At the gathering Sunday, the coalition formed seven committees to tend to pressing matters, including emergency situations, refugees, the wounded, communication services for rebels, border crossings and the crisis in Ras al-Ain.

CNN: Syrian opposition cannot agree on a new prime minister

He watches "Al-Hoor al-Ain" while he works.

NPR: Arab TV Show Dramatizes Lives of Suicide Bombers

Al-Ain, UAE (CNN) -- A British boy and his father are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, traveling across the Middle East and Europe by land and sea after 11-year-old Joe Thompson suddenly developed a paralyzing fear of flying.

CNN: Pirates, wars: Hurdles for flight phobia boy

Thompson, who had previously always loved flying, says he cannot explain what came over him on July 1 at Abu Dhabi airport - an hour by car from his home in Al-Ain -- as his family prepared to relocate to the UK from the United Arab Emirates.

CNN: Pirates, wars: Hurdles for flight phobia boy

The closest spring to town is Ain al-Arais, a cool, inviting waterhole with a grotto-like bottom, just five minutes' walk from the central market.

BBC: Siwa: An Egyptian oasis

The reason for Al Ain's oasis-like feel is its natural water supply.

BBC: Al Ain: The desert��s oasis

Former trainer of Senegal, Bruno Metsu - who recently won the UAE league title with Al Ain and Turkish coach Mushin Ertugal are being considered as viable alternatives if they are unable to reach a deal with Tigana.

BBC: Egypt beckons for Tigana