A chapter of my book -- "Inside The Box, from another perspective"

On November 18, 2007, Tecom, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding shut down the Pakistani-owned private TV channels, Geo TV and ARY TV. On October 23, 2008, DJ Revin John, who hosted the morning show on Virgin Radio, was fired for having a fake conversation with god. In another instance, MTV Arabia was heavily criticized by the religious Saudi community for airing a documentary described as “rebellious” (Habib, 2010). Put the reasons for these actions aside and ask yourself, why did Geo TV, ARY TV, Virgin Radio and MTV Arabia decide to broadcast from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in the first place? The GCC is an agreement made between the six Arab states with the aim of promoting political power and boosting relationship agreements.

The United Arab Emirates, has become an extremely multi cultural country that boasts a variety of nationalities, cultures, traditions and religions. The UAE has rapidly transformed from desert to a bustling multicultural modern country. Dubai, the country’s largest city, has become famous worldwide.  Aside from being a popular tourist destination, Dubai is also the leading business hub in the region with world-class facilities and numerous opportunities. Geographically, the UAE is located between the Far East and Europe, which makes it a suitable base for many international companies. In recent years, other GCC countries have shown signs of following in the footsteps of UAE. Dubai has developed quickly and is still expanding. This immense development has brought tremendous income and wealth to the region. Although, the region was already enjoying great wealth from its supply of oil and natural gas, its focus on development has caused it thrive more. Depending on oil and natural gas as a resource forever was not an option, so the leaders decided to develop a tourism industry in Dubai. Enormous projects started to come forward in UAE. A variety of first class hotels were built alongside the golden sandy beaches. Similarly, elegant and enormous shopping malls that boast a diversity of multinational first class fashions were set up. As a result, the tourists and wealth flooded in rapidly. Due to the massive construction projects, a tremendous amount of labor was required. Companies and factories from all over the world began investing in the country and moving to Dubai. Many business sectors grew, and as a result, the country’s population changed from a small national group to a large and growing multicultural one. Much like New York, the UAE became the second melting pot metaphor.

 With this the variety of nationalities and cultural backgrounds of its residents, the government knew that certain laws had to be changed or adjusted. Foreigners can not call Dubai home if they find it difficult to live comfortably in, and the best way to help with this is through media. With its media, the country was able to illustrate that it was not as conservative as many believed it to be. The first article laws that were relaxed were media laws; the government was more lenient in allowing media freedom in what to broadcast. So it was evident that UAE’s government was sometimes forced to turn a blind eye on some minor issues in order to continue opening doors for foreign investment and attracting tourists.

Many foreign media companies saw great opportunity in expanding their business in the Middle East. The UAE is currently a tax free state with a strong economic outlook. In addition, the country offers free zones with benefits ranging from exemption of import duties and the opportunity to set up wholly-owned ventures. As per UAE’s trading law, aimed at preserving the Emirati’s nationality powers, a business needs the 51% ownership to be local. Dubai officially inaugurated Dubai Media City (DMC) and Dubai Idea Oasis (DIO), investing more than a billion Dirhams (USD 274,700,000), creating similar opportunities for media companies. The organizations willing to be included in these projects are exempted from UAE media laws, which normally prohibit broadcasting programs that include sexual content and politics. Some media companies that have moved to the UAE are CNN, Reuters, Microsoft, Oracle and Zen TV (who are known to broadcast “taboo” subjects). This has created an emerging local market for media projects as well and the potential to create Emirati programming in both English and Arabic is great. A few projects such as Freej have met with tremendous success. Freej, meaning neighborhood, is a well-known 3D animation cartoon series that tells the tales of old Emirati women living in the Dubai the way we know it today. Though not known nationally, a similar reality show called Hydra Executives, which is very similar to The Apprentice except that it is not famous worldwide and is viewed by the public as a publicity act in favor of Hydra Real estate. Producer Ali Mustafa surprised the UAE with its very first Emirati bilingual film City Of Life, the story revolves around three parallel lives: The lives of a fortunate son of a rich UAE businessman alongside his less unfortunate street friend, a disillusioned Indian taxi driver who resembles a famous Bollywood actor and a Romanian flight attendant looking for love. Their lives all collide at some point in the movie creating an interesting plot. However, this movie plot is not something a movie buff has never seen, probably because its ideas have been borrowed from the Hollywood-produced Crash.

We’ve seen the UAE’s take in a reality show and a movie, but how would one rate its own English-spoken news channel? Dubai One, previously called Channel 33, launched in the last month of 2004 and offers news around the UAE in English. The targeted audiences are the expats who call the UAE home and even affected the local nationals by westernizing them. They also appeal to the Indian community by showing a Bollywood movie once every month.

Resist The Power!  Is a documentary that depicts a woman in her twenties trying to sell colored abayas (Habib, 2010). As well know, the traditional color is black, however, it is not an Islamic rule to forbid different colors of the abaya. Afghanistan is also a very religious nation that requires for women to be fully covered by law, however, the traditional color worn there is blue rather than black. The problem may be that the majority of the community got used to women dressing in black and not everyone is open to change.

Many companies have significant reasons for moving to the UAE but Pakistani broadcasters, Geo TV and ARY TV, moved to Dubai to escape the changing laws and regulations placed upon them by the Pakistani government. MTV Arabia, who has a fan base of 32 million people, aired the documentary Resist the Power!, which featured different people breaking Saudi Arabia’s law as to resemble western habits and traditions. Take for instance Aziz, a young man who “dreams of meeting a woman with whom he started flirting with online” (Habib, 2010). However, Saudi Arabia prohibits men and women to meet in public or private if they are not blood related or married. Some may argue that this law exists solely in the kingdom, however, it also exists in almost all the GCC countries. What differs is that other governments choose not to implement this law strictly.

Part of MTV’s aim is to encourage music fans to seek music as a career. Resist The Power! also featured a band trying to find a venue that would allow them to play music regarded as “Satanist” (Habib, 2010). In the west, this idea of a band not able to find a venue in which to play would have been interesting, because in regards to the west, no laws exist to prohibit or support Satanism. However, in countries like the UAE, it receives nothing but negative remarks and harsh criticism.

We could all agree on how women all around the world have been taking on jobs that were once dominated by males. In the Saudi Arabia, women are legally banned from driving any vehicle yet. MTV Arabia aired another episode which featured a Saudi girl driving through the streets disguised in male clothing.

It would seem like a huge risk for MTV to air this documentary because it could result in shutting down the station. When MTV first started broadcasting in the UAE in October 2007, it had the help of AMG (Arabian Media Group), which is the biggest media group in the UAE. With other international ventures, the company expected success, despite the UAE having more than 50 music television channels already available to TV viewers. Part of this success was expected because MTV wasn’t positioning itself as a music channel, instead, MTV’s managing director, Singh, claimed the network is a place for young peoples’ self expression. Having done his research, Singh claims that the other music channels weren’t reflecting what young people are thinking, feeling and experiencing. The documentary was actually airing what these young people were feeling and doing rather than encouraging those rebellious ideas and actions. People generally do not understand what MTV is all about, instead of realizing that it is a place for the underground music industry (music not getting radio-attention) to be heard, they tend to think it’s a channel where the young imitate what they see.

During Ramadan, MTV Arabia continues to air international shows, whereas music videos are postponed until the end of the fasting period. This move also received criticism from viewers claiming that their freedom of choice was being invaded. However, these critics fail to realize that MTV is taking part in a business technique called adaption. MTV has many bases around the globe: MTV Europe, MTV Arabia, MTV India etc. What MTV Europe airs may not be suitable for a Middle Eastern audience; similarly what MTV Arabia airs may be unappealing to some other parts of the world. A certain dating show that  is aired by MTV Europe would definitely not be welcomed by the Arab community for religious and cultural reasons. And for these reasons, MTV Arabia also airs Arabic versions of American Idol and many popular shows. Viewers must keep in mind that although Dubai is considered to be an open community, it still has its boundaries. The government has illustrated this clearly by firing DJ Revin John, as mentioned earlier. Revin John, who hosted the morning show on Virgin Radio, made ‘offensive’ comments as he pretended to have a conversion with God. It is important to have such a case in point, otherwise, neighboring countries would criticize the UAE as a whole.

Part of MTV Arabia’s adaption includes broadcasting a higher number of Arabic music and shows. Not only does this make the channel more engaging to Arab viewers, but it also makes viewers feel important as they watch and listen to artists from their own culture rather than only the western ones.

There is no doubt that the effect of globalization has taken place in the Middle East. With television media playing an incredible role in the evolution of GCC countries, their traditions are starting to be quite similar to that of the west’s. Nevertheless, it is vital to take in to consideration that although the governments were being lenient with some laws it was made clear that there were obvious boundaries that are not to be crossed. This would be the boundary between what is slightly frowned upon and what is absolutely not acceptable in Islam. Using the various television channels, the UAE was able to portray just how liberal it is while keeping its conservative values, and therefore attract many foreigners.

Sources

Tecom Investments (2006) In the online Tecom Investments website. Retrieved from http://www.tecom.ae/

Expanding Your Business (n.d.). In the online Definitely Dubai Website (the official tourism website). Retrieved from http://www.definitelydubai.com/here-business/expanding-your-business-0

GEO TV mulls moving out of Dubai (n.d.). In the online Express India website. Retrieved from http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/GEO-TV-mulls-moving-out-of-Dubai/240600/

United Arab Emirates (n.d.). In the online Press Reference Website. Retrieved from http://www.pressreference.com/Sw-Ur/United-Arab-Emirates.html

Qatar Tribune (n.d.) Retrieved from

http://www.qatar-tribune.com/data/20100603/content.asp?section=gulf1_2

Take Your Chances

"You'll always miss 100% of the chances you don't take" - Sometimes, it could be a blessing to behave as if we were animals. Ask me why.

Earlier this afternoon, as I sat on a boat sailing to a an island off the coast of Istanbul, nibbling on a pretzel. Knowing my tiny stomach, it was no surprise I had to share the rest of it with my fellow seagulls.

For a minute there, I giggled as I watched them fight over and AGAINST each other for that little piece of bread. It was only when my next-level-imagination took me further that I realized what kind of superhuman I could be if my actions were laid out in a parrarel manner.

We humans tend to give up only after a couple of shots we take. We lack the sense of greed seen in the picture. The greed we need to get ourselves to where we want to be.

Just like the seagulls, we all have goals. Goals may be realistic or sort of fictional. Whatever it may be, you'll only miss ALL the chances you don't take. I've seen most, if not, all of my friends whine and complain about not being where they want to be. I myself seem to have aced that course - procrastination 101.

Today, I am no longer wasting time dreaming. Instead, I'm still dreaming with dates as deadlines. That my friends, is my definition of a GOAL.

Sincerely,

Recently named co-author

Things Could Have Been A Lot Worse

Whether it’s crying after failing an exam or breaking up with your partner; we share the similar feeling. The sensation that makes us feel it’s the end of the world.

A week ago I got in trouble with the police and will be judged in court soon. After feeling bad for days and not being able to take my mind off it, a close friend of mine ... THINGS COULD BE HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE M7MD.

 

Thinking about it, I realized that we seldom stop and think about the poor and the less fortunate. Yes you maybe be in the middle of a break up but it is NOT the end of the world. Ever thought of people dying from starvation? We seldom thank God for having more than three meals a day ! Believe it or not, your partner right now will MOST probably be gone in a year or so. I maybe mistaken but based on my past experiences, it never lasts. THINGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

How often do we feel bad after taking a test ? I can only recall one particular exam which brought tears to my eyes. Studying for days on end and all I got was an F. But did I stop and think about those sitting at home doing nothing? What about those that dream of having a degree? Screw that, what about those 25 year olds still trying to get their diploma? THINGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

We tend to focus on the negative aspects of life rather than appreciate the blessings sent down to us.

We complain about having a slow Internet connection but what about those who are computer illiterate? THINGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

We complain on the subject of traffic jams when we’re sitting in an air-conditioned German car. Look outside and count the number of people walking and actually crossing the bridge from National paints to Dubai. ON FOOT. THINGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

Whatever your situation, the key to getting over it is appreciation. Appreciate the fact that you have your own room, your own bed to sleep on, your own bathroom, your own privacy. Not many people have that. Again, whatever your situation, THNGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

I’m not trying to preach and have no right to whatsoever but considering my case, I got over it simply by appreciating the good things I have right now. Worrying for days will not make things better but appreciating the “little” things in life will certainly draw a smile across my face.

I hope many of you relate to this. Don’t ever think it’s the end of the world; because THINGS COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE.

Sincerely,

M7mdAA

P.S. This may explain my brief absence from Twitter. I’m open to questions, just not subject related J

How to make a waste of money and shame Dad in 365 days !

That “uneasy” feeling in your stomach when something’s not right? For me , it’s different . I wake up to it almost everyday . Why? Many reasons that are more or less my responsibility, I admit. But it shouldn’t be disclosed this early in my relationship with Blogger.

Even though the “life problems” as I call it are always there , I came across last week’s “episode” which I can’t get over – just yet. I can’t help beating myself up every time I tell myself “Its ok”. Instead of making this blog my punching bag , I’m allowing MYSELF to be humiliated , hoping the ground would open up and swallow me. Mind you , I have learned my lesson so please , no lecture-like comments , not that I can’t face it , its just that I THINK , I just MIGHT THINK that I may already have heard them from the parents or MAYBE , JUST MAYBE I still am beating myself up !

Here goes :

A)  I recently had to get my car registration renewed . The procedure is as follows :

Vehicle check

Pay fines

Pay renewal fees

Guess where little mister M7md had a problem . Nah , its not likely that people who value life would have guessed it , because unlike me , no one should exist if they had the heart to pay out AED 14,500 in traffic fines (EDITED : AED 16,500) ! I mean , I could have used that to buy the iMac or even better the Mac Pro that I’ve always wanted . Let’s not forget charity work that I never seem to “commit to memory” at the start of the month but wishful thinking still plays it’s role at the end of it !

No , seriously , let’s be real . I won’t sit my ass down and feed you with lies about not meaning to speed or “not seeing the speed camera” . C’mon, obviously speed cameras are like cockroaches infesting a prison cell (with respect to Dubai): I SHOULDN’T BE SPEEDING TO START WITH! . Truth is, I have this tendency to push my life into danger. Being late to the movies draws a smile on my face right before I hear the V12 come to life ; just so that I have that “excuse” in handy . You know, the whole adrenaline rush obsession. On a side note, if there were anyone in the human race that car manufacturers would hire just to advertise the cruise control system, it would be ME. I lost track of how many times trend-followers, thinking only German cars are equipped with, had to be shown how the system works!

I “thought” I had a few fines but never expected a 5-digit upgrade from last year. That’s right, during last year’s renewal, only AED400 made its way out of my wallet. It’s a hard pill to swallow but I blame it on having one car at the time. My Dad forever fed me with lectures when it came to driving. It’s a shame how I never saw the light at the end of the tunnel before this point, not even after two totaled cars.

Dad said, “It wouldn’t be such a smart idea to get you behind the wheel of your dream car, which is due in a semester’s time”.

Go figure.

Excuses are excuses: The conscience can only handle so much before living with the person in the mirror SUCKS! . That being said, I promise and I mean PROMISE, not a camera flash. Not a single fils. Watch this space next year J

P.S. In no way does this post carry the intention of revealing personal financial matters nor does it aim to underestimate the intelligence of my fellow readers. It does, however, carry the message of how LUCKY you readers are. Lucky, you don’t possess the male-human-inclination of stepping on the pedal. 

1947 or 2011 ?

It's hard to believe '2011' . As the years pass by , it seems as if people's minds have been programmed to follow the islamic calendar . Don't get me wrong , I was born a Muslim but let's be real : Do I really follow anything given to us through our religion ? Let's not get into that for now , after all this is my FIRST attempt at blogging !

One thing that I never fail to notice is the number of eyes staring back at me whenever I'm in the mall or a restaurant with a bunch of friends . No we don't mistake the mall for a circus showing up like a bunch of clowns , neither do we go for that "skinny jeans" look that's so 2008 . So what could it possibly be ? Before you comment , we're not dressed from top to bottom with a zillion "LV"s printed on us .. ( I once read that LV pays YOU to do the advertisement for them #Sarcasm )

A GIRL !!!! Oh my lord !!!!! Are they ACTUALLY going into the mall with girls ?!?!?!?!! WE'VE NEVER SEEN GIRLS BEFORE !!! CALL THE COPS !!!

I'm sick and tired of telling the public I studied in a mixed school ever since kindergarten and second of all , what's it to you ? I mean I'm not going out with your wife neither am I going around repeating my number over and over again !

Don't get me wrong , I'm not afraid of being judged , it's something the community would always do even if you were an angel sent down by God. Could you imagine Starbucks without gossip ? BORING

So what's stopping your brain from processing the 1 kb of text that says "2011" ?!

On top of that , it's Dubai ! I mean , I would 'kinda' get hanged in Iran and just maybe slaughtered in 'Saudia Arabia' (which , by the way , is the country I originate from) but in Dubai ? Please.

So here's my first blog post . Maybe it wasn't a good idea to start it with such a post but what else could I write about while I get ready for Friday's outing ? All I could think of is .... Well , I just blogged it !

Sincerely,

M7md

P.S. Special thanks to those who pushed me into started my own blog  , you know yourselves . Only time would tell if blogging is the right thing for me :)