The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has reported that Hajj arrival statistics from the KSA General Authority of Civil Aviation. As of August 14, 705,000 pilgrims have arrived to perform Hajj 2017.
As directed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince, King Abdulaziz International Airport and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport have both stepped up on preparations to receive the growing number of pilgrims.
The SPA separately reported that the National Pilgrim-Guides Foundation for Arab countries received the vanguard of 4,500 Yemeni pilgrims in Makkah. They were received by the Yemeni Minister of Endowments and Guidance and Head of Yemeni Hajj Mission Dr Ahmed Atiyyah.
Dr Atiyyah commended the directives of the KSA government and the services to receive pilgrims. He said the full complement of Yemeni pilgrims should be in KSA by Dhulhijjah 2, 1438, estimated to be around 24 August 2017.
According to the SPA, the Turkish pilgrims guiding foundation has adopted the offered electronic guidance system for the Hajj. Traditionally, a leader guides a delegation at his discretion. With the electronic system, all movement to the Hajj rituals is systematic and organised.
In a workshop to explain the new system in Makkah, Majid Sibgha, the general supervisor for pilgrims guiding sector, said that under the new system Turkish pilgrims will leave their camps at a certain time, and follow preset routes to and from the Jamarat site.
Showing posts with label turkey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label turkey. Show all posts
Tuesday, 15 August 2017
Saturday, 24 June 2017
Eid Al Fitr in a luxurious Turkish suite
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| Source: Mandarin Oriental Bodrum. Living room interior. |
The Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, Turkey has a suite offer till 2 July that begins at EUR1,325. The package includes:
- Complimentary fourth night when booking three consecutive nights in a suite
- Daily full breakfast at the Sofra Restaurant for up to two guests
- Special Eid in-room amenities
- Resort credit of EUR150 per suite to be used for food and beverage or spa services per stay/ per unit
- VIP roundtrip transfers to/from Bodrum International Airport
- Premium class VIP Airport and Lounge Service on arrival and departure
- Minimum four-night stay
Mandarin Oriental Bodrum
Cennet Koyu Çomça Mevkii Göltürkbükü,
Bodrum, 48400,
Muğla, Turkey
+90 252 311 18 88
View the terms and conditions
Saturday, 26 November 2016
Islamic Development Bank shares update at COMCEC
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group has participated in the 32nd Ministerial Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC), which took place 21 to 24 November in Istanbul, Turkey.
On 23 November, IsDB and Borsa Istanbul, the sole exchange entity of Turkey, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate in fostering Islamic finance in Turkey and other IsDB member countries. The MoU provides a basis for both institutions to work together to expand the size of sukuk issuance and shari'ah-compliant IPOs at Bursa Istanbul.
Recently-appointed IsDB President Dr Bandar Hajjar highlighted the pioneering role IsDB has taken in supporting Islamic finance for economic development in member countries. Over the past 40 years, IsDB has supported the development of the Islamic financial industry through equity investments, supporting the necessary enabling environment, and developing financial products and funds.
On 23 November, IsDB and Borsa Istanbul, the sole exchange entity of Turkey, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate in fostering Islamic finance in Turkey and other IsDB member countries. The MoU provides a basis for both institutions to work together to expand the size of sukuk issuance and shari'ah-compliant IPOs at Bursa Istanbul.
Recently-appointed IsDB President Dr Bandar Hajjar highlighted the pioneering role IsDB has taken in supporting Islamic finance for economic development in member countries. Over the past 40 years, IsDB has supported the development of the Islamic financial industry through equity investments, supporting the necessary enabling environment, and developing financial products and funds.
IsDB helped establish 35 financial institutions that supported the sukuk issuance as a market maker. Dr Hajjar also emphasised the bank’s contribution in building the Islamic finance ecosystem by supporting the creation of the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI), International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation (IILM), Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB), and the Islamic International Rating Agency (IIRA). The bank’s current portfolio stands at around US$120 billion, including US$64 billion of trade financing and US$32 billion for infrastructure financing.
The IsDB delegation also reiterated its commitment to implement the OIC 10-Year Program (2016-2025) under the cooperation pillar of its 10-Year Strategy (2016 to 2025) and its continuing work to enhance intra-Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) trade as well as implementation of the Trade Preferential System among the Member States of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (TPS-OIC). The delegation also highlighted the current focus of the bank’s World Trade Organization (WTO) Technical Assistance Program on three themes: accession to the WTO, regional integration and national activities.
The IsDB delegation also reiterated its commitment to implement the OIC 10-Year Program (2016-2025) under the cooperation pillar of its 10-Year Strategy (2016 to 2025) and its continuing work to enhance intra-Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) trade as well as implementation of the Trade Preferential System among the Member States of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (TPS-OIC). The delegation also highlighted the current focus of the bank’s World Trade Organization (WTO) Technical Assistance Program on three themes: accession to the WTO, regional integration and national activities.
They also highlighted the International Islamic Trade Financial Corporation's (ITFC’s) contribution through initiatives such as Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States, Arab Africa Trade Bridge Program, Trade Knowledge Bridge Program, Youth Training and Employment for International Trade, ITFC Indonesian Coffee Export Development Program and the Trade Development Forum. ITFC trade financing approvals surpassed a record high of US$6 billion in 2015.
The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) has continued to support the private sector through its wide range of financing, investment and advisory services for approximately 2,000 small and medium enterprises, and the introduction of around 4,000 new businesses that created more than 55,000 private-sector jobs in member countries.
IsDB further updated on a new initiative for the development of transport geographic information system (GIS) software. The first phase of the project covers 11 member countries in the Euro-Asia sub-region and has been developed in cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.
IsDB further updated on a new initiative for the development of transport geographic information system (GIS) software. The first phase of the project covers 11 member countries in the Euro-Asia sub-region and has been developed in cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.
Saturday, 5 November 2016
Kuveyt Türk receives Turkey’s Leading Sukuk Issuer award for 2016
Kuveyt Türk has received the Turkey’s Leading Sukuk Issuer award for 2016 at the Capital Markets Awards held by the Turkish Capital Markets Association. The award was handed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Ufuk Uyan, CEO of Kuveyt Türk.
Kuveyt Türk issued 21 sukuk issuance of around 1 billion 524 thousand Turkish lira and three lease certificates totalling RM800 million to eligible investors in the country. It was also responsible for an the largest lease certificate issuance by value for an initial public offering by the private sector in Turkey in 2015.
Kuveyt Türk issued Tier-II sukuk of US$350 million in February; a domestic lease certificate of 300 million Turkish liras in May and international sukuk of US$500 million in October this year, becoming the largest sukuk issuer in Turkey in the process.
Ufuk Uyan, CEO, Kuveyt Türk said that they were pleased with the volume and diversity of the demand for sukuk. Emphasising that the sukuk issuance was the indication of international investors’ confidence in Kuveyt Türk, Uyan said, “This reveals...their appetite for taking the medium-long term risk (with) Kuveyt Türk and Turkey. In this respect, we are very pleased that we bring in new resources to our country.
Ufuk Uyan, CEO, Kuveyt Türk said that they were pleased with the volume and diversity of the demand for sukuk. Emphasising that the sukuk issuance was the indication of international investors’ confidence in Kuveyt Türk, Uyan said, “This reveals...their appetite for taking the medium-long term risk (with) Kuveyt Türk and Turkey. In this respect, we are very pleased that we bring in new resources to our country.
"It is seen that our issuance will serve as a benchmark for other overseas issues to take place in Turkey. As a matter of fact, when all the issues of other banks in 2016 are compared, this is the most successful issue in terms of the demand level and the cost. Ongoing development and improvement of investment banking and confidence of sukuk investors in the sector and our country as well as the strong equity structure and quality asset structure of Kuveyt Türk have become influential in successful closing of this issue.”
Kuveyt Türk issued 21 sukuk issuance of around 1 billion 524 thousand Turkish lira and three lease certificates totalling RM800 million to eligible investors in the country. It was also responsible for an the largest lease certificate issuance by value for an initial public offering by the private sector in Turkey in 2015.
Wednesday, 2 November 2016
Sukuk from Kuveyt Turk said to be the most successful Turkish issuance for 2016
Kuveyt Türk’s international sukuk issuance of US$500 million for a tenure of five years has become the most successful international capital markets issuance conducted in Turkey in 2016, said the bank which is 62% is owned by Kuwait Finance House.
The sukuk issuance was priced at a yield rate of 5.162%, and was oversubscribed four times. The issuance attracted more than 115 international investors from the Gulf, Europe and Asia, 61% of whom were from Gulf countries, and 12% from Asia.
Ufuk Uyan, GM, Kuveyt Türk said, “Just like our previous issues, the international investors have once again displayed their confidence toward Kuveyt Türk and their appetite for taking the medium-long term risk of Kuveyt Türk and Turkey. In this respect, we are very pleased that we bring in new resources to our country. It is seen that our issuance will serve as a benchmark for other overseas issues to take place in Turkey.
"As a matter of fact, when all the issues taken place in 2016 are compared, this is the most successful issue in terms of the demand level and the cost. Ongoing development and improvement of investment banking and confidence of sukuk investors in the sector and our country as well as the strong equity structure and quality asset structure of Kuveyt Türk have become influential in successful closing of this issue.”
Kuveyt Türk appointed KFH Capital as Global Coordinator, Bank ABC, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD Capital, KFH Capital, Noor Bank, Qinvest, and Standard Chartered Bank as Lead Arrangers/Bookrunners, as well as Al Rayan Investment and Warba Bank Co-Arrangers.
The sukuk issuance was priced at a yield rate of 5.162%, and was oversubscribed four times. The issuance attracted more than 115 international investors from the Gulf, Europe and Asia, 61% of whom were from Gulf countries, and 12% from Asia.
Ufuk Uyan, GM, Kuveyt Türk said, “Just like our previous issues, the international investors have once again displayed their confidence toward Kuveyt Türk and their appetite for taking the medium-long term risk of Kuveyt Türk and Turkey. In this respect, we are very pleased that we bring in new resources to our country. It is seen that our issuance will serve as a benchmark for other overseas issues to take place in Turkey.
"As a matter of fact, when all the issues taken place in 2016 are compared, this is the most successful issue in terms of the demand level and the cost. Ongoing development and improvement of investment banking and confidence of sukuk investors in the sector and our country as well as the strong equity structure and quality asset structure of Kuveyt Türk have become influential in successful closing of this issue.”
Kuveyt Türk appointed KFH Capital as Global Coordinator, Bank ABC, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD Capital, KFH Capital, Noor Bank, Qinvest, and Standard Chartered Bank as Lead Arrangers/Bookrunners, as well as Al Rayan Investment and Warba Bank Co-Arrangers.
Monday, 9 May 2016
Flynas codeshares with Pegasus Airlines to offer five new Turkey destinations
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| Source: flynas. Aerial view of Turkey. |
“Pegasus Airlines is Turkey’s leading private airline and brings a pedigree of over two decades of being at the forefront of innovation within the Turkish aviation landscape. Connecting with such a reputable domestic partner will allow us to offer a new level of convenience and connectivity to flynas guests travelling from KSA to experience Turkey and its many stunning attractions,” said Bander Al Mohanna, Group CEO of NAS Holding.
“The codeshare agreement with Pegasus Airlines reflects flynas’ continuing commitment to provide new routes and destinations to our guests.”
Pegasus Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Güliz Öztürk said: “As a result of this codeshare agreement all passengers travelling on Flynas’ network can book their flights on Flynas’ website flynas.com and through its sales agents to Trabzon, Ankara, Hatay, Adana and Antalya via Pegasus’ main hub at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport. We are delighted that this agreement that will contribute to the expansion of Pegasus’ regional influence, as well as presenting new opportunities for both airlines.”
Tuesday, 19 April 2016
Winners of the 14th IDB Prizes for Science and Technology are from Kuwait, Turkey and Bangladesh
Three scientific institutions have won this year’s 14th IDB Prizes for Science and Technology.
The 2016 winners, chosen by an independent committee are:
The 2016 winners, chosen by an independent committee are:
• Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KSIR): Overall Outstanding Contribution to Social and Economic Development
KSIR was selected for its scientific and technological contributions and accomplishments, which have had a positive impact on the socioeconomic development of Kuwait and other IDB member countries. Its research and scientific achievements are centred on enhanced oil exploration, innovative desalination, waste water treatment and zero liquid discharge. KISR’s technologies in these fields are being used in the region and around the world. KISR has a longstanding tradition of fostering young talent and promoting innovative scientific research.
"IDB is proud of their inspiring feats in the field of scientific and technological research. I hope other universities and scientific centres in member countries benefit from these admirable examples,” said
Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali, President of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Group.
The prize was established in 2002 (1422) to promote science and technology excellence and capacity building in IDB member countries. Each year, three institutions are selected by an independent panel of eminent scientists outside the bank to receive the prizes, which consist of US$100,000 and a trophy.
The award ceremony will be held at the 41st Annual Meeting of IDB’s Board of Governors, which will take place in Jakarta, Indonesia from 15 to 19 May.
KSIR was selected for its scientific and technological contributions and accomplishments, which have had a positive impact on the socioeconomic development of Kuwait and other IDB member countries. Its research and scientific achievements are centred on enhanced oil exploration, innovative desalination, waste water treatment and zero liquid discharge. KISR’s technologies in these fields are being used in the region and around the world. KISR has a longstanding tradition of fostering young talent and promoting innovative scientific research.
• NanoManyetik Bilimsel Cihazlar Sanayi ve Ticaret, Turkey: Most Outstanding Contribution in a Given Scientific Field
NanoManyetik Bilimsel Cihazlar Sanayi ve Ticaret was selected for its high quality of research and its commercial application in applied nanomagnetics. The company specialises in the development of sensing, measurements, characterisation and manipulation of nanosystems.
• Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture: Most Noted Scientific Institution from a Least Developed Member Country The Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture was selected for its outstanding contribution to the field of nuclear technologies in agriculture. The institute was established in 1961 to develop friendly nuclear technologies to enhance the performance of the agriculture sector, one of the major economic drivers in Bangladesh. It has a team of 170 scientists and researchers who focus on biotechnology and crop management. The team has published nearly 300 scientific research papers. The institute has successfully commercialised some of its technologies, with nearly 40 products on the market, and has close collaborations with many scientific institutions globally.
"IDB is proud of their inspiring feats in the field of scientific and technological research. I hope other universities and scientific centres in member countries benefit from these admirable examples,” said
Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali, President of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Group.
The prize was established in 2002 (1422) to promote science and technology excellence and capacity building in IDB member countries. Each year, three institutions are selected by an independent panel of eminent scientists outside the bank to receive the prizes, which consist of US$100,000 and a trophy.
The award ceremony will be held at the 41st Annual Meeting of IDB’s Board of Governors, which will take place in Jakarta, Indonesia from 15 to 19 May.
Sunday, 28 February 2016
Halal Tourism Conference 2016 set for May
The Halal Tourism Conference 2016 (HTC2016) will be hosted in Konya, Turkey from 3 to 5 May 2016 at the Mevlana Cultural Center.
A two-day conference is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates worldwide, including from tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and airlines. This year’s event will have an additional presence from Hajj and umrah providers, financial institutions, tourism project managers and consultants as well as all those who are keen to launch their brand to the growing Muslim travel market.
The three-day exhibition will open to the public on the final day. It will feature over 100 exhibitors.
Interested?
A two-day conference is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates worldwide, including from tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and airlines. This year’s event will have an additional presence from Hajj and umrah providers, financial institutions, tourism project managers and consultants as well as all those who are keen to launch their brand to the growing Muslim travel market.
The three-day exhibition will open to the public on the final day. It will feature over 100 exhibitors.
Interested?
Monday, 18 January 2016
KSA's Minister of Haj meets Turkish President of Religious Affairs
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| Source: Ministry of Haj, KSA. The Ministry of Haj meets with the Turkish delegation on Hajj 2016. |
Both countries are full members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Turkey has an eighty-million population. Muslims represent 98% of the population.
Dr Hajar focused on promoting pilgrims' awareness, before arriving in the KSA, of compliance with the ministry's instructions regarding the transportation programme for safety's sake. Currently, the KSA receives pilgrims annually from 180 countries who speak some 200 languages.
Turkey has a pilgrim quota of 95,200 this year.
Interested?
Read the Suroor Asia blog post about the Ministry of Haj's overview of Hajj 2016
During the meeting, Dr Bandar noted the plan adopted to coordinate with Offices of Pilgrim Affairs which will enable the preparations and needs of the Republic of Turkey pilgrims coming to perform Hajj. The organisation of Turkish pilgrims, their housing and transportation, and the services provided to them by Arbab Al-Tawaif Establishments, the Unified Agents Office, and General Cars Syndicate were discussed.
Dr Hajar focused on promoting pilgrims' awareness, before arriving in the KSA, of compliance with the ministry's instructions regarding the transportation programme for safety's sake. Currently, the KSA receives pilgrims annually from 180 countries who speak some 200 languages.
His Highness the Turkish President of Religious Affairs in turn praised the major projects at the Two Holy Mosques, Makkah, and Madinah, that the government has executed to enable a tranquil, serene and solemn atmosphere for the pilgrims. His Highness also praised the organisation and cooperation of the Ministry of Haj and all relevant concerned authorities with Turkey's Office of Pilgrim Affairs, and concluded with wishes that 1437 will be a successful year.
Turkey has a pilgrim quota of 95,200 this year.
Interested?
Read the Suroor Asia blog post about the Ministry of Haj's overview of Hajj 2016
Saturday, 2 January 2016
IDB approves financing for projects in four member countries
The Board of Executive Directors of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has approved financing for new and ongoing projects during its 309th meeting in Jeddah, KSA.
Four member countries – Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Pakistan and Turkey – will receive US$466.4 million for development projects:
Four member countries – Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Pakistan and Turkey – will receive US$466.4 million for development projects:
• US$273 million to reconstruct the Aktobe-Makat Road project in Kazakhstan
• US$90 million to assist the polio eradication programme (2016 to 2018) in Pakistan
• US$82 million to support the Konya PPP Hospital project in Turkey
• US$20.7 million to construct the Bir-Al Hith Qartaba Road (phase III) in Lebanon
The agenda for the 41st Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors slated for 18 to 19 May 2016 in Jakarta, Indonesia, was also approved.
• US$90 million to assist the polio eradication programme (2016 to 2018) in Pakistan
• US$82 million to support the Konya PPP Hospital project in Turkey
• US$20.7 million to construct the Bir-Al Hith Qartaba Road (phase III) in Lebanon
The agenda for the 41st Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors slated for 18 to 19 May 2016 in Jakarta, Indonesia, was also approved.
Sunday, 20 December 2015
Socialbakers reveals Indonesia's and Turkey's most popular eateries on Facebook
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| Source: Socialbakers website. |
The fastest-growing restaurant and cafe Facebook pages in Indonesia include The Duck King, Potato Head Garage, and Kudeta, according to Socialbakers, which tracks and benchmarks social media profiles across major social platforms. The most popular Facebook pages for dining in Indonesia are Excelso Coffee, with nearly 52,000 fans, Kudeta with over 44,500 and The Duck King Group with over 10,500.
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| Source: Socialbakers website. |
For Turkey, the fastest growing dining-related Facebook pages include KasapDoner, WOW Bodrum Resort and Anjelique. The most popular pages are Melekler Kahvesi with 294,600+ fans, Karakoy Gulluoglu with 78,000 fans and WOW Bodrum Resort with just under 78,000 fans.
Interested?
View the latest Socialbaker statistics for restaurants and cafes in Indonesia and in Turkey
Read reviews of Melekler Kahvesi
Thursday, 17 December 2015
Emirates launches flights to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Istanbul
Emirates has launched daily flights to Istanbul with new flights to a second Istanbul gateway, Sabiha Gökçen Airport, for a total of 18 flights per week. Emirates’ new daily service to Sabiha Gökçen will also offer up to 12 tonnes of cargo per day in each direction.
The new daily flight is operated by an Airbus A330-200 aircraft in a three-class configuration offering 12 seats in First Class, 42 seats in Business Class, and 183 seats in Economy Class. Emirates flight EK119 will depart Dubai at 17:15 and arrive in at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Istanbul at 20:15 daily. The return flight EK120 will leave Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Istanbul at 22:05, arriving in Dubai at 04:20 the next day. As with all Emirates flights, passengers enjoy baggage allowances of 50kg in first class, 40kg in business class and with 30 kg in economy class.
Istanbul is Emirates’ third international city to benefit from a dual airport operation, following London and Tokyo. In addition to the daily flight to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Emirates also operates 11 weekly flights to Istanbul Atatürk Airport.
The new daily flight is operated by an Airbus A330-200 aircraft in a three-class configuration offering 12 seats in First Class, 42 seats in Business Class, and 183 seats in Economy Class. Emirates flight EK119 will depart Dubai at 17:15 and arrive in at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Istanbul at 20:15 daily. The return flight EK120 will leave Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Istanbul at 22:05, arriving in Dubai at 04:20 the next day. As with all Emirates flights, passengers enjoy baggage allowances of 50kg in first class, 40kg in business class and with 30 kg in economy class.
Istanbul is Emirates’ third international city to benefit from a dual airport operation, following London and Tokyo. In addition to the daily flight to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Emirates also operates 11 weekly flights to Istanbul Atatürk Airport.
Located on the Asian side of the bi-continental city of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport offers travellers convenient access to the city’s cultural and historical sites. Passengers heading to the European side of Istanbul can take advantage of regular coaches that operate between Sabiha Gokcen and Taksim Square every half hour, taking approximately 45 minutes.
“We have been operating flights to Istanbul for more than 28 years and in that time have seen demand for our services grow exponentially. We are confident that both the passenger and cargo demand (are) strong enough to warrant Emirates operating to both of Istanbul’s airports,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Strategic Planning, Revenue Optimisation and Aeropolitical Affairs.
“As well as providing our passengers with greater flexibility in their travel plans to and from Turkey this new flight also signifies the introduction of First Class to our flights to Istanbul. There is high demand for this route and we are already seeing strong booking levels across all cabin classes from across our network.”
Gökhan Buğday, the CEO of Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport said, “With the launch of Emirates new daily flight we now have 51 airlines operating from our rapidly growing airport. This year we expect 28 million passengers to fly through Sabiha Gökçen and Emirates’ launch signifies yet another important and exciting milestone for us.”
The UAE and Turkey enjoy a strong trade relationship that is estimated to reach US$15 billion this year. There are currently more than 500 Turkish companies operating out of the UAE, including a number of Turkish construction companies who have played a key role in the construction of many of the buildings that make up Dubai’s skyline.
“We have been operating flights to Istanbul for more than 28 years and in that time have seen demand for our services grow exponentially. We are confident that both the passenger and cargo demand (are) strong enough to warrant Emirates operating to both of Istanbul’s airports,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Strategic Planning, Revenue Optimisation and Aeropolitical Affairs.
“As well as providing our passengers with greater flexibility in their travel plans to and from Turkey this new flight also signifies the introduction of First Class to our flights to Istanbul. There is high demand for this route and we are already seeing strong booking levels across all cabin classes from across our network.”
Gökhan Buğday, the CEO of Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport said, “With the launch of Emirates new daily flight we now have 51 airlines operating from our rapidly growing airport. This year we expect 28 million passengers to fly through Sabiha Gökçen and Emirates’ launch signifies yet another important and exciting milestone for us.”
The UAE and Turkey enjoy a strong trade relationship that is estimated to reach US$15 billion this year. There are currently more than 500 Turkish companies operating out of the UAE, including a number of Turkish construction companies who have played a key role in the construction of many of the buildings that make up Dubai’s skyline.
Sunday, 29 November 2015
IDB proposes Turkey-related partnerships
The President of Islamic Development Bank (IDB), Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali has made several proposals that will enhance partnerships between IDB, the Republic of Turkey and any member country that wishes to benefit from the successes of Turkey.
The proposals were in Istanbul, Turkey, at the opening ceremony of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC) of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation's (OIC's) 31st ministerial session.
Besides a tripartite agreement between IDB Group, Turkey and any IDB member country, Dr Ahmad suggested the establishment of a programme for the effective implementation and operationalisation of trade related agreements similar to the Trade Preferential System among the Member States of the OIC (TPS-OIC). Thirdly, he called for the enhancement of transcontinental regional corridors such as the Trans-Sahara Corridor (Trans-Africa Corridor). Fourthly, he suggested the need to study the effect of major regional blocs on intra-OIC trade and regional integration.
The Secretary General of the OIC Iyad Madani commended OIC member countries for an increase in intra-OIC trade. He said the volume of trade has increased from 18.64% in 2013 as a percentage of total global trade transactions to 19.33% in 2014.
The proposals were in Istanbul, Turkey, at the opening ceremony of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC) of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation's (OIC's) 31st ministerial session.
Besides a tripartite agreement between IDB Group, Turkey and any IDB member country, Dr Ahmad suggested the establishment of a programme for the effective implementation and operationalisation of trade related agreements similar to the Trade Preferential System among the Member States of the OIC (TPS-OIC). Thirdly, he called for the enhancement of transcontinental regional corridors such as the Trans-Sahara Corridor (Trans-Africa Corridor). Fourthly, he suggested the need to study the effect of major regional blocs on intra-OIC trade and regional integration.
The Secretary General of the OIC Iyad Madani commended OIC member countries for an increase in intra-OIC trade. He said the volume of trade has increased from 18.64% in 2013 as a percentage of total global trade transactions to 19.33% in 2014.
posted from Bloggeroid
Thursday, 12 November 2015
IDB approves new financing for projects around the world
The 308th meeting of the Members of the Board of Executive Directors (BED) of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has resulted in approvals for US$593.5 million of new financing for development projects in countries such as Kazakhstan and Turkey.
US$478,000 was also approved in grants from the IDB Waqf Fund for three educational and vocational projects to benefit Muslim communities in three non-member countries, including Singapore.
The approved financing includes US$249.5 million towards the rehabilitation of irrigation and drainage in Kazakhstan aimed at enhancing agriculture and reducing the import of foodstuffs. Other financing approved include US$59 million as extra funding for an electric locomotive project (2TU-0148) project in Turkey, which brings the total financing for this project to a total of US$278.9 million.
Wednesday, 11 November 2015
Joint Qatari-Turkish art exhibition at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums in November, December
The Visual Arts Department of the Qatar Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage has organised Gallery (10 * 10) at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums from 18 November to 11 December 2015, the Qatar News Agency has reported.
The exhibition, part of the ongoing celebrations of the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture, will feature the work of ten Qatari and ten Turkish artists. Qatar's Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, HE Dr. Hamad bin Abdul Aziz Al Kuwari, was quoted as saying that the meaning of communication between peoples requires the exchange of human cultures and all forms of fine arts.
The Qatar artists taking part in the exhibition are Ahmed Al Hamar, Ahmed Nooh, Jameela Al Ansari, Jawaher Al Mannai, Hassan Al Mulla, Dana Safar, Ali Al Mulla, Mohammed Al Atiq and Hanadi Al Darwish, while the artists from Turkey are Asim Yucesoa, Hekmat Astanakaya, Saban Tuncer, Kameel Aslanger, Sauna Giorschew Konishlo, Haluk Hatpoglo, Celine Singer Gul, Fateeh Kahya, Nuray Karrapo Lott and Ahmed Sula.
Monday, 26 October 2015
Islamic finance key to helping SMEs grow
In his opening remarks at the International SMEs Conference, held within the framework of the G20 meetings taking place in Istanbul under the Turkish Presidency, the President of the Republic of Turkey HE Recep Tayyip Erdogan praised the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Group for supporting the Islamic banking industry in Turkey, noting that the Group contributed US$570 million this year to finance the construction of the country’s Vakifbank, and to provide a credit line to the Export Credit Bank of Turkey to promote SMEs in Turkey and support their competitiveness in global markets.
Said IDB Group President, Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali: "SMEs create jobs and foster growth, contribute to political stability and make a significant dent
on poverty in every country. Statistics show that SMEs contribute to an estimated 43.5% of the total job opportunities created at international level, a figure that can increase to 57.8% worldwide.”
The IDB Group President also commended the Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI) and the World Bank’s Global Islamic Finance Development Center for their joint work that contributed to a flagship report, Leveraging Islamic Finance for SMEs. "I also envisage that this report will bring significant benefits to G20 constituencies, as well as other developing countries, who are interested in leveraging the Islamic financial services industry for stimulating SMEs,” Dr Ahmad said.
“The major challenge faced by SMEs is access to financing. The need to deal with this challenge better highlights the significance of recognising the potentials of Islamic finance which can greatly contribute to development of SMEs as it helps in promotion of collective cooperation for the sake of production and investment.”
In his conclusion, Dr Ahmad called for the establishment of a working group to exchange expertise and develop innovative Islamic financial instruments.
Said IDB Group President, Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali: "SMEs create jobs and foster growth, contribute to political stability and make a significant dent
on poverty in every country. Statistics show that SMEs contribute to an estimated 43.5% of the total job opportunities created at international level, a figure that can increase to 57.8% worldwide.”
The IDB Group President also commended the Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI) and the World Bank’s Global Islamic Finance Development Center for their joint work that contributed to a flagship report, Leveraging Islamic Finance for SMEs. "I also envisage that this report will bring significant benefits to G20 constituencies, as well as other developing countries, who are interested in leveraging the Islamic financial services industry for stimulating SMEs,” Dr Ahmad said.
“The major challenge faced by SMEs is access to financing. The need to deal with this challenge better highlights the significance of recognising the potentials of Islamic finance which can greatly contribute to development of SMEs as it helps in promotion of collective cooperation for the sake of production and investment.”
In his conclusion, Dr Ahmad called for the establishment of a working group to exchange expertise and develop innovative Islamic financial instruments.
The event was organised by the World Bank, the IDB Group, the Turkish Prime Ministry’s Under-secretariat for Treasury, as well as the country’s industrialists and businessmen's association (TUMSIAD).
Monday, 31 August 2015
International Conference on Islamic Economics and Finance to be held this September
The 2nd International Conference on Islamic Economics and Finance (IIEFC) will be organised by İstanbul Sabahattin Zaim University International Research and Study Centre of Islamic Economics and Finance (IZU-ISEFAM) in collaboration with Participation Banks Association of Turkey (TKBB), the World Bank Global Islamic Finance Development Center and Borsa İstanbul from 11 to 13 September 2015 at the headquarters of İstanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, in Istanbul, Turkey.
The conference aims to satisfy the need for an institutional approach to Islamic economics and finance in Turkey, and to further research. The agenda includes:
The conference aims to satisfy the need for an institutional approach to Islamic economics and finance in Turkey, and to further research. The agenda includes:
Islamic economics and history;
Islamic finance;
Islamic insurance (takaful);
Islamic financial instruments;
Islamic commercial law.
Islamic finance;
Islamic insurance (takaful);
Islamic financial instruments;
Islamic commercial law.
Thursday, 25 June 2015
Two Turkish destinations are in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice 2015
The top 25 TripAdvisor destinations in the world for 2015 include three in Muslim countries.
Turkey is the only country with two locations listed, Istanbul (no. 3) and Goreme (no. 14) while no. 24 is Dubai, UAE.
And for Dubai, TripAdvisor reviewers say not to miss the Dubai Fountains, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, and the Burj Al Arab.
Interested?
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| Source: TripAdvisor website. Istanbul. |
Turkey is the only country with two locations listed, Istanbul (no. 3) and Goreme (no. 14) while no. 24 is Dubai, UAE.
If visiting Istanbul, TripAdvisor recommends visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque, the Kariye Museum, and the Sultanahmet District.
And for Dubai, TripAdvisor reviewers say not to miss the Dubai Fountains, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, and the Burj Al Arab.
Interested?
Tuesday, 9 June 2015
Taj Mahal, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre and Hagia Sofia Museum among top landmarks globally
TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice for the top 25 landmarks include three with Islamic history:
Ranked no. 3 is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. The memorial, built by the 5th Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (1592 – 1666) to house the grave of his wife Mumtaz Mahal (also named Arjumand Banu Begum, 1593 - 1631), is considered the best of example of Mughal architecture, which combines elements from Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It received an 'excellent' rating from 8,807 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 1,329 reviewers, out of a total of 10,515 reviews.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi, the UAE is no. 4. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is visible from the three main bridges connecting Abu Dhabi island to the mainland, and aims to highlight the heritage of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The late Sheikh, first President of the UAE, is buried beside the mosque. It received an 'excellent' rating from 7,269 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 1,037 reviewers, out of a total of 8,476 reviews.
At no. 15 is the Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul, Turkey. This building was first used as a church for 916 years, then converted into a mosque following the conquest of Istanbul by Fatih Sultan Mehmed. The Hagia Sophia remained a mosque for 482 years and was turned into a museum by the order of Atatürk and the Council of Ministers in 1935. It received an 'excellent' rating from 1,302 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 3,821 reviewers, out of a total of 17,957 reviews.
Interested?
View TripAdvisor's top 25 landmarks
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| Source: Taj Mahal website. |
Ranked no. 3 is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. The memorial, built by the 5th Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (1592 – 1666) to house the grave of his wife Mumtaz Mahal (also named Arjumand Banu Begum, 1593 - 1631), is considered the best of example of Mughal architecture, which combines elements from Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It received an 'excellent' rating from 8,807 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 1,329 reviewers, out of a total of 10,515 reviews.
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| Source: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre website. |
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi, the UAE is no. 4. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is visible from the three main bridges connecting Abu Dhabi island to the mainland, and aims to highlight the heritage of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The late Sheikh, first President of the UAE, is buried beside the mosque. It received an 'excellent' rating from 7,269 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 1,037 reviewers, out of a total of 8,476 reviews.
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| Source: Hagia Sophia Museum website. |
At no. 15 is the Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul, Turkey. This building was first used as a church for 916 years, then converted into a mosque following the conquest of Istanbul by Fatih Sultan Mehmed. The Hagia Sophia remained a mosque for 482 years and was turned into a museum by the order of Atatürk and the Council of Ministers in 1935. It received an 'excellent' rating from 1,302 TripAdvisor reviewers, and a 'very good' rating from another 3,821 reviewers, out of a total of 17,957 reviews.
Interested?
View TripAdvisor's top 25 landmarks
Monday, 4 May 2015
500 years of Turkish Coffee remembered at the Topkapi Palace Museum
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| Source: Topkapi Palace Museum website. |
The exhibition is on till June 15 2015, and was inspired by the entry of Turkish coffee culture and tradition into the UNESCO "Non-Material Heritage" list in 2013.
The museum separately announced that the first and third halls of the Treasury Section will be closed to visitors till August 14, 2015 for restoration.
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