Qumma - From Desert to Rose (June 3rd - The CocoWalk)

[Pat]

nedalezz wow fantastic ariel!!!! I cant wait for the next update...

[Simpson]

So beautiful...

[bokrif]

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.)

[Ennedi]

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! 

[sebes]

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 

[paroch]

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

[panthersimcity4]

Wow, Fursan is big! I wish I could visit in real life. 

[nedalezz]

UPDATE TWENTY-NINE
12 YEARS IN: A GUIDE TO QUMMA

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!

QUMMA: AN OVERVIEW AND HISTORY

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.

One of many watering holes found in the Qumman wilderness.


Heavy diamond and gold deposits can be found in the rocky south-eastern region known as Ras-Il-Abyad.


The village of Naba'a, next to a large oasis.

QUMMA: CURRENT ISSUES AND FUTURE PLANS

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.

A shanty town found in Khaymeh, Qumma's second largest city.

FURSAN: CAPITAL AND LARGEST CITY

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.

Fursan at the beginning of the 5th Year.


Fursan at the beginning of the 12th Year.


A typical neighborhood in Fursan.

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.

An aerial shot of Fursan's developing downtown area.


The downtown area at night.

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.

The Fursan Port.


Berber Dawa International Airport.

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.

The Dawa Royal Park and Presidential Lane.


The Diplomatic Quarter with the Qumma Royal Palace Hotel.


The St. Patrick Cathedral.

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.

The University of Liberty Islands in Qumma.


The ULIQ Hospital.

KHAYMEH: OIL CENTER OF QUMMA

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.

Central Khaymeh, with Al-Iman Mosque and its Gardens.


The newly developing middle-high class neighborhood east of central Khaymeh.


Another shot of the neighborhood, called the Nawafa neighborhood.

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.

The Khaymeh Oil Refinery.

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.

The Al-Iman Mosque and the Gardens across from it on Berber Dawa Avenue.

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.

The new Khaymeh Medical Hospital.

[thundercrack83]

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

[rooker1]

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 

[Jmouse]

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

[Ennedi]

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 
And of course, excellent aerial views. It is a great pleasure to visit Qumma!

Adam

[bat]

A really really great new update! Wonderful information and pictures of Qumma!!

[paroch]

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

[rusummer1]

Awesome, love the density

[Pat]

nedalezz simply wonderful and I dare to repeat this one but heck you deserve this again!!!!!!



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.........

[nedalezz]

REPLIES:

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.

[nedalezz]

UPDATE THIRTY
FURSAN HITS 150,000

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.

[paroch]

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

[Ennedi]

As always I love your panoramic views, both day and night ones 
Wow, the new stadium - what about next championships this year?  A large new stadium is planned in Shosaloza too...