involve the kids this Ramadan. The latest Perfumes and Makeup products Skincare that will leave you glowing! Exquisite décor to adorn your homes this Ramadan Delicious recipes for the perfect family feast! We speak to the celebrated Bahraini artist at Bahrain’s recent ‘Love & Inspire’ Art Exhibition, Mariam Fakhro. CSR and Marketing Manager, and insightful university student, Khadija Mercer tells us about the need for market adaptability and her plans for the future. 58 66 70 64 61 68 72 62 63 Fashion Interview Parenting Beauty Lifestyle www.womanthismonth.com womanthismonth rhmbahrain 58 62 61 64 63 68 72
April 2021 7 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE Arts Culture Clubs Sports Interviews Lifestyle Dining Nightlife TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT - DINING www.bahrainthismonth.com Digital Edition Since 1997 MOTORING DINING PEOPLE UK IN BAHRAIN WTM We talk art and family with celebrated artist Mariam Fakhro Khadija Mercer speaks about the need for market adaptability Beauty Essentials Skincare The World of Modest Fashion Where to Eat this Ramadan Ishaq Madan reflects on his photography and ambitions A chat with Wolfgang Puck about business, culinary arts and current affairs A Special Supplement Dick Potterr tells us about the UK’s role in motoring A chat with the Red Bull Racing Honda team April 2021 | Vol. 25 | Issue 4 | BD2 / SR20 RAMADAN SPECIAL April 2021 Bahrain This Month George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman COVER Cover Picture: Ramadan 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com Scan this QR Code to subscribe to the digital edition of the magazine. Printing Press Union Press, Bahrain Published monthly by RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2020 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission. • Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editor Farah Baig Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Kristian Harrison, Dick Potter, Pria Masson Tanwar, Ouiam Charkani El Hassani, Bill Grieve Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Art Director Hatem Monem Webmaster Nishad Eapen CRM & Database Coordinator Muna Yousef Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales Anuradha Manhas [email protected] DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Digital Marketing & Social Media Executive Farah Baig Welcome to the April issue of Bahrain This Month. Things have begun to pick up in the Kingdom, once again, so there’s plenty to look back o the no-no a couple were rather n aside from exciting things to look forward to! As Ramadan soon approaches, we take it upon ourselves to bring to light some excellent causes on the island that are making a difference in the lives of many. In keeping with Ramadan traditions, our team of voracious writers has put together a list of outstanding iftars and ghabgas to visit at some of the island’s best hotels. In our interview section, we talk with a young, gifted Bahraini photographer, Ishaq Madan, who tells us about his visual storytelling, and talks about an upcoming feat that will see him see him scaling three mountains to raise funds for charity! Another very welcome interviewee was the world-renowned chef, Wolfgang Puck, who had plenty of thoughts to share. April is the month that BTM traditionally engages with the Kingdom’s British community, through publication of our UK in Bahrain supplement. Our main interview here is with the British Ambassador, H.E. Roderick Drummond, who talks about his time in the Kingdom to date so far and his plans for the futurer. Looking back, one of the most exciting developments last month was the Kingdom’s ability to successfully host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. We had the opportunity to chat with the Red Bull Racing Honda and Alfa Romeo teams to find out what it’s like living life in the fast lane. In Woman This Month, given that Ramadan is just around the corner, our team of fashionistas explored the world of modest fashion. We had the pleasure of speaking to the celebrated Bahraini artist, Mariam Fakhro, about her recent collaboration with her daughter and grandchildren in the recent ‘Love and Inspire’ art exhibition. We also bring you the best of beauty essentials, skincare, home décor and more! Despite the challenges that the current pandemic has presented the Kingdom with, our beautiful island continues to be as charming and eventful as ever. That being said, remember that Bahrain This Month will always be your guide to a great way of life.
THE VISUAL STORYTELLER Supremely talented photographer, Ishaq Madan, tells Bahrain This Month’s Farah Baig about his photography, exciting projects and his upcoming adventure through which he’ll be raising funds for a charity that changes the lives of the terminally ill. You need no introduction when it comes to your followers, but could you tell our readers a little bit about yourself? I am a self-taught, published Bahraini photographer practicing the art of photography since 2014. My work often combines natural light techniques that play with soft highlights and unusual perspectives that aim to create painting like photographs which portray subtle visual storytelling through the characters captured in the frame. Moreover, my inspiration is heavily drawn from my desire to bridge the gap between Bahrain and the world through visual masterpieces that embody the definition of the word ‘Sonder’, in parallel with local Bahraini constructs of architecture and traditional metaphors via visual elements and personal emotions. You describe yourself as a ‘Bahraini visual storyteller’. What led to your interest in photography and when did you get started? My journey began during the rise of iPhoneography; however, I believe the seeds were planted when I used to take photos of my mother and brother during our summer holidays abroad when I was a kid. Phone photography and social media played a huge role in my development as the ease of mobility and connecting with the world instantly grew my curiosity to see the mundane and beyond as visual poems relaying stories of a still life. How would you describe your photography? I would best describe my photography as visual stories that portray the in between: moments that occur in fraction of seconds. Often missed and neglected, that’s where choices are made, and the future follows. What has been your most exciting project to date? One of the pleasures of this medium of art is it has taken me around the world as my works have been featured in numerous exhibitions ranging from Sharjah Art Foundation’s Vantage Point 5 (2018`), Paris’ Biennale (2019), Dubai’s Arab Street Vol. 2, and the 46th Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition (2020). I was also recently commissioned by Bahrain International Airport to create a unique piece for the new airport terminal which began operating in January 2021. I think the airport project is currently my favorite, and has been my most exciting project to date. It was as if I manifested it into reality. I recall when the construction of the new airport was announced and the plans to have a museum in it were shared to the public. I said to myself, “I want to be a part of this new historical moment in Bahrain’s history”. Years later, I got the opportunity as BAC commissioned a number of local artists and I to create something new. Of course, I can’t thank Abdulla Buhijji and Noor Alwan, the curators, for the opportunity and support. As someone who has delved deep into the world of photography, are there any photographers you look up to? I look up to Japanese photographer Daido Moriyama, and the late German photographer Peter Lindbergh as their philosophies intertwine in respect to the breaking of norms, and the call to pursuit of whatever brings you joy in the medium of photography; hence, my works reflect a range of photography genres such as street, fashion, and architectural photography. You recently announced that you have teamed up with Marie Curie UK and NTU 3 Peaks Trip Team to embark on the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’. Could you tell our readers about this feat? Indeed, I’ve teamed up with Marie Curie UK and Nottingham Trent University 3 Peaks Trip Team to embark on the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ in June, a journey to the 3 highest peaks in the UK: Ben Nevis in Scotland (1,345 m), Scafell Pike in England (978 m), and Snowdonia (1,085 m) in Wales in around 36 hours or less. A total estimated distance of 42 KM & a total interview 8 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com
ascent of 3,000 m. It’s a national event with many organisations and universities taking part to raise funds for charities of their choice; professionals tend to complete the challenge within 24 hours! That being said, I am fundraising in support of Marie Curie UK; a charity with origins that date back to the late 40s, which provides care and support to the terminally ill. Every penny will help frontline nurses provide vital care to those in need. At least an hour of service can be provided with only £20. Every nonanonymous donor will receive a collection of postcards called the ‘NOTTS Collection’ - a one-off series of postcards with photos captured in Nottingham. Is this your first charitable project? What’s making you pursue the challenge? In terms of fundraising, yes, it is! I believe in travelling with purpose. A purpose of doing good and helping others wherever you go and stay; it illuminates your self-growth and soul. Isn’t that something worth living for? To touch the lives of others in a positive way. Nonetheless, I love challenges, it’s the best way to learn more about yourself. What made you pick Marie Curie UK as your charity of choice? Nottingham Trent University 3 Peaks Trip Team have always partnered with Marie Curie UK. The organisation literally changes the lives of the terminally ill, empowering them to further lead their lives with courage, strength and joy. When will you begin the challenge and how do you plan to prepare for it? Inshallah, if restrictions ease up, we will begin our adventure sometime mid-June. I’ve been preparing myself for this feat by going on daily walks around Nottingham. Being a photographer, it helps motivate me more than usual as it’s only when I am practicing street photography. A win-win situation if you ask me. You recently moved to Nottingham. Are you pursuing a special project or goal in the area? I am pursuing my postgraduate studies here in Nottingham, at Nottingham Trent University. When there’s a crisis, there’s also an opportunity. The current situation has shown me that it’s a good time to increase my knowledge and skills. As the world evolves rapidly I need to adapt with it as well. What would you consider your greatest achievement to date? I’d probably say exhibiting in Paris. That was such a surreal experience right out of a movie! It’s quite a rare experience exhibiting internationally, especially being an artist in the Middle East in the 21st century. Nonetheless, all my achievements would have never been possible without the support of my Instagram family, I owe it all to them. interview April 2021 9 www.bahrainthismonth.com
10 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com ramadan feature The Spirit of Giving Here are 6 charitable causes that could use your help this Ramadan! Ramadan is a time for giving and deep self-reflection. The Kingdom has no shortage of charitable organisations or causes which could use the public’s help in terms of funding, volunteering or raising awareness. While there are a multitude of worthy causes, we believe these six have made quite an impact and could use your help! SHAMSAHA Founded in the Kingdom of Bahrain in 2016, Shamsaha, which is Arabic for ‘Her Sun’, is a non-profit corporation focusing on women’s empowerment and protection. Shamsaha is the Middle East’s first and only domestic and sexual violence crisis program and has done plenty to protect women across the Kingdom. Shamsaha has three primary mandates; 1) 24/7 crisis advocacy for women 2) women’s goal-based empowerment case work support and 3) community education and awareness, including mirco-finance. Shamsaha works tirelessly to give women a voice so they can realise their potential socially and economically. The corporation will be working on a fundraising initiative throughout the holy month in addition to a ‘Micro-finance and Entrepreneurship Project’. To get volunteer, donate or find out more, visit www.shamsaha.org or call 17 651-421. A BOX OF GOODNESS This charitable initiative has positively impacted the lives of over 3000 less fortunate individuals in Bahrain over the last four years. The group only accepts donations in kind and will be collecting non-perishable food items and essentials which will be distributed to less fortunate local and expatriate families during Ramadan. Most recently, the group collected donations for first time mothers and their children to provide them with all they need. To get in touch, contact @aboxofgoodness on Instagram. AL SANABEL ORPHANS CARE SOCIETY Since its establishment in 1999, the society has relied on corporate and individual support to care for the Kingdom’s orphans. The society works tirelessly on building the integrated personality of orphans of different ages and groups so they may grow to be productive citizens with a great quality of life. To ensure that all their needs are taken care of, the society has divided their causes into five broad categories: financial, educational, residential, medical and social. For the holy month of Ramadan, the society will be accepting donations towards its food and clothing drives, aside from its on-going activities. To get in touch, visit www.alsanabel-bh.org or call 33 553-535.
April 2021 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com ramadan feature ONEHEARTBAHRAIN This charitable group reaches out to and distributes food and other items to migrant workers who are often overlooked and faces several hardships, sometimes involving access to basic necessities. In a recent conversation with Bahrain This Month, the group stated that there will be three main strands of activity to support socio-economic well-being: food, jobs and second-hand goods. The group has actively relayed job opportunities to job seekers – especially those who were presented with challenges throughout the pandemic. To find out more about the cause, visit www.oneheartbahrain.com or check out @oneheartbahrain on Instagram. THE INDIAN COMMUNITY RELIEF FUND (ICRF) ICRF is a non-government, non-profit organisation established in 1999, working under the patronage of the Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain for the general welfare of Indian workers in Bahrain. The organisation lends a helping hand to the economically weaker section of the Indian community in Bahrain, providing them with legal aid, 24/7 emergency help, community welfare services, medical assistance, counseling etc. Icrf has conducted 98 medical camps that has benefited more than 24,000 low income Indians in Bahrain. One of the unique features of the ICRF is the Family Relief Fund, which extends financial assistance to the dependents of poor workers who have perished in Bahrain. Through this initiative they have raised much needed funds for over 150 families. For more information, visit www.icrfbahrain.com. THE MIGRANT WORKERS PROTECTION SOCIETY (MWPS) MWPS is a registered Non-profit NGO, established in 2005, which helps expatriate workers achieve basic human rights in Bahrain in accordance with international standards. The society actively creates awareness while educating, advocating and providing basic necessities like food and clothing to these workers. In addition, they assist them through translating and facilitating their repatriation when required. The society relies on local donations from private companies and individuals to carry out this important work. Aside from funds, the society accepts donations of food, clothing, toiletries and more. For more information, visit a or call 17 827-895.
12 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Dinner with Wolfgang Puck at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Wolfgang Puck made his regular return to his restaurants at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay during the F1 last month. His set menu delighted carnivores, pescaterians and vegetarians alike and on this occasion he was joined by his wife and two sons.
THE RETURN OF THE MASTER CHEF It’s that time of year when the Michelin-starred, international celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck graces Bahrain’s shores. He made time to chat about business, culinary arts and current affairs exclusively to BTM’s Publishing Chairman, George Middleton. Your company encompasses 26 fine dining locations and is listed amongst the top 40 restaurants in the United States. How important is training for you to ensure the standards maintained in your organisation? We have a certain culture and I really believe people have to buy into the culture. People should want to work for us; if not, they shouldn’t be with us. We have so many people who have been with me for so many years, some for even 40 years; their whole working life. Our chef at Spago, for example, came to interview with me for a school project. Then when he was in high school, he started to work on the weekends. And then after high school, he started to work full-time and now he’s the chef at Spago and supervises three other restaurants. So, I think training is really an important part to get the right people; people with passion, who are excited to work with us. And then we can move them into our style. What’s your take on fake meat? I’m not really much into anything fake. I understand the environmental impact with greenhouse gases, but I think in America, for example, we should just cut down the portion size. We would need, maybe, half the number of cows running around. I think Americans also have to learn how to use all parts of the meat, not just the prime cuts like ribeye or New York steak. So, I think it will help if we become a little bit more self-conscious in how we utilise things, how we eat in smaller portions. Nobody really needs a 16-ounce steak, right? Eight ounces is good enough. Even that I like to share with my wife on our nights out. What is your personal favourite cuisine? I love all kinds of food. As long as the quality is really good. That’s why I like to go to good restaurants because I know the quality of the ingredients will be really first class. It could be Japanese, Italian, French or any other food. It’s the experience of an evening out, not just the food, you know? Something people may not know about you is that you have also acted on screen. What was your most memorable experience behind the camera? Oh, so many of them! I did this TV show about Las Vegas where I got really nervous, where I just needed to be myself. But I was most nervous shooting with Sharon Stone. I forgot my lines and all of a sudden, I blacked out, and I said it in German. And of course, they couldn’t understand what I was saying. And the director said, “No, no, you have to speak in English”. I have acted in Frasier as well. I like doing live TV for cooking shows, but I think I’ll leave the acting part to the actors. Who is a chef that you most admire and consider to be a master in culinary arts? There are a lot of young people out there who are really interesting, but I judge somebody by longevity. Some chefs turn popular overnight, but soon they’re just gone. There are few who were really successful 30 or 40 years ago, and are still successful today, and that is really important to me. interview April 2021 13 www.bahrainthismonth.com
14 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Malaysian Ambassador’s Birthday A surprise birthday party was held for Malaysian Ambassador, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusof, organised by his wife Wani, at their residence in Hamala. @makirest @makirestaurant WWW.OLIVERMAKI.COM To order call: 17522733 GHABKA PLATTER رﻣﻀﺎن ﻛﺮﻳﻢ
April 2021 15 www.bahrainthismonth.com Behnaz Sanjana savoured a riveting culinary performance at Teatro and is counting the days before she can return for an encore. You may remember Downtown Rotana’s Teatro in all its theatrical glory by night in its pre-Covid heyday. Glitzy. Luxe-lounge. A show full of swagger. The stage however, has had to walk with the times, and the curtains now go up every afternoon instead, with a setmenu deal that sounds too good to be true, but is not. Hear me out. Teatro seems to have missed its patrons much, and shows it by offering a four-course set menu at BD7. And get this – guests get a voucher for a complimentary meal on their subsequent visit. I’ll wait till you do the math. And now for the ultimate wow-factor – there are five, yes five, different set menus to choose from: Italian, Asian, Arabic, Indian and Vegan. Scanning the menu virtually, the Asian menu vied for my attention. As there were more of us at the table, we ordered each of the menus so we could share in an array of cuisines, of course, being extremely mindful of our actions in keeping with new table etiquette. #newnormal We waited for the show to begin, watching the culinary champs at work backstage through the glass panel while sipping on our summer coolers from the extensive beverage list. The opening act of starters, followed with hearty soup, quelled those 1pm hunger pangs and whetted the appetite for more. My Asian plate was Som tam Thai - long yard beans and shrimp with chilli and peanut goodness. Crackers and sweet chilli dip gave contrasting texture and a piquant kick. The lamb kibbe from the Arabic menu was melt-in-your-mouth meat, flavour packed with Arabic spices. India gave a street-side bite of tangy papadi chaat, and lamb seekh kababs. I shamelessly also helped myself to the moreish Vegan pankocrusted vegetables with fluffy garlic dip and Italy’s aromatic focaccia. Downing herby Tom Yam Kai with chicken for soup, I heard slurpy sounds of approval for the other varieties all around the table. But the loudest was for the Vegan wild mushroom soup with vegan cream and truffles. Headlining the show came the mains. I dug clean disposable wooden cutlery to sample all of them. My Asian Pla rad Prik - Thai reef fish coated in spicy-sweet tamarind sauce spiked with basil was a runaway hit, but the Indian Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani and the Italian Fusilli with beef ragout, salsa verde and onion crisps were equal winners. Special mention to the vegan burger here. Sandwiched between pillowy grilled buns, the patty was a delicious meaty texture, colour and mouthful, leaving us guessing the ingredients. Onto the finale; the Italian Tiramisu struck the delicate balance between lightness and decadence. India’s Gulab Jamun was a pleaser, while the Um Ali’s yielding filo pastry in creamy richness did the Middle Eastern menu proud. Vegan dessert was palate cleansing tropical fruit with a zesty mango sorbet and Asian flavours took over the senses with Tab Tim Krob. Everyone savoured its unique flavours of water chestnuts, jackfruit, melon and sago in sweet coconut milk. With stomachs satiated to the core, we ambled out, each one secretly scheming about what we would devour on our next visit to Teatro. I know I was. TAKE A BOW, TEATRO. review
www.bahrainthismonth.com tablehopping 16 April 2021 ‘Let’s MEAT Again’ Friday Brunch will be staged at Flavours on 2 at Downtown Rotana every Friday, with a new lavish, modernised vision. This fine dining experience will be on from 12.30pm – 4pm, where you will be able to order all that your heart desires and stomach can bear from an extensive menu that is directly served to your plate. Take this opportunity to catch up with your loved ones and their latest news while enjoying a memorable experience that costs BD22, including the soft drinks package, or BD33, with unlimited drinks package. Children between the ages of six and 12 pay BD11, while those below six can dine for free. Call 33 605-070 / 16 000-111 The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s new beachfront bar, La Dolce Vita stays true to its meaning of “the sweet life”; an ideal place to enjoy life’s simplest pleasures, and the best island views in the company of friends and family. La Dolce Vita features signature libations such as Vespa with cucumber and green chili, and Pinoco with pineapple and coconut, along with a vast selection of craft beverages. The dining menu consists of light bites including Shrimp and Seabass Ceviche ala Veracruzana with avocado, lime and coriander, Chicken Satay with spicy peanut sauce, Crispy Hammour Sushi with tempura shrimp, cream cheese, avocado, fried hammour, spicy mayo and teriyaki. Open daily, from noon to 10pm, La Dolce Vita will stimulate your senses as you indulge in delicious food and beverage while soaking up the sun, dancing to Latin melodies or simply gazing at the sunset. Call 17 586-499 or visit - www.ritzcarlton.com/bahrain. SUPER SUMPTUOUS THE SWEET LIFE Unwind at the perfect outdoor poolside venue to enjoy the cool breeze, magical sunsets and majestic views surrounding Bahrain Bay at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay for Sushi Nights at the Pool Deck. Indulge in the newly introduced Japanese menu featuring sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls by the sushi chef along with refreshing drinks and the DJ’s tunes, every Thursday – Saturday until Ramadan, from 6pm – 11pm. Call 17 115-000 WEEKEND REVELRY Good food is certainly not a scarcity on the island. Here are some places where you can grab a fantastic meal on the island. DINING OUT!
www.bahrainthismonth.com tablehopping April 2021 17 Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s new outdoor dining, Bello Tapas, is staged every Wednesday night at the hotel’s poolside terrace. Chef Domenico draws upon his longstanding experience to serve Italian gastronomic tradition featuring creative dishes using only the finest produce. Roll with the al fresco Italian theme and start with an Aperitivo of Aperol Spritz, before taking a deep dive into a selection of Italian grape by the glass. The food menu is replete with Italian classics, all served as small plates for people to share their passion for culinary and artistic delights. Bello Tapas is priced at BD12 per person for the food menu selection. Special Aperitivo are available upon request. Call 17 460-017. ITALIAN TREAT OUT OF A STORY BOOK Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invites you to celebrate Easter with a delicious Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Afternoon Tea inspired by the Roald Dahl classic at Bay View, from April 2 – 10, between noon and 9pm. Created by Executive Pastry Chef Imad Boukli, the scrumptious treats include a golden ticket of caramelised hazelnut praline, oompa lumpa cake, blond dolce caramel mousse egg, wonka’s whipple, Caribe cake pop, and cocoa infused scones. The chocolate extravaganza is complemented with finger sandwiches and a selection of 18 loose leaf teas. This unique experience is priced at BD17 per person or BD31.500 per couple. Call 17 115-000 On all a la carte (all branches) after 8:00 pm (Available for dine in, take away and delivery) Join us this Ramadan at Lanterns for the perfect Iftar experience Iftar Feast Iftari time to 9:30pm Lanterns Budaiya,Riffa,Adliya BD 5.9* *Taxes and service charges as applicable Adliya | 17246777 Budaiya | 17590591 Ri a | 77366333
www.bahrainthismonth.com tablehopping 18 April 2021 THE BACKYARD RAMADAN CELEBRATION FOR THE SENSES Enjoy Ramadan at The Backyard at Crowne Plaza Bahrain from sunset to 1am with an Iftar fit for friends and family. Enjoy a wide array of international and Bahraini Ramadan favourites curated exclusively for you. In the spirit of sharing the outlet will be serving a five-course family feast of amazing culinary delights from April 12- May 13. Call 17 531-122 / 39 920-163 Dusk beckons the start of time-honoured traditions at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain at the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan. The five-star luxury lifestyle destination invites families, corporategroups, and couples to experience the month-long celebration like never before at the resort’s al fresco venues by the beach. A family-style sharing menu will be set up with aromatic dishes encompassing flavours of traditional Arabian cuisine, along with modern international fare. New this year is a selection of speciality rice dishes from different parts of the world including Dum Biryani from India, Paella from Spain, Tahig from Iran, and Koshari from Egypt. Ramadan desserts and gourmet sweet delicacies served at the end of each meal will satisfy the most discerning palates. A traditional Arabic coffee station will be set up to welcome guests to the night’s festivities. Shisha-service will be available nightly from sunset to 2am. Iftar at Thai and La Plage is priced at BD26 per person, and Ghabga is BD29 per person. The Ramadan spread at Nikmati costs BD25 per person, available for group bookings of up to 30 persons. Call 17 586-499. Downtown Rotana invites you to gather with family, friends, and colleagues during the Holy month of Ramadan over a vibrant spread of extravagant Iftar at Downtown Rotana for only BD15. Indulge in a combination of live cooking stations along with delicious delicacies served at your table Including live grills and traditional Ramadan dishes, drinks, and desserts. Special discounts for group bookings of 10 or more guests. You can enjoy a group Ghabga for only BD15 per person, with a minimum of 20 persons. The unique Ramadan decorations and ambience will add some more magic to your evenings, accompanied with all necessary health and safety procedures. Call 33 605-070 / 16 000-111 RAMADAN FLAVOURS Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain with a daily steak iftar at Legendz Steakhouse. Choose from a much-loved signature menu that offers unforgettable flavours along with Arabic favourites, served at your table. This meaty meal can be savoured every day, from sunset to 8.90pm, and is priced at BD24 per person. Call 17 227 777. A LEGENDARY IFTAR
www.bahrainthismonth.com tablehopping April 2021 19 Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay enables you to retreat to a beautifully transformed poolside venue overlooking Bahrain Bay and Manama’s glistening skyline for a lavish experience surrounded by traditional décor in a relaxing atmosphere. Spend Ramadan evenings under the night sky, with live entertainment from Arabic musicians. Chef Hassan Ahmed and his culinary team will be serving a selection of popular Iftar and Ghabga delicacies and global specialities. For Iftar, the sharingstyle set menus range from BD17.500, BD20, and BD22.500 per person, for a minimum of two persons. An à la carte menu is also on offer. Ghabga entails a minimum spend of BD15 per person with both à la carte menu or sharing set menus available. Guests can also book a Private Cabana at the Pool Deck for a minimum spend of BD150, for a maximum of six persons. Call 17 115-000. Experience the month of Ramadan at InterContinental Regency Bahrain, where you can revel in personal and attentive service, along with their international know-how and local cultural wisdom. Selections restaurant will stage an indulgent Iftar daily from sunset to 8.30pm, indoors and outdoors. Break your fast with a lavish buffet at your table with live BBQ station alongside traditional delicacies and international cuisine. Iftar is priced at BD18 per person. Ghabga at Selections will be under the moon from 9pm – 1am daily, for you to savour a combination of vibrant live BBQ stations along with extravagant delicacies served at your table including the chef’s traditional and international curation priced at BD16 per person, or BD21 for the unlimited Shisha Package. A harp player will provide pleasant entertainment through both dining events. Call 17 227 777. A SPECTACULAR SPREAD RAMADAN BY THE BAY Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain will indulge you with a wide selection of delectable Middle Eastern dishes as you break your fast with your family and friends. Savour hot and cold starters, quzi, madhrouba, as well as refreshing juices and kamaradin. Taking the variety even further, thareed and harees are also served to make the meal a wholesome treat. Enjoy this flavoursome Iftar selection prepared from prayer time till 9pm every night. priced at BD18 per person. Spend a pleasant night as you surrender to the sweet flavours of your favourite shisha at the poolside terrace, overlooking the sprawling lagoon. Call 17 460-017. A SATIATING FEAST Salero Restaurant at the The Westin City Centre Bahrain will be serving guests through the month of Ramadan from Monday to Saturday, between noon to 10pm. Diners can choose to select from the à la carte menu, or ask for the Salero Ramadan set menu available from sunset to 10pm for BD20 per person. A special rate of BD17 per person is offered for group bookings of a minimum of 10 persons. The restaurant can seat a maximum of 30 persons and can allow guests above 18 years of age as it is a smoking venue. Call 17 171-000, WhatsApp 33 538-150 or visit www.salerobahrain.com THE SPANISH FLAIR
April 2021 A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month
22 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com unitedkingdomsupplement In April of this year, you will have been in Bahrain for two years. As Ambassador, what do you consider to be your primary focus during the remainder of your assignment in Bahrain? I think the main goal is to enlarge our countries’ collaborations in trade, investment, education, science and technology. These are all areas that we already co-operate in, but we can do a lot more. During the pandemic, we’ve found ways to take this to a higher level such as offering educational programmes such as Masters and PhDs rather than just Undergraduate degrees. What do you consider to have been your most significant achievements in the past two years? I’ve been really impressed with the way that Bahrain has taken advantage of educational and investment opportunities with the UK. From the other side, many UK firms have found a strong base in Bahrain and expanded into areas such as renewable energy, waste energy and green industries. The Embassy teams have helped promote such work as we all have a duty towards combating climate change. I can see our work has had lasting achievements in the Kingdom and tangible benefits have shown themselves over the past two years after many years in gestation. The Kingdom’s Ambassador As part of our ‘UK in Bahrain’ supplement, Kristian Harrison spoke to the British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Roderick Drummond, about his time in the Kingdom so far and his plans for the coming year.
April 2021 23 www.bahrainthismonth.com unitedkingdomsupplement You joined the UK’s Diplomatic Service in 1985. Since then, you have had extensive experience with postings in the Middle East and North Africa region. Can you tell us a little about those? I’ve spent half of my career in the Middle East and Arab world. I learnt Arabic after joining the Foreign Office and I’ve served in Algeria, Jordan, Syria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. I’ve also been in Fiji and Brussels, so I’ve had a varied career! My work depends on what the focuses and targets of the British government are at the time. Are there any unique skills that you have had to call upon or develop during your tenure in Bahrain? What strikes me about the region, which I noticed in Saudi Arabia and even Bahrain, is that despite how the general culture is the same and people wear the same clothes, there are huge differences in how they speak, their customs, what they eat and more. To succeed in this job, you need to learn about these cultures and embed yourself in them. I would urge all upcoming diplomats to keep their ear close to the ground and really immerse themselves in the post. I want to get the best out of our junior colleagues, so when I conduct talks I do emphasise this as a very important facet of the career. I would say getting the best out of many fields is the toughest challenge in the job. So it’s not just trade, investment, transport and such, but all of these combined and more. Of course, with COVID-19, this has made it tougher as we’ve had to conduct meetings online and that naturally means it’s harder to build personal relationships. Despite that, it has reinforced how important it is to have an Embassy in the country to liaise with and build bonds. It would be impossible to do this from London, it would be like cold-calling and progress would be very slow. The Kingdom of Bahrain and the UK have a rich history of trade relations spanning several decades. How do you see the current status of the commercial relationship between the two countries? Relations are really good. We had five years of growth with £1.5 billion worth of trade and this was growing 10 per cent year on year. However, with the pandemic this has obviously taken a hit but as Bahrain comes out of COVID, there is huge potential for it to grow and surpass even what it was before. Recently, talks on commercial and investment cooperation between the United Kingdom and Bahrain took place. What can you tell our readers about this? We’re talking intensively with Bahrain and other GCC countries in a process called the Joint Trade Investment Review, which analyses in detail what the issues restricting trade and investment are. It’s an important phase to discuss which areas need to be covered by official agreements and where problems lie. A UK-GCC arrangement and agreement will obviously be preferable and that’s something we’re working towards. Since COVID, we’ve also facilitated some expert discussions between academics and clinicians. These have helped shape our ideas for the future and I think we’d be in a far better position to tackle a pandemic. How many UK citizens are currently residing in the Kingdom? Which key sectors are they engaged in? We have 5,000 British citizens who are permanent residents in Bahrain, with approximately another 1,000 who come in and out of the country either in the ports as part of the Royal Navy or across the Causeway who work in Saudi. We still have many working in the oil and gas industry, but we’ve seen a large influx into the educational and academic sectors. I think it’s great to see British citizens working in a wide range of fields and supporting the local community here. How have they adapted to the challenges presented by the current pandemic crisis? How has the embassy supported its citizens during this time? We’ve done a lot of messaging, using social media such as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to listen to people and hear their problems. We’ve kept people up to date with travel advice, new Bahraini regulations and signposting them towards changes to work permits and visas. We’ve not had too many problems in terms of people being stranded here as the air link to London has always been open. It’s always been the most important air route in the country as it’s not just a gateway to Europe but North America too. We were also in a position to help facilitate flights from India where people were stranded, with Bahrain Airport helping as a stop-off country to refuel and re-crew the planes and get our citizens home. The Embassy is always in discussion with the UK government about the latest travel advice and we see the final drafts before it goes out, so we’re always ready and on the ball without messaging which we put out on social media. A high-level UK delegation visited last month. Are there any other planned VIP visits likely this year? If so, how will these be managed in the COVID-19 era? Earlier this year, we welcomed the International Minister for Trade Ranil Jayawardena, who was here looking at investment opportunities, and then very recently we had James Cleverly, Minister of State for Middle East and North Africa, here for a joint working group with the Bahraini Government about future collaboration. We are hoping to have further visits in the economic sphere in the coming months and we are looking ahead to a potential UK-GCC summit later in the year which will involve the Prime Ministers from all involved parties. Of course, this depends on travel restrictions in and out of the country at the time but we are confident that towards the second half of the year we will be fine on that front.
24 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Opening of New Pop-Up Restaurant, Vivir The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain launched a new Spanish pop-up restaurant, Vivir, in the presence of invited guests and media members. Vivir, meaning “to live”, is run by Madrid-born Spanish Chef Miguel Martinez, all the way from The Ritz-Carlton Abama in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. On the occasion, General Manager, Bernard de Villèle, said: “Vivir is the fourth among a series of successful culinary events since we opened our first pop-up in 2020, in which the main objective is to keep providing our guests the opportunity to experience different cultures and tastes through a gastronomic journey without ever leaving the island.” Royal Beach Club Tennis Tournament Awards Ceremony Awards Ceremony of Royal Beach Club Tennis Tournament
April 2021 25 www.bahrainthismonth.com unitedkingdomsupplement Throughout its history, Graff has become the world leader for diamonds of rarity, magnitude and distinction. Founded by Laurence Graff OBE in 1960, the company remains a family business with his son, Francois Graff, as CEO and two further family members directing design, merchandising and production. The high jewellery collections and Unique High Jewels are designed and manufactured at Graff’s London atelier, where master craftsmen employ stoneled design techniques to emphasise the beauty of each individual stone. Now, with the powerful new Tribal jewels, Graff brings the art of storytelling to poetic life. Launched on March 20 to align with the Spring Equinox, which ushers in new life and light, the collection speaks to the soul of the eternal beauty of nature. Since time began, mankind has been driven by a tribal instinct to look to the stars and celestial bodies for guidance. The search for meaning in the heavens above has inspired many captivating stories that endure to this day. This desire to make sense of the world around us through the ancient craft of storytelling resonates throughout the Tribal collection. Taking us on a journey from dawn to dusk, sunrise to sunset, it tells a compelling story that is rooted in humanity. Striking, sculptural motifs define the Graff Tribal collection — a contemporary reimagining of universally understood symbols that surround us in nature, recognised across all cultures and civilisations. Included in the collection are a significant number of high jeweller designs, many of which are unique pieces. The artistic process of interpreting these ageless forms through drawings, sculptures and, ultimately, jewels tells the Tribal story through a contemporary visual language, using a medium about which Graff is passionate: exceptional diamonds and gems. The Graff Gateway The hero motif in the Tribal collection, the Graff Gateway is a contemporary vision of timelessness linking the past and the future, the Earth and the stars. Sublimely sculptural, abstract ovals defined by expressive curves resonate with symbolism. New Dawn An explosive sunburst symbolic of life, energy and power, the New Dawn motif is a signature of the Tribal collection. Harnessing the beauty of a sunrise breaking over the horizon, each jewel blazes with the powerful fire of the finest diamonds. Night Moon A perfect half-moon formed of clusters of round and pavé diamonds, Night Moon is symbolic of clarity and reflection. A modern reimagining of an iconic motif, it shines bright in Tribal jewels that enchant with their talismanic beauty. With over 60 stores worldwide, Graff has grown from its foundation in the UK to have a global presence. The Graff Tribal Collection BJC-GRAFF For more information on Graff, get in touch with Bahrain Jewellery Centre by visiting www.bjc.com.bh or call 17 520-053.
26 April 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com unitedkingdomsupplement From humble beginnings, the company has steadily grown to be a multi-faceted group representing a multitude of well-known products in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This consists of food, non-food, food service, pharmaceutical and shoe retailing divisions. “We began our journey with Latif Shoe, a shop in the heart of Manama Souq, back in 1972. It was only in 1984 that we ventured into the FMCG sector with a few dedicated employees and a handful of brands in our portfolio,” says the Chairman of the renowned AlAujan Group, Abdullateef Khalid AlAujan. “Almost five decades later we have grown to become one of the leading FMCG distributors in Bahrain with over 350 employees and a commendable brand portfolio,” he adds. The group’s brand portfolio is dotted with several of the world’s leading and most recognisable food brands such as Anchor, Cadbury, Tang, Nabisco, Lu Tuc, Philadelphia Cheese, Toblerone, Royal, Dreamwhip, ChupaChups, Mentos, Britannia, Twining Tea, Flora, Horlicks, Boost, Nada Water in addition to several regional brands. “In addition, we deal with some of the most prominent British companies such as Glaxo SmithKline, Cadbury, Upfield GEC Ltd., and R. Twining & Co. Ltd,” he states. Widely recognised brands in the group’s non-food brand portfolio includes Sensodyne, Aquafresh, Parodontax, Corega, Bahar Detergents, Fine Paper Products, Dabur, Emami, Enchanteur, Santoor, Pears, Ponds, St. Ives, Pepsodent along with several other regional brands. “Some of these brands are clearly market leaders in their respective categories,” says Mr. Al Aujan. “Although we are approached by many regional and international brands to represent them in Bahrain, we handpick them after a thorough assessment of their products’ quality and reputation aside from current market trends,” he adds, highlighting a strategy that has led to the group’s widespread success. With their wide range of products, the group has grown to be an essential name in the FMCG sector that has undoubtedly contributed to the growth and development of Bahrain’s market over the years. “We have a full-fledged sales and marketing team covering the entire Bahrain market in each and every customer channel, including small customers such as home-based businesses,” he explains. The group has a highly dedicated team which is professionally and ethically committed to the its customers and suppliers. “During this pandemic while the entire market has been reeling under its effect, we have continued to service our customers without any compromise,’ he says, reflecting on the effects that the pandemic has had on the region. Al Aujan Group abides by their tri-fold mission statement which elaborates on the responsibility towards suppliers, customers and employees too. “We consistently aim to satisfy our customers and suppliers with a distinctly superior level of service, which has led to us fostering lasting relationships,” he says. In addition, the group markets and distributes reputable products in order to enhance their image as ‘The House of Quality’. “As a longstanding company, we also empower our employees with necessary knowledge and skills to respond creatively and competitively to help sustain growth,” he says. “We will always remain socially responsible to help and develop the communities we serve in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” he concludes. The House of Quality AUJAN The Abdullateef Khalid AlAujan & Sons Group has had a glowing reputation in Bahrain’s FMCG market for over five decades.
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