Bahrain This Month - May 2023

Arts Culture Clubs Sports Interviews Lifestyle Dining Nightlife bahrainthismonth.com Digital Edition Since 1997 May 2023 | Vol. 27 | Issue 5 | BD2 / SR20 WTM DINING PEOPLE MOTORING UK IN BAHRAIN YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE Coronation of HM King Charles III British Ambassador HE Roderick Drummond Chairperson of The Bahrain Society, Heather Harper A Look at HM King Charles III’s Love for Cars Bo.Sabi’s New Menu Kenyan Ambassador HE Halima Mohamud Bahraini Artist Mariam Dashti Beauty Essentials Spring Fashion In Her Shoes Sara Abdin Abdulla

Elevate your driving experience with the all-new S-Class. Enjoy a 5-year service package, insurance and registration, all included in your purchase. Indulge in the ultimate luxury and comfort with the S-Class. Don't miss out this opportunity to experience the pinnacle of automotive engineering. For more information, call us on 1778 5999. Experience Luxury Like Never Before With The All-New S-Class. Kingdom of Bahrain [email protected] @alhaddadmotors Showroom +973 17785454 WhatsApp +973 32300076

Bahrain British Business Forum years of Bahrain’s best business networking Please scan the QR code for more details and social media links Become a member now on www.bbbforum.org

www.womanthismonth.com May 2023 5 MAY 2023 Bahrain This Month George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman COVER Flamingos in Bahrain 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 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2023 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. This month, history is being made in the United Kingdom with the coronation of HM King Charles III taking place on May 6. So, as a Bahraini citizen of British origin, it is with a great sense of pride that I present the latest edition of Bahrain This Month which features a very special UK in Bahrain supplement to celebrate the historic occasion. The special relationship that exists between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom is now over two centuries old. As we celebrate the dawn of a new era of friendship, we are positive that it shall lead to even stronger ties and associations from a socio-economic and cultural perspective. In this supplement, we speak to prominent individuals who have contributed to the development of this long-standing relationship. In our conversation with British ambassador, HE Roderick Drummond, he discusses the historic event and his ambassadorial tenure which will end later this year. The Chairman of the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF), Khalid Al Zayani, speaks about the organisation’s move to become an official Chamber of Commerce. We also speak to several of Bahrain’s leading businessmen about the role of UK products and services in various sectors including construction, motoring, education and more. While the festivities hold a very special place in our heart this month, be sure to flip through the pages of Bahrain This Month for more exciting content. In our Happenings section, you’ll find the very best of events to attend this month, while our Tablehopping section presents you with some of the most phenomenal dining opportunities at leading hotels across the Kingdom. In our dining feature, you’ll also find our review of our experience at BO.SABI – a fantastic restaurant offering Far East Asian cuisine at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel. In our motoring feature, we take a look at HM King Charles III’s love for cars and extensive collection. In fact, did you know that the British monarch has a vintage Aston Martin that runs on cheese? Now you do! In the Woman This Month segment, we speak to Kenyan Ambassador, HE Halima Mohamud, about the current state of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Republic of Kenya. We also speak to the Bahraini artist, Mariam Dashti, about her unique art and her journey to being an artist. In our Opinion section, Eman Deabil examines the need for all employees (single or otherwise) to receive benefits while Farrah Saville speaks about the lack of positivity surrounding women’s body image and learning to accept ourselves. Ouiam, on the other hand, explores the importance of letting our teenagers make mistakes the right way. You’ll also find the very best of fashion, beauty and more. It’s an issue with plenty for you to look forward to, so needless to say, Bahrain This Month as ever continues to be your guide to a great way of life! THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editor Farah Baig Assistant Editor Kristian Harrison Online Editor Farrah Saville Contributors Ouiam El Hassani, Pria Masson, Eman Deabil Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Art Director Hatem Monem Webmaster Nishad Eapen Production Manager Muna Yousef Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales Director Anuradha Manhas [email protected] Digital Media Executive Amina Syed [email protected] Media Executive Dheeptha Shetty DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Director of Film Danny Sokov Social Media Managers Shilu Babu, Rohit Reghunath

6 May 2023 www.bahrainthismonth.com 12 18 50 72 74 63 MAY HAPPENINGS UK IN BAHRAIN DINING MOTORING COMMERCE ISSUE 309 CONTENTS 64 Motoring News Business Bites How to Evaluate Your Business Idea Building a business is no easy task with several factors needing to be taken into consideration. Pria Masson shares her “cheat sheet” for evaluating your business and making it worthwhile. The Coronation of HM King Charles III Celebrating the dawn of a new era of friendship between the UK and Kingdom of Bahrain. This special feature includes interviews with British ambassador, HE Roderick Drummond, and prominent members of Bahrain’s society. A Far East Asian Treat! We check out Bo.Sabi’s delectable offerings which includes delicious sushi, curries and more. May’s Culinary Happenings Brunch, afternoon tea, a steak buffet, a Mexican feast and more awaits you. Motoring with the Monarchy Kristian Harrison takes a look at the storied history of HM King Charles III’s love for cars and takes a peek into the many garages of the new sovereign. The best of events and entertainment this month. 58 72 74 18 63 64 50 12 58

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery Malaysian Eid Celebration Malaysian Ambassador, HE Shazryll Zahiran and his wife Zuraina Abd Ghani, hosted an Eid Celebration titled ”Malaysia Open House” on the First Day of Eid at their residence in Riffa.

May 2023 www.womanthismonth.com 8 MAY ISSUE 241 CONTENTS Just in Time for Spring We explore the beautiful SS23 collection by Johanna Ortiz that checks a lot of the right boxes for your spring wardrobe. Developing a Greater Liaison We speak to the Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya, Her Excellency Halima A. Mohamud, about the country’s culture and the current state of diplomatic relations. In Vivid Colour Bright colours, abstract shapes and visual storytelling make the unique works of Bahraini artist Mariam Dashti unmistakable. Rejuvenating Beauty Essentials Making use of beauty products is all about accentuating our features and showing ourselves a little TLC. Here are our highlyrecommended essentials to do just that! Let’s Talk About Single Employees Eman Deabil highlights the need to offer personalised benefits to all employees regardless of their marital status. Exploring the North If you plan on visiting the North ofUK, you won’t want to miss out on exploring these. We take a peek into the life of Vice President (Technical) at the Bahrain Society for Training and Development (BSTD), Sara Abdin Abdulla. 82 84 86 88 94 92 97 FASHION BEAUTY OPINION LIFESTYLE In Her Shoes – Sara Abdin Abdulla PEOPLE www.womanthismonth.com womanthismonth rhmbahrain 86 82 97 92 90 94 84 88 Making Mistakes is Fine Ouiam El Hassani shares her tips on how to let our teenagers make mistakes, with emotional growth in mind. 90 PARENTING

Gergaoun The Rotary Clubs of Salmaniya, Manama, Adliya, Seef, Rotaract and the Rotary Satellite Club of Manama Youth, jointly organised a Gergaoun event at Nakheel Centre in Saar on the 14th night of Ramadan. The Rotary clubs invited the Bahrain Paralympic Committee, Dreams Society, Al Kawther Society for Social Care, Janusan Charity Society and Tree of Life Society to participate in the activities. Iftar The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held an iftar with Dar Uco Parents Centre.

happenings www.bahrainthismonth.com/events 12 May 2023 BASK IN HISTORY MAY 6 KING CHARLES III’S CORONATION LIVE BRITISH CLUB BAHRAIN Here’s your opportunity to watch King Charles III’s Coronation and celebrate this moment in history! Live coverage of the coronation will be shown throughout the British Club, one of the world’s oldest expat clubs and a cornerstone social venue in the Kingdom, from 9am to 10pm. You can expect a festive atmosphere and plenty of fantastic food including a big breakfast buffet and coronation menu too. Entry to the event is paid. Follow @britishclubofbahrain. EXPRESS YOURSELF EVERY SATURDAY THINKING, DOING, BEING COURSE AL RIWAQ ART SPACE TIME TO CELEBRATE MAY 6 KING CHARLES III’S CORONATION BRUNCH DILMUN CLUB History is being made this year with the coronation of King Charles III taking place at Westminster Abbey in London. The King and the Queen Consort will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’. During the ceremony, the King will be crowned alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort. You can enjoy all the proceedings and events live at the Dilmun Club! Guests can enjoy a British Roast Brunch in the Marquee with all events live on the big screen. Spaces are expected to be limited, but tables can be booked in advance for BD40. Be sure to follow the club’s social media for updates on timings and costs. Call 17 690-926. MAY HAPPENINGS Painting is a form of expression that is a catalyst for the imagination, one that elicits passion and purpose. Painting for the process, the experience and the perspective it offers. The ‘Thinking, Doing, Being’ course organised by Al Riwaq Art Space will be conducted by Wedad Al Bakr, and invites you to read, analyse, and question. You will engage in conversations surrounding the topics of artistic experiences and processes. In this course, you will be working within a small group, questioning the purpose of your production, widening your creative horizons and looking at various approaches to painting. The course will take place on May 6, May 13, May 20 and May 27 from 11am to 1pm. The course is priced at BD60 with an additional BD20 charge for materials. Follow @alriwaq.

happenings www.bahrainthismonth.com/events 13 May 2023 HAVE A LAUGH MAY 19 RAFI BASTOS COMEDY SHOW THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL MARK YOUR CALENDAR JUNE 2 SELEKTED SOUND RODRIGUEZ JR. LIVE CHOICES, THE ART HOTEL Award winning music producer and live performer Rodriguez Jr. also known as Olivier Mateu will be performing right here in Bahrain on June 2! Whilst some follow trends, others set them. Rodriguez Jr. has spent 20 years in the industry, with his vast experience of all genres of electronic music making him the visionary of melodic house and techno he is today. In April 2020, Olivier followed up the globally supported 2017 album ‘Boabab’ with ‘Blisss’. Inspired by his deep-rooted and wide-ranging influences, it rewards both old and new alike and has received press from DJ Mag, Magnetic Mag and Mixmag, as well as playlisting by Spotify, Apple Music, Berlin’s Radio Eins and Fluz FM and plays on the world’s key tastemaker stations. The album hit#14 in the Beatport Top 100 Releases, and had massive support from DJs including John Digweed, Sasha, Solomun and Jamie Jones. Rodriguez Jr. will be supported by none other than Zone+ and Mesut Kutbay. Early bird tickets are available at BD15, pre-sale tickets at BD20 and general tickets at BD30. Doors open at 7pm. Call 35 091-542. GET YOUR GROOVE ON ALL THROUGH MAY INTRODUCING MANIA THE K HOTEL SWEET BEATS MAY 11 DJ DA CANDY LIVE RETRO LOUNGE, JUFFAIR There’s nothing quite as exciting as some good live music. This month, The K Hotel is introducing its new resident band MANIA, all the way from the UK. MANIA consists of the trio Sophie, Joe and Nathan. Not only has Sophie got stunning vocals but she has a beautiful stage presence that captures your attention. She has a lot of experience in performing in her native Ireland. On the piano is the phenomenal Joe, who not only plays the keys but also plays bass and sings lead vocals. His musical talent has taken him all around the world including Dubai, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi to name a few. On the guitar, we’ve got Nathan who plays bass and keys, and can sing too! The fantastic Nathan is talented, charming and truly engaging. The band performs from Monday to Thursday and on Saturday from 9.30pm onwards at The K Tracks Lounge and on Friday during brunch from noon at KOLORS Restaurant. Call 17 360-000. World Class DJ Da Candy will be spinning some sick beats at Juffair’s Retro Lounge for a night you don’t want to miss. Get ready for a lively night filled with good music, bright lights and non-stop dancing. Ladies enter for free before 11pm. Call 66 699-272. Are you ready to laugh until your sides hurt? Well Rafi Bastos is ready to do just that with his stand-up comedy show which will be taking place right here in Manama. Rafi Bastos is a 6’7” tall Brazilian comedian with an accent like Dracula and a rapidly growing social media presence of stand-up clips in English. Many of Rafi’s super-viral stand-up clips come from nightly performances at the prestigious Comedy Cellar. Rafi’s videos with stage performances, music videos, interviews and sketches have now more than 370 million views on his Youtube channel alone. Rafi’s quick-witted observational humour, intelligence, and worldly view have made him a hit online and the first Brazilian comedian to become a regular at the most renowned comedy clubs globally, including COMEDY CELLAR in New York, LAUGH FACTORY, and THE HOLLYWOOD IMPROV in California. Among his many credits, Rafi has three comedy specials on Netflix, so there’s no doubt – he’s funny. Doors open at 7.30pm. Follow @hollywoodpopupcomedy for tickets and more information. Call 17 531-666.

bystander 14 May 2023 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery BBBF Lunch BBBF held its Annual General Meeting and Business Networking Lunch at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Music Festival St Christopher’s School held its St Chris Music Festival 2023.

zul, the newest addition to Bahrain's dining scene, is excited to announce the opening of its new beach bar and restaurant, where guests can indulge in world-class dining while taking in stunning beach views. As one of the top beach bars and restaurants in Bahrain, Azul promises an unparalleled experience of fine dining, breath-taking beach views, and exceptional service. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach or indulge in delectable cuisines from all over. We got you covered! everything you need for the ultimate beach day. The Ultimate Beach Bar and Restaurant in Bahrain for Fine Dining, Beach Views, and Unmatched Hospitality. Nestled on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Azul is an idyllic destination that boasts stunning beach views that provide a stunning backdrop for the ultimate dining experience. Our beach bar and restaurant are designed to offer guests an ambiance that is both sophisticated and relaxed, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner, family gathering, or corporate event. Azul Beach can accommodate more than 400 people. including 200 people in shaded seats, terrace, and beds, with 75 sunbeds and 7 private cabins available on the beach. And fully equipped bar area with 30 tables. Azul draws inspiration from Spain’s rich history and culture, and it adds a unique element to the restaurant’s overall aesthetic. With its intricate details and warm, inviting atmosphere. We are excited to offer our guests a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where they can relax and rejuvenate in our stunning surroundings. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate summer spot, look no further than Azul Restaurant & Beach in Bahrain. We invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience of relaxation, extravagance and world-class dining. Email: [email protected] Contact Number: +973-3336-6659 Address: Azul beach Bahrain, Manama www.instagram.com/azulbeachbahrain VALTER PIERGIOVANNI AZUL BEACH RESTAURANT Executive Chef AZUL BEACH BAHRAIN Escape to Paradise For more information or reservations, contact us directly. Plus, for those who enjoy fine dining, Azul offers a mouthwatering selection of gourmet cuisine, carefully crafted by our experienced chef. Azul also features a beach bar that serves refreshing cocktails, vines, and spirits. Our expert bartenders create unique and innovative drinks that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. With a team of experienced servers and bartenders, we're committed to providing our guests with an experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Almoayyed Ghabga In honour of Jean-François Lesage, who was visiting Bahrain from Paris, Mohamed Almoayyed held a ghabga. ACME Ghabga ACME hosted a ghabga to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan at Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

XLR8 Ramadan Night Run XLR8 Ramadan Night Run was held at Lost Paradise of Dilmun. May 2023 17 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery LPODwaterpark LPODwaterpark.com +973 1784 5100 +973 6666 0038

DIPLOMATIC EXCELLENCE As part of Bahrain This Month’s special ‘UK in Bahrain’ feature to celebrate the coronation of HM King Charles III, we sat down with the British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Roderick Drummond, to discuss this historic event and the state of his current ambassadorial term which will end later this year. What are your priorities as the British Ambassador to Bahrain? I believe that I have three significant baskets in which I gather my goals. The first is prosperity; working together on shared relations between Britain and Bahrain. The others are shared security between the two nations and looking after British nationals and the community here. We have a very diverse collaboration with Bahrain and things really are in a very positive space at the moment. How do you see the current state of relations between the United Kingdom and Bahrain, and what steps are being taken to enhance these relations further? We have had some very good high level visits recently, such as the visit of the UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, for the Manama Dialogue, with more planned in the next couple of months. Chief of these is His Majesty King Hamad attending the coronation of HM King Charles III in early May, for which we’ll also be holding a big celebration here in Bahrain. So, it's going to be a really positive last few months for me in the Kingdom. King Charles III has visited Bahrain on a number of occasions and has a strong personal relationship with the Kingdom’s top leadership. How do you think this familiarity can contribute to the relationship between the two Kingdoms, which stretches back 209 years? It's absolutely at the heart of it. I'm very privileged to be part of some of the exchanges between the royal families. There’s a real deep friendship between both sides and shared interests in so many different fields, whether that's sporting or charitable work or environmental consciousness. There's a lot of private discussion and collaboration, which I think is very positive and forward-looking. It is interwoven with our 209-year relationship, and it helps make it warmer and stronger. Do you have a message for our readers on the occasion of the historic coronation of King Charles III? The transfer of office has happened already, automatically upon the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. However, the symbolism of a coronation is important in the life of any nation because it then enables the monarch to show the values and the causes that are www.bahrainthismonth.com 18 May 2023 UK in Bahrain

important to them. Many of the events which will unfold over the weekend of the coronation will highlight areas that His Majesty is engaged in, such as the environment, small island developing states and the Commonwealth. I think it may surprise people with how modern and 21 st Century-focused it is rather than just pageantry. How many British nationals are currently residing in Bahrain? What are some of the key industries that they are involved in? There are approximately four to five thousand, which is a mixture of those who are here permanently and those who are semi-permanent working across the Eastern Province. They are employed in most professional fields you can imagine, whether that’s education, accountancy, law, medicine, engineering, architecture and more. What are the current trade figures between Bahrain and the UK? How do you believe these figures can further be enhanced? We’re in a really positive trajectory. In my time here alone, trade in terms of goods and services in both directions has doubled to a value of GBP2.6 billion. That exemplifies the shared prosperity goals that we have with Bahrain. Britain has interest in the huge infrastructure projects that are due to happen soon, such as the Bahrain Metro and the future Causeway, whilst education links are expanding rapidly with new schools and university associations. Furthermore, science and technology is going to be a major area of growth as Bahrain embraces its net zero goals and starts work on decarbonisation and transitioning to greener energy use in Bahrain over the coming decades, an area in which British firms have strong expertise. How has Brexit impacted the UK's relationship with Bahrain and the wider Gulf region? It has actually been a net benefit here in Bahrain. It has enabled us to just push on with our bilateral collaboration and we are pressing ahead with a free trade agreement. Bahrain is playing a very positive role in that and recently facilitated three rounds of negotiations with the GCC over the last six months, which are making real progress. A progressive deal will open up even more avenues for trade and investment in both directions, particularly opportunities for Bahraini businesses in the UK and vice-versa. What initiatives have been undertaken to promote cultural exchange between the two countries? I have witnessed numerous British orchestras, jazz bands and theatre groups coming here, whilst Bahrainis have performed in the UK too. One of the real joys for me here is that Bahrain is a very cultural place. It's somewhere that really appreciates other cultures whilst maintaining a very rich culture itself. How do you view the UK’s role in regional security and stability? We have a very strong security partnership with Bahrain, most obviously in areas including the Royal Navy support facility here, which is fantastic and enables us to work with partners and covert operations across this whole region. Of course, we do this in partnership with all of the Gulf navies and our American cousins. Every time you see a shipment of narcotics seized on the high seas, or a merchant ship is supported, that is part of the working together that comes through Bahrain. We also work very closely on cybersecurity and helping improve the resilience of the IT infrastructure in Bahrain, which is constantly under threat. Both countries trust each other, and with this security partnership we are able to then move forward in areas such as Visa arrangements. Your tenure in Bahrain will end later this year. Could you summarise your experience in Bahrain for us? Both my wife, Yasmin, and I have really enjoyed our time here, which was blighted only by the wretched COVID-19 virus, which curtailed things for a period. Nonetheless, it has been an absolute joy to be here as ambassador. It's a place that really takes you to its heart very quickly and we felt at home almost instantly. We have made a lot of friends who I hope will be friends for life and have never felt any barriers. People have been so kind and helped us through any difficulties and answered all questions we may have had. I commend the lucky man who is going to take over from me because I am sure he will have a lot of fun and contribute a lot to this important role. It is truly one of the best jobs I can imagine, so thank you Bahrain for having us! www.bahrainthismonth.com 19 May 2023 UK in Bahrain Scan for the filmed interview

www.bahrainthismonth.com 20 May 2023 UK in Bahrain The history between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom has intertwined diplomatically and culturally since the two kingdoms formally began relations more than 200 years ago. With the coronation of HM King Charles III, the two Kingdoms are sure to enjoy a new era of friendship. In 1816, Bahrain and the United Kingdom reached a preliminary agreement to strengthen their alliance and protect their joint interests. The agreement became official in 1820, when the two sides signed the General Maritime Treaty. Since then, bilateral relations have gone from strength to strength. The special status of the long-standing Bahraini-British ties is reflected in the depth of distinguished relations of friendship and respect between the two Royal Families. In fact, HM King Hamad is set to attend HM King Charles III’s coronation this month, continuing a strong relationship which began when the late Queen Elizabeth II paid her first official visit to Bahrain in 1979 during the era of HRH the late Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. In 2016, the then Prince Charles along with the Duchess of Cornwall, now Camilla, Queen Consort, visited Bahrain to CROWNING GLORY

www.bahrainthismonth.com 21 May 2023 UK in Bahrain celebrate the 200th anniversary of its relations with the UK. Meanwhile, King Hamad frequently visits Britain, as recently as 2022, where he attended the international Royal Windsor Horse Show and meetings to strengthen bilateral relations. The kindred spirit between the two nations is not just shared diplomatically, but in many other ways. From education and healthcare to culture and business, it is a partnership that will continue to nurture and grow for many years to follow. Bahrain This Month is proud to present its UK in Bahrain supplement, featuring numerous photographs detailing the history between the two kingdoms, interviews from important figures with a presence in both countries, and a look ahead to the historic coronation this month. Cheers!

www.bahrainthismonth.com 22 May 2023 Alongside accumulating more than 50 years of international business acumen in fields such as banking, motoring, manufacturing and more, one of Mr. Zayani’s crowning achievements is growing the BBBF from its beginnings as a social club of 16 members in 1995 to a fully-recognised Chamber of Commerce encompassing around 500 members. “Previously, the BBBF was regulated by the rules of the Ministry of Social Affairs as a social club,” he explains. “In reality, it was so much more than that, conducting high-level meetings with people in government, both in Bahrain and the UK. Becoming an official branch of The British Chamber will give us access to all its activities in the UK, introduce us to its members, partners and associates, while opening its business database to us. This, in turn, will benefit business in both Bahrain and the UK.” “The UK’s recent exit from the European Commission has substantially boosted trade relations between Britain and Bahrain, by removing EC levies on Bahraini aluminium and petrochemical exports to the UK. We can now cash in freely on an existing goodwill between our two kingdoms.” It is a timely reminder of the excellent relations between the two countries just as His Majesty King Hamad prepares to attend the coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey this month. Mr. Zayani has met the new monarch on numerous occasions, both socially and on business, in the UK and in Bahrain when he was the Prince of Wales. “It is an absolute honour to have made acquaintances with HM King Charles III. I regularly reminisce having dinners with him at St. James’s Palace, Windsor Castle and other locations and hold such events as my most cherished memories.” “I found him a very knowledgeable and wellread person, in business, Arab culture and Islam. I was amazed! “My favourite anecdote with him was over an intimate dinner in London, just four of us, at the private residence of Nemir Kirdar, CEO of Investcorp Bank. He queried me on why Arab architecture and calligraphy has not developed in centuries since Andalusian Arab rule in Spain. He believed that it needed revising. He asked us if we would be willing to co-invest with his Prince’s Foundation into a college, teaching postgraduate studies in these fields and promising to match every pound we deliver. We did and that was how the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts started and very successfully runs to this day, generating numerous graduates from the UK, the Arab world and far beyond, amongst whom is my niece, who finished her Master’s there! “I wish to congratulate His Majesty King Charles III on this truly momentous occasion. I strongly believe that he will be a great successor to Queen Elizabeth II, especially as he has had so long to learn!” FTRoreasl dat eteir oi nn gs As the Chairman of the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF), Khalid Al Zayani is one of the most important figures in relations between the Kingdom and the UK. With the organisation set to become an official Chamber of Commerce as well as the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III this month, he shares his thoughts about these momentous occasions. UK in Bahrain

UK in Bahrain CHANNELING HER LOVE FOR BAHRAIN In the early nineties Heather Harper was one of the most prominent members of Bahrain’s media. As one of the pioneers of English-language television programming in the country; writing, producing and presenting for Channel 55 television, she recently became Chairman of The Bahrain Society based in the UK. We caught up with her this month on her recent visit with 36 members of The Bahrain Society to discuss her decades old connection with Bahrain. Mrs. Harper first came to Bahrain in 1980 with her husband, an innovator in the early days of solar power, to attend an energy exhibition. Two years later, she saw an article in a local newspaper mentioning that Bahrain Television was going to open an Englishspeaking station, called Channel 55. “I contacted them because my background was in advertising, producing television commercials,” she remembers. “They welcomed me with open arms and it was an amazing beginning. Then I started writing, producing and presenting a magazine programme whereby I interviewed hundreds of people on the island. “When I left Bahrain in the early 1990s, I had heard about The Bahrain Society, which was set up as a friendship society to promote relations between the UK and Bahrain for British expats who had lived or worked here. “It’s a purely social society, with no political aims or ambitions, and has a particularly close relationship with the Bahrain Embassy in London. Membership currently stands at approximately 250 members and my aim is to grow this higher, boost ties between former Bahrain residents, and enable opportunities to reconnect as much as I can. Furthermore, we have supported a number of cultural and charitable events that have taken place in London supporting Bahraini students studying at British academic institutions.” Mrs. Harper holds many fond memories of her time in Bahrain. With such a significant career, it was difficult to pick her favourite, but she did settle on one factor immediately, the weather! “Being back in the UK, you do miss it. Waking up in the morning to those blue skies, it’s easy to take it for granted when it’s every day! In all seriousness, it’s the way of life and the friendships that I really miss. I don›t think it›s so easy to make friendships and keep them over a long period, but Bahrain makes it so much easier. It›s a very open society, a very cosmopolitan mix of cultures, and everybody knows everybody. In the UK, unlike Bahrain, you could live on a street and never interact with any of your neighbours. “When I worked for Channel 55 it was really interesting because I was open to all sorts of different nationalities and cultures. We celebrated everybody›s national days, bouncing between receptions and meeting totally different types of people, often on the same day. It really broadened my horizons.” The Bahrain Society prides itself on providing Bahraini hospitality to members, with a number of different functions throughout the year. There is a gala dinner and summer party and many Speaker events every year, with the main aim of spreading the word of Bahrain and its way of life. “It’s a way of networking, but more like social networking rather than business,” Ms. Harper explains. “Of course, we do emphasise how easy it is to run businesses in the Kingdom, and occasionally deconstructing misconceptions and answering questions about what it’s like to live and work in the Middle East. “One of the main goals I›d like to achieve in my role is to branch out a little bit further from London as our members come from all over. For instance, there are a lot of ‘Bahraini’ British expats who live in Spain and retired to other parts of Europe. Ultimately, we are all what I like to call ‘global citizens’, with one shared of love of this beautiful island and its people,” she concludes. To find out more about the Bahrain Society visit bahrainsociety.uk. www.bahrainthismonth.com 23 May 2023

www.bahrainthismonth.com 24 May 2023 UK in Bahrain GENERATIONAL TIES On the occasion of the coronation of King Charles III, Nasser Al Arayedh, the Chairman of Al Arayedh Group Holding reflects on the renowned business family’s close ties with the UK. The Kingdom of Bahrain is home to several families that are engaged in various business sectors. Among them is the Al Arayedh family, which is known for their enterprising efforts across generations that have made a lasting impact. Over time, the family has grown and diversified their activities with investments in countries across borders, including the UK. “Our history with the UK goes a long way with members of our family not only investing and trading with businesses based in the UK, but pursuing their education in the Kingdom too. In fact, it started with my grandfather, the honourable Mansoor Al Arayedh, who used to deal with jewellers in the UK. He would be entrusted with providing them with pearls and dealt with them for diamonds and other precious stones settings for high-end jewellery,” narrates Chairman of Al Arayedh Group Holding, Nasser Al Arayedh. His father, Mohamed Jameel Al Arayedh, pursued his education at Millfield School in the UK in 1948. “Given his pioneering nature and business roots, he then imported materials from the UK and established in Bahrain what would be the first fresh dairy factory in the Arabian Gulf region,” he says. As for Mr. Nasser Al Arayedh, who also did his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the UK, his business started with the import of cleaning chemicals for commercial and industrial use, followed by the establishment of a training centre with UK-certified courses. “Currently our connection with the UK is through investments for which we have representatives in London who are responsible for long-term strategies,” he says. The family’s various businesses have now been merged under the banner of Al Arayedh Group Holding (AAGH), which was officially formed in 2008. “We operate in several sectors including trade and investments, real estate and travel and tourism. Hence, it took us five years to structure all these family assets under this wing which manages them collectively,” he explains. “By doing so, we have been able to examine our assets in order to diversify and increase our investments.” The company’s board consists of Mr. Al Arayedh, Deputy Chairman Maryam Al Arayedh and Director Jehan Al Arayedh, in addition to three other executives who are selected on a periodical basis. “Our primary areas of business are now real estate and investment, both local and international,” he states. Sharing his thoughts on the UK’s business sector, he concludes: “The United Kingdom has long been known for their products, which may have changed over time but are known for their exceptional quality – a key reason for which they have maintained their global position. Furthermore, there’s no denying that the country is also a leader in the education sector. It is a rule of law for us to invest in countries where there is not only investment protection, but unique and sought-after brands. As our business continues to grow in the years to come, I look forward to continuing our dealings with the Kingdom and wish them the very best under the rule of King Charles III.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com 25 May 2023 UK in Bahrain With palatial chandeliers, contemporary lamps and everything in between, Al Ansari Lighting has been the prime choice in Bahrain’s lighting industry for over 50 years. Farah Baig speaks to Al-Ansari Group Chairman, Abduljalil A.K. Ahmed Al-Ansari, about the company’s success, its portfolio of UK brands and more. Al Ansari Group is a long-time member of the Bahrain British Business Forum and also partakes in activities at the British Club. “We first established an agreement to distribute British products in Bahrain in 1964 following the signing of an agreement in Cardiff, Wales. British products are known for their durability and reliability, and meet required safety standards. Furthermore, these products are interesting to our customers in terms of latest designs and colours, and are always upgraded to suit market requirements,” he says. “McIntosh Furniture located in Kirkcaldy, Scotland was another collaborative company which was famous for its teak dining and living room furniture designed by Tom Robertson in 1970. The company always used the best Scottish craftsmanship to create beautiful designs,” he adds. This was in addition to Stanley Wire Ltd., a Yorkshire-based company specialising in the manufacture of all forms of bright and black annealed wire. “They used the highest quality steel, which was manufactured into a flawless, high-quality wire product which we then used at our local mattress factory in Bahrain,” he explains. “Last but not the least, we collaborated with Mikel Carpet Factory in Edinburgh, Scotland.” Notably, Al-Ansari Lighting Company has signed agreements to handle major projects for the Royal Court, palaces, mosques, hotels and private villas too. The company has undeniably grown to be renowned for importing top-quality products that are capable of bringing clients’ designs to life. “The quality of our products, aftersales support and service, and representation of brands as their local agent has led Al-Ansari Lighting Company to be a leader in the industry. We have a fully dedicated team which is committed to serve our clientele, and will always ensure to go the extra mile to make our customers happy,” he concludes. BEING AN INDUSTRY LEADER Al-Ansari Group Chairman, Abduljalil A.K. Ahmed Al-Ansari (centre), with Richard Bird (left) and Keith Evans (right) of Evans Contract Furnishers Ltd., in Wales, UK. Al Ansari Group has had a storied history of over 100 years having been established in the year 1904 when the late Abdul Karim Ahmed Al-Ansari established his family business with a small shop in the old town of Muharraq in Bahrain. At the time, the business sold products ranging from groceries to hardware, laying a sound foundation for a business that was to grow and diversify. Al-Ansari Industries, formerly known as The Bahrain Bedding Factory, was set up with the know-how shared by the famous Silentnight Mattresses, UK – a company that was owned by Tom and Joan Clarke which started in 1946 as Clarke’s Mattresses Ltd. The group now trades in lighting fittings, accessories, switches, sockets, branded fashion goods (partner of Gucci in Bahrain), and has a significant presence in the real estate sector. In 1970, Al-Ansari Lighting Company was established in Bahrain. “We consider ourselves the pioneer in the lighting field, having served the local market, GCC and beyond for over 50 years. It has always been our objective to not only be the undisputed leader in the field of lighting, but also to establish an unmatched reputation for reliability and friendly service,” explains Al-Ansari Group Chairman, Abduljalil A.K. Ahmed Al-Ansari. Today, Al-Ansari Lighting Company offers several outstanding products with innovative designs from renowned brands. This includes German brands - Bega, Glashutte Limburg and Staff Zumtobel, Italian brands - Targetti Spa, Duralamp and Surya Srl, and UK brands - R.Hamilton Ltd., IBL, ACDC, Orbik and Chelsom Lighting.

www.bahrainthismonth.com 26 May 2023 For over half a century, the British brand Graff has operated at the very pinnacle of the high jewellery industry. At Bahrain Jewellery Centre, we discover what makes Graff special, and its latest collections. Founded by Laurence Graff OBE in 1960, Graff remains a family business with Francois Graff (son of Laurence) as CEO and two further family members directing design, merchandising and production. With over 60 stores worldwide, Graff has ambitiously grown from its foundation in the UK to achieve a global presence. Throughout its rich history, Graff has become the world leader for diamonds of rarity, magnitude and distinction. Their unique high jewels are designed and manufactured at their London atelier, where their master craftsmen employ stone-led design techniques to emphasise the beauty of each individual stone. LUXURY AT ITS FINEST LAURENCE GRAFF SIGNATURE COLLECTION This collection features a striking array of everyday jewels that celebrate the hypnotic beauty of a diamond’s facets and Laurence Graff’s legacy for cutting and polishing the world’s most beautiful stones. Named after the founder of the House, the collection is inspired by Mr. Graff’s dedication to seeking out the rarest and finest diamonds over the last 60 years, by showcasing the sculptural silhouette of the diamond itself. Featuring a range of scintillating band-style rings, delicate necklaces and bracelets, stud earrings and contemporary bangles, each design showcases a graphic and modern faceted edge. UK in Bahrain Bold and Vibrant Bands Stylish rings crafted in two widths are available in white, yellow or rose gold, designed to be worn together in graphic combinations of contrasting tones. Sleek, all-metal versions are complemented by pavé diamond-set designs, adorning each facet with exceptional brilliance. The bands are also available in versions set with vibrant pink and yellow diamonds – rarified jewels celebrated for their precious scarcity. Each band is engraved with the GRAFF logo upon the interior of the shank, a discreet reminder of the rings’ exceptional provenance and a signature touch.

www.bahrainthismonth.com 27 May 2023 UK in Bahrain Sculptural Allure Each piece showcases a sculptural bezel setting, handcrafted with angular, architectural facets, and elegantly encases a scintillating solitaire diamond. Stones range up to 1.5 carats and are each framed by the Laurence Graff Signature setting – a modern companion to the timeless and classic round diamond. Contemporary Classics These signature motifs are suspended on delicate white gold chains for necklace and bracelet designs, and make for bold and eye-catching stud earrings. A semiflexible bangle set with two scintillating solitaires showcases Graff’s diamond setting expertise, as a delicate stream of diamonds leads the eye towards the hero stones, each embraced by their faceted halo. GRAFF MASTERS THE ART OF JEWELLERY LAYERING Graff’s new yellow and rose gold jewels offer more ways to wear two of their much-loved motifs. In this new age of layering and stacking, where mixing and matching styles and combining metals is encouraged, Graff is expanding two of its collections with designs in yellow and rose gold. Previously available in diamonds and white gold only, the new pendants and earrings present new ways to wear two iconic design motifs for the house. An enduring influence on Graff, the butterfly has inspired a whole universe of jewels, including the Butterfly Silhouette collection. Capturing the perfect symmetry of a butterfly as it flits elegantly through the air upon fluttering wings, the collection is infused with an uplifting energy and delicate beauty. New additions to the collection trace the butterfly’s iconic spread-wing silhouette in 18 carat yellow and rose gold. True to nature, each wing is delicately angled for a beautiful sense of three-dimensionality. Upon the largest of the two gold pendants, the wings are outlined in pavé diamonds, breathing fresh life into this signature. Graff motif Floral silhouettes, too, have long inspired Graff’s designers, who closely study the petals and forms of different blooms to create elegant interpretations of nature. A joyful tribute to the English Garden, the Wild Flower collection revisits this theme with carefree charm and contemporary spirit. Distinct yet complementary, new Wild Flower pendants and earrings in 18 carat yellow and rose gold bloom along the collarbone and upon the ears. Each golden petal is uniquely handcrafted to burst with life, with the petals edged in diamonds on the larger pendant. Floral silhouettes, too, have long inspired Graff’s designers, who closely study the petals and forms of different blooms to create elegant interpretations of nature. A joyful tribute to the English Garden, the Wild Flower collection revisits this theme with carefree charm and a contemporary spirit.

UK in Bahrain SERVING THE BRITISH COMMUNITY The British Club of Bahrain is one of the world’s oldest expat clubs and boasts a multicultural membership and family-friendly atmosphere. Kristian Harrison spoke to the club’s Chairman, Chris Woodrow, ahead of King Charles III’s coronation and discussed the club’s plans for the historic occasion and his own personal honour bestowed upon him by the new monarch. Founded in 1935 in the heart of Um Al Hassam, the club comprises more than 1,500 members and 60 nationalities. Founded by Sir Charles Belgrave, one of the pioneers of Bahraini-British relations, it has a long and distinguished history in the Kingdom. The club delivers on its motto: ‘Your home away from home,’ with its variety of dining outlets, tennis and squash courts, a gym, swimming pool, snooker room, library and more. The club’s garden area with a giant screen and twice-weekly live music fosters a friendly atmosphere which caters for all ages. Mr. Woodrow has been in Bahrain for 17 years and is the COO of a large development company based in Amwaj Islands, managing a portfolio of luxury residential properties, hotels, hospitals and mixed-use developments. He has been part of the British Club Executive Committee for 13 years, initially as a House Member before moving on to the position of Deputy Chairman in his third year. He is now in his ninth year as Chairman, the longest-serving in history. For his meritorious service to the British community in Bahrain during his historic voluntary tenure, he was awarded the British Empire Medal on King Charles III’s International New Year’s Honours list. “I feel extremely humbled and proud to have been awarded the British Empire Medal,” he says. “When the British Ambassador called me to tell me, I was stuck for words, which is pretty unusual for me! “This wouldn’t have been possible without the great team at the British Club, the staff really go above and beyond to make everybody feel welcome and part of the family. “The British Club is a very special place, very dear to me, being a member for so long and having the privilege of chairing a club in such a fantastic country has been an absolute pleasure. I’ve met many life-long friends at the British Club and no doubt will meet more in the coming years. “Whilst the British Club is a non-profit organisation, we still need to generate profits for the upkeep of the club and to continually strive to improve the facilities for our members and guests, so it’s a big responsibility for the Executive Committee and our staff. “I’ve been here as Chairman through the most financially successful years at the club, but also through the very worst times with COVID-19, where with careful management, the club successfully navigated some pretty challenging times. Many will not be aware, but the British Club and its many sections have donated generously to Bahrain-based charities over the years, which has been a great privilege for me to have been involved in. To celebrate the historic coronation on May 6, the club will be hosting a Coronation Street Party on May 5, which is open to all and will feature inflatables in the pool, a bake-off challenge, family games, a photo booth, British food menu and live entertainment. The following day, there will be full coverage of the coronation from 9am, with a British breakfast buffet and themed afternoon menu. “From the feedback the club is getting, there is a real buzz in the air about the coronation,” Mr Woodrow believes. “This is an event that very, very few people have experienced before and the club will be fully branded and sure to generate an amazing atmosphere!” www.bahrainthismonth.com 28 May 2023

bahrainthismonth.com

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==