Words of Wisdom - the Editor

Peace.
Got busy with a new project. So couldn’t add more news. Although I came across a fine article by a brother on the history and future of Islamic Banking. I was surprised to know that Islamic banking had beginnings in 1975. Wow. That’s almost as early as my birth. And I guess if there are enough like minded people any idea is bound to grow. I too used to wonder if I can invest without plunging into interest based transactions.

UK I noticed is taking some fine initiatives to promote Shariah Finance. Also came across a western brother or atleast who calls Muslims his brothers and sisters but laughs cynically at the DOW Islamic index as 'bending backwards' to accommodate those guys who have four wives and cut of peoples hands. O well some people just don't get it, do they?

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

'Islamic' hotel opens in Dubai

ABU DHABI: Hotel management group Millennium is planning to open a 163-room Sharia-compliant property in Dubai.

The hotel will not serve alcohol and have separate timings for men and women using the swimming pool.

Copthorne Hotel general manager Reda Mukhtar said the hotel, opening today, will serve people looking for a 'more decent treatment' in services.

"The hotel is dry. The background music is inspired by nature (in the form of chirping of birds, waterfalls sounds, beach wave sounds), men and women have different timings to enjoy the covered swimming pool," he added.

Mukhtar said the hotel is open to families and individuals, but it will not try to find out the relationship between a couple when they check in. "We are not going to check on couples. We will just register their identities," he said.

The duties of female employees working as receptionists, waitresses and housekeepers will be the same as in any other hotel, Mukhtar said, adding that "they will not be covered up, but have to dress decently."

Mukhtar said Gulf investors are showing more interest in Islamic hotels because of demand for this accommodation.

The Copthorne Hotel is owned by Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.

Gulf Daily News

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