Cheap Dubai Proeprties

1 Bedroom Property in Dubai Marina, Dubai
Bedrooms : 1
Set on the Podium Level Of DEC Tower. This Studio is offered for Sale in Excellent Condition throughout. For a full property buyers pack containing everything you need to know about this property, simply contact the elysian experts now on 800 elysian, or (+971) 4 323 4545, and give us the reference number above.We look...



2 bedroom Apartment in The Greens, Dubai
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1 Bedroom Property in Downtown, Dubai
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A stunning new Emaar development due for handover in the next month. The property will be finished to Emaars usual high standards. For a full property buyers pack containing everything you need to know about this property, simply contact the elysian experts now on 800 elysian, or (+971) 4 323 4545, and give us the refe...



1 Bedroom Property in Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai
Bedrooms : 1
This 1100 sq ft apartment boasts views of the marina and is located in the sought after and very popular JBR which benefits from numerous shops, restaurants, cafe's and the famous " The Walk" pedestrianised area right next to the beach. For a full property buyers pack containing everything you need to know about this p...



2 Bedroom Property in Motor City, Dubai
Bedrooms : 2
This 1471 sq ft apartment is located in Sherlock House 1 of Motor City and boasts views of the beautiful pool. For a full property buyers pack containing everything you need to know about this property, simply contact the elysian experts now on 800 elysian, or (+971) 4 323 4545, and give us the reference number above.W...

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Palm Jumeirah 2B/R + Maids - Marina Residence
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FD00026
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Dear Buyer / Seller,We are Specialized in Selling or Renting Commercial as well as Residential properties all over International city ...
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2 BED IN EXECUTIVE TOWER M
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1 B/R in Discovery Gardens For Sale
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1 B/R in Old town Kamoon 1
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1B/R For Sale in Marina Diamond
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Beautiful 2b/r Flat in Dubai Gate JLT for Sale
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· Dubai Gate · 2b/r · Good View · SP: AED900K NetRef: 3475With Regards,MohammedM:+971 50 919 2513Off: +971 4 323 0345www ...
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AED 1,000,000
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Good News-SWAP AJMAN PROPERTIES FOR READY UNITS IN DUBAI
AED 1,001
As you are well aware, after the global financial crisis hit the Dubai economy, many real estate projects have been ...
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Sports City 1 B/R For Sale
AED 656,000
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The Greens at Emirates Golf Club is a master-planned community that comprises affordable studio, one, two, three and four bedrooms ...
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Cheapest STD in Badrah - below Original Price - Dubai Water Front
AED 490,000
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Golden Mile
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1B/R Apartment for sale in JLT Icon Tower
AED 580,000
Apartment Details: Type : 1 B/R apartment Size : 770.00 sqft 15th FloorBuildings : Icon TowerS.P: AED 580,000 NET ...
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Golden Mile
AED 2,350,000
AP 117625Golden Mile at the Palm Jumeirah will give you a chance to own this Type D apartment with 2 ...
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JLT - Studio for sale: Call Now
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Good Looking Studio Apartment 8 Boulevard-Make Offer
AED 800,000
· Downtown Burj Dubai · 8 Boulevard · Studio · 554 Sq.ft · Business Bay View · SP AED 800k NetWith Regards,KhalidM: +971 50 ...
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Highly Luxurious 3b/r+Maid Flat in Damac Wave in Dubai Marina with Full Sea & Marina View
AED 2,000,000
The Waves is a 600,000 square foot (55,742 square meter), two-tower freehold residential development with 1, 2, 3 ...
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Old Town ( 2 B/R ) FOR SALE
AED 4,200,000
Apartment Details:Type: 2 bedroom apartment Size: 2156.00 sqftBuilding: TajerAED 4,200,000.00 NET TO OWNERContact:SAMA DEIRA ...
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Fully Furnished Studio for sale in Marina Mall Hotel
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Fully Furnished Studio for sale in Marina Mall Hotel - Full Marina view Size: 420.00sqftPrice: AED 996,000.00 NET ...
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Business Bay - 2B/R For Sale
AED 1,707,758
Apartment Details:Type: 2 bedroom apartmentSize: 1485.00 sqftBuilding: Executive Tower MView: Sheikh Zayed Road viewS.P:AED 1,707 ...
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Golden Mile
AED 1,975,000
AP 120547This Palm Jumeirah apartment for sale offers the ultimate luxury and convenience. Set in The Golden Mile, this property ...
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Dubai Marina (STD) FOR SALE
AED 940,000
Apartment Details: Type : Studio apartment Size :620 sq.ft Floor :5th floor Building :Royal Oceanic View : Marina view S.P ...
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CANAL LINKS – PALM JUMEIRAH – 1B/R FOR SALE
AED 2,500,000
PALM JUMEIRAH Apartment Details:Type: 1 bedroom apartmentBuilding: Canal Links Payments: AED 2,500,000.00 net to owner Contact ...
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GR8 Holdings selling Lake Signature 1-Ajman

does anyone know GR8 Holdings developer selling Lake Signature 1 at Emirate lake towers-Ajman ?is anyone buying there ?on their website they say to be member of GR8 Group with presence in USA, Pakistan and Dubai in various industries since 30 years, some of which include:GR8 real estateGR8 building materials LLCGuardian Real Estate (pvt)LtdBridgeight real estate ManagementBridgeight interior DesignersThe Cube event ManagementArmour protection ServicesCapital MarketDoes anyone know track record of any of those companies ?GR8 says they signed contract to build with TAFANI General Contracting but would not show copy of that contractThey showed me copy of Site Survey plan (affection plan ?) stamped by Ajman Planning dept. and naming GR8 Holdings as owner, and Chapal World LLC as master developer- does that confirm they will build this project ?In SPA it says CHAPPAL - is it same as Chapal company ?I am pressed to make next payment- should I ?Am I the only person who bought in this project ? the only one to deal with GR8 ?please helpthanks


I also bought a one bed room flat + study from GR8 in the lake signature building and it has caused me nothing but trouble. I have paid over £20,000 in instalments and have still not received any documentation from them. I sentbn them an e-mail this week and informed them i will not make anymore payments until i get some form of documentation. I have no confidence in the company and will be trying to see if and how i can get out of this contract and money back. There is no way that they will now be able to complete the building by 2011 as stated ( that was long enough). I am also in Limbo as what to do? It might be an idea to bring it to the Ajman authorities if that helps at all


Does your SPA state that Chapal are the owners? Does the name GR8 appear anywhere on the contract? (SPA) if not, Chapal is then the owner / developer and like most developers - they are feeling the crunch... (who are your checks / payments being made to? To Chapel or GR8??? You sure GRB is not simply a broker selling the project?? I say this because some brokers were collecting the funds and you have no gaurantee they pass it on to the developer.. If they bust out - the last payment you made to the broker may not make it the developer as just seemed to happened with Casadubai... I am not sure of relationshop between GR8 and Chappal....) Don't expect much help from the Ajman authority until such time they set-up their version of RERA - they will simply refer you to the developer as it's a contractual issue - a lawyer will tell you that you will be obliged to make the payments in accordance with the agreement you signed.. If the payments are not linked to construction - then you will be obliged to pay pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreement. (does your reservation form have a cancellation clause & outline penalites for cancellatione etc?) Your best bet would be to try to renegoitate the terms or ask for extensions from the developer under the circumstances. Until such time Ajman enacts and is prepared to implement the new laws, there's nothing you can do. If you stop payment without trying to work out a different payment plan or extension from the developer - you may lose the entirety of what you have paid.. As to wether or not they will proceed - anyone's guess - it depends on what % of the building they have sold and how over-extended they are on other plots.. In absense of an escrow acct / laws - it was not uncommon for developers in Ajman to use sales proceeds for other plots etc - as well as their overhead etc... Chances are, even with an escrow in place, if you paid less than 30% and they cancel, your money is gone... I guess it comes down to this - ' Do you want throw more good money after bad, without any assurance that this project will actually be built? You may want to ask them if you can apply the funds you paid to another project they have under construction? They may be amenable to that... Currently there is little in the way of governmental law / regulation to protect you, so your only real option to negotiate with the developer... I would try to transfer my payments to a project under construction even if it meant paying a slightly higher psf price. At least, you have a better chance to protect your investment.. unless you are prepared to write it off.. When it comes to Ajman, I would be very concerned about making any more payments on 'plots of sand' unless I see real progress and the developer operartes in a transparant manner.. BTW - NO developer would let any buyer 'see or examine' there contsruction contract.. They would announced that they signed a deal with a contractor but never disclose the contents of the contract.. This is the standard practise ANYWHERE - so, this is not uncommon. At this point, Ajman is very high risk,.. for many reasons.... ALSO the site survey you examined stamped by the govt simply means the plan has been filed and approved - it DOES NOT mean the project will be built.. these also exist in Dubai but many of these projects are being cancelled... good luck and I hope this helped...


Hi KayYou bought in L.S 1- Emirate lake towers-Ajman ?So did IWhich agent sold it to you ? - Are you in UK ?'No More Hotels' or 'Unity Estates' agents in England ? Have you signed Preliminary contract with agent ? with 3 years Payment Plan ?Perhaps we could both get in touch to make representation to GR8Are there other buyers who want to join ??let me have you email addressand read through my previous threads about LS 1 and GR8hear from youVerity

Thank you againvery kind of you to advise me Site Survey plan stamped by Ajman Pl.dept says GR8 is owner who need to apply for Affection plan - so this survey plan is not Affection plan ? GR8 Contract written on GR8 watermarked paper is named ' Payment Agreement' or 'Agreement to sell'- is it SPA ?Would SPA and Affection plan include Construction time schedules ?Contract names GR8 as seller, Chapal as developer or master developer- so who is developer(sub-developer?), site owner ?GR8 sent me copy of unsigned 2 page agreement of Chapal selling site to GR8- that contains clause' contract invalid if 30% not paid and if not authorised by Ajman L.dept 'My payments (20% SO FAR)were to GR8 Holdings account with ABN AMRO (bank recently bought by RBS?)and I hold payment receipts emailed by GR8I signed 3 Years Payment plan ( not linked to site progress) not with GR8- but with N.M.Hotels agent in UKPreliminary contract signed with agent differs from GR8 contract emailed recently to me as follows:-free parking space not mentioned ( previously incl. in unit price)-late payment penalties are 4% monthly compounded- was 1%-payment refunds by GR8 are interest free( paid with interest previously)-completion moved forward by 6 months-no Payment Plan included (blank page in GR8 contract)-30% retention of funds if I cancel (was 20%)COULD I Cancel project( get refunds) on the above GROUNDS ?Can you recommend lawyer for this ?Do I need lawyer to Renegotiate payment plan with GR8 ?Would my getting in touch with Chapal be recommended ?ask if GR8 paid for plot and when they start on site Tafani contractors (that I spoke to recently) have not signed Contract to buildI am sorry it is all about more questionsthank you again

Hi againreading through SPA contract :- GR8 reserves right to revert freehold interest to 99 years lease interest ( if F/H is not on offer from Ajman gov)- but project is in Ajman free zone !!- GR8 upon delivery of property nominates themself as estate manager of the building- service charge will be AED 0.3-0.6 psf + 30% of the fees ( what fees ??)- builders ( sellers) structure defects guarantee is now reduced from 10 years to 1 year post completion !- Force Majeure delays can extend to 2 years or moreThese are major differences between Prel. Agreement I signed at reservation and SPA they sent to me nowCan I rescind my contract with GR8 and seek full refund if SPA does not conform to the Prel. Agreement ?Cancellation penalties in Prel.Agreement are 30% of contract but contracts do not conformGR8 is unresponsive to my phone calls and emails - it looks they won't amend SPAUAE Contract law should not be that different to UK contract law ? but UK solicitors are reluctant to get involved and serve reg. letters on GR8saying they do not practice UAE lawI did send reg.letters myself outlining SPA not conforming and asking GR8 to amend SPA or refund fully my funds paidWill prices in Dubai drop by 40% later this year or its just a talk ?hope to hear from you,


UAE LAW and UK Law are quite different. (and this would be a dispute over an AJman property,,) UAE is law is a composite of the French Systemn & Sharia elements in it. Your UK solicitors are correct as they are not lic. to practice in UAE - however, if you made payments to NOMORE - you may be able to go after them.... If you cancel and they actually refund you 70% of your money - you'd be lucky and should take it and better to discuss thsi with a local atty,,, Once the Ajman level of RERA forms, you should have more protection. Yes, prices are already dropping - in some cases more than 40% - (based on asking prices.,.) The thing is - even if you drop your price to 2006 op levels - you may not find a buyer! THe market will adjust to 2006 price leves or thereabouts,. - which will make Dubia a more affordable place to live .I'd talk to an atty about your contract issues, and you better talk with buyers of this building that are living here - and see what they think and check the progress.. Not sure if GR8 has ever built a building?


Thank you againMy payments were to GR8 bank a/c in Dubai and they emailed receipts to date. First payment receipt was also send by No More agent-COULD I PURSUE NoMore for all refunds ??What also bothers me is GR8 reducing Building Defects guarantee from 10 years to 1 year post completion- is this legal in UAE ?HOW can I source out other buyers in same tower ??- could you recommend website or hotline ??GR8 never built before, not in UAE - they have manufacturing backgroundDo you think i can rescind this contract because of both contracts non-conformity ? (in either UK or UAE ?)as ever, thank you againhave a good weekendv

Hi I bought studio in L.S. 1- Ajmanand am in talks with GR8 and posted few treads hereabout inconsistencies of SPA and other things about this projectGR8 cannot prove that plot was handed to them by master Chapalif they do not hold title to plot- project will never go on sitedeveloper may default with our moneygive me your email address so we can bunch and share cost of lawyerare you in UK ?

Hi DaltonLike I replied to Fracas99 earlier todaygive me your email addressso we bunch together and share more info on GR8 and project off-linethanks

HI DALTONGot your contact and will mail todayWhilst in DubaiCould you visit GR8 Holding office on Sheikh Zayed Rd near Crown Plaza check if this is staffed office at all or just PO Box address ?Could you visit Ajman Municipality office and their Planning &Survey dept - ask for proof that plot was handed to GR8 Holding and payment transaction was approved by Ajman gov ?? you could also drive to site( think it is junction of Emirates Road and Sheikh Zayed Rd in new Ajman) and see if there is any billboard with GR8 AND Lake Signature- take some photos of any work progressYou could also see ChapalWorld master developer and ask same- Did they hand plot over to GR8 AND have they received 40% payment- and get proof of thatThey are also in Sheikh Zayed Rd at Emaar Gold & Diamond ParkI am in UK and will also go there but not yet- Also time is of essence !!If plot was not handed developer can default and run with our moneyyet they demand further payments- or you pay hefty penalties of 4% monthlycompounded ( that is 48% of outstanding payments would be your penalties alone !!!)which agent sold it to you ?hear from you soon

Hi and thank you againit looks GR8 cannot prove that plot was handed over to them, and that they indeed paid 40% (as they said before)- why would they lie ?No contract with Gen Contractor (TAFANI) was signed nor paidGR8 confirmed that project is at design stage ( on Saffarinis drawing board )In Law- can GR8 be marketing/ selling project when plot was not handed over and design not approved by Ajman Pl.Dept ?????I did try to speak/email to CHAPAL MASTER DEVELOPER - BEWARE- BEWARE !!!Appalling, unhelpful, difficult, secretivethey never replied to number of my emailsand talk with very unclear, heavy accented english- just to discourage you to follow your enquiry Chapal will not co-operate with End Users !!Likewise forget to get through to Ajman Municipality - Pl.Dept over the phonephone keeps ringing- but no replyMy feeling is plot will never be handed over to GR8. and if project be build at all- we , End Users will get 99 year leases- not the promised Freeholds !!!Chapal will hold the freehold title to plots that they allow other developers to build on.End-Users will end up paying high ground rents and unreasonably high service charges.thanks I am getting tired with this gr8 charade

It would not be uncommon for Chapel to avoid providing you any info on GR8 - as you are GR8's client and they really have nothing to do with you nor can even confirm if you are a buyer '/ investor...In answer to your question - 'Can a developer sell even though he has not be handed-over the plot in Ajman? - YES, they can. Once the Ajman muni approves their plan, they can start selling irrespective of receiving handover. (that used to be the same in Dubai until RERA changed the law last year....) If GR8 claims they are starting construction in a few weeks - they will start piling. (soil sampling / piling etc..) Usually, this is a different contract than with the construction work to build the tower.... (like TAFANI) GR8 should be working to be more transparant and have better investor relations - like proper updates either through emails to their customers and posting more info on their websites to make the buyers feel more secure. Unfortunately, many of these small firms are amatuers and otherwise clueless to the needs and sensitivities of their clients... Insofar as 'no one picking-up the phone in Ajman muni' - I feel your pain. I know this all too well and have spent many hours in their offices. That's just the way it is.. Best to try early in the AM - Ajman time. After 12PM - nearly next to impossible. if you get 99 year leases, it's not the end-all provided you will still be eligable for a visa once they re-inact the visa law..... I wouldn't overly concern myself on this issue and GR8 or any developer up there has no control over this. The ground rents should not be too high but you never know and there should be langauge in the SPA to cover you in more detail if this should happen - The developer should be vigilant being that they have 'paid' to purchase the land! good luck



HelloI have purchased in Lake Signature just recently. I have previously invested in several projects in Dubai and realised very quickly that I had to change the way I thought about buying property in the Emirates as the developers work very differently. There tends to be less paperwork available and it takes some time to get contracts out of them. On the other hand I feel that Dubai, Ajman and RAK are the safest places to buy in the world. When you look at the different regulatory agencies involved, the legal framework that protects clients and the fact they have had a massive clean up of the industry just recently and everything is pretty much working to a master plan with heavy involvement from the government...where else in the World can you get that. I personally thought the preliminary contract I received for my purchase at GR8 was extremely impressive compared to the 1 page documents I have been given for some of my purchases in Dubai. The fact that you actually get a preliminary contract rather than having to wait for 2 or 3 months is a good thing. The fact that Chapal is involved is also another good thing. Trust me, most other developers in Ajman would be a lot worse and I for one went for this development due to the royal seal of approval you get by the fact that the Crown Prince owns a chunk of the company. I don’t know about you but my preliminary contract was pretty much the same as the master that I recently got from GR8, with a few details excluded. Some details were slightly different on the master contract but it only took one email and one call to the agent to sort it out.I have made a considerable profit from my investments in the Emirates and will continue to invest there for the next 5 years at least. If you got the same price as me per square foot I think you should be happy that you have found such a steal and secure in the fact that you have invested in the most heavily regulated property sector in the world in one of the best property markets in the world and with the best developer in AjmanGood luck

Hiwhich Plan need to be approved by Ajman muni ?(before gr8 can start selling)Affection plan ? or full set of design plans, sections, elevations,struct. drawings ???If project is at design stage, Ajman has not yet approved plan ??in which case project should not be marketed yet ?Why should one believe GR8 statement that they paid 40% for the plotif they won't prove it in black & white to buyers ?any thoughts ?thank you

Hi which agent did you buy from ? in UK ?My preliminary contract is very different to what GR8 sent me nowin fact litany of differencies for sole benefit of GR8Will Ajman gov pay you back if GR8 will default on Lake Signature 1 ?what have you paid psf ?because I do not think it is cheap at todays exchangeespecially that you won't see it built for next 5 or more yearsand provision of water/electricity supply is in doubtjust a thought

I bought it from Unity estates.I did sign a preliminary contract with agent for a 3 year plan but till today have not received any the SPA and documentation. I have e-mailed them and called them and have been told that bthe SPA is in the post.you can contact me at 07810041995as you know would rather stop all payments asap and try to hold someone responsible if this is going to implode. would be good to hear from others as it seems many are in the same position.

HI AllI am also in the same boat. Bought apartment from agent in UK in Lake signature Ajman. As we all know their is not going to be any consturction at Lake signature 1 but problem is GR8 GR8 doesnot want to return any money. Who wants to return money back. The agent whom I bought the apartment is trying to get it but again it appears that GR8 is just trying to gain some time either they will run and leave middle east. I feel that agent should have figured out before he sold that apartment to me. Looks like Ajman rules and regulations are worse than 3rd world country. I feel bad but GR8 to me is a corrupt company.


You better check with ARERA - the Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Association and ask them to advise you & determine if an escrow acct was ever set-up. Chances are GR8 or for matter - most the developers there are not in a position to return any money as it's all been spent. If they have made land payments on a plot and then the Master Plan has been canceled, I believe that the Ajman muni. will only refund 70% of what has been paid - deducting a 30% penalty! AND - it won't be a cash refund - simply a 'credit' toward another plot that in all likelihood be higher than the going market rate. Pretty dim prospects indeed. The fact is, most the developers in Ajman started on a shoestring - without any experience in development per se and grossly under-capitalized fully expected that continued sales wound fund the project. Under the old laws, the developer could use the initial funds for land payments and marketing - so your first 30% - GONE. Most often, like in the case of RERA in Dubai, you may very well be advised to take the developer to civil court - 'contract-breach, tort action, etc . - however, this is very costly, time consuming and at the end of the day, if they don't have the money - you'll never collect. Many developers that have defaulted, some through their own mismanagement, others due to forces beyond their control are leaving the region. In the absence of any bankruptcy statues, there is little they can do.Considering the level and magnitude that the Ajman govt has defaulted, along with their 'insiders' that were the Master Developers - no doubt, they'd be pleased to see the investors throw their hands-up and walk away - which takes them off the hook. My advice is to NOT throw good money after bad as your chances or prevailing in an Ajman court are slim and none. I wonder if McVelvet is still delighted and glowing about his investment?

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Distressed Sale - Abu Dhabi Villa

riced to sell. I have investors looking to sell the following 4 bed villa at Alghadeer, Abu Dhabi:BUA: 3230 sq ftPlot area: 3370sqft, corner siteView: Garden view close to park/pool/facilities. Close to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, all facilities.Completion: Jan 2011Payment plan: 10% paid, 5% due next June 2009 and then every 6 mths. 40% on completion.Developer: Sorouh Real Estate PJSC (Sorouh.com / Home-Page)OP: AED1471sqft BUA, 10% paid in March 2008Sale Price: 1418sqft BUA netAmount payable to seller: AED450,000 including sales commission (i.e. less than paid upfront)This is priced for a quick sale. The vendors are not seeking a premium and are selling at a loss. This represents good buying and a quality investment for someone. Construction underway. Forecast yields still 9-10%.

Mortgage finance for the above Alghadeer villa is available from ADCB, Abu Dhabi Finance House, Al Wifaq, NBAD, RakBank, HSBC and others. All of the main banks will fund Sorouh projects and in particular Alghadeer given its prominence and the security of investment offered.LTVs from some of the banks are now creeping up with 90% funding from ADCB and RakBank available to approved customers. ADCB's current interest rate ranges between 7.25%-7.75%.The above villa is priced exceptionally well and will provide very good investment returns of 9-10% annually.

On behalf of investors, I am selling the following Alghadeer property at an under market price (40% discount):1. Property is a ground floor 1 bed terrace (909.28sqft gross BUA and 655.52sqft net) with its own private rear courtyard, which then leads to a shared park and a pool for the exclusive use of the terrace residents. 1 exclusive car park allocated to the property.2. Great location close to international school, shops, cafe and parks.3. Price is 990sqft - total purchase cost is AED 648,965 (0% premium). The payment to seller is t AED 474,692 including sales commission.4. Payment Plan - nothing further to pay until handover. At handover (2012), the balance to pay is AED 174,272.This is a high quality property with fantastic investment prospects. Nothing further to pay until handover. Forecast yield of 12.75%.

Dubai Property Market To Crash in 2010

Dubai is now just a land of tall towers and inflated prices for mostly all goods and services! I have no doubt that in next year or so when the time comes for handover of the properties - the only people who may have made money is developers and very first time buyers (not the resales). Resales in Dubai is a joke! I am trying to compare Dubai's overall economic lifeline to say UK.I am sure many people in this forum will disagree - let's see!

Old story, it's been played out before and it'll happen again. Market is re-adjusting and the strong will survive. Try Hong Kong 97 and 03, it will bounce back at some point but the entire world is being affected in this situation, which makes it unique. It's a world wide flushing of excess and too much greed....those that panic almost always lose.

We have to view Dubai in regional context. If the authorities issue a clear long term policy on permanent residency on apartment ownership, loads of people from India, Pakistan and China will arrive to outstrip the avaiolable supply. The market is adjusting for off plan properties and entering into a mature phase, ready to move in properties, shedding the extra weight in this process.

Just your opinion from millions, means nothing.

rouble is, crazy as it seems economically, Dubai does not seem to want 'foreigners' on a permanent basis. They have shown very little respect for the rights of foreigners in their country, including the labour market, and reversal of resident visa policies (particularly the over 60's, a massive potential market of retiree's)nobody even feels confident if their payments into escrow accounts are safe, too many variables and unknowns alround.I remember the excitement with which the forming of RERA was welcomed. that excitement didn't last long, what a washout.I personally would not get involved again, because I would not be confident that any laws they pass today would remain the same for future years.They cannot treat investors in the way they have and then expect current or future investors to have any confidence in their futures.i.e. the damage has been done.


totally agree with you Sixgun. All indications, actions and reversals clearly point in the same direction - 'they don't want 'foreigners' on a long term basis - the absence of which, the city will never grow nor attract enough critical mass to attract investors OR residents to create a sustainable economy. Like yourself, I was optimistic about RERA and the various laws enacted to 'protect' investors and create greater transparency. It was good in theory, but recent events over the last year suggest - it was only that - a 'theory' as they fell painfully flat in enforcing the very laws they created. The net effect of which, has left enumerable investors 'burnt crisp' to the tune of countless BILLIONS - leaving them in the real practical sense - with NO recourse. The prevailing attitude amongst local officials I am sorry to say, is a hairs breath away from complete and total 'contempt' of foreigners. Clearly observable from the time you clear customs to virtually every dept you need to interact with govt' or govt linked orgs. When reading about the cost to go to arbitration - it's simply insane and appears nothing more than a veiled attempt to 'squeeze' more money from foreigners - it seems designed to discourage and dissuade you from throwing more good money after bad rather than be an effective tool to help and assist. This is very, very sad indeed, as I was once very optimistic about Dubai and felt they were moving in the right direction but when they were faced with diversity - they fell painfully short. They were masters at 'Talking the Talk but NOT Walking the Walk' Not only on the retail level from an investors perspective but as we have now seen - on an institutional level. May no mistake about it - they way the current Bond Issue was handled, Dubai will find it very, very hard to find any institutional funding and support - in spite of whatever platitudes or positive spin you may see in the media. Institutions will avoid Dubai with a barge pole. TO those who proclaim, 'All the serious long term investors will be coming back this year' - wishful thinking at best or current portfolio managers stuck with inventory trying to attract the naive so they can dump and run.I truly respect and admire Sheik Mo's vision and what he tried to accomplish but unfortunately he placed cronies to execute his plan that are otherwise clueless and short term in their thinking and simply have little respect or concern for 'Foreigners.' Considering the order of magnitude of the people that got ripped off - covering the globe - don't expect for one minute that this will quickly fade away from the collective memory. Too many people have lost their ENTIRE life's savings...Considering the fact that more bonds will be coming due - with little of any sizable amounts of investments coming in and AD has it limits and also does not wish to throw away good money after bad - where will the money come from? Don't be surprised when you see the IMF step-in AND -INCOME TAX - PERSONAL & CORPORATE - think that will attract more investors? When all of your income becomes officially reported? I am sure the people from Iran, India, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, China etc... will love that.. In regard to the previous statement on this thread comparing Dubai to HK - It would take more than a litre of Jack Daniels to begin to see a similarity - as it does not exist. in Hk - you have a real rule of law - you have PR and can comfortably and securely live there for years. You have massive amounts of people from China that want to move there - and in fact, they had to tighten-up the visa restrictions less HK get flooded - in addition, it's still a desirable place for foreigners that are welcomed - not bitterly detested. I ask you, 'Where are all the people that want to storm the borders and establish a life in Dubai? ' If they existed, you housing surplus would vanish in a heartbeat. When I was living there - I spoke to many foreign nationals and they all had the same story, 'I was born here but I cannot call Dubai my home because at anytime I can be forced to leave. ' You lose your job - you're gone - it's that simple. I met retirees that lived and worked their for over 30 years - raised their families there and when it came to retirement - they had to be expatriated. Not their choice as they had the means to continue living there but by law - had to leave. How can you really build a city or a society that in effect , operates like a 'transient hotel' ?Dubai clearly wants foreigners to invest but does not want them as long term residents - plain and simple. They had a real chance and the support of many who shared the vision but alas, it was only that - a 'vision' and sadly, an unfulfilled one'. A vision evaporating like a smoke ring from a shisha pipe - a 'pipe dream' Sheik Mo's needs to replace his cabinet and bring in fresh ideas and a different mind set - especially within the legal structures and RERA to regain his credibility - but that too may be - too little too late - as has been pointed out - the damage has been done. My heart goes out to those stuck with property investments there and of course, they need to try to remain as optimistic as they can, but there also comes a time when you need to face the bitter facts and plan accordingly - or continue searching the bazaars for and oil lamp and keep rubbing waiting for your geneii. I wish you the best of luck.

We reach the point where the people will keep the property empty, but they will not sell.Prices will stay like this (+\- 10%) for the next couple of years.Me personally I will use my flat as a holiday destination. The government is completely bankrupt and I don’t see where fresh money is going to come from.If they don’t change the law nothing will happen, only the amount of empty buildings will increase.Dubai is disaster at the moment – no business, no activities, no lifeBut I still have the feeling, that this city needs a single spark and things might turn around

Dubai needs 80b$ not 10b$. The 10B$ are only to cover the interest charges and pay the contractors for the last couple of months. This is only patching - not enough. As I said fundamental changes are required, unless the property law and the visa issues are not favorable to the investors there is no way out.

I suggest to any of you who can to try to benefit from Abu Dhabi's generosity.If you owned Nakheel bonds at 50 cents to the dollar, that was a good trade. Abu Dhabi seems to be the next sucker on the block. Pass them the hot potato.Sell everything you can to them. Unfortunately, that may be difficult as the bailout is engineered to benefit the locals and not the foreigners. Anyway, just try to exploit their generosity as much as you can as we don't know how long it will last. FYI, Abu Dhabi is trying to renege on its obligations on Citibank... Their word cannot be trusted.

"Unfortunately, that may be difficult as the bailout is engineered to benefit the locals and not the foreigners"As is every single other aspect of life, in the long run.This whole dream and vision was engineered with one thing in mind, to further the prosperity of Dubai and it's people, while showing off Dubai as a glittering jewel of future tourism and technology.Nothing wrong with that, unless you're one of the pawns caught up in the game with absolutely no respect or rights (yes, the foreigner on their shores)

If Dubai really intends to turn itself into a fantastic city and business/financial hub then eventually they will have to make foreigners more welcome.I think they will.

Well, that's a revelating piece of info.Dobuy, you have always supported Dubai thru thick and thin, respect,..However, with your recent responses, I'm starting to wonder if you're a state controlled robot??can you confirm/deny??

I totally disagree with you. what you are saying or imagining as like a man sitting alone in a desert! can’t you see the life in Dubai? People? Malls? Activities and festivals and all those huge projects? what about the huge projects on jabel ali zone which will be done by 2015 with are worth more than 50 usa billions? those projects just aint buildings? those projects are for large international computer companies and chemical production companies. what you are saying is false and nowhere close to reality. if you see Dubai as dead and empty buildings then i guess you are seeing what is around you only and i personally no idea where do u live exactly. as a fact prices started to increase for ready move in properties such as al badrah and business bay which will be done soon and handed over. finally if you do not like the city of Dubai you are always welcomed to leave it. no one is grabbing u from ur arms and asking you to stay here.

I guess the mantra "build it and they will come" is now irrelevant for Dubai.Dubai is facing massive over-construction and it's going to take a while before the mess is sorted out.The new mantra should be "swallow it and digest it, get leaner and start again with less leverage, better and fairer legislation, and give better treatment to foreign investors."Only when confidence is rebuilt will peolpe reconsider Dubai. In the meantime, there are many places ranking much better in terms of risk/return for your investments than the Emirates... unless of course your are a masochist.Good luck and merry Xmas.

I still believe the government does not really accept the issue.If you drive though the Emirates road there are signboards like "they said it was impossible to build a garden in the desert. so what?" so what... it is still a desert and a the city is now one of the ugliest places if you go farther from a mall.it would be a shame if it stays the same for the next 10 years as opposed to how it has changed during the last 10.personally, i think the collapse is still coming with the global economy worsening unless they rethink offices rent prices, housing costs and 'the foreigners issue'.

Firstly Sixgun,is it true you shoot blanks if you know what I mean ?Secondly what does 'revelating' mean?Thirdly,if you bothered to read all my posts then you would appreciate I post both negative and positive comments on Dubai.

revelating means it was a revelation, to me.But of course, it wasn't really, it was pretty obvious.

Come on guys, this is immature,... we are all adults here and the purpose of this forum is to exchange views and ideas in a civilised respectful manner.Now then...I personally believe Dubai will bounce back ... not any time soon, but it will and at a controlled pace. It is still the best place to be in the region, it has alot goin for it, it is by far more advanced than the rest of the cities, and it offers more opportunities still. So alot of aspects are attractive about it despite the down fall.This is a wake up slap to everyone,... speculators ... property is not a product that you buy and sell over a week. Developers, stop being greedy!!.... and the real estate firms, improve your services, quality, professionalism... or get the hell out of this market. The market will force you out.

Good Day Investoman_uae, In principle I agree with you but would like to add that the rulers of UAE including Dubai should come up with long substainable law instead of changing them every now and then as well as to clear any discrepency /clarity in law where needed. I guess the investors will only regain confidence (if at all possible) by concentrate measures taken by the UAE government(inclusing solid law which protects investment)

indeed, until the rulers show commitment to and acceptance of the foreigners through the application of universal rule of law, people will have no interest in Dubai.The memory of massive screwing of foreign investors to the benefit of the locals will not be erased overnight.Confidence takes a lot of time to rebuild. Dubai has not started yet.Until they do, stay away from this con.

Which is pretty much what I stated on page 1 of this thread.if a person had, right now, say $500k, from a life-time of hard work and saving, and they're looking for a place in the sun to retire, or buy a second home, where will they consider?Dubai?? well, maybe if they've had their head in the sand for the last 2 years. Even if they were getting the bargain of the century, maybe 25% of the original price, what would be the point?? when they dont know STILL, if they'll be allowed to live in the place.Now, say Dubai changes their visa rules TOMORROW, and say welcome all, residence visa's here when you buy!!!!!!Who's going to believe them? the same people who had their heads in the sand for last 2 years.Then there are the people who HAVE bought already, some may be ok as they bought years ago and are collecting rents now, just a large dip in income.These people will still wear rosy glasses and promote the place as paradise, because it's now in there best interest to do so.Then there are the people who bought too late and are still looking at a hole in the ground instead of a building- for them, blind panic.Confidence may return, but it must be long, long time, because most of this generation, anyone with even a slight interest in international property, KNOWS now, what has been going on, and how many people have been left broke.

French fries by McDonald's fries in another controversy

Mc Donald’s fried in another controversy which pertains to its French fries! Going by stats at least three lawsuits were filed in United States over its use of wheat and milk as flavoring ingredients in French fries. // The bone of contention is that these constituents might trigger allergy in some individuals.

Earlier, McDonald's also announced that the content of trans fat in a large serving of fries is higher than previously estimated.

The three lawsuits were filed by consumers after they had French fries from the fast food giant’s shops and exhibited allergic symptoms.

The lawsuits were filed in Chicago, Florida and California. The French fries triggered gastrointestinal symptoms and other allergic reactions in these individuals.

U.S. food makers are required by law to label the major food allergens such as gluten.

Food allergy is common in the U.S. Two percent of adults and five percent of children are allergic to one food or another.

The action taken by Mc Donald’s is to test its fries for gluten.

UAE's oil revenues to cross $100b

Abu Dhabi: The official selling price (OSP) of Abu Dhabi crude oil grades from January to June this year averaged $108.32 per barrel, a whopping 73.6 per cent rise on the year in line with soaring global oil prices.

Should the price momentum of the first-half of the year sustain in the second half, the UAE's oil export revenues are poised to race past the record $100 billion mark in 2008.

Oil prices surged past the $147 mark per barrel earlier this month, a new record high, despite Saudi Arabia pledging to pump more oil into the market to dispel fears of a supply shortfall.

Latest data from the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) show that the average price of its crude grades - Murban, Lower Zakum, Umm Shaif and Upper Zakum have risen consistently month on month this year with their prices averaging $132.28 per barrel in June, $124.1 for May, $107.85 for April, $100.81 for March, $93.83 for February and $91.06 for January.

The average price of Adnoc's crude grades for January-June 2007 was $62.39.

Abu Dhabi's production accounts for nearly 94 per cent of the UAE's crude oil output. The UAE's current oil output averages 2.66 million barrels per day.

According to the UAE Central Bank, the country's oil exports in 2007 were valued at Dh261.42 billion, up 22.5 per cent on year.

The average price of the UAE's crude in 2007 was $71.70 per barrel, 12.9 per cent higher than the 2006 average price of $63.53 a barrel.

The UAE's proven oil reserves of 97.8 billion barrels make up 7.9 per cent of the world's total reserves.

Local economists say the government should invest the burgeoning oil income to secure the future generations of the country.

"The surplus money could be invested inside the country in definite projects or outside the country through the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority," said Mohammad Amerah, an Abu Dhabi-based economist. "For sure, there will be a surplus in the next year's budget," he added.

Economist Mohammad Al Asoomi, said that over the last four years, thanks to the soaring oil export revenues, the UAE government has been able to invest substantial amounts of money in improving infrastructure and has also invested in overseas markets.

"The surplus has been there for years and has been used very successfully. The money has been used to improve airports, seaports and roads. The economy in general, has flourished. The government should continue to invest the oil income within and outside the country," said Al Asoomi.

The UAE's oil would last 92 years at current production levels, latest estimates show.

The UAE's sustainable crude production capacity could rise 9.12 per cent to 3.11 million bpd by 2013. At present, oil is being produced at only 18 of the 67 potentially known fields in the UAE.

Abu Dhabi resident becomes millionaire overnight

Dubai: Luck favours the unexpected. A Filipino technician became a millionaire overnight, thanks to Abu Dhabi Duty Free’s Big Ticket raffle draw.

Victor Cabote Arogar from the Philippines, 33, a resident of Abu Dhabi for the last seven years, bought his lucky ticket at Abu Dhabi International Airport before leaving on vacation last month.

"I am very thankful and happy for the draw’s result. I really could not believe it at first when I received the call telling me I was the grand prize winner," said Arogar, who is married and has a daughter on whose education he intends to invest the winnings.

Abu Dhabi media firm eyes film industry bargains

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - Abu Dhabi Media Company is eyeing investment opportunities in film-making as hedge funds abandon Hollywood and studios scramble to raise new financing, the company's chief executive said.


The state-owned company plans to grow through joint ventures and acquisitions as it seeks to become a global player.

"The timing is good. The hedge funds' money flooding Hollywood led to a bubble ... Money is not flowing," Edward Borgerding told Reuters in an interview on Monday.

"Now there's less pressure on actors and movies can be made at lower production costs with good quality."

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and flush with oil money, is pushing state-owned entities to pick up bargains globally to diversify the emirate's economy.

Earlier this month, the company set up Imagenation Abu Dhabi, a film unit that plans to spend some $1 billion over the next five years to develop, finance and produce content for both the global and Arabic-language markets.

It also set up a $250 million fund in partnership with Los Angeles-based Participant Media.

"This is just the first partnership. Next month we will announce two more partnerships with Western companies that would broadly be similar in structure to the one with Participant Media," Borgerding said, declining to name the firms.

"We are a company that companies think of when they have opportunities. I do see media investments in companies happening," he said.

Borgerding dismissed any cultural or religious clash in working with Western companies such as Participant Media, which made "An Inconvenient Truth," a documentary film about global warming presented by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore.

"Our objective is not to annoy people, but to entertain and send positive messages with films we make," he said.

Nor are Western companies uncomfortable with working with a government-owned outfit, he said.

"We operate as a modern, corporate and commercially driven entity with our own board of directors," Borgerding said.

Abu Dhabi Media Company employs 1,800 people across its units which include publishing, television, radio, digital media, distribution, and printing.

The firm's headquarters are in Abu Dhabi and it has offices in Cairo, Dubai and Washington D.C.

Danish, Konar enter last four

SAMI Danish and Abhijet Konar reached the semi-finals of the Late Y K Almoayyed Ramadan Tennis Doubles Tournament being organised by the Bahrain Tennis Club at its courts in Juffair.

In their last first round match in Group 'A', Danish and Konar beat Abdullatif Kamal and Yousif Al Qaud 6-4, 6-4 in a well-contested affair.

Despite the defeat, Kamal and Al Qaud still have a chance of qualifying for the semi-finals as group runners-up.

They must win their last match against Mauricio and Odrios to qualify.

Ahmed Omran and Abdulhamid Mufeez recorded their maiden win in the same group, beating Odrios and Mauricio 6-2, 6-4 in a match of no consequences.

Kamal and Al Qaud's main rivals are Mohammed Nasser and Ali Abdulraouf who will be looking to win their tough match against Danish and Konar to steal the second and final slot in the last four.

In Group 'B', Rashid Shuwaiter and Sami Al Salem bagged their third successive win, defeating Tariq Shehab and Ibrahim Qaed 7-6 (7-5), 7-5 in a well-contested match.

The win helped Shuwaiter and Al Salem to win a berth in the semi-finals and end their opponents' chances of qualifying.

The remaining matches in both groups are scheduled for Friday while the semi-finals are set for Monday, to be followed by the final on September 26.

Meanwhile, the last eight matches of the Late Majid Al Zayani Tennis Doubles Tournament will be held tonight at 9pm.

In Group 'A', Yousif Al Qaud and Abdulla Kamal will be hoping to win their last match against Mohammed Yousif and Riyadh Dhaif in straight sets to qualify.

In Group 'B', Salah Al Najjar/Qadri Rizq and Ismail Al Marhoon/Jaffar Al Adraj have already sealed their spots in the semi-finals.

Danish and Yousif Al Amer are leading Group 'C' with an unbeaten record and will play their last match against Abdullatif Kamal and Abdulhamid Mufeez.

Compete

Naji Al Samahiji/Abdulhussain Nashaba and Emad Ali/Mahran Mohammed will compete for the second spot in this group.

The Group 'D' top match is scheduled for today when Mahmood Al Shehabi and Daniel Clement clash with Sami Al Salem and Mohammed Jaffar to decide the group leader.

In the darts tournament, also being organised by the club for its members during Ramadan, Khalid Kamal is on top with eight points from four wins and one defeat. He is followed by Abdulla Kamal and Khalid Ghuloom (6 points each) in second place.

Mohammed Abdulnabi is still ahead in the carrom tournament with sixth successive wins. He is eight points ahead of Yousif Al Qaud and Hussain Al Makharraq who are second and third, respectively. Other players in the fray are Mirza Al Sammak, Rashid Shuwaiter, Mohammed Nasser, Ismail Al Marhoon, Khalid Ghuloom and Ahmed Qaed.

Aussies to go ahead with tour of India

SYDNEY: Australia decided yesterday to go ahead with their upcoming four-Test tour of India despite security concerns following a series of deadly bomb attacks in New Delhi.

"Our advice is there are some concerns and to exercise caution, but currently they do not compromise the tour," Cricket Australia said on its website.

Ricky Ponting's 15-man squad is due to leave this weekend with the first Test starting in Bangalore on October 9, with a Test match in Delhi from October 29.

Five coordinated bomb blasts ripped through crowded markets across the Indian capital on Saturday evening, killing more than 20 people and wounding at least 90 others.

Indian Mujahideen, a shadowy Muslim militant group, claimed responsibility.

Cricket Australia commissioned an urgent security review following the bombings and spokesman Peter Young said it had concluded that travel to India remained appropriate.

He said tight security arrangements were already in place for the Australia A team currently in India, and they would be extended to the senior squad when they arrived.

"In consultation with the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India), we have upgraded security in and around the dressing rooms and they will have an escort to the ground," he said.

"Australia A players have also been told not to leave the hotel without good reason. It's just a matter of prudence."

The team will initially travel to Jaipur, the state capital of western Rajasthan, where 65 people were killed in similar blasts in May, for acclimatisation and a practice match.

A second practice match in Hyderabad is scheduled before the first Test in Bangalore, the southern city rocked by eight bombs in July that killed a woman and injured seven. Pakistan blast Aussies - Page 47

Symonds vows to play again for Australia

BRISBANE: Troubled Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds expressed remorse yesterday over the "gone fishing" scandal and said he wanted to play for his country again.

The 33-year-old was axed from Australia's upcoming tour of India after opting to go fishing rather than attend a compulsory team meeting during their one-day series against Bangladesh in Darwin last month.

It was just the latest drama to engulf him during the past year.

He was involved in an on-field dispute with Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh, upset Australian officials by declaring he would not play in Pakistan and was fined for missing a team bus in the West Indies.

There has been consistent speculation over whether he will turn his back on international cricket and instead ply his trade in the Twenty20 Indian Premier League, but he insisted yesterday he wanted to play for Australia again.

"I'm going through the process of trying to improve and become not only a better cricketer but a better person," he said here in his first comments since the scandal.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of taking up cricket again for my club, state and country, hopefully." Symonds, who is undergoing counselling, has apologised to his family, his teammates and cricket fans for his behaviour.

He said he lived his life "for the moment" but knew he needed to change.

"I'm in a position of responsibility, I can't live irresponsibly," he said.

"I've realised that and it's probably taken me longer than it should have." Symonds said his rise from state player to international superstar had been difficult to cope with. "You get something cast over you which you have no control over. Being recognised is something I deal with well sometimes and other times not so well," he told reporters.

Shoaib barred over fine

LAHORE: Troubled fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will remain barred from all Pakistani cricket until he pays an outstanding fine, a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) legal adviser said yesterday.

The 33-year-old was not named in any of the 16 teams for Pakistan's inaugural Twenty20 competition, and will not be considered for next month's four-nation T20 tournament in Canada if he does not play the October 4 to 8 domestic event.

Akhtar, who is currently playing for English county side Surrey, owes seven million rupees ($100,000) for criticising the PCB over its failure to award him a central contract.

He was originally banned for five years but the penalty was eventually reduced to a fine by an appeals commission and the Lahore high court.

Dubai's DIC rules out fresh Liverpool bid

DUBAI: Dubai International Capital (DIC) ruled out on Monday a fresh bid for Premier League football club Liverpool (LFC) or other clubs and said it was not aware of any other interest from the Gulf Arab emirate.

"DIC can confirm that it is not involved in any negotiations to buy LFC and is not planning a fresh bid for LFC or any other football club," the investment fund, owned by the ruler of Dubai, said in a statement.

Speculation has mounted that Gulf Arab investors would look to emulate an Abu Dhabi-based group that took over Manchester City on Sept 1 by buying into football teams.

"Nor is DIC or any other Dubai-based party aware of any consortium or vehicle involved in a bid," the firm said.

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley said on Sunday he had put the Premier League club up for sale after falling foul of the fans following coach Kevin Keegan's resignation.

Schuster: Robinho deserves a better club than Man City

MADRID: Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster said on Monday that Brazil international Robinho, who made a shock move from the Spanish champions to Manchester City earlier this month, had joined a “mediocre” club.

“From a sports point of view, for me it is a disappointment because Robinho had everything here to triumph,” he told private television Cuatro.

“But you have to respect his dream to be a good player in a mediocre club in England,” the German coach added.

Robinho, who was under contract with nine-time European Champions Real until 2010, had repeatedly said he was determined to join Chelsea, who are now coached by former World Cup-winning Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari. But in the final minutes of the transfer window on Sept 1, the 24-year-old winger signed a four-year deal with Manchester City — who were playing second-tier football just six years ago — after Chelsea refused to meet Real’s asking price of 40mil euros (US$57mil).

Robinho had been unhappy with Real over their willingness to sell him to fund a failed move to sign Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. He scored his debut goal for Manchester City during his new side’s 3-1 loss on Saturday to Chelsea. Manchester City was recently taken over by the Abu Dhabi United Group which is funded by the Abu Dhabi royal family. — AFP

Dubai 'rescue' of Newcastle thrown into doubt

Reports last night that Newcastle are poised to be taken over by Dubai's Zabeel Investments have been dismissed as "highly unlikely" by an informed source in the United Arab Emirates.

Mike Ashley, Newcastle's owner, and his cohorts Dennis Wise and Tony Jimenez have spent the past few days touring Dubai - where they have been spotted in assorted hotels and restaurants - and its neighbouring emirate, Abu Dhabi, in an attempt to sell the club.

They apparently passed a document to representatives of Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, offering the club for $860m, around £480m. With Sheikh Mohammed intent on buying Liverpool, and the price around £230m more than Ashley has invested in the club, there was little initial interest. But last night it was reported that Zabeel and the Dubai Investment Group, companies owned by Sheikh Mohammed, were considering making offers.

Although Ashley was said to be "in talks" with Zabeel last night, it is thought that this could be merely the latest move in an on-going game to persuade Liverpool's American owners to sell. Indeed, experts in the Gulf believe Ashley is far likelier to find a buyer in Qatar.

The sports retailer's claim that he is selling Newcastle because he fears he and his children will be assaulted by fans has not played well in the UAE and could prove a deterrent to purchasers. Northumbria police yesterday denied suggestions that they had warned Ashley to stay away from St James' Park last Saturday.

Although fans were outraged at Ashley's running of the club and the events which led to Kevin Keegan's resignation a fortnight ago, supporters' groups had stressed that all protests must be non-violent. Many fans have been insulted by the idea that Ashley or his children would be harmed if they visited the ground.

Goans for Doha clash

THE Bahrain Goans will field a team in the Gulf Goans Soccer Tournament to be held in Doha beginning on October 3.

The tournament is being organised by the Goan Welfare Association in Qatar, and teams from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the host country are expected to take part.

The Bahrain Goans league committee, under the chairmanship of G R Crasto, has selected a squad of 14 players from the local Goans league to play in the competition.

The team includes Brewyn Joseph Fonseca, Inacio Vales, Mario Palha, and Fermino Correia of Vasco team; Beta Sequiera and Rocky Fernandes of Salcette; Godwin Pinto, Joaquim Fernandes and Merwyn Alfonso of Navelim; Tony Fernandes of Benaulim, Terence Coelho of Calangute, Marshall Barreto of Canacona, Jimmy D'Costa of Chinchinim, and Joy Corda of Mapusa.

The squad will be accompanied by team officials Vincent D'Costa, Hilary Sanches and Felix Rodrigues. All the selected players are requested to attend training sessions between 7pm to 9pm on Thursdays and Saturdays at the Al Nojooh grounds.

Al-Qa'ida suspect appeals to voters for help to return to Montreal

OTTAWA - A Sudanese-born Canadian Muslim accused of Al-Qa'ida ties appealed to Canadian voters through his lawyer and rights groups on Tuesday to help him return home to Montreal from a six-year exile in Sudan.

"The Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations is calling on the government to immediately repatriate Canadian citizen Abousfian Abdelrazik," said CAIR-CAN spokesman Ihsaan Gardee, echoed by Amnesty International.

"The Canadian Muslim community, in particular, is watching the development of this case with great concern," he said, noting it was "eerily similar" to the recent ordeals of four other Canadians wrongly detained and tortured abroad.
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Gardee also urged voters to press candidates in an October 14 election to campaign for Abdelrazik's prompt return to Canada. He is currently holed up at the Canadian embassy in Khartoum having said he fears for his safety.

"If there are valid security concerns in this case, deal with them lawfully and fairly through Canadian law in Canadian courts," said Alex Neve of Amnesty International.

"It is time for the government to take swift action to ensure Abousfian Abdelrazik is able to return to Canada," he said. "It is time for him to face justice, not injustice."

Abdelrazik has been trapped in Sudan since he traveled there to visit his ailing mother in 2002, after his name appeared on a United Nations no-fly list over his alleged ties to Al-Qa'ida.

During his stay, he claims he was detained for two years and tortured by Sudanese officials, but faced no charges.

In late August, Abdelrazik managed to secure a seat on a flight that left Khartoum at 4:15 pm on Monday for Toronto, via Abu Dhabi.

The United Arab Emirates's Etihad Airway was willing to defy the no-fly order to accommodate him, his lawyer Yavar Hameed told AFP.

But Ottawa balked at issuing him an emergency passport, citing national security concerns, Hameed said.

Canada's Foreign Affairs department declined to comment Tuesday "as this matter is currently under litigation" to force his repatriation, a spokeswoman said in an email.

Sama Dubai gets green signal for Dh91b Tunsia project

Dubai: Sama Dubai has received approvals to develop a Dh91 billion ($25 billion) mixed-use project - Mediterranean Gate - in Tunisia, in partnership with the Tunisian Government, a top official said.

Farhan Faraidooni, executive chairman of Sama Dubai, said in an exclusive interview that the move reflects a strong partnership with the Tunisian Government.

Gulf News: You had announced a joint venture with EC Harris last year. Does it involve a stake in Sama Dubai's management?
Farhan Faraidooni: The EC Harris joint venture is limited to the project management sphere of Sama Dubai's business. The combined EC Harris and Sama Dubai team has completed infrastructure works at the Salam Yiti and the Dubai Towers Doha project sites.

What steps have you initiated to maintain investor confidence in the current scenario?
We are committed to protecting the interests of our customers, our investors and our business partners. Construction work at The Lagoons is continuing as scheduled.

What is the latest in the Sama Dubai project pipeline?
Our master plan for the $25 billion Mediterranean Gate project in Tunisia has been approved. Our last launch was three months ago with the Creekfront, a major revitalisation initiative.

We are interested in all markets that promise high investment potential and acceptable rates of return. We are in discussions with over five government development agencies in as many countries.

What challenges do you face?
We have to deal with massive inflationary pressures - price increases in material and supplier costs - as well as cut-throat competition for a limited supply of experienced suppliers and human capital.

It is no secret that demand for contractors and human resources is outstripping supply.