SC4 Devotion Forum Archives

   Fursan is a small fishing village situated on the western coast of Africa, snuggled on all sides except the west by the troubled country of Western Sahara.  Originally settled by Phoenician explorers more than 2,500 years ago thanks to its abundant offshore fish, it has remained almost unchanged since its founding.  About 400-500 years ago (exact date is unknown), the village of Fursan and a large area surrounding it was acquired and bought by a rich family called Dawa, whose origins are believed to be of an Arab-European descent.

   There is very little history of note; while the world went through colonization, two wars, and decolonization, Fursan was left alone, isolated and forgotten. The Dawa family, which currently reside in Monte Carlo, remain remarkably rich, but haven't spent a penny towards developing Fursan and its surrounding area in the past.

   Recently, an oil analysis and exploration team doing work in the Moroccan controlled area of Western Sahara concluded that a vast amount of petrol and gas were to be found in the areas around Fursan, which lit up the attention of the Berber Dawa, one of the elder sons.  He had always dreamed of developing the area, and this was to be his opportunity.

   Fursan's current economy relies almost exclusively on fishing. There is some very minor export of fish to Western Sahara, and the profit of that is used to acquire food and other necessary ingredients for life to bring back to the village. Tourism is almost unheard of, with an estimated 120 people that can be classified as "tourists" passing through the village last year, of which all where using the road the flows through coastal Western Sahara to get from the north to the south, or vice-versa.  The land is arid and dry (desert), so there is no agriculture to speak of. It has been concluded that farming is indeed possible in the area with the right amount of investment, but the Dawas have been reluctant to throw money into the area.  Herding is used as means to feed the village, with no export of Fursani meat to speak of.

   The land has no currency of its own, and consumer spending doesn't exist.  Electricity is run by a large generator the Dawas installed a few years ago, and running water is pumped by small facility outside of the village. Telephone lines don't exist, and neither does TV.

   With the discovery of abundant natural resources in the area, however, Berber Dawa is looking to change all that.  With plans of full-scale development, he is ready to bring the village of Fursan, and the land of Qumma (the surrounding area around Fursan belonging to the Dawa family) into the 21st century.

Great start.

Adding a church, would put the dot over the i. ;)

Wonderful start, nedalezz! :thumbsup:

Looking forward to more...

     
          Upon arriving in Fursan, the first thing Berber Dawa has had done is take a population census of the village, with the report announcing it at 510. Females were counted at 264 while the males account for 246 of the total population, with 353 of the 510 under the age of 18.

          Dawa's first act has been to establish a "Governmental Office", otherwise called the Qumma Executive Council, inside of Fursan, and has given the QEC permission to act out any new decrees on his behalf once full permission has been presented to them by Dawa himself.  He has employed 5 people to work in the QEC (3 of them coming from out of Qumma) and handle the office's daily affairs.  Once fully established, which it is in the process of being, Dawa has stated he wants to treat the Qumma economy as that of a nation, taking into account GDP, PPI, etc.

          The QEC's current assignment is to recommend 3 locations for a new Police Department that will serve Fursan and its outlaying areas. Once a location has been chosen and constructed, a car shall be imported, and 4 police officers are to be chosen as the very first members of Fursan PD #1.  Although the village is extremely peaceful, Dawa spoke of further securing the minds of the residents of Fursan by assuring them someone will watch over them if something was to happen.

           Dawa has also issued the QEC with his top priorities; once the Fursan PD #1 project has been undertaken, they are to propose a location for a new elementary school. With no educational institutes to speak of, education levels in Qumma are 0. Dawa will make it mandatory for all children to attend school up to 8th grade, believing that atleast 50 children will benefit immediately from the construction of the elementary school.

          Also on the list of the QEC's top priorities is a healthcare facility, employing at least 2 doctors. Both the healthcare facility and the elementary school will be owned by the QEC, and both will be free for the public to use, save for some small yearly fees.

          Realizing that there is no way that Fursan (or Qumma) could self-support the construction and running expenses of these projects, Dawa has eased concerns by stating his own personal fortune will be used. 

          The Fursan PD #1 blueprints have already been drawn up, and approximate estimates for the finished product, including construction and facility utilities which include 2 computers), will be $95,000. Monthly expenses, including officer wages, will run at around $7,500, with each officer taking in $500 a month.

          The elementary school, which is as of yet unnamed and unplanned, will have 10 classrooms (Pre Kindergarten – 8th Grade), all of which will be furnished with 20 desks, whiteboard, and a teacher's desk. In addition, there will be 4 administrative offices, outside playground, a small parking lot, basketball court, and a small library, all of which will have good maintenance and attention. While there have not been any blueprints drawn up, estimates have ranged between $250,000 and $400,000 for the finished product.

           Finally, the healthcare clinic will be substantially smaller than the elementary school, but the equipment substantially more sophisticated and expensive. Dawa's requirements include a surgery room, 5 patient rooms, each with a capacity of 4 people, and 5 private patient rooms. There will also be a reception room, and a small area of medicine, as well as at least 4 small checkup rooms. Like the elementary school, there have been no blueprints, but estimates range between $150,000 and $300,000, depending on the quality and quantity of the equipment to be brought in.

          All in all, Dawa is looking to put in approximately $800,000 to $1,000,000 of his own personal funding to support the 3 projects which he has prioritized for the QEC, a small amount compared to the billions he is estimated to be worth.  The QEC has stated that these projects can support a town of up to 5,000 residents, which puts into light Dawa's plan for growth.  It is no secret of Berber Dawa's plans for the area, which he has publicly spoken about, saying, "If Dubai can go from a small fishing village to a transport, financial, and tourist hub in 30 years on a 1/10 of the natural resources we have, then I don't see why Qumma can't experience the same."


NOTE: Do forgive the lack of pictures, next update will have some. I've already taken them ;)

Your city gives me memories of my holidays in the South of France!  ;D
Good work  :thumbsup:

I had the pleasure of spending a month on Africa's Gold Coast last summer, so I shall enjoy watching your region develop. Looks like you've made a good start.

Until next time...
Joan

I like this one. The water mod looks so real. The town is very charming.  :thumbsup:

Interesting start.  I agree with vester about the church, it would fit in perfect.

Robin   :thumbsup:

As you are seemingly using my material, check out my churches on LEX; hopefully you will something from there. Nice job, by the way   :thumbsup:

vester: Thanks, and you'll always have a special place as the firster replier on the MD!

bat: Thank you, looking forward to presenting more :)

gorillazmatt: Well even though Qumma is based on the coast of West Africa, its influences are very much mediterrenean (Dawa lives in Monte Carlo, and the original settlers were Phoenician traders). Alot of the construction will remind you of areas such as South France, Spain, Italy, etc. :)

Jmouse: That's amazing! I have several businesses all over West Africa, including Ghana (originally Gold Coast)! I am actually in Accra right now. How was your experience here?

Schulmanator: I have CycleDogg and BSC to thank for the terrain and the water mod, and mickebear to thank for the town! I love all of them, really, the watermod is excellent, the terrain is just what I wanted, and the buildings are so real and they fit so well. So thanks to all the involved parties!

rooker1: The Qummans and Fursanis are a religious bunch (both Muslim and Christian), so sooner or later, a church would have to be built.

mickebear: You don't understand how much I love your Med Set, and how crucial it will be for this MD! Much of the construction, atleast early on, will be from your Med Set...in fact, it is safe to assume you are the single most important entity of this MD, and its an honor to have you post here! Do you plan on releasing anymore Med Set buildings?

Hi Nedalezz,

Well, as you may or may not have heard, I didn't BAT for 9 months - I had some issues with RL that needed urgent attention and have taken a long time to solve. However, I AM going to continue BATting and there are already a few new BATs on the pipeline with BarbyW in BSC. Please check my BSC Work Area on SC4D (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?board=142.0) thread for further information. Inside the thread there is also a link to an external site to showcase some of the work to be released. I am glad that you are using my work and like your way of presenting it.

brs

Mika

    
             A total of $830,000 initial investment has been made by Berber Dawa towards completing these projects, and he will also be expected to shell out approx. $50,000 a month in order to keep each facility functioning the way it should. The town of Fursan (or the land of Qumma, for that matter) currently is not able to support any of these projects, but with the small mandatory fees that will be levied on the residents, it is expected that at the beginning of the upcoming year, the QEC will be able to begin pitching in approx. 2% of the total monthly running costs to keep the projects operational, a reasonably good first step in self-sustaining itself.

   Fursan's population has already doubled to just over 1,000, according to the latest census, thanks to the new facilities constructed. Dawa also issued the QEC with orders to construct free housing for any family that was willing to move into Fursan, and many nomadic people as well as rural residents have quickly jumped on the opportunity to be closer to the school and clinic. The housings have cost Dawa just over $150,000 altogether, which brings his total investment into Fursan thus far to just under $1,000,000.

   The Istral Dawa Elem. School (named after Berber's great-grandfather) and Fursan Health Clinic have been a resounding success. The school currently employs 10 teachers, 1 for each grade, and has now accommodated 134 students. The clinic employs 5 doctors, and already a small expansion has been made to accommodate the number of patients that have used the facility.

   Berber Dawa has also announced the biggest project to be put forth as of yet; a small power plant that will replace the large generator just outside the village that currently keeps the power on for its residents. The road that leads to the generator will be extended about 1.23 kilometers, and at the end of that road, the power plant will be constructed. Dawa has stated that the power plant will be able to support a town of up to 20,000-25,000 people, and will create approximately 150 new jobs, capable of employing a large portion of the current estimated workforce of Fursan. However, it is widely expected that Dawa will put aside at least a 1/3 of the new jobs to bring in people from outside of Qumma, in order to further help the population grow.

Very nice update. I like the overall atmosphere, including the terrain and red-roofed houses. Your photos are really good.

Until next time...
Joan

Wonderful update, nedalezz Great pictures! Fantastic looking overview shot of that town! :thumbsup:

Another super update.  I really love the small life feeling I get when I look at these pictures.  Great work!

Robin   :thumbsup:

All Right!  You're back, and this looks like great stuff.  I was a huge fan of the original Levante, and look back with some nostalgia when it, 3RR and jeronij's MDs were the only ones here.  That was just January of this year- time sure does fly.

When you hear that pitter-patter (thud-thud, actually) of big flat feet, that's me lurking.

Good luck!


David

sweeeeeeet nibblets i cant belive i missed the start of this MD wow its very good nedalezz  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: I will so be back for more - pat

Jmouse: Thanks. Im aiming to make a desert-styled MD reminiscint of the Gulf countries, but at the same time, I want it to have a Mediterrenean feel. It will be interesting to see how successful I can be mixing the different types of buildings that will inevitably contrast.

bat: Merci beaucoup! I like to mess around with Photoshop alot, as you can probably tell. Ive said it more than once, but I feel like it adds a whole new element to SimCity.

rooker1: Thanks! Inevitably, Fursan will get larger, and the small life feel is going to go, but more than likely, villages all across Qumma will begin popping up as the population grows. What will be lost in Fursan, will be found in other places!

dedgren: Hehe, Im honoured! You actually remember Levante, and you are right, it was one of the first MDs on this site. The problem is, my work takes up so much of my time, I just end up neglecting any city I might have started. I dont want that to happen with this one. Thank you again for the kind words, hope you keep checking up on Qumma.

patfirefghtr: Thank you, thank you! You might have missed the start, but atleast you are here now, hopefully to stay!

Nedalezz yuppers im here to stick around for ya's  :thumbsup:  i really do love that artiistic shot and the sun light is a great effect on the whole pic its self cant wait to see more - pat

That's a nice new picture! Looking forward to the next update!

             Rapid growth continues to be the name of the game for Fursan, with the population quickly approaching 3,000.  A continuous stream of new residents have made their way to the town, seeking jobs, security, and education for their children.  The new developments to house them has expanded the town northwards, towards the new Fursan Power Plant, and around the Tareeq Greenery Park area, next to the Fursan Health Clinic.

   The QEC has established and is running a route into the south of Morocco that will help the local fishermen export their catches and profit from them.  Having bought 4 trucks with freeze capabilities, the trip starts at 7 AM, reaching southern Morocco in the afternoon/evening time.  The Fursani fishermen report by 6:30 AM with their catches, and depending on the type of fish they catch, are given a certain amount of cash in return.  The QEC then takes the fish to a market in southern Morocco, selling it directly to customers and Moroccan wholesalers, who then ship them north to the more populated areas.  The fishermen benefit because they earn cash for their catches, and the QEC benefits because it also profits from its sales, and circulates cash in the local economy, which is a necessity to build a strong consumer base.

              Speaking of the QEC, Dawa has constructed a building which has become known as the QEC Administrative Building, the headquarters for the local acting government of Qumma.



              The QEC has also managed to put together a financial report of Fursan for the previous year, the first time they do such a thing.  Here is some of the information they managed to gather. Continued growth is expected to be sustained, with estimates suggesting Fursan to have a population atleast 5,000 by the end of the 3rd year since Dawa took over.:

-   GDP per Person / Total GDP: $3,600 / $10,700,000
-   Total Import / Export: $8,880,000 / $95,000
-   Population / Population Growth: 2940 / 123%
-   Male-Female Ratio: 48% - 52%
-   Primary Imports: Food, Drinking Water, Cement, Steel
-   Primary Exports: Fish, Arts & Crafts


            Meanwhile, Berber Dawa has continued to put money into researching a suitable location for his new oil refinery.  A road has already been constructed leading in land, and power lines have lined up next to the road in order to connect any potential refinery with electricity.  While Dawa has stated the construction of the refinery is still a long way off, there has already been interest from powerful world bodies ready and willing to do business.  He is reluctant to do any business concerning the export of Qumman oil, however, before the establishment of the discussed and proposed Qumma Oil Ministry (QOM).

             Not every has been rosy for Qumma and Fursan, however. For one, private investors have not exactly flocked to the land; in fact, they haven't come at all. Dawa has had a very tough time trying to sell Qumma to any type of private investors, who currently see no future in the place.  Fursan, despite its developments, is still very underdeveloped and behind world averages in every category.  Despite encouraging cash circulation, there is almost no commercial activity in Fursan itself between the people.  The only commercial activity occurs almost exclusively between the residents and the QEC.  The QEC itself is young and maintaining, but it is not even close to supporting itself and Qumma, something which Dawa has been aiming for.

Very nice update.  The town has a very quaint and quiet feeling.  I love it, great work.

Robin   :thumbsup:

Don't worry, it takes time and money to develop anything worthwhile, so be patient ;)
I can't help with the time element, but my check for $5 million Cedis is in the mail. I trust you will invest it wisely in this up-and-coming commercial development.
And kudos for the nice update. :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Wonderful update! That city is looking very great! :thumbsup:

patfirefghtr: I had a look at your MD, and I can say with full confidence you definitely got a new fan. Also good to know you're a fan of this one!

bat: Thank you. As the city develops, I hope you enjoy the direction it takes.

rooker1: Indeed, the town is on the very quiet, relaxed side. It seems the world had completely forgotten about this piece of itself, but for how long.... ;)

Jmouse: Hehe, you know they redenominated the currency now! Now, 10,000 old Ghana Cedis equal 1 new Ghana Cedi! It works much better this way, as I dont have to have bulging pockets everytime I need carry the equivalent of $100 in my pocker, lol. Your donation towards the development of Fursan has been well noted by the QEC and they have personally asked me to thank you for your kind actions.

Hey nedalezz thank you I'm proud to be a fan of your MD as well.... I really loved the last full update and this new update of Fursan defiantly gives off the Mediterranean feel... cant wait to see more - pat

nedalezz,
Super work.  If you don't mind could I suggest the High Tention Poles by Fukuda which can be found here (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=16152&v=1) .  I hate those red power lines.

Robin   :thumbsup:

Great new overview of that beautiful looking city! :thumbsup:

I decided that the terrain I was using, while incredible, wasn't what I was looking for. The Painted Desert terrain by Cycledogg is, in its own right, a whole lot more detailed and alive than THL's Sandy Desert terrain, but the latter was exactly what I was looking for for this particular map and MD.

I wanted a pure desert terrain, with no greenery whatsoever, so that I could make my own where I wanted it. I know that MBEAR's fantastic MED set might have fit nicer with the Painted Desert terrain, but I also think that it goes well with the new one. While you wouldn't find these types of buildings in the Gulf region, they would not be uncommon or out of place in and around the sand dunes of North Africa, where Qumma is based.

So without further ado, he is a preview of the new mod, taken from almost the exact location of a previous picture I had taken. Comments, both critical and positive, are welcome! The top picture is what it was; the bottom picture is what it has become! Please note that the first picture, I used the beach plops to make the sand white the way it appears, while in the second picture, the beach is untouched (no plops).

You are so right to go after exactly the effect you want. Accepting anything less is a bumpy road to failure. Good luck with your new approach.

Until next time...
Joan

It will be very interesting to see what you do now.  And I did notice the new power lines.   ;)


Robin   :thumbsup:

That new terrain mod looks better at this region! :thumbsup:

I think that it's the most realistic city in this forum  &apls Did You model on any real city?

Nice stuff! You have continued to do a fine job in keeping true to your theme.  :satisfied:

           


          It is now the 3rd year of the Berber Dawa era in Qumma, and Fursan has grown to over 7,000. The official census has not yet been reported, but it will only say what is already known; for the 300,000+ that live in Western Sahara, and the 5,000,000+ that live in northern Mauritania, southern Morocco, and southwestern Algeria, the town has proven to be a popular destination for them. Almost 95% of all new residents come from these areas and rural Qumma, and Fursan has its basic facilities to thank for that.




           Recently, during a research trip for prime locations for oil drilling, the team assigned discovered an abundance of diamonds in a rocky area to the southeast of Fursan.  While diamonds are usually found in less arid areas to the south, there have been instances where they were discovered in desert/semi-desert areas (Angola).  At this time, there has been no further investigation of the new discovery, and the team that discovered the resource have turned the task over to a new one assembled by Dawa. 

Under Dawa's instruction, the QEC has immediately banned any digging until further notice, as no laws have been drawn up for the export/import of diamonds yet.  The area which they were discovered has also been sealed off from the public until further notice, not that the area sees many visitors, anyway. 

If it is an isolated area and the discovery turns out to be for a small amount, the QEC will have to decide whether to dig itself and sell them on the market for its own profits or whether to let the people loose on the land and let them benefit themselves directly.  However, if there proves to be an abundance of the pricey mineral, enough to rely on it as a national resource and source of income, the QEC will have to develop a whole new set of rules and laws, and there will be tough decisions to make, including whether to let in private investors, or whether to make it a government-owned resource.




           As for Fursan itself, there have recently been some requests for the construction of a high school, so that children may continue to further their education.  The QEC has formally presented the request Dawa, and although no solid plans have been drawn up yet, a location has been selected.  With the construction of the yet unnamed high school, Istral Dawa Elementary School will have a continuation, and education levels in Qumma will continue to rise.  As of right now, the very underdeveloped land continues to be bottom of the list when it comes to world averages in education levels.

Nice job of using rocks and sparse foliage to enhance the desert quality of the region. And all the photos look great, but I've always been a sucker for night shots!

Until next time...
Joan

WoW i missed a little bit here while away but Nedalezz you are doing a fantastic job here and defintly having the desert town feeling... I do love those power lines where did you find them?  The last pic is by far my favorite one from this last update - pat

Again wonderful pictures of that city! Also great overviews! :thumbsup:

Grea update.  You know, you could show me the same pictures over and over again, and I would still be amazed.  Awesome work.

&apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Great start and I am so glad to be here for it, Nedalezz. I love the Mediterranean housing in the desert environment. :)

~Nisha

Its been 3 years since Berber Dawa began investing in Qumma and Fursan, and I thought I'd show you the progress made during that time.  Dawa has invested almost $15,000,000 in Qumma in those 3 years, with most of it going to basic infastructure such as housing for all the new residents. Here is an overview of Qumma back then and now, complete with some general information:

Wonderful update 6! :thumbsup: Looking forward to more... ;)

Wow, Fursan looks incredible! The only thing I'm missing is a mosque, for a muslim village like Fursan, a mosque will look great ;)

Very nice and informative update. I like little villages but always end up with crowded conditions. Fursan holds much potential.
Have a safe and pleasant journey!

Until next time...
Joan

Jmouse: Thank you, I do believe I'm going tomorrow in the morning and coming back in the afternoon. As Fursan develops and gets more and more crowded, I'm sure little villages are going to start popping up elsewhere in Qumma ;)

ThomasAH: I would love to add a mosque! Problem is, I cant find any to suit Fursan. If you had a link, I would most definitely put one in. Thank you for the compliment.

bat: Thanks, and I'm looking forward to presenting more!

Nisha: Hey Nisha, thanks! I was a bit worried that the MBEAR set wouldn't suit the sandy deserty terrain as much as it did the Painted Desert one, but it has worked out fine, in my eyes. I hope you all share the same opinion!

rooker1: Hopefully, I will have more to offer than just showing the same picture over and over again! I try to work out pictures with different affects, adding a bit more to a usual SC picture. It works for some, and it doesnt for others, but I definitely like how they turn out.

patfirefghtr: The powerlines were made available to me through a link rooker1 gave to me, so thanks goes out to him for making me aware of them. Unfortunately, I lost the link, but ask rooker, I'm sure he will be more than willing to help you as he did me.

Schulmanator: I wanted a pure desert look because I like the idea of developing an entire nation out of nothing. Thank you for the kind words.

S_imon: Hey S_imon, that's one heck of a compliment! Actually, I did not model after any real city, just going with my imagination, building as it comes to me. All credit due to MBEAR's fantastic work with the MED set.

OK i will have to ask Robin then and thank you for pointing me in the right direction at least...
That map is good looking, very good at that - pat

Quote from: nedalezz on August 29, 2007, 09:23:48 AM
ThomasAH: I would love to add a mosque! Problem is, I cant find any to suit Fursan. If you had a link, I would most definitely put one in. Thank you for the compliment.

Mmmm, well, there is really a lack of them. There are dozens of churches, but I can only find one good looking mosque (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=4589).
I know, it's a different building style, but it might look good.

I'm looking forward to more ;)

Yesterday, the QEC officially opened Qal'at Turbia (Turbia Fort) to the north of Fursan to the public.  The fort will feature a small museum and gift shop, and it is the first step into developing a tourism industry in the area, something which Berber Dawa longs to achieve. The fort was renovated and refurbished, a process which took approximately 1 year and $300,000 to complete, but the results have been well worth it.

Not much is officially known about the fort, but it is believed to have been constructed by the Portuguese, who set it up after stumbling across the tremendous fishing in the area. Qal'at Turbia in itself is quite a small building, but there is also an extension next to it which features a dungeon, believed to have been used during the slave trade days. The site is approximately 2 hours drive by car north of Fursan.



Hello there...I see you've managed to get your hands on some pictures of the mysterious Qal'at Turbia, translated into English as the Turbia Fort. Allow me to introduce myself; I am Hussein Ja'afar, a native Qumman whose family has been nomads for thousands of years. We Ja'afars originate from the deserts of Algeria, although none of us have seen those parts in...well, a very long time.

I'm sure you've already been told that Qumma has no history of note, or that there are no records of any historical data and stories.  The latter could be true, but the former...couldn't be further from the truth.  You see, Qumma is a land of great mysticism and mystery, a land which has seen much in its long, secretive past. This is a land of barbarism and romance, a land of wars and love, a land which holds so much beneath its sandy surface...

I hear they have opened up the Qal'at Turbia to the public in hopes of cashing in on a new tourist destination.  I can't blame them, really, as one has to keep up with modern times.  I also heard of their claim that it was Portuguese traders who set up and built this fort in sometime in the 1600s.  Sit down, my friends, and I will tell you the true story of Qal'at Turbia...

Almost 800 years ago, in what west the called the 1200s, Qumma was at war and divided.  It was one of the darker ages in Qumman history, with nomadic tribes fighting for supremacy over the land and its few waterholes. At the time, the most powerful one was the Kabaliya tribe, who were led by the ruthless and merciless Jalibat Tadawer.  He was a man with no conscience, leaving destruction and death wherever he struck.  He had over 20 wives, all of which were treated as captives, and ruled his tribe with an iron fist.

Tadawer, however, had one weakness: his obsession for power and glory. Having heard of the wealth of a small fishing village called Turbia on the coast, he decided to make it his next target. There was one problem, though: no one knew how to get there. No one except for a young, beautiful captive called Jamila.

Jamila was from the Turbia tribe, one of the few non-nomadic tribes in Qumma at the time.  She was on trading route when she was caught and captured, with her 4 escorts killed in the process. When she heard of Tadawer's plans to attack her village, she was heartbroken. She decided she had to find a way to warn her people about the surprise attack that was to be inflicted upon them.

Visiting Tadawer's tent in the middle of the night, she proclaimed her undying love for the man, and stated she would do anything for him, even showing him the way to Turbia, if it meant earning back his love.  In his self-obsessed vanity, Tadawer believed she was truthful, figuring there was no way any woman could resist him. He promised her if she showed him the way to Turbia, she would have found the way to unlock his stoic heart. 

Jamila led them to the coast, and legend has it she escaped and ran non-stop for days before finally reaching Turbia, warning her loved ones of the massacre that was planned. The Turbians worked day and night constructing a building that would defend the people against Tadawer and the Kabaliyas, knowing that it was only a matter of time before they showed up to complete their sinister plan.

On the eve of the 3rd week after Jamila's escape, they finally located Turbia, and went ahead with their plan. However, they had no chance against the fortification of Qal'at Turbia, and the battle was over in a matter of hours as the Kabaliyas retreated and fled. Tadawer was injured in the battle and was left by his fleeing men to die. His captives, or his wives as he called them, were welcomed with open arms into the Turbia tribe, but Tadawer's fate was less kind. Taken in by the Turbian medics, he was given treatment and he physically healed within a matter of weeks.  Those same medics, however, cast upon him a spell of illusional karma, where all he could see and imagine for the rest of his days things done upon him that he had inflicted on other people. He was locked inside an extention to the Qal'at Turbia, in a dungeon as cold as the desert is hot, for the rest of his life, effectively bringing to an end the Kabaliya tribe, who dispersed and joined other tribes after their famous defeat.

Hundreds of years later, the Portuguese stumbled upon the deserted fort, perhaps a couple of centuries after the village of Turbia ceased to exist, but that is a story for another time, perhaps. I now must leave you with a famous Turbian saying which has lived through the years... "He who looks at the sun with his eyes will see its incredible beauty and splendor. But he who looks at the sun with his eyes will see nothing else after that."

Till the next time we meet, may the desert show you all of its magic and wonder. Al-Sallam Alaykum, my good friends.    

Wonderful new update! Great work! :thumbsup:

nedalezz, congratulations!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg211.imageshack.us%2Fimg211%2F2372%2Fqummavn0.png&hash=e519ef9731e5268542867b6ea192d66581eb5779)

...Who knew deserts could be so cool?


The Staff

Thank you for a very interesting update, and congratulations on your promotion. Your MD has always been of special interest to me!  :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Have been lurking since the start, but with your well*-deserved promotion thought it was about time to say what a great MD this is. You are clearly taking time and effort to plan the region and its history, without rushing into building large cities. I like the way Fursan is developing and the way it conforms to the coastline. Qal'at Turbia also looks good - waiting to see a wider view of the fort. (This is the first use of this lot that I have seen.)

*I saw an oilwell joke coming (re reply 34) but thought better of it!! :-X

I've been lurking too - this journal really deserves the recognition of being on the Special Interest page.  Congratulations!

-aaron

Is it just me or did Fursan get sandier during that time frame. ;)

Actually, the switch of terrain mod makes it look much more northafrican, so I think it is a great choice. :thumbsup:

Congratulations on the reward, and looking forward to more updates. &apls

Congrats on this award, nedalezz! &apls And also looking forward to more of Qumma.

What beautiful city and which beautiful landscapes! It is impressive! Congratulation for your promotion!  :thumbsup:

First and foremost, let me just say its a huge honour to receive the award; I had no idea or inkling, nor was I even thinking about such a thing, which makes it even more rewarding for me. Thank you guys, and I hope to keep delivering the goods you want! On to the replies:

patfirefghtr: They look great, I'm really glad rooker1 let me know about them. Much better than the normal Maxis powerlines.

ThomasAH: I agree. I found a couple, but none really that fit into Fursan well. I might end up constructing a cathedral somewhere, though, will have to make a storyline that will work it in. Like you said, there are a few really nice ones that could fit great in Fursan, or even another smaller village.

bat: Thank you! I love how you are always there to comment after an update :) Thank you for reading Qumma.

dedgren: What's cool is that award, lol. Thanks!

Jmouse: Very kind words, thank you. I hope it remains special to you and you continue enjoying reading it!

Copperalis: Nice oilwell joke, lol. Yeah, I definitely don't feel the urge to rush into any development; I want to take my time and develop the nation. I've always viewed CJ/MDs as a way to bring a city/nation to life, and that is what I'm trying to do. I recently downloaded the fort; it can be found on STEX (sorry!) and it was made by PEG.

pickled_pig: Thank you! Lurkers are fine in my book, as I am/was one myself. Comments are definitely appreciated, though, so thanks!

emilin: Yeah, as I said before, the Painted Desert terrain is terrific and much more detailed in its own right, but it just wasnt the look I was going for. I feel this suits what I want much more. Thank you for the compliment!

Manny: Merci! I hope you enjoy the updates to come as well.

Congratulations!  &apls
I love the update. Such interesting and intriguing history.  :thumbsup:

~Nisha

Congratulations

your MD is one of my favorites :thumbsup:

Wow, I missed a lot of action here, nedalezz! Sorry that I'm so late to the party, but Qumma looks wonderful. You can bet that I'll be following along with future updates. And congratulations on making it to Special Interest status, too, my friend!

Nedalezz a great update # 7 was and i enjoyed the way you used pegs fort and most of all a biiiiiiiiig congrats on Septembers OSITM

oh and welcome to page 4

Ive just read through your entire CJ and I must say wow, you've nailed the feeling perfectly. Along with your rich history, graphics, maps, and graphs. Incredible. Now I have two suggestions. The first one is fish is shown as an export, yet there is no fishing port, perhaps you should construct one with Nob's set (I'm sure you know where to find it, if not I'd be happy to show you). The second suggestion is perhaps a ring of oasis farms just behind the town, perhaps even grazing land for cattle etc.

I look forward to what you do next :)

Hello nedalezz,

I see your MD first time and I must say I'm impressed!
Great story, a lot of interesting information, and Qal'at Turbia is fantastic!

You choosen very challenging place to develop, I'm sure you know the destert very good, but it is very difficult to do something diversified on the sand  :) You can't use a lot of stuff - farms, trees, canals and many others. But it has also a good side - if you will create something interesting, it will look even better than in typical surrounding, because of the contrast with harsh and monochromatic landscape.

Very good and very creative work!  :thumbsup:

Edit:

Quotefish is shown as an export, yet there is no fishing port, perhaps you should construct one with Noob's set (I'm sure you know where to find it, if not I'd be happy to show you).

Good suggestion, I think Somy's Gyoko 2 will look perfect here - here is it (http://members3.jcom.home.ne.jp/somy000/p5.htm)

The QEC, about a year and half back, proposed a detailed assessment to Berber Dawa about the need for a high school.  One of the primary reasons was the desire by the residents to have their children continue their education past the elementary stage.  A staunch supporter of education in itself, Dawa quickly accepted the proposal and did the QEC one better: he directed them to construct not only a high school, but a whole educational facility, made up of a new elementary school, a high school, and sports facilities as well.

The first step was allocating the proper site for the new facility, and after some discussion, land on the northern border of Fursan was put aside for construction. The high school, called Berber Dawa High School, came first, costing a total of $2.5 million, of which all came out of Dawa's pocket.  The QEC employs a local architect and has a local construction crew under his command, but the high school was the biggest project the QEC was responsible for since its inception (the Fursan Power Plant was constructed by a private Spanish firm), but they quickly found out if they were to meet their deadlines, they simply did not have the resources to finish the job properly.  Dawa then contracted a firm called Gallazo Development, an Italian construction and civil engineering company, to take control of the job, resulting in a building structure unlike any seen in Fursan before.

The elementary school, which kept the name Istral Dawa Elementary, was constructed by the local QEC team at the same time as the high school, and its cost ran at approximately $550,000.  It was slightly bigger than the old school, and able to fit nearly 20% more students. Around the two educational facilities, a football (soccer) pitch, 2 basketball courts, 2 tennis courts, and a large parking lot were developed as well.

In total, the project cost the QEC, through Dawa's financial backing, approx. $3.2 million, the 2nd largest investment ever made in Qumma after the power plant.  As for the old Istral Dawa Elementary site, there are plans to demolish the 3 year old building and construct the very first bank in Qumma in its place.  A total of 155 students were enrolled in the high school, and 215 students in the elementary school. The educational facility's monthly expenses run at approx. $45,000 per month.

Beautiful school complex, nedalezz! And the overview shot is amazing! Keep up the good work!

I'll second that! Your ideas inspire me to rethink the way I fit the necessities into the overall scheme of things. And those are very nice photos, BTW.

Until next time...
Joan

Nedalezz a very great story on the construction of the school complex and also great pics to match too...
I do have a question though whats planned for the old school?  Will see you back again - pat

Yes, wonderful looking school complex! Great work! :thumbsup:

Nisha: Thank you. I like throwing in little history sessions about Qumma every now and then. I have a feeling you will be seeing alot more of Hussein Ja'afar in the future ;)

urban: Likewise, my friend! Im a chronic lurker of yours, although I do believe Ive left a couple of comments!

thundercrack83: Thank you, thank you! No matter if you're late, the party is still happening (I hope)! Welcome to Qumma.

patfirefghtr: A biiiiiiggg thank you on the congrats, lol. PEG's fort is awesome, and fit Qumma perfectly. As for the old school, it will be demolished, and the QEC plans to replace with the very first bank in Qumma, the Qumma National Bank, owned 100% by the QEC.

Yoman: Thanks for the amazing compliments! Fursan is developing, and sooner or later, larger developments and projects will start to appear. With the export of fish growing into southern Morocco and Il-Ayun (largest city in Western Sahara), the QEC has already initiating ways to further maximize its profits from it as well as aid the local fishermen, including the construction of a fishing harbor to accomodate them.

Ennedi: Thanks! It is true that it is challenging with the desert terrain, but these Qummans are smart people, and they seem to have the right financial backer.  Alot of the land has been deemed potentially agricultural worthy, but it will take alot of investment, time, and money to grow sustainable commercial farming in the area. Who knows what the future holds for Qumma? Maybe the growth will stop, maybe it will rise to 1,000,000 people in 10 Qumman years ;) Again, thanks for the great compliments.

Jmouse: Thank you, Joan. Inspire is a very strong word, and it totally flatters me, lol.

bat: Thank you, I hope you keep liking what I do with Fursan!

That's a great looking picture of that coastline! Great overview! :thumbsup:

First congrat on the award.  And it seems I have missed a few very good updates.  I love to watch your city grow and school is a great addition.  Your coastline map looks ver good as well.  I can't wait to see it populated.

&apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Interesting photo of the coastline - it looks just like a RL aerial representation.
Have a safe and pleasant trip.

Until next time...
Joan

Hi Nedalezz,

What a very different MD you have here.

I admire your building style and the way you are keeping it all very "meditterannean".

Fursan is looking really good and I'll be interested to see how the region develops.

Love the coastline picture, nedalezz! Can't wait to see how everything develops!

As the 3rd Year under Berber Dawa draws to a close, Fursan welcomes the very first bank in Qumma: the Qumma National Bank.  Fully owned by the governing body, the Qumma Executive Council (QEC), which takes its orders directly from Dawa, it serves the entire land as it's only means of banking and financial service. As education levels grow in the area, so does the understanding and need of such services.

The site of construction was the former Istral Dawa Elementary School. With the opening of the educational facility on the eastern outskirts of Fursan, the school was moved there and the old building was no longer in use. The original idea was to have the building which served as the elementary school turned into a bank, but the idea was scratched by Dawa, who insisted to have a new building replace it. After looking at several ideas and submissions, he chose local architect Dani Kumeisi as the man for the job.

The building, including all the inside equipment, cost approx. $675,000, and currently has a monthly operational cost of almost $90,000, a staggering amount for the QEC to handle. However, since it is fully owned by the QEC, it is estimated the bank will make the governing body close to $200,000-$250,000 a year with the current population.



The opening of the bank has also coincided with the first real commercial activity in Qumma; the Macellebla Restaurant & Patisserie, and the Burjuweh Inn & Restaurant.  Although they can be classified in the same field of business, they are two distinctly different operations.

The Macellebla Restaurant was the first restaurant to open its doors for business in Qumma, and its success can be witnessed by the crowd in the place every night.  Situated just opposite of Barida Park, the location is ideal and the atmosphere always alive. The restaurant serves mainly French and Italian food, with some of Qumma's more popular dishes also on the menu, while the patisserie serves fresh cakes and sweets.  The place is popular with Fursan's slightly older, high-endish crowd who are looking for a relaxing place to eat.  It is owned and operated by Firas Mokhtar, a local Fursani who used to fish for a living.



Burjuweh Inn & Restaurant is a relatively new addition to Fursan, having opened only a few months ago.  Its owner, Garhood Burjuweh, was motivated by the success of the Macellebla, and decided to open up his own eatery.  After buying land on the eastern outskirts of Fursan (approx. 3000 sq. meters for $30,000), he decided to take his idea a step further, constructing a building which he turned into an inn of 20 rooms. Outside, he developed a plaza for people who preferred to sit outside, much like Barida Park. The entire operation cost him nearly $150,000.  Burjuweh works a trader in Il-Ayun, the capital of Western Sahara, and his income comes from that. The Burjuweh Inn has proven to be a huge success with Fursan's younger crowd.

Fursan City looks fantastic and possible a great place to live.  Any house by the sea vacant?  hehehe
Great work my friend.

&apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Another lovely update. Unlike me, you are obviously taking your time and giving your attention to every little detail. Keep it up!

Until next time...
Joan

Wonderful update of the commercial areas! Great work! :thumbsup:

I look forward to whats next :)

I absolutely love the way you did the school in the previous update. It's good to see the development of commerce in Fursan as well.
Looking good!   :thumbsup:
~Nisha

you definetally need a marina, or small seaport

in these region the people are starting a town here only because of the trade-routes by sea...

anyhow; great looking CJ, nice eye for detail

E

bat: As always, thanks for the great compliments. I hope you keep enjoying what you see.

rooker1: Hehe, we could always organize a house for you by the sea. You want an old one, or one to be specifically constructed for you? ;) Thank you for the compliments.

Jmouse: I love focusing on the details; I feel more in touch with the city that I am building when I do. I would love to see some of your cities, by the way.

paroch: Thank you. As I have stated before, I love MBEAR's Med Set, and I think it goes magnificently with the desert terrain I have. I really like the way they mix.

thundercrack83: Thanks! Obviously, as you can see, Im taking my sweet time developing the region, focusing alot on inner stories and stuff. I hope I do develop it in a reasonable time, though.

Yoman: I look forward to presenting what is next!

Nisha: Thank you! As for the school, I tried thinking of what an actual school would look like, with decent facilities. A football (soccer) pitch was a given, and so was the parking lot. It was just a matter of bringing them together in a fluid way; Im happy it worked out the way it did.

ejc: You raise a very valid point; at some point, there has to be plans for a seaport in Qumma. Currently, all the imports come by way of Western Sahara and Morocco through trucks.

nedalezz, my friend.  If it's by the sea and in good condition, new or old, no matter.   ;)
I can't wait til the next update.  Hopefully I can see my new house.

Robin   :thumbsup:

Wow really great love the Green everywhere of Fursan, nice stroyline :) and the city layout it simple but effective ! like it

          Although he would never admit it, the reason Berber Dawa started investing his fortune in Qumma was for personal gains.  After the oil exploration team concluded that Qumma was sitting on huge reserves of the resource, he started throwing money into developing the region.  His projects in Fursan have been more successful than anyone could have ever predicted, with the population at the beginning of the 4th Year just over 10,000 as compared to 530 at the beginning of the 1st Year.

           Four years onwards, and Dawa's dreams are finally being realized.  After investing nearly $10 million in research alone, he began working on and constructing the site for the future oil refineries.  The area is approximately 3 hours inland from Fursan, and it is called Khaymeh, named after the nomadic tribe which wanders the area.  The road that leads from Fursan to Khaymeh (newly constructed) is trailed by high tension power lines which come from the Fursan Power Plant.

           The Khaymeh Oil Refinery has cost Dawa nearly $100 million, and although it is a relatively small one compared to the larger refineries around the world, it has been applauded as one of the cleanest, most efficient ones in existence today.  The Qumma Oil Ministry, which currently operates from the QEC Administrative Building, has begun drawing up plans to construct its own offices in Khaymeh.  As mentioned before, the QOM is a division of QEC, the governmental body of Qumma, and the Khaymeh Oil Refinery is 100% owned and operated by QEC.

           In addition to the construction of the refinery, pipelines are currently being laid out to reach the coast, where inevitably a seaport exclusively for the export of the resource will be constructed.  Railroad tracks are also being placed, believed to be leading into Fursan itself from Khaymeh.  Both projects are being handled by the QEC as well, which has seen its income and revenue jump through the roof after the opening of the Qumma National Bank. Clearly, however, it has no way of operating the Khaymeh Oil Refinery without outside backing, of which Dawa has done plenty of.

          The refinery represents Dawa and Qumma's first large-scale investment, one which could skyrocket foreign investment into the land.  Currently, any oil exports will have to go through Western Sahara or Morocco's ports, as Qumma doesn't have any of its own, but even now, the refinery is expected to turn in major income into the system. With the placement of the railroad tracks, transportation of the oil will be even easier, leading to less cost and yet more profit.



          The town of Khaymeh currently houses approximately 800 people, almost all of which are workers at the refinery. Its houses are more rugged than the ones that can be found on the coast in Fursan due to the harsher weather found inland.  It has very little in the way of anything other than residential apartments, with a few tiny stores meant to provide food and other such necessities. Temperature can reach as high as 55 degrees Celcius during the summer months from June-August in the daytime, but the winter months between November-February can see harshly cold nights, as well as moderately cold days.

          The population of Khaymeh is exclusively blue-collar workers, of which most are not native Qummans.  Most come from Mauritania, with a large number also hailing from Western Sahara.  Only approx. 15% of the workers are native Qummans, with most being former nomads who are seeking a more settled life.

          Now that the Khaymeh Oil Refinery has opened up for business, Qumma's rapid development is surely going to take another step up, but internal rivalries seem to be brewing.  With more cash on the line than ever, people are now trying to get their hands on some of the riches. Dawa has stated that the oil refinery will be used to further enhance the development of the land, but it is also no big secret that a large chunk of the income will come into his pockets.  Still, if enough of the profits can be put aside for the QEC to manage and maintain the development of Qumma, very good things can come from this.

By far my favorite update, Genius, I can clearly see how its based off of those Middle eastern refineries where entire towns are constructed right next door to house workers from the region. Only thing I can suggest is I would just end the railtrack after it goes through the small yard instead of looping it.

Oh, this is a good one, nedalezz, easily the best so far.  &apls But 131 degrees F? I felt sorry for myself when it got up to 104 F one day in August!
You are doing a sensational job on your MD.

Until next time...
Joan

Stunning, nedalezz! Simply stunning!

Fantastic looking Refinery, nedalezz! Great work! :thumbsup:

Very nice refinery and workers town there nedelezz.  The sparseness of the surrounding terrain is fantastic.  I wish I was able to leave such large "empty" pieces of land instead of feeling the urge to fill everything in!

I hope their air con works well in the summer!  :-[

Very nice refinery.  And I like the artistic touch you added to a few of those pics.  Great work.

&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

wonderful and nice terrain by the way. whoever made the lots must be quite good at it.  :)

rooker1: A big thank you goes out to you, Robin, for linking me to the powerlines. The oil refinery would not have looked half as good as it does now with the old red Maxis lines.

nova vesfalo: Thanks! The greenery looks alot better thanks to the contrast with the terrain. Also, I have to say thanks to Jeronij for his excellent street mod. It really adds character to a town.

Yoman: Thank you. I was trying to recreate that Mid Eastern feel with the refinery, Im glad I was somewhat successful! As for the loop, I hear what you're saying, I just wanted to make the turn had means of turning around!

Jmouse: Thanks, Joan. You know during the summer months, it isnt unusual for the temperature to hit 50-55 degrees in the Gulf region, especially near Kuwait and Iraq. Thankfully, it doesnt ever get that hot in Africa, we tend to stay in the 30s!

thundercrack83: Merci! I hope you think the next updates are stunning as well.

bat: Thanks! Im glad you liked the Refinery.

paroch: Hehe, I know exactly what "urge" you are talking about! Thankfully, Im working with alot of tiles, so I take that urge elsewhere and I can afford to leave empty spaces like this!

Madeira: Im glad you liked the terrain; I really feel I did the right thing switching it. As for the lots, they are great, and they can be found here, made by tag_one: http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=15925&v=1 (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=15925&v=1)

The 4th Year has brought with it continued investment and expansion involving the oil industry in Qumma, with the opening of the 2nd refinery just west of the Khaymeh Oil Refinery. The main development, however, is the opening of the Fursan Oil Port, just south of the town, which officially makes Qumma capable of exporting its prized resource.

The port features 2 docking sites for oil tankers, as well as several oil tanks to store the the commodity in. There is also a medium sized freight rail station to handle any container loads the port might have to supply. The oil is transported through pipes from the refineries, eliminating the need to use heavy train transportation to get the resource from their source to the export destination.

The Fursan Oil Port was funded 100% by Berber Dawa on behalf of the QEC, and it cost him approximately $18 million.  In comparison to a normal sized port, it is quite small, with only the necessities constructed.  However, the focus was on efficiency, and there is a lot of that to be had. 

As of now, Qumma exports its oil to 2 countries; Cape Verde Islands and The Gambia, both small markets with a population of under 1.5 million. Dawa made trips to both countries prior to the opening of the port, as well as to Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.  However, only those 2 countries agreed to begin importing oil from Qumma, a move Dawa guaranteed would be one they would not regret.

The QEC is expected to make up its heavy cost of operation of the refineries and the oil port through its export of the commodity.  It has estimated it will export approximately 14,000 barrels per day, with capabilities of producing up to 18,000 barrels per day.


The Cevella Oil Refinery opens just months after the Khaymeh Oil Refinery to the east, and although it will play an important part in the development of the industry in Qumma, it is considerably smaller than its older partner.

Most of the workers will be coming in from Khaymeh, which is expected to hit 1,200 people before the end of the 4th Year thanks to the job opportunities of the new refinery.  Like the Khaymeh Oil Refinery, most of the workers will be from outside of Qumma, seeking better employment and job opportunities than in their homelands.

An unknown private company has presented its plan to open a bus service in Qumma, and is currently awaiting approval. It plans to run 3 routes to start with: Khaymeh-Cevella Oil Refinery, Khaymeh-Fursan, and Fursan-Oil Port. The QEC is set to make its decision on the matter soon.

It's a fantastic work, nedalezz! :thumbsup:

Some time ago I looked at refineries, ports etc. on the Arabian Peninsula on Google Earth, I saw some pictures from this area too and I can say you really create the similar climate in your MD &apls
And your region view is very similar to views from Google Earth!
I like the refinery, and the residential area near it is excellent!
I like the seaport too, I think it will be bigger in the near future ;)

I have 2 suggestions:
1. I see you have built long power lines - they are necessary if yo have the refinery in the desert. But the power line starts at the refinery directly from the sand, without any building, substation or other starting point. Look at Simtropolis and find "Power lines". You should find 2 sets of them, one with substations (this set produces power) and the second one with various power masts (this set is only eye-candy). All lots from both sets can be placed only on the flat terrain, but you just have the flat terrain ;) Maybe these lots will be useful for you.
2. You have yellow sand in the desert and white sand on the seashore. Maybe it would be better to have yellow sand on the beach too?

Most of the development recently in Qumma has been taking place outside of Fursan, but not all! The QEC undertook a project which consisted of flattening the land around the town in anticipation of further residential development. As you can see below, the project was completed, and the they even managed to put walls on the slope to take the eye candy factor up a notch!

nedalezz, that's a fantastic picture.  I can't wait to see what you have for us next.  Ennedi, has some very good suggestions, I missed the sand differences. 

Robin   :thumbsup:

Wow! That a beautiful teaser, nedalezz! Your work is so stunning, I can't wait to see more!

Wow, that picture of Fursan is amazing :) Nice work, I can't wait to see the new Res sector develop.

On the oil port, may I suggest using SOMY's oil tanker (unless you think its too large) for a more detailed ship model? Very nice otherwise.

My suggestion to add small farming oasis's still stands though. ;)

COOL  ;D

Beautiful picture!  :thumbsup:

PS: Welcome on page 6!

Fantastic update, nedalezz! Also a great teaser there! :thumbsup:

Very nice photo. The houses look as though they're turned different ways (or BATted thatway), but IMO it gives a very natural look to the neighborhood.

Until next time...
Joan

The revenue brought in by the oil refineries and the export of the resource has been felt immediately. The QEC has been able to finance developments in Fursan and begin construction on the Qumma Oil Ministry office in Khaymeh without any foreign aid, namely in the form of Berber Dawa.

What has been especially encouraging is the way the money has been spent; instead of focusing on finding other ways to increase revenue and putting money into that, the QEC has taken ample amounts of its profits and has developed projects whose sole intention is the benefit of Qumman people.

One such project is the Fursan Community Pool, constructed towards the northern end of Fursan. Completed in the 4th Year, the pool has proven to be a great success, and is one of the top gathering spots in the town.  During the weekends, it becomes packed with children and adults alike, both of whom attempt to escape the heat by cooling down in the fresh water. Because no actual beach resorts have been developed, the Fursan Community Pool accommodates those looking for a little less wilderness and perhaps a margarita or two.



The railroad tracks leading from the Khaymeh Oil Refinery to the Fursan Oil Port has become a hotbed of activity, thanks to a new initiative introduced by the QEC in hopes of further expanding its industrial sector.  It has putting aside land to be given for free to any company or persons looking to develop the land for industrial purposes. In addition to that, in the middle of the said land, the QEC has also constructed a freight station, and has also allowed the usage of the Fursan Oil Port for small cargo and import/export activity.

This initiative has propelled several small industrial buildings to prop up next to the freight station, with almost all being warehouses. As Fursan grows, so does its commercial activities and its demand for consumer products, manufacturing products, etc, and the first thing all these products need once they get into Qumma is a place to be stored.  Since the freight station is the only stop, excluding the oil refineries, on the tracks, transportation costs are at a minimum since the warehouses are right next to the station. That is, of course, in addition to the fact that the land was leased for free to those willing to develop it.  The leased land in Fursan South Industrial Area has almost all been given away, and there is currently no plans by the QEC to add any additional land for free lease.



It hasn't only been industrial activity that has developed alongside the tracks; commercial buildings have also popped up. Next to the Fursan Power Plant, of which the tracks run right alongside of, 3 different companies have opened their doors for business.

The largest of the 3 companies is F.O.E.S. Construction Ltd., a real estate development and construction institute, and the first registered company in that field in Qumma.  The QEC gave FOES the contract for the construction of the freight station in the South Industrial Area, and it was also responsible for designing, developing, and constructing the Fursan Community Pool. It is also the largest private company in Qumma, and its current projects include designing Berber Dawa his new palace.



One thing Fursanis love is socializing, so any business that caters to that need is bound to do well in the city. The Burjuweh Inn & Restaurant's is the main example of such success stories, and the Royal Oak Pub & Inn is hoping to emulate what Garhood Burjuweh has done. The Royal Oak is owned by an English expatriate, Ben Jackson, and he has built the building using British-inspired architecture, with wood walls and a wooden roof. Berber Dawa was said to be delighted at the opening of the Royal Oak, stating that introduction of many cultures in Qumma is good for the wellbeing of the people.


The last business we are highlighting a furniture showroom called Interiors Furniture. With the influx of incoming residents, Fursani native Khalil Khloman decided to create an outlet for the new arrivals where they could buy their furniture.  The only problem Khloman had was finding a way to get his containers into Fursan without costing too much. Previously, the only way he could do that was ship to Western Sahara and rent trucks to come in to Fursan with the goods, a very costly method. However, ever since the QEC passed the law allowing small shipments and containers to use the Fursan Oil Port, Khloman has been in 7th heaven. His showroom cost approximately $300,000 to construct, but he is now averaging daily sales of almost $2,000, almost half of which is profit.

Wow, another super update.  I really like the over all feel of this MD. 
The only thing I don't like is the aburpt slope change, you can see in picture five.  It may look better if you could soften that part out.  Like a very long slope over several tiles.  Than, when looking at a picture from that high again, it would give the illusion of a gradual change and with the trees it could become almost invisible.  This is just my humble opinion though.  And whether you change it or not, I will still like this city a lot. 
I do really like how you did the industrial area and running the train line right in the middle.

&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Oh, yes, Fursam is really starting to take shape. I have to agree that the slope change is a bit jarring, but if you applied walls, it might improve things. Still, however, love the overall atmosphere of this lovely little city.

Until next time...
Joan

I like Fursan more and more... :thumbsup:

I agree with Jmouse, this city has a very specific atmosphere
Great work again!  &apls

Another outstanding update, my friend! I do agree with the others that a slope mod may help, with or without, your work is always fantastic! Keep it up!

Beautiful new update, nedalezz! :thumbsup: Great work on that! :thumbsup:

Ennedi: Thank you for the amazing compliments! I went to Google Earth myself after your comments, trying to see how realistic my region was, hehe. As for the sub-stations, I looked for them on STEX and got them, and you are right, they are a big help. They make the powerlines even more realistic. As for the white sand beaches, I like the look of them, probably because I love white sands in RL!

rooker1: I see what you are saying about the slope, but I actually intended it for it to be like that. I didnt want it to gently slope, I just wanted it to be get down to the level I wanted it quick, lol. The reason is because when I first started building Fursan, the level of a terrain was a certain level, and I decided I wanted it to be lower. Anyway, the slope will serve as the boundary for what will be the Old Town as Fursan expands ;) Thank you for the constructive criticism and the compliments!

thundercrack83: Thanks! As I mentioned above, the slope was intended to look like that.

Yoman: I would love to use SOMY's oil tanker...problem is I cant find it! And dont worry, sooner or later, farms are bound to start popping up ;)

spot: Thank you for thinking my MD is cool :)

bat: As always, thank you for the encouraging comments!

Jmouse: Actually, I use photoshop and rotate the picture I take to make the houses look like that, hehe. Its great that I have managed to give Fursan a specific and unique atmosphere for you. Thank you for being one of this MDs' biggest fans!

Perhaps this could help in your quest for the SOMY tanker - http://members3.jcom.home.ne.jp/somy000/p8.htm

Great overviews also, I can see the entire area starting to blossom. Surprising that none of that oil money went to swiss bank accounts though.

nice mini update here nedalezz and im sorry i havent been around to follow much of the progress here which has been alot and hope to catch some more soon - pat

Fursan is really looking good, nedalezz. It makes me want to revisit Africa and look at things in a somewhat different way (with a bit less culture shock, maybe!). Our next visit will be to the Gambia, but in the meanwhile, we'll have the pleasure of hosting a relative (my son-in-law's older brother) who will spend a few months with us early next year.
Keep up the good work. Your MD is unique and quite fascinating. :thumbsup:

Until nest time...
Joan

Hello nedalezz,

I just caught up with Qumma and this is an outstanding MD. Your story is excellent, photographs well composed, and development interesting. Keep up the good work and I'm looking forward to the next update.

Cheers,
Kevin

The Qumma Executive Council (QEC) promised the Qumma Oil Ministry(QOM), its first ever subsidiary, that once the oil refineries in Khaymeh and Cevella began operations, it would set aside a budget to construct its very own offices near the Khaymeh Oil Refinery.

A year later, the QEC has made good on its promise, finishing construction of the QOM new offices in Khaymeh at the end of the 4th Year, costing it a total of $400,000, including all the equipment requested.

At first sight, the QOM Main Office looks a bit small, but considering that the 2 functioning oil refineries are also rather small, they are perfect in size. In addition, Qumma is exporting to only 2 countries, Cape Verde Islands and The Gambia, so the workload is not overwhelming. The QOM will maintain its offices in the QEC Administrative Building in Fursan, as well.



As for the town of Khaymeh, it has expanded, and now has a population of approximately 3,500 people. While quite a few are workers at the two oil refineries in the area, a lot of the residents are actually new settlers who are finding that living in Khaymeh is less expensive than moving to the coast and Fursan.

The architecture in Khaymeh and the inlands is significantly different than that of Fursan and the coastal areas due to two main reasons: The coastal areas have traditionally been settled by those of Phoenician (Mediterranean) descent while the inlands are Moorish (Arab/Berber) in descent, making for different architectural styles, and also the temperature and weather conditions vary greatly. Those two reasons are why there is a sharp contrast in the way buildings are constructed.

Whoa, Khaymeh does, indeed, have a very different personality, but a nice one just the same! Looking forward to watching more development.

Until next time...
Joan

Three very nice new pictures and great update 13! :thumbsup:

KHAYMEH AND THE Q.O.M. look great.  I really love the over all feel.  Everything looks very realsitic.

&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Yoman: Thanks for the link. Actually, Berber Dawa is starting to pocket quite a few $$ thanks to the oil revenue, but the QEC has also been pretty good about using the money for development. We'll see how long they can keep it up ;)

patfirefghtr: I hope you've enjoyed the updates you missed, and I hope you'll enjoy the upcoming updates even more!

Jmouse: Thank you. When are you going to The Gambia? Like I mentioned before, alot of my family lives there, and I myself spent 3 years there (91-94), and have visited countless times the past few years. I actually might have a trip there soon, as well!

BigSlark: Thank you, thank you! Other than actually playing the game, my favorite part of SC is developing the story that comes along with the region. In addition, I love messing about with Photoshop, so to integrate all 3 things into one is always fun.

bat: Merci beaucoup! I'll try to have a larger update for Update 14.

rooker1: I try to atleast give it a decent sense of realism when I'm creating the region. I also plan to expand Khaymeh alot...sort of have it as the more Middle-Eastern, deserty city as opposed to Fursan's more Mediterrenean look.

Another fine update, nedalezz! That refinery looks fantastic! Great job!

Nedalezz i did indeed and the refinerary was top notch.... great job on it!!!  :thumbsup:

Glad the link helped. And good thing its not going to swiss bank accounts :) Great job on making the Oil town contrasting to Fursan also, a great varity you show us :)

NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! I was playing with the map config of the land, and I moved the squares...and when I loaded the game....all the cities were gonnnnnnee!!!!!! Please someone tell me I can recover them  :(

If you go to My docs -> Simcity4 -> Regions -> [Your Region] -> see if a file with your city names is there if not I think its a loss :(

If all else fails, just return to your latest backup and rebuild from there.

Until next time...
Joan

These advices are good and I haven't nothing else to say at this moment, but even if you will lose your cities, don't worry - many of us have such situations from time to time
And even if you would have to rebuild everything, you can be sure Qumma will still be alive - your viewers will look at it and help you if you will need  :) And you will be able to make many things faster and better  :thumbsup:
But of course I hope everything will be OK  :thumbsup:

Quote from: nedalezz on October 06, 2007, 12:05:16 PM

As I mentioned before, I managed, geniusly, to lose all my cities. Thankfully, looking on the brighter, they werent that big to begin with. 

Yes, you are still at the beginning :)

Quote from: nedalezz on October 06, 2007, 12:05:16 PM

I dont know if it is as good as the old Fursan, probably not

It will be better - don't try to rebuild everything, only what you like. And think rather about new ideas, than about past  :thumbsup:
If I lose something, the next one is always better  :D

Edit: and don't hurry, you don't have a schedule with the deadline ;)

You have great stuff. I found that when I lost stuff, it came back better each time. I am sure yours will as well.

I agree completely with Ennedi and Schulmanator. Whether I destroyed a region on purpose or lost it unintentionally, the next one was always better because all my past mistakes were still engraved on my brain! ???
Besides, if your regulars didn't like your work, they wouldn't be hanging out here, so it looks like you'll have plenty of support and encouragement during the rebuilding process. :thumbsup:
The new Fursan still has that misty, sunbaked look common to equatorial Africa, and the Administrative Building is very attractive. The upkeep costs on that lush green lawn must be pretty steep in such an arid environment, though! ;)

Until next time...
Joan

That's looking very great! Wonderful pictures of that town! :thumbsup:

Looking good.When you use the Lens Flare effect on the water your pictures are made much more realistic. However, your use of it on land based pictures is extremely unrealistic. I would suggest using a lighting effect as a substitute.

Indeed, Ennedi is correct, it will be better because you have the experiance of building the last one to help you. If real world cities could be rebuilt incorperating the lessons of the first one they'd all be better too :) I eagerly await more updates.

Well, I'm sorry to hear you had some problems, but the new Fursan looks fantastic, too! Like everyone said, now you have a chance to go back and change the things you didn't like! Can't wait to see more!

Thanks for the amazing support, all of you! Really, I cant state enough how much I appreciate it.

I loved the old Fursan, but the new one is kind of growing on me, as well. I like my new QEC Administrative Building alot more, and I also used a new school. I did use the old BAT for the Qumma National Bank, though, as I liked the way it looked.

Fursan now is more drawn out along the coast, instead of developing inland. I havent started on any of the refineries or Khaymeh yet, but I will soon.

I do plan on rebuilding Qala'at Turbia and the Fursan Oil Port again, although the latter will be larger than the old one.

Stay tuned, and again, thanks for all the support!

nedalezz WoW new fursan is alot better imho and great job on it.... Sorry that you did loose old Fursan but remember beauty from the ashes....

Hi Nedalezz,

I've not dropped by for a while and am sorry to hear you lost the city.  But as everyone else has said, you can keep the best bits and improve those bits you wanted to.  The new Fursan is looking good and I'm sure it will continue to grow very nicely.

Qumma is pretty unique here I think, so keep going with your own style.

Hey everyone, thanks for the amazing support! Its great to know the MD has such a great core of readers!

Im sorry about the lack of updates, Im actually on a business trip. I am attending the Canton Trade Fair in Guangzhou, China, and I will be pretty occupied from now till the end of the month.

That being said, I do plan on a few updates, with the next one being about the new Khaymeh and Khaymeh Oil Refinery. Thank you again.

Have a safe, pleasant and productive trip. We'll leave the light on for you! :)

Until next time...
Joan

I hope all is well in China, my friend! Be safe, and we'll all be here waiting to see what you've got for us next!

WoW Nedalezz i love those nite shots, they are simply beautiful!!!!

Wow! Phenomenal, my friend! I don't know if I mentioned it before or not, but I love the desert mod you're using for the ground. It looks fantastic! Keep up the good work!

nedalezz, it is just awesome to see the differences in what I'm used to and what exists halfway around the world. In the middle-class neighborhoods where I've lived, I've seen either a striking mixture of architectural styles or rows of houses shaped like Premium Saltine boxes and distinguished only by the color of their brick exterior. In Khaymeh, however, the buildings are close together and identical. Seeing the different creative approaches is part of the fun we have here at SC4D, though.
And didn't I tell you you'd like the new one better than the old one! ()stsfd()

Until next time...
Joan

Great work on this update.  I reall ylike the feeling I get when looking at these pics.  The town looks very realistic.  I like the irregular shape of the over all town and the fact that it is away from the industrial area a bit.  I think the oil pipes may look better if they were to come together at some point close to the factory, unless they curve off in two totally different directions.  Reason being, it would be cheaper to build on one small narrow porperty than on two.  Just my imagination, I don't know if this is true or not.  I love the dessert look as well, very good my friend.

&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Fantastic new pictures of Qumma! Looking forward to more...

Hi Nedelezz,

I really like the way that Fursan and Khayama look so different.  Two towns, both in the desert, both in the same region but you get them to look so very different - that is really good.

I think you have a pretty unique MD here, so I am looking forward to seeing the region grow even more.

I too like the new one more, I think its realistic that there is no railroad anymore as its just a small refinery. As always keep up the great work and I look forward to your next update :)

Well, still in the middle of my business trip to China, but I did manage to find some time to play while taking a 4 hour car ride from one city to the other! I worked on the new Fursan Oil Port, and I have come up with something larger and more realistic. All thanks goes out to SOMY and his wonderful BATS that made the port what it is. Enjoy!

Oh yes, you've done a fine job on your port, nedalezz. It does look very realistic and functional. Keep up the good work! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Very nice update and great effect used on the pics.  The port does look realistic, I just wish I could see more pictures.

&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

Stunning work on this oil port, nedalezz! I love the contrast between the desert terrain and the water with the sun reflecting off it. Great stuff! Hope all is going well in China!

Hope all is well in China, sounds like it is. Great new rendition on the port, I'm glad that link helped you, his stuff is great :D Just to let you know those are natural gas tankers, not oil, bah who cares it still looks awesome.

Also I have another suggestion, I'm not sure if you've considered it before but custom water texture as opposed to the maxis one you use now?

Its been 4 years since Berber Dawa took over the reigns in Qumma and began developing the region, and a lot of progress has been made. The population of Fursan has grown from 530 to nearly 14,000, and the tiny oasis village of Khaymeh has skyrocketed to over 5,000 people. In all, there is approximately 20,000 officially registered residence of Qumma.

Dawa'a vision of producing an oil empire in the land also came to life, as the QEC has now begun operation of two oil refineries: the Khaymeh Oil Refinery and the Cevella Oil Refinery. Both facilities have a pipeline that runs directly to the Fursan Oil Port, also operated and fully owned by the QEC.

The QOM (Qumma Oil Ministry), a division of the QEC, is in charge of all affairs to do with the natural resource, and are currently constructing their head offices in Khaymeh, closer to the refineries. As for Fursan, its main reliance continues to be fishing, with export numbers small but growing. There has been a growing commercial sector, however, with quite a few restaurants, bars, and inns opening up throughout the town.

As the 5th Year approaches, the QEC has released small information sheet about Qumma, presented below. Also, after the information sheet, there are a few pictures of Fursan at night. Enjoy!

Great night shots, nedalezz. Hope this inspiring update means your business trip was a success.

Until next time...
Joan

These are some very nice updates you have made, great work on the oil installations and these cities in the desert.

Nighttime looks outstanding, nedalezz! I like the watercolor picture! And the information you've provided on imports and exports is very interesting, too! Nice update, my friend!

rooker1: Thanks! Just tell me pictures of what you want to see, I'll gladly work out a few new angles and present them!

Yoman: Actually, Im looking for a new water mod, but I havent used any because all the ones Ive seen havent really grabbed me and said to me "Im the one." Im very open to suggestions, so if you have any ideas, please let me know!

Jmouse: Thankfully, it seemed like a good trip, business-wise. Thank you for your ever encouraging comments!

kwakelaar: Thank you! There are currently 2 refineries in operation in Qumma; the Khaymeh Oil Refinery, and the Cevella Oil Refinery, a few miles to the west of Khaymeh. As for the town itself, I think its going to experience some rapid growth.

thundercrack83: Thank you for the compliments! I like doing little information stuff because I feel it brings the MD more to life.

Next update should be in the 5-7 days; I left China, but now im in Dubai, also on business. Will be here until the 4th, but hopefully I can find time for an update in between.

Hope you have a fun time in Dubai even if it is business. Such an incredible city.

Your combination of the new Night Mod and Micklebear's lots are stunning, very inspiring and I look forward to your future progress :) Also if I see a mod I'll be sure to remember the link and post it here for you :)

EDIT - Have you taken a look at this one (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=11828)?

Gotta say that this MD is awesome! You continue to push the envelope of what SC4 can do for a custom look. Excellent!

Fantastic new updates there! Great new night shots! :thumbsup:

With Fursan advancing past 15,000 people by the beginning of the 5th Year, it was inevitable that some form of commercial activity would surface. F.O.E.S. Real Estate has been highlighted before, and it remains one of the largest companies in Qumma. The QEC relies on the construction company for a lot of their projects, including QEC Administrative Building, the Presidential Manor, and the Berber Dawa Elementary and High School.

Also opening its doors is Champion Supermaket, the first of its kind in Qumma. With approximately 1600 sq. meters of showroom space, Champion sells groceries, food products, household products, and also imports fresh fruits, meat, and vegetables from Morocco, albeit at a price. Business is going extremely well for the owner of the company, Fouad Kher, who has recently stated that his sales have far exceeded his expectations. He averages nearly $3,000 a day, as nearly all of Fursan buys its daily products from the place.



Perhaps more importantly, however, has been the development in southern Fursan; namely, the development of the newly named Presidential Lane. A huge construction project that has only been recently completed, it has become the centerpiece of the country.



On the shore, with their own private beaches, are the Royal Residence and the Presidential Manor. The Royal Residence was constructed as the Qumman home for the Dawa family, owners of the land of Qumma. Although none of them cite Fursan as their permanent home, their visits to the land have are becoming a lot more frequent with every passing year.



Right next to the Royal Residence is the Presidential Manor, currently home of Berber Dawa. He wanted to keep the homes of his family and the President separate because, as he stated, sometime in the future, the president of Qumma might not be from the Dawa family. Once Berber Dawa is succeeded by a new president, he will move out of the Presidential Manor, and back in the Royal Residence.

On the opposite side of the Presidential Lanes lies 3 of the most important buildings in Qumma; Fursan Cultural Center, Qumma Holy Mosque, and the Presidential Office.

The Fursan Cultural Center was constructed by the QEC in an attempt to protect the Qumman culture and educate any foreign interested parties about it. It acts as part museum, part convention center, and part entertainment facility. Its most important purpose, however, is to keep the Qumman culture not only alive, but to strengthen and expand it through all types of different programmes.

The Qumma Holy Mosque, or the "Red Mosque", is one of the most expensive and detailed buildings ever constructed in the country. Understanding the religious needs of its people, the Dawa family personally funded the construction of the Holy Mosque through their own means, endearing them to the locals. It has been become the landmark of Fursan since its completion, and it sits just opposite the Royal Residence and Presidential Manor on Presidential Lane.



Finally, the Presidential Office is Berber Dawa's way of separating the job of the QEC with the job of the President. The QEC has been placed to take care of domestic duties, with no political involvement whatsoever, stated Dawa in a recent press conference. This is meant to root out any hint of corruption, and ensures that the QEC works only with and for the people, with no attention paid to anything else. All the politics will be left to the Presidential Office to handle, whether it is international or domestic politics.

I have been here some time ago (sorry :)), so I must comment some previous shots of Qumma.

The refinery is small but very well done (and I'm sure it is functioning perfectly), and  like the settlement vey much. My favourites are aerial shots, they show an atmosphere of this place in an excellent way. :thumbsup:

The update fourteen is fantastic, I love the closeup of Mickbear's mediterranean houses, and again - aerial shots are simply beautiful! :D
Stars reflected in the water show a romantic side of the Mayor's soul... :thumbsup:

And the last shots show a really strong development of Fursan, it seems it is on agood way to become a desert metropoly!

Beautiful pictures, excellent expressing a specific atmosphere, an artistic way of looking at your region - it's a great pleasure for me to visit your MD!

Man, I don't post on SC4Dev, but I really love Qumma! Great job. It is nce to see one city developing, not multiple cities, like in other MD's. So on Qumma, we can see the micromanagement. And I wanted to tell you, that I wouldn't put the Presidential Manor and the Royal Residence and the presidential office in one place at the edge of the city, although these will be sorrunded by the city later, am I right? Once again: good job!

Another excellent update here. You've highlighted the development of Qumma in an excellent way and combined it with an incredible application of the Gizmo's night mod (really looks great in your cities in particular).

As always I look forward to next time ;)

Wow! Great stuff, nedalezz!

The Presidential complex with the palace and the office looks outstanding, and I love the Holy Mosque, too! An update here in Qumma always brightens my day!

Another wonderful update! Great work! :thumbsup:

Another well-done update, nedalezz. Very good photos, but the last three are especially stunning.
It has been especially interesting to watch Fursan develop since our playing styles are so different. I'm always in a hurry to fill every tile. On the other hand, you take your time and achieve spectacular results.
Keep up the good work! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Hi Nedalezz,

More great updates there.  In update 14 my favourite is the last shot of the Fursan spreading along the coast - very realistic.

In the last update I like the way you've developed Presidents Lane - I can see this will be a tourist attraction for all visitors to the region.  And The Red Mosque - is that based on the Hagia Sophia?  Great Building both in real life and in Fursan.

Enjoy your travels!

Great updates and I have to say this is one of my favorite pictures I have seen in an MD

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F5-CommercialDistrict.jpg&hash=1e892785f607d1d03aef346f5dc14c8b6c400060)

And I really like th epicture of the Jefferson Memorial, looks great there.  You take some really great pictures. Put these in the SC4 Picture competition, just your eye for the picture composition is really really good.  I love it when these pictures look like a real picture and yours do.  GREAT JOB!!!  &apls

That's right, no more flying into Western Sahara and then making the road trip that lasts hours upon hours without any end. From now on, people wanting to come to Qumma will fly into the new Berber Dawa International Airport, the new $25 million facility which intends on bringing the world closer to the country.

Under construction for just over 2 years, the BDIA is now ready for operation, capable of handling up to 2.5 million passengers a year, with 1 main terminal and 3 gates. It can also hold up to 22 private planes, providing they aren't big ones. It also features a private terminal for official flights, such as those of the Dawa family and/or their guests.

In addition to the airport, the QEC have been given the green light by Berber Dawa to acquire a Boeing 737-800, and the paperwork to officially register the plane as the first for Qumma Airways is already underway. Once completed, it is reported that QA will commence flights into Il-Ayun in Western Sahara, Nouakchott in Mauritania, and Casablanca in Morocco. Each destination will be flown to twice a week.

My goodness, you've really outdone yourself this time nedalezz. I'm wondering how you chose the airport's location. Will Fursan's development be in that direction perhaps? Also, do you plan to expand the facility eventually?
I'm curious because I'll have to build an airport one of these days, so I'm taking all the free lessons in strategy I can get! :D
Anyway, the photos look great, especially those stunning night shots.

Until next time...
Joan

Ooooh, the Berber Dawa Airport looks fantastic, my friend! It's certainly going to help the region grow, and I can't wait to see how the growth takes place!

I would move the taxiway next to the runway back a bit so that a plane can taxi there while one lands / takes off. Otherwise a great addition to the growing economy of Qumma, I can see how it would spur growth as that hours long car ride would dissuade me from visiting. Maybe next a small ferry / cruise port?

As always I look forward to your next update.

Your updates are always top quality!  ;D

Just stumbled into your MD by accident. But I just couldn't stop reading your posts and glaring at your images. Who would have ever thought that desert towns can look that amazing? I especially liked how you lately manged to combine MBears houses with the more modern ones. And Kaymeh looks so depressing....
Keep on playing, I will surely check back later.

That airport is looking very great! Wonderful work on it! And nice night shot of it! :thumbsup:

I really, really like this. I've done a couple of desert regions and one got to over 1.2 million, but yours is really classy. Keep up the excellent work.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[/size][/b]

Jmouse: Thanks for the compliment! Actually, Fursan will inevitably develop both to the north and the south, but it seems that the development to the north will be more to do with industry and manufacturing. Although there has been no official plans for the area round the airport yet, it would be a safe assumption to say that there will be alot of warehouses and such.

thundercrack83: With the new airport in place, access to Qumma has just gotten a whole lot easier. Plus, with Qumma Airways flying to its 3 new destinations, the road is open for investment!

Yoman: A cruise port would be a fantastic idea, although the QEC would have to do alot of persuading to have cruise lines start coming to Fursan. It has poured almost all of the oil money it has seen into the seaport, the airport, and the Presidential Lane, of which there is plans to build a garden around it and seal it from the public, allowing only limited access to the Red Mosque and the Cultural Center.

Schulmanator: And your comments are always appreciated! Thank you.

bblubb: Khaymeh's architecture is alot less artistic than Fursan's, but it is alot more suitable for the harsh weather the desert has to offer. And there will be more modern buildings being constructed around MBEAR's amazing set! Thank you for the compliments, and I hope you keep commenting!

bat: I love the night shots! Gizmo's new mod is amaaaaaaaaaaazing.

amapper: Wow, 1.2 million! Lol, Im on 20,000 for the entire region. But Ive always liked taking my time and concentrating on details. Im glad you like it, and I hope you keep coming back!

Limited access to the cultural center and Mosque, not sure thats a good idea, maybe to the palaces though.

This is a very impressive region with a unique style. You carry off the desert motif convincingly. Great job.

First off great last few updates here and i love the progress you have made.....

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F5-CommercialDistrict.jpg&hash=1e892785f607d1d03aef346f5dc14c8b6c400060)

Now where in the world did you find that construction site... that is wicked....

Airport is looking great!  The whole desert feel is just amazing. 

As the 5th Year draws to a close, Fursan has eclipsed 20,000 residents. Around town, one of the most common sounds is the drills and machinery of construction. As the town has grown, it has become evident that it could face two major problems if they are left unattended. The first problem is the traffic issue; the density has grown substantially, but the roads remain narrow and only capable of two lanes. Although there is no problem presently, at Fursan's rate of growth, it is inevitable if it is not taken care of now. The 2nd problem faces any business trying to open in Fursan today; there is simply a severe lack of space for construction inside the town itself.  Businesses are forced to look towards the outskirts of town, away from the center, something which negatively impacts both potential investment and potential business.

The QEC, however, believe they have come up with a solution for both these problems. They have granted permission for work on a new, as of yet unnamed avenue which will circle around the current boundaries of Fursan, before shifting towards the coast both to the north (where it will connect to the old road that heads towards the Fursan Oil Port), and to the south (where it will replace the road that heads in that direction just to the south of the new Berber Dawa Royal Park.)

The current town of Fursan is already being dubbed as the "Old Town" by locals as they witness the construction the new avenue, along with the construction of buildings around it. The QEC has been careful, however, with the land around the avenue; it has been giving the plots to the public one by one. As the avenue expands, they present the plots connected to it, but they are not presenting any plots that the avenue has not passed through yet.

A few more businesses have opened in the area, namely Waddle's Restaurant, and the general store called Dollar General, in direct competition with Champion Supermarket. Fouad Kher, the owner of Champion Supermarket, made it a point to slash prices on the opening day of Dollar General, and has further reduced his margin in hopes of maintaining his daily sales. Dollar General, which is owned by a consortium, has begun importing its own brand of foodstuff, differentiating itself from the competition. Daily sales for Champion Supermarket have been approximately $3,500, while Dollar General daily sales hover around $2,750.



The St. Patrick Cathedral, built on the outskirts of the new commercial district, is the one of the tallest buildings in all of Qumma. It was constructed by the QEC itself for its minority catholic citizens, after opening the Qumma Holy Mosque to the public. Not wanting to alienate any of its citizens, the QEC put money and constructed the cathedral according to an approved drawing by the catholics in town. The end result left everybody happy, with the cathedral having been given land in the Catholic Quarter of Fursan.



Finally, the QEC have constructed the Berber Dawa Royal Park around the Presidential Lane, in order to clamp down on visitors to the area. A pass must be given to any visitor at both ends of the Presidential Lane, and the only buildings which can be visited are the Qumma Cultural Center and the Qumma Holy Mosque. The other 3 buildings are strictly off limits and any trespassing is a direct criminal offense that is taken very seriously.



To end things off, here are two aerial shots of Fursan: the first is a night shot, and the second is one of me playing around with Photoshop. Enjoy!

Very nice piece of history/news and awesome pics my friend.  I really like the construction sites, very nice touch.  The night shots look very good as well.
I also like the star effect you used in the night shots on the water.  ;)
&apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:

You are a genius my friend!

Even though Fursan has outgrown its original bounds you keep everything interesting. I wonder how long until the first apartment tower? *cough* cal's new one would look great near the coast *cough* :P

I'm glad that anyone with a pass can still visit the cultural center and mosque as well :)

As always I look forward to next time, how long until a small bulk port becomes necessary  :thumbsup:?

Love the growing of Fursan, love the expansion. And I wait for the first not-mediterranean residential blocks too appear - maybe to house the poor.
Good job!

Fursan is really growing rapidly, nedalezz. As always, you are taking the time to show things like construction sites which make me feel almost like a part of the development process. I feel like I'm there witnessing the growth and increasing strength of Fursan.
The photos are great and you already know how I feel about night shots! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Man Nedalezz that was a stunning Update, very goood my friend and wonderful job on Qumma!!!

The second picture from the top is breathtaking...Well, they all are, I should say! But that second one, I caught myself staring at it for a while, the angle and the lighting. It's just fantastic! Keep up the good work, my friend! I love visiting here!

Great pictures at day and night! Great work there! The last picture of that 17^th Update is looking wonderful! :thumbsup:

Very nice overview pictures, and some great work with the LotEditor. The pictures from the construction of the new avenue is a great way of presenting new developments. I always enjoy the slow growth of your cities and how you describe in detail what is happening.

kwakelaar: I actually have never used LotEditor, lol. I dont even know how to! I enjoy slowly developing the city, as I tend to like a relaxed pace to everything I do. Thanks for commenting!

bat: Thanks! Im glad you liked that last pic; for some reason, as I was playing around with Photoshop, it just struck me really well.

thundercrack83: I gave that second one the ol' rotate with Photoshop, and then used a bit of the sharpen tool to get that look. I think it might be one my favorites shots of all time, actually, that I have personally taken. Thanks for the continuous comments, always appreciated!

patfirefghtr: Thank you, my friend! Hope you enjoy the upcoming updates as well.

Jmouse: The oil money is being poured into infrastructure, and Fursan really is seeing the benefits. I try to keep it as detailed as possible, hoping that I would have the very same affect that it seems to have on you, so thats perfect! As always, thank you for the very kind words! And I'll make sure to always try to include some night shots in every update!

BoKriF: Sooner or later, someone has to construct a residential block...it would only make sense! Thanks for commenting.

Yoman: Lol, as I stated above, its bound to happen. I dont know when exactly, and Fursan is still technically a very small town (20,000), but its growth has continued to pick up. Who knows, it could hit 100,000 sooner than we thought at this rate. And the QEC totally agrees about the bulk port, it is starting to be desperately needed!

rooker1: Im glad you liked the star effect! I originally didnt know how it would turn out, but I was pleasantly surprised by the result! I like adding those little piece of information along with the pictures of some of the landmarks almost as much as I like taking the pictures themselves! Thanks for the compliment.

tkirch: Merci! The airport took a bit of effort to get everything the way I wanted, but I am happy with the results, and I am glad you liked it too.

spa: Wow, its an honour to have you comment on my MD, as I consider you a SC legend! I adore your BATS, especially some of your latest, northeast atlantic region ones. Thanks for dropping by.

I agree with your reply that detail is more important than shear size. You've done a fantastic job with this MD.  One of the best looking around.  :thumbsup:

Nedalezz i do so look forward to the next update, Im still wondering where you gotten that construction set in the pic i brought over if you know where i can get that, it would be great thank you - pat

A lot of the focus of the QEC has been on Fursan, mainly because of all the important developments taking place there. There has been the Berber Dawa International Airport, the Presidential Lane and all of its buildings, the Fursan Oil Port, amongst others. However, the town of Khaymeh has also been seeing a lot of developments, thanks to the cash inflow from being the oil refinery town of Qumma.

The most significant addition to Khaymeh is the Al-Iman Mosque, built on the new avenue which is being constructed to accommodate future growth. The mosque was Khaymeh's answer to Fursan's Holy Mosque, or the Red Mosque, and because the town is more conservative and rooted in Islam than its coastal compatriot, it has become the center of Islamic teaching as well as the base of some of the most important Imams in the country. It is smaller than the Red Mosque, but the inside finishing cost a lot more money, totaling $11 million upon completion. It has become Khaymeh's trademark building.



Right next to the mosque sits the newly constructed Berber Avenue, named after the leader of Qumma. The QEC, anticipating further growth in the center of Khaymeh, and not wanting to make the same mistake as they did in Fursan where they had to develop a new avenue to accommodate the businesses on the outskirts of the town, has drawn up the avenue directly through the city.  They have also wisely left ample space on both sides of the avenue for commercial development, moving the residential developments further away from the avenue.

Land has been purchased in droves and is a very hot commodity near the avenue, with construction booming all along it. The cost of 1 square meter along it has risen to $200, the most expensive in all of Qumma, and it is expected to continue to rise. Because of the town's proximity to the oil refinery, as well as being on the crossroads between the coast and the inlands, business has picked up substantially more than Fursan. While the coastal city has a reliance on services (airport, seaport, banks), Khaymeh has become Qumma's trading hub, which has been the main reason for its population growth, which is now at approximately 15,000.

One of the same reasons Khaymeh is developing so fast is also the QEC's biggest headache; its close proximity to the Khaymeh Oil Refinery. With the city developing so quick, the QEC is having a hard time keeping Khaymeh's business district central, as it has forbidden further construction on the road leading to the refinery. Instead, construction is now developing mostly eastward and southward, making the business district further and further on the corner of the town.  It hopes that with the development of the avenue, it can begin further construction the south, and once it reaches an acceptable distance from the refinery, it can begin construction westward to counter the eastward development.

Great newest update there, nedalezz! Fantastic work! :thumbsup:

Another fine update ;D I'm glad to see both major cities (well not really cities) of the country developing strong, good thing they built that avenue now as compared to later also.

About the bulk port I have two props that may help (one isn't done quite yet but should be done by the end of the week).

The completed one is this old crane. (http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/yoman3/Crane.jpg)

The other is a pile of grain ;D

As always I look forward to future development!

Nedalezz anther perfect update here my friend wow, great history line and pics to flow with it!!! see you next update - pat

Fantastic update as usual, nedalezz. I think the QEC made the right decision in building the avenue before it's needed. Also, it's a good idea to leave plenty of room around it in case it ever needs to be converted to a highway.
And the mosque was worth every Simoleon! It's beautiful. :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Hi Nedalezz,

I've not popped in for a while, sorry been busy preparing the tournament!  And hey, you've been busy.

I like the airport, I think what you have built here is a realistic airport for the sixe of your region so far.  And of course you have so much space to build new terminals, taxiways and runways if and when required.

Fursan is really starting to grow now.  I love update 17.  You give us such nice details about the city growth and make it so interesting.  And I particularly like the Presidents Park.  That looks, just sooooo classy.  Picture 7 is really good as it shows just how the city is developing.  I hope Waddles has a bit TV screen so the citizens can watch the progress of Fursan FC in the tournament!

It's interesting to see the difference between your two cities.  Khaymeh looks much more grid like and more modern.  I'm impressed you achieve this difference.  I know it's so easy for all cities in a region to morph into clones of each other!  Your description of what is happening and why is very good.

I look forward to more.

Hello nedalezz,

I missed a few updates and now I see a really strong development in Qumma!
New commercial objects look great and I'm sure they will increase further growth of this area.

Berber Dawa has really high planning skills and he has a great vision! It is also very important he takes care about the spiritual aspect of Qumman's life, and it's a great thing there is a spirit of tolerance here! &apls
(If our leaders in RL would think in similar way, our life would be completely different... ;) Most simple people understand it, why leaders don't? ;))

As always, great general views, interesting photoshopping and beautiful night shots!  :thumbsup:

Good luck for you and for Qumma!

I am very glad to see how you have made an excellent use of my BATs in your region, this is fabulous work, and in a setting that I didn't even think about. Desert MD with lush Mediterranean architecture...

FANTASTIC UPDATE!

I love the mosque, the night picture is amazing.

I also love the way a city just grows in the desert its so unique to all the journals.

[/b]

tkirch: All credit goes to Gizmo's Mod for the night pics, simply incredible! Desert Mods have their difficulties to work with, but they also look great when done right, which is what Im hoping to do!

mickebear: Honestly speak, your MED Set is, in my opinion, by far the best series of BATS ever released for the game. Qumma wouldnt even exist without your set. Im so honoured you have commented on my MD, and Im even more honoured that you have given your personal approval! This MD can be classified as half yours if anything, and I do hope you bless it with your presence every once in a while :)

Ennedi: The MD/City Building Master! Indeed, tolerance is one of the key characteristics of the Qummans, which is why they managed to stay out of any war that happened to circulate the globe at any time. Berber Dawa's personal pockets have been benefiting from the oil money, ofcourse, but development has also been the number one priority for the QEC, and results are being shown everyday. Thank you for the wonderful comments.

paroch: Qumma is still celebrating Fursan FC's dizzyingly fabulous 5-1 victory! In fact, Waddle's Restaurant was the spot to be for the viewing of the match! The airport was built a bit far away from Fursan for that specific reason; if ever expansion would be needed, there would be ample space for such a project. While Fursan is more artistic, more freelance, and perhaps more moderate, Khaymeh's architecture is rigid because of the harsher weather in land. The grids represent the more Arabic feel of the city, while Fursan's growth tends to be more Mediterrenean. Thank you for the wonderful comments!

Jmouse: The mosque is, ofcourse, Simgoober's work, so all credit goes to him! Thanks for the compliments, and I believe the QEC did the right thing as well in leaving space alongside the avenue for future developments, which is inevitable really. Already, as seen from the pictures, buildings are under construction!

Pat: I try to bring Qumma to life as much as I can, and a good way to do that is to add little tidbits about landmarks and such. I enjoy writing the storyline as much as I enjoy playing the game! Also, take a look at your messages if you havent already, I sent you the link for the construction site.

Yoman: With trade increasing substantially, containers full of goods are starting to be more common, and the Oil Port is not able to handle too much container loads. Keep this on the downlow, but the QEC is already planning to build an adjacent seaport to the oil port for specifically bulk containers, but rumour has it they are looking to contract a foreign company. Stay tuned for more!

bat: Thanks! By the way, I loved your last update with the region shot, it was great!

amapper: Wow, thats a very flattering compliment! Merci! Qumma is growing, but at the pace I want it to, and a pace I am comfortable with. I hope the story is entertaining you while you watch it grow!

Oops, missed an update there! Sorry about that!

The construction on Berber Avenue looks great! I can't wait to see it when it's all finished. And I'll be looking forward to seeing who bids on your port, too! Take care, my friend!

Thank you soo very much Nedalezz for that link... Far as needing help with a seaport i cant help there as New Castia is also in need of a seaport as well... Currently "The Devolpment Group of Robin Emilin" is trying to develop a good plan for the "New Castia International Shipping Port"...

Well we don't really have companies per say in PSSO, everything is state owned. However the Ministry of Transportation, responsible for all infrastructure in the PSSO, is offering it's extensive engineering and construction services after being directed to do so by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Here are some quite glimpses at some of the conceptual models for current PSSO Port Facilities. (Really they're BATs I'm working on right now that should be done soon :P). If you accept the Ministries offer we shall release the plans for these structures to be used in your port. 
Thing (http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/yoman3/ContainerCraneOdessa.jpg) & Thing (http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/yoman3/ContainerCrane-2.jpg)
Thing (http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/yoman3/pilespilespilespiles1.jpg)
Thing (http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/yoman3/FloatingDrydock.jpg)
(Those are all different pictures). Clearly all still need textures :P And of course theres that crane I already showed you ;D

Don't repost those links to anyone please, as I'm trying to keep this project semi secret :P

Not anymore :P

Well,
Liberty Islands government forwarded your message to the related companies. I hope, next time, maybe thursday, I can provide some of the reference pictures.
Liberty Islands is famous of its trade history, as in the 18th, 19th and 20th century it was and still is a major hub for Trans-Atlantic searoutes (and air routes too). It is due to Liberty Islands location on the Northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, between North America and Europe.

Szekeres Kikötõ Kivitelezõ és Üzemeltetési Társaság (Szekeres Harbour Construction and Management Company)
was the first applier for the job in Qumma. This Szekeres company is part of the Szekeres syndicate, which is originated back to the 1870's when it was just a new kind of family company. Nowodays, the Szekeres Group is one of the biggest corporation in Liberty Islands. Its businesses cover a lot of aspects of the economy, ranged from farming to infrastructure contractors and energetic companies. This company owns and maintains the port of Alsószekeres. It builded the port of Révkút and the old ports of Szabadrév (capital of Liberty Islands). It also owns one-third of the port of Novgorod.
The Liberty National Gas Company (LNG) and the Liberty Oil Company would invest in the contsruction of the port in Qumma. (These companies own the 55% share of the mentioned Novgorod port, which also serves the Novgorod oil refinery.)
Because of highly important foreign investment, the state owned Liberty Investment Group (LIG) would also participate in this business, and would organize the whole investment.
It is still unclear but, as Qumma experiences nice economic growth, the Liberty Fund is considering this investment. (Liberty Fund is famous of its enormous investments worldwide, as most of the oil money, the state budget surplus and the Pension Fund handles their money to this company.)

The LIG would organize the Szekeres company's the the LNG's and Liberty Oil's investment in Qumma, by setting up a common company with the QEC, and opening an office in Fursan.

Of course this option can change, if it is requested. Liberty Islands' foreign investments are flexible.

If you proceed with my option, Liberty Islands would also like to open a consulate in the future.
(Sorry if I posted too long. I hope you don't mind that my MD is located on the ST, it doesn't have shadow here. See the link in my signature.)

I just have to say yoman those are wicked toys you are making... BTW The Devolpment Group of Robin Emilin is willing to offer any services needed after a brief confrence with the board of directors... They are prepared to offer to you any lots that may need to be desinged to your requirements..

First and foremost, the QEC thanks you on behalf of Mr. Berber Dawa for your interest in the construction of the new Fursan Seaport. We are already overwhelmed by both the professionalism and size of the companies which have expressed their desire to take-over this project, which is figuring to be the biggest investment Qumma has seen as of yet. We want to strongly express that while there will be only one company that will be given the contract to develop the Fursan Seaport, there is no chance we will let any of the interested parties walk away empty-handed.

Qumma has not established any official diplomatic or political contact with any nation in the world, as of yet. Economically, our oil is being exported to Gambia, Cape Verde Islands, Guinea-Bissau, with a deal in the works involving Senegal. We have very little other export to speak of, but most of that is sent to Western Sahara and Morocco. As for importation, almost all of our products come by way of Morocco and Mauritania, something which will change significantly once the Fursan Seaport is completed.

In other words, not only does the QEC express its desire to economically develop ties with each of the interested parties, but it is also interested in developing diplomatic, political, and cultural ties, as well. It is clear that Qumma is at the foothold of an unheralded time of development, both within its infrastructire and within its economy. The QEC cannot possibly expect itself to be the contractor for all its development, so it is only logical that it looks to the outside world for help in that department. The finances are there; it is just the expertise that is lacking.

With the Fursan Seaport as its first major contract to be given to a foreign company, we are both cautious, optimistic, and excited about the project. The PSSO's proposal has left most within the QEC speechless, with Mr. Berber Dawa himself applauding the presentation upon its completion. To think such technology would be available and installed here in Qumma leaves us drooling at the prospect.

However, given that both the Szekeres Harbour Construction and Management Company and The Development Group of Robin Emilin have both expressed interest in taking over the project, a fair chance must be given to both. We are currently awaiting the second part of the proposal from the former, due anytime now. As for the latter, we kindly ask the company to give us, at minimum, a brief description of the units that will be installed, as to have an idea. Because of the promptness of the situation, we ask that any proposals be sent before Tuesday (November 27th). We dont wish to rush anyone, but we hope we can get this project off in a timely manner.

We would also like the interested parties to know that ownership of the Fursan Seaport will divided on a 51%-49% basis, with the slight majority given to the QEC.

As for the Liberty Investment Group and Liberty Fund, there is no doubt within the QEC that something can be worked out involving their investment in the country. It is an exciting proposal, and considering Qumma is basically being contructed from nothing, there is lots to be done, and lots of investments to be had. Once ties between the Libertay Islands and Qumma develops, we certainly see alot of business that will take place.

Again, the QEC and Mr. Berber Dawa wish to thank all the parties for their expressed interest. We hope that this will be the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship between Qumma and all those who have replied.

The transcript is a clever idea, nedalezz. IMO, if you're going to have a story-based MD, it's important to stay in character. Describing the negotiations in diplomatic terms definitely moves the story forward.
Fursan is really growing, and the photos look great as always. Thanks for including a couple of night shots! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Great pictures at night there, nedalezz! The third is also wonderful! :thumbsup:

Your transcript is an interesting proposition and one which the West End Development Corporation would like to be involved with.  We are realistic however, and know that with only one sea port built in West End (at Great Portland) to date, our corporation does not have the expertise or skill that other groups possess.  The West End Development Corporation will send a PM to Berber Dawa with some shots of the Great Portland Port and a list of the lots available for use.

In the meantime, on behalf of the West End Regional Government, we seek to build and extend diplomatic, cultural, sporting and economic links with Qumma.

The people of West End are impressed with the work done to date in Qumma and also with the vision held by the QEC and Berber Dawa himself.  We would like to propose the following:

Diplomatic:
West End will open a consulate in Fursan.  This will enable citizens of West End to have a local contact point during their visits to Qumma.  This will also enable citizens of Qumma to learn more about West End and apply for visas for travel to West End.
The consulate will also house a Trade & Investment Department.  This will enable West End businesses to travel to Qumma and seek contracts and business from local companies and government in Qumma.
We are happy to be housed in a building of the QEC's choice, or will submit plans for our own building.
We also invite Qumma to open an embassy or consulate in any of the West End cities.

Cultural:
We invite Qumma to provide a display at the Imperial Museum in Regent, West End. The Imperial Museum is home to many great exhibits from all over the SimNations and we know the people of West End would flock to see exhibits from Qumma.
We also invite you to send your finest performers to West End.  The Opera House in Regent is the high spot for culture in West End, although a larger, grander theatre is planned in Oxford.  In return, The West End Symphony Orchestra would welcome the opportunity to play in Fursan.
We would love to build something for the people of Qumma, but West End has no great architects and the Batting skills in the nation are zero!
We would also welcome a suggestion from the people of Qumma as to an appropriate building to build in West End to mark our new cultural ties.

Sporting:
Fursan FC have already played in West End and their fans and players have been welcomed in the city of Great Portland.  We hope that regular matches between Fursan FC and the teams in West End can be arranged. 
We have not seen a stadium in Qumma yet, and whilst West End architects cannot Bat, they can build and will be happy to send a file of a stadium to grace your fine region.
West End would also be pleased to learn of the sports that are popular in Qumma and will be happy to try and play your nation at these sports.

Economic:
The nation of Qumma is a land of economic opportunity and us West Enders are keen to help your growing nation in any way we can.  Our nation is blessed with fertile land and deposits of iron and coal.  Your nation is blessed with oil and maybe some other minerals we have yet to learn about.  We are happy to work with you so that both nations can benefit from each others resources.  We have a highly developed manufacturing and high tech industries.  One of our largest manufactures (Helvetia Corp) is keen to open a plant in Qumma to manufacture aerospace equipment and I am sure that this plant will bring benefits to both Qumma and West End.
The West End Aviation Authority have also granted a license to Qumma Airways to begin a scheduled service to Portland Regional Airport.  We have a new airport currently in the planning phase and will grant landing slots when this opens.


Our nation is also young and has plans for growth.  We currently have approximately 430,000 residents, many of whom are from different countries.  We welcome the opportunity to work closer with a nation that is also young and currently growing larger and stronger.

From the people and the regional government of West  End

          Qumma is innovative, entertaining, and above all, beautiful. Simply amazing work here...one day I'd like to reach the level of wizardry you have.  $%Grinno$%

-Jamie

I have just sent an extensive PM regarding the proposal and a few other things has just been sent ;D

I see Fursan is becomming more modern also, just watch the growth of strip malls and huge parking lots, that would be disgusting :P

Great great work Nedalezz ,  :thumbsup: you're successfully building your world with its own originality and it's very interesting to look at this city growing  ... Your night shots using Gizmo's Mod are among my favorites even if I don't use it myself as the way how the supposed most enlightened areas ( roads and avenues ) are the darkest with , alas !

From desert to a flagrant rose , indeed !

&apls &apls &apls

We will take a break from the increasingly urbanized areas of Fursan and Khaymeh today and head deeper into Qumma to Naba'a, a small village next to a very small lake, also by the same name. The history of the village is unknown, as there is no recorded history of the place, but the residents claim it has been around for hundreds of years. From the architecture, it appears to have been settled by descendents of the Phoenician explorers which settled on the Qumman coast thousands of years ago. The biggest mystery in Naba'a is the church which it seems to have been built around. No one knows quite how it got there, and no one understands why all the residents of this village are of Christian descent in this overwhelmingly Muslim area.

The village is made up of approximately 600 residents, and appears to have remain unchanged throughout its history. The residents live off of the land, which is unusually fertile thanks to the lake. The soil is very rich surrounded the water, and has such been used to grow wheat, fruits, grapes and grapevines (a local speciality), amongst other things.

Recently, the QEC has initiated the Qumma Agricultural Reform Project, or QARP, which aims at increasing agriculture in the country, especially around such watering holes where the land tends to be very fertile. The first directive of QARP has been to support and increase production of the farms in and around Naba'a by giving them an outlet for export to Khaymeh and Fursan. Once a week, trucks from both towns will come, and the QEC will pay the farmers for their products before delivering them to Fursan and Khaymeh, where it is then sold and distributed to the grocery stores and supermarkets. The good thing is the QEC doesn't make any profit on the matter; it calculates the buying price + transportation costs and sells it to the buyers at exactly that price. It works out for everyone.


Naba'a, you ask? A lovely little village, with the best grapes in the world. What's that you say? You want to know a little bit more about the place? Well, you've come to the right place. Hussein Ja'afar, which is me by the way, the local Qumman encyclopedia.

Naba'a doesn't have the folklore or the passion behind it like Qal'at Turbia, but its story is one of great hope in times of great despair. Many years ago, perhaps over a thousand years ago, settlers from the coast living the same area fought, and at the end of this battle, the victors evicted the 3 families which had began the fight against them.

Marching inland for weeks, food supplies began running out, and fresh water was becoming scarce. Hope was running out for the members of the 3 families, and one by one they began losing any desire to live, believing they were doomed to die. Amongst the 3 families was a Christian missionary, having came from Spain and traveled the coast of North Africa as part of his work. Before the fight broke out back near the coast, he dreamt of a church standing solitary in the middle of the desert next to a pond. Once it became clear that the families were to be evicted, he figured out what his dream meant and went with the families.

While the families kept their treacherous trek through the desert looking for any sign of vegetation or life, the missionary was looking for any hints or clues. It would come to him the night all the drinking water ran out. At the time, all members of the 3 families were pagans, and refused any of the teachings the missionary presented them. The night the water ran out, there was a sandstorm, a heavy one that caused extra stress and discomfort for the wandering party. When morning came, however, sticking out of the ground were 4 rocks, forming a rectangle, almost like pillars.

The missionary pleaded for the families to stop and to help him begin constructing a church, which they refused to do at first. Using the heavy rocks from the area, the missionary began constructing the church himself, and no sooner had he laid down the first one, did water start appearing out of the ground to the north of the site. They had discovered a watering hole in the middle of the desert.

The families became instant converts, the church was built, and the village was formed, with the natives taking up farming. Since then, Naba'a has been a most welcoming place for those traveling the desert. It certainly has been for me. Till next time, my friends...

Excellent history of the church, nedalezz, and a stunning picture of it. It will be interesting to watch this little desert town develop.

Until next time...
Joan

Again wonderful pictures! And beautiful overview of that area! :thumbsup:

DIPLOMATIC: We welcome the nation of West End to officially initiate diplomatic relationship between herself and Qumma, making it the very first nation to do so in the history of our country. At last count, there was no citizens of West End residing in Qumma, although we did have a family which came through as tourists in the 5th Year.

We believe having an official embassy or consulate in Fursan would be the first, and most important, step into strengthening any relation between the two countries. In response, Qumma will also send an official ambassador to West End to serve in its first ever overseas office, to be officially known as the Consulate of Qumma in West End.



CULTURAL:  Considering the population of Qumma (approximately 45,000), it comes as no surprise that we have no registered "professional" artists or musicians of any kind. Fursan and their artistic talent, while residents who live inland in areas such as Khaymeh or known as scholars and intellectuals. Having said that, talent is abundant in the field of art throughout the country, and we certainly could pick a few talented artists to fly over to West End for a small showcase. As for the Imperial Museum, it would be an honor for the QEC to be allowed to exhibit some of Qumman culture in West End, and we have decided to put on display the historic sword of Danca Okhdo, known as the greatest female warrior in Qumman folklore history.

The QEC would also like to organize a 3 day weekend event at the Fursan Cultural Center featuring some of West End's finest artistic and scholarly talent. The event, to be called The West End Experience, would feature several performances, preparation of West End speciality foods, a large display hall for West End art, as well as a cultural exchange between high school students of the two countries.



SPORTS: We are very proud of Fursan FC and their performances in the inaugural West End Football Tournament, and we are certain it has been brought to the authorities attention in West End that Berber Dawa will be attending the Semi-Finals and the Finals himself.

The Qumman love of sports is well renowned, and we are none to have very talented individuals, although there is no such thing as a professional athlete yet in Qumma. Our newly formed Qumma Sports Ministry has been given the job of taking care of the very basic infrastructure which we hope to place in and around Fursan and Khaymeh. Our largest sporting field is situated in our school. Currently, the QEC has no plans to construct a large stadium capable of holding more than Qumma's entire population combined!



ECONOMIC: This is certainly a very intriguing and exciting field for the QEC. Since the oil money started rolling in, we have been working around the clock improving the nation, and we believe we have come a long way since we first started operating in the 1st Year.

We currently have a large difference between the amount of barrels of oil we are producing a day and the barrels we are ABLE to produce a day. The QEC is very interested in working out some kind of Free Trade Agreement between Qumma and West End, where our oil would be levied a significantly lower tax in West End than oil from elsewhere. As for Qumma, we currently have no import tax to speak of, which makes it a very good location for trade or even manufacturing.

We are flattered that the Helvetia Corp. would consider Qumma for a new plant, but we have neither the workforce nor the talent to support such a big manufacturing project. While we would love to have them build a factory in Qumma, we cannot realistically expect them to maintain profits as the land, currently, is not capable of supporting it.

We do, however, recommend to the West End Development Corporation to suggest to smaller companies looking for another location to expand to, especially companies that manufacture what is known as Building Materials, such as steel products, cement products, wood products, zinc products, etc. We believe such companies would reap huge benefits not only from our No Import Tax policy, but our desire to become a trade center between Africa, Europe, Middle East, South America, & North America.

The QEC is aware that its only export of significance is Oil, but this will change in the future. We have uncovered huge deposits of rare minerals such as Diamonds in our more mountainous areas, and we certainly anticipate manufacturing firms to begin opening up before long. As such, the QEC would also like the West End Development Corporation to relax its import tax on any Qumman company interested in trade with West End.

In conclusion, the QEC and Mr. Berber Dawa are very exciting about the prospect of furthering relations with West End, and look forward to taking the next step in doing so.

Great updates, fascinating quality.

I just sent a PM about Liberty Islands' intentions. And there is no secrecy about that PM, I just didn't want to full this MD with my own text.

Another fine update from you  ;D It is indeed extremely interesting that the entire town is Christians though if that myth is true then I can see why. It is also interesting to note that there is no road connection to the outside world, how do they get the stuff they don't grown? Or has the lifestyle remained the same for the past hundreds of years?

Especially lovin' the Naba'a. Farms = love...great effects too. Great work as usual!

Your farms are outstanding, my friend! Great work! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!

Hello Nedalezz,

The first thing I have to do today is congratulate you, Berber Dawa, Amadou Khalilo and all the players of Fursan FC on winning the West End International Trophy
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg410.imageshack.us%2Fimg410%2F5356%2Ftrophy3kt5.jpg&hash=1faa853dcc3ab0dce0729754a7e5c3e797ccd5f4)
Your team played brilliantly and were deserving winners of the tournament.

The fans from Qumma also brought a party atmosphere to the tournament and will long be remembered in West End.  They supported their team passionately:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg502.imageshack.us%2Fimg502%2F8562%2Fghanayo8.jpg&hash=0fe2d1f6414ffb255f133511e5c592ce6f186f11)

I am sure the people of Fursan and Qumma will give them a homecoming to remember.


And thanks for your Transcript to West End.  The Qumman consulate has been planned for the city of Oxford - I will PM you the plans to make sure they meet with the approval of Berber Dawa.
Crowds have flocked to see the Danca Okhdo at the Imperial Museum and the display of Qumman art has also proven very popular.
In return the chefs of West End are frantically preparing the famous West End dishes of Fish & Chips, Roast Beef,  and Chicken Tikka Masalla!

Our Industrial and Business brains are working on something for the Qumma-West End project, I'll keep you posted.

The greetings of the people of West End are sent with warmth to Qumma!

I hope I can be forgiven for the lack of updates! RL has been keeping really busy due to the Christmas season, but I do hope to have an update up before Monday.

Just some quick bits of information: The Fursan Seaport contract has been officially given to the PSSO (Yoman), and a delegation will fly to Fursan for final talks on the matter and others. The QEC will also be hosting 2 other delegations: one for West End (Thanks for the great tournament!), and one from the Liberty Island!

All will be RPed in the next update. Till then, stay safe!

The delegation departed this morning on an An-122 bound for Qumma. Thank you for accepting our proposal.

On the given day, Liberty Islands Foreign Ministry is going to send their officials with the businessmen of the Liberty Investment Group. Others will come as talks develope also the secretary for sports sends his congratulations to Qumma on winning the West End International Trophy: Great achievement from such a small country.
By the way the Foreign Ministry sent its proposal to the two houses of legislative about lifting immigration, work, travel and other restrictions in front of Qumma. The related committees will make their decisions on this week.
The Szekeres Harbour Construction and Management Company sends its congratulations to the PSSO!

The 6th Year has proven to be a benchmark in Qumman history; Fursan FC victory in the West End Football Tournament has sent raptures throughout the land, and the people of Qumma, all 50,000 of them, are still riding high from that enthralling win.

Qumma's move to join the international community has so far been well received, especially by West End and the Liberty Islands. In addition, the QEC have also contracted, for the first time, an international firm to develop its largest project of all time thus far; the Fursan Seaport. It was given to the People's Socialist State of Odeschnya, or the PSSO.

Before we get started on the news, we want to present a picture of Berber Dawa's new Residence. After constructing the Presidential Residence and the Royal Residence, Berber Dawa has built is own private mansion close to Presidential Lane, for when he steps down as leader of Qumma.





Originally planned a 3-day event, it has since been extended to an entire month. The West End Experience, as the event has been named, features everything from West End artistic and musical talent, to West End cuisine, to live interaction between West End students and Qumman students. The event is free to the public, and is meant to promote the growing relationship between the two nations.

The QEC has also started drawing blueprints for the West End embassy in Fursan, which would indicate the start of the official relationship between them. The Qumman Embassy in Oxford has already begun operation, and 4 students from the Fursan High School have already left to West End thanks to the new exchange program heralded between the two delegations.

Further discussions were about bringing in West End companies to open their doors in Qumma; most notably, in the industrial sector. The QEC has been given full approval by Berber Dawa to allow such companies to come, and the QEC is now waiting on the West End delegation to provide it with the names, field, and employment size of the manufacturing companies.




Although the Szekeres Harbour Construction and Management Company lost out on the bid for the Fursan Seaport, the Liberty Islands meeting the QEC was about so much more. Potentially the single biggest investor in Qumma, the first act the delegation presented to the QEC was its proposal to lift all visa and working permit requirements on all Qumman citizens traveling or hoping to live in the North Atlantic state.

With the beginning of the official relationship between these two friendly nations has come the construction of the LI Embassy in Fursan, in order to further facilitate the growth of the relationship. As such, the Qumman Embassy is also under construction in LI, and the Qumman Ambassador to the Liberty Islands has already been assigned.

The most important invest LI has made in Qumma, however, is the construction and partial management of the new University of Liberty Islands in Qumma, or ULIQ. Although most of the administration will be run by Qummans and the QEC, it will branched out of the LI's superior educational system, in the hopes that the very first university to open its doors in Qumma will mold its next generation into something special.

In addition, LI has been presented with land to the north of Fursan to begin constructing a new foodstuff related factory. Although it will be small scale, it will distribute locally, and the QEC has also put forward a plan to help the company distribute in the region, to countries such as Senegal, Mauritania, Western Sahara, Gambia, and Cape Verde. The QEC has requested the name, specific field, and specific employment numbers of the company from LI. 

The QEC has also mentioned that it will be opening its construction and development sector to LI companies, if agreed upon by the LI Investment Group. With the construction mini-boom taking place in Qumma, F.O.E.S Construction, the only registered development company owned by Qummans, is unable to keep up. Originally, the QEC has wanted to keep a very tight control policy on foreign construct and instead has sought to give the projects to Qumman companies, but the demand has far exceeded the supply. As such, the QEC will give way to two LI construction companies of their own choice, to begin operations in Fursan and Khaymeh.




The single largest project undertaken in Qumma has been given to the PSSO to construct, and afterwards, to partially manage and own. In a deal that has been called the biggest in Qumman history, the PSSO will own 49% of the Fursan Seaport, with the QEC taking 51%. In a phenomenal gesture, the PSSO has stated that it will give 19% of its earnings back to Qumma for development of infrastructure for the Qumman people.

After a breath-taking presentation, a Qumman delegation was flown to PSSO to witness its own harbor in action, and to say that they were impressed would be a very big understatement. In the words of the Qumman delegate, "Such technology, professionalism, efficiency...for that to be available in Fursan is something we have never dreamed of."

Talks have also been started, although not finalized, about the export of crude oil to the PSSO, to be refined there, and it is something the QEC continues to look at. The PSSO embassy is also under construction in Fursan, and would make it the third embassy to begin operations in the country.

That is looking very nice there, nedalezz! Looking forward to more...

Really nice update! I like Berber's residency. And a very nice update with many details. Good job!

====== Official transcript =======
The LI delegation in Fursan, Qumma, are happy to announce, that the Foreign Policy Committee and the Comittee of Employment Issues made the decision to lift all travel and work restrictions on Qumman citizens.
==== End of official transcript =====

The cultural Center is beautiful, and Berber Dawa's residence is gorgeous. You know how much I like the night shots, too! :thumbsup:
Also, I think you've chosen a good location for the new university.

Until next time...
Joan

A very modest house, not big at all  :D Well I guess he has given alot to the community.

You've blended new and old very well one the outskirts of the old district.

As always looking forward to more  :thumbsup:

Nice work! These look about as true to life as you can get!  :satisfied:

[/b]

Schulmanator: Thanks! I like keeping my cities atleast somewhat realistic looking, and photoshop also helps in the photo department!

Yoman: Hehe, well he is the one who initiated all the progress! Indeed, he might have put some of it in his pocket, but look at the development taking place! Dawa Avenue is certainly hot property, in terms of Qumma, and most commercial activity is looking to open up there. The meeting between the two delegations was a complete success, and the QEC will be keeping in touch with the PSSO concerning further developments in regards to the Fursan Seaport.

Jmouse: You know, I always throw in a night shot just for you! I know how much you love them, so I make sure I have atleast a couple in each update. The university is bound to be the center of education in Qumma, so it makes sense putting it close to the political heart of the city.

BoKriF: Thanks! The QEC thanks the LI for their lift on their restrictions, and have done the same for LI citizens. The university blueprints are being drawn up, and it certainly will be one of the new marvels of Qumma!

bat: Thanks for the compliments!

paroch: That was a fantastic tournament, and Fursan FC have done Qumma proud. They claim to have had the best time in West End, and the travelling fans had nothing but good things to say about the hospitality. This signifies the beginning of an ever-lasting and beneficial relationship for both countries! Thanks for being one of the MDs biggest fans!

BadSim: Wow, its a total honour to have the man behind, imo, one of the Top 5 MD/CJ ever written on any site. Truely an honour, and its very flattering that someone who is as talented as you would like my work. Your MD is magnificent, and I would be more than happy to live up to only a fraction of it. Thank you for dropping by!

I love the picture od Dawa Avenue at Night.  That is an amazing picture.

Also I love the West End Cultural Exhibition.

I sense some delegates from Badger Bay are going to have to come visit soon.

Nedalezz,

They are amazing pics, like most of what you give us here.

I love the West End experience at the Cultural Centre - thank you!

I always like the overview pics because they give a great sense of how everything fits together.  And the site for the universtiy is well chosen.

The West End delegation will deliver the details of the manufacturing companies that have been chosen very soon.

All the best,
Paul

The 6th Year continues to be one of much progress and activity around Qumma. Not only did the first 3 Qumman Embassies open up in West End, Liberty Islands, and the PSSO, but all 3 countries have also begun construction of their own embassies in Fursan. In addition, the Qumma Cultural Center played host to the month long event called the West End Experience, while delegations from Liberty Islands and PSSO both successfully concluded business deals with the QEC. Who could forget Fursan FC and their tremendous footballing achievement in West End, lifting the trophy after a sizzling performance at a very entertaining tournament!

It does not stop there, however. Recently, the very first foreign companies to open their doors for business in Qumma began operations, and both of the companies come from West End. This represents a bold new step for the Qumman economy; what was once a country with zero potential has become a country with potential only capped by the sky.  With vast reserves of crude oil, as well as confirmed reports of zinc and diamond deposits in the south, resources are not at a premium here, and the country is beginning to see the benefits.

The construction boom might be rather small compared to world standards, but the growth rate remains at staggering levels. Fursan, the only confirmed permanent settlement just 6 years ago with a population of 530, now has over 25,000 at last count. Meanwhile, Khaymeh, which was nothing more than a rest stop for traveling nomads, has developed into a town of over 17,000 thanks to its proximity to the new oil refineries.  Parochian Steel has opened up a manufacturing firm to the north of Fursan, while Ulrtan Fuel has opened up an office in Khaymeh. Lets take a closer look at both of them.


With the current growth rate and construction boom, Qumma has been importing steel products in big loads. Capitalizing on this growing market with a large demand for the products, Parochian Steel has become the first foreign company, and the second overall company, to open a factory in Qumma.

Located just north of Fursan, about halfway between the town and the Fursan Oil Port, the Parochian Steel Factory employs 206 people, of which 28 are from West End, and 155 are Qumman. The rest are other foreigners on work permits from the QEC. While this operation is small compared to their main one in Wardour, West End, it remains only their second venture after their head office and factory, and the fact that they chose Qumma shows their belief in the market here. The warehouse located behind them is also their property.

The Financial Office of Qumma, or the FOQ, is a department of the QEC, and part of its job is to analyze, recommend, and estimate how well the economy and specific are and can be doing. After analyzing the market, FOQ estimates that approximately 90% of all the products being developed by the factory will be used domestically, with only 10% being exported. The factory can expect to sell, on average, $100,000 a day to the local market. These estimates are accurate only to the end of the 6th Year, as it is impossible to tell after thanks to the unprecedented growth rate.


This is a company which specializes in making high performance fuels for the motor racing industry, and thanks to the quality and vast amount of crude oil available in Qumma, they have decided to open up a branch office in Khaymeh.

Initially, Ulrtan Fuel was interested in constructing a small refinery in Qumma, and then proceed to export their finished product to their clients.  However, the QEC law states that only government owned refinery may operate within the land, therefore making it impossible for them to do.

Not wanting to discourage foreign investment, Berber Dawa personally met with the company and recommended they open up a branch office in Khaymeh, promising them prime location if they chose to do so.  He also promised to employ a team that would work inside the Khaymeh Oil Refinery producing their product the way they want it, custom made.  Both sides were happy to agree, and the final results have been beneficial to all.

Ulrtan Fuel is actually a small operation, employing 39 people in West End, and 35 people in their Khaymeh office.  Berber Dawa made good on his promise, giving them the land directly opposite the Al-Iman Mosque, in the center of the newly developed Berber Avenue.

As their product will not be used domestically since there is no motor racing industry in Qumma, all their products will be exported. The FOQ have concluded that the company will export approximately $24 million worth of refined oil by the end of the 7th Year.


Investment is beginning to pour into Qumma, and with the 6th Year starting to draw to a close, the QEC has made a couple of announcements:

1) The QEC, in co-ordination with the FOQ, have voted on a 10% Import Tax for all foreign manufactured products. The exception to this rule is currently West End products, with a deal in the works to also exempt Liberty Islands manufactured products and PSSO manufactured products from the tax. With the industrial sector finally starting to take off with the opening of Qumma's very first factory, ANISA TISSUE PRODUCTS, the QEC has decided that this tax will help the local manufacturers sell and distribute their products in Qumma.

2) The blueprints of the new Fursan Seaport have been drawn up, and construction on the site will begin in early 7th Year. As agreed, the PSSO will own 49% of the seaport, and has generously decided to donate 19% back to the Qumman people as an act of goodwill.

3) West End have removed tax restrictions on Qumman manufacturers importing into the country. The new tax code is:

- Import tax will be  reduced to zero for all raw materials including oil, iron, zinc, coal, diamonds and wood.
- Import tax is reduced to 2% for part manufactured goods such as steel and foodstuffs.
- Import tax is reduced to 5% for manufactured good such as consumer electronics, machinery and jewellery.

4) Travel, work, and visa restrictions have been lifted by the Liberty Islands on Qummans, and in addition, work on the new university will also begin in early 7th Year. The blueprints and the site are ready for construction, and the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma (ULIQ) will become the very first to open in the country.

Another fine update. Qumma is clearly still growing. And your doing a great job of portraying it.

I have a couple of business propositions I'll send to you in a PM. No need to clutter this fine MD ;D

I really love what you are doing here because it is so unique. You have a real talent for making your screen shots look as though they were taken from a real airplane. Everything is laid out so well too, like a desert community might really look. I am enjoying this diary a lot. Thanks!!  &apls

Very nice photos, a good story line and my favorite of all -- the night shot! :thumbsup:
Actually, the details in your story continue to amaze me as I watch this fascinating region grow.

Until next time...
Joan

I've been lurking here on a pretty regular basis for a while now, and thought it was about time I said hello.  I've really enjoyed watching the development over time.  I love the story line and the especially the more recent international twist you've added.  Can't wait to see what "deal" the QEC makes next!   :thumbsup:

JB

A wonderful update there! And great pictures of that town! :thumbsup:

Hi Nedalezz,

Hey, I'm impressed with the story you produced on the West End companies from what little information I provided.  Great choice of Lots for both businesses - thank you.

I (and the government of West End) am honoured to be a part of the Qumma MD.

It's a great update in its own right.  Your desert setting is pretty unique and the pics you provide coupled with storyline make this one a really great journey.  I always look forward to my visits here to see what's happening next (am looking forward to the University and the port).

I'm also interested to see what gets developed on the two empty lots opposite the Ulrtan Fuels office and the Al-Iman Mosque.  That looks like a prime site in the growing town of Khaymeh.

Great MD, Great update.

I love the details of this MD. Maybe the most detailed MD that I have ever seen.

I will send you PMs about Qumma-Liberty Islands businesses, but first I must face with real life issues. No time  :'(

Hello, nedalezz!

Magnificent work as always, my friend! And you're creeping up into Classics territory mighty quickly! I'll be looking forward to moving your great MD to wear it belongs!

Take care!

Every time I come in here, I am just awed by your pictures.  They are truely just amazing.  The detail you put into them is so apparant. 

How many times do you build then bulldoze, becaus ethe placement of everything is just perfect.  The pictures with Anisan Tissue and Parocian Steel is just perfect.  It is the perfect picture!

tkirch: The QEC will gladly accept any delegates from beautiful Badger Bay, and would love to establish official diplomatic ties! Thank you for the kind words, and I love your MD!
paroch: With Parochian Steel and Ulrtan Fuels having opened their doors for business in Qumma, relationship between Qumma and West End could not be any smoother. Qummans love their West End counterparts, and already some are starting to work their way up north for touristic reasons. Thanks for always commenting!
Yoman: The construction on the Fursan Seaport has begun! The PSSO officials handling the construction have arrived and as expected, are professional and are getting the job done as efficiently as possible. Thanks for the comments!
amapper: Wow, those are some flattering comments, thank you! Your MD is no less impressive; your transportation network is simply breathtaking. Thanks for stopping by.
Jmouse: There will always be night shots, and with everyone I think about how you might like it! Thank you for being one of the MDs most frequent commenters, it is highly appreciated!
JBSimio: Its honour to have you as a lurker on the MD, and much gracias for commenting as well! The storyline is a big part of the MD, and I enjoy writing as much as I enjoy playing the game.
bat: Thanks, my friend! I enjoyed your latest update of your MD, some good work!
BoKrif: Your message has been well-received, and hopefully by the next update you will see the beginnings of LI investment in Qumma. Also read your wiki about the LI, and I must say, I am most highly impressed! Thanks for the wonderful support and comments.
thundercrack83: Almost there! Just need a couple more replies, lol. That is in no small part thanks to your support, my friend. I can always rely on reading a comment of yours after an update always. Thank you.








POPULATION: 54,677
LARGEST CITIES: Fursan (25,452), Khaymeh (18,333)
ETHNIC GROUPS: Qumma 92%, Western Saharan 4%, West End 2%, Other 2%
RELIGIONS: Shi'a Muslim 90%, Sunni Muslim 5%, Christian 3%, Other 2%
LANGUAGES: Arabic, English, French, Local Dialects (Over 100)
GDP-PER CAPITA: $4,000
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS: Fish, Oysters, Crab, Lobsters, Clams, Cattle (mostly Goat)
INDUSTRIES: Oil 98%, Other 2%
OIL PRODUCTION: 42,000 Barrels Per Day
OIL EXPORT: 34,000 Barrels Per Day
IMPORTS: Cement, Steel, Food Products, Wood Products, Ceramic Products, Machinery, Raw Construction Material
EXPORTS: Oil 98%, Fish 1%, Steel Products 1%
MAIN EXPORT PARTNERS: Senegal (Oil), Gambia (Oil), Guinea-Bissau (Oil), West End (Refined Oil)
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES: 2 Elementary Schools, 1 High School, 1 University (Under Construction), NOTE: All in Fursan.
HEALTHCARE: 1 Clinic in Fursan.
TELEPHONE CODE AND USAGE: +999; Approx. 7,000 Land Lines in usage; No Cellular usage
RADIO STATIONS: N/A
TV STATIONS: N/A
INTERNET CODE AND USAGE: -.qm; No Internet Providers, Approx. 100 Households have satellite internet provided from Morocco
AIRPORTS: 1, in Fursan. Capable of receiving large jet planes.
SEAPORTS: 1 Oil Port, and 1 Bulk Port currently under construction, both in Fursan.

One more reply after this until you are a classic. A fine journey it has been. And it looks like it will continue!

Those bulk piles are almost done (just have to render the last 2, that will take about 20 minutes) Then I'll zip it up with the cranes and send it over.

Congratulations on making it to Classics! :thumbsup:

Nedalezz fantastic last few updates and im sorry i wasnt able to provide further details as RL kicked my butt and i wasnt able to prepare a detail information for you... Also congrats on moving up in the world to the Classic Section - pat

Thanks for the kind words. :)
Nice night pictures.

Hello nedalezz,

My first visit after some time - too much work in RL, but now it's a pleasure to visit my favourite places  ;)

Great story about Naba and a beautiful place! Something new in your MD, this village definitely enriches your region!

Coming back to Fursan, I see the great development here. Your story about various aspects of the region life - social, cultural, political and business - is really fascinating. I'm sure you would be very good Prime Minister in RL too and it would be very good if Ghana (or other) government would give you some terrain at the seaside and ask you for managing it  ;)
Now begins the strong development in Shosaloza too, I think I will have some business propositions for Qumma in the near future, and I'm also very interesting in cultural and diplomatic contacts  :)

Beautiful pictures - both day and night!

And congratulations on entering to Classics, the company in this section is better and better! :thumbsup:

Congratulations, nedalezz! :thumbsup: Qumma has been a classic from the very beginning thanks to your unique approach to city planning.
And that's a classy new update, BTW. Love the night shots!

Until next time...
Joan

Your statistics show a steadily growing area with a lot of potential. I hope Qumma has a great year next year!

Hi Nedalezz,

A time for congratulations:

Congrats on reaching the classics section - as Joan said, your MD has had "classic" written all over it for a long time now. &apls

Congrats on the 6th year for the QEC.  Development has been rapid, yet controlled.   &apls

Congrats on a fantastic update that lists exactly what has been achieved in Qumma.  And nice to see the West Enders on the radar! &apls

I love the night shot of Fursan in particular.  The pink and yellow neon lights of the shops in the bottom centre of the picture are a nice touch and soooooo very realistic.

I'm sure I'm not the only one looking forward to more and more updates here.

Paul

Congrats for the classics' section and on the 6th year!

Also a wonderful 6th year report! Great work! :thumbsup:

Its an unbelievable honour to have Qumma become a Classic, something I didnt even think about when I started this MD! As celebration, I have attempted my very first mosaic, I hope you guys enjoy it!

Alot is going on in Qumma right now; the Fursan Seaport is under construction, the Liberty Islands University in Qumma as well, the industrial sector is slowly but surely starting to develop, and Dawa Avenue in Fursan and Berber Dawa Avenue in Khaymeh are both starting to develop commercial activity. Ofcourse, politically and diplomatically, huge strides have been made and continue to be made. Its an exciting time for Qumma; who knows what will be going on when Fursan hits 100,000 people!

Looks like an incredible attempt, that I'm soaking up  ;D

Stunning mosaic, nedalezz! :thumbsup: See there, it wasn't so difficult after all was it? All you have to do is take about 50 photos then spend all afternoon finding the best three or four and splicing them together! :D

Until next time...
Joan

Well, as an "attempt," I can only describe at as: SUCCESSFUL!

I looks amazing, my friend! Great job!

That mosaic is looking wonderful, nedalezz!
Great work on that city! :thumbsup:

wow -- great mosaic, a very detailed area...

thats a sweeeeeeeeet Mosaic there Nedalezz!!!

Wow! I love Fursan. I've been a lurker in this MD for quite a while and i finally decided to comment! Great MD you got here!

The 7th Year marks the official opening of the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma (ULIQ), making it the very first center of higher learning in the history of the country. With close ties between the QEC and LI having developed, investment has been pouring in from the small North Atlantic country, the largest of which has been its contribution to Qumman education.

Costing nearly $60 million upon completion, the investment was funded 100% by the LI, with 20% of revenue going to the QEC per year. The administration of ULIQ will be made up of both Qummans and LI citizens, with the latter being able to bring over as many employees as it so chooses. The headmaster is always of LI nationality, and the curriculum will follow the LI educational system.

The university is made up of two main buildings, and surrounding the buildings are the student housing, built in typical LI architecture, with each townhouse accommodating between 40-60 students. Initial registration for the university was recorded at 530, the same number of Fursan's population just 7 years ago. ULIQ offers diplomas, masters, and PhDs in nearly every general field; the only thing lacking is further education in the field of medicine and health. However, it features the complete educational range for business, arts and sciences, engineering, and law. It also has its own football field, which will become the home of Fursan FC.

ULIQ will be the first of its kind in the entire region, and will surely attract students from all over the western coast of Africa. As such, accommodation in the student housing has been generous, with the university able to hold up to 4,000 students, and able to cater to up to 7,500. It is expected to become the focal point of all education in the country, and hopes to become the educational center of the region as well.

Fantastic update of that University, nedalezz! Great pictures, also the ones at night!! :thumbsup:

Nedalezz this update was stunning!!! I cant wait for more - pat

Hi Nedalezz,

Nice couple of updates.  Great first mosaic that really sums up Fursan residential living.

And I like the way that the LI university is so different from the rest of Fursan but your explanation and execution makes it fit in real nice.  That is a fantastic main university building - I am very impressed.  Many of the student accomodation buildings are also seen in West End, so any students from here will feel verymuch at home.

And I'm glad to see the mighty Fursan FC have their own permanent home at last ;)  Hope they have a good trophy cabinet installed!

Nedalezz, you did a great job! The ULIQ campus looks stunning, nicely laid out, and really good idea to incorporate that kind of housing.
I say Stunning.

=======
The government of Liberty Islands would like to express its satisfaction because of the succesful construction of the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma.
The Governor-president of Liberty Islands, Ferenc Hatvany, would like to attend at the official opening ceremony of the ULIQ.
The ULIQ will have an office in Szabadrév too.
=======

Very cutting-edge university, nedalezz, but knowing your unique style, the design surprised me only for a moment.
Actually, I decided to revisit page 12, post 229 when you first introduced the university site.
That was an exciting time in Qumma's development when diplomatic relations were being established with West End and Liberty Islands. Berber Dawa's new residence was finished, and the West End Cultural Center shined like stars in the night.
Now you have followed up with another stunning update, complete with more stars in the night (which you know I love!)!
Good job.

Until next time...
Joan

A beautiful MD.....i'm now addicted, thanks for that :P, and am eagerly awaiting your next update :)

Wow! Great University! The city is growing very nicely at a not overrated pace! Great work!  &apls

wow --really nice!! those buildings are really fit to be some kind of university!! the surrounding area looks great as well...

The campus looks great :thumbsup: And the city around it is amazing as well

splendid city  &apls and effect of the sun very well  :thumbsup:

Wow wow wow , chapeau bas !!

The past updates are awesome, the mosaic horribly awesome ! and now the ULIQ ixs simple but yet effective ! nice choice of buildings ! fits perfectly in Qumma !

Right, First things First: HUGE APOLOGIES for the lack of updates! I have just arrived in Beirut after 5 days in Dubai for business, and I have a few days of relaxation here before heading over to China, then back to Dubai for yet more business. I will definitely get an update in, possibly two, before I travel again. As for now, here are some replies:

Yoman: Thanks! Traders and businessmen have been very excited about the new Fursan Seaport and the potential it could possibly fufill. And once the port has been completed, the QEC will want to talk about a further venture with the PSSO..

Jmouse: Your words are soooo flattering! The mosaic was aloooot of work, but I figure I might have gotten the jist of it, so maybe it will be easier next time around. And Im really happy you liked the university; I know you enjoy a certain fanciness and customization to your civic lots, and I hope this one impressed you.

thundercrack83: Thank you. Im glad the response for the mosaic was so well received!

bat: Thank you! And thank you for always being there with your encouraging words after every update!

suplado!: Oh wow! You are definitely one of the kings of desert MDs/CJs; Ive been following Jargeah on Simtropolis for a while now and was so glad it came to SC4Devotion. The fact that this MD gets your thumbs up definitely means alot to me. Hope you keep stopping by.

Pat: Merci Beaucoup! Its good to see you back following the MD!

sEAhAwk fAn121: It was great talking to you in the chatroom! Thanks for the great compliments; Im glad you like the pace of the MD. I find that if I go to fast, I lost touch with the region and the cities, and they become generic to me, with no culture almost.

paroch: From what Ive heard, the ULIQ has already begun its student exchange program with several universities in West End, and indeed there can be up to 70 students from West End found on the ULIQ campus, with that number expected to double next year. Im glad you liked the update!

BoKriF: Considering the main donor for the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma was, incidentally, the Liberty Islands, it means alot to have been given your full approval. I hope I did a good job trying to recreate LI housing on the campus.

pipisphere: Lol, you are now addicted, and I will try my best to keep your fix going! Thank you for the compliments!

urban: Thanks! Im really glad the university was deemed a success; I have to admit, it took a while to get it to look like something I would be happy with.

warconstruct: Ah yes, the Photoshop effect! I cant tell you how much I love it, lol. Thanks for the kind words.

nova vesfalo: Another master of the game comments on my MD! Thank you for the very kind words, and I love your MD. I hope you pass by more often!

iamgoingtoeatyou: Thanks! Its a huge honour for me to have made it to Classics; it means so much.

Ennedi: If Doctorates were ever given out for SimCity, you would be Dr. Ennedi, the SimCity Master. Your replies are always met with huge anticipation by me, and I love the constructive criticism/compliments you give. It would be an absolute honour for the QEC to develop diplomatic ties with Shosaloza, and I am very much looking forward to the new developments taking place there. Thank you for your incredible words of support.

Shulmanator: Its all about the monkeys! Your MD is the funniest; I love your updates! Thank you for the compliments.

Hi Nedalezz,

You sound busy.  Good luck with the travelling and I'm sure in true SC4D fashion the next update will be ready when it's ready ;)

Paul

One word only AMAZING! I wonder how well this represent the city you live or if it's just your imagination running wild. Either way congratulations.

Cheers

With the beginning of official diplomatic relations with West End, the PSSO, and the Liberty Islands must come designated embassies for the respective countries in Qumma. Just opposite of the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma, 3 distinctive buildings have been constructed with the aim of housing the Embassies of three countries above.

All three countries are now invited to pick which building they would prefer; please note, this is on a first come, first serve basis. We hope all will be happy with the buildings they have been assigned to, and the QEC hopes this will continue to further grow the relationship between itself and the three countries.



Today, we are going to highlight Qumma's top retail company: Champion Stores. With 2 branches in the two major towns of Fursan and Khaymeh, it is the top earning retail business in the country. It recent expansion into Khaymeh has been a big success, and it has now successfully penetrated both markets to become the top earner in both.

Champion Stores opened its doors for business 2 Years ago in the 5th Year, just off of Dawa Avenue in Fursan. The owner, Mr. Fouad Kher, a Qumman trader working in Morocco, saw an opportunity in the growing town and jumped on it, initially starting out with groceries, food stuff, household products, and imported vegetables and meats. He sold approximately $3,000 a day during his first year of operation, with running costs of approximately $300 a day, leaving about $700-$800 after cost of goods in his pocket at the end of everyday.

The 6th Year meant bigger business for Kher, but it also meant more competition. The Dollar General opened up right next to Champion Stores in Fursan, and with it came heavy battles in terms of prices due to similar suppliers. Although sales jumped to about $5,000 a day, expenses also rose as profits took a slight dip, keeping final profits at about the same margin. But through the 6th Year, Kher's eyes were on Khaymeh and its development.

With the development of the Berber Dawa Avenue in Khaymeh, in addition to its rapid population growth, Kher was encouraged and acquired a prime piece of land of around 2500 sq. meters on the newly constructed avenue, costing him $250,000 (final cost including construction of the showroom and all totaled almost $700,000). However, upon opening for business in Khaymeh with his 2nd branch in the 7th Year, daily sales in Fursan had jumped to almost $6,000, a number that was soon to be equaled at the 2nd branch.

Business in Khaymeh proved to be just as profitable as Fursan, with the 2nd branch also churning approximately $6,000 a day. On average, Kher will see about $350,000 a month from sales, with a profit margin of around 30%, meaning around $105,000 in total at the end of the month. Take away expenses, which amount to about $25,000 a month, and Kher is left with a cool $80,000 in profit, which equals to $960,000 a year.

Needless to say, Mr. Fouad Kher is making quite a little bit of money, and as a result of some shrewd business decisions, he now owns and operates the largest and biggest earning retail business in Qumma.


As a final note, I will leave with some sites from around Khaymeh. The rapidly growing town now has almost 25,000 residents, and the growth rate shows no signs of slowing. The Berber Dawa Avenue has seen a lot of commercial activity, with the focal point being the Al-Iman Mosque and the Pearl Hotel, both right next to each other. Development both to the west and east have seen Khaymeh expand, with the population density of the town much higher than that of Fursan.

Oh that middle building just looks awesome, I'll take that un.

Another excellent update here, we can really see how locally things develope in Qumma, and yet have a national impact. Thats a pretty penny Mr. Kher is making also.

Sorry about the slow progress on those seaport lots, Xiziz has been busy with god knows what, and Im working on one big improvement (lets just say I hate the nice clean concrete underneath coal piles). But I am trying to get them to you as quick as possible.

A nice new update - those embassies look like the perfect place to set up relations.

Once again, you've played your hand with a style and decorum so typical but elegant.
The embassies are awesome, and my personal favorite is the one on the right. Maybe one of these days, I'll enjoy the privilege of having one in Qumma as well.
The night shots are stunning, especially the last one (right before HIGHLIGHT: CHAMPION STORES).
I'll admit that seeing a Dollar General in Fursan is a bit jarring, but I understand McDonalds has "invaded" Ghana, so what's new! ::) I wonder, though, if Champions looks anything like your RL stores.
I hope you had a safe and productive business trip.

Until next time...
Joan

Wonderful update there! Great pictures of the embassies! Also nice work on the Champion Stores!
And the two overviews are looking fantastic.

Fantastic update my friend.  My favourite pic is the second last.  So very realistic.  The layout is perfect.  I really could see something like that in Google Earth from some where in the dessert.  Great job, I always love coming to visit this MD.

Robin  :thumbsup:

Nice update, worth the wait.
I like the embassies, and those precise details about growing business in Qumma. Nice.

It's always great to come here and see another fantastic update, nedalezz! The embassies look great, and I love the last two pictures the most! Keep up the amazing work, and I'll be looking forward to seeing what's next!

Great update dude. I only recently noticed how realistic your little village in the middle of the desert is. Like the streets don't end together with the houses, they go a bit further as of there were lots at the end of it still to be built. Very nice details.

Hi Nedalezz,

Another great update from you.  It's always interesting to see how Qumma is growing and your stories always add some interest.  I'm sure if the profit margins are that attractive more retail chains will be watching with interest.  Tesco from the UK seem to be expaning into "emerging markets" at the moment!

Your shots of Khaymeh are great.

As for the embassy, they all look good - you've done a nice job there.  The West End ambassador has told me that he would prefer the building on the left (if it's still available).  Gin and Tonic on the roof terrace after a hard day being diplomatic would be awfully pleasant ;)

Lovely update with the Embassies and the night shot at the end is beautiful!

Yoman: The middle one becomes the PSSO Embassy in Qumma :) Indeed, Mr. Kher is making some nice cash...he's been thinking of investing in overseas real estate, maybe you got something for him ;)

Schulmanator: Thanks! The embassies will become a large part of Fursan's everyday political and diplomatic scene for sure thanks to the relations between the three countries and itself.

Jmouse: Hehehe, actually, they do look a bit like my RL stores :) I always think of you when I put my nightshots in, and I always try to make a few of them as to impress you! Thank you for the compliments (BTW, McDonalds in Ghana?! Really? I want! I want! I wasnt aware)

bat: Thank you for the encouraging words my friend! I love taking overview shots, Im glad you enjoyed them.

rooker1: Thank you! Its designed after a desert-arabian city, while Fursan is designed after a coastal Mediterrenean city. I travel to the UAE alot, and my inspiration for Khaymeh's layout has been Abu Dhabi.

BoKriF: Congratulations, the Liberty Islands Embassy in Qumma is now officially opened! The white building will suit the LI ambassador just fine, I do believe :)

thundercrack83: Thank you for the very flattering words! Im glad you liked the embassies; I'll have to admit, it took quite a bit of time trying to choose the right buildings!

gmavignier: Thanks! While Khaymeh draws up inspiritation from an actual place (Abu Dhabi), Fursan is something completely made up, and I'm learning as I go further. As for the village, I'm originally from Lebanon, and my family comes from a village called Kafra in the southern mountains. I took the idea from Kafra, and although its about the furthest thing from being a flat, desert environment (its in a mountain, lots of greenery environment!), the idea was taken from there.

paroch: What the West End ambassador wants, he shall have! West End become the third occupant with the official opening of the West End Embassy in Qumma! And you are right, sitting on that rooftop after a long day of hard work, overlooking the entire city of Fursan, the university, and the Presidential Lane, couldn't get much better than that! Indeed, quite a few businessmen have started applying to set up some sort of retail outlets both in Khaymeh and Fursan. Thanks for the kind words! Was I right about the colours being related to West Ham United? That would give me two things I could name!

pipishere: Merci Beaucoup! I love night shots as well, always like taking them!

Well, almost done with the business trip; currently,  I am in Dubai, and I will be back in Ghana at the end of the week, so updates will resume as normal when I get back. Till then, there have been some advancements in Fursan, and here is an aerial picture to wet the appetites a bit!

Stunning teaser, nedalezz--just simply stunning! I hope all is going well on your business trip. Safe travels, and I'll be looking forward to seeing your next update!

Hey Nedalezz,

Your overview pics are always stunning, and no exception here.  Love it.

I hope you're enjoying Dubai, I was there in Decemebr 2006 staying near the Mall of the Emirates with the indoor ski slope.  And good luck to Ghana hosting the African Nations.  I'd be interested to hear about the atmosphere in Ghana during the tournament.

And you were absolutely correct about the West End flag being the English flag with West Ham United's colours instead (Claret and Blue).  I'll PM you with naming right opportunities!!

Have a safe journey home.

Paul

Your striking photos and attention to detail are legendary, Nedalezz.
Congratulations on seven successful years for Fursan :thumbsup:, and here's looking forward to year number eight!

Until next time...
Joan

Wow has that city grown quite alot, really awesome there.

Being the idiot I am I've started on another gantry crane (though ten times better than the first), But all thats left is texturing, after that being another idiot who can't just finish what hes started I want to make a few more bulk cranes. If you just want to build the seaport now just tell me and I'll finish what Ive got quick as can be. But I think that these new BATs would improve it alot.

In the meantime maybe Mr. Kher would like to invest in one of several state owned real estate companies (not really companies, give people places to live, collect taxes). He would make some  money from the rents, after it went through the Foreign Relations Department  ;D

Again, I'm terribly sorry about the delays, I just want everything to be as nice as it can be  %BUd%

I just love your cities, like an oasis in the desert! ;D

Great overview of that part of the region, nedalezz!

Looking forward to more...

Your region is unique, even for desert regions which are rare in themselves, but yours stands out. Some of it is the type of buildings you use, especially for residential. Even more is your sense of space and placement, like how you sprinkle trees and bushes around in just the right quantities. Your attention to detail is inspiring. I am sure you will bring back more ideas from your trip...we'll be waiting.  :)

I just found out about your MD. Beautiful!
Don't have the time now to comment extensively, but the pictures I saw are really great.
Very coherent styles of your lots and buildings.

Reply 301!

I look forward to the developments. :thumbsup:

OOOoooh, very nice MD, just looked over it! :) cant wait for more!  &apls

consider my appetite now moistened  :D lol!

With the increase in official diplomatic visits, as well as business trips by potential foreign investors, the QEC have constructed the first 5-Star hotel within Qumma: The Qumma Royal Palace Hotel.

Fully equipped with 250 rooms, including Junior, Executive, and Presidential Suites, the hotel has become the latest Qumman landmark, costing almost $65 million upon completion, making it the single largest commercial investment ever in Qumma.

Only the finest has been equipped in the hotel; the rooms are grand, the lobby is exquisite, and there are 4 fantastic restaurants to choose from. In addition, there is an underground swimming pool, or if one prefers to bask in the sun, a private beach just across the street from the hotel. Also available is a state-of-the-art spa, as well as 3 large conference room capable of holding up to 100 people at a time.

Fully owned by the QEC, it has been contracted to local upstart hotelier company for management called Burani Hoteliers, who are also in charge of managing 2 smaller inns in Fursan. It is situated just south of Presidential Lane, bordering Berber Dawa's private residence.


Another first in Fursan is the first ever planned residential development: The Pines Residence. Developed by the Neumann Group of the Liberty Islands, with a residential theme based on English/Northeastern US architecture, the Pines Residence houses up to 3,000 people.

Upon completion, the project had cost the Neumann Group $8 million, with 80 townhouses up for sale for $200,000 each. There are also 4 community pools, 3 tennis courts, and 3 basketball courts. With 24 hour security, garbage service, and wireless internet and satellite services, the Pines Residence has sold out already, being especially popular with expatriates who have made a home in Fursan.
Situated just north of the current town of Fursan, the development has been deemed a huge success by the Neumann Group, and talks are already on the way with the QEC in order to gain land for a 2nd development.



Finally, Dawa Avenue has been seeing a lot of activity lately, with buildings coming up, and buildings under construction. We will leave you with a couple of pictures highlighting the commercial center of Fursan.

It's always nice to see a new update from you and this one is no exception.  The last picture is awesome and could win a few rounds in the SC4 Picture Competition.  The Pines Residential looks great as well, but I think there is too much parking, for my tastes at least.  I hope to see another update soon.
&apls
Robin  :thumbsup:

The last shot I really like! :thumbsup: &apls

Ok there are two images that stand out...the beach and the final shot. Truly fabulous!

Amazing!  ;D Very inspiring too!

Great new update there! And wonderful night picture of that hotel! Also nice residence! :thumbsup:

Another great update. Fursan is getting more and more developed and colorful.

Amaing ! Dawa Avenue is just perfect ! Love the contrast !!!!

It's always a pleasure to stop in here ad see an update! Always a pleasure! Everything looks just perfect, every single time! Keep up the wonderful work, nedalezz! You can count on me being around for more!

Great update there Nedalezz.  The Pines is a different look for Qumma.  I'd be interested to see where it fits into the region shot. 

And Dawa Avenue is looking fantastic.

I wouldn't mind spending a few days in that gorgeous hotel!
Like many other readers, I really like the last overview shot, but you've captured my heart with the night shot as usual! ;)

Until next time...
Joan

Very nice update and great night shots.

Robin  :thumbsup:

Love the Nite shots there Nedalezz and a wonderful update as a whole!!!

Oh no! I missed an update. Sorry about that.

But what I see here makes up for it. Those nightshots are incredible, some of the best I've ever seen. Especially that last one, with the sprawling development and the brightly lit towers just shooting up into the night, must be an incredible view from the sea.

Speaking of which, all that stuff is near complete, just textures on the large crane and you'll be all set to go. And special textures for the Qumman bulk cranes as I feel I need to make up for the delays. What colors would you prefer? (note that the normal one is just a ton of rust :P).

Qumma looks just as stunning at night, my friend! The medical school and the Newmann Group Building, everything looks fantastic! I'll be looking forward to your next update!

Dustin

Now see there, nedalezz, I'm not the only one who likes night shots -- I'm just the one who likes them best! :D
They're all gorgeous, but you outdid yourself on the first one, the Judicial Building and the mosaic. Fursan and the buildings therein certainly lend themselves to night shots.
The mosaic especially looks like a very realistic aerial view with the bright CBD and the dimmer lights spreading out from it.
I don't suppose somebody had the Vegas Strip in the back of their mind somewhere along the way, did they? $%Grinno$%

Until next time...
Joan

Simply fantastic! Stunning night shots. The new mid/highrises look good. I like our Neumann Group HQ too! :) The company has a wiki page too, if anyone interested have a look: Neumann Group wiki page (http://editthis.info/ipon/Neumann_Group)
Nice Nedalezz!

Yes, some fantastic night shots there! Like it! :thumbsup:

I was ill for some time and it was difficult for me to visit all my friends - sorry!

But I see a great development in Qumma  :thumbsup:
The Dawa Avenue looks beautiful. There are not too many MDs in which we can observe such logical and organic development in the same time, it is fascinating to see how modern buildings are added to the old city structure.

And your night shots are fantastic, I love them!
Qumma is really one of my most favourite places on this site!  :thumbsup:

Adam

Oh now they are just beautiful!  :)

those night shots are horribly amazing :! monstruously damn good ! Love the "Strip" and all the fursan homes around ! Those nightshot let people understand how Fursan is organized ! Love love love it !

Nedalezz,

WOW &apls WOW  &apls WOW  &apls

I think that says it all really ;)

Well done on an awesome update.

Dear Qumma Government



To Whom it concerns


Dear Qumman Airport Authority. We here a SEREVIP Inc are interest in building a medium sized airport for the city of Kaymeh We also would be interested in starting up a small commuter line to the main Airport in Fursan from out of the new Kaymeh Airport. We will glady pay up to 25,000,000 to build this airport (use the Moolah cheat :P) any left over money we will donate to Qumma

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg219.imageshack.us%2Fimg219%2F2153%2Ffqafu3.png&hash=1624e077417b8c3d04749d6d47428ccf506d8d6d)
The proposed Airline will be called FQA

we hope to do good buisness with your nation.

Donny Bing
CEO SEREVIP Inc



To whom it may concern

Greeting I am Todd Smith, and I am the CEO of Tourist Line,We are a small low cost airline designed specificly for people who don't live near international airports but want international flights. We heard that there might be a new Airport in Kaymeh,Qumma. We have had interest in flying to it (We would fly in to Fursan,but the cost is just a little above us. we are hoping this will cost a little less ;)) We would fly every Monday and Friday and every other Wednesday we operate L-1011's and we would fly out of Datsun, Eastern Virginia.

We Hope to do buisness with you
Todd Smith

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg87.imageshack.us%2Fimg87%2F7788%2Ftlgs3.jpg&hash=d1b5e0ab501da8b5b77566c30ff6faaabbb936be)
Tourist Line's L-1011


To Whom it may concern


Hello I am a represinitive of "Sammy" We are a low cost Airline that is a whole subsidary of FlyREV (The National Airline of Eastern Virginia) We were wondering if we could be able to fly a dailey flight from our base in Entwistle, East Virginia to Fursan International? we operate 737-500 and we are considered one of the best low-cost Airlines in the country of East Virginia

Hope to Do business soon
John McCombs Reprisenative

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg233.imageshack.us%2Fimg233%2F7519%2Fsammy737yd1.jpg&hash=0ae7dc10f155f447e732457525383f1887bbc37c)
Sammy 737

To ALL, Please do forgive my lack of personal attention and personal replies; Ive been absolutely swamped with work. As you guys know, the African Nations Cup has been taking place in Ghana, so Ive had many important customers/suppliers coming through and Ive been entertaining alot of guests. Hopefully, once that get through, everything will get back on track. Apologies and huuuuge appeal for forgiveness!


To All Interested Parties,

We thank you for your interest in operating within and into Qumma, and we believe that there can only be benefits from such a thing for the local economy. Currently, there is an international, albeit small, airport just outside of Fursan, but there have been no plans to draw up any such facilities in Khaymeh as of yet. We believe Khaymeh's current population (est. 27.450) would not justify such a big investment, or indeed would not allow any realistic profitable operation to go ahead. That being said, Khaymeh is growing at a rapid pace, and with the growth rate keeping up, would certainly justify atleast thinking about such an investment in the near future.

Fursan remains a different story; the transportational hub of Qumma has a population which has recently eclipsed 60,000 and all the city planning is being done for a city that will see 150,000 residents in the near future. The growth rate is amongst the highest in the world, and has not shown any signs of letting up. Currently, Qumma Airways operates out of Berber Dawa International Airport as the national air carrier (100% owned by the QEC), with a fleet of 1 Boeing 737-800 flying to 3 locations (Il-Ayun in Western Sahara, Nouakchott in Mauritania, and Casablanca in Morocco) twice weekly. It begin operations in the 5th Year, and has turned small profits in the past 2 years. The only other airline to fly into BDI is the West End national carrier, which operates non-stop flights between the two countries.

Considering there has been no prior diplomatic contact between the QEC and the East Virginia government, we formally extend an invitation and would be honoured to host an East Virginian delegation at the Presidential Office in order to establish official diplomatic relations and begin talk about economic partnerships. While the SEREVIP Inc. offer is one that is tempting, we believe that in Qumma's current state, it would be a premature investment, one that is bound to lose money. However, we would love to have Tourist Line and "Sammy" fly into Berber Dawa International Airport, although we believe that "Sammy" should look at a jet that could perhaps have a longer range than the Boeing 737.

We look forward to your favorable reply, and hope to host the East Virginian delegation in Qumma very soon.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F5-AirportAerial.jpg&hash=81bc32b537583426388dd2b8e1e354563e15622b)

Sorry to hear that you're swamped with work, my friend! I hope things slow down a bit so it's not so hectic for you. And your airport looks fantastic! In the meantime, take care, and I await your next update!

So, if turists, professors and businessmen with diplomats want to travel to Qumma by plane, they have to take a flight from Liberty Islands to Casablanca?
We might have to consider a direct flight to Liberty Islands, maybe once a week or once every two week if it is not profitable enough. Actually businessmen can play more of necessery. The national airways of LI will have a close look at the options, but Qumma Airways is welcomed on the largest airport in LI: the Szabadrév-Kertmezõ International.

Today were are going to take a trip to Qumma's 2nd largest city, Khaymeh. Most famous for the Khaymeh Oil Refinery, the city had a huge growth sprout in the 7th and 8th Years, more than doubling its population. With the oil money finding ways to trickle down into the local population (more so than Fursan), the city has experienced a population and economic boom.

Although the QEC still governs the town from Fursan, Berber Dawa recently proposed his plans to set up a QEC regional HQ in Khaymeh for the Qumman inlands. Instead of reporting to Fursan, the QEC in both cities will instead work together, something which upset several supposed "Big People" in Fursan profiting off of Khaymeh's riches.

Fursan remains the political and economic capital of Qumma, and while the former will remain the case, the city can no longer lay exclusive claim to the latter. The fact is, Khaymeh's development and rapid expansion, as well as its position as the main trading center for all the inland towns, not to mention the oil refinery, has made the city just as important economically as the capital. Its distinctly Arabic and Muslim population has taken advantage of the fact that Qumma has no import tax, making the town the gateway for Algerian, Malian, Moroccan, Western Saharan, and Mauritanian traders who are trying to escape importation taxes in their own countries. With the borders so wide and empty, goods can easily be smuggled in through the desert, meaning that those same traders can increase their profits when it comes time to sell the goods.

With a population of just under 58,000, Khaymeh's growth rate has shown no signs of slowing down. With easy access to oil and consumer good offices and traders, the city is proving to be a popular destination in the region.

splendid! the sights of nights are exquisite !  &apls

That's looking really good there, nedalezz! Great night shots! Also the at day are looking wonderful! :thumbsup:
Nice area!

Sammy will be flying from Entwistle to Qumma on Monday's and Wenesdays and Return Trips on Thursday and Saturday


Tourist Line will fly once a week round trips from Datsun (A city Sammy doesn't from) to Qumma



Also VIP Resturaunt Holdings Inc is interest in placing five of there V.I.P resturaunts in Qumma  two in Fursan To in Kameyah and one in that other city


Please tell us if it will be exceptible


Carlos Boyd
President of VIP Resteraunt Holdings




(Use Heblems VIP resteraunt)

You may have been swamped with work, but you haven't forgotten how to please your adoring fans! :thumbsup:

The daytime shots are great, but those night shots are just gorgeous.

Good luck with your business ventures, and here's hoping things will get back to normal soon.

Until next time...
Joan

Great to see how successful Khaymeh has become. 

The pictures you give us are always top quality - and those night time shots are exceptional. 

The tree lines roads add a nice touch to the city - is that a side street/road modd or did you plop them all?

And good to see Ulrtan Fuels is doing well, right in the middle of the city.

I always enjoy your updates, the story of this growing nation is a pleasure to follow.

&apls &apls &apls

Khaymeh looks amazing, nedalezz! The night shots are especially my favorites! It's always a good day when there's an update in Qumma. Keep up the marvelous work, my friend!

Dustin

thundercrack83: Wow, such kind words! Thank you so much for tuning in, even if the updates have been slow lately.

paroch: Ultran Fuels is actually turning quite a nice little profit, they are doing really well! Most of the trees that line the streets are Jeronij Street Mod, but if you mean the palm trees that line up the road that cuts through the residential neighborhood, those are plopped.

Jmouse: As always, the nightshots are always taken with you in mind! Thank you for your kind words regarding my RL endeavours, and I think you for your kind words regarding Qumma as well!

Nascar_Guy: That is acceptable; will give an in game reply soon! Thanks for getting involved in Qumma!

bat: Thanks! The night shots seem to be really popular, lol. Gizmos Mod is simply incredible; I just wish it lit up the avenues better!

warconstruct: Thank you! Its all thanks to Gizmo's Mod; it really added a new aspect to nightshot pictures!

BoKriF: A direct flight from the Liberty Islands will be met with great honour in Qumma. Qumma Airways has been looking to acquire a new airplane to begin handling more flights, and would also be honoursed to fly into Liberty Islands.

A real beautiful village!
How do you manage to make your neighbourhoods so uniform but not exact copies? Do you plop a lot or did you grow everything? If I may ask?

Simply nice! I look forward.
And I am interested is there other settlements in Qumma else then Fursan, Khaymeh, and that small village?

VIP resturaunts uses as much locally grown food as possible

Very nice indeed. The night pics are a real treat to see.

Yes, a new Khaymeh! I wasn't really happy with the results of the original Khaymeh (namely, it was way too close to the refinery, with the city center somehow on ending up not being very central at all). Also, the building style didn't quite do it for me.

However, I redid the city and I am very pleased with the results so far. The QEC has also decided to further develop the Khaymeh Oil Refinery, almost doubling its production capability.

As for Khaymeh, the mosque you will see is the Al-Iman Mosque, but I did use a different BAT. As of the 5th Year, Khaymeh's population is around 19,000. By the 10th Year, it will be closer to 50,000.

So without further ado, pictures! The titles before the pictures explain them.

[/size]

Wow, excellent. &apls
It's really beautiful, I love it. :thumbsup:

Well done! But, that's what I expect... you always do a nice job. Glad to see you back with more stuff.  :thumbsup:

Great progress on Khaymeh! Also nice work on the oil Refinery! :thumbsup:

Glad to see you back in the game, nedalezz. As always, your photos are top-notch, and the night shots are beautiful. I especially like the refinery at night! :thumbsup:

The mosque makes a nice centerpiece for Khaymeh, and I'm sure the city will grow and prosper as you predicted.

Heres hoping the next update comes through sooner! ;)

Until next time...
Joan

The new Khaymeh looks incredible, my friend! It's always a pleasure to see an update here in Qumma!

Dustin

Hi Nedalezz,

Man you ARE a perfectionist.  The old Khaymeh was fine.  The new Khaymeh is finer  ;D

I hope Ulrtan Fuels have been able to find a new office in the new city  ;)

The mosque does make a fine centrepiece for the city - great choice.

And of course, Welcome back, you've been missed.

Paul

 &apls WoW Nedalezz!!! Great rebuilding I do belive its turning out for the better here.....

I enjoy this diary very much, and never get tired of looking at your pictures. Your vegetation placement is done tastefully and is believable. I'm hoping you are able to continue with it enough to see a major urban area evolve. Great job!  :thumbsup:

Wow, I just stumbled upon this gem, and WOW! ;) This is fantastic! Your use of BATs is perfect. A breath of fresh air from the more common North American cities. Just, wow!

Cheers! :thumbsup:

Nice update. I really love this MD. Keep up the good work.

Excellent update Nedalezz. The redone version of Khaymeh looks better. The expanded refinery looks cool too. I am wondering what had happened to Fursan, while Khaymeh developed.. :P

To ALL, please forgive my lack of personal replies! I am currently in Dubai on business, and I had a few hours to myself (finally!), so I played a bit of SC and prepared this update. I hope to be back in Ghana in a couple of days time, and hopefully updates will resume at a more frequent pace. Also, I'll be able to personally reply to each and everyone of you (as I should be doing, anyway). Again, apologies for the lack of personal replies!



Celebrating 10 years since the inception of the nation of Qumma, the city of Fursan continued to witness its remarkable growth bring further prosperity into the hands of the people. With the Khaymeh Oil Refinery expanded to double its original size, the export of the added amounts of oil brought more riches to the nation than every imagined. As such, more money was poured into the development of Qumma, and with foreign investment recording an all-time high, the country of Qumma could not be in a better place 10 years in.

With the population of Fursan fast approaching 90,000, it has begun taking baby steps towards its ultimate goal of becoming one of the economic, financial, industrial, and entertainment hubs of the region, Africa, and ultimately the world. Development has shown no signs of slowing down, and with the opening of 2 new banks, the economy has continued its strong growth.

The Fursan Oil Port has been handling all bulk cargo needs for the country, but after some delays, the QEC has finally begun work on the Fursan Harbour Port, which will be capable of handling more than 50 times Qumma's current needs. Looking towards the future, Berber Dawa was there for the ground breaking, and stated that the development of the port was one which was taking into account Qumma's potential, not its current state.

Additionally, excavation in the southeast region of Qumma, known for its rocky and hilly features, has shown large deposits of precious stones and metals. Although that was already known year ago, experts were unclear on whether it was substantial amounts or not. Having spent years studying and researching, conclusions have shown the area to be very rich in those precious stones and metals. Diamonds and Gold are reported to be plentiful, but the QEC has not drawn up any plans to begin reaping the benefits of those natural resources.

With that small outlook on the current events happening around Qumma, we now leave you with a few pictures of Fursan, including some of the developments that took place over the past couple of years.

Some very very nice views of the great town of Fursan!! :thumbsup:
Like the night shots, too! :thumbsup:

Oh boy, you know just what gets my attention, don't you nedalezz! :thumbsup:

I always like the overviews because they give me a better sense of the city as a whole. But it's hard to beat those night shots! Absolutely love the way the water turned out in the first one - I imagine it to be a reflection of the moon and stars. And while all the rest are stunning, the Palm Residence is my favorite - maybe because of the beach in the background.

I'm so glad you spent those few spare hours on an update - it certainly was time well spent.

Until next time...
Joan

WOW!

Fursan looks amazing, my friend! I can't believe the amount of detail and your Photoshop work. Excellent job, as always, nedalezz! Excellent job!

Dustin

They are all nice pictures but the night shots are exceptonal... you have great skill in making them leap right off of the page.  :thumbsup:

This city looks very realistic in the middle of the desert. Excellent use of the mediterranean bats    &apls

Love this update. Fursan expanded as I expected. It looks excellent, and I see newer buildings and new styles too, when the city grows bigger it will have to have more special buildings too.
I don't know, did you think about introducing public transportition to Fursan? Tram, I thought about. And rail connection wit Khaymeh?
Good job Nedalezz!

Awesome views of your city and great details. The nighttime shots were outstanding. Good Job on your city.

Great update there Nedalezz.  And Joan is right (as usual  ;)), your overviews and night shots are stunning.

The storyline is always interesting as well.

One question, how many bribes did The Neumann Group have to pay to get planning permissions for the Palm Residence to be built amongst the "classic" Fursan buildings? ;) :D

Have a safe journey home,

Paul

It's very good  ;)

bat: Thank you! I guess Im gaining a reputation for my nightshots, lol. Your comments are always welcomed and appreciated!

Jmouse: I cannot lie, everytime I take a night shot, I think about if you would like it or not! Im glad you liked the Palm Residence as well; that Liberty Islands investment is starting to show!

thundercrack83: Always there to comment after every update, and always one that leaves a smile on the face! Thank you very much.

Schulmanator: Wow, thanks! I guess I can say the same applies to the way you tell the stories in your MD, just brings it totally to life and always leaves me laughing!

Berethor: Thanks! All credit goes to MBear, as always, for making a city like Fursan possible. Her Med Set is truely amazing.

BoKriF: The QEC has already initiated blueprint plans on a potential public transportation system; it seems the favorite choice seems to be a mix of subways and tram lines for major routes. However, that is potentially still a long way off; they do plan on presenting the private sector with the opportunity to start running bus lines in Fursan. And I hope you liked what the Neumann Group did with the Palm Residence; Prime Real Estate! Thanks for the comment.

Starmanw402007: Thank you! Always good to see first time commenters, and I hope you start commenting regularly! It is very much appreciated!

paroch: Thanks for the flattering comment! Actually, the QEC plan, at some stage, on having the entire coastline filled with residential high-rises and turning the coast into one long public beach. Ofcourse, they also have it in their plans to expand the coastal road into a big boulevard!

Simpson: Thanks! I love when I get comments from first timers :)

HAHA I just reliesed Your the Nedalea guy from Nationstates!


I was in a region with you breifly. :P

The pics are awesome and the way you're develloping the city is really interesting too. The night shots are stunning.

Such an awesome MD, I just love your cities! Fursan is beautiful  ;D

Nedalezz wonderful last update there and I cant wait for the next one!!!

Six years after the inception of the Fursan Oil Port, the new Fursan Port has been finished, bringing it with the end to the growing ordeal traders and companies were facing in bringing their products and goods into the country through sea transportation. With almost $54 million invested in the Fursan Port, it can accommodate 3 ships at the same time, and the container clearing process has been given a significant overhaul in order to facilitate and ease it for people with containers on the port.

Having officially begun operation in the 10th Year, the Fursan Port will remain efficient enough to handle the demand capacity for a population of two and a half million. Currently, Fursan's population is around 100,000, while the total population of Qumma is estimated to be at 185,000.

There have been complaints, however, from the inside circles of the QEC about the location of the Fursan Port. They claim that the location will not allow the QEC to make proper extension projects without going too far south, and thus too close the residential Fursan. The complaint is a valid one; inevitably, the port will be outgrown by the needs of the country, and the only logical solution the QEC has come up with is to construct another seaport further north, a solution that will be sure to bring with it delays, huge expenses, and will render the current seaport useless.

As Fursan develops further north, its industrial sector has also started to become noticeable. Currently, oil export represents 98% of total exports, but given all the accommodations the government has presented to the industrial sector, it is no surprise a few factories are beginning to pop up. With the local economy surging, the local market is also a lucrative one for small start up factories looking for simple and relatively pain free markets in which to produce and distribute their products.

For now, we will leave you with a few pictures of the Fursan Port.

fantastic update, where on earth did you get that office building made up of four cubes...???

truly great work and great effects....

Nedalezz, you never cease to amaze me. The back story is wonderful and makes me feel like I'm right there taking part in the ups and downs of Fursan's growth. And the port looks great in the daytime, but you know how I feel about the night shots! So indulge my fantasy and let me believe you put the moon and stars in the water just for me! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan

Lovely port, nedalezz! There's a lot of detail there that seems like it took a while to get right! You're always doing something fantastic here, it's a pleasure to view it!

Keep it up!

Dustin

The Fursan Port is looking so wonderful!! Great work on it! :thumbsup:

Looking forward to the next update... ;)

NASCAR_Guy: Hehe, you are right! Well, WAS would be the applicable term. I really dont have time to keep up anymore, and if Im not contributing regularly, then I dont have anything to add. Anyway, thank you for stopping by, hope you do so regularly!

Pikatchoum: Thanks! Development is certainly slower in this MD than in others, but atleast I dont keep repeating the same mistake I make with my other cities; I develop them way too fast, then feel I've lost total control over them and decide to scratch them.

panthersimcity4: Thank you for the kind comment! And Fursan loves you!

Pat: Merci! I hope you liked the new (albeit a bit short) update!

mightygoose: I believe I downloaded that building from the STEX, but I cannot remember what the name is anymore. I could be wrong however, it could be dled from the file exchange on this site. Thank you for commenting!

Jmouse: The moon and the stars were put in the water, truly, just for you! The first time I did so, I was thinking to myself, I hope Joan likes this extra touch to the nightshots! Thank you for always leaving the nicest comments.

thundercrack83: Actually, there was alot more detail I wanted to add to the port, but I just didnt have the capacity or the building skill. I wanted to create a long outlet into the sea that curved over the seaport like you see in RL, but I had no idea where to begin. However, Im relatively satisfied with how it worked out...I guess for the size of Qumma, you cant ask for anything better! And thank you for the wonderful comment!

bat: Thanks! I just caught up on the last few updates of your MD, fantastic stuff!

It's very beautiful and it's so réalistic  &apls &apls

Exceptional, nedalezz! :thumbsup: I really like the overview - it made me start wondering if there could be a little oasis somewhere in the future. Meanwhile, I can't believe Fursan has gotten so big, but it should come as no surprise considering the consistently high quality of your work! ;)

Until next time...
Joan

A very nice port you have here. Always glad to see one of your updates.

nedalezz wow fantastic ariel!!!! I cant wait for the next update...

So beautiful... &apls &apls

Nice, finally the new port!
Those waters got to be calm if that is such an open port.

(Also, now Liberty Islands can bust up the import-export with this possible capacity growth.)

I missed some updates (sorry!), but I'm still a big fan of Qumma, I hope I will have more time to visit it more often in future  :)

Great development reports, the seaport is something I've been waiting from a long time! I don't know anything about Qumma"s climate and especially the possibility of strorms, but maybe you would like to think about some breakwaters?  :)

As for the city, I'm especially interested how you merge modern buildings with an old city structure. It is always fascinating and it's not easy, both in SC4 and in the real life. I'm very curious how will look the city after the next 10 years.
Good luck for you and your excellent MD!  :thumbsup:

I haven't visited QUmma and Fursan in a long time. I am glad to be just in time to see that spectacular port that you constructed. I'm loving it  :satisfied:

Hi Nedalezz,

Some great updates there.  The port is looking good and the storyline makes interesting points - where will it expand - buthey it's a good problem to have if you need expansion!

The overview of Fursan shows just how well the city has grown.  What population is needed before Fursan FC get a "proper" stadium? ;)

All the best,

Paul

Wow, Fursan is big! I wish I could visit in real life.  ;D

The QEC, in accordance with its 12th Year of existence, brought in a private organization to summarize, independently and without any governmental input, Qumma as a whole. After months of research and full access to all areas of the country, the group finally released their results. The analysis was mostly an encouraging, positive one, but it also highlighted some growing problems being faced in Qumma today. Read on!


The history of this region is vastly unknown, although folklore and nomadic legends suggest that it has been the home of indigenous nomad tribes for well over 2000 years, with official history telling us it was originally explored of Phoenician traders, believed also to be part of the first group to settle in Fursan. Although difficult to make sense of the time (or the reality) of these stories, a lot of them do suggest that they have at least some semblance of truth. For example, a popular legend with the Buraimi tribe is one that tells of a young warrior who traveled north and witnessed the greatest army ever assembled marching across the desert, filled with sorceresses, priests, warriors, and the biggest beasts to have ever walked the earth. It is highly probable that the 'warrior' in question traveled north on a trading mission and witnessed the Carthaginian Hannibal's army marching to what was their inevitable defeat in Europe. 

   It is believed that between 30 to 40 main tribes exist today, with hundreds of other smaller ones. One can easily identify a person's tribe simply by asking for the surname, which is a direct indicator of what tribe he or she might belong to, having taken the surname from his or hers tribe name. For example, a man called Hassan Sahrawi would belong to the northern tribe called Sahrawi, who are either descendents or ascendants of the Western Saharan indigenous people. Most of these tribes keep very little in way of actual record keeping, relying instead, as stated above, on folk stories and legends to tell their tales, most with gross amounts of embellishments (such as the story of Sayyed Sakhrah, who singled handedly defeated an army of over 5,000 invaders from the east, accounted as Mali, in one bright afternoon.)

   What is known is that tribes, throughout Qumman history and today, are fiercely loyal to their kind. The Qummans identify themselves through religion and tribe first and foremost, before anything else. The QEC has a lot of dealings with tribe chiefs, citing them as representatives of their people. As with any region whose history was filled with tribal importance, Qumma's history is filled with tales of tribal wars, prosperity, and trade. It is also understood that the tribes were almost exclusively nomadic, except of the tribes of Turbia (who are believed to be the first settlers of Fursan along with the Phoenicians), and Sahrawi, first settlers of Khaymeh.

   Approximately 500 years ago, the village of Fursan and the entire surrounding area of acquired from the Portuguese, who at the time laid claim to the land, by the Dawa family. Throughout the next 500 years, Qumma was forgotten, with little development coming by way from the Dawa family. The tribal leaders were all given gifts and countless gestures of goodwill by the Dawas, and in return, the chiefs recognized the Dawas as the royal family of the land of Qumma, although the absolute power remained in the hands of the tribes when it came to their own affairs.

             It wasn't until 12 years ago, however, the a man called Berber Dawa began taking interest in the country. Having spent years paying for a team to research if there was any oil to be found in Qumma, the results showed large quantities, both on land and off shore, of the coveted resource. Upon the discovery, Berber Dawa set up a governmental body and began developing the towns of Fursan and Khaymeh. Each town has developed its own culture thanks to the difference in tribal culture, something which has added a unique touch to the country. Situated on the more temperate coastal region, Fursan resembles a Mediterranean city due to the influence of the Turbia tribe, which traces a lot of its roots back to the Phoenicians, who of course were from the Mediterranean. Khaymeh, on the other hand, resembles a city found the desert regions of the Arabian Peninsula, with the Sahrawi tribe, founders of Khaymeh, tracing their roots back to the Arabic people. As such, their architecture and culture is vastly different than their Fursani counterparts, with more focus of religion, education, and order. This difference in attitudes and culture is so evident that the architectural styles between the two are complete contrasts.

   After the Dawa declared The Royal Republic of Qumma a country and independent in the 1st Year, much has changed. The small fishing village of Fursan (pop. 430) and the tiny trading market village of Khaymeh (pop. 355) have developed into major centers in the region. Fursan, now with a population that recently eclipsed 150,000, has shown no signs of its growth letting up. It has become a major regional center for healthcare and education, with the University of Liberty Isands in Qumma (ULIQ) touted as the best university in all of West Africa. Khaymeh now boasts a population of 70,000, and is the oil capital of Qumma, not to mention its position as a major desert trade center as well.




Before looking into the future, one must attempt to solve Qumma's issues of the present. The most glaring concern since the inception of the QEC has been the labor force; like so many other oil rich but sparsely populated countries, Qumma relies on foreign immigrants to do work Qummans otherwise wouldn't do. In this country, that is the work on the oil fields. Most of the immigrants come from the countries of Western Sahara, Mauritania, and Mali, and although Qumma's human rights record has remained high and violations very low (which is a big issue for other countries in similar situations), the fact remains wages remain low and poverty is evident, especially in the Khaymeh area.

   The QEC has made it a point to show not to segregate its immigrants, issuing for them resident permits and giving full rights to come and go as they please within the country. They have also made it mandatory for all private and government owned companies to restrict their working hours, stating that an employee has the right to 12 hours of rest everyday. Fines for any company attempting to violate that law and force employees to work for extra hours with no compensation have been very heavy, and in some cases, lead to a full shutdown of the company in question. Every employee arriving into Qumma, whether through land borders or the Berber Dawa International Airport, is handed a small booklet stating his or her rights, and is encouraged to go to the authorities if at anytime the employee felt any of those rights were being violated.

   Hence, the problem with Qumma's labor force is not actually the human rights, but the poverty that they continue to experience. The QEC's required minimum wage of $300 a month with rising cost of living expenses has continued to make it hard on the immigrant workers, and although they see more money than they can at home, they remain well below the poverty line. A trip through Khaymeh put everything into perspective; miles upon miles of shanty towns leading up to the center of the city, where the majestic Al-Iman Mosque sits opposite its lush gardens and lake. To the east of the mosque resides the elite class of Khaymeh, but just across the road from one of the blocks of upper middle class houses is another long row of shanty towns, filled with immigrant workers.

   The QEC has taken the fight against poverty seriously, but its measures have so far proved to be inefficient. Initially, the minimum wage was $150 per month (double the average in West Africa), and was raised in during the 9th Year to $300. There has been talk and debate about bumping it up to $400 a month, but there has been some reluctance to that plan, with some members of the QEC saying that the money that will be spent would have instead went to developing Qumman infrastructure. They argue that the minimum wage is 5 times over the average for the rest of the West African countries, and that Qumma itself is a developing country with its own problems to solve. What is worrying is that out of Qumma's current 270,000 population, almost 100,000 are foreign immigrants whom live in poverty.

   That being said, Qumma's future remains a bright one if the QEC can continue to manage its remarkable growth with sustainable development that will be able to contribute in both the long term and the short term. Its geographic location and its relaxed laws on commerce and industry make it potentially a great trading hub for a region that is experiencing a huge boom economically and demographically. To the north sits the waking giant that is North Africa, and the south the fast developing West Africa, and at the center of it all, sits Qumma.

   The QEC has already drawn up plans to develop a free zone that mimics the Jebel Ali Free Zone in the United Arab Emirates, but in order to support its free zone, it is currently in the process of acquiring container ships and operating its own shipping line, with unbeatable rates and direct routes to all of Africa. If that plan goes as planned, African trade will begin to change its focus from Dubai to Qumma, and with hugely positive affects on the local market.

   The expansion of its oil refineries and drilling continues to be a primary focus of the QEC, as well. Currently the Khaymeh Oil Refinery, which recently experienced a major expansion, and the Cevella Oil Refinery, a much small younger brother, are the only two in operation, but the QEC has plans to expand that number to 5 by the end of the 20th Year. In addition to oil, large deposits of diamonds and gold have been found in the rocky hills in the south-east of Qumma, known as Ras-il-Abyad, and it is believed that there is also heavy deposits of zinc in the region as well. While currently nothing is planned to make use of these resources, the QEC has sealed off the area, a sure sign that something is in the works.

   Overall, the future looks bright for Qumma, and the QEC has surprised as an entity that truly seems to work for the people without all the usual signs of third world governmental corruption. The final word continues to go to Berber Dawa, the defacto President for Life, but the Dawa Royal Family, while hugely popular, is more symbolic than anything. The leader of Qumma, however, will always be a member of the royal family, and whispers are abounding that the daughter of the 60 year old Dawa will become the next President of Qumma when his time is up.




OVERVIEW: Fursan's history can be traced back atleast 2,500 years, when it is believed Phoenician explorers and the Turbia tribe founded a small fishing village and became its first settlers. Up until 12 years ago, however, the population of Fursan was 430, so its historic growth to 150,000 in the given timespan is nothing short of phenomenal. From its single lane road along the coast major 4 lane avenues have sprung up, and the city has expanded in all directions, a sprawling maze of Mediterranean style architecture making it look like it belongs in Italy instead of Africa. However, to experience Fursan is to experience hospitality and friendliness in its true essence; one can never truly shake off that easy going feeling that seems to take over upon entering this unique city. While the business district might remind some of a city in the United States, its culture is unique to anything else. A growing city with a small village feel, one can't help but be convinced that no matter how big Fursan gets, the charm will always stay the same.



ECONOMY: The economy of Fursan relies mainly on the Fursan Port, its small but growing industrial sector, and the developing tourism industry. The average income for a person per capita in Fursan is $8,500 yearly, a much higher rate than can be found in the rest of West Africa, so the retail sector continues to produce high numbers, an encouraging sign for the QEC because that inevitably leads of bigger corporations to set up shop in Fursan. The Fursan Port has two separate entities, the container port and the oil port. Both generate a good amount of money for the QEC and the local Fursani economy, while the industrial sector located next to the Fursan Port continues to develop at healthy rate. Some of the bigger companies are include: Champion Stores, a retail store comprised of mostly foot stuff and other small commodities; Neumann Group, the biggest real estate developers in the Qumma owned by Liberty Islands entrepreneurs; Parochian Steel, the biggest steel factory in Qumma; Qumma National Bank, currently residing in the tallest building in Qumma, situated in downtown Fursan. The central business district, which has grown around Dawa Avenue, is the financial center of Qumma. Plans to continue its expansion is a big part of the QEC project for Fursan.



TRANSPORTATION:  The main transportation hub of Qumma, Fursan is the only official entry and exit point in the country by sea or air into the country. Qumma Airways is the national carrier, fully owned by the government, and currently serves 3 locations with its Boeing 737-800 aircraft; Casablanca, Nouakchott, and Il-Iyun. Plans to expand its network are not known. Berber Dawa International Airport, the only one of its kind in the country, is situated just northeast of Fursan, and is served by Qumma Airways and the national carriers of Liberty Islands and West End. The Fursan Port is used as means to import and export goods, but it handles passenger ships from time to time, although that is a rare occasion. Within the city, public transportation exists only in the form of privately owned taxis, but mandatory meters have canceled out the hassle of having to bargain for the price of the trip. Generally, traffic within Fursan is good, and while the smaller roads can sometimes appear a little bit cramped, it is rare that an actual traffic jam develops. There is one road that leads to Khaymeh (about 8 hour drive by car), and currently under construction is a major highway heading north, believed to be developed to support the traffic going in and out of the future free zone near the seaport.



ENTERTAINMENT: Fursan is filled with small cafes and restaurants, which seemingly appear around every corner. There is no lack of activities here, whether it is 10AM or 10PM. While small budget and family owned hotels and inns can be found all around the city, there are two 5 star hotels in Fursan; the spectacular and majestic Qumma Royal Palace Hotel and the imposing Coral Gables Hotel, with the latter situated on Dawa Avenue and the former right next to the Berber Dawa's personal residence, in close proximity to Presidential Lane. The first one anyone's list of things to do while in Qumma should be a visit to the heavenly and romantic Presidential Lane; although not all of it is accessible to the public, the Red Mosque and the Fursan Cultural Center are, as well as the Berber Dawa Royal Park behind them. Also close by is what many consider the best university in West Africa, University of Liberty Islands in Qumma. This joint project has been an overwhelming success, and has single-handedly changed the future and fortunes of many young adults in the area. Having experienced the Red Mosque, one must also visit St. Patrick Cathedral, found close to downtown Fursan in the Christian district of the city. Built in the 5th Year, this landmark is one of the city's favorite institutions.

As the night kicks in, the city doesn't look any of its appeal. Whether one is looking for a quiet evening on the corner of one Fursan's many neighborhoods or looking for a night partying away with city's trendsetters, there is something for everyone. The cuisine is as unique as the culture, with a staple of rice, seafood, meats, and vegetables. Bars are also readily available throughout the city, and none are seedy. The QEC keeps high standards, and makes sure they are abided by.  For the best in Fursan nightlife, Zinc, located in the Coral Gables Hotel, is a grand, opulent night club where the city's rich go to see and be seen. Elsewhere, District, situated in downtown, and Grass on the old coastal road are just as much fun, if just a little less glamorous.



FACILITIES: Fursan has become known as a hub for education and healthcare in the region, featuring arguably the best university in West Africa, as well as top-class healthcare facilities. The University of Liberty Islands in Qumma is a large university which was a joint venture between the Liberty Islands and the QEC, and has been a resounding success, attracting the brightest minds from all over the region. Situated just north of the Dawa Royal Park, the university is also the sight of the most famous (and largest) hospital in Qumma, the ULIQ Medical School.




OVERVIEW: Khaymeh might be only half as big as its coastal sibling, but its development began later than Fursan as well. Initially a small desert trading village, the construction of the Khaymeh Oil Refinery immediately changed the face of the settlement. In 8 years, Khaymeh has seen its population grow from under 1,000 to over 70,000, and there have been no signs that it will let up anytime soon. The oil money is starting to trickle down to the general public of the city, with several residents owning small plots of land being used by the government to drill oil (for a fee, of course), and the wealth that is beginning to show in Khaymeh is certainly up to par with the capital. Its Arab-inspired architecture is the result of its culture; the Sahrawi tribe, who found the village, are direct descendents of the Arabic race. The difference between Khaymeh and Fursan is easily noticeable, especially on the streets of the former, where religion plays a much more important role in the daily life of its residents than the latter. However, like Fursan, the city is truly unique to anything else, with its eclectic mix of African, Arabic, Berber, and European descendents all living together in this rugged desert town.



ECONOMY: Khaymeh's economy is based on 2 things: oil and trade. Because of Qumma's liberal import/export and trade laws, traders from all over the region descend on Khaymeh to buy from wholesalers who are benefiting from their country's policies. Throughout its history, it has always been a trade post, and that reputation has become even more notorious in the region since the inception of the QEC. Khaymeh's bread and butter, however, is oil. The site of the country's largest oil refinery, the city has seen an influx of wealth the past few years as a direct result of the oil trade, and its residents are starting to show it. Despite that, a quick look at the statistics will show that just over 60% of Khaymeh's residents are below the poverty line, made up exclusively of immigrant workers and their families who have to come to work the oil fields. The QEC has taken measures to try to battle the situation, but the problem seems to be growing instead of subsiding as the immigrant rate continues to increase. Qumman residents in Khaymeh see an average of $13,200 per capita, while non-Qumman residents average only $450 per capita.



TRANSPORTATION: There is no way to get to Khaymeh directly from abroad; it takes approximately 10 hours to get to the city from the eastern border, around 8 hours from the northern border, around 12 from the southern border, and around 8 hours from Fursan to the west. Coming through air or sea is a hassle, since the only point of entry is the capital city, but plans to make a small airport to serve Khaymeh is already in the works. Private charter buses are available for rentals if one is looking for a comfortable trip to Fursan, but otherwise, it's a long drive with no stops along the way. The roads are wide inside the city, and there should be no cases of traffic at anytime during the day. The wide avenues are plentiful, and the QEC has a done fantastic job of meeting the city's growing car numbers, developing new avenues and roads at a phenomenal pace. One should have no trouble getting from Point A to Point B within the city, and like Fursan, all taxis operate mandatory meter charges.


ENTERTAINMENT: There is not much to go by in Khaymeh in terms of conventional entertainment, as the city is a trader town with emphasis on religion, order, and education. There are a few mid-range hotels to stay at; none, however, are even close to luxurious. The Bolmar Hotel is recommended because of its decent rates and its large, clean rooms. It is located on Berber Dawa Avenue in the center of town, just south of the Al-Iman Mosque. By far the grandest building in Khaymeh, the mosque is the center on which the city revolves around. Constructed about 8 years ago, the mosque is a sight to behold during Friday prayers, as it seems the entire city descends upon it for worship. Across from the Mosque is the Al-Iman Mosque Gardens, a park with a wonderful man-made lake, open to the public all day and night. A great place to relax to escape the bustle of Khaymeh, it is a sanctuary in the middle of the city.

Nightlife in Khaymeh is completely confounded to the larger hotels on Berber Dawa Avenue, which operate bars (some have nightclubs) within their quarters. While Qummans are very tolerant people, being drunk in people, acceptable behavior in Fursan, is frowned upon here, and police will request and escort you back to your home if drunken behavior becomes obvious.



FACILITIES: While small clinics do exist in Khaymeh, anyone in need of serious medical attention is almost always sent to Fursan. The city has recently completed construction of the Khaymeh Medical Hospital along the newly developed Barada Avenue, but at the time of writing was till working on completing its medical staff, and as such had not been opened to the general public. Once it opens its doors, it will be able to accommodate over 10,000 patients, and will have 440 doctors on call. A single high school and elementary school exists in Khaymeh, but for any further education, prospects head over to ULIQ in the capital city to continue their need to learn.

Every time you post a new update, I am knocked off my feet! Magnificent work here, nedalezz! I just love the desert look and feel that you present, my friend!

Keep up the incredible work!

Dustin

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg442.imageshack.us%2Fimg442%2F1146%2Fbowing036ly9.gif&hash=f59438f8fe9cf21184006bb856e2a6dc3dbc7a12)


Incredible update.  The pics are great and the read was excellent. 
Like Dustins says, the desert feel is perfect and I love the shanty part of town.

Robin  :thumbsup:

Nedalezz, once again you have outdone yourself! I thoroughly enjoyed the history, more so since I see some RL philosophies sprinkled throughout. You've done a wonderful job of breathing life into Qumma by incorporating your obvious knowledge of world affairs into the region's own story.

And I just knew there had to be an oasis somewhere out there! Love the farms, and the shanties bring back memories of sights I've seen before. Then, as I look at the rest of the photos, I see just how well you've made meticulous planning pay off. Fursan has developed beautifully and the seaport fits in quite well. Also, the sharp contrast between park-like scenes and crowded living quarters is stunning but so very real.

And speaking of stunning, the Cathedral and Mosque by night are beautiful. You are one of few who has succeeded in breaking through common limitations and created new pathways in the process. Congratulations!

Until next time...
Joan

Hello Nedalezz,

I spent some time reading your story and I must say I'm very impressed! It is maybe the most complex, thoughtful and realistic presentation of an imaginary region which I have seen ever.
Your story is very well-ordered and detailed, but it is not bored. It makes the region alive and - together with your excellent pictures - it really moves the viewer's imagination. And it isn't easy.

But it's not all. Your thoughts about the society history and it's present shape and development are really interesting. A non-democratic but enlightened regime is maybe the best in many cases. Discovering of large natural resources has most often a very bad influence on surrounding areas and people living on them. Also, the politics of big industrial and financial companies is mostly egoistic and aggressive, and none of democratic systems has an efficient method to protect citizens against it. But who knows if the next president will be a great person too?...
Anyway, your story makes some problems of the present world closer and better visible. It would be good if there would be more such governments and such countries in our real world  :)

As always, great pictures! Two desert landscapes are fantastic, there is so much sun on them  :thumbsup:
And of course, excellent aerial views. It is a great pleasure to visit Qumma!

Adam

A really really great new update! Wonderful information and pictures of Qumma!! :thumbsup:

Hi Nedalezz,

That is indeed the most detailed yet interesting MD history I've seen.

Qumma is one of, if not my favourite MD because you really do feel as though you are watching a country grow, I love it.

And to add what little I can to the story:

Parochian Steel continue to expand their operations in Qumma, principally as local demand for steel grows due to the many construction projects.

WestJet, the national carrier of West End continue to operate one flight per week between Great Portland Airport and Berba Dawa International.  As the only flight from Western Europe, it is becoming more popular, with average flights now 70% full.  Whilst not its most profitable route, WestJet see the destination as a key strategic route into a growing region.  West End will build a new International Airport during the next few years, at which point there may be scope for expansion.

Fursan FC, winners of the first West End International Trophy are still fondly remembered in West End and there is talk of a second tournament when Fursan will be invited back.  West End is an avid sporting nation and is happy to offer any help to Qumma in development of this area.

The Qumma consulate in Oxford is fully operational now.

All the best and congratulations on your excellent MD.

Paul

Awesome, love the density &apls

nedalezz simply wonderful and I dare to repeat this one but heck you deserve this again!!!!!!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg442.imageshack.us%2Fimg442%2F1146%2Fbowing036ly9.gif&hash=f59438f8fe9cf21184006bb856e2a6dc3dbc7a12)

You sir a truely gifted and wow!!! BTW where did you get those 2 buildings you used for the University of Liberty Islands in Qumma ??  Stunning update and I soo cant wait for more.........

Simpson: Thanks for the compliments! Hope you become a regular visitor.

Jmouse: I really enjoyed writing the history; I love recreating my own nation. I try to be as realistic as possible, but also with my personal point of views on certain subjects (namely, tolerance for all and peace!)

Schulmanator: Thank you for the nice comment; its great to see an owner of such as a great MD comment on mine regularly.

Pat: Merci Beaucoup! As for the buildings, unfortunately, I dont remember what the links were :( I believe I got them from the STEX though, and I do remember that one of them (the one of the top) was part of a spanish university pack...although I could be wrong! Again, thanks.

BoKriF: Thank you! Yeah, the waters are really calm in the area (in reality, I could get those breakwaters to look good!)

Ennedi: Im so glad my update actually made someone think about RL issues, and its always a great pleasure seeing your comments here; they are always greatly appreciated. Your comments are always thoughtful, detailed, and motivating! Im so glad you enjoyed the history and information aspect about Qumma. Thank you again for taking the time, reading, and commenting.

sebes: Well, Im happy you revisited after such a long absence, and even happier you commented! Thank you for the kind words.

paroch: You'll be happy with the next update, when the first stadium in Qumma will be unveiled! Some of the biggest companies in Qumma are West End owned, and Parochian Steel is by far the largest factory in the country. It is such an honor to know that hold Qumma is such a high regard; believe me, I feel the same about West End. Thank you for the amazing compliments.

panthersimcity4: I wish you could visit Qumma in real life too! Thank you for the comment.

thundercrack83: Thank you for the great comments! Its always great to know that someone follows my MD so intently. I hope you keep enjoying it :)

rooker1: Thanks! Coming from someone with such an awe-inspiring MD, it means alot. Thank you so much.

bat: Thanks! Hey, your MD is almost a classic! I enjoyed the last update very much.

rusummer1: Thank you, all credit goes to MBear for her awesome MED set.

With the birth of Jalal Usmani, a baby boy of Usmani tribe descent, Fursan now has officially 150,000 residents living with the city. From 430 to 150,000 in 12 years mark remarkable growth, and with no signs of letting up, doubling the population might not even take another dozen years.



The 12th Year has also been one of development for Fursan, with two key projects seeing their completion: The Doraba Tower and the Amira Dawa Stadium, both having been undertaken by the QEC financially and management wise.

The Doraba Tower was constructed and developed by the QEC-owned Qumma Development Group (QDG), and serves as an office building for many companies. The QEC owns the top 5 floors, but all the rest are available for rental and sale. In total, the building is comprised of 31 stories, and is situated on Dawa Avenue, to the south of the Neumann Group building. Right next to the Doraba Tower is the QDG Building, which serves as the headquarters for the development company. Although the Neumann Group still ranks as the No.1 development company in Qumma, QDG has quickly risen to No.2 and has its eyes set on the top. The Doraba Tower cost nearly $32 million upon completion.



The QDG was also responsible for the development of the Amira Dawa Stadium, named after Berber Dawa's daughter (touted to be the next President of Qumma). With a seating capacity of 45,000, the stadium will feature as the home grounds for the newly instated Qumman national football team, thanks to the creation of the Qumma Sports Ministry, and also to Qumma's most famous sports side, Fursan FC. The stadium is situated on Halman Boulevard, which runs parallel with Dawa Avenue, to its east. The Amira Dawa Stadium will also play host to any upcoming events and concerts which would require large accommodation.

Hey Nedalezz, I love it.  The overview is really amazing - shows just how far Fursan has come.  The Doraba Tower is good, but the Amira Dawa Stadium is my favourite, a truly fantastic home for a team of champions.

All the best,

Paul

As always I love your panoramic views, both day and night ones  :thumbsup:
Wow, the new stadium - what about next championships this year?  ;) A large new stadium is planned in Shosaloza too...

Sometimes it seems I am a bit too slow ...

Great MD you have here - rather extraordinary location with a lot of nice side information, details and panoramic views. I like the use of the mediterrean houses in Fursan as well as the Arabian look in Khaymeh!

Oh, BTW how did you get the oil to the harbour? Wouldn't i be nice if there was a railway connection for both long distance freight as well as passenger transportation ...  ;)  :D

Take care (and don't forget to make backups!)

Bernhard  :thumbsup:

Like the new night shots of Fursan and also great overview of it! :thumbsup:

btw, Congrats on more than 400 replies! &apls

Your update is magnifical I really love your city
And it's a so realistic update so I want more
&apls &apls &apls
;)

When I saw the latest overview, I was inspired to backtrack and find this link (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=2025.msg62671#msg62671) to Fursan 150,000 Sims ago! If you will permit, I'll bring the photo forward for comparison.

Hope you do not tire of hearing me say what a wonderful job you've done, and how great the latest update looks, nedalezz! That first night shot makes me feel that I'm in a plane which will soon land at Berber Dawa International Airport. In the second, I'm standing on a tall building looking out at - and admiring - the city lights, and in the third I am looking out the window of my hotel room contemplating where I will sit in the Amira Dawa Stadium while enjoying the upcoming concert. Too bad Bob Marley (http://www.bobmarley.com/) can't be there!  :-[

Your history of Fursan does inspire the imagination, and your wonderful photos bring the city to life. I do not say this often so it is not a mindless and idle comment - I really do look forward to seeing more of your work.

Until next time...
Joan

Quote

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F2008-EndoftheYearOverview.jpg&hash=764b377d224d197bb30299832d29475afb53ce3e)

Simply stunning work here Nedalezz on Update 30!!! Its ok maybe I can try my luck with some other folks who know their stuff but I will try and search first, thank you and again what a wonderful update!! I cant wait till # 31

Update 30 is just as beautiful as updates 1-29, my friend! I love the night shot of the stadium, especially! You continue to do excellent work, keep it up!

Dustin

paroch: Fursan FC would be more than glad to host a team from West End for a friendly in the Amira Dawa Stadium; in fact, Qumma has recently assembled its first football national team, so a Qumma-West End match would be a great first ever match for the stadium!

Ennedi: The Qumma Sports Ministry has recently drawn up plans for a Qumma Premier League; its initial plan is to have 10 teams. Fursan FC has already jumped on board :) I cant wait to see the stadium that you develop; Im sure, like everything else in your MD, it will be a sight to behold.

Nardo69: Hehe, currently there are pipes running underground to the harbor, but rail tracks are being developed (but obviously not at the same skill level as you!) Im glad you like the MD.

bat: Thanks! Im waiting for the day that your MD deservedly becomes a classic!

Simpson: Thanks for the comment! Hopefully, I'll have an update up soon.

Jmouse: The contrast is amazing! Thanks for posting that link of Fursan 10 years back :) Ofcourse, you are free to do as you please in this MD! Each comment you give flatters everytime, and Im happy you like the pictures so much. Bob Marley can't make it, but maybe one of his sons can! I enjoy writing the history as much as anything, and developing the story that is Qumma as well. I hope I continue to deliver work that will impress you!

Pat: Sorry about not being able to help out! Thank you for the great compliments and comment!

thundercrack83: The stadium seemed to be a hit, so I mustve done something right :) Actually, I had never done anything with a stadium in SC before other than plopping it, and I was opening the parks and the parking lots around it wouldnt make it look too out of place. Thank you for your continued support!

Superb update again.
The Daroba Tower and the stadium adds a new face to this city. They show the growth and the success.
Nice to know that the local companies got bigger and successful, like the QDG.
If the QDG wants to spread abroad, Liberty Islands will be welcomeing it, also, the Liberty Fund would like to invest in the QDG.

Such awesome pictures! Qumma is a terrific place and I look forward to many, many more updates.

Hi Nedalezz,

Well, as soon as you said it, the West End Football Association started assembling a team from amongst the best teams in West End.  There are players from FC Portland, Regent Royals, West End United, Wardouroda and Kingly Flash.  The West End national team are training together now.  They arrive at Berber Dawa International very soon and look forward to playing in the new stadium.

I checked back in the West End records and saw that Fursan FC beat West End United (not the national team) 1-0 in the semi-finals of the tournament, and I am sure there will be players from Fursan FC in teh Qumma squad, so that should add to the spice!

If you need anything from me to help with the match, just let me know.  I am sure you can guess the national team colours ;)

All the best,

Paul 

Not really an update, but some news and a couple pictures about development in Khaymeh; specifically, the opening of an airport!

About half as big as Berber Dawa Int'l Airport in Fursan, the Khaymeh International Airport does feature all the necessary ingredients to be able to handle international and local flights. The only flights, however, is the 1h30 trip to Fursan, served by Qumma Airways, with 2 daily fights; in the morning and at night. So without further ado, the Khaymeh International Airport!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F13-KhaymehInternationalAirport.jpg&hash=d3acadd01f54f793b62d133b3be7923ce6170445)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi135.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fq145%2Fnedalezz%2F13-KhaymehInternationalAirport2.jpg&hash=43a0b420d1361ff8b3447c2f1cef2cb2da3530c3)

A few facts, two simple pics and yet I still love it.
The fence around the airport is a very good touch as well as the trees on the avenue leading to the airport.
Robin  :thumbsup:

I like this airport. It is not oversized but looks complete and well designed. It's obvious that these are first steps of an air transport in Khaymeh and I suppose we will see it's development in future.
Maybe it would be good to provide the following faccilities:
- One or two hangars and a garage for technical service vehicles; even in small airports it is often necessary to make some repairing or conservation works, unexpected situations also happen from time to time. And maybe a few rich Khaymeh citizens would rent a place for their private planes?
- a small cargo area; The development of the whole region is dynamic and I suppose it would be good to provide a place for goods (for example spare parts for machinery) delivered from other countries.

I'm not an airport specialist, but I think providing such faccilities can be reasonable even in the small airport. Anyway, looking at other activities of the Qumma government I'm sure that everything is very well and thoroughly planned  :)

And of course beautiful shots! (as always  :D)

Adam

Hello Nedalezz
It's a small update but it's so beautiful
Your aiport look very good &apls
So I will be herre when you make another update  :D ;)

Fantastic two new pictures there, nedalezz! :thumbsup:
And looking to the next pictures! ;)

I love the smaller airport, nedalezz! You've managed to capture that feel that smaller, more regional airports have.

And I agree with Robin (rooker1) above--the fences and the tree-lined avenue really added a nice touch!

Keep up the fantastic work, my friend!

Dustin

Wow, that is awesome. It's just an airport, and yet you have been able to make it into a beautiful work of art.  ;D

Even your "little" updates are "big" in their own special way, nedalezz! I recall visiting a small airport similar to Khaymeh near where I used to live. In fact. we watched my son land there, then we spent some time with him before he took my daughter and me for a spin in a single-engine plane! Fond memories, but our airport was not nearly as beautifully landscaped as yours!

Until next time...
Joan

Splendid airport , I like much this small corner of arranged dessert. The road which conduit is well thought there with over its lengths the lines of trees .

Cheers

Oh yes, looking good.  It reminds me of Taba airport in Egypt.  One small terminal, middle of the desert and one road in/out of the airport.  I hope the facilities inside your terminal are better  ;)

I think the airport is beautifully sized for the town it serves.  And I can see there is room for growth as and when it is needed.

Great job.

Minimalist, although nice airport!

Apologies for the lack of real updates; this month has been an extremely busy one at work, and obviously, as much as I love Sim City, real life does take precedence!

I managed to have some time to play around today, and began the development of the Fursan Free Zone; the new duty and tax free area new the port open for any company in the world to operate in. The FFZ, as it is called for short, is meant to do two things: continue to strengthen Qumma's growing trade and business sector, bringing in more liquidity into the country, and increase the middle-high class population, causing more spending power, which equals a stronger economy.

The FFZ is modeled after the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai, and with close participation with the Emirati authorities, the launching of the FFZ has been a success. Phase One has already been completed, and work on Phase Two has just begun. International trade in Qumma is predicted to grow 17% by the end of the 15th Year (we are currently in the 13th Year), and with the opening of Phase Two scheduled for the end of the 15th Year, there are no signs of slowing down after that.

Below is the aerial shot of the Fursan Port and the new Fursan Free Zone:

This new economic area looks very nice, I'm sure alot of companies will be investing. I do have one suggestion for the port however, you should put in a breakwater, to keep ocean waves out therefore making it alot easier for port operations, all ports have one (unless they are upriver or in a similar situation of course).

Hi Nedalezz,

The free zone and port are looking good.  Glad to see Berber Dawa is thinking ahead!

Paul

Nice work on the port and FFZ, nedalezz! And I like your ideas for strengthening Fursan's economy. All too often, RL governments want slice of the pie right off the top and fail to see the long-term benefits of curbing their initial greed to wait for better things down the road.

Until the next update...
Joan

Brilliant port, nedalezz! Just brilliant! And the backstory on the FFZ is great, too--very creative!

Looking forward to more here, as always, my friend!

Dustin

Very good port nedalezz  &apls

Great work on that port!

And looking forward to more...

Totally loving the port and dessert mods, bring on the update! ;D

Alex :thumbsup:

In order to further enhance Qumma's reputation as a trade and economic hub in the region, the QEC has decided to upgrade and expand Qumma Airways' fleet and routes. The first order of business has been to buy 2 more Boeing 737-800 to go with the one already in operation, bringing the fleet total to 3 aircrafts. It has also expanded its routes to feature Dakar, Algiers, Accra, and Lagos.

Below are the domestic and international route maps for Qumma Airways (please note: Il-Iyun, although not part of Qumman soil, is considered a domestic flight.)


With the added routes, Qumma Airways is expected to serve up to 300,000 passengers in the 14th Year, significantly increasing its current numbers. Berber Dawa International Airport will be expected to serve 400,000 passengers in the 14th Year, thanks to direct flights from Went End and Liberty Islands. Currently, only 3 airlines serve Fursan; the national carriers of West End and Liberty Islands, and Qumma Airways.

Ending the update today will be some information in Qumma Airways:

Kudos to the QEC for its amazing foresight! Expanding the airline fleet and increasing passenger traffic by 365 percent in a single year is a formidable challenge, but one I am certain will pay handsome dividends. Any chance of adding a limited route to The Gambia? ;)

Later...
Joan

A nice, short but sweet update there Nedalezz.

Qumma is certainly expanding in every direction and WestJet, national carrier of West End, is pleased to announce that the weekly flight from Great Portland to Berber Dawa is proving to be more and more popular.  There are strong rumours that when the new Carnaby International Airport is opened in West End frequency may be increased to two per week.

I also hear that there are charter airlines waiting to bring the fans from Qumma to West End if the team enters the Devo '08 tournament in West End & Balnavia.

Looking forward to more.

Paul

Congratulations, nedalezz!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg501.imageshack.us%2Fimg501%2F1850%2Fqummall4.png&hash=57ca5695cf970d00f5fc4d9cdcd062fec57a386f)

- The Staff

A330s? Looking to go international eh? Will the airport be expanded with the expansion of the airlines?

nedalezz great last few updates here and also congrats on your second trip to OSITM!!!

Hey nedalezz, it's great to see you here for a second "tour of duty." I've been a shamelessly-outspoken fan of Qumma from the first day I saw the tiny village of Fursan clinging to that colorful African coastline. And I still love the completely unique style of your work.

The month of June is filled with promise...
Joan

Congratulations, nedalezz, a very well deserved move the OSITM.
I always enjoy an update from you.

&apls

Robin  :thumbsup:

Nice airway-update there! And also congrats on your second award!!! &apls

Not to be outdone by the Qumma Development Group (QDG) recent activities, the Neumann Group, a privately owned real estate developer from the Liberty Islands, have constructed Qumma's very first shopping mall: The CocoWalk.

With state of the art underground parking facilities, the planning and blueprint of the CocoWalk was impeccable. Situated on the eastern outskirts of town, it expected that the shopping mall will fuel development, which has been primarily exclusive to the coastline, around the area, especially to the business oriented individuals due to its proximity to the business district.

Costing nearly $50 million, this is the Neumann Group's biggest investment in Qumma by a wide margin, but the returns are predicted to be staggering. Renting out shop space for $250 per year for each sq. meter, and with 120,000 sq. meters of rental space, that's $30 million in rental income per year for the group. Ofcourse, this does not include maintenance expenses and such, but even after taking those away, the Neumann Group should see a full return on their investment, at worst, in 3 years.

With tourism industry in Qumma growing at a sizable rate, the tax-free shopping will certainly be a hit to all those who make their way to the capital.

Wow your update is magnifical &apls
And félicitation for OSITM &apls &apls
And your city is very réalistic very good  :thumbsup:

Well, the CocoWalk looks fantastic, nedalezz! Very creative use of a BAT that I've never been able to make fit in anywhere! Your OSITM time is off to a great start, my friend! I'll be looking forward to seeing how this month works out!

Dustin

Looking great, quite a contrast to the desert environment around it. Perhaps Fursan should construct some artificial lakes, ponds, or canals a bit inland to bring some of that ocean water smell into these outskirts  :thumbsup:

A futuristic and exciting mall there Nedalezz.  It kind of sums up Qumma's rapid growth - an excellent choice.

One of West End's pre-eminent fashion chains, Runwell & Upton, are making enquiries about taking a medium sized store in the mall.  With the increasing numbers of West Enders in Fursan, they feel there is a ready market for their goods in a tax-free environment.

The Cocowalk is a wonderful addition to Qumma's economy as well as the city's profile. Of course, the night shot is stunning, but yours always are!

Just wondering how you came about the name? Anyway, I see you're off to another running start, so I'm really looking forward to seeing a lot of new development this month!

Later...
Joan

This is a fine addition to the commercial scene.  :thumbsup:

I love the no development shot, under construction shot and the completed shot very much. Cocowalk is magnificent! I can't wait to see more modern developments start in Qumma.

Futhermore, Congratulations on your deserved OSITM again.

Alex :thumbsup:

Really nice work there on that building and area! Nice day and night shots of it...

Nice developements.

Ive followed this MD since the start and from its humble beginings this city has turned into an amazing place. The last few updates have been awesome and I cant wait to see more

Will

Very good coco walk update indeed here Nedalezz!!!

You have had some realy great updates again my friend. I enjpoyed reading the excellent story a few pages back, and also am glad to see Qumma Airways expanding and planning to international. If you also plan to go international, I will reserve a nice gate for you at Nieuw Amsterdam Peter Stuyvesant International airport !

Firstly, I want to apologize for the lack of updates. I had planned to do continuous updates throughout the month, but that hasnt panned out the way it was expected.

Truth is, im going through a rough period on a personal level, relationship wise, and its really taken a heavy toll on me. I hope all of you can understand, and I thank everyone in advance.

No problem my friend, I understand.. ;)

Hey Nedalezz,

I'm sorry to hear RL is not being kind to you at the moment.  You take care and I hope all works out well.  And remember that your friends and supporters here at SC4D will be waiting patiently when you are ready to come back.

All the best,

Paul

nedalezz, you - we - are just short of celebrating Qumma's first anniversary on August 12. You've worked long and hard to bring this unique region to the point where it is now, and I have faith in your determination to carry it through to even greater heights.

One thing that has set Qumma apart from the crowd is your patience and demand for perfection, no matter how long it takes. So I'll be waiting patiently, along with many others it seems, for your next update. No matter how long it takes.

Best wishes for success and happiness in all that you do...
Joan 

this is such a nice MD! ive seen the first few updates before but from page 6 to this, its very nice!

keep it up!

No problem Nedalezz, we understand! Every of us has difficult moments sometimes, I hope you will manage your RL situation as good as possible for everybody :thumbsup:

I wish you good luck in all your activities! And don't worry about SC4, we will wait patiently till you will have free time and wll be able to enjoy the game and our company :)

Adam

Edit: I like Coco Walk very much!  &apls