Compass - Visa Application Centre Magazine by Maxposure Media Group

Dubai is
Second
to me…
Volume 1 | Issue 3 | April - May 2018
Free Copy For Visa Applicants. Not For Sale
The Charms of
Belfast
Football Voyage
in Russia
Get Access to
VFS Global
Premium Lounge
Home
SHAH RUKH KHAN

April-May 2018 / 1
CEO Message
Dear customer,
Welcome to the VFS Global COMPASSTM
, a complimentary magazine created
exclusively for VFS Global’s application centre customers. Please do feel free to
take it home for a longer read or to share it with your family and friends.
We hope this magazine gives you useful information about the general visa
application process, as well as other interesting insights on destinations and travel
in general to enhance your overall visa application experience.
The focus destination of this issue is the United Arab Emirates, with Bollywood
superstar Shah Rukh Khan sharing his views on his favourite things to do in Dubai,
and Mr. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce
Marketing, inspiring you to explore the Emirate of Dubai. The issue also highlights
some magnificent shoot destinations in Italy, and the best ways to spend two days
in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Ahead of the Football World Cup this summer, COMPASSTM
provides an insight
into top five places to explore in Russia and how the VFS Global application centre
network is a key success factor for the tournament to distribute mandatory FAN ID
to football fans.
Nick Crouch, Regional Director for South and South East Asia, UK Visas and
Immigration (UKVI), shares his perspective on changing customer demands and
on how UKVI stays ahead of the game. The issue also offers an array of very
interesting articles related to travel and the visa application process in general, and
also brings you up to date with some of the latest developments at VFS Global.
I do hope you find this issue interesting and wish you an excellent travel experience
– wherever it is you may be headed.
Zubin Karkaria
CEO, VFS Global Group
Make your travel easy

Pg 16
Pg 6
Pg 36
Guide to Visa
Application
06 ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’, Premium
Lounge and Platinum Lounge
offered by VFS Global
10 UK visa application now made
easier
12 Things to remember before
applying for a student’s visa
14 DVPC mobile app to
apply for a UAE visa
People Places
16 Picture Perfect
We take you through some
magnificent shoot locations
across Italy
Touch Down
20 Arty Airports
Airports that are architectural
marvels and enthral travellers
with their simplistic approach to
passenger needs
Hotspot
22 On a Football
Sightseeing Trail
Heading to Russia to attend
the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
Don’t forget to explore these
destinations
Celeb Calling
26 “Dubai is Second
Home to Me”
Shah Rukh Khan takes us on a
journey through Dubai
Contents

April-May 2018 / 3
Pg 26
Pg 28
Pg 22
People Places
28 Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai
Corporation for Tourism and
Commerce Marketing, talks about
the best things to do in Dubai
Canvas
30 Dubai’s Artistic Makeover
Dubai is becoming the art hub of
the Middle East
Outdoor
32 Middle Eastern Adventure
Adventures in the Middle East
People Places
36 Nick Crouch, Regional Director
for South and South East Asia,
UK Visas and Immigration, on
how UKVI stays ahead of the game
Cityscape
38 48 Hours in Belfast
Belfast in Northern Ireland is
known for its cool hangouts,
galleries and vibrant nightlife
Globetrotter
42 Event Planner
Happenings in April and May
About VFS
44 Secure your assets in
Dubai RAK
46 Online-guided learning
programmes for students
worldwide
48 Privilege Program launched in
UAE India
50 VFS Global’s Sustainability
Roadmap
52 VFS Global Network
Dubai is
Second
to me…
Free Copy For Visa Applicants. Not For Sale
The charms of
Belfast
Football Voyage
in Russia
Get Access to
VFS Global
Premium Lounge
Home
SHAH RUKH KHAN
Photo:DubaiTourism

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Prakash Johari
Director
Vikas Johari
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CompassTM
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COMPASSV I S A A P P L I C A T I O N C E N T R E M A G A Z I N E
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Exclusive Marketing Partner

guide to visa application
A
uthenticity and personalisation have
become two vital check-boxes that a
discerning traveller likes to tick-off the
moment they begin planning their travel.
Modern day technology has transformed
the entire process of preparing for a
journey, be it booking the right hotel,
selecting the right airline or even narrowing
down on a location to visit.
Recent trends have shown that travellers have
now evolved to become ‘experience driven’
owing to the greater importance placed
on enjoying innovative services over just
spending on materialistic or tangible items.
Premium Lounge
Enjoy unmatched convenience of the unique services
such as ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’, Premium Lounge
and Platinum Lounge offered by VFS Global
As pioneer and market leader in the visa
services industry, VFS Global has leveraged
key requisites such as convenience,
exclusivity and personalisation to intuitively
cater to the individual needs of the present
day traveller.
The Premium Lounge
The Premium Lounge service is not just
a service but more of an experience. VFS
Global’s exclusive Premium Lounges offer
the comforts of a modern day lounge
facility during a visa submission process,
which can be availed at 162 locations in
52 countries globally, including regions like
the Middle East, South Asia, Asia Pacific,
Russia, Eastern Europe and the Americas.
Within the plush ambience of the lounge,
dedicated and trained staff equipped with
local language skills is always available to
answer all your visa-related queries and
assist you with quicker completion of the
application submission process. Applicants
can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the
hospitality at the lounge, while all their visa
submission requirements are taken care of.
Along with complimentary photocopying
and photo-booth services as per parameters
specified by the embassy, the well-trained
visa officers also assist the applicants with
all form-filling services and printing of any
mandatory document, which an applicant
may have forgotten to carry with them.
Applicants don’t have to return to the VFS
Global Visa Application Centre to collect
their applications in person as it can now
be couriered to an address of their choice.
They can even track their application from
the time it is dispatched for processing at
the respective embassy until it is ready for
collection or sent across to the customer.
Remember to leave an address at the VFS
Global centre after you submit the application
to avail the courier dispatch service.
Remember to add your current mobile
number to get regular updates on your visa
status via SMS notifications.
Things to remember
while availing the
Premium Lounge
service
They look for experiences where authenticity
blends with innovation and thereby offering
them a whole new range of indulgence.
Guided by these changes in the travel
industry, especially in the demand for
value added services, VFS Global has
conceptualised and rolled out a host of
personalised services and product offerings.
Amongst the bespoke value added services
launched by VFS Global, top-tier facilities
such as the ‘Premium Lounge’, ‘Platinum
Lounge’ (available in Dubai) and the ‘Visa At
Your Doorstep’ service have transformed the
overall application submission experience.
get your
Experience
Guests at the VFS Global Premium Lounge in Mumbai

April-May 2018 / 7
“VFS Global staff is very
helpful, quick and efficient.”
N. T. Rama Rao Junior,
Indian cinema actor, about
Premium Lounge services at the
Hyderabad VAC
“Absolutely hospitable
and friendly service. Very
courteous and friendly staff.
Thank you for the respect
and comfort”
Jyothika Sadanah, Indian
cinema actor, about Premium
Lounge services at the Chennai VAC
“Very helpful and customer
friendly service. Thank you.”
Arvind Swamy, Indian cinema
actor, about Premium Lounge
services at the Chennai VAC
“Efficient and easy
processing. Courteous staff
and ease of doing business.
My compliments to the VFS
Global team. Thanks.”
K.T. Rama Rao, Honourable
Minister for Information and
Technology, Telangana state,
about Premium Lounge services at
the Hyderabad VAC
customer
speak
customer speak
The Platinum Lounge
The exclusive Platinum Lounge facility
available at Wafi Mall, Dubai, UAE,
provides uncompromising service quality
and superior customer support within a
secure and private environment to visa
applicants travelling to the UK or Australia.
The Platinum Lounge facility offers
applicants a range of services that include
professional chauffeur driven car provided
from any location within the UAE (on prior
notice) to quicker visa processing under
Priority Visa Services*, and a choice of
delectable meals and refreshments from
a handpicked a la carte menu when at the
lounge. From the time an applicant books
an appointment to the time they leave the
lounge, they will receive personalised
end-to-end attention from professionally
trained staff that cater to their needs, all
within the lap of luxury.
Platinum Lounge service (only in
Dubai) is available to applicants
travelling to the UK or Australia
only.
You do not need to pay an
additional fee for form-filling
assistance, SMS and courier
return service if availing the
Platinum Lounge service.
The Platinum Lounge service is
available at any time the applicant
requests with no additional fee.
Prior notice must be given to avail
the chauffeur services from any
location in the UAE.
Things to
remember
while availing
the Platinum
Lounge service
*Priority Visa Services are available only to UK visa applicants.
“Thank you very much
for your quick response
and making it sure to
send my passport the
same morning to the
embassy. I was very
surprised when you
called me to say that my
passport is on the way
back for collection.
Yes! I got my visit
visa and thank you
once again for your
enterprising approach
and support. Great
Work!”
Lohith Achaiah
“I had applied for a
UK 4 Tier Student Visa
on behalf of my son at
the Platinum Lounge
in Wafi Mall and we
were attended by Mrs
Doaa and Ms Rammani.
This is to appreciate
their services, help and
support. Everything was
very smooth and the
overall experience was
great. Both the ladies
made it so easy and
hassle free. Thanks for
everything.”
Sheetal Beri and
Vardan Beri

The customer submits the request for
this service either online (by visiting
the country specific website via
vfsglobal.com) or by contacting the
relevant helpline number based on
their location.
Once the payment of the fee for the
service is completed online, the customer
will receive the update containing the
confirmed appointment details.
VFS Global’s staff will travel to the
location specified by the customer at
the appointed time, to accept the visa
application and enrol the biometrics if
required of the entire group, individually.
How does this
work
DISCLAIMER Availing Premium Lounge service, Platinum Lounge service or Visa At Your Doorstep services does not affect the processing time or decision
of your visa. These remain the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Mission/Consulate. Premium Lounge, Platinum Lounge and Visa At Your Doorstep services are
charged in addition to the visa application fee.
“I am a television
personality and my work
schedule tends to be quite
busy. The Visa At Your
Doorstep service was a
great help in applying for
my visa, as I was able to
do so from a location of my
choice in true comfort. The
staff offered personalised
service by assisting me
with the entire process and
were very efficient. It was a
pleasant start to
my travel!”
Dhivya Dharshini
customer
speak
VISA AT YOUR
DOORSTEP
If you do not wish to visit the Visa
Application Centre but would like to apply
for your visa at a time and place of your
choice and convenience, then ‘Visa At Your
Doorstep’ service is the right option for you.
This is a popular premium service, which
meets the needs of travellers who would
like to opt for highly personalised services,
at a location of their choice.
By leveraging on VFS Global’s expertise
of providing innovative Mobile Biometric
enrolment technology solutions, the
company’s visa officers are equipped to
securely enrol an applicant’s biometrics from
virtually any location as per the mandatory
requirements of the respective embassy.
‘Visa at Your Doorstep’ service is of immense
benefit to those who reside in satellite
locations away from the hustle and bustle of
a city and face difficulty in commuting to the
nearest Visa Application Centre.
Launched in April 2016, this highly
popular service is particularly beneficial
to high net worth individuals who seek
personalised services, companies with a
large number of staff who travel extensively,
government delegations, those in the field
of entertainment and cinemas who have
an upcoming shoot abroad, MICE groups
and even large groups of families or friends
who plan to travel overseas together. With
flexible pricing, depending on the group size,
this service can in fact be more economical,
especially with large groups of travellers.
Happy customers displaying the Privilege Card

T
he United Kingdom has attracted a great
deal of inbound travellers all throughout
the year. Be it with its fascinating buildings
of historic and architectural importance,
renowned educational system or with the
variety of sporting events around the year.
The UK is considered one of the top 10
tourist destinations that attract visitors
especially with the proximity it shares with
other popular Schengen countries.
VFS Global, in association with United
Kingdom Visas and Immigration, have
developed a number of solutions and
services aimed at making the visa
application process more seamless and
convenient for the applicants applying from
different parts of the world. Apart from
the Premium Lounge, Platinum Lounge
(exclusively for applicants in Dubai, UAE)
and ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’ services, a
number of additional services are available
to the varying needs of the global traveller.
Keep Your Passport While
Applying
Many applicants face this common
dilemma when they need to apply for
multiple visas, especially while planning a
UK and Schengen combined trip, where
they have to wait for one embassy to
process the visa before submitting the
passport with the next embassy. This
useful service, if opted for, allows the
applicant to retain their passport after
they enrol their biometrics, until the UK
Embassy takes the final decision on the
status of their visa application.
As a result of the ‘Keep My Passport’ while
applying, applicants planning their combined
UK-Schengen trips can now complete
formalities of visa application for multiple
countries and the UK in a single day, while
they are at the Visa Application Centre.
Walk In Without an Appointment
A missed visa appointment or an urgent
travel need is no longer a dilemma for UK
visa applicants. Opt for the ‘Walk in without
an Appointment’ service and visit any VFS
Global UK Visa Application Centre to submit
the application without a prior appointment.
Even if an applicant feels that the
prescheduled visa appointment time is
no longer suitable due to unforeseen
circumstances, they can immediately avail
this service and submit their application on
a date and time convenient to them.
A host of options now await UK visa applicants tailored to fit their unique preferences
making UK VISA
EASY CONVENIENT
Super Priority and Priority Visas
Have an urgent trip to the UK that has
come up at short notice? With unique
services like ‘Super Priority’ and ‘Priority
Visas’, UK visa applicants have the chance
to get their visa applications processed in
the least possible time.
While a UK visa application under Super
Priority service is expected to be completed
within just a single working day, UK Visas
and Immigration aims to process a decision
within five working days under the Priority
Visa Service. The Priority Service must be
availed at the time of application submission
and applicants are also requested to check
the eligibility for these services as it may
vary based on the requirements, which
include exceptions like overseas domestic
workers for Super Priority Visa Service
and customers applying for EEA family
permits, or visas for Overseas Territories
and Dependencies (including the Channel
Islands) for Priority Visa Service.
Britain Travel Shop
As an added convenience to applicants
travelling to the UK, VFS Global in
partnership with VisitBritain operates
‘Britain Travel Shop’ at select Visa
Application Centres across 24 countries,
which include South Asia, South East
Asia and the Middle East. The ‘Britain
Travel Shop’ kiosks offer a wide range of
sightseeing and travel options in the UK,
which applicants can purchase during the
visa application process.
In addition, with other customer-centric
services such as form-filling assistance,
document checks, certification, regular
updates on the status of the visa via
SMS updates, courier return, delivery of
processed passports and documents, and
translation services at select locations,
submitting a UK visa application has never
been this easy!

I
STUDENT VISA simplified
5 things to remember before you begin your visa application process
f you are planning to study abroad,
student visa is an essential document.
Even when you focus all attention to
choosing the appropriate study course at a
prestigious university, you should give due
importance to acquire a valid student’s visa
well before the travel date that will cover
the entire period of your stay abroad.
It’s helpful to be aware of how to go about
it. After all, you would want to get your visa
application sorted quickly and painlessly.
Given below are key student visa tips:
Do Not Procrastinate
a) 1-3 months in advance: You will
need to apply at least one to three months
prior to the course commencement date,
depending on which country you are
applying to. Or, you may not be able to
leave in time for your orientation classes.
b) Visa category: The student must
inquire about the visa category with the
college to which he/she seeks admission
to or with the concerned embassy. This
is important as requirements for different
regions within the same country can vary.
c) List of documents: Check the full
list of documents required well in advance on
the visa section of the country’s government
website so that you have them ready at the
time of visa application submission.
Acceptance Letter
You can apply for a student visa only
after you have been accepted into an
academic course in the country where you
wish to study. You will need to submit the
acceptance letter and pay for some or all of
your tuition fees when you apply for the visa.
The length of your course will determine
the type of student visa you need to apply
for. For example, if you have opted for a
course that is shorter than six months, you
may need to enter on a short-term study
visa. This visa may not allow you to work
while studying.
Are You Healthy Enough?
Some countries have health restrictions on
their student visa categories. For example,
you may need to undergo medical tests to
prove that you do not carry any infectious
disease, or, prove that you have been
immunised if your home country has lately
had an outbreak of diseases such as cholera
or yellow fever. Some countries require you
to take a mandatory health insurance before
they grant you a student visa.
Get Your Documents in Order
Early On
You’ll need original copies of important
documents, such as your IELTS/TOEFL
test scores or your academic results and
certificates (depending on the checklist
Remember! The above tips are generic and not specific to any country. Applicants are advised to confirm country-specific details their application. Student visa decisions are
on vfsglobal.com before submitting the sole prerogative of the embassy you are applying at. As a visa processing agency, visa service providers, including VFS Global, have
no role or influence on the decision of your application to study/travel/work abroad. VFS Global does not offer recruitment
or immigration advice or services.
specifications), and of course your current
passport, which should be valid for the next
six months.
The common documents you will require at
the time of the visa interview, some of which
have to be original copies, are:
• Passport
• Photos
• Acceptance letter
• Financial documents with proof of funds
• Student loan approvals
• Academic qualifications
• Test scores
• English language qualifications
• Proof of international student health cover
This is only an indicative list – please do
refer to the exact checklist of requirements
for the country you are planning to study in,
on the official website of that country.
Study the Visa Conditions Before
You Fly
Take time to understand the finer aspects
of your visa category once you get your
visa. What does that stamp mean? Can
your family go with you? Can you work
part-time? If so, how many hours per
week? After graduation, can you apply
for a work permit, and if so, for how long
is it valid? Make sure you know all your
entitlements upfront, as every country has
different requirements.

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D
APPLY FOR DUBAI
VISA on the go!
Emirates Airline passengers can use the DVPC mobile
app to apply for a UAE e-visa in just 5 minutes
ubai is home to one of the world’s
busiest international airport owing to its
geographically central location between
Asia and Europe. The city’s remarkable
evolution into an essential global transit
hub, reinforced with its warm hospitality
and array of world-class attractions and
activities, has firmly established Dubai as
a leading destination for the discerning
global traveller of today.
A Hop-Over Destination
Dubai has become a convenient hop-over
destination due to its unmatched accessibility
via air and wide range of vacationing options
that cater to the needs of every traveller.
From the skyscrapers lining Sheikh
Zayed Road, the world-class mega
malls and multi-million-dollar offshore
developments, to the old world souks,
pristine beaches, dreamlike desert
safaris and adrenaline-charged adventure
activities, Dubai has it all.
Furthermore, the city’s infrastructure
and superior amenities, perfected under
the visionary leadership of HH Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, uniquely
enables visitors to effortlessly pack-in as
many activities and experiences within the
time limit of their short-term tourist visa.
To provide passengers with convenient
stop-over options to enjoy this dynamic city,
Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines,
currently operates flights to 141 destinations
across the globe via Dubai.
DVPC Mobile App to Book Your
Visa On The Go
Keeping pace with Emirates’ expanding
flight network and the latest technology,
VFS Global’s Dubai Visa Processing Centre
(DVPC) mobile app has simplified travel to
Dubai by providing Emirates passengers
with the convenience of applying for their
UAE visa on the go. Besides physically
walking into a DVPC Application Centre,
passengers flying to Dubai by Emirates
Airline can now also apply for their UAE
e-visa using their smartphones or tablets.
The DVPC mobile app is available on
iOS and Android devices and can be
downloaded for free from Google’s Play
Store or Apple’s App Store, globally.
Using the app, they can opt for a 96-hour
Transit Visa, a 30-day Tourist Visa or a
90-day Visit Visa based on their Emirates
Airline itinerary.
The user-friendly transactional app
involves a one-time user registration and
profile creation for yourself or your family
members. You can use it for submitting
the data needed for the visa application,
making payments and receiving the
service digital.
DVPC also offers online visa application
services for residents in over 180 countries
through www.emirates.com.
Its value-added services such as Express
Visas (where visas are turned around on
priority for urgent applications) and door-
to-door services (application pick-up from
home or office) have also redefined the
UAE visa processing services.
For more information on DVPC Visa
Application Centres, the DVPC mobile
app, and the online platform please visit
www.dubaivisa.net.
Emirates Airline passengers can use the DVPC mobile
app to apply for their UAE e-visa in a matter of minutes
3 easy steps to apply via the mobile app
Step 1: Download, register and create your profile
Step 2: Retrieve your Emirates booking to apply
Step 3: Make payment and receive your approved
visa on the app and via email
The DVPC mobile app

people places
Picture
Strike a pose like your favourite film star at these
fabulous locations across Italy
Words: Kiran Mehta
Perfect

I
April-May 2018 | 17
t’s possible to fall in love with Italy even if
you two have never met; particularly so, if
you’re a movie-buff. The swatches of the
country seen on our movie-screens are
breathtakingly beautiful. From a love-story
set in the sun-dappled Tuscan hills, to a
heist that plays out in the backdrop of
cobbled-stoned Venice, or a family drama
set in the Sicilian sea-side, Italy is where
many Hollywood dramas have unfolded. Go
on, be a diva and follow our guide:
The Tourist
There’s Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp and
Venice. It’s a formula that couldn’t go
wrong. Little wonder that the film, The
Tourist, was nominated for three Golden
Globe Awards. The comedy-romance-
thriller sees the dishy actors flitting across
Venice. A math-teacher from Wisconsin is
in Venice to mend his broken heart. He falls
head-over-heels for a mystery woman, who
is on the run from Scotland Yard.
Even as Jolie dodges cops and intelligence
units, she takes viewers on gondola rides
across the Grand Canal, into the historic
Santa Lucia railway station, into Arsenale,
the Interpol’s Venice headquarters, the
Guggenheim museum and lots of other
fantastic tourist hot-spots. The aptly named
film is the ultimate guide to the city.
Don’t Look Now
This 1973 thriller makes Venice come alive.
The film shows an English couple – John
and Laura Baxter – grieving over the sudden
death of their daughter, Christine, who
drowned in a pond. In an attempt to dull the
pain, John takes up a commission to restore
a crumbling church. The city transforms into
a living being, alternatively soothing them,
and reminding them of Christine.
The film captures a little-known side of
Venice; shot in January, you see empty
streets, full of potential. Instead of sun-
streaked alleys, you see locals wrapped
in layers. Scenes take you down Venice’s
famed canals, where you can sense the
serene, yet sinister, nature of water. Even
the cobble-stoned streets of Venice take
on a new shade: you are made aware of
the sharp turns in the alleys, where you
can hear the foot-steps of others, but
cannot see them.
Venice comes shrouded in mystery, and
every scene showcases more surprises.
It shows you that no matter how many
There’s Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp
and Venice. It’s a formula that
could never go wrong
Gondolas in Venice
Interior of Doge’s Palace

people places
visits you make to this Italian city, you’ll find
something unexpected. All you need is to
see it with new eyes.
Spectre
James Bond is the ultimate globe-trotter,
raking up those air-miles, with impossible
missions that take him to the most
picturesque locations. The backdrop
is almost as pretty as the Bond girls
themselves. And it is in Casino Royale –
featuring Lake Como – that Bond earns his
license to kill.
While Italy has been featured in several
Bond films, Vatican City comes alive in
Spectre. Strictly speaking, the city-
state is an independent country and the
world’s smallest sovereign state. Yet
with a two-kilometre border separating
it from Italy, it’s an inseparable part of
the country. You enter via Italy and the
Schengen visa applies.
Spectre’s most riveting scene is that of
a high-octane car-race along the Tiber
River and against the back-drop of St.
Chat with the locals and you’ll discover a
softer side of Bond. Turns out the production
crew worked alongside the city council and
cleaned up the city – painting over the graffiti
– prior to the shoot. They didn’t stop at that;
during the night shoots, the crew also handed
out hot meals to the homeless.
Eat Pray Love
Elizabeth Gilbert’s best-selling memoir
played out in India, Indonesia and Italy.
Starring the gorgeous Julia Roberts, the film
takes you through the character’s struggles,
where a modern woman gives up her career,
her life as she knows it in New York City,
to find herself. Her first stop, or the ‘Eat’
part of the story, plays out in Rome and
Naples. Against the dreamy back-drops of
these cities, she nourishes her body and
gives into her cravings, by digging into the
most delicious meals. She takes viewers
to starred restaurants in Rome for creamy
pastas, gelato stores for fantastic sweet-
treats, pizzerias for cheesy pizzas and more.
You can follow Robert’s trail, or find your
own delectable hot-spots in a country that’s
known for its culinary delights.
Under the Tuscan Sun is an
American romance-drama,
that puts the focus on the sun-
dappled Tuscan hills. The film
showcases the Villa Laura, a 17th
century estate, which is available
to rent for your next getaway.
Bollywood’s The Great Gambler
starring superstar Amitabh
Bachchan and Zeenat Aman,
also features Italy. The hit song,
Do lafzon ki hai dil ki kahani is
shot on a Gondola ride in the
city of Venice.
Want more
of Italy?
Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The
Vatican comes dotted with spectacular
works of art. The holiest of Catholic
shrines, the Basilica, features a towering
dome, fashioned by Michelangelo. On the
inside lies the Pieta, a sculpture depicting
the Virgin Mary cradling the body of
Christ, created by Michelangelo.
Trastevere in Rome

Touch Down
airportsToday, airports have become an integral part of our life. Some are architectural
marvels while some enthral with their simplistic approach to passenger needs
Munich
One of Europe’s busiest; Munich
Airport has recently broken new
ground by initiating testing of
humanoid robot in T2. The airport
serves as a major hub for Air Berlin,
Lufthansa and Condor, and it features
airy, glass-heavy architecture. A
nearby visitor’s park features mini golf
and a display of historic aircraft. With
its own brewery and beer garden, it is
clearly a hot favourite amongst those
who enjoy a pre-flight drink. It is in
fact referred to as a city centre, with
over 150 shopping outlets and over
50 bars and restaurants.
Highlight: The beer garden
Heathrow
As the second busiest airport in 2017 (in
terms of passenger numbers as calculated
by Airports Council International), and the
largest of the five primary airports serving
London, Heathrow is the hub for British
Airways and Virgin Atlantic. This 72-year-old
airport holds a distinction for having the best
airport shopping experience. With personal
shopping lounges, a Harry Potter shop and
a blow dry bar, it is clearly the most popular
airport in Western Europe. There are over
400 luxury brands sold at the airport and
restaurants are run by Michelin-star chefs,
including Gordon Ramsay.
Highlight: Michelin Restaurants
JFK
North America’s busiest
passenger gateway, JFK, with its
six terminals (it began with 10) is
definitely busy. Its infrastructure
and passenger handling is
definitely something to talk
about – but the year 2017 gave
the world something else to
keep the conversation flowing.
January 2017 saw the opening
of Ark at JFK Airport, a luxury
terminal for pets.
Highlight: Pets terminal
Words: Anjaly Thomas
Arty

April-May 2018 / 21
Dubai
In a country with many “firsts”, Dubai
International Airport is a world in
itself. Beginning with its reputation
of being the world’s busiest airport
for international travel, Dubai
airport is also home to the world’s
biggest duty-free shopping centre.
Home base of the internationally
recognised Emirates Airlines, Dubai
is also served by 140 airlines as well
as low-cost upstart flydubai, which
handles 13.2 per cent (Reuters)
of the traffic. New concourses
and runways now in the works will
eventually expand capacity to 200
million passengers a year, with
enough space to dock 100 Airbus
A380s, the world’s biggest jet, at a
single time. The lounges and spas
operate on an unimaginably luxurious
level and one could be forgiven for
feeling as though in heaven. Dubai
International Airport, like the city
itself, is a class apart.
Highlight: Duty free shopping
Mumbai
India’s second-busiest airport hub,
Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport in Mumbai
has gone from being an ageing and
overcrowded facility to a gleaming
international hub. Terminal 2, opened
in 2014, is airy, roomy and offers
multiple dining options for passengers
while the First and Business Class
lounges easily rub shoulders with
Dubai or Changi offering spa,
showers and full meals. The new
terminal has added to its boast-list,
the world’s longest cable stayed glass
wall and the world’s largest public
art programme, including a mural of
Bollywood stars.
Terminal 2 was designed by the NYC-
based Skidmore, Owings and Merrill,
which also designed San Francisco
Airport and Changi International
Airport, two urban airports, which, like
Mumbai’s, were strapped for land.
Highlight: The longest cable-
stayed glass
Singapore
As one of the busiest airports in the
world, Changi does take the crown
as the world’s best, that too for the
fifth year in a row. Singapore’s Changi
Airport connects customers to over
200 destinations worldwide, with
5,000 arrivals and departures a week
by 80 international airlines. Home to
Singapore Airlines, Silkair and Tigerair,
the airport has received raving reviews
and appreciation from passengers for
its luxury passenger amenities, seamless
operation, eye-catching architecture and
shopping. Spas, entertainment areas,
movie theatres keep the passengers
occupied during their changeover.
Changi is a destination in itself! The
butterfly garden, waterfalls and open
air-decks find a place of pride at
the airport. What even better is that
passengers with more than six hours
layover can take a free city tour, lounge
by the swimming pool, or binge-watch
flicks at the free 24-hour cinema.
Highlight: Butterfly garden and free
showers

hotspot
On a football
Trail
Sightseeing

April-May 2018 / 23
If you are heading to Russia to attend the 2018 FIFA World Cup,
here is a list of top 5 places that you could enjoy exploring
Words: Ragini Puri
R
ussia has an enviable range of architectural
wonders and spectacular landscapes and is
rich in history and culture. It ranks among
one of the most unique places to travel to in
the world. Being the host of 2018 FIFA World
Cup (June 14-July 15), football fans can soak
in the thrill of witnessing the World Cup and
also make the best of their visit by exploring
the country’s heritage hotspots.
Kazan
Dubbed as the ‘Sports Capital of Russia’,
Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, makes for
a delightful destination for sports-lovers.
The city hosted the 2014 World Fencing
Championships, the 2015 World Aquatics
Championships, 2017 FIFA Confederations
Cup and is one of the host cities for the
2018 FIFA World Cup. This ancient city also
brims with architecturally rich monuments
and landmarks. Amongst them, the Kaza
Kremlin, the Leaning Suyumbike Tower
and the Qol Sharif Mosque are the top
attractions. Grand mosques and churches
are prominent on Kazan’s cityscape and
provide a glimpse into its mixed ethnicities.
St Petersburg
Another host city for the FIFA World Cup, St
Petersburg is the cultural crown of Russia
and a great place to familiarise yourself with
the Russian culture and history. Founded
as the imperial capital by Tsar Peter the
Great in 1703, this city, with a colourful
and chequered history, is now a bustling
metropolis. St Petersburg sees a footfall of
up to five million tourists each year, more
than any other city in Russia.
A treasure trove of ancient delights, St
Petersburg is dotted with attractions that
vie for attention. The historic city centre is a
hugely popular attraction among tourists. A
visit to the city remains incomplete without
entering the art powerhouse of Hermitage,
one of the largest art museums in the world.
Kremlin and Cathedral of St. Basil

hotspot
Roam its vast halls filled with art treasures.
Then explore the mosaic-filled Church of the
Saviour on Spilled Blood. The Winter Palace,
the Peter and Paul Fortress, Peterhof Palace
and Fountains, Mikhaelovsky Theatre and the
apartments-turned state museums of literary
idols Pushkin, Dostoevsky and Nabokov are
worth visiting.
Kizhi Island
Renowned for its centuries-old wooden
architecture, Kizhi Island makes for a serene
and picturesque destination away from the
hustle and bustle of big cities. Located at the
northern end of Lake Onega in the Karelia
region of Northern Russia, visitors need to
take a ferry from Petrozavodsk, the capital of
the Republic of Karelia, to reach the place.
One can also visit the island en route from St
Petersburg to Moscow on a river cruise.
While wooden architecture is common
throughout Russia, Kizhi Island boasts some
of the nation’s most intricate specimens.
The most impressive site on the island
is the Church of the Transfiguration or
Preobrazhenskaya (the Church of 22
Domes). This architectural marvel was built
UNESCO
HERITAGE
SITES
Kazan Kremlin – Kazan
City Centre - St Petersburg
Kizhi Pogost – Kizhi Islands,
Historic Monuments of Novgorod
Surroundings - Veliky Novgorod
Western Caucsus - Sochi
in 1714 using only axes and pine trees, and
without using a single nail. The Church of the
Transfiguration along with the nine-domed
Church of the Intercession and a bell-tower
together form the famous Kizhi Pogost.
Veliky Novgorod
Billed as the ‘Birthplace of Russia’, Veliky
Novgorod (Novgorod the Great) is one of the
most ancient cities of the country. In 2009,
the city celebrated its 1150th anniversary!
Located approximately 110 km from St
Petersburg, fascinating history and vibrant
heritage offers visitors a glimpse into its
evolution as one of the most important cities
of Russia. Novgorod has several imposing
medieval churches and monuments, most
significant among them being the St. Sophia
Cathedral. One of the oldest surviving
buildings in Russia, this cathedral is regarded
as a symbol of the city and stands at the
religious and spiritual centre of Novgorod.
Sochi
One of the 11 host cities for 2018 FIFA
World Cup, Sochi is a coastal resort in
southern Russia’s Krasnodar Krai region.
With its experience of hosting big-league
sporting events such as the XXII Olympic
Winter Games and XI Paralympic Winter
Games in 2014, Sochi has cemented
its position as a popular sporting city
and boasts of a brilliant infrastructure for
tourists. The city offers great opportunities
for sports enthusiasts with options ranging
from mountain climbing, hang-gliding,
diving, sailing, aqua bikes to skiing and
much more.
Russia’s architectural marvels and heritage
charm delight Russians and global visitors
alike. With so much to explore, your time in
Russia is guaranteed to be unforgettable!
Temple of All ReligionsSaint Isaac’s Cathedral

April-May 2018 / 25
Head to the nearest VFS
Global Visa Application
Centre to collect your FAN
ID for the upcoming 2018
FIFA World Cup™
As Russia looks forward to welcoming
football enthusiasts for the 2018 FIFA
World Cup, VFS Global offers extra
convenience to football fans by providing
165 of its Visa Application Centres across
the globe as FAN IDs distribution points.
If you wish to attend the 2018 FIFA
World Cup, you can obtain a FAN ID in
combination with a match ticket. A FAN
ID provides fast and convenient access
to the stadium for all spectators. Foreign
spectators can enter Russia visa-free with
a FAN ID. It also entitles spectators to free
travel on special trains connecting the
host cities and on public transportation of
the host cities on match days. Entry to the
WHAT IS A FAN ID?
CALLING ALL FOOTBALL FANS
Russian Federation with a FAN ID will be
possible starting 10 days prior to the date
of the first match of the 2018 FIFA World
Cup. Visitors must leave Russia using their
FAN IDs within 10 days after the date of
the last match.
When visitors opt to collect the FAN IDs at
the VFS Global centres, the vast network of
centres, easy accessibility, online tracking,
free SMS/email notifications amongst
other advantages, will make it much more
convenient, providing them with greater
speed and transparency in the process,
thereby enhancing their overall World Cup
experience.
“We are prepared to issue up to 2 million
FAN IDs to spectators of the 2018 FIFA
World Cup. FAN ID registration and
issuance are now officially open. We call
upon all international fans who have a
match ticket or a ticket purchase request
confirmed by FIFA to order a FAN ID and
have it delivered either to one of the VFS
Global Visa Application Centres or by mail,”
said Andrei Romankov, Deputy Director of
the Communications Ministry’s Strategic
Projects Department.
Visitors can fill an application for FAN ID
and get one even after purchasing tickets
to attend the event. To apply for a FAN ID,
fill in an application form on www.fan-id.ru
and collect the document at the nearest
VFS Global Visa Application Centre. For
information about the VFS Global Visa
Application centres visit: www.vfsglobal.
com/fan-id/.
• Comfort and safety at the stadium
• Visa-free entry to the Russian
Federation with a FAN ID
• Free use of public transportation on
match days
A FAN ID is a document that all the
spectators of 2018 FIFA World Cup™
matches must have to get access
to stadiums along with a match ticket.

celeb calling
W
hen I came to Mumbai, I had screamed
my desire to rule the city to the sea that
surrounded it. I have a natural affinity to
seas and oceans. I feel I can tell them my
secrets, my dreams and they will take my
dreams and help me realise them. Maybe
this is the reason why I love vacationing in
places that are close to the sea. Whether it
is Malaysia or elsewhere.
One place that truly fascinates me is Dubai.
I am not just saying this because I get paid
to promote tourism there, but also because
I love Dubai enough to have a home there!
Dubai is second home to me. Whether I am
here on vacation with my family and friends
or my many business trips here for shoots –
Happy New Year was the first Bollywood film
to be shot entirely in Dubai – it’s a city that
I truly relate to on so many levels – driven,
passionate and spirited.
Dubai offers endless experiences that stay
with you forever. Whatever you want to do –
an adrenaline-fuelled adventure like skydiving
or a desert safari or a delicious culinary
experience of tantalising flavours – and
whether you’re travelling with family, friends
or as a couple, this city truly offers a complete
holiday experience. It reminds me very much
of Mumbai, in its all-embracing nature and its
multi-cultural vibe. People from all across the
world are welcome in Dubai. The essence of
Dubai is not just in its stunning locations but
its welcoming hospitality too.
Shah Rukh Khan, the brand ambassador to Dubai Tourism, takes us on a journey
through Dubai as he shares his favourite spots and unique experiences of the city
Dubaiis
to me…
Second Home

April-May 2018 / 27
The first thing that impresses me about any
place is the vibe. And this vibe is created
by the people that live there. The people in
Dubai are warm and welcoming - they will
go the extra mile to help you if you are here
for the first time. The warmth and spirit of
the city resonates with me, and the best
part is that experiences can be customised
as per what you want. The variety and
diversity of stunning tourist offerings is
astounding, really.
I am from the film business, so I would
love to talk about the Bollywood Park. A
theme park around Bollywood is a first and
therefore it is a huge attraction. They have
been very kind and have come up with the
popular Ra.one ride and also have a Don-
themed section.
There is so much colour in the spice
markets, the shopkeepers literally invite you
to sample their wares. If you are a fan of
street food, then you will be in gastronomic
heaven in the spice markets.
I love non-vegetarian food, especially
grilled chicken and the homemade
tandoori chicken. I have mutton
occasionally. I prefer Mughlai or
Hyderabadi cuisine, the spicier, the
better! But my favourite food was the
sort my parents would make, often
together. I have grown up on Mughlai
and Deccani food. He was a Pathan and
their love for food is legendary. My father
loved not just eating, but also cooking.
So my Pathan father’s raan would make
a perfect combo with my Hyderabadi
mother’s mutton biryani and the khatti dal.
The sheer variety of food I have tasted in
Dubai is just amazing. I go overboard with
the gastronomic offerings here.
If you are into connecting with nature, do
go to the Dubai Aquarium. It is a favourite
with my children. That, and Legoland. Dubai
Fountain and the Palace Downtown Dubai
are also stunning to look at and enjoy. The
mountainous Hatta region is my favourite
secret getaway. In fact, working with Dubai
Tourism has helped me rediscover this
inspiring city in a whole new way.
Dubai is excellent for adventure and outdoor
lovers. Skydiving at the various spots, with
all those breathtaking buildings and vistas
beneath you, is exhilarating. My son and I
always bum around on the beaches with
volleyball games, while my wife loves the
Dubai Mall. I look forward to getaways that
allow me to have fun in Dubai. I strongly
recommend touring Spice Souk, Skydive
Dubai and the beaches when in Dubai. The
city has something in store for everyone.
A holiday in Dubai is a fascinating, multi-
faceted journey through the city of endless
possibilities. So like I say in those films that
I shot with Dubai Tourism, ‘Be My Guest’.
Seriously, it is heavenly!
As told to Aarti Kapoor Singh
I strongly recommend touring
Spice Souk, Skydive Dubai and the
beaches when in Dubai
Madinat Souk Beach bathing

people Places
Dubai continues to be a preferred
destination for travellers from across the
globe. What makes Dubai standout as a
tourist destination?
Dubai has earned itself an international reputation
as a ‘must-visit’ tourist destination for the diversity of
value offerings and experiences that tourists are able
to enjoy during their stay in the city. The emirate’s
strategic geographic location on the crossroads
of East and West, providing accessibility to two-
thirds of the world’s population within a flight time
of eight hours, is also a key reason why families
look to Dubai as the perfect holiday getaway. Other
factors that make Dubai an attractive destination
include excellent air connectivity from Dubai
Emirate
CHOICEIN THE
SPOLITFOR
International Airport, the world’s No. 1
airport for international passengers, and
simplified immigration procedures. Dubai
International Airport, which is the home base
of Dubai’s international airlines, Emirates and
flydubai, facilitates a vast network of airlines
that together operate flights to over 240
international destinations.
Ranked as the fourth most popular
destination in the world on the MasterCard
Global Destinations Cities Index, Dubai is
also known for its highest quality facilities
and amenities. Tourists have a variety of
accommodation choices in over 680 hotels
that are equipped with over 1,00,000 rooms,
from budget hotels to luxury resorts, as
well as the opportunity to go on a unique
shopping journey at the many malls and
souks and select from a multitude of dining,
leisure and entertainment options for families
and children.
What are the upcoming special
events and festivals in 2018
that visitors to Dubai can look
forward to?
There are plenty of things to do and enjoy
in Dubai even after the curtains come down
on the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF),
as throughout the year, Dubai organises
many other festivals and events across arts,
entertainment, culture and sports with the aim
of enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Apart from DSF, visitors can look forward
to Dubai Food Festival, an annual city-wide
culinary celebration that showcases Dubai’s
position as a gastronomy destination, from
February 22 to March 10. Other special
periods that visitors can look forward to
are Dubai Summer Surprises, which is a
festival aimed at promoting Dubai as a family
holiday destination during the summer, the
3-Day Super Sale, where shoppers can avail
themselves of massive discounts across
several international designer brands and
cultural celebrations showcasing Arab and
Emirati hospitality and traditions during
the month of Ramadan and also Eid. The
festivals and events are not only of a global
scale but also cater to people of all cultural
backgrounds and nationalities in keeping
to the city’s multicultural and cosmopolitan
Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for
Tourism and Commerce Marketing, speaks
up on what makes Dubai class apart

April-May 2018 / 29
setting, as evident in the activities held in
Dubai during Diwali, in recognition of India’s
biggest festival, and the Chinese New Year
celebrations.
Can you elaborate on the Dubai
Travel Shop concept and how
the same is working along with
DCTCM towards boosting tourism
to Dubai.
Dubai Tourism constantly looks at adjusting
its marketing efforts and developing new
marketing initiatives to help promote Dubai
among new audiences and attract more
travellers. We have entered into a partnership
with VFS, a renowned global service provider
for processing visa applications, to introduce
the Dubai Travel Shop at overseas locations
that drive high footfall to promote Dubai
among potential new visitors.
As a first step, our joint efforts will be
focused in India, which is Dubai’s top source
market for tourists and one of the largest
suppliers of outbound tourists. The Dubai
Travel Shop concept features promotional
kiosks that have been introduced at the
Shengen Visa Application Centres operated
by VFS in Delhi and another centre that
has opened in Mumbai in February to
create awareness of the multiple tourism
experiences one can enjoy in Dubai and
encourage new visitors from among those
applying for European visas.
Dubai is known as a travel
destination for all, right from
families with kids to the
adventurous traveller. Can you
highlight some of the services
that are available at the Dubai
Travel Shop, which cater to the
different kinds of travellers?
Currently, the Dubai Travel Shop
provides various services aimed at
raising awareness of Dubai as a tourism
destination and facilitating travel to the
emirate. The kiosk, which is designed to
reflect the characteristics and vibrancy
of the Dubai brand, is equipped with a
TV screen showing content related to
Dubai and promotional Virtual Reality sets
that engage people aiming to apply for
European Visas. Trained staff members at
the kiosk provide information and will try
to sell tour packages and promote Dubai’s
attractions. The staff also helps process
visa applications to the UAE through
the Dubai Visa Processing Centre, an
exclusive facility of VFS Global run on
behalf of Dubai and Emirates Airlines for
processing UAE visa applications.
What are the ongoing efforts
to further boost Dubai-bound
tourism to achieve the Tourism
Vision 2020?
We have adopted a multi-pronged approach
to ensure an increase in tourist arrivals and
achieve our strategic goal of attracting
20 million visitors per year by 2020. One of
the key factors that continue to influence a
rise in visitors to the city is the easing of visa
regulations. Dubai currently offers visas on
arrival for citizens of 50 different nationalities
with nationals of Russia and China, two
of our new source markets, becoming the
latest to benefit from this facility. Further,
to encourage more Indian tourists to visit
the emirate, the UAE has extended visas-
on-arrival to Indian nationals with a valid
American visa or Green Card.
However, hassle-free entry procedures are
only one part of an effective tourism strategy.
We are pleased with the efforts being
carried out by the home-grown airlines,
Emirates and flydubai, to help boost visitor
numbers, including new route launches. Our
vast network of over 20 overseas offices
is also promoting Dubai to the world, in
addition to innovative concepts like the
Dubai Travel Shop. Additionally, we have
an ongoing global marketing campaign
that relies heavily on digital communication
channels and smart technology to promote
Dubai to families and tourists in all our key
source markets.
We are also continuing to work closely with
our public and private sector stakeholders,
especially in the hotel, retail and events
sectors, to further enhance Dubai’s value
offerings that would ultimately lead to
attracting more visitors and accelerating the
pace of growth in Dubai’s tourism industry.
The Dubai Frame
An architectural feat that allows
visitors to get a 360 degree view of
both the new and older parts of the
city from a single location.
Dubai Safari Park
A wildlife experience that had its
soft opening in December 2017, in
addition to La Perle by Dragone
at AI Habtoor City, which has
heralded a new era of theatrical
entertainment.
Theme Parks
The Dubai Parks and Resorts, the
region’s largest integrated theme
park destination and IMG Worlds
of Adventure, the world’s largest
indoor theme park, are always
introducing fresh and innovative
elements aimed at enriching the
entertainment experience for
families. Other attractions of
Dubai Park and Resorts includes:
Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-
inspired theme park, World of The
Hunger Games, featuring rides and
attractions based on blockbuster
movie franchise. Other attractions
here are Bollywood Parks and
Resorts, Legoland Dubai and
Legoland Water Park.
new unique
attractions
that you
recommend

canvas
With several world-class
events marking the annual
calendar, Dubai is fast
becoming the art hub of the
Middle East
Words: Sarah Abdullah
Artistic
Makeover
Dubai’s

April-May 2018 / 31
L
ast year was a watershed year for the UAE’s
art scene. Louvre Abu Dhabi opened, Art
Jameel announced a spacious complex on
Deira Creek and Sharjah Art Foundation
held a retrospective of the Emirates’ most
historically significant artist, Hassan Sharif.
The UAE’s art world has experienced a
remarkable evolution over the past few years,
with events like Art Dubai, Sikka Art Fair and
World Art Dubai taking centre stage. Once
considered a touristy, glitzy region boasting
of only luxury malls, high-rises, yachts and
high-end hotels and restaurants, it is now
emerging as the art hub of the Middle East.
In March 2018, the entire city of Dubai
came alive with 3D art forms, art festivals
and exhibitions and other creative shows.
First up was Dubai Canvas, (March 1 to 7),
which is hailed as a mecca for leading 3D
artists to come together and create brilliant
optical illusions. Several public spaces at La
Mer, the vibrant new beachfront district in
Jumeirah, transformed into unique open-air
canvases for artists to create and display
their work.
The biggest and most-awaited of them
all, however, is Art Dubai (March 21 to
24), which featured 78 galleries from
42 countries, making this year’s edition
the largest and most globally diverse to
date. Both virtual reality and Saudi Arabia
dominated the 12th edition of the festival.
Another fair that has gained a lot of
popularity in a short span of time is the
World Art Dubai. Now in its 4th edition,
(April 18-21), organisers are expecting
to see over 140 exhibitors across five
continents with over 4,000 affordable
contemporary artworks for sale.
An indicator of its ongoing success, Art
Dubai Modern 2018 featured 16 galleries
exhibiting artists from 14 countries. For
the first time, Art Dubai Modern offered
an opportunity to see galleries present
meticulously curated collective exhibitions, in
addition to solo and two-artist shows.
Art Mecca
While in Dubai, of special interest to
art enthusiasts will be the industrial
neighbourhood of Al Quoz where
contemporary art is set among the factories
and warehouses of the area. Anchored by
several galleries on Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
has become one of the most significant
spots of contemporary art in the region.
Growing from just 10 galleries few years ago,
Al Quoz, even by a conservative estimate, is
now home to over 60 art, design and creative
spaces. In fact, international art houses are
making a beeline to enter the art scene in the
region. In 2016, Stéphane Custot opened
Custot Gallery Dubai, adding to his London
gallery, Waddington Custot. Similarly, New-
York based Leila Heller flagged off a 14,000
square-foot gallery in 2015.
There are several other places that are
worth checking out such as Mottahedan
Projects, which was launched by avid art
collector Mohammed Mottahedan in 2011
and stands out for its unconventional
approach to artists and how works
exhibited. Artspace, which opened its
doors in 2003, boasts an elite, international
clientele, which includes prominent private
collectors, architects, interior designers and
diplomats. The Cuadro Fine Art Gallery,
situated within the Dubai International
Finance Centre, focuses on four key
areas of activity – exhibitions, education,
residency and consultation. Also noteworthy
are Lawrie Shabibi and Meem Gallery.
From the masters of modern and
contemporary Middle Eastern art to up-and-
coming talents and emerging international
artists, Dubai has proudly established itself
on the global art map.
Dubai remains a vastly popular travel
destination for travellers across the
globe. Its lure is not only based on
shopping, but also on the ancient and
contemporary attractions that the
destination offers.
In an effort to make the travelling
experience to this global city
more seamless and convenient,
the Department of Tourism and
Commerce Marketing (DTCM)
entered into a unique partnership
with VFS Global in October 2017, to
promote Dubai as a “Destination of
Choice”. An exclusive brand “Dubai
Travel Shop” has been created to
serve this purpose and a first-of-its-
kind kiosk setup at the Joint Visa
Application Centre at the heart of
New Delhi, India. After Delhi, Dubai
Travel Shop is set to open its next
kiosk in Mumbai.
The one-stop centre helps travellers
to the emirates with the opportunity
to book all their Dubai travel
requirements from the same location.
It offers easy access to information
on Dubai and also offers passes to top
attractions, sightseeing, day tours and
airport-local transfers. Also on offer
are various travel-related products
and services, which would enable the
travellers to personalise their journey
all across Dubai in advance and make
their trip a memorable one.
majestic
Dubai

outdoor
Middle
Eastern
Scuba diving and desert safaris are passé. The new wave of
adventures to hit the Middle East range from flyboarding to
mountain climbing. Check them out!
Words: Maryan Al-Dabbagh
Adventure

B
April-May 2018 | 33
ungee jumping off the hundredth floor of a
building, scaling rugged mountains, diving
deep into the sea, or riding huge roller
coasters, adventure sports such as these
have always hooked thrill-seekers who
will go the extra mile for that electrifying
feeling. The Middle East has always been a
fascinating place with its different cultures
and rich history, but it’s also a mecca for
travellers looking for heart-pumping thrills.
Flyboarding in Dubai
Glitzy shopping malls, seven-star hotels and
a lavish lifestyle are few things that come
to mind when you think of Dubai. However,
this is just half the Dubai story. Today this
emirate in the UAE has transformed itself
into a city filled with action and adventures.
While skydiving with an exotic view of The
Palm has been a popular activity for a while,
the latest thrill on the grid is flyboarding.
Flyboarding combines a jet ski turbine with
a wakeboard, enabling you to fly above the
ocean or dive under like a dolphin. It’s easy
to learn. A coach and a jet ski usually tail
you throughout your journey to keep an eye
on how well you are doing. What’s great
about this sport is that it can be done on
any day, regardless of the weather.
Via Ferrata in Oman
Not for the faint-hearted, the latest via
ferrata (iron paths) climbing route in Oman
offers unparalleled views. Opened last
year, Alila Jabal Akhdar’s new via ferrata
route is the highest in the Middle East. It
is also probably the most memorable way
to experience Oman’s Jabal Al Akhdar, or
Green Mountain, an expanse of craggy
cliffs and limestone rock formations
overlooking a perilous gorge. Offering
different experiences at different levels,
the adventure activity has been designed
keeping varying needs and physical
capabilities in mind.
So how does it work? Climbers attach
themselves to cables using a waist
Jordan canyoning

harness and carabiner clips. While
their legs remain free, the explorers use
their hands to grip the steel cables and
trace the rock face, offering a view of
the area’s desert-like landscape from
an exhilarating angle. Despite the epic
heights, there’s no training required and
anyone over 12 years old can book the
guided experience.
Pearl Diving in Bahrain
A key part of life in Bahrain for centuries,
pearl diving is a classic Bahraini experience.
For more than 2,000 years, Bahrain’s pearls
have been prized as some of the best
natural pearls in the world. While it was shut
for tourists for over 80 years, it opened up
recently as a drive to boost tourism to the
island nation.
The beach resort of Al Dar Island offers
regular pearl dives and cruises to Jarada
Island where you can go pearl diving on your
own. Visitors just need to follow a simple six-
step guide to become a modern pearl diver.
The best part of this adventure - if you find a
pearl whilst diving, it’s yours to keep!
In addition to pearls, you also get the chance
to see up to 30 types of coral and more
than 200 species of fish. Dolphin watching
around the many reefs is another popular
outing. For nature enthusiasts, a 45-minute
ferry ride from Al Dur Jetty to Hawar Island
can be a wonderful experience. Renowned
as a wildlife preserve, the islands offer
pristine beaches and a chance to spot
dolphins and rare birds.
The beach resort of Al Dar Island offers
regular pearl dives and cruises to
Jarada Island where you can go pearl
diving on your own
outdoor
Pearl diving, Bahrain

April-May 2018 / 35
Canyoning in Jordan
Proudly called the ‘Grand Canyon of
Jordan’, Wadi Mujib stretches almost 70
kms from the Desert Hwy to the Dead
Sea. And canyoning is the perfect way
for adventure-seekers to experience the
challenges and beauty of Jordan’s canyons.
The trail starts at the Visitor Centre near
the Mujib Bridge, where you take the
cantilevered walkway over the dam and
follow the course of the river between
towering sandstone cliffs to the base of
a large waterfall. Depending on seasonal
rainfall levels, the gorge may sometimes
contain pools deep enough for swimming. It
is an ideal way to take it easy and enjoy the
cool water and shade, especially in the heat
of the summer.
Road trippin’ in Saudi Arabia
A great way to discover the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia is to criss-cross the country
on its numerous highways. The Kingdom
possesses a variety of routes – from
deserts to mountains – giving a wide
range of options to travellers looking for
adventure journeys. One among them is
the trip to Taif from Jeddah, crossing the
Al Hada mountain range. Considered
one of the most beautiful mountain roads
in the region, this route connects Taif
city to other areas of the west and
north. The views are enchanting and
attractive even by the night. Hairpin
bends, beautiful greenery, flower gardens
and fresh water springs are few of the
highlights of this journey.
Best food
Mansaf is a dish of rice, lamb and a
dry yoghurt made into a sauce called
jameed. It’s not only one of the most
beloved Jordanian foods, but is also
considered the national dish of Jordan.
Where to try
While a lot of restaurants serve
Mansaf, Al-Quds is the best one.
Jordanian
delight
Flyboarding, Dubai

people places
The UK continues to be a
preferred destination for Indian
travellers, is there an effort to
further boost UK-bound tourism,
and if so, then in what way?
India and the UK are already very well-
connected here, and recent statistics show
this. The last year was strong for tourism
from India to the UK, with 278,000 visits
from tourists in the first six months of 2017,
up 45% on the same time in 2016 – and
those visitors spent £224 million between
January and June 2017, up 19%. This is
reflected in our visa numbers. We grant
over half a million visas a year to Indian
nationals, and the vast majority of those are
visit visas.
DRIVING
WE ARE
MarketTHE
A key priority for us is to boost the UK’s
prosperity – so UKVI works closely with
the Department for International Trade, Visit
Britain and other agencies and external
partners to promote the UK as a destination
for work, study and tourism. It’s always
great to be able to highlight the fantastic
destinations the UK has to offer.
Can you share some insights
into what is happening in the
visa market and how UKVI is
responding?
First and foremost, numbers are increasing.
UK visas granted to Indian nationals number
well over half a million, an 11% increase
since last year across all visa categories.
Secondly, the customer base is demanding
more and more by way of convenience. We
are working hard to meet that demand, in
conjunction with our commercial partner,
VFS Global. However, we are not just
responding to the market, we are driving
it. With the numbers increasing, we are
focusing even more on our ‘Beat the Peak’
campaign. Our headline advice is practical
and simple: apply as early as possible. Your
visa will start from your proposed travel
date, which can be up to three months in
advance of when you apply, and will be valid
for six months (or longer if you apply for a
longer-term visa). So if you’re travelling in
July and want to avoid the busiest times for
processing, why not apply in April?
UKVI has always been at the
forefront of developing solutions
to improve the visa process for
applicants. Can you elaborate on
the various services and products
offered?
Of course, and there are almost too many
to talk about! But I’ll split these into two:
Firstly, we are providing more ways to
apply. The UK has more Visa Application
Centres in India than anywhere else – and
I was lucky enough to accompany the
former UK Immigration Minister, Brandon
Lewis, as he opened our newest centre (in
Whitefield, Bengaluru) in November last
year. This means more locations to make
your application and less need to travel. We
are also looking at expanding other services,
such as the On Demand Mobile Visa service
Nick Crouch - Regional
Director for South and
South East Asia, UK
Visas and Immigration -
talks to Compass about
changing customer
demands and how UKVI
stays ahead of the game

April-May 2018 / 37
UK visas granted
to Indian nationals
number well over half
a million, a
9% increase since
2016 across all
visa categories
that takes the application process out into
the workplace or home, adding an even
greater level of convenience.
Secondly, our partnership with VFS Global
means we can offer additional services to
make customers’ applications easier. You
can ask for a Priority or Super Priority Visa
service to get your application in five days
or one day respectively. Or you can access
primetime appointments, SMS updates
and premium lounges to make the process
easier and more comfortable. You can also
use the courier service so you don’t need
to return to the Visa Application Centre to
collect your passport.
All of this is geared to further improving
the customer experience. What makes me
particularly proud is the number of those
innovations that have been introduced as
a direct result of customer feedback. So
if the suggestions keep coming, we can
keep improving.
Technological advancements
have made quite an impact on the
way we apply for visas (e.g. the
introduction of biometrics). Do
you foresee any other significant
changes in the way Indians apply
for a UK visa going forward?
This is a big priority for UKVI and a lot of
work is going on in this area. Right now,
a series of projects are underway that
will deliver significant customer service
changes for the better. For instance,
we will improve the digital experience,
allowing customers to upload supporting
documentation using digital devices.
Furthermore, we just recently announced that
90% of customers worldwide are now able
to apply for their new visa, visa extension
or change of visa type via Access UK,
significant growth here, with this year’s
numbers up 28% compared to the previous
year. In the last year, 94% of Tier 4 students
who applied were granted their visa.
To help support our student customers, late
last year we promoted our Don’t Be Late for
Class campaign. This was aimed at students,
agents, universities and others to encourage
early application and use of the correct
documents and supporting evidence. We also
work closely with key partners including British
Council to help us support students across
India through the visa application process.
How is the UK’s European Union
(EU) exit expected to impact
immigration laws for Indians
looking to migrate to the UK?
After we leave the EU, we will put in place
an immigration system which works in the
best interests of the whole of the UK. We
have been clear that we want a deep and
special relationship with our EU neighbours
and, of course, we want EU citizens to
continue to feel welcome here.
Additionally there are new opportunities for
Britain to look globally to increase shared
prosperity with partners. Indeed, the Prime
Minister recently announced measures to
boost the UK’s world-class tech sector
- including doubling the number of visas
available to tech talent from around the
world. India, with its own internationally-
recognised tech sector, is well-placed to
benefit from initiatives such as this.
VisitBritain is actively promoting
the destination in India. How does
UKVI work with the tourism board,
to increase the tourist inflow?
VisitBritain increases awareness of the
huge amount the UK has to offer visitors,
and UKVI manages the visa process.
Where we can specifically help out is
debunking some of the myths around the
visa system, such as how hard it is to get
a visa. Remember, approximately nine out
of ten Indians who apply are granted a
UK visa – and that adds up to well over
half a million annually. Britain continues
to offer great value for visitors from India.
In October 2017, Britain was on average
14% more affordable for visitors from India
compared to the same month in 2015.
You won’t be surprised to hear that
London is the primary destination
for Indians travelling to the UK. It
is the main point of entry and, as a
Londoner myself, I know that the city
has wonderful tourism destinations
and opportunities.
Beyond that, however, we are
seeing an increasing diversity of
destinations from Indian tourists.
Scotland continues to be popular, but
so are the towns and countryside of
Yorkshire and Cornwall, the valleys
of Wales and also Northern Ireland –
where most of Game of Thrones was
filmed and some incredible natural
sights like the Giant’s Causeway are
to be found.
Additionally, given India’s love for
cricket, England and Wales’ hosting
of the Cricket World Cup in 2019
means there is a huge opportunity to
inspire Indian visitors to book a trip
and explore more of Britain.
And in terms of winter trips there is a
lot the UK has to offer. From Christmas
markets, including Hyde Park’s Winter
Wonderland, to celebrating Scot-style
at the Oban Christmas Festival, there
is so much on offer during the festive
season. If you’re lucky, you might even
get a bit of snow.
What are the new
and emerging
destinations in
the UK that you
recommend for
Indian visitors,
anything ‘off
the beaten path’
perhaps? We
are hearing
that winter
destinations are
more popular for
Indians nowadays.
– any tips?
the Home Office’s new online application
service. Access UK is replacing the visa4uk
website, and offers a dynamic online
alternative to hundreds of paper forms.
Since the UK is a big destination
for students in particular, how
are you promoting student travel
in India?
The UK is really keen to encourage genuine
students to study in the UK. India is third
globally in the number of UK student
visas granted. Furthermore, we have seen

A
cityscape
BelfastKnown for its cool hangouts, galleries and vibrant nightlife,
Belfast in Northern Ireland is a destination worthy of a mini break
place that has recently found its way
into the tourist-circuit with its emerging
cosmopolitan environment and endearing
history, Belfast in Northern Ireland is an
ideal weekend destination. One of its most
appealing features is the fact that the city is
segregated into ‘quarters’, each with its little
quirks. While the Cathedral Quarter boasts
of buzzing pubs and high-end restaurants,
the Queen’s Quarter seems to be one with
nature as it houses the Botanical Gardens
and the lush green university premises.
Here’s how to make the most of two days
in the capital and the second largest city of
Northern Ireland.
Day 1
Morning: After a hearty breakfast at
Granny Annie’s, kick-start your Belfast
experience by paying ode to the city’s rich
ship-building traditions. Visit the Titanic
Belfast - the world’s largest museum
dedicated to the infamous ship. A walk
through nine interactive galleries give you
a complete Titanic experience, from its
ship-building days to its tragic demise at
the bottom of the Atlantic. You can also
get a sense of the grandeur of maritime life
by walking the decks of the last remaining
White Star vessel, the SS Nomadic. Once
48hours in
City Hall
Words: Rhucha Kulkarni

April-May 2018 | 39
you’re done, head to the Odyssey Complex,
a sports and entertainment arena in the
Titanic Quarter. Catch an entertaining show,
or try your hand at bowling alley for a perfect
mid-morning break.
Afternoon: Delve deeper into Irish
history with a visit to the Crumlin Road
Gaol, a former prison. Several organised
tours will help you discover the prison’s
chequered past. If you are brave enough,
opt for the ‘Paranormal Tour’. It will take
you to the sites where paranormal activities
have been reported along with chilling
details of some of the executions. After
satiating your appetite for Ireland’s history,
it’s time to appease your appetite. For
some local fare, visit the award-winning
St. George’s market, which is housed in a
gorgeous Victorian architectural building.
Tap to the tunes of live music, while digging
into some local delicacies like Ulster fry and
Belfast Bap, which are excellent options for
a late lunch.
Evening: What better way to capture a
city’s sunset than from the vantage point of
the Cave Hill Country Park. Hike up a short
distance to reach the summit of McArt’s
Fort at the crest of the hill. On a clear day,
you may even be lucky to see as far as
Scotland! Or look out from the towering
relics of the Belfast Castle for a panoramic
view of the city.
Post-sunset, it’s time to hit the famous
Belfast pub scene, starting with the
renowned Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast’s
most famous bar. Take in the sumptuous
with stained glass, marble and mahogany
decor while enjoying a drink. Next up
– some crazy pub-hopping in the hip
Cathedral Quarter along with some fantastic
food. A great way to end the day!
Day 2
Morning: Load up your energy reserves
by digging into some delicious eggs at
the famous National Grande Café. For
more on Ireland’s maritime history, pay a
visit to the HMS Caroline. A walk through
the Captain’s Cabin, Royal Marines
Mess and Seamen’s Wash is a window
into the world of seafarers during the
war days of 1916. To enjoy a different
take on history, visit the Ulster Museum.
Artefacts and art offer a peek into earlier
Irish life. What’s more, kids can have
a blast at the interactive Nature Zone,
For some local fare, visit the award-
winning St. George’s market and tap to
the tunes of live music, while digging
into some local delicacies
Titanic Belfast Museum
City view

complete with exhibits from natural history,
geology and other educational subjects.
An interesting detour is the Ulster Folk
Museum, a reconstructed Irish village with
farmhouses, mills and churches, which will
orient you to the traditional Irish lifestyle.
Then, move from past to present-day
Belfast with a guided tour of the Belfast
City Hall to understand the current affairs
of this thriving city.
Afternoon: As the late afternoon
sun warms your body and soul, indulge
in some green therapy at the Botanic
Gardens. It was originally Charles
Lanyon’s (the architect) beautiful Palm
House, built in 1839. Be sure not to miss
the Lord Kelvin statue and pay homage
to the inventor of the Kelvin scale. Just
stroll through the enchanting lawns of
the Queen’s University and admire the
Victorian architectural grandeur. If you are
an art aficionado, it will do your creative
soul a world of good to check out the
Metropolitan Arts Centre (The Mac) or
even splurge on a music or comedy show
at the Black Box.
at sunset. For those of you seeking a
more local shopping experience, head to
Wellington Street and load up on vintage
and arty souvenirs.
Give your Belfast escape the perfect
ending with some culinary indulgence, the
Michelin-star way. Ox and Deanes Eipic
are great options to choose from, for their
multi-course culinary excellence.
Belfast is an ideal mix of history, culture,
nature, fun and so much more. It works
well for an action-packed sightseeing
holiday and is a wonderful way to spend
quality time with your loved ones. Be sure
to plan your Belfast getaway soon!
How to Reach: The George Best
Belfast Airport is the nearest local
airport, about four kilometres from the
City Centre. It has several regular flights
from London. Belfast International
Airport is further away but serves
more international destinations. Dublin
Airport is another alternative, about 160
kilometres away.
Evening: End your day with a shopping
spree at Victoria Square, Belfast’s
premier retail centre. It’s a great idea
to take the stairs to the top of the glass
dome and soak in the beautiful cityscape
Connectivity
7.8 million passengers travelled
through Belfast International
Airport and George Best Belfast
City Airport in 2016.
Tourism
There are over 1.4 million overnight
trips per year contributing £278
million to the economy (2015).
Source: belfastcity.gov.uk
Fast Facts
cityscape
Beacon of Hope statue St. Anne’s Cathedral

Globetrotter
Check out what’s on
around the world in
the months of April
and May!
Eventplanner
Snowbombing
April 3-8, Mayrhofen, Austria
Snowbombing is a music festival that takes place
at the Mayrhofen Ski Resort in Austria. The lineup
for this event includes a selection of international
artists across genres, like Liam Gallagher, Dizzee
Rascal and Pendulum. The festival also includes
more than 100 acts showcasing igloo rave,
enchanted forest party, Austria’s largest fancy
dress street party, etc.
Bahrain Grand Prix
April 6-8, Kingdom of Bahrain
The Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air
Bahrain Grand Prix will take place
at the Bahrain International Circuit.
The best of motorsports will line
up for an epic 57 lap battle and
will witness racing stars like Lewis
Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas, Sebastian
Vettel, Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando
Alonso, Daniel Ricciardo, Max
Verstappen among others.
Commonwealth Games
April 4-15, Gold Coast, Australia
This will be the fifth time that Australia has hosted the Games,
the others being – 1938 Sydney, 1962 Perth, 1982 Brisbane
and 2006 Melbourne. As the first regional Australian city
to host the Commonwealth Games, it will be the biggest
sporting spectacular the Gold Coast has ever seen.
Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
April 6-13, Seoul, South Korea
The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival will give visitors a chance
to catch a glimpse of beautiful spring flowers such as azaleas,
forsythia, royal azaleas, in full bloom. Besides enjoying the
splendour and fragrances of spring, visitors can also witness
street performances, fireworks and photo exhibitions here.
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2
3
4

April-May 2018 / 43
Songkran
April 13-15, Bangkok and
Chiang Mai, Thailand
An annual event that marks the
beginning of the Thai New Year,
celebrations for Songkran start
with water fights followed by
cultural celebrations, traditional
performances and a spread of street
food, something that is enjoyed by
Thai locals and tourists alike.
Stars of the White Night
May 26- July 23, Saint
Petersburg, Russia
Stars of the White Night prides itself
in showcasing the masterpieces
of music and theatre. The event
boasts of world class programmes,
which include finest opera and ballet
productions, great symphonic works,
masterpieces of chamber music and
new premieres.
Gathering of
Nations Indian
PowWow
April 28-30, Albuquerque,
New Mexico
Over 2,500 indigenous/native
American/Indian dancers and
singers from Canada and the
US come annually to participate
socially and competitively.
Cannes Film Festival
May 8-19, Cannes, France
One of the most important film
festivals in the world, the Cannes
Film Festival takes place every
May. The festival, which is all
set to roll its 71st edition on the
French Riviera, is planning some
radical changes like to begin
the 12-day annual event on a
Tuesday, instead of a Wednesday,
and end it on a Saturday, not the
customary Sunday.
New Orleans Jazz
Heritage Festival
April 27- May 6, New Orleans, Louisiana
The festival brings together talented musicians from
around the world. The line-up for this year includes
maestros like Aerosmith, Aretha Franklin, Sting
Jimmy Buffett and Lionel Richie, among others.
King’s Day
April 27, Amsterdam, the
Netherlands
King’s Day marks the gaudy-colour
loving Dutch monarch’s birthday with
a huge street party. The fun begins
the night before, and the celebrations
continue into the next day.
5
6
9
8
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about VFS
A
s 2018 begins, it is a good time to reflect on
the past year and prepare for the new one.
In 2017, Dubai saw the fruits of an AED 25.5
billion inflow in foreign investment, keeping
it in the top 10 global cities to attract
such investment, according to FDI*. Many
businesses have remained flexible in support
of such growth, by innovating products and
services with foreign investors in mind.
The DIFC Wills Service Centre is one such
example, supporting this level of investment
by offering them stability and peace of mind.
Many foreign investors, and even residents
of Dubai and/or Ras Al Khaimah, are not
aware that due to Sharia Law, if your Will
is not registered with the Government of
Dubai, any Dubai- and/or Ras Al Khaimah-
owned assets may not be passed on as per
your wishes.
However, since May 2015, residents and
investors in Dubai and/or Ras Al Khaimah
have had the option provided by the DIFC
Wills Service Centre of choosing how to
protect their assets via a Will. This is a
first-of-its-kind service in the MENA region,
enabling the registration of an English
language Will under common law. In other
words, this is the surest and most efficient
option to protect your assets, and the only
one, apart from Sharia Law, that provides
certainty of succession and inheritance in
line with your wishes.
If you have, or are planning to acquire,
assets in Dubai and/or Ras Al Khaimah, the
DIFC Wills inheritance calculator allows
you to find out how Sharia Law might affect
their distribution. You can access
the calculator through the website at
difcprobate.ae/calculator
The DIFC Wills Service Centre –
for Foreign Investors
In 2017, the innovative ‘Virtual Registry’, an
extension of the DIFC Wills Service Centre,
was launched with overseas asset-holders
in mind. The smart service enables eligible
investors living outside of the UAE to create,
register, witness and store a Will for Dubai
and Ras Al Khaimah assets from anywhere
in the world.
When registering a Will online, the DIFC Wills
Service Centre has three options available for
eligible investors to access remotely.
Property Will – An online facility that
enables eligible persons to complete and
submit for registration a DIFC Will, which
can encompass up to five real estate
In 2017, the innovative
‘Virtual Registry’, an
extension of the DIFC
Wills Service Centre,
was launched with
overseas asset-holders
in mind
SECURE YOUR ASSETS in
FROM ANYWHERE in the world
DUBAI RAS AL KHAIMAH

April-May 2018 | 45
properties (or a share in up to five real estate
properties) that are situated in either the
Emirate of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.
Free Zone Company Share Will –
An online Will that enables eligible persons
to register a DIFC Will, which is specific
to their free zone and RAK International
Corporate Centre (RAKICC) registered
companies, and can encompass up to five
separate shareholdings.
Financial Assets Will – Known
as the ‘Will for Everyone’, whereby any
eligible person can complete and submit
for registration of a DIFC Will online, it can
encompass up to 10 separate bank and
brokerage accounts.
In addition, the DIFC Wills Service
Centre also offers standard Full Will and
Guardianship Will options via in-person
registration at their Dubai offices.
Global Security Identity
Verification Services Offering
Peace of Mind
The Virtual Registry is a smart government
service that for the first time enables global
investors and asset owners wanting to
register a Will to do so from wherever
they are in the world. Assisted by a team
of DIFC specialists, eligible testators can
complete the entire process via their laptop
or smartphone.
In the wake of reports that the number of
Wills being contested all over the world
is a concern, DIFC Wills Service Centre
partnered with VFS Global, the world’s
largest outsourcing and technology
services specialist for governments and
diplomatic missions worldwide, to provide
those registering their Will with high-level
security assurance.
VFS Global’s extensive global network
gives DIFC Will customers free access
to online identity verification services
across the globe, enabling customers
to conveniently complete their identity
verification process within 30 days in their
country of residence. VFS Global will
authenticate the identity of the Will owner
by checking against government-issued
identification cards or passports. The
identity credentials will then be passed
on to the DIFC in a secure manner to be
stored on an encrypted server, along with
the Will, for 120 years.
For an identity check at home or in the
office, customers can request the mobile
service via an appointment, as long as they
are located within a reasonable distance
from a VFS Global centre.
Following the recent introduction of ‘The
Law for Administration of non-Muslim
Estates in Dubai and Execution of their
Wills’, registering Wills with DIFC to ensure
Dubai- and/or Ras Al Khaimah-owned assets
are secured for the future has become more
important. Furthermore, the added protection
received through identity verification provides
testators the assurance that their Will cannot
be disputed at a later date on the grounds
that someone impersonated them at the time
of signing.
The DIFC Wills Registration
Service
DIFC Wills Service Centre is an initiative of
the Dubai Government. It gives effect to the
freedom provided by UAE Personal Status
Law, which allows non-Muslims the ability
to choose what happens to their assets
when they pass away, in a simple, secure
and confidential process, enabling them to
take care of tomorrow. The number of Wills
registered to date, over 3,000, is primarily
led by resident and non-resident Indian
and British investors, with an increasing
number of Chinese, Russian, American and
Canadian nationals also utilising the service
– a trend that continues to grow.
If you are eligible to register a Will
and you have decided which type of
offering is right for you, the next step is
to organise all the necessary documents
you need to proceed.
The Registry is not qualified to give legal
advice for the actual drafting of the Will, so
you are strongly advised to do this with one
of its registered Will Draftsmen. Its website
lists all legal practitioners who comply with
the Registry’s rules on its website.
To access the DIFC Wills online Virtual
Registry and begin the process of
registering your Will please visit
www.difcwills.ae.
*http://gulfnews.com/business/economy/dubai-attracted-AED-25.5-billion-in-foreign-investment-in-2016-hamdan-bin-mohammad-says-1.2004013

about VFS
K
VFS-Oxademy offers
online-guided learning
programmes for
students worldwide. It
launches ‘Mykro’, the
world’s first mobile
‘AI based’ training,
communication and
engagement platform
eeping pace with the evolving landscape
of teaching and learning, VFS Edu Support
Services Pvt. Ltd. launched ‘VFS-Oxademy’
in 2016, a digital learning platform in
partnership with UK-based Edtech Oxademy
Technologies and its subsidiary, the
Oxademy Business School.
VFS-Oxademy Online
Programmes:
VFS-Oxademy programmes are designed
for dynamic professionals and individual
learners looking to develop their strategising,
business analysis and leadership skills. The
following courses are designed to help
unleash human potential while positioning
students for professional advancement:
• MBA: Master of Business
Administration
• MSL: Masters in Strategic Leadership
• MSOL: Masters of Science in
Organisational Leadership
• GLDP: Global Leadership Development
Programme (4-6 months professional
certificate programme)
• Advanced Diploma in Strategic
Leadership and Negotiation (five-day
residential programme, every August, at
Jesus College, Oxford)
Why VFS-Oxademy?
• Courses are delivered in either a complete
online mode or ‘blended’ mode, which
combine online and classroom learning
• Faculty affiliated with the world’s leading
universities
• Courses include world-renowned guest
speakers who provide global networking
opportunities
• Award-winning “Guided Online Learning”
platform understands every learner’s
learning preferences
• Systems compatible with all devices
• Learners have access to the world’s
largest digital library (selection of 1M+
ANYTIME,
Anywhere
Learn

April-May 2018 | 47
ebooks, 750+ publishers and 1,500
imprints) and the best research-led
business intelligence publishing platform
• Opportunities to work on a real-world
project with an Oxademy Industry
Partner (OIP)
• Courses include live interactive tutorials,
accessible from a PC, Mac and any
portable device
• Significantly lower cost compared to the
same on-campus programme
• Degrees are identical and on par with
on-campus programmes
The unique feature of VFS-Oxademy’s
online modules is that it uses OX360, the
award-winning Artificial Intelligence (AI)
cloud infrastructure/technology, which is
sensitive to the specific behaviour and
learning patterns of each individual learner.
According to the personalised learning
pathway rolled out for the individual learner,
he/she can finish the degree course in a
period of 16, 24 or 36 months.
Busy executives wishing to advance their
job prospects by bettering their educational
qualification can conveniently log on to the
VFS-Oxademy study programmes after
office hours and earn their degrees in due
course without taking leave from work.
The entry requirements
for enrolling in the study
programmes include:
• A minimum of a lower second-class
honours degree or equivalent qualification
• A minimum of two years relevant work
experience, which includes managerial
responsibility (work experience is a
must for MBA)
• English proficiency test (IELTS 6
or equivalent)
VFS-Oxademy launches
‘Mykro’
In a move towards transforming the way
businesses and organisations impart training
to their employees, VFS-Oxademy has
recently launched ‘Mykro’ – the world’s first
adaptive, multi-sensorial, micro-learning
platform that uses the latest Artificial
Intelligence (AI) technology to provide one-
on-one engagement and learning.
Mykro is a mobile, user-centric and highly
flexible learning platform that provides effective,
fast, personalised and attention-grabbing
training, which helps modern organisations
better train and engage with their staff.
How can Mykro transform the
way employees learn?
• Provides a secure AI-based and cloud-
based micro-learning platform
• Creates and delivers concise, engaging
and relevant training
• Accessible anytime, anywhere
• Uses smart communication cards and
notifications to send updates on the
latest company news
• Creates engaging and accessible
micro-learning courses and staff
communication messages
• Segments and manages learners so that
training and communication is tailored by
region, role, etc.
• Deep analytics to track training
progress, engagement, completion, ROI,
and other KPIs
• Compatible with iOS and Android mobile
platforms
• Larger content is automatically broken
into smaller bite-sized modules
• Available at a fraction of the cost of
any online or offline learning with
maximum impact
The Mykro platform is currently being used
by several large organisations, including
one of the top four consultancies, four
universities, a training provider and the
world’s largest retail education site.
In India, Quality Education Support Trust
(Quest) and Unicef are using the Mykro
platform to move from older, slower, less
engaging and static learning resources to a
robust online library of evolving, ‘just-in-
time’ and well-aligned courses for teachers
based in India in their own languages and
local context.
Multi-platform Technology:
Mykro works on all device

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