charm and history

YOUR FREE COPY
Volume 1 - 2007
A land of
charm and history
Oman's
Roundabouts
20
Reclaiming
lost musical
legacy
26
Give your
children
a book
30
Make
meetings
effective
36
1
www.omanair.aero
Marhaba
Dear Passenger,
Winds of Change
Not long ago, air travel in Oman was characterised by a limited number of connections. Oman Air’s arrival in 1993, with
a single 737-300 airplane that connected Muscat and Salalah, changed the scene dramatically. Today, Oman’s national
carrier connects 20 destinations around the world, including two gateways in the Sultanate. It has truly supplemented
the development of tourism in Oman. Little wonder, Oman is emerging as a premier tourist destination across the
Middle East.
It is the passengers who have scripted Oman Air’s success story in 2006. We wholeheartedly express our sincere
thanks to all the passengers who travelled with Oman Air. And we hope to carry forward Oman Air’s commitment to
better service this year too.
Keeping pace with time and technology, Wings of Oman, buoyed by its remarkable success, has incorporated some
changes beginning with the first issue of the year 2007. Besides the size enhancement, the issue has new columns like
International events and general information on Oman. The section ‘International events’ will serve as a useful guide to
our readers to plan out their itinerary to fairs and exhibitions well in advance while the ‘general information on Oman’
will help those coming to Oman for the first time. We have also included new sections that focus on technology, sports
and other interesting day to day issues.
This compendium takes you to Jordan, a place where heritage abounds. Oman Air recently started its service to
Amman, Jordan’s fabulous capital.
Oman’s traffic roundabouts and junctions are the most elaborate and decorative you will ever see. Each one of them
is adorned with an artistic creation: maybe a dhow, or a giant coffee-pot. This is a country where art is an intrinsic part
of life and the issue unfolds these artistic objects with colourful pictures.
This issue also sees the reclamation of the lost legacy of the Oud, an Arabic musical instrument.
The section on business, health, trivia, etc has interesting features which will widen your knowledge base. We also
seek suggestions from our esteemed readers to help improve the magazine further.
Have a pleasurable flight with friends.
Ziad Karim Al Haremi
Chief Executive Officer
3
Contents
12
Cover Story
A land of charm and history
If ever there is a land that has yoked
stunning history with equally stunning
landscapes and drawn them forward
with a sprightly march of modernity,
then it is Jordan
20
20
Oman’s Roundabouts
Oman’s roundabouts will walk
away with the cake
26
26
Reclaiming lost musical legacy
Oud, unlike many other stringed
instruments, allows the player to be more
expressive by using slides and vibrato
30
Give your children a book
Books open up a world of fantasy,
interaction, knowledge, creativity
and diversity
4
30
Contents
32
32
ECG: myths and facts
The ECG is an indispensable tool
but there are many wrong ideas
about its use
36
36
Make meetings effective
A meeting is only effective when it
achieves its objectives in minimum time
to the satisfaction of the participants
40
40
Fun Corner
Interesting bits of information
42
42
Tech Capsule
A holiday gift guide for those on the go
Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by:
Corporate Communications & Media Department - Oman Air
P.O. Box: 58, Seeb Airport, Postal Code 111,
Seeb International Airport, Sultanate of Oman
Tel: +968 24519616, Fax: +968 24510771
E-mail: wings@omanair.aero
Website: www.omanair.aero
For Oman advertising enquiries contact:
Publishers:
National Publishing And Advertising LLC (NPA)
P.O. Box: 3112, P.C. 112, Ruwi
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Tel: +968 24793098, Fax: +968 24708445
E-mail: advertising@npaoman.com
Website: www.npaoman.com
6
For regional/international advertising enquiries contact:
Media Score Services
Dubai Media City,
P.O. Box 502023, Dubai, UAE.
Tel: +971 4 3908030,
Fax: +971 4 3908031
E-mail: kazansc@cyberia.com.lb
The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions
contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views
contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.
All copyrights are reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced
without our written permission.
News
Oman Air
inaugurates
its new sector to
Amman
The airline is proud to add Amman to its growing network.
The new sector will prop up the two countries' collaboration
in the aviation field, and Oman Air is delighted to contribute
in making Amman a tourist destination, as passengers will
exchange excursions, and enjoy each others authentic
hospitality. The expansion of the Oman Air network will not
in any way reflect negatively on our high-quality services,
Mr. Ziad Al Haremi, Oman Air's CEO said.
He added, the inauguration of this sector between Oman
and Jordan through Seeb Airport will play an active role in
Oman Air inaugurated its first flight on the new sector
strengthening the historical relationship between the two
Muscat - Amman on 11th December, 2006. The Company’s
brotherly countries Oman and Jordan. It will also assist in
official delegation was headed by the Chairman, H.E. Said bin
supporting the economic cooperation opportunities especially
Hamdoon Al Harthy and Mr. Ziad bin Karim Al Haremi - Chief
within the commerce and tourism sectors. Oman has got great
Executive Officer, in addition to a number of the company’s
cultural, historical and traditional potentials. The government
officials. Various media representatives accompanied the
undergoes immense endeavours to buttress the tourism
delegation for comprehensive coverage of the happening, as
sector, which is a significant added income resource, and an
also The Jazz Band of The Royal Omani Guards.
indicator of the nation’s progress in different spheres.
The Royal Omani Guards' Jazz Band, comprising 32
Oman Air is operating 3 non-stop weekly flights on Saturday,
members enthralled the audience in Jordan, with its musical
Monday and Wednesday. This is a move towards the company’s
prowess in jazz as well as contemporary music. In addition
strategy to add more destinations in the Middle East with the aim
to the classic Arabic and Omani renditions, the Royal Omani
of strengthening mutual cooperation and travel opportunities
Guards' Jazz Band excelled in its universal musical repertoires,
with nations worldwide, in addition to promoting tourism and
thereby making Oman Air's inaugural flight to Amman an
upholding the outstanding relationship shared between the
absolute success.
two brotherly countries.
8
News
With
Oman Air’s
Holidays, Fly ‘n’ Float
Oman Air gives its valued customers the opportunity to take
off on a trip of a lifetime by flying out from Muscat to Mumbai.
Then, embark on a spectacular two-night cruise along the
Arabian Sea coast to Goa aboard the luxurious SuperStar Libra.
Experience all the deluxe trappings onboard this exclusive
floating resort on the high seas. Enjoy world-class entertainment,
recreation, hospitality, and a variety of dining options.
Oman Air Holidays also provides you the chance to spend a
starry-eyed evening on terra firma in India’s most happening
city. Go shopping for designer labels or a bargain souvenir, taste
the exquisite culinary delights on every street corner, visit the
numerous historic spots, explore the city’s myriad nightspots, or
take a long, romantic stroll along the seashore.
Begin it all with a specially warm and friendly welcome aboard
Oman Air.
With
Sindbad
More miles and
smiles in 2007
We understand that as a frequent flyer, you are looking for
value beyond the exclusive on-ground and in-flight service
when you fly Oman Air Business Class. That is why, starting
1 January 2007 and for one year, Sindbad members will earn
Double Status Miles on every Business Class flight they take.
The “Sindbad” programme now gives generous 2000 Sindbad
‘Web-booking’ Bonus Miles for one-way travel on Business
Class to New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Thiruvanthapuram,
and Kochi, and 1000 Sindbad ‘Web-booking‘ Bonus Miles to all
Middle Eastern destinations.
Log on and book your business class tickets online at
www.omanair.aero
10
Cover Story
IN TIME WARP: The famous Petra Complex
12
SENTINEL: A heritage site
A Land of
Charm and
H is tor y
If ever there is a land that has yoked stunning history
with equally stunning landscapes and drawn them
forward with a sprightly march of modernity, then it
is Jordan.
One of the most welcoming, hospitable countries in
the world, Jordan offers visitors a mind-boggling choice
of experiences through its myriad historical, religious
and natural sites.
The country is full of natural wonders and rich
historical and Biblical sites and can essentially be
termed as a bridge between sea and desert, east and
west, ancient and new civilisations.
With mountains running into valleys, and plains
to deserts, with limestone and sandstone fusing
together in unforgettable displays of shape and colour,
Jordan has some of the region’s most exciting and
accessible spots for a variety of natural adventures and
exploration.
13
SCENIC: A soothing view
In a beautiful study of beauty
and contrasts, the Hashemite
Kingdom of Jordan beckons
you. It could be the fertile and
ever changing Jordan Valley
or the remote desert canyons
interspersed
with
splendid
castles, haunting wilderness and
monuments spawning every age
of humanity.
Besides its natural, historical
and Biblical treasures, the country
offers its visitors the experience of
true Jordanian hospitality. Jordan
sightseeing can be divided into
three phases. The first of course is
Amman, the capital city itself; the
second would be places in and
around Amman; and the third and
most exciting is a journey on the
King’s Highway, the world’s oldest
and most continuously used
communication route.
which sits at the bottom of four of
At the other end of the theatre
Amman’s seven hills. The ancient
Citadel, which towers above
the city from atop Jabal
al-Qala’a, is a good place to begin
a tour of the city.
Downhill from the Citadel,
the Roman Theatre is the most
impressive relic of ancient
Amman.
The theatre, which was built
during the reign of Antonius
Pius (138-161 CE), is cut into the
northern side of a hill and can
accommodate 6000 spectators.
stage, the Museum of Popular
Traditions
displays
traditional
Jordanian costumes, including
fine embroidery and beautiful
antique jewellery.
At
the
heart
of
modern
downtown Amman is the King
Hussein
Mosque.
The
area
around the mosque bustles with
pedestrians, juice stands and
vendors. Between the Mosque
and the Citadel is Amman’s
famous gold souq.
Jabal al-Qala’a,
is a good place
to begin a tour
of the city
AMMAN
Jordan’s capital Amman is
known in history as RabbathAmmon and came to be known as
Philadelphia in Greco-Roman times.
Amman is a city built on seven
hills, or jabals. Most of Amman’s
noteworthy historical sites are
clustered in the downtown area,
14
Two small museums are built
AROUND AMMAN
into the foundations of the
Although most of the tourist
Roman theatre. The Jordan Folklore
places are located no more than
Museum is in the right wing of the
five hours drive from Amman,
theatre and displays a collection
there are some places around the
of items showing the traditional
capital city of Amman which can
life of local people.
be covered in a day trip.
of recent times, is the cave where Lot
and his family sought refuge from the
devastation of Sodom and Gomorrah.
DEAD SEA: Jordan is also famed
Some of the notable places are
Salt, The Shaumari and Mujib nature
reserves, Jerash, Umm al-Jimal, Jordan
Valley, desert castles, and Dead Sea.
SALT: This ancient town was
once the capital of Jordan during
the Turkish rule. Due to its history as
an Ottoman centre of government,
Salt is filled with wonderful Ottoman
architecture in the classical style. A
morning or evening spent strolling
through the picturesque streets of this
charming hill village is a time that will
long remain etched in your memory.
below sea level, is the lowest nature
reserve in the world. It offers safe havens
TIME TRAVEL: The most interesting
for rare species of cats, goats and other
route is the King’s Highway which
takes you south of Amman, twisting
and winding its way through the heart
of Jordan. Along this 5,000 year old
highway are a string of Biblical, historical
and UNESCO heritage sites, making you
feel that you are travelling back in time.
The first city you come upon is
Madaba, the city of Mosaics. To the
west of Madaba is Mount Nebo, the
most revered site in Jordan. This is
the memorial site of Moses at the
presumed site of the prophet’s death
and burial place. A small square church
was built on the spot by early Byzantine
Christians and later expanded into a vast
complex.
mountain animals.
JERASH: This is one of the largest
and best preserved sites of Roman
architecture in the world outside Italy. To
this day, its colonnaded streets, baths,
theatres, plazas and arches remain in
excellent condition. Visitors to Jerash in
late July or early August can enjoy the
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, an
exciting celebration of both Jordanian
and international culture.
THE MUJIB RESERVE: One of
Jordan’s most spectacular sights is Wadi
Mujib Reserve, which, at over 1000 metres
VIBRANT: Colourful handicraft items
16
for having the lowest spot on earth, the
Dead Sea, which allows nothing to live
in its waters. This is due to an extremely
high content of salt.
The high density of the water makes
sinking virtually impossible. You can
even recline in the water and read a
newspaper.
LOT’S REFUGE: One of Jordan’s
most exciting archaeological discoveries
UMM AR-RASAS: This place finds
WADI RUM: Further south is Wadi
Gold and silver shops are located
mention in the Old and New Testaments
of the Bible. But the main attraction
though is the Church of St. Stephen with
its perfectly preserved mosaic floors. It
contains the images of 15 major cities
of the Holy Land both from the east and
west of the Jordan River.
Rum, acclaimed by many as one of the
most stunning deserts in the world.
The vast silence and grandeur of the
landscape is best experienced on foot.
All you need for hiking in Wadi Rum is
plenty of water, some food, good shoes
and a sleeping bag.
in the downtown gold souq and
bordering on King Faisal Street. Jordan
CRUSADER’S
has a rich legacy of ancient handicrafts
which include beautiful handmade
glass, handy earthenware vessels,
skillful basket and carpet weaving,
and exquisite embroidery.
CASTLES: The
castles of Karak and Shobak, both
along the scenic King’s Highway, are
a must see for those fascinated by the
Crusader’s legends and lores.
PETRA:
Hidden among the
mountains south of the Dead Sea, is
the most famous of all the attractions
in Jordan, the soul stirring city of Petra.
This 2000-year-old city, carved from rosecoloured stone, was lost to the world for
over 1000 years, but was rediscovered in
1812 AD.
There is also an 8000-seat
Amphitheatre, cut out of the rock. After
the Amphitheatre, the gorge widens
out and you soon come to the main city
area, which covers about three square
kilometres.
AQABA: The furthest point down
south is Aqaba, Jordan’s year-round
aquatic playground, with its soothing
winter climate and spectacular Red Sea
setting of purple coloured mountains
and sandy beaches.
In winter, while Amman shivers
o
around 5 C, the temperature hovers
o
steadily at about 25 C in Aqaba and is
one of the most rewarding spots in the
world for scuba diving, snorkelling and
underwater photography.
BYGONE: An amphitheatre of yore
Wadi Rum is probably best known
internationally because of its connection
with
the
famous
British
officer
T.E. Lawrence, who was based here
during 1917-18. Much of the epic film
‘Lawrence of Arabia’ was shot in Wadi
Rum.
Indulge yourself in the friendship
of the Jordanians and indeed, the
greatest charm of Jordan is found in the
friendliness of its people. Whether you
are sightseeing, shopping, dining or just
relaxing, whether you are in the desert of
Wadi Rum, or on the shores of the Dead
Sea, or at a reception atop a medieval
Cuisine & shopping
Eating
The best attraction
heartily
is
a
Jordanian
tradition, and there are many fine
castle overlooking the Jordan Valley, the
smiling people of Jordan will contribute
restaurants that offer a sumptuous
most to the pleasant memories of your
selection
visit to this charming country.
of
authentic
Jordanian
cuisine at reasonable prices.
• Abu Dhabi: +971 2 6266800 • Al Ain: +971 3 7669943 • Amman: +9626 5 626644 • Bahrain: +973 17 225383 / 225282
• Beirut: +961 1 485076/ 511786 • Cairo: +202 5759797 / 5789393 • Chennai: +91 44 52147676 • Dammam: +966 3 8961412
• Delhi: +91 11 2332 4097 / 2332 4087 • Doha: +974 4424579 / 4320509 • Dubai: +971 4 3521777 • Hyderabad: +91 40
23245500 • Jeddah: +966 2 6456893 • Khasab: +968 26731592 • Kochi: +91 484 2358185 • Kuwait: +965 2412284 / 2452796,
Ext.103/104/105 • Mumbai: +91 22 22819180 • Muscat: +968 24765129 • Salalah: +968 23292777 • Sharjah: +971 6 5748212
• Thiruvananthapuram: +91 471 2728127 / 2728137
18
Oman
Oman’s
Roundabouts
IMPOSING: Roundabouts add colour to the dull and dry roads
20
THE FRANKINCENSE ROUNDABOUT: At Al Wadi Al Kabir
If art can be defined in utilitarian terms, then Oman’s roundabouts will walk
away with the cake. Among the many and wonderful peculiarities found in the
Sultanate of Oman are the roundabouts, essentially meant to control traffic at
intersections and junctions sans traffic lights.
These roundabouts, found mostly in and around urban and suburban
road intersections, have transformed a monotonous driving routine into a
pleasurable experience and in the process also sidestepping the jarring notes
of signal lights.
Most cities in Oman boast of an excellent network of roads which make
driving, one long smooth ride. Enhancing this mood out on the roads are the
elaborately done traffic roundabouts which give a refreshing break to the eye.
The roundabouts could effortlessly qualify as works of art when you closely
examine the work that has been put into most of them. The concept of most,
if not all, roundabouts seems to suggest a distinct relation with the culture of
Oman – laidback but warm, ubiquitous but unique.
The roundabouts could
effortlessly qualify as works
of art when you closely
examine the work that has
been put into most of them
Merging old with new
The structure and construction of the roundabouts also align themselves
with the overall character of the town and cities of Oman overcoming you
with a sense of time-freeze, a silent but steely blend of heritage, history with
modernity.
A drive around the main highways and arteries of Muscat and its surroundings
will put things in perspective. The roads lined up with trees and greenery are
interspersed by roundabouts which inevitably slow you down as if asking you to
soak in the beauty of the marvellous work of art, known as the roundabout.
While the sylvan settings lull you into a false sense of a tropical paradise
removed far away from the sand and desert, the roundabouts themselves
transport you into contemplation over the meaning of the decorative
settings found in them.
21
GLOBE ROUNDABOUT: Main junction of Sohar City
Ranging from an oversized Omani coffeepot to a giant
used to recreate and retrace the journey of Oman’s iconic
traditional incense burner and as varied as clock towers and
seaman, the legendary Sindbad the Sailor.
Marine historians and Omani shipbuilders came together
domes, the artistic bent of mind is in regal flow at these
roundabouts.
Preserving history
If one were to delve deep into the making of a roundabout,
then many reams of pages would be insufficient as each
one of them has a tale of its own.
Consider the roundabout just before you take right to go
to the Al Bustan Palace Hotel. Smack in the middle of this
roundabout is a weather-beaten dhow, a one time symbol
of Oman’s economic and sea faring supremacy.
A very common one, would be your comment, after closer
examination, until you are told that this very same dhow was
22
to construct the exact replica of a dhow, presumably used by
Sindbad the Sailor in his journey of the seven seas.
This dhow then set sail, following the trail of Sindbad, and
charted its way across the Indian Ocean, China and other
countries and successfully completed an eventful journey.
As a historical and monumental piece of work, the dhow
was then installed at the present location to be preserved for
posterity. A fitting resting place because it is surrounded by
rugged mountains on three sides and the sea on the fourth
side, aptly indicating the rough and hardy life of the ancient
Omani sailors.
AL BUSTAN ROUNDABOUT: Retracing Sindbad's voyage
A slice of life
Landmarks
At the roundabouts you can also see that an attempt is being
made to present a compressed slice of life from different parts
of Oman. Sometimes even a piece of history has been brought
to life at a roundabout.
Take for example, the Al Sahwa Tower roundabout, commonly
known as Rusayl roundabout, which is just next to the airport
and can be reached if you exit right from Seeb International
Airport roundabout.
The roundabouts
serve as important
landmarks for any
address in town
Al Sahwa Tower roundabout falls in the Seeb wilayat. This
roundabout has bas reliefs, symbolic of the country’s past
heritage and modern renaissance depicting history under
successive Sultans of Oman.
The attention to detail at each roundabout is amazing.
Beginning with the tarmac of the road which has small round
white embedded protrusions indicating the boundary for the
motorists, the well laid out gently sloping grassy knoll and the
flower beds serve like foreplay to gaze up and revel at the
masterpiece which adorns the centre of the roundabout.
24
All motorists in Oman will swear on a roundabout because
their life is almost inevitably centred around it.
The roundabouts serve as important landmarks for any address
in town.
If you ask someone for an address, then the first thing you will
hear is the name of a particular roundabout. People will know the
exact number of roundabouts more than they know a place.
While travelling by taxi or public transport, the quickest way
to reach a destination is by telling the driver about the nearest
roundabout to your place.
Aside from serving as a landmark, roundabouts are also centres
of economic activity. The taxi driver will be waiting for customers
here. Or you may have some good restaurants or coffee shops
nearby and even one or two neighbourhood grocery stores too,
depending upon the ‘busy’ness of the roundabout.
On the flip side, the roundabouts are being swallowed up by
flyovers being built to accommodate the burgeoning traffic.
Most roundabouts in Muscat city have now been pierced by
the big fat pillars of flyovers and the trend is extending to outside
the city limits. But while old roundabouts are losing out to the
development juggernaut, new roundabouts are coming up as
fresh and beautiful as the springtime flowers.
Take a long drive if you want a whiff.
Culture
Reclaiming
lost musical legacy
Few musical connoisseurs would know that the Guitar, among the most
mellifluous of western musical instruments, traces its musical origins to Oud,
an Arabic musical instrument.
It was the oud, which is also the predecessor and ancestor of the western
lute, which has paved the way for tonality in modern music.
Oud, unlike many other stringed instruments, allows the player to be
more expressive by using slides and vibrato. Music played on oud stirs up
the deepest emotions in the listeners.
CREATING MUSIC: Deft fingers working on an oud
26
ARABESQUE: Different types of ouds
Such an awesome musical instrument has become one of the
main instruments played by the Arabic musicians and has been
deeply ingrained in the Arabian music and culture, which has
developed over hundreds of years right up until today.
The oud is a pear-shaped,
stringed instrument, still used
in traditional Middle Eastern
music and East African music.
In the Arabian countries, this
traditional stringed instrument has
evolved into a harmonious masterpiece, with a vaulted
back design made from flexible pieces of wood.
The Arabian oud is somewhat larger as compared to other
ouds (like Turkish, slightly smaller in size, slightly shorter neck,
higher in pitch, brighter timbre) and heavier with a deeper tone
and lower pitch.
According to Farabi, the oud was invented by Lamak, the sixth
grandson of Adam.
The oud quickly spread to become a prized instrument across
the entire Arabic-speaking world. The first known pictorial record
of one such instrument is on a 5,000-year old seal currently
housed in the British Museum of London.
The Sultanate of Oman
has a constant and
dedicated focus to
care for and preserve
classical music and
Arabian culture
Even today in the Arab world the oud plays an outstanding
role in the traditional education of young Arabic musicians:
Playing and singing, rhythms, music theory and melodic modes
are taught on this instrument.
28
The Sultanate of Oman has a constant and dedicated focus
to care for and preserve classical music and Arabian culture.
It’s important to know that Oman has won the United Nations
Award in 2002 for preserving and caring for Classical Music.
In this context, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has
granted the order of Sultan Qaboos for Culture, Sciences and
Arts (first class) to Dr Essam El
Malah, general coordinator of
the first Muscat Arab Oud
Festival held in 2005.
The same order was
also granted to Ammar
Al Sharai from Egypt who
is regarded as perhaps
one of the world’s most
formidable oud composers
and performers.
Traditional music from instruments like oud marks some of
the stages in the life of an Omani, including birth, circumcision,
marriage, etc.
Oud has become an intrinsic part of any Omani cultural
programme. It is also used in vocal genres like as-sot and is
also a part of the bara of Dhofar.
Bringing alive traditions that were almost drowned in the
louder sounds of modern music, the International Oud Forum
held in December 2006 in Muscat made an effort to reclaim
the lost legacy of this singular instrument.
Internationally acclaimed musicians from Oman, Kuwait,
Bahrain, Iraq, Egypt, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iran, Turkey,
Greece, France and Spain successfully showcased the rich
legacy of oud, bringing out the soothing sweetness of the
oud’s sound through their seasoned fingers.
General
Give your
children
a book
BOOK WORLD: Any time is a good time to buy books
Books open up a world of fantasy,
interaction, knowledge, creativity
and diversity
Reading a book should be an educational experience
with lots of fun.
Books open up a world of fantasy, interaction, knowledge
and creativity, weaving diversity into the fabric of children’s
Get your child to read, and give him access to a different
dimension in life and see the changes it brings about in
everyday lives. It is interesting to note that the process of
shaping your child.
and how books work, begins as early as in the first year of life.
It is interesting to note
that the process of
reading, which involves an
understanding of stories,
print, and how books work,
begins as early as in the
first year of life
Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Thomas Alva Edison
and Winston Churchill were all underachievers who bloomed
later after they cultivated the reading habit. In this age of
computers and TV, your child could be missing out on a world
of experience. You may find that he does not read as many
books as children used to a decade ago.
30
reading, which involves an understanding of stories, print,
It’s the initiation your child has been given that determines
how much he enjoys it. There are so many activities one can
do to encourage children to read. Parents should ensure that
their children read, write, spell and pronounce words correctly.
Here are some ways you can make reading fun for your child
and you:
When out on a drive, read aloud billboards, road signs and
other interesting signs. Play a game of “I Spy” to find letters
on a licence plate. This can even turn out to be fun when
on a school trip. If you cook with your child, read aloud the
ingredients, measurements, and steps in the recipe book as
you cook.
WIDEN HORIZON: Reading enhances kids' knowledge
This initiates them into reading and following instructions
in a systematic manner.
Cut short TV watching time and read a tale of adventure
instead. Reading helps build her/his imagination.
The next time you set out on a trip or a picnic, don’t forget
to carry a book along with the basket of goodies. A book can
even be a good way to spend time if you have to wait for
long at some place or on a rainy day.
Spending just a few
minutes each day
reading together can go
a long way in building
up the skill and interest
for the printed word
If you are too tired to read aloud, sit with your child and
listen to a story on the tape. Turning pages to follow the
story can be great fun.
Surprise your child by bringing home an interesting comic
strip from the local newspaper or a new word on a greeting
card.
Make this a ritual your child looks forward to. Introduce
your child to the local or school library or encourage him to
join you when you visit the library. You can also subscribe
to children’s magazines or newspapers and encourage him
to contribute. Seeing their work in print can boost their
confidence.
Spending just a few minutes each day reading together
can go a long way in building up the skill and interest for
the printed word.
The earlier you start your reading programme, the better.
The best place to start is home. Children love to mimic
adults.
They watch us constantly. If as a parent you read, you will
find that sooner or later, your child will pick up a book too.
31
Health &
Fitness
EFFECTIVE: Technology helps to make your day, your life
ECG: myths and facts
The ECG is an indispensable tool
but there are many wrong ideas
about its use.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is an electrical recording of the heart and is used in the
investigation of heart disease. Millions of people undergo the electrocardiogram (ECG)
and the procedure has saved lives of innumerable patients by showing a serious condition
like heart attack with a fair degree of accuracy. It is almost synonymous with a lifeline, as
death is diagnosed when the ECG recording shows no activity or a straight line. Despite
the progress made in cardiac investigation and development of sophisticated gadgets in
cardiology, the ECG remains absolutely invaluable and unavoidable in cardiac assessment.
32
Misconceptions
However there are many wrong ideas, misconceptions and
myths about the use and interpretation of ECG. These create a lot
of problems for both doctors and patients. The problem has been
compounded by the modern computerised machines, which
give reports instantly typed on the ECG itself. Unfortunately,
these reports are either wrong or misleading in some of the
cases. This is because of the several parameters that influence
the ECG - age, gender, race, clinical condition, blood electrolyte
levels, not to speak of the other factors that frequently occur in
the recordings.
LIFE REPORT: Your health card
These parameters are not given as inputs into the computer
nor are reporting programmes perfect enough to take into
consideration the many variable parameters that influence the
ECG.
However, in clinical cardiology ECG is absolutely indispensable
and very valuable because in certain conditions like arrhythmia,
Myth: In serious heart diseases ECG must show abnormality.
Fact: Not so. In the presence of some serious heart disease
ECG could still be normal.
bundle branch block, heart block, certain types of ischaemic
heart disease or infarction the abnormalities if seen are almost
diagnostic. Nonetheless a normal ECG does not rule out disease
or abnormalities in the heart.
Myth: If ECG is normal the heart is normal.
Fact: Nothing could be more wrong. ECG could be normal in
the presence of serious heart disease and vice versa.
The ECG is an
indispensable tool but
there are many wrong
ideas about its use
Myth: If the ECG is abnormal the person must be having
some heart disease.
Fact: Not so always. There are many non-specific, normal
variations in the ECG waves and segments, which are neither
diagnostic nor indicative of any abnormal condition.
Myth: ECG can indicate heart failure or heart attack.
Fact: Neither. Heart failure is a failure of satisfactory
contraction of the muscles of the heart in relation to demand,
which is not reflected in the ECG. In 50 per cent of heart attacks
also the ECG may be normal in the beginning for some time
or in some unusual locations of the areas of the heart attack
(Myocardial Infarction).
ECG: Helps patients to monitor health
Myth: ECG is superior to clinical examination and assessment
by the doctor.
Myth: ECG diagnosis is purely objective and therefore there
is no interpersonal variation in its interpretation.
Fact: Not correct. Proper interpretation of the ECG depends
on the skill, training and experience of the interpreter as well as
Fact: ECG is only complementary or supportive to the doctor's the correlation with the clinical diagnosis as some abnormalities
clinical diagnosis.
in the ECG could be present in both normal variations and
abnormal conditions of the heart. ECG is to be always correlated
Myth: Echocardiogram has replaced the value and use of with the clinical diagnosis and be interpreted by an experienced
ECG.
physician.
Fact: Not at all. ECG gives information about the electrical
It is therefore important to appreciate the myths and facts
activity of the heart whereas the echocardiogram gives information
about this simple, common and totally indispensable tool in
about the structural or anatomical aspects of the heart.
cardiac investigation.
34
Business
Traveller
Make meetings effective
A meeting is only effective when it achieves its objectives in minimum time to
the satisfaction of the participants. Meetings can be boring and a waste of time;
they can also be productive and satisfying.
How can meetings be made interesting and effective? It is widely believed that
ninety per cent of an effective meeting happens before it takes place, through
proper planning and agenda. A successful meeting depends on how much and
how well everybody participates, not on how long it lasts. Writes Robert Burns
in Making Meetings Happen: “A meeting is never the most efficient way to
disseminate information or collect it; but it is a good means of evaluating it.”
He adds, “Also, remember that groups are not good at analyzing problems that
need expert knowledge and reasoning.”
LACE IT UP: Spice up your gathering with some humour
36
BRAINSTORMING: Meeting of many minds
A meeting fails because it was unnecessary in the first
Do not repeat yourself, but be clear and concise. Avoid long
place; it was held for the wrong reason; it had an unclear
monologues, or boring speeches. Make sure that you get the
objective; the wrong people attended it; it was timed poorly;
message across and leave nothing for later.
and so on.
This genre of meetings does nothing for the employee
Have somebody take down the minutes of the meeting.
This is good both for the records and for accountability.
morale and productivity. Such meetings take care of the
A meeting is never the
most efficient way to
disseminate information
or collect it; but it
is a good means of
evaluating it
issues on the agenda but the results do not percolate beyond
the immediate present.
A well-steered meeting on the other hand ensures that a lot
of vital communication happens. New ideas are generated,
decisions and consensus are reached and work gets done
efficiently. To keep meetings from straying from their original
Ask people to volunteer before assigning tasks to them.
purpose, here are a few handy tips.
While doing this keep their areas of interest in mind. Do not
Do not call for a meeting unless it is absolutely necessary.
Use e-mail, telephone, and one-to-one communication
instead.
Also remember
that groups are not
good at analyzing
problems that need
expert knowledge and
reasoning
leave any job or issue without an owner.
Solicit feedback. Answer all questions and concerns to the
best of your abilities.
Summarise the actionable points before you conclude.
Reiterate decisions that have been taken and list jobs that
require immediate follow-up.
Use structured activities in your meetings. These process
tools keep you in control while you ensure equitable
participation and systematic progress towards results.
Create the agenda in advance. Having a list of all the issues
While convening a meeting, exhibiting an organised
that need to be discussed will keep you on track and in
presence will help in establishing your credibility. You will also
control.
save others and yourself a lot of trouble if you keep meetings
Set a time frame for the meeting before you start. This will
keep you from extending it.
At the outset, give a brief introduction stating the purpose
short and effective. An effective meeting can ensure that your
project starts on the right note, and possible problem areas
are detected and tackled during the initial stages itself.
and goal of the meeting.
37
Sports
OMAN NATIONAL TEAM: A performance to be proud of
The 18th Gulf Cup a Gulf assembly and
honourable competition
Abu Dhabi, the splendid town in the UAE had been the
venue for the most enjoyable football tournament, narrating
national team won the first match against the host nation
the Gulf’s passion for the 18th Gulf Cup which soared by the
participation of eight football teams representing the Gulf
president of UAE. As usual, the Gulf tournament adhered to
countries. This unique assembly has woven the emblem of
the Gulf unity ensuring the superiority of its message.
This motivated them to do their utmost, right from training
For the first time in its football history, UAE topped the
teams when they defeated the Omani national team 1-0 in
the final match through a solitary goal scored by the UAE star
Ismail Matter.
The tournament witnessed the most exciting matches and
honourable competition amongst the teams to gain winning
points. The tournament started vigorously when the Omani
38
- UAE which was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, the
all technical aspects and all teams were keen to win the Cup.
sessions and fascinating spectators with their most advanced
soccer skills.
The 18th Gulf Cup was unique and accompanied by
many thrilling and attention grabbing episodes. Thousands
of ardent fans packed the UAE stadiums hours before the
referee’s whistle to kick-off the matches, thereby assuring
their full support to the Gulf footballers.
SPREADING CHEER: Enthusiastic Omani supporters singing and dancing
CROWD PULLER: The tournament attracted ardent fans
In the 18th Gulf Cup tournament, some of the admirers
As usual, since its inception in Bahrain, the 18th Gulf Cup
adopted new methods to express their delight such as
introduced new players, giving them the opportunity to
colouring their faces with their own flag colours, in addition
demonstrate their capabilities with their first steps firmly
to the creative rivalry to adopt more attractive methods. In
engraved and matching international soccer professionalism.
addition, the tournament was characterized by eminent
In Abu Dhabi, the agents of different clubs were exploring the
media coverage which facilitated bringing the occasion
possibility to acquire deals and gain professional players who
to light, in-depth analysis with a focus on some passionate
proved their mettle such as the star of our national team Yaqub
and electrifying topics having special flavour in the Gulf Cup
Saleem who joined the Al Wakra Club in Qatar, the Kuwaiti
tournament.
player, Fahad Al Rashidi whose services were requested by Al
The tournament
witnessed the most
exciting matches and
honourable competition
amongst the teams
Being the first to top its group against UAE, Kuwait and Yemen
achieving nine lovely points in the history of the tournament,
the Omani national team continued its distinguished
performances in the second stage, encountering and beating
Bahrain 1-0 in the semifinal, leading towards the final for
the second time in the Gulf Cup. In their quest towards the
semifinals, the Omani team was accompanied by UAE, Saudi
Arabia and Bahrain.
Sad Club in Qatar and the Bahraini player
Mahmoud Jalal who joined the Qatar
Club.
As the curtain has been lowered
on the 18th Gulf Cup competition, it
has attained the anticipated success and
goal, i.e. to create a sporty generation
who will admirably compete to be the
heroes of the 19th Gulf Cup. It will be hosted
by Muscat who will welcome the Gulf people
to their second nation Oman.
Picture courtesy: Sultan Salim Al Hasani
Highlights of the 18th Gulf Cup
• The first victory in the tournament was achieved by the Omani national team against the UAE team
in the opening match 2-1
• The Omani player Fawzi Bahsir scored the first goal against the UAE team
• The only goal scoring winning performance by the UAE player Ismail Matter against the Omani team
in the finals enabled him to be the best player and the top goal scorer of the tournament
• The Omani player Hashim Saleh scored the best goal in the tournament against the Kuwaiti team
• The fastest goal of the tournament was scored by the Omani player Sultan Al Toqi against Yemen in the
35th second of the match
• The loyal Omani team goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi achieved the title of the Best Goalkeeper for the
3rd consecutive time in the tournament
39
Fun Corner
Facts
• The words tariff, cotton and mattress are all derived
from Arabic
• The yo-yo originated in Philippines, where it was used
as a weapon in hunting
• Sea otters have the world’s densest fur; a million hairs
per square inch
• Plankton produce nearly three-quarters of the oxygen on the planet
• The average person makes about 1,140 telephone calls each year
• The brain is the second heaviest organ in the human after the liver
• The canopy of rainforest is so thick that only one per cent of sunlight
reaches the ground
• The Earth travels 12 million miles per day
• The ostrich yolk is the largest single cell in the world
• There are 294 steps in the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Humour
• The teacher of the school geography class was
lecturing on map reading.
After
explaining
about
After a confused silence, little Johnny volunteered
“I guess you’d be eating alone!”
latitude,
longitude,
degrees and minutes the teacher asked:
• A man said his credit card was stolen but he
”Suppose I asked you to meet me for lunch at 23
decided not to report it because the thief was
degrees, 4 minutes north latitude and 45 degrees,
spending less than his wife did.
15 minutes east longitude...?”
40
Knowledge Bank
The Ayers Rock
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large
sandstone rock formation in central Australia, in
the Northern Territory. It is located in Uluru-Kata
Tjuta National Park, 440 kms southwest of Alice
Springs.
It is the single largest, natural millennia-old
monolith on earth. Ten kms wide in diameter,
standing 348 metres above land, it is a World
Heritage Protected Site listed for both natural
and cultural values. Uluru is sacred to the
Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal
people of the area. It has many springs,
waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. It
is one of Australia’s best known natural wonders
and tourist sites.
Uluru is notable for appearing to change colour
as the different light strikes it at different times
of the day and year, with sunset a particularly
remarkable sight. The rock is made of arkosic
sandstone infused with minerals that reflect
the red light of sunrise and sunset, making it
appear to glow. The rock gets its rust colour
from oxidation.
MAJESTIC: The Ayers Rock
International Events
Kuwait - Hala February
The Hala February Festival is a month-long
annual event that takes place in Kuwait during
the spring season. It is a time when parched
sands of the desert transform into a magical
green carpet covered with blossoming,
colourful flora. The arrival of migratory birds
and seasonal animals during this time add
further colour, elegance and beauty to the
desert.
ICTIC, Tehran: March
The International Conference on Tourism
of Islamic Countries will be held in Tehran
in March to discuss the current state of
tourism in these countries and find ways for
promoting it.
Qatar Total Open:
1 - 7 March
International Tennis Tournament for Women
organised by Qatar Tennis Federation.
Hong Kong Arts Festival:
27 February - 25 March
ITB Berlin:
The Hong Kong Arts Festival - first held in
7 - 11 March
1973 - is the premier arts event of the year,
With 10,000 exhibitors from 180 countries and
featuring dance, visual art, theatre and music.
regions, ITB represents the full spectrum of
Each spring a wealth of international artists, as
global tourism at all levels of the value added
well as the best Asian and local performers,
chain like tour operators, booking systems, travel
make this one of the most vibrant and exciting
destinations, airlines, hotels and rental cars.
festivals in the world.
The European Fine Art Fair,
Netherlands (Maastricht):
9 - 18 March
The European Fine Art Fair, or TEFAF Maastricht,
as it’s commonly known, is widely regarded
as the world’s leading art and antiques fair,
a reputation which has been earned through
the quality and range of exhibits displayed by
participating dealers.
Dubai World Cup:
31 March
The Dubai World Cup at the Nad Al Sheba
Racecourse is the richest horse race in the
world.
Bahrain Grand Prix:
13 -15 April
The FIA Formula One World Championship is
the pinnacle of global motor racing.
41
Tech
Capsule
A holiday gift guide
for those on the go
For the teen
traveller
Just because holiday travel sometimes can be a nightmare
doesn’t mean that giving travel gifts has to be scary.
There are so many books and bags and gadgets for travellers
that it’s difficult to know where to start. We go into the merry
madness to come up with just the right gift for any type of
traveller on your list.
Rover TV Portable Recorder, www.rovertv.com
Can’t miss an episode of “Heroes”? You don’t have to. This small mobile
media player enables travellers to watch television anywhere, anytime.
Record to the device from television, DVD, digital video recorder or VCR
and take it with you on a train, plane or car. Rover TV can play up to six
hours of video and is available in two screen sizes.
For the high-tech
traveller
For the armchair
traveller
The Amazing Race DVD Board
Game, Pressman Toys
www.amazon.com
Watching the CBS reality show is
fantasy travel for many. Now you
can play the game and make the
fantasy come true - sort of. With host
Phil Keoghan providing guidance, the
interactive DVD features the fun and
adventure of the race, including detours,
roadblocks and pit stops.
Timbuk2 Blogger, www.ebags.com
More travellers are posting diaries,
photos and videos of their vacations
online for family and friends. This vertical
shoulder bag with built-in laptop sleeve
(up to 15 inches) keeps a computer
handy for quick uploads to
www. flickr.com or updates
to your travel diary.
For the nervous traveller
Bose QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise
Cancelling Headphones, www.bose.com
For the business
traveller
Philips 9-inch Digital Photo Frame
www.sharperimage.com
No matter how far you travel, keep family and
friends close with a digital photo frame. Transfer
photos to the frame from a camera or computer.
The display holds 150 photos and includes a slideshow feature. Comes with interchangeable frames
in several colours.
42
Keep calm with these soundproof headphones.
They do a great job of reducing engine noise
that can intrude on travellers’ ability to rest or
relax during flight. The headphones fold flat for
easy packing.
Kiddies'
Corner
The Ant and the
Grasshopper
In a field one summer’s day a Grasshopper was hopping about,
chirping and singing to its heart’s content. An Ant passed by,
bearing along with great toil an ear of corn he was taking to the
nest.
“Why not come and chat with me,” said the Grasshopper,
“instead of toiling in that way?”
“I am helping to lay up food for the winter,” said the Ant,
“and recommend you to do the same.”
“Why bother about winter?” said the Grasshopper; "We have
got plenty of food at present.” But the Ant went on its way and
continued its toil.
When the winter came the Grasshopper had no food and found
itself dying of hunger, while it saw the ants
distributing every day corn and grain from the
stores they had collected in the summer.
Then the Grasshopper knew:
It is best to prepare for the
days of necessity.
43
Welcome
to Oman
OMAN BECKONS
We extend to you a warm welcome to Oman, a country where hospitality is legendary.
The Sultanate of Oman is located on the south-eastern shores of Arabia and covers 309,500 sq. kms. Flanked to the north-west by the
United Arab Emirates, to the West by Saudi Arabia, and to the south-west by the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen, Oman is
divided into 9 administrative regions: Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Al Sharqiyah, Al Dhahirah, Musandam, Dhofar and
Al Buraimi. Mythical home of Sindbad the Sailor and dubbed as Gulf’s favourite getaway, Oman delights with its blend of modern
elegance and historic charm of a sea-faring nation. A nation of warm people, Oman is emerging as a favourite haunt for tourists.
ECO-TOURISM/WILDLIFE
With eco-tourism catching up fast all over the world, Oman has its own share. The Ras Al Hadd Turtle
Reserve is known for turtle nesting beaches while the Oryx is found in its natural habitat at the Haylat
Jaaluni. The Arabian Oryx Sanctuary was established in 1994 to help protect the oryx and to conserve
desert habitat and threatened species. The Al Saleel Park is a nature reserve located in the town of
Al Kamil wal-Wafi, in the interior of Oman, and was established to protect gazelles and plantations of
Samr and Ghaf trees (Acacia tortilis and Cineraria). Beaches like Qantab, Shatti Qurum, Azaiba, Shatti
Bahja and Sawadi beach offer quiet retreats.
HERITAGE
Forts: Oman’s strikingly beautiful landscape is punctuated with several impressive forts, castles and
watch towers. Dotted throughout Oman, these edifices add a picturesque element to the country’s
landscape.
Aflaj: It is the splendidly-engineered aflaj, the system of underground and surface canals, that have
watered the country’s agriculture for millennia, which will astound visitors. These aflaj still course like
arteries beneath the hills and plains of Oman, twisting along precipitous cliffs and threading villages and
date-palm groves, bringing to the parched land water and coolness and life itself.
CULTURE
The Omani culture has its roots firmly in the Islamic religion. Hospitality is legendary as any visitor to homes
is offered kahwa and dates. The bukhoor which perfumes the house is usually burned in a mabkhara,
traditional incense burner. It is traditional in Oman to pass bukhoor amongst the guests in the Majlis,
this is done as a gesture of hospitality. Oman is permeated with frankincense. Government buildings are
censed daily, even the elevators. The annual Muscat Festival, held during the early months of the year, is
a celebration of the cultural heritage of Oman. Another period of festivity is the 'Khareef Festival' in Salalah,
starting from the mid of July till the end of August. The National Day, celebrated on November 18, is also a
day to rejoice.
VISAS
Single entry visa - Valid for one month. It can be obtained on arrival at all land, sea and air terminals and at
Oman diplomatic missions abroad. Fee is OR 6.
Multiple entry visa - Valid for one year. It can be had on arrival at all land, sea and air terminals and also at
Oman diplomatic missions abroad. Fee is OR 10. This type of visa allows its holder to stay in Oman for 3 weeks
in each visit during the validity period of the visa. A minimum of 3 weeks must elapse between each visit.
44
Express visa – It is issued on the same day through the DG of Passports and Residency and at diplomatic
missions abroad. Fee is OR 7. Validity is two weeks.
LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT
Shopping: Oman is a great place for shopping as it blends the new and the old. The snazziest shopping
malls stand alongside the wonderfully quaint traditional markets like the Muttrah souk, Nizwa souk,
Hala souk in Salalah and Sinaw souk. Malls include Markaz Al Bahja, Al Araimi Complex, Sabco Centre,
Khamis Plaza, Al Harthy Complex, Capital Commercial Centre, LuLu Hypermarket, Centrepoint, Muscat
City Centre, among others.
Hotels: Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Hotel, The Chedi, Muscat InterContinental Hotel, The Grand
Hyatt, Sohar Beach Hotel, Al Sawadi Beach Resort, Radisson SAS, Al Falaj Hotel, Ramada Hotel, Hilton
Hotel - Salalah, The Crowne Plaza, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa and Golden Tulip Hotel, Sheraton
Oman Hotel, Sheraton Qurm Resort.
Museums: Bait Al Zubair, Natural History Museum, Oman French Museum, Sultan’s Armed Forces
Museum, Children’s Museum, Bait Al Baranda, Bait Al Muzna Gallery.
Dive Centres: Oman Dive Centre, Bluzone Water Sports, Capital Yacht Club, Marina Bander Al Rowda.
Cinemas: Al Nasr Cinema, Ruwi Cinema, Star Cinema, Al Shatti Cinema, Al Bahja Cinema, Al Wafi Plaza (Sur).
Oman - at a glance
CAPITAL: Muscat
AREA: 309,500 sq. kms
TIME: GMT +4 hours
LANGUAGE: Arabic is the official language. English is widely
spoken.
CURRENCY: OR = Omani Rial
Exchange rate: One US Dollar = 0.384 OR
VISAS: Single entry visit visa, Multiple entry visa, Express visa
ELECTRICITY: 220/380 volts
HOURS OF WORK/BUSINESS: Government departments
are open from 0730 – 1430 hrs and closed on Thursdays and
Fridays.
Private sector offices are open 0800 – 1300 and from 1600 –
1900 (except on Thursdays, till 1400 hrs), closed on Fridays.
CLIMATE: The hottest months are May through August. The
summer monsoon just touches the southern coast of Dhofar
during these months bringing regular light rain to Salalah and
reducing the average daytime highs to 30°C.
The most pleasant months to visit Oman are mid October
through March when daytime temperatures fall into the lower
30s and below.
AIRPORT: Seeb International Airport is the main airport. Salalah
also has an international airport. There are domestic airports at
Sur, Masirah Island and Khasab (Musandum).
INFORMATION
Ministry of Tourism:
P. O. Box 200,
Postal Code 115, Muscat,
Sultanate of Oman.
Tel: +968 24588700
Fax: +968 24588819
www.omantourism.gov.om
info@omantourism.gov.om
45
Welcome
aboard
Oman Air’s constant endeavour is to make your journey safe, comfortable and enjoyable. We provide below
the details of the amenities that are provided on board for your convenience. Should you require anything not
listed here, or have any queries, please contact our cabin crew. They will be delighted to be of assistance. If you
have any suggestions to improve our service, please convey them to our cabin crew.
SAFETY REGULATIONS
FIRST AID: Should you require any medical attention due to any pain or
HAND BAGGAGE:
discomfort, please contact the cabin crew immediately. They are trained in first
To ensure comfort to all the passengers, hand baggage in the cabin is limited
aid procedures and emergency care. A first aid kit is available on board.
to bags smaller than 24 cm x 41 cm x 51 cm. These must be stored either in the
overhead baggage lockers or under the seat in front of you. Please do not leave
DUTY FREE SHOPPING:
any baggage in the aisle, galley or in a way that obstructs the emergency exits.
A wide range of products are available on board in the
Doing so could cause inconvenience and impede evacuation in an emergency.
Duty Free Shopping facility; and you can find the details
of these in the accompanying literature. Please contact
the cabin crew if you wish to make any purchase.
SAFETY ON BOARD:
Your safety is our prime concern. You can find a safety card in the seat pocket in
front of you. This card gives you the details of the safety features of the aircraft.
Kindly study it carefully, note the emergency exits and pay close attention to the
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
crew’s demonstration of the emegency drill. When the captain turns on the “Fasten
UNACCOMPANIED MINORS:
seatbelts” sign due to any emergency or bad weather, please return to your seat
If your child aged between 7
immediately and fasten your seatbelt. For your own safety, we also recommend
and 12 is flying unaccompanied,
keeping your seatbelt loosely fastened when seated during the flight.
please inform us while making
the reservation. Our staff will
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT:
be assigned to take care of
Portable electronic items such as personal computers and handheld games may
your
not be used during take-off and landings as they could interfere with the aircraft’s
safeguarding their passport,
equipment. Pocket calculators, hearing aids and heart pacemakers are exempt.
immigration
Use of radios and mobile phones are prohibited on board at all times.
cards.
child’s
requirements,
and
medical
FACILITIES AVAILABLE ON BOARD
PASSENGERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:
IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT:
Our ground and cabin crew will be happy to assist passengers with special needs
For your enjoyment we are pleased to provide
in every way possible. Kindly inform us of the nature of your health condition
programmes in Arabic, English and Hindi; we
in advance while making the flight reservation to help us make the necessary
also show Tamil and Malayalam films in cetain
arrangements.
sectors. To listen to the programme you wish
to enjoy, just plug in the headset and press the
INFANTS ON BOARD:
channel of your choice on the control unit.
We have a limited selection of baby food
on board, plus bottles, teats, talcum
READING AND WRITING MATERIAL:
powder and diapers. Should you have
A wide seletion of newspapers and magazines in English and Arabic, both national
special requirements for your child,
and international, are available on board. Should you require aerogrammes or
please inform us while making your
stationery, our crew will make them available to you.
flight reservation and we will endeavour
to make arrangements. Our cabin staff
TO FRESHEN UP:
will be happy to warm your baby feeding bottles for you. Our aircraft are fitted
A seletion of deodorants, perfumes, soaps, tissues and towels are available in the
with baby bassinets which should be requested while making your reservation.
lavatories; also available are electric sockets for electric shavers. Toothbrushes,
If you are carrying a child on your lap, please ask the cabin crew for a child’s seat
toothpaste and combs are available on request.
belt before take off.
46