In February, Gulf Insurance & Reinsurance Magazine would have been in circulation for one year. After a hugely successful start, and the support of the Bahraini and regional insurance fraternity, we sat down with its editor in chief, Mrs. Rana Abi Nader Bahou, to discuss the future of the magazine and its parent i market media ltd.

1. The first question as you can imagine on readers minds is, what brought about the creation of Gulf Insurance & Reinsurance, and what is its long term mission?

Very interesting and straightforward question. Information today is one of the most critical and important resources in a market place. Gulf Insurance & Reinsurance is the first publication in the Middle East produced by people in insurance for people in insurance or key decision makers who buy insurance for their organizations. Its meant to portray an insiders view, and put forward issues that we believe as insurance people matter the most. We are not here to report statistics, produce research, or to sell advertising.

2. How do you compare Gulf Insurance & Reinsurance with some of the other publications in the market?

The more publications in the market, the wider view for readers. There are some great publications that have been in the market for sometime. We are a Bahraini oriented publication produced in London covering the MENA region. Others are UAE or Asian based. However, every publication helps build a bigger picture. We are also the only regional publication with a substantial London distribution list.

3. Can you share with us the magazines plans for 2010?

Certainly, in 2010 we are upping our circulation to 10,000 copies per issue and will be focusing more on the other markets our group currently operates in such as Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, and other parts. We are also in the process of launching two sister publications with very interesting focuses which we will share in due course.

4. Any hints?

No !

5. Is it true GI&R supplements the cost of advertising into the publication for members of the insurance community? If so what is the reasoning behind this?

Yes it is true. The magazine is a mouth piece and is not for profit to a certain extent for members of the insurance market. We want to encourage the insurance community to comment, contribute, and help coproduce the magazine in various ways. Any advertising revenue generated from the insurance market is reinvested in the magazine itself and its activities.

6. Goodluck with 2010.

Thank you very much.