1

Reclaiming lost musicallegacy

26 30Oman'sRoundabouts 20 Make

meetings effective

36Give your children a book

www.omanair.aero

A land of charm and history

YOUR FREE COPY Volume 1 - 2007

3

MarhabaDear Passenger,

Winds of Change

Not long ago, air travel in Oman was characterised by a limited number of connections. Oman Air’s arrival in 1993, with

a single 737-300 airplane that connected Muscat and Salalah, changed the scene dramatically. Today, Oman’s national

carrier connects 20 destinations around the world, including two gateways in the Sultanate. It has truly supplemented

the development of tourism in Oman. Little wonder, Oman is emerging as a premier tourist destination across the

Middle East.

It is the passengers who have scripted Oman Air’s success story in 2006. We wholeheartedly express our sincere

thanks to all the passengers who travelled with Oman Air. And we hope to carry forward Oman Air’s commitment to

better service this year too.

Keeping pace with time and technology, Wings of Oman, buoyed by its remarkable success, has incorporated some

changes beginning with the first issue of the year 2007. Besides the size enhancement, the issue has new columns like

International events and general information on Oman. The section ‘International events’ will serve as a useful guide to

our readers to plan out their itinerary to fairs and exhibitions well in advance while the ‘general information on Oman’

will help those coming to Oman for the first time. We have also included new sections that focus on technology, sports

and other interesting day to day issues.

This compendium takes you to Jordan, a place where heritage abounds. Oman Air recently started its service to

Amman, Jordan’s fabulous capital.

Oman’s traffic roundabouts and junctions are the most elaborate and decorative you will ever see. Each one of them

is adorned with an artistic creation: maybe a dhow, or a giant coffee-pot. This is a country where art is an intrinsic part

of life and the issue unfolds these artistic objects with colourful pictures.

This issue also sees the reclamation of the lost legacy of the Oud, an Arabic musical instrument.

The section on business, health, trivia, etc has interesting features which will widen your knowledge base. We also

seek suggestions from our esteemed readers to help improve the magazine further.

Have a pleasurable flight with friends.

Ziad Karim Al Haremi

Chief Executive Officer

Marhaba

4

20Oman’s RoundaboutsOman’s roundabouts will walk

away with the cake

Contents

If ever there is a land that has yoked stunning history with equally stunning landscapes and drawn them forward with a sprightly march of modernity, then it is Jordan

12Cover StoryA land of charm and history

20

26Reclaiming lost musical legacyOud, unlike many other stringed instruments, allows the player to be more expressive by using slides and vibrato

26

30Give your children a book

Books open up a world of fantasy, interaction, knowledge, creativity

and diversity

30

Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by:Corporate Communications & Media Department - Oman AirP.O. Box: 58, Seeb Airport, Postal Code 111, Seeb International Airport, Sultanate of OmanTel: +968 24519616, Fax: +968 24510771E-mail: wings@omanair.aero Website: www.omanair.aero

For Oman advertising enquiries contact: Publishers:

National Publishing And Advertising LLC (NPA)P.O. Box: 3112, P.C. 112, RuwiMuscat, Sultanate of OmanTel: +968 24793098, Fax: +968 24708445E-mail: advertising@npaoman.comWebsite: www.npaoman.com

The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.

All copyrights are reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without our written permission.

For regional/international advertising enquiries contact:Media Score Services Dubai Media City,P.O. Box 502023, Dubai, UAE.Tel: +971 4 3908030, Fax: +971 4 3908031E-mail: kazansc@cyberia.com.lb

32ECG: myths and facts

The ECG is an indispensable tool but there are many wrong ideas

about its use

32

36Make meetings effectiveA meeting is only effective when it achieves its objectives in minimum time to the satisfaction of the participants

36

40Fun Corner

Interesting bits of information

42Tech CapsuleA holiday gift guide for those on the go

40

42

6

Contents

8

Oman Air inaugurated its first flight on the new sector

Muscat - Amman on 11th December, 2006. The Company’s

official delegation was headed by the Chairman, H.E. Said bin

Hamdoon Al Harthy and Mr. Ziad bin Karim Al Haremi - Chief

Executive Officer, in addition to a number of the company’s

officials. Various media representatives accompanied the

delegation for comprehensive coverage of the happening, as

also The Jazz Band of The Royal Omani Guards.

The Royal Omani Guards' Jazz Band, comprising 32

members enthralled the audience in Jordan, with its musical

prowess in jazz as well as contemporary music. In addition

to the classic Arabic and Omani renditions, the Royal Omani

Guards' Jazz Band excelled in its universal musical repertoires,

thereby making Oman Air's inaugural flight to Amman an

absolute success.

N e w s

The airline is proud to add Amman to its growing network.

The new sector will prop up the two countries' collaboration

in the aviation field, and Oman Air is delighted to contribute

in making Amman a tourist destination, as passengers will

exchange excursions, and enjoy each others authentic

hospitality. The expansion of the Oman Air network will not

in any way reflect negatively on our high-quality services,

Mr. Ziad Al Haremi, Oman Air's CEO said.

He added, the inauguration of this sector between Oman

and Jordan through Seeb Airport will play an active role in

strengthening the historical relationship between the two

brotherly countries Oman and Jordan. It will also assist in

supporting the economic cooperation opportunities especially

within the commerce and tourism sectors. Oman has got great

cultural, historical and traditional potentials. The government

undergoes immense endeavours to buttress the tourism

sector, which is a significant added income resource, and an

indicator of the nation’s progress in different spheres.

Oman Air is operating 3 non-stop weekly flights on Saturday,

Monday and Wednesday. This is a move towards the company’s

strategy to add more destinations in the Middle East with the aim

of strengthening mutual cooperation and travel opportunities

with nations worldwide, in addition to promoting tourism and

upholding the outstanding relationship shared between the

two brotherly countries.

Oman Air inaugurates

its new sector to Amman

10

N e w s

With

Oman Air’s Holidays, Fly ‘n’ Float

We understand that as a frequent flyer, you are looking for

value beyond the exclusive on-ground and in-flight service

when you fly Oman Air Business Class. That is why, starting

1 January 2007 and for one year, Sindbad members will earn

Double Status Miles on every Business Class flight they take.

The “Sindbad” programme now gives generous 2000 Sindbad

‘Web-booking’ Bonus Miles for one-way travel on Business

Class to New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Thiruvanthapuram,

and Kochi, and 1000 Sindbad ‘Web-booking‘ Bonus Miles to all

Middle Eastern destinations.

Log on and book your business class tickets online at

www.omanair.aero

With

Sindbad More miles and smiles in 2007

Oman Air gives its valued customers the opportunity to take

off on a trip of a lifetime by flying out from Muscat to Mumbai.

Then, embark on a spectacular two-night cruise along the

Arabian Sea coast to Goa aboard the luxurious SuperStar Libra.

Experience all the deluxe trappings onboard this exclusive

floating resort on the high seas. Enjoy world-class entertainment,

recreation, hospitality, and a variety of dining options.

Oman Air Holidays also provides you the chance to spend a

starry-eyed evening on terra firma in India’s most happening

city. Go shopping for designer labels or a bargain souvenir, taste

the exquisite culinary delights on every street corner, visit the

numerous historic spots, explore the city’s myriad nightspots, or

take a long, romantic stroll along the seashore.

Begin it all with a specially warm and friendly welcome aboard

Oman Air.

12

IN TIME WARP: The famous Petra Complex

Cover Story

13

If ever there is a land that has yoked stunning history with equally stunning landscapes and drawn them forward with a sprightly march of modernity, then it is Jordan.

One of the most welcoming, hospitable countries in the world, Jordan offers visitors a mind-boggling choice of experiences through its myriad historical, religious and natural sites.

The country is full of natural wonders and rich historical and Biblical sites and can essentially be termed as a bridge between sea and desert, east and west, ancient and new civilisations.

With mountains running into valleys, and plains to deserts, with limestone and sandstone fusing together in unforgettable displays of shape and colour, Jordan has some of the region’s most exciting and accessible spots for a variety of natural adventures and exploration.

A Land of Charm and

Histor y

SENTINEL: A heritage site

14

In a beautiful study of beauty

and contrasts, the Hashemite

Kingdom of Jordan beckons

you. It could be the fertile and

ever changing Jordan Valley

or the remote desert canyons

interspersed with splendid

castles, haunting wilderness and

monuments spawning every age

of humanity.

Besides its natural, historical

and Biblical treasures, the country

offers its visitors the experience of

true Jordanian hospitality. Jordan

sightseeing can be divided into

three phases. The first of course is

Amman, the capital city itself; the

second would be places in and

around Amman; and the third and

most exciting is a journey on the

King’s Highway, the world’s oldest

and most continuously used

communication route.

AMMANJordan’s capital Amman is

known in history as Rabbath-

Ammon and came to be known as

Philadelphia in Greco-Roman times.

Amman is a city built on seven

hills, or jabals. Most of Amman’s

noteworthy historical sites are

clustered in the downtown area,

which sits at the bottom of four of

Amman’s seven hills. The ancient

Citadel, which towers above

the city from atop Jabal

al-Qala’a, is a good place to begin

a tour of the city.

Downhill from the Citadel,

the Roman Theatre is the most

impressive relic of ancient

Amman.

The theatre, which was built

during the reign of Antonius

Pius (138-161 CE), is cut into the

northern side of a hill and can

accommodate 6000 spectators.

Two small museums are built

into the foundations of the

Roman theatre. The Jordan Folklore

Museum is in the right wing of the

theatre and displays a collection

of items showing the traditional

life of local people.

At the other end of the theatre

stage, the Museum of Popular

Traditions displays traditional

Jordanian costumes, including

fine embroidery and beautiful

antique jewellery.

At the heart of modern

downtown Amman is the King

Hussein Mosque. The area

around the mosque bustles with

pedestrians, juice stands and

vendors. Between the Mosque

and the Citadel is Amman’s

famous gold souq.

AROUND AMMANAlthough most of the tourist

places are located no more than

five hours drive from Amman,

there are some places around the

capital city of Amman which can

be covered in a day trip.

Jabal al-Qala’a, is a good place to begin a tour of the city

SCENIC: A soothing view

Some of the notable places are

Salt, The Shaumari and Mujib nature

reserves, Jerash, Umm al-Jimal, Jordan

Valley, desert castles, and Dead Sea.

SALT: This ancient town was

once the capital of Jordan during

the Turkish rule. Due to its history as

an Ottoman centre of government,

Salt is filled with wonderful Ottoman

architecture in the classical style. A

morning or evening spent strolling

through the picturesque streets of this

charming hill village is a time that will

long remain etched in your memory.

THE MUJIB RESERVE: One of

Jordan’s most spectacular sights is Wadi

Mujib Reserve, which, at over 1000 metres

below sea level, is the lowest nature

reserve in the world. It offers safe havens

for rare species of cats, goats and other

mountain animals.

JERASH: This is one of the largest

and best preserved sites of Roman

architecture in the world outside Italy. To

this day, its colonnaded streets, baths,

theatres, plazas and arches remain in

excellent condition. Visitors to Jerash in

late July or early August can enjoy the

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, an

exciting celebration of both Jordanian

and international culture.

LOT’S REFUGE: One of Jordan’s

most exciting archaeological discoveries

of recent times, is the cave where Lot

and his family sought refuge from the

devastation of Sodom and Gomorrah.

DEAD SEA: Jordan is also famed

for having the lowest spot on earth, the

Dead Sea, which allows nothing to live

in its waters. This is due to an extremely

high content of salt.

The high density of the water makes

sinking virtually impossible. You can

even recline in the water and read a

newspaper.

TIME TRAVEL: The most interesting

route is the King’s Highway which

takes you south of Amman, twisting

and winding its way through the heart

of Jordan. Along this 5,000 year old

highway are a string of Biblical, historical

and UNESCO heritage sites, making you

feel that you are travelling back in time.

The first city you come upon is

Madaba, the city of Mosaics. To the

west of Madaba is Mount Nebo, the

most revered site in Jordan. This is

the memorial site of Moses at the

presumed site of the prophet’s death

and burial place. A small square church

was built on the spot by early Byzantine

Christians and later expanded into a vast

complex.

16

VIBRANT: Colourful handicraft items

18

UMM AR-RASAS: This place finds

mention in the Old and New Testaments

of the Bible. But the main attraction

though is the Church of St. Stephen with

its perfectly preserved mosaic floors. It

contains the images of 15 major cities

of the Holy Land both from the east and

west of the Jordan River.

CRUSADER’S CASTLES: The

castles of Karak and Shobak, both

along the scenic King’s Highway, are

a must see for those fascinated by the

Crusader’s legends and lores.

PETRA: Hidden among the

mountains south of the Dead Sea, is

the most famous of all the attractions

in Jordan, the soul stirring city of Petra.

This 2000-year-old city, carved from rose-

coloured stone, was lost to the world for

over 1000 years, but was rediscovered in

1812 AD.

There is also an 8000-seat

Amphitheatre, cut out of the rock. After

the Amphitheatre, the gorge widens

out and you soon come to the main city

area, which covers about three square

kilometres.

AQABA: The furthest point down

south is Aqaba, Jordan’s year-round

aquatic playground, with its soothing

winter climate and spectacular Red Sea

setting of purple coloured mountains

and sandy beaches.

In winter, while Amman shivers

around 5oC, the temperature hovers

steadily at about 25oC in Aqaba and is

one of the most rewarding spots in the

world for scuba diving, snorkelling and

underwater photography.

WADI RUM: Further south is Wadi

Rum, acclaimed by many as one of the

most stunning deserts in the world.

The vast silence and grandeur of the

landscape is best experienced on foot.

All you need for hiking in Wadi Rum is

plenty of water, some food, good shoes

and a sleeping bag.

Wadi Rum is probably best known

internationally because of its connection

with the famous British officer

T.E. Lawrence, who was based here

during 1917-18. Much of the epic film

‘Lawrence of Arabia’ was shot in Wadi

Rum.

Cuisine & shoppingEating heartily is a Jordanian

tradition, and there are many fine

restaurants that offer a sumptuous

selection of authentic Jordanian

cuisine at reasonable prices.

Gold and silver shops are located

in the downtown gold souq and

bordering on King Faisal Street. Jordan

has a rich legacy of ancient handicrafts

which include beautiful handmade

glass, handy earthenware vessels,

skillful basket and carpet weaving,

and exquisite embroidery.

The best attractionIndulge yourself in the friendship

of the Jordanians and indeed, the

greatest charm of Jordan is found in the

friendliness of its people. Whether you

are sightseeing, shopping, dining or just

relaxing, whether you are in the desert of

Wadi Rum, or on the shores of the Dead

Sea, or at a reception atop a medieval

castle overlooking the Jordan Valley, the

smiling people of Jordan will contribute

most to the pleasant memories of your

visit to this charming country.

• Abu Dhabi: +971 2 6266800 • Al Ain: +971 3 7669943 • Amman: +9626 5 626644 • Bahrain: +973 17 225383 / 225282 • Beirut: +961 1 485076/ 511786 • Cairo: +202 5759797 / 5789393 • Chennai: +91 44 52147676 • Dammam: +966 3 8961412 • Delhi: +91 11 2332 4097 / 2332 4087 • Doha: +974 4424579 / 4320509 • Dubai: +971 4 3521777 • Hyderabad: +91 40 23245500 • Jeddah: +966 2 6456893 • Khasab: +968 26731592 • Kochi: +91 484 2358185 • Kuwait: +965 2412284 / 2452796, Ext.103/104/105 • Mumbai: +91 22 22819180 • Muscat: +968 24765129 • Salalah: +968 23292777 • Sharjah: +971 6 5748212 • Thiruvananthapuram: +91 471 2728127 / 2728137

BYGONE: An amphitheatre of yore

20

Oman

IMPOSING: Roundabouts add colour to the dull and dry roads

RoundaboutsOman’s

21

If art can be defined in utilitarian terms, then Oman’s roundabouts will walk

away with the cake. Among the many and wonderful peculiarities found in the

Sultanate of Oman are the roundabouts, essentially meant to control traffic at

intersections and junctions sans traffic lights.

These roundabouts, found mostly in and around urban and suburban

road intersections, have transformed a monotonous driving routine into a

pleasurable experience and in the process also sidestepping the jarring notes

of signal lights.

Most cities in Oman boast of an excellent network of roads which make

driving, one long smooth ride. Enhancing this mood out on the roads are the

elaborately done traffic roundabouts which give a refreshing break to the eye.

The roundabouts could effortlessly qualify as works of art when you closely

examine the work that has been put into most of them. The concept of most,

if not all, roundabouts seems to suggest a distinct relation with the culture of

Oman – laidback but warm, ubiquitous but unique.

Merging old with newThe structure and construction of the roundabouts also align themselves

with the overall character of the town and cities of Oman overcoming you

with a sense of time-freeze, a silent but steely blend of heritage, history with

modernity.

A drive around the main highways and arteries of Muscat and its surroundings

will put things in perspective. The roads lined up with trees and greenery are

interspersed by roundabouts which inevitably slow you down as if asking you to

soak in the beauty of the marvellous work of art, known as the roundabout.

While the sylvan settings lull you into a false sense of a tropical paradise

removed far away from the sand and desert, the roundabouts themselves

transport you into contemplation over the meaning of the decorative

settings found in them.

The roundabouts could effortlessly qualify as works of art when you closely examine the work that has been put into most of them

THE FRANKINCENSE ROUNDABOUT: At Al Wadi Al Kabir

22

GLOBE ROUNDABOUT: Main junction of Sohar City

Ranging from an oversized Omani coffeepot to a giant

traditional incense burner and as varied as clock towers and

domes, the artistic bent of mind is in regal flow at these

roundabouts.

Preserving historyIf one were to delve deep into the making of a roundabout,

then many reams of pages would be insufficient as each

one of them has a tale of its own.

Consider the roundabout just before you take right to go

to the Al Bustan Palace Hotel. Smack in the middle of this

roundabout is a weather-beaten dhow, a one time symbol

of Oman’s economic and sea faring supremacy.

A very common one, would be your comment, after closer

examination, until you are told that this very same dhow was

used to recreate and retrace the journey of Oman’s iconic

seaman, the legendary Sindbad the Sailor.

Marine historians and Omani shipbuilders came together

to construct the exact replica of a dhow, presumably used by

Sindbad the Sailor in his journey of the seven seas.

This dhow then set sail, following the trail of Sindbad, and

charted its way across the Indian Ocean, China and other

countries and successfully completed an eventful journey.

As a historical and monumental piece of work, the dhow

was then installed at the present location to be preserved for

posterity. A fitting resting place because it is surrounded by

rugged mountains on three sides and the sea on the fourth

side, aptly indicating the rough and hardy life of the ancient

Omani sailors.

24

A slice of lifeAt the roundabouts you can also see that an attempt is being

made to present a compressed slice of life from different parts

of Oman. Sometimes even a piece of history has been brought

to life at a roundabout.

Take for example, the Al Sahwa Tower roundabout, commonly

known as Rusayl roundabout, which is just next to the airport

and can be reached if you exit right from Seeb International

Airport roundabout.

Al Sahwa Tower roundabout falls in the Seeb wilayat. This

roundabout has bas reliefs, symbolic of the country’s past

heritage and modern renaissance depicting history under

successive Sultans of Oman.

The attention to detail at each roundabout is amazing.

Beginning with the tarmac of the road which has small round

white embedded protrusions indicating the boundary for the

motorists, the well laid out gently sloping grassy knoll and the

flower beds serve like foreplay to gaze up and revel at the

masterpiece which adorns the centre of the roundabout.

LandmarksAll motorists in Oman will swear on a roundabout because

their life is almost inevitably centred around it.

The roundabouts serve as important landmarks for any address

in town.

If you ask someone for an address, then the first thing you will

hear is the name of a particular roundabout. People will know the

exact number of roundabouts more than they know a place.

While travelling by taxi or public transport, the quickest way

to reach a destination is by telling the driver about the nearest

roundabout to your place.

Aside from serving as a landmark, roundabouts are also centres

of economic activity. The taxi driver will be waiting for customers

here. Or you may have some good restaurants or coffee shops

nearby and even one or two neighbourhood grocery stores too,

depending upon the ‘busy’ness of the roundabout.

On the flip side, the roundabouts are being swallowed up by

flyovers being built to accommodate the burgeoning traffic.

Most roundabouts in Muscat city have now been pierced by

the big fat pillars of flyovers and the trend is extending to outside

the city limits. But while old roundabouts are losing out to the

development juggernaut, new roundabouts are coming up as

fresh and beautiful as the springtime flowers.

Take a long drive if you want a whiff.

The roundabouts serve as important landmarks for any address in town

AL BUSTAN ROUNDABOUT: Retracing Sindbad's voyage

ReclaimingFew musical connoisseurs would know that the Guitar, among the most

mellifluous of western musical instruments, traces its musical origins to Oud,

an Arabic musical instrument.

It was the oud, which is also the predecessor and ancestor of the western

lute, which has paved the way for tonality in modern music.

Oud, unlike many other stringed instruments, allows the player to be

more expressive by using slides and vibrato. Music played on oud stirs up

the deepest emotions in the listeners.

lost musical legacy

Culture

26

CREATING MUSIC: Deft fingers working on an oud

28

Such an awesome musical instrument has become one of the

main instruments played by the Arabic musicians and has been

deeply ingrained in the Arabian music and culture, which has

developed over hundreds of years right up until today.

The oud is a pear-shaped,

stringed instrument, still used

in traditional Middle Eastern

music and East African music.

In the Arabian countries, this

traditional stringed instrument has

evolved into a harmonious masterpiece, with a vaulted

back design made from flexible pieces of wood.

The Arabian oud is somewhat larger as compared to other

ouds (like Turkish, slightly smaller in size, slightly shorter neck,

higher in pitch, brighter timbre) and heavier with a deeper tone

and lower pitch.

According to Farabi, the oud was invented by Lamak, the sixth

grandson of Adam.

The oud quickly spread to become a prized instrument across

the entire Arabic-speaking world. The first known pictorial record

of one such instrument is on a 5,000-year old seal currently

housed in the British Museum of London.

Even today in the Arab world the oud plays an outstanding

role in the traditional education of young Arabic musicians:

Playing and singing, rhythms, music theory and melodic modes

are taught on this instrument.

The Sultanate of Oman has a constant and dedicated focus

to care for and preserve classical music and Arabian culture.

It’s important to know that Oman has won the United Nations

Award in 2002 for preserving and caring for Classical Music.

In this context, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has

granted the order of Sultan Qaboos for Culture, Sciences and

Arts (first class) to Dr Essam El

Malah, general coordinator of

the first Muscat Arab Oud

Festival held in 2005.

The same order was

also granted to Ammar

Al Sharai from Egypt who

is regarded as perhaps

one of the world’s most

formidable oud composers

and performers.

Traditional music from instruments like oud marks some of

the stages in the life of an Omani, including birth, circumcision,

marriage, etc.

Oud has become an intrinsic part of any Omani cultural

programme. It is also used in vocal genres like as-sot and is

also a part of the bara of Dhofar.

Bringing alive traditions that were almost drowned in the

louder sounds of modern music, the International Oud Forum

held in December 2006 in Muscat made an effort to reclaim

the lost legacy of this singular instrument.

Internationally acclaimed musicians from Oman, Kuwait,

Bahrain, Iraq, Egypt, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iran, Turkey,

Greece, France and Spain successfully showcased the rich

legacy of oud, bringing out the soothing sweetness of the

oud’s sound through their seasoned fingers.

The Sultanate of Oman has a constant and dedicated focus to care for and preserve classical music and Arabian culture

ARABESQUE: Different types of ouds

30

Reading a book should be an educational experience

with lots of fun.

Get your child to read, and give him access to a different

dimension in life and see the changes it brings about in

shaping your child.

Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Thomas Alva Edison

and Winston Churchill were all underachievers who bloomed

later after they cultivated the reading habit. In this age of

computers and TV, your child could be missing out on a world

of experience. You may find that he does not read as many

books as children used to a decade ago.

Books open up a world of fantasy, interaction, knowledge

and creativity, weaving diversity into the fabric of children’s

everyday lives. It is interesting to note that the process of

reading, which involves an understanding of stories, print,

and how books work, begins as early as in the first year of life.

It’s the initiation your child has been given that determines

how much he enjoys it. There are so many activities one can

do to encourage children to read. Parents should ensure that

their children read, write, spell and pronounce words correctly.

Here are some ways you can make reading fun for your child

and you:

When out on a drive, read aloud billboards, road signs and

other interesting signs. Play a game of “I Spy” to find letters

on a licence plate. This can even turn out to be fun when

on a school trip. If you cook with your child, read aloud the

ingredients, measurements, and steps in the recipe book as

you cook.

Books open up a world of fantasy, interaction, knowledge, creativity and diversity

General

Give your childrena book

It is interesting to note that the process of reading, which involves an understanding of stories, print, and how books work, begins as early as in the first year of life

BOOK WORLD: Any time is a good time to buy books

Give your childrena book

31

This initiates them into reading and following instructions

in a systematic manner.

Cut short TV watching time and read a tale of adventure

instead. Reading helps build her/his imagination.

The next time you set out on a trip or a picnic, don’t forget

to carry a book along with the basket of goodies. A book can

even be a good way to spend time if you have to wait for

long at some place or on a rainy day.

If you are too tired to read aloud, sit with your child and

listen to a story on the tape. Turning pages to follow the

story can be great fun.

Surprise your child by bringing home an interesting comic

strip from the local newspaper or a new word on a greeting

card.

Make this a ritual your child looks forward to. Introduce

your child to the local or school library or encourage him to

join you when you visit the library. You can also subscribe

to children’s magazines or newspapers and encourage him

to contribute. Seeing their work in print can boost their

confidence.

Spending just a few minutes each day reading together

can go a long way in building up the skill and interest for

the printed word.

The earlier you start your reading programme, the better.

The best place to start is home. Children love to mimic

adults.

They watch us constantly. If as a parent you read, you will

find that sooner or later, your child will pick up a book too.

WIDEN HORIZON: Reading enhances kids' knowledge

Spending just a few minutes each day reading together can go a long way in building up the skill and interest for the printed word

32

The ECG is an indispensable tool but there are many wrong ideas about its use.

ECG: myths and facts

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is an electrical recording of the heart and is used in the

investigation of heart disease. Millions of people undergo the electrocardiogram (ECG)

and the procedure has saved lives of innumerable patients by showing a serious condition

like heart attack with a fair degree of accuracy. It is almost synonymous with a lifeline, as

death is diagnosed when the ECG recording shows no activity or a straight line. Despite

the progress made in cardiac investigation and development of sophisticated gadgets in

cardiology, the ECG remains absolutely invaluable and unavoidable in cardiac assessment.

EFFECTIVE: Technology helps to make your day, your life

Health & Fitness

34

Misconceptions However there are many wrong ideas, misconceptions and

myths about the use and interpretation of ECG. These create a lot

of problems for both doctors and patients. The problem has been

compounded by the modern computerised machines, which

give reports instantly typed on the ECG itself. Unfortunately,

these reports are either wrong or misleading in some of the

cases. This is because of the several parameters that influence

the ECG - age, gender, race, clinical condition, blood electrolyte

levels, not to speak of the other factors that frequently occur in

the recordings.

These parameters are not given as inputs into the computer

nor are reporting programmes perfect enough to take into

consideration the many variable parameters that influence the

ECG.

However, in clinical cardiology ECG is absolutely indispensable

and very valuable because in certain conditions like arrhythmia,

bundle branch block, heart block, certain types of ischaemic

heart disease or infarction the abnormalities if seen are almost

diagnostic. Nonetheless a normal ECG does not rule out disease

or abnormalities in the heart.

Myth: If ECG is normal the heart is normal.

Fact: Nothing could be more wrong. ECG could be normal in

the presence of serious heart disease and vice versa.

Myth: ECG is superior to clinical examination and assessment

by the doctor.

Fact: ECG is only complementary or supportive to the doctor's

clinical diagnosis.

Myth: Echocardiogram has replaced the value and use of

ECG.

Fact: Not at all. ECG gives information about the electrical

activity of the heart whereas the echocardiogram gives information

about the structural or anatomical aspects of the heart.

Myth: In serious heart diseases ECG must show abnormality.

Fact: Not so. In the presence of some serious heart disease

ECG could still be normal.

Myth: If the ECG is abnormal the person must be having

some heart disease.

Fact: Not so always. There are many non-specific, normal

variations in the ECG waves and segments, which are neither

diagnostic nor indicative of any abnormal condition.

Myth: ECG can indicate heart failure or heart attack.

Fact: Neither. Heart failure is a failure of satisfactory

contraction of the muscles of the heart in relation to demand,

which is not reflected in the ECG. In 50 per cent of heart attacks

also the ECG may be normal in the beginning for some time

or in some unusual locations of the areas of the heart attack

(Myocardial Infarction).

Myth: ECG diagnosis is purely objective and therefore there

is no interpersonal variation in its interpretation.

Fact: Not correct. Proper interpretation of the ECG depends

on the skill, training and experience of the interpreter as well as

the correlation with the clinical diagnosis as some abnormalities

in the ECG could be present in both normal variations and

abnormal conditions of the heart. ECG is to be always correlated

with the clinical diagnosis and be interpreted by an experienced

physician.

It is therefore important to appreciate the myths and facts

about this simple, common and totally indispensable tool in

cardiac investigation.

LIFE REPORT: Your health card

ECG: Helps patients to monitor health

The ECG is an indispensable tool but there are many wrong ideas about its use

Make meetings effective

Business Traveller

A meeting is only effective when it achieves its objectives in minimum time to

the satisfaction of the participants. Meetings can be boring and a waste of time;

they can also be productive and satisfying.

How can meetings be made interesting and effective? It is widely believed that

ninety per cent of an effective meeting happens before it takes place, through

proper planning and agenda. A successful meeting depends on how much and

how well everybody participates, not on how long it lasts. Writes Robert Burns

in Making Meetings Happen: “A meeting is never the most efficient way to

disseminate information or collect it; but it is a good means of evaluating it.”

He adds, “Also, remember that groups are not good at analyzing problems that

need expert knowledge and reasoning.”

LACE IT UP: Spice up your gathering with some humour

36

A meeting fails because it was unnecessary in the first

place; it was held for the wrong reason; it had an unclear

objective; the wrong people attended it; it was timed poorly;

and so on.

This genre of meetings does nothing for the employee

morale and productivity. Such meetings take care of the

issues on the agenda but the results do not percolate beyond

the immediate present.

A well-steered meeting on the other hand ensures that a lot

of vital communication happens. New ideas are generated,

decisions and consensus are reached and work gets done

efficiently. To keep meetings from straying from their original

purpose, here are a few handy tips.

Do not call for a meeting unless it is absolutely necessary.

Use e-mail, telephone, and one-to-one communication

instead.

Create the agenda in advance. Having a list of all the issues

that need to be discussed will keep you on track and in

control.

Set a time frame for the meeting before you start. This will

keep you from extending it.

At the outset, give a brief introduction stating the purpose

and goal of the meeting.

Do not repeat yourself, but be clear and concise. Avoid long

monologues, or boring speeches. Make sure that you get the

message across and leave nothing for later.

Have somebody take down the minutes of the meeting.

This is good both for the records and for accountability.

Ask people to volunteer before assigning tasks to them.

While doing this keep their areas of interest in mind. Do not

leave any job or issue without an owner.

Solicit feedback. Answer all questions and concerns to the

best of your abilities.

Summarise the actionable points before you conclude.

Reiterate decisions that have been taken and list jobs that

require immediate follow-up.

Use structured activities in your meetings. These process

tools keep you in control while you ensure equitable

participation and systematic progress towards results.

While convening a meeting, exhibiting an organised

presence will help in establishing your credibility. You will also

save others and yourself a lot of trouble if you keep meetings

short and effective. An effective meeting can ensure that your

project starts on the right note, and possible problem areas

are detected and tackled during the initial stages itself.

BRAINSTORMING: Meeting of many minds

Also remember that groups are not good at analyzing problems that need expert knowledge and reasoning

A meeting is never the most efficient way to disseminate information or collect it; but it is a good means of evaluating it

37

Abu Dhabi, the splendid town in the UAE had been the

venue for the most enjoyable football tournament, narrating

the Gulf’s passion for the 18th Gulf Cup which soared by the

participation of eight football teams representing the Gulf

countries. This unique assembly has woven the emblem of

the Gulf unity ensuring the superiority of its message.

For the first time in its football history, UAE topped the

teams when they defeated the Omani national team 1-0 in

the final match through a solitary goal scored by the UAE star

Ismail Matter.

The tournament witnessed the most exciting matches and

honourable competition amongst the teams to gain winning

points. The tournament started vigorously when the Omani

national team won the first match against the host nation

- UAE which was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, the

president of UAE. As usual, the Gulf tournament adhered to

all technical aspects and all teams were keen to win the Cup.

This motivated them to do their utmost, right from training

sessions and fascinating spectators with their most advanced

soccer skills.

The 18th Gulf Cup was unique and accompanied by

many thrilling and attention grabbing episodes. Thousands

of ardent fans packed the UAE stadiums hours before the

referee’s whistle to kick-off the matches, thereby assuring

their full support to the Gulf footballers.

Sports

38

The 18th Gulf Cup - a Gulf assembly and honourable competition

OMAN NATIONAL TEAM: A performance to be proud of

In the 18th Gulf Cup tournament, some of the admirers

adopted new methods to express their delight such as

colouring their faces with their own flag colours, in addition

to the creative rivalry to adopt more attractive methods. In

addition, the tournament was characterized by eminent

media coverage which facilitated bringing the occasion

to light, in-depth analysis with a focus on some passionate

and electrifying topics having special flavour in the Gulf Cup

tournament.

Being the first to top its group against UAE, Kuwait and Yemen

achieving nine lovely points in the history of the tournament,

the Omani national team continued its distinguished

performances in the second stage, encountering and beating

Bahrain 1-0 in the semifinal, leading towards the final for

the second time in the Gulf Cup. In their quest towards the

semifinals, the Omani team was accompanied by UAE, Saudi

Arabia and Bahrain.

As usual, since its inception in Bahrain, the 18th Gulf Cup

introduced new players, giving them the opportunity to

demonstrate their capabilities with their first steps firmly

engraved and matching international soccer professionalism.

In Abu Dhabi, the agents of different clubs were exploring the

possibility to acquire deals and gain professional players who

proved their mettle such as the star of our national team Yaqub

Saleem who joined the Al Wakra Club in Qatar, the Kuwaiti

player, Fahad Al Rashidi whose services were requested by Al

Sad Club in Qatar and the Bahraini player

Mahmoud Jalal who joined the Qatar

Club.

As the curtain has been lowered

on the 18th Gulf Cup competition, it

has attained the anticipated success and

goal, i.e. to create a sporty generation

who will admirably compete to be the

heroes of the 19th Gulf Cup. It will be hosted

by Muscat who will welcome the Gulf people

to their second nation Oman.

• The first victory in the tournament was achieved by the Omani national team against the UAE team in the opening match 2-1

• The Omani player Fawzi Bahsir scored the first goal against the UAE team

• The only goal scoring winning performance by the UAE player Ismail Matter against the Omani team in the finals enabled him to be the best player and the top goal scorer of the tournament

• The Omani player Hashim Saleh scored the best goal in the tournament against the Kuwaiti team

• The fastest goal of the tournament was scored by the Omani player Sultan Al Toqi against Yemen in the 35th second of the match

• The loyal Omani team goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi achieved the title of the Best Goalkeeper for the 3rd consecutive time in the tournament

Highlights of the 18th Gulf Cup

39

The tournament witnessed the most exciting matches and honourable competition amongst the teams

CROWD PULLER: The tournament attracted ardent fans SPREADING CHEER: Enthusiastic Omani supporters singing and dancing

Picture courtesy: Sultan Salim Al Hasani

40

Fun Corner

Fa c t s• The words tariff, cotton and mattress are all derived

from Arabic

• The yo-yo originated in Philippines, where it was used as a weapon in hunting

• Sea otters have the world’s densest fur; a million hairs per square inch

• Plankton produce nearly three-quarters of the oxygen on the planet

• The average person makes about 1,140 telephone calls each year

• The brain is the second heaviest organ in the human after the liver

• The canopy of rainforest is so thick that only one per cent of sunlight reaches the ground

• The Earth travels 12 million miles per day

• The ostrich yolk is the largest single cell in the world

• There are 294 steps in the Leaning Tower of Pisa

• The teacher of the school geography class was

lecturing on map reading.

After explaining about latitude, longitude,

degrees and minutes the teacher asked:

”Suppose I asked you to meet me for lunch at 23

degrees, 4 minutes north latitude and 45 degrees,

15 minutes east longitude...?”

After a confused silence, little Johnny volunteered

“I guess you’d be eating alone!”

• A man said his credit card was stolen but he

decided not to report it because the thief was

spending less than his wife did.

Humour

Knowledge BankThe Ayers RockUluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in central Australia, in the Northern Territory. It is located in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, 440 kms southwest of Alice Springs.It is the single largest, natural millennia-old monolith on earth. Ten kms wide in diameter, standing 348 metres above land, it is a World Heritage Protected Site listed for both natural and cultural values. Uluru is sacred to the

Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. It has many springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. It is one of Australia’s best known natural wonders and tourist sites.Uluru is notable for appearing to change colour as the different light strikes it at different times of the day and year, with sunset a particularly remarkable sight. The rock is made of arkosic sandstone infused with minerals that reflect the red light of sunrise and sunset, making it appear to glow. The rock gets its rust colour from oxidation.

Kuwait - Hala FebruaryThe Hala February Festival is a month-long annual event that takes place in Kuwait during

the spring season. It is a time when parched

sands of the desert transform into a magical

green carpet covered with blossoming,

colourful flora. The arrival of migratory birds

and seasonal animals during this time add

further colour, elegance and beauty to the

desert.

Hong Kong Arts Festival:

27 February - 25 March

The Hong Kong Arts Festival - first held in

1973 - is the premier arts event of the year,

featuring dance, visual art, theatre and music.

Each spring a wealth of international artists, as

well as the best Asian and local performers,

make this one of the most vibrant and exciting

festivals in the world.

ICTIC, Tehran: March The International Conference on Tourism of Islamic Countries will be held in Tehran in March to discuss the current state of tourism in these countries and find ways for promoting it.

Qatar Total Open:

1 - 7 March

International Tennis Tournament for Women

organised by Qatar Tennis Federation.

ITB Berlin:

7 - 11 March

With 10,000 exhibitors from 180 countries and

regions, ITB represents the full spectrum of

global tourism at all levels of the value added

chain like tour operators, booking systems, travel

destinations, airlines, hotels and rental cars.

The European Fine Art Fair,

Netherlands (Maastricht):

9 - 18 March The European Fine Art Fair, or TEFAF Maastricht,

as it’s commonly known, is widely regarded

as the world’s leading art and antiques fair,

a reputation which has been earned through the quality and range of exhibits displayed by participating dealers.

Dubai World Cup:

31 MarchThe Dubai World Cup at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse is the richest horse race in the world.

Bahrain Grand Prix:

13 -15 April

The FIA Formula One World Championship is

the pinnacle of global motor racing.

International Events

41

MAJESTIC: The Ayers Rock

A holiday gift guide for those on the go

Rover TV Portable Recorder, www.rovertv.com

Can’t miss an episode of “Heroes”? You don’t have to. This small mobile

media player enables travellers to watch television anywhere, anytime.

Record to the device from television, DVD, digital video recorder or VCR

and take it with you on a train, plane or car. Rover TV can play up to six

hours of video and is available in two screen sizes.

Just because holiday travel sometimes can be a nightmare doesn’t mean that giving travel gifts has to be scary. There are so many books and bags and gadgets for travellers that it’s difficult to know where to start. We go into the merry madness to come up with just the right gift for any type of traveller on your list.

Philips 9-inch Digital Photo Frame www.sharperimage.com

No matter how far you travel, keep family and

friends close with a digital photo frame. Transfer

photos to the frame from a camera or computer.

The display holds 150 photos and includes a slide-

show feature. Comes with interchangeable frames

in several colours.

For the high-tech traveller

Timbuk2 Blogger, www.ebags.com More travellers are posting diaries, photos and videos of their vacations online for family and friends. This vertical shoulder bag with built-in laptop sleeve (up to 15 inches) keeps a computer handy for quick uploads to www. flickr.com or updates to your travel diary.

For the armchair traveller

The Amazing Race DVD Board Game, Pressman Toys www.amazon.com Watching the CBS reality show is

fantasy travel for many. Now you

can play the game and make the

fantasy come true - sort of. With host

Phil Keoghan providing guidance, the

interactive DVD features the fun and

adventure of the race, including detours,

roadblocks and pit stops.

For the teen traveller

Tech Capsule

For the business traveller

Bose QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, www.bose.com

Keep calm with these soundproof headphones.

They do a great job of reducing engine noise

that can intrude on travellers’ ability to rest or

relax during flight. The headphones fold flat for

easy packing.

For the nervous traveller

42

In a field one summer’s day a Grasshopper was hopping about, chirping and singing to its heart’s content. An Ant passed by, bearing along with great toil an ear of corn he was taking to the nest.

“Why not come and chat with me,” said the Grasshopper,

“instead of toiling in that way?”

“I am helping to lay up food for the winter,” said the Ant,

“and recommend you to do the same.”

“Why bother about winter?” said the Grasshopper; "We have got plenty of food at present.” But the Ant went on its way and continued its toil.

When the winter came the Grasshopper had no food and found itself dying of hunger, while it saw the ants

distributing every day corn and grain from the stores they had collected in the summer.

Then the Grasshopper knew:

It is best to prepare for the days of necessity.

The Ant and the The Ant and the GrasshopperGrasshopper

Kiddies' Corner

43

44

ECO-TOURISM/WILDLIFE With eco-tourism catching up fast all over the world, Oman has its own share. The Ras Al Hadd Turtle

Reserve is known for turtle nesting beaches while the Oryx is found in its natural habitat at the Haylat

Jaaluni. The Arabian Oryx Sanctuary was established in 1994 to help protect the oryx and to conserve

desert habitat and threatened species. The Al Saleel Park is a nature reserve located in the town of

Al Kamil wal-Wafi, in the interior of Oman, and was established to protect gazelles and plantations of

Samr and Ghaf trees (Acacia tortilis and Cineraria). Beaches like Qantab, Shatti Qurum, Azaiba, Shatti

Bahja and Sawadi beach offer quiet retreats.

HERITAGE

Forts: Oman’s strikingly beautiful landscape is punctuated with several impressive forts, castles and

watch towers. Dotted throughout Oman, these edifices add a picturesque element to the country’s

landscape.

Aflaj: It is the splendidly-engineered aflaj, the system of underground and surface canals, that have

watered the country’s agriculture for millennia, which will astound visitors. These aflaj still course like

arteries beneath the hills and plains of Oman, twisting along precipitous cliffs and threading villages and

date-palm groves, bringing to the parched land water and coolness and life itself.

CULTURE The Omani culture has its roots firmly in the Islamic religion. Hospitality is legendary as any visitor to homes

is offered kahwa and dates. The bukhoor which perfumes the house is usually burned in a mabkhara,

traditional incense burner. It is traditional in Oman to pass bukhoor amongst the guests in the Majlis,

this is done as a gesture of hospitality. Oman is permeated with frankincense. Government buildings are

censed daily, even the elevators. The annual Muscat Festival, held during the early months of the year, is

OMAN BECKONS

We extend to you a warm welcome to Oman, a country where hospitality is legendary.

The Sultanate of Oman is located on the south-eastern shores of Arabia and covers 309,500 sq. kms. Flanked to the north-west by the

United Arab Emirates, to the West by Saudi Arabia, and to the south-west by the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen, Oman is

divided into 9 administrative regions: Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Al Sharqiyah, Al Dhahirah, Musandam, Dhofar and

Al Buraimi. Mythical home of Sindbad the Sailor and dubbed as Gulf’s favourite getaway, Oman delights with its blend of modern

elegance and historic charm of a sea-faring nation. A nation of warm people, Oman is emerging as a favourite haunt for tourists.

Welcome to Oman

a celebration of the cultural heritage of Oman. Another period of festivity is the 'Khareef Festival' in Salalah,

starting from the mid of July till the end of August. The National Day, celebrated on November 18, is also a

day to rejoice.

VISAS

Single entry visa - Valid for one month. It can be obtained on arrival at all land, sea and air terminals and at

Oman diplomatic missions abroad. Fee is OR 6.

Multiple entry visa - Valid for one year. It can be had on arrival at all land, sea and air terminals and also at

Oman diplomatic missions abroad. Fee is OR 10. This type of visa allows its holder to stay in Oman for 3 weeks

in each visit during the validity period of the visa. A minimum of 3 weeks must elapse between each visit.

Oman - at a glance

CAPITAL: Muscat

AREA: 309,500 sq. kms

TIME: GMT +4 hours

LANGUAGE: Arabic is the official language. English is widely

spoken.

CURRENCY: OR = Omani Rial

Exchange rate: One US Dollar = 0.384 OR

VISAS: Single entry visit visa, Multiple entry visa, Express visa

ELECTRICITY: 220/380 volts

HOURS OF WORK/BUSINESS: Government departments

are open from 0730 – 1430 hrs and closed on Thursdays and

Fridays.

Private sector offices are open 0800 – 1300 and from 1600 –

1900 (except on Thursdays, till 1400 hrs), closed on Fridays.

CLIMATE: The hottest months are May through August. The

summer monsoon just touches the southern coast of Dhofar

during these months bringing regular light rain to Salalah and

reducing the average daytime highs to 30°C.

The most pleasant months to visit Oman are mid October

through March when daytime temperatures fall into the lower

30s and below.

AIRPORT: Seeb International Airport is the main airport. Salalah

also has an international airport. There are domestic airports at

Sur, Masirah Island and Khasab (Musandum).

INFORMATIONMinistry of Tourism: P. O. Box 200, Postal Code 115, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Tel: +968 24588700Fax: +968 24588819 www.omantourism.gov.ominfo@omantourism.gov.om

45

Express visa – It is issued on the same day through the DG of Passports and Residency and at diplomatic

missions abroad. Fee is OR 7. Validity is two weeks.

LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT

Shopping: Oman is a great place for shopping as it blends the new and the old. The snazziest shopping

malls stand alongside the wonderfully quaint traditional markets like the Muttrah souk, Nizwa souk,

Hala souk in Salalah and Sinaw souk. Malls include Markaz Al Bahja, Al Araimi Complex, Sabco Centre,

Khamis Plaza, Al Harthy Complex, Capital Commercial Centre, LuLu Hypermarket, Centrepoint, Muscat

City Centre, among others.

Hotels: Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Hotel, The Chedi, Muscat InterContinental Hotel, The Grand

Hyatt, Sohar Beach Hotel, Al Sawadi Beach Resort, Radisson SAS, Al Falaj Hotel, Ramada Hotel, Hilton

Hotel - Salalah, The Crowne Plaza, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa and Golden Tulip Hotel, Sheraton

Oman Hotel, Sheraton Qurm Resort.

Museums: Bait Al Zubair, Natural History Museum, Oman French Museum, Sultan’s Armed Forces

Museum, Children’s Museum, Bait Al Baranda, Bait Al Muzna Gallery.

Dive Centres: Oman Dive Centre, Bluzone Water Sports, Capital Yacht Club, Marina Bander Al Rowda.

Cinemas: Al Nasr Cinema, Ruwi Cinema, Star Cinema, Al Shatti Cinema, Al Bahja Cinema, Al Wafi Plaza (Sur).

46

SAFETY REGULATIONSHAND BAGGAGE:

To ensure comfort to all the passengers, hand baggage in the cabin is limited

to bags smaller than 24 cm x 41 cm x 51 cm. These must be stored either in the

overhead baggage lockers or under the seat in front of you. Please do not leave

any baggage in the aisle, galley or in a way that obstructs the emergency exits.

Doing so could cause inconvenience and impede evacuation in an emergency.

SAFETY ON BOARD:

Your safety is our prime concern. You can find a safety card in the seat pocket in

front of you. This card gives you the details of the safety features of the aircraft.

Kindly study it carefully, note the emergency exits and pay close attention to the

crew’s demonstration of the emegency drill. When the captain turns on the “Fasten

seatbelts” sign due to any emergency or bad weather, please return to your seat

immediately and fasten your seatbelt. For your own safety, we also recommend

keeping your seatbelt loosely fastened when seated during the flight.

ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT:

Portable electronic items such as personal computers and handheld games may

not be used during take-off and landings as they could interfere with the aircraft’s

equipment. Pocket calculators, hearing aids and heart pacemakers are exempt.

Use of radios and mobile phones are prohibited on board at all times.

FACILITIES AVAILABLE ON BOARD IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT:

For your enjoyment we are pleased to provide

programmes in Arabic, English and Hindi; we

also show Tamil and Malayalam films in cetain

sectors. To listen to the programme you wish

to enjoy, just plug in the headset and press the

channel of your choice on the control unit.

READING AND WRITING MATERIAL:

A wide seletion of newspapers and magazines in English and Arabic, both national

and international, are available on board. Should you require aerogrammes or

stationery, our crew will make them available to you.

TO FRESHEN UP:

A seletion of deodorants, perfumes, soaps, tissues and towels are available in the

lavatories; also available are electric sockets for electric shavers. Toothbrushes,

toothpaste and combs are available on request.

FIRST AID: Should you require any medical attention due to any pain or

discomfort, please contact the cabin crew immediately. They are trained in first

aid procedures and emergency care. A first aid kit is available on board.

DUTY FREE SHOPPING:

A wide range of products are available on board in the

Duty Free Shopping facility; and you can find the details

of these in the accompanying literature. Please contact

the cabin crew if you wish to make any purchase.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS UNACCOMPANIED MINORS:

If your child aged between 7

and 12 is flying unaccompanied,

please inform us while making

the reservation. Our staff will

be assigned to take care of

your child’s requirements,

safeguarding their passport,

immigration and medical

cards.

PASSENGERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:

Our ground and cabin crew will be happy to assist passengers with special needs

in every way possible. Kindly inform us of the nature of your health condition

in advance while making the flight reservation to help us make the necessary

arrangements.

INFANTS ON BOARD:

We have a limited selection of baby food

on board, plus bottles, teats, talcum

powder and diapers. Should you have

special requirements for your child,

please inform us while making your

flight reservation and we will endeavour

to make arrangements. Our cabin staff

will be happy to warm your baby feeding bottles for you. Our aircraft are fitted

with baby bassinets which should be requested while making your reservation.

If you are carrying a child on your lap, please ask the cabin crew for a child’s seat

belt before take off.

Welcome aboard

Oman Air’s constant endeavour is to make your journey safe, comfortable and enjoyable. We provide below

the details of the amenities that are provided on board for your convenience. Should you require anything not

listed here, or have any queries, please contact our cabin crew. They will be delighted to be of assistance. If you

have any suggestions to improve our service, please convey them to our cabin crew.