AD200910907149992AR
AD200910907149992AR

TV cartoon Hamdoon explores UAE identity



A TV cartoon character aimed at boosting the nation's sense of identity was officially unveiled today. Hamdoon, a six-year-old Emirati boy who wears a khadoura that is slightly too big and a plain ghutra piled on top of his lollipop head, will make his TV debut next year in a 15 part series. Although it is aimed at children, Abdulla al Sharhan the creator, said that the message behind the programme is suitable for all ages "He emphasises the values of everything about the UAE, it is a show for all the family," he said. The Hamdoon Cartoon Series follows the life of the child who grew up abroad due to his father's job and who has since returned to the country to live with his grandparents. The 15 part series, which will be screened in October next year features Hamdoon discovering his home country. Through his character's relationships with his uncle, aunt and grandparents, Sharhan hopes to reinforce the importance of respect for the older generations as well as instilling a sense of national identity. The project has been supported by the Khalifa Fund to Support and Develop Small Enterprises and the TV series is sponsored by Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. aseaman@thenational.ae

The specs

Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder MHEV

Power: 360bhp

Torque: 500Nm

Transmission: eight-speed automatic

Price: from Dh282,870

On sale: now

Match info

Australia 580
Pakistan 240 and 335

Result: Australia win by an innings and five runs

BLACKBERRY

Director: Matt Johnson

Stars: Jay Baruchel, Glenn Howerton, Matt Johnson

Rating: 4/5

Financial considerations before buying a property

Buyers should try to pay as much in cash as possible for a property, limiting the mortgage value to as little as they can afford. This means they not only pay less in interest but their monthly costs are also reduced. Ideally, the monthly mortgage payment should not exceed 20 per cent of the purchaser’s total household income, says Carol Glynn, founder of Conscious Finance Coaching.

“If it’s a rental property, plan for the property to have periods when it does not have a tenant. Ensure you have enough cash set aside to pay the mortgage and other costs during these periods, ideally at least six months,” she says. 

Also, shop around for the best mortgage interest rate. Understand the terms and conditions, especially what happens after any introductory periods, Ms Glynn adds.

Using a good mortgage broker is worth the investment to obtain the best rate available for a buyer’s needs and circumstances. A good mortgage broker will help the buyer understand the terms and conditions of the mortgage and make the purchasing process efficient and easier. 


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