First Impression
A word from the Editor-in-Chief
The story of Bahrain is a remarkable tale of human
endeavor, enterprise and determination. Built on inherent
strengths and a keen sense of identity, overcoming
obstacles both natural and man-made, this National Day
is a tribute to the vision and courage of our leaders and
the people of Bahrain. Forty years ago Bahrain gained
independent status and since then the country has
witnessed remarkable progress which has seen Bahrain
develop into a modern and vibrant member of the GCC.
The dynamic country we live in today is undoubtedly the
result of years of hard work and sacrifice, and the success
that we have achieved is a testament to their determination
to overcome all challenges to take our nation forward. We
enter the 40th year of our independence inspired, resolute
and unwavering in our commitment that we will allow
nothing to neither mar our unity nor taint our centuries-long
record of achievement.
Durrah was especially honored to be granted an
interview with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin
Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme
Commander. His Royal Highness talks about the interaction
of the Royal family with Bahraini families who have over
generations stood by their country and its leadership,
safeguarding the interests of this nation and protecting its
assets and achievements. Communication and interaction
is something that His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
has always practiced, traits that have distinguished the
Bahraini leadership, and set the tone for the country known
for its spirit of brotherliness and understanding. Through
the revered and long-standing Majalis tradition, senior
figures in Bahrain communicate and interact with society,
discussing public affairs and creating greater understanding
and transparency. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has
continued the tradition, which has become of even greater
importance today. It is to his great credit that His Royal
Highness stressed on many occasions the importance of
dialogue and consensus to maintain national unity. Make
sure you read the interview with this dynamic Crown
Prince whose youth belies his wisdom and maturity.
Surging over a kilometer into the sky, Jeddah’s Kingdom
Tower is set to be the world’s tallest building and the new
global benchmark after Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Chicago based
architecture firm AS+GG, who have already pegged up
some of the tallest buildings in the world to their account,
are responsible for the stunning design. Coming close on
the heels of their success with Burj Khalifa, the expectations
are higher now. Not an easy record to beat especially when
you are doing it twice, but the key issue in the design of
these superstructures is wind resistance. Adrian Smith talks
to us about the challenges and the vision.
The place to be this New Year is Abu Dhabi when the
Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team proudly takes its place
alongside fellow competitors in the Abu Dhabi stage of
the Volvo Ocean Race. Organized by Abu Dhabi Tourism
Authority (ADTA), and kicking off on December 31, the twoweek
long festival promises to be a memorable experience.
Having gone on to claim victory in the first in-port race, the
11-strong crew, led by skipper Ian Walker, can expect a
massive reception when they arrive at Abu Dhabi’s state-ofthe-
art Yas Marina this New Year.
There’s much more to read in the pages that follow
- fascinating personalities, the best of art and design,
technology at its sharpest and venerated traditions carried
proudly through generations. We present you the last issue
of the year in true Durrah style - luxury and a touch of class.
Wishing all of you an exciting and inspiring entry into
the New Year.
Khalid A. Juman
Editor-in-Chief