BASSEL NADIM باسل نديم

تأبط مسدساً

2011-11-02T02:33:00.000+04:00

تحكي رواية "جوني تأبطً مسدساً" للكاتب الأمريكي دلتون ترمبو عن الجندي الذي داس على لغم أرضي فبتر قدماه و قطع يداه وفقأ عيناه و جدع أنفه و مزق طبلة الأذن و حطم حباله الصوتية و الصق شفتاه من شظاياه. لقد أضحى الجندي جذعاً يحيى على الآلات المرتبطة به.

يستحضر الجندي آلاف الذكريات من ماضيه و مما قال له أباه، لكن عبثاً يحاول أن يخرج من أسر وظلمة جسده له، ويضيق به المكان بينما ذكرياته تهطل وتتسع أبداً. يرسل الجندي، جوني، إشارات رتيبة غريبة من خلال تشنجات جذعه، تقلصات طويلة وقصيرة يفهمها أحد الممرضين ويحلها شفرتها..إنها إشارات مورس: ا ق ت ل و ن ي... اقتلوني

إليكم مشهداً من خارج القصة تماماً، ربما يبدو أقل قتامة لكنه في جوهره أكثر تعقيداً. يعرض المشهد الجندي نفسه لكن بلسان سليم يحدث الناس والصدى عن ذكرياته و عن أحلامه ، يولّد من عقله العالم الذي يريد و الظلال التي يريد ويقول ما يريد. أجندينا رجل عقلاني و !ّ!شفاف؟! و إلى متى نسمع أحلامه و هواجسه وهرطقاته

iBassel

2011-10-12T02:25:00.000+04:00

Finally, I managed to develop my own app – iBassel. I got inspired by iPhone apps and decided to move a step ahead from a mere downloader to active “Appler” or at least a knowledgeable apps user. Again, I am trying to emphasize that iPhone is a post mobile era and it is not a new mobile brand, start the literacy now.

If you are keen to peruse such an “enlightment” then the starting step is obtaining Apple IOS Developer ID from Apple website (costs US$ 99). Subsequent to having a million-dollar app idea, you need to carry out all the back office work. Whether you are using Mac, web-based Mac applications or Mac-in-cloud you need to have a developer account at the host server, then logging into your Apple Developer account to produce an App ID for your proposed app, and then create Certificate Signing Request CSR. Upon that, follow the instruction to issue Push Production Certificate and complete the Distribution Provisional Certificate. Your app is “legally” developed by now, yet you need to build/upload it on Appstore, if it passes the AQI test, otherwise, you may distribute it on ad-hoc basis to other ifreinds. It sounds like chemistry, so the best thing to do is to visit Apple iOS Library for more details and trouble shootings. Stick to using ready template and forms before option to iOS SDK and deploying OS XCoca.

My first app is simple as I aim to acquaint myself to the aforementioned process. Direct your browser to http://appma.kr/o2wecH and pay a visit to iBassel. The app has 4 tabs that bring some of my recent writings to imates’ finger prints, in addition to Ask me function which allows you to raise any question or submit a feedback. Oops, I need to update my app feeder site, and keep goods apps up.

iBassel (Bassel Nadim)

I published it originally on Computer Sight

Mobile Shadows

2011-10-08T23:03:00.000+04:00

Last month was my 10 year anniversary of holding a mobile! I think my kids would feel shy to that date.

I rented the first mobile, Semins, prior to my leave for the UK and paid US$ 120 for 2 weeks rent. I had enjoyed the functions particularly the caller ID which was not available on land lines. It did not take that much time to buy my first mobile, Nokia 3310, which comes with VodaPhone US$ 24-monthly plan including 120 minute free.

A year later, the device had been dropped in the toilet, accidently. I ceased this opportunity to claim the insurance policy to realise that peril was excluded.. To stay connected, I went to London East End and managed to buy a cheap second phone for US$ 15. I don’t recall the mobile brand, it was ugly and big machine with weak battery. All in all, I did not enjoy my experience with VodaFone, I was unable to switch my plan to a convenient one and also it was expensive to update my address, which I changed several times, as I need to go through a paid and loud call center.

I moved to Dubai and bought Sagem for US$ 48 and subscribed to Etisalat Wasel service for US$ 45. The device has a funny shape like a turtle but was too far better than the “machine!”. I carried that mobile for almost a year until I bought a secondhand mobile from Kuwait, Sony Ericson, the body and the screen were in blue- the colour of love as Lisa Ekdahl sings. Few months later, I bought another Sonny Ericson powered by infrared and blue tooth functions - the state of the art technology at that time. The set comes with music composition feature which I used to compose 3 pieces of music: Glasgow, Rush and nightmare… great tunes. I kept the previous “blue” device for roaming purposes, it was the first time I hold 2 mobiles in a time, was a sign of luxury.

Days passed by and I became more and more fascinated by Sony Ericson in terms of functions, design and price. Yet, I decided to move to the so called “business mobile” and opted for i-mate. It was an woeful experience so I quickly sold it to a shop in Sharjah and bought Sony Ericson K610i which was high tech handy mobile with many great functions especially live blogging. Check my personal website to see how many live bloggings I uploaded. Unfortunately, the mobile screen cracked and found myself in a position to give it up. The K610i device is too close to my heart and a precious item in my collectables. In addition to its great tech, it has attended my wedding ceremony and also endured the early bits of my son, Rades.

I decided to find a good gadget that supports my work needs, Nokia E61i was a good choice due to its wide screen, keyboard and office-enabling applications. I had also activated a supplementary mobile, LG, a new set that I got for US$ 50 with a sim card!

Accessing emails and browsing internet via mobile is a big addiction. I obtained a Blackberry which dramatically improved the way I communicate with people. The supernova change is when I recently bought iPhone. In contrary to BlackBerry, iPhone changes the entire communication style. I would argue saying that iPhone is a post-mobile era and it is not just a new mobile brand as all. I am completely inspired by Apple apps and currently pursuing some self-teaching classes in iOS development. My first app is coming soon.

Mobile phones is an integral part of everyday life and in my memories too.

Credit

Thanks to all friends for their patience and technical testimony on mobile as I am not easy to get convinced when it comes to buying a mobile. Special thanks to Wael Ch, Anas Q, Jeeb Mc, Azem F, Assad S, Mazen K, Mouhaned A Hiba H, Shadi S and Obaida R

My article was also published on Bizcovering

Bassel Nadim

Insurance and Takaful in the MENA Region

2011-09-08T13:13:00.002+04:00

I believe that strategy knowledge in the insurance industry is not well addressed and structured. The sector is dominated by day-to-day selling mentality to meet the demand for compulsory insurance- mainly car insurance. There are little postgraduate programs for insurance studies and textbooks in the region are not as diversified as other banking and corporate finance books.

To participate in filling this gap, I am developing a website with passion to bring value to students and industry practitioners. Your contribution is also appreciated. Visit it http://www.insurance-mena.com/

الملّاح

2011-08-31T02:41:00.000+04:00

الملّاح

آهات الإعياء

و تناثر الأصداء

ملأت الأجواء

ترنيمة الضياء

في الصبح و المساء

أرض تدور

باءت تبور

هيهات يا ملّاح

الكأس و الأقداح

و رقصة الأتراح

عش مرتاح

في القبر القديم

و أنسه اللئيم

اليوم و الأيام

و رحلة الأحلام

و سطوة الآلام

في الليل و الصباح

حفلة الصياح

هيهات يا ملاح

باسل نديم

نُشرت أيضاً على موقع الساخر

Shisha-free dinning out

2011-08-30T00:07:00.001+04:00

Did you fed up dinning out while shisha smoke kills your leisure? A list of some shisah-free restaurants in Dubai is ready. Send yours too:

- Bob's. Amercian food. Jumeirah Beach Residence.

- Al Hallab. Lebanese cuisine. Dubai, Garhoud 04 282 3388

- Coco's. International cuisine in Dubai Shiekh Zayed Road 04 332 6333

- Oregano. Italian restaurant.Dubai Emaar Business Park 04 360-7700

العبور

2011-08-24T12:31:00.029+04:00

العبور

أنّى العبور

بين الحجور

ترنيمةٌ بلا ذكرى

دفترٌ بلا سطور

****

خوف الظلام

ظلام الخوف

ألملم ظلالي

قوةٌ تبور

****

وطنٌ يثور

نفسٌ تفور

و عملاقٌ رهيبٌ

بات يغور

****

جلمودٌ فاه

ذئبٌ تاه

شظايا و أصداء

أرضٌ تمور

****

هتاف الزوايا

و زوايا الهتافات

بريق المآقي

و أمنيات الكائنات

في الشوارع، على الشرفات

إسطورة و حكايا

تهمل السرايا

توقف الرحايا و لعبة المنايا

تكسر المسلّمات

تديح بالصمت

تخرج عن الّلات

****

إنه آت

باسل نديم

نُشرت أيضاً على موقع الساخر

مسابقة ناشيونال جوغرافيك أبوظبي

2011-08-15T22:53:00.002+04:00

ساهمت في مسابقة " صور تروى" التي نظمتها ناشيونال جوغرافيك أبوظبي بصورة بعنوان السوق

السوق في دلالته السريالية مرادف لمغوى الضوء و مغرى الأشياء. السوق في هذه الصورة مضاد لذاك، فهو صامت و حقيقي

باسل نديم

Islamic Banking Myth Revealed

2011-08-10T16:18:00.001+04:00

Global Islamic banking industry is estimated at US$ 1 trillion and projected to get doubled in the coming 5 years. Islamic banking is more than non-interest bearing financing, it is an ethical asset-based financial system.

The Islamic banking is an industry of itself governed by set of rules and standards issued by world-class organizations such as the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions AAOIFI and International Financial Reporting Standard - IFSB. There are key features that recognize the Islamic banking from the conventional banking.

No-interest bearing financing

The taking of interest is strictly prohibited in Islam. This does not mean that capital is costless in Islamic finance, but that returns or profits should be linked to a value creating investment in a good or service.

No uncertainty

Uncertainty or “Gharar” is defined as ambiguity in a contractual relationship where the end result can only be zero-sum game, i.e. one party profiting at the expense of another.

Moral investment

Financing or investing in projects that are harmful to people (alcohol or tobacco) or immoral under Islam is prohibited.

Asset-based financial system

The function of money in Islamic banking is to facilitate trade and as a measure of value to goods and services. Unlike conventional financial institutions, money is not considered a tradable commodity in itself.

The prohibition on taking interest has made Islamic financial institutions and finance an asset-based system. Main Islamic banking products i.e. Murabaha, Istisna’a and Ijara involve investment in real assets or services resulting from those assets, and due to prohibitions on Gharar, risk in these transactions is usually shared between the parties. Islamic banks can provide finance using one of more of the following asset-based forms:

Murabaha

Most of Islamic banking transactions are under this form. In Murabaha transactions, the Islamic bank purchases the product to the request of a client, and re-sells the product to the client on a deferred payment basis. The bank purchases the product from the vendor, and sells the product to the customer at a marked up price (P+X), on a deferred payment basis. The period covering the deferred payment is effectively the financing period. The title to the product is transferred to the customer at the time of purchase, but the customer usually provides a collateral to the company during the financing period

Ijarah

The Islamic bank purchases the product and then leases it to the buyer with a profit margin. The customer makes periodic (typically monthly) rental payments to the Islamic bank. The title to the property remains in the finance company’s name

Istisna’a is primarily a deferred delivery sale contract. It can be used for financing the construction of a product. With Istisna’a, the parties meet to agree on the specifications of the construction and the price. The Islamic bank then appoints the contractor to complete the project. The customer only commences repayment only once the project is completed. Repayments can be made at a fixed or a flexible profit rate

Musharakah

The asset is bought by the Islamic bank and resold to the customer in the form of an equity partnership. The customer buys an initial share and with each installment this share increases to eventually reach 100 percent ownership. Profits and losses, if they are part of the operation, are shared between the parties as in any equity agreement

Mudaraba

An agreement between a Islamic bank and a third party whereby one party would provide a certain amount of funds, which the other party (Mudarib) would then invest in a specific enterprise or activity against a specific share in the profit. The Mudarib would bear the loss in case of default, negligence or violation of any of the terms and conditions of the Mudaraba

Wakala

An agreement whereby the Company provides a certain sum of money to an agent, who invests it according to specific conditions in return for a certain fee (a lump sum of money or a percentage of the amount invested). The agent is obliged to return the invested amount in case of default, negligence or violation of any of the terms and conditions of the Wakala

Written by: Bassel Nadim

Monetary regulation and financial liberalisation

2011-07-19T02:21:00.002+04:00

Can a government make money out of financial repression? Can regulating the banking sector be attained while liberalising the economy? What is Basel Convention role? Where the World Bank stands? This paper addresses the puzzling questions of monetary liberalization in developing countries.

Read my first published e-book on monetary regulation and financial liberalisation.

Author Bassel Nadim

ISBN           978-1-257-92033-4
Copyright     Standard Copyright License
Published     July 18, 2011
Language     English
Pages            22

Price $5.24
File Format PDF
File Size 180.2 kB

Facebook does not exist

2011-07-05T01:09:00.000+04:00

was also published on allvoices

Users from Dubai are facing difficulties accessing the Facebook website. The incident was reported on July 5, 2011 at 12:30 AM local time (20:30 PM GMT). Instead, the Facebook url displays a Wikimedia page that says: Wiki does not exist. Trying alternative route such as going directly through the “log in url” gives worse answer i.e. 404-not found!

The reason of such case is not clear. Common causes include webmaster collapse or a successful hacking attack has taken place. The coming hours will reveal more facts and information.

Bassel Nadim

Stay in Sanaa

2011-03-05T13:09:00.000+04:00

was also published on tripadvisor

Moevenpick hotel is located on Shamnsan Mountain (or Dhaher Hemiar as per locals). The property is 10 minute away from the city and 20 minute from the airport. The surrounding area is safe and secured due to the hotel’s inspection gate and nearby embassies.

Timeless and accurate services are provided by the hotel. Hygiene, comfort and attendance to the guests’ needs are well addressed by the management, I did not ask for any request twice. Employees are friendly and helpful with good English skills.

The premises is new and modern and has a beautiful view over the peaceful city of Sanaa. Some rooms have a balcony if you fancy staring at the horizon. In house facilities are properly operated, I have enjoyed the breakfast, the swimming pool and the gym. Speed wireless internet connection is available for US$ 24 a day.

The hotel is not surrounded by retail shops, it is advised to secure your stuff before hand. Mini bar supplies and food menu are expensive options.
Enjoy your stay.

Book Review: 1000 Best Quick and Easy Organizing Secrets

2011-02-10T23:22:00.000+04:00

was also published on Bookstove

ARE you running right and left in the morning looking for your stuff? Do you spend long time locating your keys? Are the papers piling on the disk forever? Are you planning to spend a day-off sorting your stuff out? Is your answer was yes to any of the questions above that means you need to read this book.

In her book 1000 Best Quick and Easy Organizing Secrets Jamie Novak writes more than 400 pages of clutter-free tips and pieces of advice. The book is easy to read by everyone as it is divided into tips, each of which is few lines long and directly to the point. The book is not meant to be an academic reference on space management or ergonomics, rather, a mini guide to getting rid of junk. The provided tips are costless and focus on the reuse of the available facilities.

The book starts with a simple definition of clutter, followed by telling 33 reasons of why things are being accumulated. Some reasons include convincing ourselves of the need of the stuff, the profound love with certain possessions, and the too- good to-keep mentality. Jamie argues with the taken- for-granted rules and introduces alternative way to thinking about things. The author treats critical issues such as separation (from stuff) anxiety, procrastination, stress free holidays in just few tips and steps.

The book equips the reader with clutter proofing essentials and golden rules of storage to pave the way for implementing them every day and in every living and bedroom, in entryway to bathroom, and from garden to craft areas, and then it moves to dealing with papers and documents including financial records and statements. The book then moves to dealing with more interactive issues related to family, children, weekends, work and shopping.

The book provokes the use of simple actions rather than complicated ones, planning ahead, to-do list, grouping similar things together and how to utilize free minutes during the day. It enhances the tendency of placing things for one time and forever, and teaches how to be less attached to things. The book would help in improving time management skills and reduces stress.

While we need to appreciate the holistic clutter proof lists, they are sometimes repetitive and someone may feel that the same topic is being rewritten again or the same tips are being restated differently. The advice lack the evidence of whether or not they were effective.

The book sounds like someone is thinking loudly in community presentation, while this makes the book friendly to use, it is making it hard to be believed. Tips are treated equally in terms of importance there is no direction on what needed to be done first.

Bassel Nadim

Zimbardo vs. Guantánamo in Dubai

2011-02-03T00:12:00.000+04:00

was also posted on Allvoices

A controversial confrontation between an ex-guard at Guantánamo Bay dentition camp and a former detainee will be taking place in Dubai accompanied by the facilitation of Dr. Philip Zimbardo, professor of psychology at Stanford University.

Hosted by Boldtalks, Dubai-based community debate forum, the meeting will address the psychology behind the guard-detainee relationship, an argumentative topic in post modernization psychology which examines the psychological effects of human under given circumstances. Dr. Zimbardo’s famous simulation, Stanford Prison Experiment, will explain how Guantánamo’s rules has degenerated and dictated the behaviors of guards and prisoners in reality, beyond fences.

Moazzam Begg, the former detainee, is a British Pakistani held in Guantánamo for three years for allegations of being Al Qaeda member and was released without charge in 2005. Moazzam will be meeting his former guard TJ Holdbrooks an American who worked for some time at the camp and was converted into Islam after he saw how muslim detainees were keen on their faith.

Bassel Nadim

What the world has been searching for during 2010 – Part 1

2010-12-30T18:16:00.000+04:00

Browsers around the world plug many hundred millions key words a day on search engines fishing for information on unlimited topics. Nevertheless, there is a global consensus on top words of which Google reveals the highest 10 faster rising words-in-search worldwide which are the following as of December 28, 2010:

1- iPad

2- fb (facebook)

3- facebook en español

4- 4shared

5- www.facebook.com

6- twitter

7- fifa

8- taringa

9- face

10- facebook

iPad and Facebook are the top words of interests ever. I will be providing more fascinating facts on end of the year ranking soon.

Bassel

Google Search Inquires do not Go in Vain

2010-12-25T21:33:00.006+04:00

was also published on webupon.com

GOOGLE search inquires are stored and kept to feed its proprietary database to analyze trends and social behavior. Are you curious to read what does Google knows about you? Carry on reading.

As a response to the criticism on its transparency, Google has introduced a facility, called Google Dashboard, to enable users accessing what information has been collected. The service is free and can be reached by following a few steps: go to Google Homepage, click on the Privacy Link at the end of the page, click on the Dashboard Tab on the left side bar, then log into your account and scroll down to the end till you find the Web History Section… here we go, it shows you what you had been searching for since years ago.

The recorded results can only be retrieved if you were logging in while conducting the search, otherwise they will be stored under the computer’s IP and there is no platform to retrieve them yet.

If you are not satisfied that your records are being filed and tracked, then you can clear the search history and deactivate the archiving function by selecting Clear Web History followed by turning off Goggles Search History option.

Google eyes are no longer watching you.

Bassel Nadim
Artwork: Chip Taylor

A Good Hotel to Stay at in Moscow

2010-12-07T21:47:00.002+04:00

was also published on TripAdvisor.co.uk

This is my first trip to Moscow and I found Aquamarine Hotel a good deal in terms of location, rooms, food and daily rate.

The hotel is located in a calm area nearby Moscow River, yet enjoys a “strategic” location by being 7 minutes walking distance away from the Red Square(face the river and walk left) and also about 5 minutes walking distance from Taganskaya street (face the river and walk right) where a plenty of restaurants and too many attractions are available rather. Enjoy exploring the neighborhood and don’t forget to pick up some of various free tourist materials and maps from the lobby while wondering around. I walked overnight there (11 pm) it was dark but safe.

The hotel has new premises with modern interior design and staffed by helpful well trained English-speaker employees. Rooms are clean and neat, I spent a comfortable night and cool stay - say a warm night because of the radiators. I have also enjoyed delicious international food offered by Topaz restaurant. Don’t forget to ask the hotel to register you with the police; this is a standard norm when visiting Russia.

The hotel accepts international credit cards and Rubbles only. It is fascinating enough is to find a currency exchange machine at the lobby, I have changed some US Dollars into Rubbles and the rate was the best I got in Moscow.

Enjoy your stay.

Bassel Nadim

Eat Organic!

2010-11-14T22:07:00.001+04:00

was also published on tripadvisor.co.uk

If you follow organic food regime or welling to give it a try, why don’t you pay a visit to Organic Foods & Café in Dubai, the Greens, Emaar Business Park... Here we go

Everything in the shop is simple: the interior design, the décor, tables and even dishes and cutleries, it feels like a summer house! The menu offers several options and , as expected, all made from organic ingredients!. Don’t forget to ask for the complementary bread basket and butter, you can also request some slices of cheese. Prices are affordable and somehow below those in the nearby restaurants. Good meals include beef steak with stemmed vegetables and french fries, catch of the day (fish), and rich-in-cheese organic pizza. Friday and Saturday Brunch is also good choice. A selection of newspapers is available for you to read while eaingt. Pay a visit to connected organic retail shop and browse wide variety of organic food and home stuff.

The staff is really nice and the shop’s management is keen to make everyone happy especially with late served food (may happen). People who like fancy or business restaurants may not find this place appealing as there is no modern fixtures and many visitors are dinning in with comfortable home cloth! Access to the Greens and this shop is complicated and you need to have some directions before hand, however, designated parking spots are available. The shop closes at 9 pm, please call to confirm.

Bassel Nadim

Buy More Books On-line Than Ever Before

2010-10-27T21:24:00.020+04:00

Was also published on Bookstove

PEOPLE used to buy book from local bookshops or garage sales. However, increasing numbers of readers are opting for on-line book stores aiming at browsing unlimited titles, different choices and convenience. Ensuring that you buy the book you need at the best deal is the name of the game.

The content you need

An important fact about buying a book is that there is no money-back guarantee concerning the book content. Books are subjective and readers can not claim a warranty on a creative piece of work. Redeaing the published reviews on the book’s web page or any other source if helpful to have an idea of the book. Try also to google the book itself returning search results into PDF format as some authores may publish part of the book to promote readers.

Actually, there are plenty of reading materials offered for free by communities and societies such as citizen bureau, customer protections, specialized associations and public interest groups. Always related the topic of interest to one of those bodies, you may find something relevant. For example the Financial Services Authority in the UK publishes Money Made Clear series which includes wide range of topics related to mortgage, financial advice, investment and money.

The best rate

To reduce the hassle of visiting all e-bookshops to check prices and availability, try price comparison websites such as www.allbookstores.com. Remember, it is not only the cover price but also other cost items especially shipment charges, taxes and delivery time. Consider books bargains, auctions, or buying used book after, but not before, concluding on the best deal of buying a new book as quotes for non-new books are often overpriced.

Shipment cost and time

In most cases shipping cost may add up 30% to the book original price. If you buy online very often, then opt for getting a UK or USA based addresses. Couriers companies, among other, can create a cyber address and ship the incoming post to your original address. Subscription and shipment fees are lower than the shipment rates requested by e-book stores. Alternatively, buy a group of books in one purchase order, as many merchants offer free shopping for a certain checkout amount, Also try to place the order prior to sufficient time then you can select shipper shipment rate.

Make the best out of the book

Many e-shops and publishers offer the readers complementary services such discount and access for further readings online. You can also trade-in the book, e-bay and some other auctions and forums are helpful in getting almost 50-70% of the original price which will help in refreshing books budget.

Enjoy reading!

Bassel Nadim

A trip to the heart of Tatarstan - Kazan

2010-10-19T22:25:00.040+04:00

Tatarstan Republic is part of Russian Federation, lies between the Volga River and the Kama River, and extends east to the Ural mountain.

My trip to Tatarstan went beyond expectations. Kazan the capital, a clam city ever, tells untold tales of the place and the mankind. The country shall be the next destination in your realization of the world. Nothing surprising to read in poem of “Shurale” what the famous Tatari poet Gabdulla Tukay (1886 -1913) wrote:

“I recall in all directions

Lay the backwood's broad delight.

Grasslands there of glossy velvet

Dazzled everybody's sight”

Reaching Kazan

Various public transport means are available across Russia, however, it is recommended to buy a ticket on Siberian Airlines (S7) which operates a couple of flights a day to Kazan via Moscow – Domodedovo , among other operators. Siberian Airlines is well known for departure on time comparing to other airlines. The trip to Kazan is about 80 minutes flying over the Volga region. You will be pleased to see the wide green country sides if no clouds.

Kazan airport is pretty small and can only accommodate a plan in a time. Passengers need to wait for the luggage outside the arrival hall, then to get back for collection. Be prepared to show the tag while claiming your bags.

The trip to Kazan city requires 30-45 minutes by taxi depending on the traffic jam. It is highly advised to book the taxi prior to your departure as taxis are not easy to find nearby. Buses are always available – not being tried by the author- bus 97 runs from the airport via the Mega shopping mall to "39 Kvartal” to connect to other areas in Kazan. If you are flying to Kazan from abroad, then you need to follow the Russian travel roles and entry regulations.

Accommodation
There are a plenty of hotels in Kazan, those by the Volga River are advised due to the spectacular views and the ease of walking around. Grand Kazan Hotel, for example, is a new 12-story modern property which enjoys a good location by the river and attached to a shopping centre. Receptionists are helpful and speak flair English. Rooms are nice and tidy with a Flatron TV screen that shows international, Italian, Russian and Arabic channels. Food and beverage facilities are within the acceptable range. Give a try to the gift vending machine located in the lobby, it offers a variety of souvenirs at affordable prices and cheaper than those in Kazan airport. A pool and a fitness center are available. Free speed Wi-Fi is accessible in the lobby. No internet in the rooms.

Walking Around
Most attractions are in a walking distance from the city center. The main attractions for tourists are around the Kremlin and Bauman Street. Yet, walking by the Volga River is second to none to grasp the city landscape which finds its roots from the old Tatari style and inspired by the Islamic and the Orthodox architecture and soviet culture. Kazan's Kremlin and the Kol Sharif mosque are very few examples. Don’t miss to visit Söyembikä tower, an ancient Tatari piece of art. Consult Kazan City Tourist Portal www.gokazan.com to learn further.

Following the general tips of safe walking around is advised! Carry the hotel registration card when outside. Majority of people in Kazan, like the case across Russia, speak no English. Carrying the address of the hotel and a list of key requests and locations is a good technique to follow.

Food
Varity of cuisines can be found across the city especially in Moskovaskay street. DTK national restaurant serves Russian and tatari food. Make sure to test the superb borsch soup with ingredients of meat or fish broths, red beets, mushrooms, cabbage, onions, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. Shashlik is also testy and too much similar to meat grills in the oriental cuisine. Food portion in Kazan, and Russia in general, is smaller than expected.

Enjoy your trip to Kazan.

Bassel Nadim

For more photos please read the TravelPod version

باب المنارة

2010-08-20T02:27:00.007+04:00

شاركت في مسابقة الشيخ منصور بن محمد للتصوير الضوئي في دبي بثلاث صور سأنشرها تباعاً. الصورة المرفقة هنا تدعى باب المنارة.

تعبر المنارة عن العودة و "اللقيا" في ثقافة البحر التجردية. لكن بابها ما زال رمزاً مهمشاً بالرغم من أن عبره يدخل الكشاف نفسه ويجلب خلاله وقود الإضاءة. يرمز باب المنارة إلى الخطوة الأولى للإنسان الحاضر في مساعدة ذاك المجهول القادم من البعيد

باسل نديم

The untrodden ways!

2010-07-30T23:07:00.005+04:00

With association of TravelPod

Dubai is renowned for its splendid cityscape, shopping extravaganza, and fascinating attractions inspired by contemporary architect. Urbanization in Dubai makes you surprised to know that the city lies over sands!. Come and join the trip beyond the boundaries of the city, the desert.

A well equipped 4X4 vehicle drove us up and down into the unlimited sand waves. Once the car engine turned off, a new world emerged where echoes of silence break the silence. The journey begins.

Once I reached my destination I rode a camel and the guide headed towards the tourist camp. Some people were sand-boarding, a few ladies were putting Hinna, local dye, on their hands, and others were playing over the sands. However, I wanted to avoid the camp for a while and unifying myself with the nature, I asked the guide to surf away through the dunes. I sat up the hill watching the red sun fading slowly beyond the horizon while the twilight is was conquering the place.

I went back to the camp, it was dinner time, a traditional food of rice and meat was being served with yogurt. It is a habit here that the more you eat the higher appreciation you show to your host. It was a heavy meal compared to my regime, yet delicious. Drinking coffee after food is a known routine, the aroma of the hot Arabic coffee refreshes the breath, consider the test though... It is a convention that the coffee-man will keep pouring the coffee until the guest shakes the cup three times!

The evening entertainment programme started with some local song, then a man briefed us on some fascinating facts about the life in the desert, followed by telling a few local stories which were rich of wisdom and great human values.

The weather became chillier, I came into the tent and relaxed on the woolen carpets and cochins nearby the fire stove. Everyone was attempting not to interrupt the calm of the magical night. Staring at the looming disarray of stars is another magical thing to do. Someone would not believe that ancient nations used stars to map the way. What a GPS!

Dozens of things to recall.. memories remain.

Selling your used mobile…Ten secrets of the trade

2010-03-08T12:35:00.004+04:00

Was also published on Buzzle.com

Selling and buying used mobiles attracts wide segment of people, thousands and thousands of deals take place every day. In most cases mobile holders would sell their own as a result of buying a new device. Why don’t you learn some secrets of the trade and attain a higher price of selling your used mobile set.

Secret 1: Think market
Getting a good deal of selling a used mobile starts even before buying the mobile itself. Think of buying a set which enjoys active trading market. Avoid purchasing unbranded mobile devices or sophisticated sets. Try to buy recent models in order to ascertain that your mobile is not outdated when selling it.

Secret 2: Keep them!
Do you know that one reason of being happy with your new mobile is unpacking the device. This is it! Keep all plastic bags, original box, cables, catalogs, manuals and stickers in a safe place. Do not forget to keep the original warranty certificate and any other important document such as the device insurance and the invoice.

Secret 3: Be careful

No need to remind you to keep an eye on your mobile, use it carefully. A suitable cover will really protect the device from scratches and hits.

Learn also how to use the key pad shortcuts, this will reduce the pressure of using the mobile’s ball or mouse - the first checked part by any potential client.

Secret 4: Time to sell

Aim at selling your mobile prior to the expiry of the warranty certificate, if applicable. This would create an immense effect on the re-sale value.

Make the mobile available for sale. Export your contacts and files from device. There is no better deal than selling a ready-to-sell mobile.

Secret 5: A fair price

Asking for a fair price is a key factor. Like any other trading activity the price shall satisfy both you and your client needs. Research the prices of similar band new mobiles, prices of the upgraded models of the one you have, and also check the prices of similar used mobiles.

Adjust the price in a way that reflects your mobile conditions, and accommodate a cushion for a discount. You may add a premium on the price against offering some accessories such as memory disk and headset.

Secret 6: Effective selling campaign

Once you decide to sell you have to advertise widely on community boards, free weekend commercials, and local related websites. Specify some key technical features such as the model, the memory size, the video functions and the communication facilities. Do not forget to mention the availability of its original package. Also insert high quality photo of the mobile, check the manufacturer if you don’t have one. Plan to keep mobile shops as your last client option as they offer lower price than expected from a deal with individual client.

Secret 7: Re-pack the mobile set

Try your best to offer your mobile in excellent conditions. Bring the mobile with its original package. Providing the original packing when selling the mobile, would give good feelings to the buyer. Your mobile will seem more appealing and reasonably used.

Secret 8: Settings

Make sure that the battery is charged to make the mobile ready for testing. Activate nice and high tune melody as clients will test the speakers second, the first tested part is the mobile’s mouse. Resort the original settings of to make the mobile appears as those new ones and select bright screen settings.

Secret 9: Confidence

Give the expected client his sweet time to test the device as this would create confidence in your mobile quality. Share with client any problem in the mobile and be open for a discount if your price is higher than the market prevailing rates.

Secret 10: Feedback

If you are selling through a website, ask your client to kindly write a positive feedback on your web profile, this will help in sustaining good image and concluding future deals.

Enjoy using your mobile and have a good deal of selling it later.

Bassel Nadim

المجلس الأعلى للبطاطا

2010-03-01T23:04:00.004+04:00

وجدت دراسة حديثة أن تناول البطاطا يحسن الحالة النفسية، وأضافت أن أشخاص العينة المدروسة قد استعادوا هدوءهم النفسي بعد عشرين دقيقة من أكلهم للبطاطا المقلية، و قد عزا التقرير ذلك إلى مكونات الكربوهيدرات التي تؤثر إيجاباً في كيمياء الدماغ والشعور بالبهجة الذي يحدثه طعم البطاطا المقلية و رائحتها.

ليس المهم في هذه الدراسة التعرف على فائدة البطاطا فقد اعتدنا على صدور دراسات غذائية متعددة و متناقضة، بل المهم هو الممول للدراسة نفسها و هو مجلس البطاطا !!

يعتبر مجلس البطاطا جمعية بريطانية شبه حكومية تهتم بشؤون البطاطا من بذار و حصد وتسويق و تجارة و تكنولوجيا. لا يعمل مجلس البطاطا بمفرده على الساحة "البطاطية" العالمية فهناك أيضاً المركز الدولي للبطاطا في البيرو، الموطن الأصلي للبطاطا، و المجلس الوطني للبطاطا في أمريكا

إن غنى البطاطا بالكربوهيدرات، و احتوائهاعلى مستوى عالٍ من فيتامين سي والبوتاسيوم والبروتين يجلعها تقف جنباً إلى جنب مع المحاصيل الزراعية الاستراتيجية الأخرى كالقمح و الأرز و الذرة. و تمتاز البطاطا في إمكانية زرعها في الترب و المناخات القاسية، كما أنها تتكاثر بوفرة في مساحة صغيرة من الأرض، كما أن حبات البطاطا أقل عرضة للتلف لأنها تزرع و تنمو تحت الأرض. لقد ساعد غياب سوق بورصة دولية لعقود البطاطا على استقرار أسعارها خلال موجة المضاربات على أسعار المواد الغذائية التي قادتها بعض صناديق الاستثمار و صنادق التحوط خلال العام 2008

و يُعد من البطاطا وجبات طعام مختلفة حول العام فهي تستخدم في الباستا بايطاليا و تطبخ مع الموز في كوستاريكا، وتوضع مع الأرز في إيران ، وتقلى مع الباذنجان في بلاد الشام و مع الفاصولياء في أثوبيا، و يعد منها السلطة بالخضار أو المهروسة "بيريه" في فرنسا، وتغلى مع السمك المدخن في حساء أهل شمال سكوتلاندا، و تشوى في سهرات الليل والتخييم حول العالم. وكلما كان هناك طعاماً سريعاً، كان هناك.... بطاطا

حصد مزارعو البطاطا في عام ٢٠٠٧ ما يزيد على ٣٢٥ مليون طن، تعد الصين المصدر الأول حيث تزرع 23% من محصول البطاطا في العالم. في المقابل تعتبر أوربا المنطقة الأكثر استهلاكاً للبطاطا حيث يبلغ متوسط استهلاك الفرد 88 كغ للشخص الواحد متغلبة بذلك على متوسط استهلاك الفرد في أمريكا عاصمة وجبات الهمبورغر والبطاطا والبالغ 60 كغ للشخض. ما زالت البلدان النامية تستورد من الخارج حوالي 6 إلى 7 مليار دولار من البطاطا لتعويض النقص في تلبية الطلب الداخلي. فبالرغم من أهميتها كغذاء أساسي في محاربة الجوع والفقر، ما زالت البطاطا تتعرض للتجاهل في سياسات التنمية الزراعية في البلدان النامية

لقد أصدرت منظمة الفاو للغذاء كتاباً مصوراً بعنوان "إضاءة جديدة على الكنز الدفين" يسجل إنجازاتها "البطاطلية" و يؤكد على دورها دورها الحيوي في تعزيز الأمن الغذائي العالمي والتخفيف من وطأة الفقر.

إذاً للبطاطا أهمية كبرى تعاكس مدلوها الرمزي في أنها كناية عن العمل غير المتقن، و ربما ستجدها قد تحولت إلالقد حان الوقت للنظر بفخر إلى نداءات الباعة الجوالين في أسواق الشام، و لتصبح عبارة بطاطا يا بطاطا.. ريِانة يا بطاطا شعاراً لكل زارع بطاطا في العالم.

Bassel Nadim

من أفروديت إلى أبوظبي

2010-02-12T19:24:00.016+04:00

منشورة أيضاً على موقع الساخر

قراءة مغايرة عن الحب

لست ممن يحتفلون بعيد الحب بمعناه الرمزي الشكلي، لكني أحتفل مع من أحب بالمعنى المجازي الجمالي. بيد من أحب قد أخذت من نحب و هي تمضي وقتاً مع من يحبونها ويحبوه أيضاً.. فهي مع ابننا في زيارة للأهل في دمشق.

و في هذه المناسبة "الحبية" قررت أن أطلع على سبب وجود هذا العيد و تسميته. لقد وجدت عدة قصص متضاربة عن عيد الحب تتمحور حول شخصيتين مختلفتين تحملان نفس الاسم وهو فالانتين. لعل الأشهر من تلك القصص هي ما حدث في أوربا خلال الحقبة الرومانية مع قس كان يرتب عقود الزواج لجنود روما في فترة قد منع خلالها امبراطور روما الجنود من الزواج كي لا تتأثر قوة الجيش، وتنتهي القصة بإرسال فالانتين برسالة حب ليلة إعدامه بسبب مخالفته للتعليمات الامبراطورية. لقد وجدت في قصة فالنتين تلك الكثير الظلم التاريخي لرموز أخرى للحب تبدو أكثر جزالة و قوة ورومانس

على سبيل المثال نجد في الأسطورة الشرقية أفروديت رمزاً للحب و الجمال. ولدت أفروديت من زبد البحر و كانت عذراء طويلة جميلة عارية ومبتلة، رفعتها الامواج و نقلتها جياد بوسيدون البيضاء إلى جزيرة سيثيرا، و حيث سارت هناك انقلب العشب إلى رمل و أزهار مبرعمة، وامتلاً الجو بالطيور. أقدمت جميع الرموز الأسطورية على حبها فجلبوا لها الهدايا العظيمة، وهبها أبولو، سيد الشمس والجمال والرجولة، عرشاً و تاجاً من أشد ذهب الشمس حرارة، وعربة ذهبية تجرها البجعات البيضاء وكما قدم لها أيضاً الخدم والمغنين. أما بوسيدون، سيد البحار، فقد وهبها المغاور وعالم الألغاز والجواهر والسفوح الجميلة والبحارى الغرقى والأعاصير و غروب الشمس. أما هرمس، سيد التجارة و الطرق، فقد جعلها ملكة مفترقات الطرق لتعلم الناس العابرة الحب فلا يصيبهم الضجر.

لعمل أهم ما في هذه الأسطورة هو التقاطر الشديد للرموز العليا في ذالك المجتمع الأسطوري على أفروديت طالبين هيامها والزواج منها. لكن أفروديت عشقت رمزاً واحداً هو هيفاستوس، سيد الحدادين الأعرج، أحبته أفرويت لأنه كان صالحاً، أحبته لأنه كان يعمل بجد ونشاط ليل نهار ليصنع الآلة والسيف و العربة و المنجل. من الحق بمكان القول أن تلك الأسطورة تسمو بالقيم الايجابية كالالتزام الأسري والصلاح والعمل في سياق العلاقات العاطفية بين الرموز الأسطورية و مجتمعات النخبة و السادة أمام المعنى الشكلاني لإرسال فالنتين لبطاقة حب في ليلة إعدامه.

اما لأنصار شكل الحب أمام جوهره فاقترح عليهم قضاء عطلة عيد الحب في فندق قصر الإمارات الفاخر في أبوظبي على ضفاف الخليج والماء الذي خرجت من مثيله أفروديت. لقد أعد الفندق برنامجاً خاصاً يتضمن توفير سيارة ميباخ للزوجين لتجول مريح في المدينة ونقلهم إلى المطار كي يستقلان الطائرة الخاصة إلى البحر الاحمر للغطس هناك وإلى الطائرة المروحية للقيام بجولة فوق محميات للحياة البرية في الجزر المتناثرة قبالة سواحل إمارة أبوظبي وفوق الكثبان الرملية في الربع الخالي. إضافة إلى عشاء فريد من على شرفة جناحهم وتحت النجوم وعشاء رومسني آخر على مركب شراعي يخمر عباب مياه الخليج. يريح هذا العرض من ضرورة شراء الزوجين السعيدين للباس مناسب حيث سيكون بانتظارهم و في جناحهم الخاص مصممي أزياء من دار كريستيان ديور الباريسي مع عطارين لتركيب عطر خاص يحمل اسم النزلاء. ما على الزوج إلا العمل مثل هيفاستوس لسداد مبلغ مليون دولار ثمناً لهذا العرض الأسطوري أيضاً.

أعان الله المحبين و العشاق، و أبعدنا عن طقوس العشاق الشكلية، وهدانا إلى حبه ومن أمرنا بحبهم.

باسل

قصة افروديت: كتاب ميثولوجيا الأبطال و الآلهة و الوحوش لبرنارد ايفلسن.

E-Relief

2010-01-25T00:16:00.002+04:00

Another "e" from Google

Hundreds of websites around the globe reacted to Haiti earthquake by furnishing links, news and photos on the devastated city and voicing appeals for humanitarian help and support. Online relief initiatives tend to offer services consistent with the nature of sponsor’s original business. For example, news sites tend to offer special coverage on the crisis and its consequences. On the other hand, tens of banks enable donating facilities on their websites, while many charities are asking for used staff to be dispatched to the needed people. Google, nevertheless, approached the crisis differently by introducing The Crisis Response for Haiti and bring the interaction all.

The crisis response is a webpage customized to Haiti earthquake, a portal which brings all necessary functions to the fingerprints of people interested in that humanitarian tragedy. The platform allows users to dial free voice call, read news, watch clips and images, find people, donate money and share video clips, photos and information.

What’s new in Google Crisis Response is brining everything under one page instead of the scattered initiatives on different websites. This is not a technical move in web design, rather, it is a new development in how search engines becoming more effective in the digital world by gradually shifting from being a natural meduim for data exchange towards affecting the way we feel, perceive and interact with the world surrounding us.

Calculate Your Personal Zakat

2010-01-03T20:18:00.004+04:00

Recent economic developments change the way people conduct their personal finance, Zakat is no exception. Get answers to the buzzing Zakat questions now.

Was also published on WikiHow.com.

Step 1: Calculate the Nisab
Nisab is equal to the value of 80 Gram of pure gold priced at prevailing market rate at the time of calculating. You need to use this in step number 7

Step 2: Define your Zakat Cycle Dates

As Zakat is an annual financial duty, starting and ending dates of your Zakat cycle shall be clearly defined.

   - The starting date is set once your Zakat pool (see step 6) excesses the Nisab limit (step 1)

   - The ending date (or effective date) is set as a year after the starting date.

Example: if one gram of pure gold costs US$ 30, then the starting date is when your Zakat pool equals the Nisab (80 Gram X US$30 = US$ 2400) let’s assume it is 21-3-2010, then your ending date (effective date) is 20-30-2011

Step 3: Update Your Financial Status

Prepare an updated information of your wealth items priced as per the market (actual) value on the effective date

Step 4: Identify Your Zakat Assets

Zakat assets are what you actually own on the Zakat effective date. You have to sum up all wealth items you own. Some examples are:

   - Cash: any type of cash ready cash, current accounts, saving accounts, fixed deposits as stated in your bank statement.

   - Securities: shares, stocks, mutual fund units, bonds and sukuk valuated at the closing price in the stock market.

   - Your current account in a company which you are a partner in

   - Saving plans: the surrender value of your saving plans

   - Gold investments: as per the market value

If there is any amount of money which proposed to be received during the concerned Zakat cycle but not yet happened, then you have to add the expected value to the Zakat assets.

Note: Your personal belongings such as a home or a car are not considered as Zakat assets.

Step 5: Identify Your Zakat Liabilities

Zakat liabilities are your financial obligations. Any obligation which you had satisfied during the concerned cycle requires no more consideration. Nevertheless, if there is any amount of money that was proposed to be paid during the concerned Zakat cycle but you did not do yet, then you have to add the expected value to your Zakat liabilities.

If you had obtained a personal loan of any type (car, home, cash) then you have to consider the installments that you have to pay during the following Zakat cycle.

Note: You have nothing to do with entire outstanding debt.

Step 6: Calculate the Zakat Pool

Zakat pool = Zakat assets (step 4) minus Zakat liabilities (step 5)

Step 7: Compare to Nisab

If the result of the Zakat pool (step 6) exceeds Nisab limit (step 1) then you have to dispose Zakat as shown in step 8.

Step 8: Calculate Your Zakat Duty

Zakat dues = Zakat pool (step 7) X 2.557% The result is your Zakat that you have to dispose.

Zakat ratio is 2.5% if the Zakat cycle is calculated using the Hagirae calendar while it is 2.557% if using the Gregorian calendar.

Tips

Your personal home and car are not considered, as shown in step 4.
The value of a car or a home that you rent out to others is also not considered. However, the income generated by any investment is considered as shown in step 4.
Any income generated from non shariah compliant source, i.e. interest of bonds, is not considered. However, the value of any conventional financial obligation is considered as shown in step 5.
Your Zakat calculation will not be affected if you pool goes below the Nisab limit during the concerned Zakat cycle as long as the pool on the effective date meets the requirements shown in step 7.

The Untold Benefits of Driving in Traffic Jam

2010-01-01T17:24:00.006+04:00

Traffic congestion annoys every one. To figure out how much time spent on wheels, let’s assume a working scheme of 5 day a week, 9 hour a day. On an average estimate, long-time drivers may lose 27 calendar day per year which is equal to 73 working day.

However, have you considered some advantages of being stacked beyond the steering wheel? Create a piece of hope and realize the untold benefits of driving in traffic jam.

Was also published on buzzle.com

Driving in traffic jam is a complete stressful experience. In big cities, it may take up to two and half hour a day to commute from home to work and vice versa, sometime even longer. In the morning you are running the risk of being late or missing an important meeting. While in the evening you are coming back home tired with a family awaiting you.

To figure out how much time spent on wheels, let’s assume a working scheme of 5 day a week, 9 hour a day. On an average estimate, long-time drivers may lose 27 calendar day per year which is equal to 73 working day. It seems a considerable amount of time.

This article does not aim at briefing on the negative effects of being stacked beyond the steering wheel, nor to describe daily stress and agony, rather, to reveal some competencies that long-time drivers may earn!!

Enhancing time management skills
Long-time drivers eke time from any second that can be saved. They learn how to carefully set any appointment and how to calculate the period required to commute across the city. They learn the alternative routes and the quickest lanes. They can better assess the breakeven point of the cost of leaving late (or earlier) against the benefits of driving less.

Elevating the inner power
Long driving absorbs energy. Human body nature tends to adapt to external circumstances by producing internal stimulus. The body would elevate the level of stamina and improve the moral and physical strength to resist fatigue and hardship. Long driving also increases the endurance and patience profile and unleashes the passion to drive in order to reach the final destination safely with sufficient power to continue the day.

Improving stress management skills
Managing every day stress is a unique capability to face daily life pressure. Long time divers learn how to interact with being late situations, being observed by the traffic police and being at ease of asking to postpone a meeting for certain time. Moreover, long-time drivers may develop methods to queuing waiting time, starting from simple techniques such tuning on the radio, to modest ones such acting carelessly to the congestion and staring astray through the window towards more sophisticated techniques in elevating the soul above the body trying to disconnect the relationship between the body and the mind.

Boosting innovation
In desperate attempts to relief the burden of time while driving, drivers always explore new ways and tricks. Talking over the mobile with friends and family and completing phone services through call centers are increasingly in use. Requesting bank statements, applying for services, arranging a trip and booking a hotel have achieved good results in compensating the waste of time while on roads.

Learning from audio books or i-pod is another innovative way. Listing in the car perceived to be an important factor for alternative publishing agencies who are trying to produce material that fit long driving conditions in terms of topics, simplicity and duration. However, talking and learning are only two examples of too many choices such as eating and dirking, making up, preparing the tie, reading and even checking emails on 3G mobiles .

Awareness of the community
When driving slowly, you will be having time to check banners, posters and listening to local news. You may participate in the traffic sensors slots on local radio stations.

Developing ultra communication skills
Drivers are able to communicate between each other while taking over or escaping the queue. The light, the signal and the bib are new expressions in the non-verbal non-body language communication modes. Long time drivers develop the ability to listen to radio, talking on the mobile, or even reading while keeping a careful eye on the road. This may lead to advancing the persons’ perception power.

Generating income
This benefit belongs to road authorities and municipalities who may introduce tolling system to cross traffic-free roads, as well as also licensing shops and other type of retail windows along congested highways.

Big sympathy for long-time drivers, nothing compensates health and peace of mind, but some room of hope may help.

Fancy a car!

2009-12-18T22:48:00.009+04:00

Fancy a car! Are you considering financing a car ? Want a start-up pack of ideas on getting a loan?

Was also published on buzzle.com

Buying a car is an important decision for the family. You may consider financing your car by applying for a car loan or an auto loan from a bank or a financing company. The financer will transfer the money to the dealership. Then you have to pay back the car value in addition to the interest amount during the period of the loan (tenor). Some financiers may require a down payment. The financer will hold a lien on the car as collateral.

Car loan advantages

Financing your car by a loan would achieve the following benefits:
You will not pay an ample amount of money upfront. Instead, manageable monthly installments will be paid.
The real monthly burden will be declining while your future income is increasing and the inflation is reducing the real value of installment.
Keeping your savings aside for rainy days and not to use to buy the car.
You can also enjoy a bit better car than what you can afford by cash today. Please keep the monthly installment in line with your income.

On the other hand, car loans have many disadvantages:

Obtaining a loan implies paying an extra money as interest this ranges from 4% - 6% of the car original price per year. In addition to the loan processing fees
When a loan is obtained, the car lien will prevent you from disposing the car or traveling aboard unless the financer consent is obtained.
If you want to pay off the entire balance of the loan, an early redemption fees will be charged.

Get the best deal

Try to do and achieve the following:

Decide on the tenor as per your needs and family size. Remember that selling the car earlier during the financing period entails early redemption charges.
Search local newspapers and industry magazines for financing deals.
Financing products vary according to the car age, your age, and the level of your proven income. Make sure you are comparing relevant deals.
Make sure you know the processing fees and any hidden charges i.e. filing charges.
Be aware of the money illusion represents in paying less monthly installment if you paid a down payment. What you save by paying a down payment is the interest amount of it. If the down payment is 20% and the annual interest rate is 5%, then you will be saving 1% of the car price per year. Consider this in your calculation.
Try to get other services the financer is offering such as a free credit card or a free account.
Apply for a limited life insurance cover i.e. the insurance policy will pay off the car outstanding debt in the unlikely events.
Consider selling the car once you pay off the loan. The selling price would equal or exceed the interest amount you have already paid. Practically, you may end up buying the car on installments for free.

To sum up, car loans have many disadvantages but with proper understanding to the terms and by getting the other services the financier provide, a good deal is achieved.

The eyes of truth are always watching you

2009-12-02T19:51:00.008+04:00

How the mechanisms of reading your thoughts have been evolving from a simple questionnaire towards observing-on-the-go.

Surveying people is a widely use method to identify qualitative attitudes toward a product, a concept, or even an idea. How have the used techniques been evolving in terms of sampling and observing? How does everyone become observed?

A simple form of surveying is a Focus Group where a group of people are asked about their attitude towards a certain concern. Questions are asked in an interactive manner while the moderators are taking notes and recording. Another form of surveying people is asking a larger size of the community using a structured questionnaire. Practitioners of such methods are proud of recording and observing every single word and gesture in action, but are ignoring Reactivity Effect.

Postmodern psychology argues the Reactivity Effect which stimulates individuals to alter their performance or behavior if they are being observed. The closer the observation is, the higher the deterioration in the quality of data and the bias towards the prevailing norms and acceptable practices in the society.

The observation techniques evolve to encounter that effect. Innovative methods have been designed and varied depending on the objectives of the observation. The first evolution wave focuses on hiding the observer from the scene. Mystery shopping is a good example. It models as normal customer performing specific task such as buying or browsing, and then report back the clients' behavior as well as the clerks. Surveillance camera can also help to assess how customers buy their products. The above methods are more suitable to retail products or services. Your hands on goods and your walk in the store's corridors are observed and understood.

The second evolution wave managed to increase the distance between the observer and the scene. It focuses on analyzing the results in order to predict the originating behavior. Innovative methods were adopted. For instance, analyzing the garbage of certain residential area gives solid indicators of the products in use, brand awareness and consumption timing. This method, however, is more applicable to physical products. Another interesting example is graffiti analyzing. Graffiti is the name for images or lettering scratched, scrawled, painted or marked. Its analysis conveys indicators of the un-told and un-expressed attitude and desires in a certain segment of the society. If you are alone in a toilette, and you graphed an innuendo, somebody else will capture it and cross analyzed it with other incidents and will realize something hidden in the subconscious.

Recent developments in technology have opened a wide space to observe more larger number of people remotely. Our payments over cards trace our spending pattern, timing and type of products and services we acquire. Mobile sets signify the holders' location while the calls log tells whom the holder has called and when.

Internet users are also being observed. The unique interaction the internet space makes the user at ease in expressing his needs and desire. Mouse clicks and cookies vote for the topics of interest, and cascade the issues of concerns. E-trace infrastructure offer comprehensive data. The amount of collected information is absolutely powerful and touches everyone's life. The generated reports are vital to market research companies and opinion making centers.

Never think that you are anonymous on the internet. I will even know that you reading my article. The second part of this article will highlight the reality of the privacy policies and give you a facility to find out what others know about you. Keep your eyes "of truth" opened.

Bassel Nadim

How many Nadims?!

2009-11-02T01:46:00.002+04:00

How many Nadims around the world? I mean how many people have Nadim as a surname.

In my last visit to Damascus I counted 33 Nadims in my close family. Well, I tried a fancy attempt to count how many Nadims worldwide. Rest assured there is no hidden agenda, a treasure, a Nigerian well, or any outstanding debt. However, if you are a Nadim then you will be invited to Nadim Cyberclub once established.… not bad emmm!

This is not my first attempt to count Nadims. The first try was 25 years ago when I looked for Nadims in the thick phone directory searching for new family members who may have more interesting kids to play with. The second attempt was in the year 1999 when I purchased a CD for all phone directories in Syria, I found many Nadims living in the eastern region.

The same “searchophopia” attack came back again. I decided to explore the top 3 virtual networks the Facebook, Linkedin and Windows Live. It was not an easy job to read hundreds of profiles to exert some information. Actually, the Facebook does not facilitate people search by surname. As a result, I found myself reading more that 500 profiles in order to filter out non-Nadims. I discovered a secret, Facebook search engine only provides 500 unique results only and then repeat the rest of the results. Linkedin and Windows Live have the facility of searching by surname, they were more efficient.

My search shows they are 110 Nadims approximately on Facebook, 70 Nadims on Linkedin and as much as 421 Nadims on Windows Live. Initially there are 601 names of which 44 were recognized as duplicated, let’s say 100 duplicated names instead, so it will end up by 501 registered Nadims. Assuming that each Nadim represents 5 off-line Nadims, then it is estimated that there are 2500 Nadims globally…. Yureeka

Most of the Nadims are residing in the France and India. Considerable members are located in the UK, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Canada, UAE, Iraq, Iran, and Italy. Few of them are living in UAE and Brazil. Nadims are working in different professions mostly in media, art and legal services.

I have really enjoyed reading the profile of some people who are holding similar names to my family ones: Marwan, Hanan, Anas, Rasha, and even Bassel. I also found Nadim Farouk and Nadim Ammar... yet not counted, but they hold the revised names of my father and brother, consequently.

I wonder from where did those Nadims come from? What is the individual story of each one of them? What are their dreams and passion? May we have the chance to communicate and expand Nadim family website forever.

Nadim 147

لا تحلفيني بالشنب

2009-10-27T23:30:00.006+04:00

بالرغم من التيار العام في حلق الشوارب، أو تربية السكسوكة بأشكالها، إلا أنه ما زالت الشوارب رمز الرجولة عند الرجل الشرقي. ازداد الادراك اللاواعي للشوارب مع عودتها إلى الأحداث الاجتماعية اليومية في الدراما السورية. في مسلسل أيام شامية يضع محمود الفوال شعراً من شواربه رهناً لدين قدره 15 ليرة ذهبية و هو أغرب رهن في عالم التمويل. كما لعب شكل الشارب دوراً في تجسيد شخصيات ذاع صيتها مؤخراً فمن شوارب أبو شهاب الملفوفة حادة الأطراف، و شوارب رئيس المخفر أبو جودت المتعالي الكثة، إلى شوارب البائع الهندي الطماع الهتلرية الشكل في كرتون فريج الإماراتي.

لكن الصيت للشرق و الفعل للغرب! فقد تأسس في أمريكا من عدة سنوات معهد الشوارب الأمريكي و هدفه جعل الشوارب صيحة من جديد و خلق مناخ تقبل وتفهم لحملة الشوارب في العالم. و قد بين تقرير حديث للمعهد صدر مطلع هذا الأسبوع أن أصحاب الشوارب يجنون دخلاً 4.3 % أكثر من زملائهم حليقي الوجه دون تبيان عن أي وظائف يتحدث عنها هذا التقرير. للمعهد أيضاً دراسات خاصة عن أشكال الشوارب المتعددة و حددها في عدة مجموعات منها: سلفادورية، انكليزية، حدوة، كونفو، أميرية، رفيعة، طويلة... كما له نشيد خاص و برنامج جوائز سنوي. إن باب الانتساب مفتوح للجميع بغض النظر عن طول شاربه.

ما زالت الفرصة سانحة لنا في الشرق لتأسيس معاهد للسكسوكة أو الذقن أو اللحية أو السوالف أو حتى معهد شوارب منافس و أصلي. كما نقترح دبلجة مسلسل أيام شامية ليكون مرجع رئيسي للأعضاء حول العالم.

Memories remain… plastic bags too

2009-10-24T22:02:00.004+04:00

A plastic bag was thrown!? This was in 1999 on the tree opposite to my family’s balcony back home. My life has been evolving, the tree has been growing, and people shadows have been passing and passing over that place. Only that plastic bag remained.

Plastic is not biodegradable, it may take up 600 years for full decomposition, that’s why they are increasingly occupying our space, water, land and surroundings.

There is more than 150,000 ton of plastic waste being recycled in UAE every year, not sure about the entire quantity that being used and left astray everywhere. The government has highlighted this concern in its strategy and started two recent major initiatives aiming at reducing the negative environmental impacts of plastic bags waste. The first one was a three-year campaign launched by the Ministry of Environment and Water. The second was by Ajman government with a vision of replacing plastic bags by fabric ones, and to observe plastic production.

War on plastic bags shall start from hyper markets; I am usually given 2-3 bags for a purchase of AED 15 (US$ 4). I feel proud of carrying these flourishing bags in my hands, yet I start to feel anxious. Few months ago, a major retailer in UAE has introduced environment-friendly bags for AED 1 each, and in order to reduce the financial burden on consumers, checkout clerks tend to put too many goods in one bag, thus ending the shopping experience from holding too many free “flourish” bags to few paid ones. Customers went unsatisfied and pressured the movement back.

Having presented that example, we have to imagine the huge efforts required to convert consuming habits. I am proposing a mechanism to sustain awareness and gradual transformation of shopping “rituals” in that regard. Retailers will charge a little amount of money on providing plastic bags. This would help reducing the quantity used, and generate extra income that will be divided between the shop and the government. The later will use the fund to expand awareness campaign and highlight participants’ names as partners in scheme.

It is hard to see one-use-off plastic bags sharing our space forever. Memories remain… plastic bags too.

Shisha-free Community

2009-10-10T18:24:00.003+04:00

How many of us get annoyed by shisha smoke or by the coal pot passing dangerously while dinning out?. Despite the governmental initiatives to cut off “shisha emissions” plenty of restaurants still serving it to satisfy the demand, sadly!.

Several restaurants, however, keep themselves away of the coal and focus more on the menu and the cousin experience. It is our duty to praise them, the page’s right side bar shows some examples of shisha- free restaurants. Share yours too and keep the ball rolling.

A New Cyberspace

2009-10-09T23:10:00.004+04:00

It was my dream!! In 1991 I wrote a fiction story called the Jumper, a man who was able to appear in any place of the world by implementing the quantum physics theory. In the year 1997, I was too much existed to learn about emails, your address whenever you go around the world. It was my first virtual world action in 2002 when I had created my own cyberman server using some tools of Yahoo. Few years later, I carried out several attempts to have myself published, the most successful one was Live from Dubai Blogging powered by the good old guys at Sony Ericsson. Now, I am inspired again to enrich my cyber world and mobility by integrating blogging power, Blackberry and Windows Vista to be as close to you as far as the globe is!!! I will fly!

Bassel

مبادرات الانعاش الاقتصادي في الإمارات العربية المتحدة

2009-07-11T23:56:00.007+04:00

نشرت جمعية المحاسبين و مدققي الحسابات الإماراتية في مجلتها "المحاسب" في ابريل 2009 مقالاً لي عن مبادرات الإنعاش الاقتصادي في الإمارات العربية المتحدة. استعرضت المقالة السياسات المتاحة للسلطات الاقتصادية في التعامل مع الأزمة الراهنة بشكل عام، و من ثم تناولت ما قامت به دولة الإمارات من مبادرات اقتصادية عبر السياسات النقدية و المالية لمعالجة منعكسات الأزمة المالية على اقتصادها المحلي.

احصل على نسخة من المقال

I have a baby!

2009-06-01T01:31:00.003+04:00

God granted me and my wife Roula a baby boy today..

Dubai

31-05-2009

The Islamic Finance and the Financial Crisis

2009-05-08T13:25:00.006+04:00

I spoke in the Islamic finance forum in Dubai in April 2009. My paper reviewed the reasons for the crisis and how such an event would not take place if the financial sector was following the Sharia rules and AAOIFI standards. The paper, nevertheless, has argued the sufficiency of the Islamic finance standards in sustaining the so called crisis-free economy, and has highlighted some issues that shall be considered in the post-crisis future debates.

Download the full paper

Umrah

2008-10-22T15:48:00.000+04:00

I carried out the Umrah. It was a great spiritual and religious experience which I hope everyone to do.

CIPA

2007-11-18T11:00:00.001+04:00

I became certified Islamic professional accountant CIPA. The certificate is awarded by the accounting and auditing organization for Islamic financial institutions AAOIFI in Bahrain.

Riverside hotel in Johannesburg

2007-07-26T13:25:00.002+04:00

River Side Hotel

2007-07-23T09:59:00.001+04:00

My car broke down

2007-05-31T18:56:00.001+04:00

Live from Abu Dhabi

Life!

2007-03-11T19:58:00.000+04:00

The Oldest Client in the Mega Mall

2007-03-10T17:50:00.000+04:00

Retail ME Awards 2006 Winners

2007-02-19T23:36:00.000+04:00

Retail ME Awards 2006

2007-02-19T23:23:00.000+04:00

Classical music

2007-02-11T22:34:00.000+04:00

Mouhaned turns into shadi!!

2007-01-26T18:31:00.000+04:00

Bye bye

2007-01-21T16:20:00.000+04:00

Lunch time at Wagamama:-P

On the Go Blog

2007-01-20T23:43:00.000+04:00

At work!!

Great news... this picture was directly sent from my mobile. I can blog on- the- go now. Thanks to my new mobile from Sony Ericsson

i-mate... an ugly mate!

2007-01-18T17:24:00.002+04:00

I am really fed up of my i-mate mobile and its Windows application. While I used to keep my old mobile sets for rainy days, I am eager to sell this out .

Dubai Marathon

2007-01-17T11:41:00.000+04:00

Dubai Marathon... The Passion to Run

It was 06:20 early morning on 12 January 07 when you can find me at Dubai Marathon race. This is the earliest time ever you can see me awake outside the airport, since the good old university days.

Dubai Marathon is organized by Standard Charted Bank every year. It is an event to raise fund and donated money for charity organizations as well as promoting athletics in the UAE.

Deloitte, my company, has sponsored its team participation. Can’t you see Deloitte logo on my cap and shirt?!

I can not pretend that I ran the entire 10 KM, but I did run enough to be listed among the first 300 “heroes” out of the 3000 participants.

After the Marathon we went to a gala breakfast at Moore, in Moroj Rotana hotel. I was too much hungry. Sorry no pictures… our hands were busy in eating!!

Come and Join the Marathon next year

Bassel Nadim - 2015

Gulf Photo Plus 2006

2006-01-17T01:26:00.000+04:00

Gulf Photo Plus 2006

I have participated to the Gulf Photo Plus 2006 Competition. Why don't you come along and look at my photos.All you have to do is Click here.

I hope you enjoy my Gallery...

توصية للحد من إقامة الأجانب في دول الخليج العربي

2005-11-27T01:08:00.001+04:00

توصية بالحد من إقامة العمالة الاجنبية في دول الخليج العربي لمدة ستة سنوات على الأكثر

للحقيقة وجهان، على الأقل

تداولت وكالات الانباء ما أقره وزراء العمل والشؤون الاجتماعية بدول مجلس التعاون الخليجي، في ختام اجتماعاتهم في البحرين الاربعاء، رفع توصية إلى المجلس الأعلى لقادة دول المجلس ينص على تحديد حد أعلى لبقاء العامل الأجنبي في دول المجلس، بحيث لا يسمح باستمرار العامل في عمله أكثر من 6 سنوات كحد أقصى. ويستثني القرار التخصصات التي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنها والتي لا يتوفر فيها مواطنين من نفس البلد لشغلها. يضيف الخبر مبررات لهذه التوصية يمكن تلخيصها بالنقاط التالية:

حماية الاقتصادات الخليجية المحلية من خروج 25 مليار دولار سنوياً على شكل حوالات .
التخلص من مشكلة البطالة في دول الخليج العربي .
تفادي التغيير الديموغرافي الكبير .
الحفاظ على الهوية العربية و الإسلامية .

لقد انتهجت دول الخليج سياسات متعددة تهدف إلى توطين سوق العمل، و نحن نؤيد القيام بخطوات مدروسة تهدف إلى دعم دخول العمالة الخليجية إلى سوق عملها في أوطانها، بل و إعطاء الأفضلية في التوظيف على نمط ما يحدث في المملكة المتحدة حيث أن "ممارسات التوظيف" تعطي الأولوية للعمالة البريطانية، فالعمالة الأوربية و المستعمرات البريطانية، فعمالة استراليا و كندا و أمريكا، فعمالة دول الكومونولث. لكن للأسف يمكن القول أن أهداف سياسات التوطين لم تنجح بالشكل المخطط له، وهذا النكوص سببه الشركات نفسها، و التي يملكها رأس المال الخليجي، عن إعطاء الأولوية للعمالة الخليجية، لا بل يمتد الأمر إلى المنظمات الحكومية و شبه الحكومية حتى وقتٍ قريب. و أيضاً إلى مناخ العمل في المؤسسات الخليجية الخاصة التي قد لا تروق للعمالة الخليجية من حيث أن ساعات و وتيرة العمل و الإجازات في مقابل التعويضات التي تحصل عليها، و نرى في ذلك حقاً كاملاً للعمالة الخليجية.

من الناحية القانونية، فإن التوصية المرفوعة أعلاه قد تؤدي إلى خلل في البنية الاقتصادية الخليجية أكثر منه تنظيماً لها، سيما عند وضع الضوابط الناظمة لتحديد المهن و الحالات المستثناة من أحكام "التوصية الجديدة" عن عدمه.

من ناحية الاستهلاك، تخلق العمالة الأجنبية المتوسعة أثراً إيجابياً في توسيع السوق الداخلي، فالعمالة الأجنبية هي المسؤولة عن توليد حوالي 40% من الناتج المحلي الإجمالي على الاقل و بشكل بسيط هي ما ينفقه "الوافدين" على استهلاك المواد الغذائية، و أقساط التعليم و الايجارات المنزلية، ورسوم الاقامة والفيز، وفوائد القروض واقتناء السلع المعمرة كالسيارات. إن ضعف دينامية النمو السكاني المحثوث بالقدرة على الانفاق تعني صعف النمو الاقتصادي المستقبلي.

هناك منعكسات للتوصية على مناحي الاستثمار أيضاً، تعمل العمالة الاجنبية بأجر يقل 25-30% عن راتب نظيره المواطن بالمتوسط، و لا نرى مشكلة في ذلك، طالما ارتضى العامل الوافد العمل عند هذا الحد من الأجر و الذي يزيد عادة عن راتبه في بلده الأصلي. لكن لننظر للموضوع من وجهة نظر أخرى، إذا أخذنا بالزعم أن العمالة الأجنبية تبلغ 80% من عمال الدولة، فهذا يعني أن تكلفة الانتاج في الدولة أقل بـ 24% مما يعني زيادة القدرة التنافسية لمنتجات دول الخليج بمقدار 24%، وهذا النتيجة البسيطة أضحت ملموسة مع توسع الصادرات الخليجية إلى الدول المجاورة كما في المنتجات السعودية و الإماراتية. و هذه ميزة مهمة بالاخص مع دخول منظمة التجارة العالمية كما حصل مع السعودية مؤخراً.

اتذكر من تقرير مؤسسة الاستثمار العربية للعام 2000 أنه بعد استثناء الاستثمارات الخليجية البينية التي تبلغ 60% فيما بين دول الخليج، هناك حوالي 9-10% من الاستثمارات الأجنبية المتبقية القادمة إلى دول الخليج مصدرها الدول العربية، منها 60% من الاستثمارات العربية المصدرة للعمالة مثل مصر و الاردن و فلسطين و سورية. و للتذكرة فأن لكل شركة أجنبية كفيل أو شريك مواطن يحصل على رسوم و عوائد هامة من جراء كفالته تلك.

قد يكون للتوصية مفعول عكسي، إذ سيحجم "الوافدون" عن الانفاق و التملك و الاستثتمار، و حتى عن المساهمة السليمة في بناء المؤسسات التي يعملون بها، طالما أن الوافد يعلم أنه سيغادر البلد بعد ست سنوات على الاكثر (حيث ان العامل يحتاج إلى عام للاندماج في المجتمع و عام لتصفية أعماله).

نستهشد أيضاً و في نفس سياق الحديث عن الاستثمار بما حصل في مساعي توطين القطاع المصرفي الإماراتي بنسب مئوية متزايدة كل عام، و التي أدت إلى إسناد outsourcing الكثير من المهام الوظيفية التي يقوم بها المصارف (المملوكة أصلً من رأس المال الخليجي ) إلى مؤسسات خارجية غير مصرفية (و بالتالي لا تخضع إلى متطلبات التوطين) تملتكها المصارف نفسها. أو كما حدث في توطين القطاع العريق لتجارة وصياغة الذهب في السعودية و تحول المهنة و عمالها من سوريين و لبنانيين و هنود إلى دبي.

بالنسبة إلى الحوالات، بالأصل ان فرص الانفاق للموافدين محدودة في الاقتصادات المحلية الخليجية، فعلى مر السنوات، كانت ملكية "الوافدين" للعقارات و الأسهم ممنوعة أو محدودة في أفضل حالاتها، مما ترك الباب مفتوح أمام نشاط تحويل الأموال. لكن لننظر ما فعلت دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة؟ فقد سمحت "للوافدين" بتملك العقارات مما أدى بدوره إلى نشاط كبير في القطاع العقاري، و فورة ضخمة في مجال الإعمار و الاستثمار العقاري، أيضاً السماح في دولة الأمارات و دولة قطر على تملك الاجانب لبعض الأسهم و هذا ما أدى لدخول ادخارات "الوافدين" إلى السوق المالي، جنباً الى جنب مع الأموال الخليجية والاقليمية.

و بمناسبة الحديث عن الحوالات المصرفية فقد ولدت هذه الـ 25 مليار دخلاً للبنوك الوطنية وشركات التحويل الوطنية التي يملكها المواطنون الخليجيون حوالي 250 إلى 500 مليون دولار سنويا.ً يمكن قراءة المزيد عن حجوم الحوالات و الدول المستقبلة و المصدرة لها على موقع البنك الدولي.

كي لا يكون تحليلنا تحذيراً، نقترح بعض البدائل الملائمة :
يجب النظر إلى الاقتصاد ككل متكامل وفق مساهمة كل منا في عملية الانتاج و إعادة الانتاج وليس وفق جنسيته، و نقول أن هذه العمالة طالما وجدت عملاً فهذا يعني أنها مطلوبة و تسد فجوة عمل موجودة في سوق العمل، و هي تعمل في معظمها في شركات خاصة يملكها مواطني الدولة المستضيفة. فمن هو المسؤول عن قرار التوظيف؟ لا يمكن الحديث عن عمالة مؤهلة أو غير مؤهلة، بل يجب تحويل النقاش إلى عمالة مفيدة أو غير مفيدة؟
تخطيط العمالة المطلوبة انطلاقاً من مستويات الاستثمار و الناتج و نسب النمو المستهدفة، ومن ثم تصور حجم ونوع العمالة المطلوبة سواء من العمالة المحلية الخليجية أو الوافدة الأجنبية، بعد ذلك يتم الحديث عن استراتيجات الإصلاح المناسبة.
دعم التوجه نحو تنظيم العمالة، و الحفاظ على الهوية العربية الاسلامية لدول الخليج، لكن التنظيم لا يعني المنع و الفصل، بل يعني خلق الأطر الكافية لتعظيم الاستفادة من الطاقات البشرية و المالية الموجودة في دول الخليج. نشيد بخطوة دولة قطر التي قامت حسب علمي بتنظيم جنسيات العمالة الوافدة، و ذلك لمنع تركّز عمالة من جنسية واحدة في نفس الشركة.
تعزيز مبادرات التوطين المدروسة، و دعمها بالتزام رأس المال الخليجي في تنفيذها.
الاستفادة من قصص نجاح العديد من الجهات الخليجية في التوطين مثل النجاح الحاصل شركة الاتصالات الإماراتية، أو في سلطة النقد السعودية، أو السوق المالي الكويتي، أو في قناة الرأي الكويتية أو شركة صافولا السعودية.
خلق حوافز ايجابية و سلبية للشركات الخليجية في توظيف العمالة الخليجية.
خلق الحوافز لدى المواطنين في العمل لدى الشركات الخليجية الخاصة الكبرى عبر تحسين ظروف العمل الاجمالية في الشركات الخاصة.
تنمية الشعور بالمواطنة بين أوساط السكان المواطن منهم و الوافد على حد سواء، و نشيد هنا بمبادرة "وطني انا، أنا وطني" في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.

باسل نديم

Coffee Break

2005-11-02T21:11:00.001+04:00

Last day in Ramadan 2005 - Dubai.

Fancy a Cuppa!!

أدونيس في دبي

2004-02-26T03:01:00.001+04:00

كانت الأمسية تلك بين أدونيس و نصير شمة و رهام عبد الرحيم و مي فاروق على مسرح مؤسسة سلطان عويس الثقافية في 26/2/2004 أمسيةً لطيفةً أشاعت القليل من الدف الاجتماعي - الثقافي في يومية جنون البزنس في دبي.

كانت هذه هي المرة الأولى التي استمع فيها لأدونيس، فكل ما اعرفه عن أدونيس هو طرده من اتحاد الكتاب العرب، و مشاركتي في صالون أدونيس!!، اعتدت على سماع نصير شمة و أنا في بريطانيا عندما وجدت له تسجيلات في مكتبة التراث الموسيقي الشرقي ، و اهديت دكتوري المشرف سي دي أصابه بالسرور و حسن من فهمه للموسيقى العربية بعد تجربته المريعة في نادي رقص شرقي. أما ريهام عبد الرحيم و التي مثلت دور أم كلثوم و هي شابة في المسلسل إياه فاعترف بأني لم أشاهد منه حلقة قط، وأخيراً مي فاروق المغنية في الأوكسترا المصرية و المختصة بصوت ام كلثوم فلم اسمع بها مسبقاً. أدت ريهام ومي منفردتين و مجتمعتين كوبلات غنائية من كلمات أدونيس و تلحين نصير. وحدها فقط فيلا سلطان عويس في أبو رمانة خلف المركز الثقافي العربي هي التي أعرفها خلال تجربتي " الثقافية" في دمشق.

ابتدأت الأمسية بمقطوعة لنصير شمة، ثم قدم نصير لريهام عبد الحكيم:

ليس نجماً

ليس إيجاء نبي

ليس وجهاً خاشعاً للقمر

هو ذا يأتيك من أرض الحروف

نازفاً يرفع للشمس نزيفه

هو ذا يلمس عري الحجر

و يصلي يصلي للكهوف

هو ذا يحتضن الأرض الخفيفة..

يدخل أدونيس و يجلس جلسة متواضعة على يمين المسرح، و أخذ ينثر مزيجاً من التراكيب الجزلة حيناً والغامضة حيناً آخر، لكنها " تهب وجداناً صوفياً، و تحرض نمواً روحياً":

" أحرسيني يا أيتها الضاد الضاد

يا لغتي

يا بيتي"

أحلم على هذا الجسد

يُرمى النرد

" ثمة خمارات تصعد في باريس

صعود العذراء"

بعد معزوفة أخرى لأدونيس تقف مي فاروق على المنصة و تؤدي مع ريهام في كوبليه جميلة جداً، اقتطع منها:

" أكاد ألمح أحلامي مكدسةً

كأنها ورق يجتره ورق

تحيد عنها في الشهوة طرق"

" هنا سأشعل نار الحب ثانيةً

هنا سأحضن عنقائي و احترق

هنا سأشعل نار الحب ثانيةً

هنا سأحضن عنقائي و احترق"

يصدح أدونيس على هذا السياق الموسيقي و يعيد المقطع المغنى و يكمل قصيدته، مما زاد هذه اللوحة الفنية ألقاً و متعة.

يعزف نصير مجدداً "أغنية شرقية" و يعاود أدونيس هذيانه الشعري متقبساً منه مقتطعاً:

" في كل ليلة أحمل زغب نهديك

أيها الحنظل المتناثر ملحاً على موائد الإباحة"

" جسدك التيه

أخرج

و أشعار خروجك

أجنحي حيث البوح كنسية الجسد"

" و التقت النطاف بالنطاف"

ثم "يجوق" نصير و مي و رهام:

" لا نعرف الحب الذي قالوه أو كتبوه أو رسموه"

ينوه أدونيس الى أنه سينهي أشعاره بقصيدة من عام 1991:

" انتشي في مدار البكاء على الطلل العربي"

ثم ترتل مي و ريهام مع عود نصير

" لا اللوحات سريرٌ

و لا الأرض نوم

شجر الحب عار"

"سأغني هذا المكان

المضاء بحطام المحبين قبلي

ليس هذا الوجود سوى فسحة للغناء"

أجمل ما في الحفل هو العشاء الشامي مع الشباب المطعم المكشوف محتفلين بطقوس الشتاء.

باسل

The Old Ways

2003-03-01T17:00:00.000+04:00

On a way home!! share my memories with Loreena McKennitt...

The Old Ways
The thundering waves are calling me home to you.
The pounding sea is calling me home to you.
On a dark new year's night
On the west coast of Clare I heard your voice singing
Your eyes danced the song
Your hands played the tune
T'was a vision before me.

We left the music behind and the dance carried on
As we stole away to the seashore
We smelt the brine, felt the wind in our hair
And with sadness you paused.
Suddenly I knew that you'd have to go
My world was not yours, your eyes told me so
Yet it was there I felt the crossroads of time
And I wondered why.

As we cast our gaze on the tumbling sea
A vision came o'er me
Of thundering hooves and beating wingsIn clouds above.
As you turned to go I heard you call my name,
You were like a bird in a cage spreading its wings to fly
"The old ways are lost," you sang as you flew
And I wondered why.

Listen to The Old Ways

Briefing on Business Opportunities in Syria

2002-11-04T11:30:00.000+04:00

Briefing on Business Opportunities in Syria
with Emphasis on the European-Syrian Association Agreement

The idea of this briefing was tempted by Mr.Nick Kuenssberg the Scottish Networks International Chairman during our discussion about business opportunities in Syria.

Recent economic developments the Syrian economic regulation makes it worthy to create \ enhance the presence in Syria and be closer to the proposed 4 billion euro – the rehabilitation and modernization program’s cost which will executed mainly by international companies.

Moreover, Syria is almost to sign an Association Agreement with Europe, thus and as a related steps, the European Union is funding 10 million euro as a part of the transitional agenda in the coming two years, and it has committed to another 70 million euro over the coming five years.

Most of the available and potential business opportunities attach the area of Business advisory, Banking, financial services, project management, IT and other infrastructure projects.

I am keen to devote my proven experience to the interested companies, and to share them their steps toward more success.

Get a copy from the report now

Revealing my Glasgow Experience

2002-10-26T17:30:00.000+04:00

Bassel Nadim studied an MPhil in Monetary Economics and Finance at the University of Glasgow between 2001 and 2002. Here he tells of his experiences in the city, and how the Chevening scholarship will help him in his future career in economics.

Just last year I was counting down the days left to be in the UK. I dreamed, imagined, got excited, planned ahead, but the something I did not think about is how gorgeous my experience here would be, indeed, it was more than what I have expected. Glasgow is a cosmopolitan city, it combines heritage with modernization, culture with business, nature with civilization, change with variety, and maybe more importantly, people with people. Glasgow surrounded me with a unique feeling of warm and friendship. I have never felt myself a stranger.

Social life in Scotland is second to none, both Glasgow University International Student Scheme and Host UK programme opened a chance for me to make further contacts with local Scottish families. I still remember with gratitude the hospitality I got by the Glaswegian families, and the nice Christmas days I spent in Inverness. I enjoyed delicious meals, understood Scottish life and introduced some awareness on the oriental culture.

Equally important were the two chances provided by the British Council in Glasgow and the Rotary Club in the area, it was extremely useful for me and other scholars to get the hang of people's points of view, discuss global issues, and mutually communicate with the area's MP. How could I forget the great weekend hosted by the Rotary Club in Girvan on the Irish Sea, or the spectacular Lochs and the Highlands.

Cutting-edge research in Scotland
Back to the University life. Despite the desirable academic pressure, it was extremely comprehensive. Glasgow University is one of the best ever - the 550 year-old university manifested itself not only on the splendid ancient architecture, but also on the knowledge accumulation my university contributed in, which started even before Adam Smith and James Watt. And while it has not been finished, it is at the cutting edge IT research and e-intelligence implementation. However, the university is still committing itself for further outstanding research and education. It generated almost £250m recently, and placed 17,000 full-time students.

Consider, for instance, my department -The Centre of Development Studies - that attracts distinguished academic staff and speakers to teach high quality courses adopted for developing and transitional countries. It is a sign of excellence that my course is tailored for monetary and finance issues in developing countries where only proven economists are able to approach. Furthermore, in the closed city, Edinburgh, the Roslin Institute cloned Dolly the sheep, the most argumentative scientific achievement in contemporary history.

On the professional side, the Scottish Executive, the devolved Scottish government, throughout its bodies and schemes, organised a score of business-oriented events. I contributed more than once in their activities and grasped practical benefits.

Certainly, the knowledge and skills I gained will positively affect my performance, providing further economic advice and conducting more sophisticated consultancy assignments at higher levels and according to international codes. I hope I can create further improvement in the Syrian economy and enhance its steps towards partnership with the EU.

Finally, I would to thank friends, the university staff, the Scottish Executive, and the British Council in Syria and United Kingdom for their support, encouragement and care.

Bassel Nadim

The British Foreign Policy Forum

2002-07-10T21:00:00.001+04:00

The British Foreign Policy Forum, Glasgow

Chevening scholars in Glasgow participated in the Community Discussion on the British Foreign Policy hosted by Dr. Denis MacShane MP, Foreign Office Minister, at St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life Art, in Glasgow, on 8th July 2002.The forum was transparent, responsible and fruitful. Mutual communications took place on a variety of issues such as: British business overseas, tourism activities, relations with Europe and USA, poverty, NGO's, charities, political and social conflicts around the world, UK's role maintaining peace and human rights. Foreign Policy, as Dr. MacShane referred, is the heart of what British nation does do".

Serious and important discussion was debated within the community. Chevening scholars contributed effectively and demonstrated their perception about the contemporary British foreign policy, with attempts to visualise its future.

Dr. MacShane warmly welcomed the scholars and encouraged them to express their ideas and he was proud that such friends for the UK had been gained for life.

A big 'thank-you' for both the Lord Provost's Office and the British Council in Glasgow for facilitating this opportunity. Furthermore, I extend gratitude to the Foreign Office's team who made that event successful.

Bassel Nadim

British Chevening Scholar
Syria

في غرفتي... ذبابة

2002-04-08T14:30:00.001+04:00

في غرفتي.... ذبابة

كان ذاك الصباح في مدينتي رائعاً، انساب الهواء من النافذة المفتوحة رقراقاً على وجهي كما نفحات الرحمة، و تواصل

الى مسامعي أصوات إذاعة مونت كارلو، كان ذلك كافياً بأن يأسرني بلطف لامتناهي و و لأن يجول داخلي هائماً بين ذكريات و صور غير واضحة المعالم تضفي شعوراً فريداً من اللذة ، الخلاص والتآحد مع المطلق!!!.

في تلك اللحظات السحرية....حطت على وجهي.... كش... ، كش!!!! التقطت بقايا حواسي و التي لم يأسرها التآحد بعد - الكلمة ، فتحت عيني على عجل ... نعم إنها ذبابة .... ذبابة!! ... ذبابة بريطانية ... أول ذبابة أراها منذ زمن، فتحت الستائر و أغلقت النافذة و رحت أطاردها في الغرفة... فرحت بها كما لم يفرح طفل بدميته.. استأنست بوجودها و كأنها حمامة سلام!! قررت ان أجلب لها بعض الطعام بعد أن اتعبتها نظافة هذه المدنية!!

بعد هنة، عاد لي رشدي... سائلت نفسي لماذا ظهرت هذه الذبابة اليوم؟ ما الذي تمثله هذه الذبابة؟ ما المدلول التي تحاول جلبه لي؟ هل له علاقة بالحرب ضد الإرهاب؟ أم في مجازر فلسطين؟ هل هي هنا لتقول لي أننا نحن أمة العرب أضحينا كالذباب !!!؟؟ إذاً : تباً لك أيتها الذبابة، نعم تباً لك. و قررت فعسها...بيد أن قفزاتها الرشيقة من بقايا قطعة الكيك على الطاولة ، إلى جواربي الملحوشة على الأرض، إلى مفكرتي الرقمية حالت دون ذلك...

لاحق نظري الذبابة ، آه ... ما أنت إلا ذبابة ... من أين لك كل هذه المدلولات المهمة، حسناً لا مكان للذباب في غرفتي ... عليك الخروج الآن .... فتحت النافذة من جديد و رددت أغنيتي القديمة الإنذارية الشهيرة:

سأقتل كل ذبابة أراها هنا..... سأقتل كل ذبابة أراها هنا...

بعد دقائق ، و على هامش تحليلات وصول باول الى المغرب ... قررت الذبابة الخروج من النافذة المشرعة للشمس

تخريف: باسل نديم
بريطانيا 8 نيسان 2002

My Speech at the Rutherglen Rotary Club in Scotland

2002-02-22T18:00:00.001+04:00

My Speech at the Rutherglen Rotary Club in Scotland

I did this speech at the Rutherglen Rotary Club in Scotland in the occasion of the annual meeting with the international students. It is a habit of the Club to name a President for that night only, who was myself.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Evening,

I would like first to introduce myself, my name is Bassel Nadim from Syria , Damascus. I am carrying out my master degree in economics at Glasgow University, I used to work as an economist for a regional consultancy firm back home in Syria.

It was a great pleasure to speak in behalf of my colleagues at the British Chevening Scholarship Scheme in Scotland . Meanwhile I have gained the hounor to be named as a President for Rutherglen Rotary Club for this event.

Indeed, such occasions provide a mutually beneficial vehicle for people to get the hang of other’s points of view, this will accelerate cultural communication and provoke knowledge accumulation, thus proper understanding will be created, and fruitful business relations will be taken place.

We as Chevening scholars do appreciate the efforts done by your Club to abolish poverty and social conflict around the world, we condemn all types of violent against civilians in Northern Ireland, America, Afghanistan, Iraq, West Bank, and Israel, it should be Justice not Revenge as Glasgow City Council announced in more than a time.

Finally, deep gratitude for both the British Council and the Rutherglen Rotary Club
For their efforts to achieve prosperity for Scotland, United Kingdom and the world.

Enjoy your night.

Bassel Nadim
20/2/2002

BASSEL NADIM باسل نديم

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The untrodden ways!

Selling your used mobile…Ten secrets of the trade

المجلس الأعلى للبطاطا

من أفروديت إلى أبوظبي

E-Relief

Calculate Your Personal Zakat

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Fancy a car!

The eyes of truth are always watching you

How many Nadims?!

لا تحلفيني بالشنب

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I have a baby!

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Umrah

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River Side Hotel

My car broke down

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The Oldest Client in the Mega Mall

Retail ME Awards 2006 Winners

Retail ME Awards 2006

Classical music

Mouhaned turns into shadi!!

Live from Dubai©

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Dubai Marathon

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توصية للحد من إقامة الأجانب في دول الخليج العربي

Coffee Break

أدونيس في دبي

The Old Ways

Briefing on Business Opportunities in Syria

Revealing my Glasgow Experience

The British Foreign Policy Forum

في غرفتي... ذبابة

My Speech at the Rutherglen Rotary Club in Scotland