<rss version="0.91">
<channel>
<title>www.bi-me.com RSS feed for &#8211; Business News</title>
<link>http://www.bi-me.com</link>
<description>Middle Eastern Business News and Data</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title><![CDATA[Emirates NBD Business Banking sponsors TECOM SME Builder]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45027</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Emirates NBD has announced today that it is serving as the key sponsor of TECOM SME Builder 2010, the ideal platform for professionals to upgrade entrepreneurial skills through networking.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Swiss posts black-ink results despite harsh headwinds]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45026</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Swiss International Air Lines  achieved an operating profit of US$439.5 million for 2009, despite the still-difficult economic environment that prevailed throughout the year. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Yacht industry transformed due to financial crisis ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45025</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Manufacturers must change how they sell yachts to survive in 2010 according to Gulf Craft COO. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[US$19.62 million superyacht  sells on first day of Dubai International Boat Show]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45024</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Companies at this year&#039;s Dubai International Boat Show are reporting good early sales, with one of the superyachts already sold on the first day of the show.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Asia-Pacific oil and gas professionals lead industry in workplace adoption of social media]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44975</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Findings reveal Europe, Middle East and Africa on board mostly for finding resources, the Americas value knowledge transfer capabilities. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Commercial vehicles operators urged to consider lifecycle costs up front to save money in long-term

]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44711</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Commercial vehicles operators that identify the full range of costs a vehicle incurs over its lifecycle can achieve significant savings in the long-term, an industry expert said today.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[MENA equity markets rebound 4.9% in February]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45012</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL.The top performer was the Kuwaiti Stock Exchange which gained 5.0%. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Fitch affirms National Bank of Abu Dhabi at &#039;AA-&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45003</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The affirmation of NBAD&#039;s IDRs and support Rating reflect the extremely high probability of support from the government of Abu Dhabi (&#039;AA&#039;/Stable Outlook/&#039;F1+&#039;).]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Kia Motors posts 39.5% increase in February global sales]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45023</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. In February, Kia posted double digit year-on-year sales increases all sales regions.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Oxford Business Group launches Oman report ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44945</link>
<description><![CDATA[OMAN. Oman&#039;s economic success story, which combines tapping new fields of business with positive, ongoing oil and gas exploration, is mapped out in a business guide just published by OBG. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[GCC market for construction chemicals has seen rapid development]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45013</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Value Engineered solutions targeting infrastructure and low income housing projects steer the GCC construction chemicals market forward, according to Frost &amp; Sullivan.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[BMW Group increases sales by 14% in February]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44713</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The figure for the year to the end of February was 173,911 units - 15.3% higher than the previous year 150,893.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai utility inks six new  electricity &amp; water contracts ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45020</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The new projects will enhance  DEWA&#039;s infrastructure and increase the efficiency of the networks helping the company to meet the growth in demand.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Schneider Electric to showcase expert energy solutions at MEED conference]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45021</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Schneider Electric is demonstrating its wide range of solutions to maximise energy efficiency in buildings at MEED&#039;s upcoming Building Sustainable Communities in Qatar conference. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qatar participates in the biggest tourism exhibition in Europe ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45017</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Qatar Tourism Authority showcases Qatar&#039;s MICE and leisure facilities in Berlin at the International Tourism Bourse from 10-4 March.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai Judicial Institute outlines Training Plan and initiatives for 2010
]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44762</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Plan to focus on improving judicial &amp; legal transparency &amp; innovation, creating databases and booklets and developing training programs based on international standards.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qtel delivers great roaming rates on all networks in UAE and Saudi Arabia]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44743</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. New agreements with Zain Saudi Arabia and du UAE makes SmartRoamer service even more accessible.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UAE follows-up cooperation with UK on small and medium enterprises]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44749</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. UAE Ministry of Economy, has emphasised the importance of adequate follow up through official meetings and business delegations to achieve the objectives of the UAE- UK joint economic committee meeting held in London.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Gulf Technical Construction Company awarded 2 contracts]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44846</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. GTCC Dubai, a subsidiary of Drake &amp; Scull Construction, has been awarded 2 contracts valued at US$131 million by DAMAC Properties in Dubai. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Outlook for oil and gas sector remains positive for 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45016</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Energy market sentiment remains relatively positive amid rising economic expectations, according to Ernst &amp; Young&#039;s Global Oil &amp; Gas Center. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Etisalat Chairman outlines new business models]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44991</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Etisalat&#039;s chairman addressed the Abu Dhabi Media Summit taking place at The Yas Hotel in the UAE capital and urged the industry to adopt new business models to maximize their reach across international boundaries.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East and Africa accounts for nearly 14% of global tea consumption ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44808</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. During the event, tea experts also examined effective ways of marketing tea and creating stronger brands, followed by a unique tea tasting session.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Manufacturers urged to prioritise safety and environment in recovery plans]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44812</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Sulayem marks opening of Commercial Vehicles Middle East with challenge to make new models as long lasting as predecessors.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[YouGov Siraj signs MOU with Jordanian research firm Analyseize]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45015</link>
<description><![CDATA[JORDAN. YouGovSiraj, Analyseize has announced their signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to provide services to better serve the Arab World.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai Financial Services Authority launches electronic Islamic finance handbooks ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45014</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The DFSA has launched a series of electronic Islamic finance tailored handbooks, designed to help firms undertaking Islamic finance activities in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[GCC region well positioned to be one of world&#039;s main aluminium producers 
]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44978</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. As the price of aluminium continues its quick recovery from the impact of the global crisis, with experts agreeing that the worst of the price slumps are over and producers beginning to dust off expansion plans.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Governments lead the way in GCC projects]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44996</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Heavy investment in infrastructure helping to reduce contraction in construction industry, say organisers of CityBuild Abu Dhabi.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Mourjan Marinas IGY signs Memorandum of Understanding with GREDCO]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45008</link>
<description><![CDATA[BAHRAIN. Mourjan Marinas IGY has announced its partnership with Global Real Estate Development Company for the development of two marinas as part of the upcoming Marsa Al Seef project Bahrain.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Emaar Industries &amp; Investments celebrates opening of new state-of-the-art plant by Dynergy Technologies ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45011</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Emaar Industries &amp; Investments celebrated the opening of a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant for low voltage and medium voltage switchboards of its subsidiary Dynergy Technologies in TechnoPark, Dubai. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Roya and Deloitte sign Memorandum of Understanding ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45010</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Roya International and Deloitte announced today the signing of a MoU that sees the two firms bringing together their expertise to provide Hotel Management Oversight services in the Middle East. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[GCC steel suppliers reinforce presence in the market]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45009</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Current steel prices pose major breaks for regional industry, says Danube.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Elaf Group targets to open new hotels in Saudi Arabia by 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45007</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. Elaf Group of Companies has pointed out that improving packages, services and products from key industry players are complementing the boom in domestic tourism in the country. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Barclays Wealth supports the spread of literacy in Arab World with EAIFL]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45006</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Barclays Wealth revealed today another step to support levels of literacy and knowledge in the Arab Word, its participation in the second annual Emirates Airlines International Festival for Literacy. 

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UAE economy to grow 3.2% in 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45005</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The UAE economy is expected to expand by 3.2% in 2010, in sharp contrast to an IMF forecast of 0.6% growth, Economy Minister Sultan al-Mansouri told a forum in Dubai.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[World&#039;s biggest privately owned boat arrives at The Dubai International Boat Show ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45004</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The &#039;Dubai&#039;, which is 531 feet and reportedly reaches speeds of up to 26 knots moored up within the Dubai International Boat Show for the first time, providing a spectacular backdrop to the event.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Fitch affirms Commercial Bank of Qatar at &#039;A&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=45001</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Fitch Ratings has affirmed the CBQ long-term IDR at &#039;A&#039;, short-term IDR at &#039;F1&#039;, individual rating at &#039;C&#039; and support rating at &#039;1&#039;. The Support Rating Floor is affirmed at &#039;A&#039;. Outlook is Stable.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Aldar brings Abu Dhabi&#039;s Yas Island to ITB Berlin]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44999</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Aldar to support the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority in showcasing the best of what Abu Dhabi has to offer. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[AREVA signs major contract with Spanish railway administrator]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44998</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. AREVA&#039;s transmission and distribution division has secured an order worth
approximately US$27.17 million to supply Adif.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East and North Africa utilities industry in a state of growth]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44995</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL.  The MENA region is already one step ahead in harnessing the power of its abundant sun. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi housing market reached standstill,  says Landmark Advisory ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44990</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Landmark Advisory forecasts that property prices and transactions in Abu dhabi are not likely to increase on the back of mortgage rate cuts and delivery of new units expected to take place at the end of the second quarter.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Rupert Murdoch believes in Arab creativity, appeals against censorship]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44997</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. News Corp Chief Executive Rupert Murdoch said he was betting on Arab creativity, unlike many media companies, and urged regional governments to reject censorship, as he opened a high-profile media conference in Abu Dhabi.

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UAE has the highest average online shopping spend, says MasterCard]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44983</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The UAE had an online shopping spend of US$1,048, compared with a slightly higher figure of US$ 1,193 a year ago. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Jim Rogers is long the Euro, maintains US$2,000 gold target]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44959</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Jim Rogers said he is long the Euro because &#039;whenever there&#039;s been a huge short position in anything, it&#039;s sometimes profitable to go to the other side.&#039;
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dar Al-Arkan successfully redeems US$600 million inaugural sukuk]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44993</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Issued by DAAR International Sukuk Company, the landmark 3-year US$600 million issue marked the first Sukuk to be issued by a Saudi company in the international capital markets. 
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Laptops and smart phones most common mobile computing products used by CXOs in Europe]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44992</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. New analysis from Frost &amp; Sullivan 2009 European CXOs&#039; Choice finds that the European CXOs expect the mobile communication as well as the computing products and services they use to be utilitarian rather than full of frills.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Long-term rating on UAE&#039;s National Central Cooling downgraded to &#039;CC&#039; ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44994</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Standard &amp; Poor&#039;s Rating Services said today that it lowered its long-term corporate credit rating on National Central Cooling Co. to &#039;CC&#039; from &#039;CCC+&#039;. The outlook is negative.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi foreign trade rises 9% in 2009]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44986</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs pointed out that Abu Dhabi&#039;s volume of foreign trade grew despite global economic challenges.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Initial indicators show that UAE continues to be the top tea re-exporter in the world ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44988</link>
<description><![CDATA[The indicators affirm that the UAE continues to play a key role in the international tea trade due to its unique geographic location and provision of competitive logistic and storage services.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[AC Schnitzer chooses Dubai for global debut of BMW X6M]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44987</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. AC Schnitzer held the global premiere of its aerodynamically modified kit of the BMW X6M at Dubai&#039;s AutomodEx exhibition yesterday. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[McAfee unveils new consumer threat alert program]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44985</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. McAfee warns consumers of &#039;Scareware,&#039; which claims one million victims a Day, scareware could cause consumers the most damage in 2010.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Singapore Airlines to feature new cabin offerings from Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44984</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Singapore Airlines&#039; will introduce daily Airbus A330-300 aircraft from Abu Dhabi to Singapore starting from 29 March 2010, featuring the Airline&#039;s latest product and service offerings. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Saudi Arabia&#039;s construction sector achieves 3.9% real growth in 2009]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44982</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. Real growth in the construction sector of Saudi Arabia reached 3.9% in 2009 with real estate growing by 1.8% according to a report from the Ministry of Finance.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Website on 9th Arab Media Forum launched]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44981</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Dubai Press Club today announced the launch of a comprehensive and updated website on the 9th edition of the AMF.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[DOMOTEX Middle East foresees shift in market trend]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44979</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Government measures such as Abu Dhabi&#039;s Estidama, Dubai&#039;s green building regulations set new benchmarks in interior flooring market.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Rapid expansion of terminal capacity, new seaports to spur Middle East maritime security market ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44976</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Lengthy delays in cargo screening have resulted in the stagnation of goods in ports for several months and disrupted trade.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Canon partner seminar helps to consolidate leading market position ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44973</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The OPP launches, announced at a recent channel partner seminar, have contributed to Canon&#039;s positive outlook for the OPP segment in 2010.  

]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Starwood announces plans to add 50 new hotels in Middle East, Europe and Africa by 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44972</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. With more than 240 hotels in 55 countries in EAME, we currently have a large enough footprint to enjoy the benefits of being an established and leading hotel operator in the most highly sought-after markets, says President of Global Development. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank provides US$81.7 million finance facility to Al Dhafra Cooperative Society]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44971</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Mohammed Khalifa Al Hamli stressed that Al Dhafra Society is committed to support the development of the Western Region, in addition to providing programs and plans that benefit the residents of the region.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[LG&#039;s latest Blu-ray player offers limitless content via Wi-Fi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44961</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The new model&#039;s built-in Wi-Fi allows it to connect to the internet or a home network to bring a wider variety of entertainment options to the living room.
]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Middle East water industry requires major investment]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44962</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The continuing population boom in the Middle East is causing a sharp increase in water demand. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Global Logistics Forum offers practical workshops ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44969</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Various subjects aimed at enhancing the skills of logistics professionals and specialists in coping up with the region&#039;s growing logistics demand will be highlighted in practical workshops.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Hedge Funds World Middle East Awards select winners from across the region]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44966</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Four months of intense competition, careful selection by an independent panel of judges culminated on 1 March in the announcement of winners of the 2010 Hedge Funds World Middle East Awards.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[SMARTRAC selected by De La Rue to provide eCovers]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44967</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. SMARTRAC has entered into a framework agreement with De La Rue Identity Systems for the provision of eCovers a component part of biometric passports, for certain ongoing contracts. 
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<title><![CDATA[Europe&#039;s largest architect arrives in Abu Dhabi]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44965</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Europe&#039;s largest building design practice has announced that it will open an office on 1 April in Abu Dhabi after agreeing to merge with local based multidisciplinary design practice SYNA.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[LG Electronics Live Borderless top 20 reveals world&#039;s wacky, wishful wanderlust]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44964</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Voting commences to select six for around the world in 80 days grand final.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Freshfields advises on Middle East IWPP Deal of the Year]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44963</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. International law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has won Middle East Independent Water and Power Project Deal of the Year 2009 at the Project Finance Magazine awards held on Thursday. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[South Korea mulls further UAE nuclear deals]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44958</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. South Korea hopes to build an additional four nuclear reactors in the UAE.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai World creditors divided over reported deal]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44957</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Hopes of progress this week on Dubai World&#039;s US$26 billion debt restructuring lifted stocks and eased fears of default, but potential divisions emerged among creditors to the state-owned conglomerate.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[GCC companies can save US$2.3 billion with strategic sourcing, says AT Kearney]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44943</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The research shows ways for major GCC companies to save on spend by creating transparency and reviewing what is bought, to maximise their purchasing power. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Fitch affirms Saudi-based Bank Aljazira at &#039;A-&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44950</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. Fitch Ratings has today affirmed  Bank Aljazira&#039;s  Long-term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at &#039;A-&#039; with a stable outlook, whilst affirming the bank&#039;s Short-term IDR at &#039;F2&#039;.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Gold has not peaked as &#039;Mr. Inflation&#039; forces investors to &#039;take on risk&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44956</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Current Fed chairman Ben Bernanke recently featured on the front-cover of Germany&#039;s Focus magazine, the country&#039;s third biggest weekly, above the headline &quot;Mr. Inflation.&quot;

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<title><![CDATA[Universal Flight Information System powers top 5 performing Airports]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44940</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dubai International Airport, another UFIS customer, is ranked second in the Middle East Region.
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<title><![CDATA[Blu-ray Patent Licensing Program announced by four companies]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44955</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Four leading companies - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Thomson Licensing, Toshiba Corporation and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has announced that they have commenced a worldwide joint licensing program beginning on 1 March 2010 for Blu-ray.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Barwa Financial District sale to Qatar Petroleum negotiations still underway]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44954</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Barwa has confirmed that it is still involved in highly positive negotiations with Qatar Petroleum  over the planned sale of the Barwa Financial District to the world&#039;s largest liquefied natural gas producer. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai stocks climb 1.7% on Dubai World rollover plan]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44953</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Dubai shares rose to the highest in more than three weeks after bankers said Dubai World will ask lenders to roll over loans when it presents a proposal to creditors this month.

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<title><![CDATA[Boris Becker and IWC Schaffhausen presents 4th Laureus Sport for good foundation watch in Dubai]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44952</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. German tennis legend Boris Becker visited IWC Schaffhausen&#039; Boutique at Dubai Mall yesterday to launch the 4th Limited Edition Watch that will benefit the Laureus Sports for Good Foundation charity.

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<title><![CDATA[Empower urges GCC authorities to prioritise environment conservation ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44951</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. District cooling service in limelight at WETEX 2010 following Dubai&#039;s success in implementing it in most real estate projects. 
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<title><![CDATA[Statoil and GAC sign worldwide agency contract

]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44937</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Major energy group Statoil has appointed GAC to provide hub agency services covering all ports outside of Norway effective from 2010. 
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<title><![CDATA[RAK Free Trade Zone grows 11% in 2009 ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44949</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Ras Al Khaimah FTZ forged on and emerged ahead of its game, joining the ranks of top-performing free zones in rebuilding confidence in the world economy.
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<title><![CDATA[Fox International Channels and Abu Dhabi&#039;s twofour54 announce strategic collaboration on three major projects]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44947</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The move highlights FIC&#039;s commitment to Abu Dhabi as well as reinforcing twofour54&#039;s commitment to position Abu Dhabi as a regional centre of excellence in content creation.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Delegation of American Chamber of Commerce Executives visit the Dubai International Financial Centre]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44942</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Dubai Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry to promote Dubai as an international business hub.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[World&#039;s Media leaders gather at inaugural Abu Dhabi Media Summit]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44941</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Summit to focus on emerging media in fast-growing economies of Middle East, Africa &amp; Asia.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Green crops could revolutionise Middle East agriculture]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44939</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Rising energy prices, global warming add new dimension, say organisers of agribusiness event.

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<title><![CDATA[Bank of Sharjah approves distribution of 12% cash dividends &amp; 5% bonus issue]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44930</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Ordinary General Assembly of the Shareholders of Bank of Sharjah approves during its 36th annual meeting, the proposal of the Board of Directors to distribute 12% cash dividend equivalent to US$65.40 million and 5% bonus issue equivalent to US$27.25 million.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[World&#039;s consumers expect economy to return to pre-crisis levels within three years]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44936</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Consumers of major Middle Eastern and Western states expect the global economy to revert to pre-crisis levels within the next three years and generally believe that conditions are not as bad as reported by media, Real Opinions, Orient Planet study reveals.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[National Bonds outsources SWIFT connectivity to EastNets]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44933</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. National Bonds Corporationhas outsourced its SWIFT connectivity to EastNets, providing customers an easier, faster and more convenient way to save their money, from anywhere in the world.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qtel posts 2009 record profit of US$9.64 billion, declares cash dividend of 70% of share face value
 ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44932</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. The company&#039;s strategy of diversification delivered a number of significant benefits, with the Qtel Group becoming the largest telecommunications provider in the Middle East North Africa region by number of operations in 2009.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UAE real estate market to witness demand-supply balance in 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44931</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Amidst expectations that the UAE&#039;s economy will rise by 3.2% in 2010, Shaikhani Group has predicted that the country&#039;s real estate market is poised for demand-supply balance this year.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Bank of Sharjah, BNP Parisbas plan private banking joint venture]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44926</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Bank of Sharjah plans to join forces with BNP Paribas to tap the fast-growing Middle-Eastern market for high net worth individuals.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[UK economic prospects &#039;grim&#039; says business group]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44925</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The British Chambers of Commerce  has downgraded its expectations for economic growth in the UK this year after warning that obstacles to a sustained recovery now appeared &quot;greater&quot;.
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<title><![CDATA[Samsung receives award for global customer service excellence]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44900</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Samsung Electronics received the 4th Middle East Government and Business Organsations&#039; award for &#039;Global Customer Care&#039; under the category of &#039;Electronics.&#039;]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Standard Chartered offers mortgage facility in Oman]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44916</link>
<description><![CDATA[OMAN. Standard Chartered has for the first time in Oman introduced a complete mortgage solution, targeted at residential owners. It complements Standard Chartered&#039;s current array of retail finance products. 
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<title><![CDATA[Dubai Financial Services Authority  signs Memorandum of Understanding with French Markets Authority ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44923</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The signing took place between Paul Koster, Chief Executive of the DFSA, and M Jean-Pierre Jouyet, Chairman of the AMF.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Gold is only store of value that stands test of time, says James West]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44889</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. There hasn&#039;t  been one currency in the form of paper or coin, not actually made of gold or represented by a deposit of gold, that has lasted more than 100 years as a global standard.
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<title><![CDATA[Sharp targets 20% growth business solutions products in the Middle East in 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44924</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Regional Sharp Solutions Summit 2010 brings together 150 partners from over 80+ countries in Middle East, Africa and CIS. 

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<title><![CDATA[Dubai records US$29 billion gold trade value in 2009]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44915</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. For the 12 months ending 31 December 2009, a total of 576 tonnes of gold was imported into Dubai, compared to 674 tonnes in the previous year, a decline of 15%.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Nissan forecasts 5-10% growth for region&#039;s commercial vehicles industry in 2010]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44848</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The commercial vehicles market in the Middle East is bouncing back from the effects of the global downturn, with major manufacturer Nissan forecasting 5-10% growth for the industry in the GCC this year.

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<title><![CDATA[Open debate on future of real estate investment]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44913</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Sweeping agenda at transparent 36-session Cityscape Abu Dhabi conference with 120 regional and international speakers.]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[Qatar&#039;s tourism sector set to maintain 6% annual revenue growth rate in 2010

]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44871</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Qatar&#039;s tourism will particularly continue sector to focus on inbound travel being generated by the rapidly expanding local meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions segment. 
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<title><![CDATA[Living in a democratic country is top priority for Arab youth]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=4&amp;t=1&amp;id=44921</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Good infrastructure, access to the best universities, being paid a fair wage, and living in a safe neighbourhood were identified as equally important priorities by ASDA&#039;A Burson-Marsteller largest-ever Arab Youth survey.]]></description>
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