Arabian Center Becomes A Magical Land For Kids This DSS

Arabian Center, the latest hotspot for shopping, leisure and entertainment in Dubai, has fantastic treats and activities lined up for kids during Dubai Summer Surprises 2009. The mall, located on Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai, is hosting numerous activities to keep kids and parents enthralled during every visit as a part of the summer celebrations.

Arabian Center recently hosted exciting performers who presented a variety of acts and fun shows for kids and adults. The acts transported kids into the wilderness with the jungle animal stilt walkers. Depicting the animals of the jungle world, the five performers originally from Italy roved the mall with their tall graceful strides engaging the kids in fun educational activities.

Kids witnessed further excitement at the Arabian Center with mystical characters of the fairytale land. The mall hosted elves and fairytale characters, who cast a spell of magic all around. The fairytale characters came to life and enticed the kids with a comic show, interactive games and lots of gifts were given away.

The Arabian Center will step up to the musical beats of the African Children’s Choir and the Percussion Samba Group on July 23-24, 2009. The mall will also stage the popular Ronald McDonald, the whacky clown character used as the mascot for the McDonalds fast-food restaurant chain on Saturday, July 25, 2009. The Ronald McDonald show promises to be exciting for both children and parents alike with interactive activities, games and magic shows. Fun competitions for kids of all ages with lovely prizes to be won will ensure their enthusiastic involvement along with Ronald’s crazy antics.

Commenting on the activities at the mall, Mr. Mathews Thomas, Marketing Manager, Arabian Center, said: “We have been focusing on combining fun and entertainment with educational activities that will widen up the horizons for kids. There is a rich mixture of activities, great discounts, offers and prizes to be won throughout the summer festival ensuring each visit for the customers is enriching and a fun-filled experience.”

Apart from the fantastic activities, the mall is giving out amazing prizes during DSS 2009. Shoppers spending AED 100/- at any of the outlets in Arabian Center will become eligible to participate in the weekly draw that could win them a Toyota four wheel drive. Customers also stand a chance to win a Land Cruiser VXR in a Mega Draw that will be held at the end of the festival.

Also, by spending AED 200/- at the mall shoppers stand a chance to win AED 500,000/- every week for nine weeks starting June 11, 2009 as part of the Dubai Summer Surprises – Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSS-DSMG) “Surprising Millions” promotion,.

The weekends during the DSS will feature the unique Arabian Souq, which is showcasing rare collection of items ranging from art, craft; traditional Bedouin style jewellery, antique furniture, handmade shielas, oud, Arabic perfumes and more. The ‘Arabian Souq’ is marked by rare and authentic artifacts celebrating the art and culture of the Arab world. With unique antiques and collections, the Souq is full of small surprises for art lovers and collectors.

DSS Brings Another International Stage Show This Summer With ’Bob The Builder – The Sunflower Sailor’ Show In Al Ghurair City

Bob the Builder, the renowned children’s television character, will thrill children in an exciting show titled ‘The Sunflower Sailor’ at Al Ghurair City, a DSS 2009 key sponsor, on Thursday, July 23, 2009. The show is one among the many international children’s stage shows being organised during this edition of Dubai Summer Surprises.

As the building contractor specialising in masonry, Bob will appear with his colleague and business partner Wendy, and Spud, the mischievous scarecrow. The ‘Sunflower Sailor’ is based on a story where Wendy clears her garage and Bob helps her use some of the old materials to build a boat, an idea suggested by Spud. The three then set off on a sailing adventure.

Bob the Builder shows how a positive attitude, problem-solving, teamwork and follow-through are the necessary tools to complete every job and he has become a role model for children to build on. The ‘Sunflower Sailor’ will be a twenty-minute musical show with spectacular stage settings.

Show timings are 6:00pm and 8:00pm (Saturday to Wednesday), 5:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:30pm (Thursday and Friday). There will be no shows on Tuesday.
 

Visitor Numbers From GCC See 36.5% Increase During First Half Of DSS 2009

Dubai Summer Surprises has played a major role in sustaining the position of Dubai as a leading tourism and commerce destination, said His Excellency Major General Mohammed Ahmad Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department.“Despite the current global circumstances, we are confident that Dubai has the tourism potential and the state-of-the-art infrastructure to keep it among the leading cities in the global tourism arena and it is based on this confidence that this year’s Dubai Summer Surprises was launched,” noted HE.The number of GCC passengers coming to Dubai since the start of the DSS 2009 on June 11 increased by 36.5 per cent compared to the same period between April and May 2009, he added, explaining that most of the visitors came from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.“The tourist influx to Dubai during DSS is an indication that the emirate is doing well despite the financial crisis that has gripped most of the world.”The extensive promotion campaigns accompanying DSS and the colossal efforts made by private sector entities such as shopping malls and hotels have played a major role in attracting GCC visitors to Dubai, he added.“Omani nationals are by far the largest in number, followed by Kuwaitis, Saudis, Bahrainis and Qataris; but by the early days of July the number of Saudis has increased to a large extent,” H.E. Al Marri explained, attributing the increase in the number of Saudi visitors to the end of the academic year in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.“DNRD stands firmly behind DSS 2009 as is the case with other government departments in Dubai, offering the best possible services that reflect the true image of Dubai as a year-round leading tourism and commerce destination. This is in line with the directives by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai,” H.E. stated.As part of its commitment to offer value-added services during DSS, DNRD efficiently processes round-the-clock visa transactions for those visiting the country during the summer event besides offering many other facilities and services, including the Distinguished Guest Service offered to frequent business visitors to Dubai and the Tasaheel Service offered to guests arriving at the Dubai International Airport to facilitate passport control procedures.
 

RTA Takes Part In DSS 2009 With A Historical And Heritage Expo

Mr. Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan CEO of RTA’s Licensing Agency and Mr. Yousef Sharaf, Deputy Executive Director of Aswaaq Centers inaugurated "Al Maktoum & Dubai Exhibition" held at the Aswaaq Centers in Al Mizhar Area as part of RTA’s activity in the Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2009. The exhibition will run for two weeks.

Bahrozyan stated that the Exhibition, which is organized by the Licensing Agency under the title "Al Maktoum & Dubai," embodies the history and heritage of the Dubai Emirate since the era of the fifties through to the sixties and until emergence of the UAE Union at beginning of the seventies. The Agency offers rare heritage collections giving the visitors an overview of the Al-Maktoum and the emirate of Dubai in that period of time.

He explained that the collections include books, coins, stamps, medals and old posters of the Al Maktoum and the emirate of Dubai. The exhibition also includes Arabic and foreign books narrating about HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in addition to glass collections decorated with the portraits of Sheikh Rashid. The stamps carry pictures of Sheikh Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The event also includes ancient coins and military medals that were used in the Emirate of Dubai during that time.

For his part, Mr. Nabeel Yousef Al Ali, Director of Control and Inspection at the Licensing Agency said that the Agency is partaking in the exhibition with a history of driving license in Dubai Driving license’s developmental phases, and various forms and designs were showcased. The Agency is also reviewing through the plate numbers the vision that can be adopted after the use of Latin alphabets (A, B, C…) carried by the plate numbers in Dubai.

It is worth mentioning that the exhibition is open to visitors from 9 am to 9 pm.

Al Bustan Centre And Residence Unveils Breathtaking Acrobatics For DSS Shoppers!

Al Bustan Centre and Residence – the deluxe property which offers world-class hospitality services and facilities in the city, has prepared to entertain shoppers with a range of activities along with fascinating discounts as part of the Dubai Summer Surprises 2009 celebrations. Designed to be the top entertainment destination for summer season, the property is hosting a variety of gigs and live performances to captivate audiences right through the nine weeks period of the twelfth edition of DSS starting from June 11 to August 14 2009.

One of the most popular and well received performances at the Al Bustan Centre is the acrobatic Hand Balancing Act by the world famous German gymnast Natalie Reckert. The 20 minutes-long performance involving breathtaking stunts and tricks performed live has got thrilled audiences who keep returning to watch more performances. Once the crowd settles in, Natalie starts with simple yet popular circus tricks and builds up the momentum and the intensity of her acts with more stunning hand balancing acrobatics. With the help of a few tables and stands Natalie displays mesmerizing body movements reminding us of the good old circus days. Progressing into her performance, Natalie exhibits a set of exercises and acrobatics using a long silk cloth tied onto her hands and legs.

Speaking about the event Moussa El Hayek, Chief Operating Officer Al Bustan Centre & Residence, said: “Despite the credit crunch and economic recession, travellers from overseas still consider Dubai as one of the major shopping and entertainment destinations and the Dubai Summer Surprises as an attractive retail extravaganza offering fabulous discounts and offers. To lighten up the mall this DSS and spread the festivities we at Al Bustan Residence have brought in world recognized professionals to turn this summer into a truly memorable one for the entire family.”

Trained in sportsacrobatics and classical dance, Natalie Reckert has been performing since the tender age of five and has studied at the Circus Space in London and. Combining her training with her unique ability and understanding of hand balancing she decided to express the beauty of hand stands and make it her career, amazing audiences across the world.

Her visit to Dubai and performances at the Al Bustan Center has involved months of hard work, dedication and strict regime to ensure the logistics of the event would fall into place like the costumes, music, and incredible theme and tempo of the show. However dangerous and dramatic the acts at the show would appear, Natalie confesses that the stage is safe and secure after the training from professionals and years of balancing practices.

So if you wish to see a live spectacular performance along with attractive shopping promotions and discounts this DSS 2009 visit the Al Bustan Center or call Toll Free: 800-4648 for the show timing.

African Children’s Choir To Bring The Voice Of Africa To Dubai This DSS In Its First Show In The Middle East

The African Children’s Choir, an ambassador for Africa’s neediest, most vulnerable children, will perform in Dubai for the first time in the Middle East this DSS from July 21 to August 3. The Choir shows the world that its members, like the millions of abandoned and traumatized children in Africa, have beauty, dignity and unlimited potential. The first show will be held in Dubai Festival City, a key sponsor of DSS 2009, on July 21 and July 22 at 6pm, 7:30pm, and 9pm.

In 1984, in the midst of Uganda’s civil war, human rights activist Ray Barnett was called on to help the many thousands of orphaned and starving children, abandoned and helpless to feed and protect themselves. Realizing the enormity of the task Ray and his team came up with a unique approach. The only way to make a meaningful difference was to impact the lives of these children, one child at a time.

"Inspired by the singing of one small boy, we formed the first African Children’s Choir to show the world that Africa’s most vulnerable children have beauty, dignity and unlimited ability,” said Ray.

Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer of DSF Office said, “We are delighted to bring the African Children’s Choir to Dubai Summer Surprises as the values that the group espouses are those that Dubai Summer Surprises supports and encourages. This unique choir will not only entertain visitors this DSS but put forth a clear message to audiences.”

To date over seven hundred vulnerable children have been through the Choir program and the funds they have generated have provided the opportunity of education and hope for many thousands like them in some of the most desperate and needy areas of Africa.

Choir Training
Children selected to tour spend approximately five months at the Choir Training Academy in Kampala, Uganda. Here the children learn the songs and dances, attend school, play and attend Sunday School at a local church.

It is at the Choir Training Academy where the real life-changing work of the African Children’s Choir™ can be seen. The children’s personalities and talents emerge like never before as they settle into their new routine with the knowledge that they are loved and cared for.

As they come from some of the most needy families, the African Children’s Choir™ is committed to helping Choir children physically, spiritually, emotionally and academically, giving each child an opportunity to reach their potential. After returning to Africa, the African Children’s Choir™ provides care and education that builds on the unique international exposure the children experienced abroad. The children receive a quality education, leadership training and spiritual ministry at the Music for Life Primary School in Kampala, or at other well-equipped schools in their respective countries.

The African Children’s Choir™ will perform in Arabian Centre on July 23 and 24, at Modhesh World on July 25 and 26, Deira City Centre on July 27 and 28, The Dubai Mall on July 29 and 30, Dubai Marina Mall on July 31 and Aug 1, and Mercato on Aug 2 and Aug 3.

Show timings are 6:00pm / 07:30pm / 09:00pm from Saturdays to Wednesday, and 06:30pm / 08:00pm / 09:30pm on Thursday and Fridays.

Arts Oasis Extended Till July 21 As Wafi Sees Popular Demand For DSS Signature Event

Arts Oasis, the DSS 2009 Signature Event that was supposed to conclude on July 15, will culminate on July 21 owing to popular demand. Over 30 Dubai-based artists are showcasing works of art including paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and even a video. The event has gained prominence this year with the theme ‘Green Vision’ that aims to highlight the importance of environment conservation.

Initiated in the summer of 2006, Arts Oasis has enjoyed overwhelming popularity since its inception and is today regarded as a platform for artists locally and regionally to reach out to a wider audience.

Arts Oasis took on a different perspective this year with around 10 multi-national artists going in for an intensive artist residency programme where participants had the opportunity to explore questions on sustainability through their own media and practices.

The artists were in regular discussions with well-known curators Beth Carruthers and Elizabeth Monoion to come up with works aligned with the Green Vision theme. These works are currently being displayed in Arts Oasis. The works of three artists, Zain Mustafa, Robert Ferry, Haseena Sakhri, were chosen and awarded for their ability to incorporate the ‘Green Vision’ theme successfully.

The presence of multi-national participants aims to add to the diversity of the event with artists from UAE, India, Philippines, UK, US, Ireland, Canada, Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan. Arts Oasis will go on till July 15th at the Eye of Horus in Wafi from 10am to 10pm.

Fun For All The Family At Dubai Marina Mall This DSS

Dubai Marina Mall is showcasing a wide range of activities for all the family during this year’s Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS). Exciting activities include Kids Shows, Kids Olympics and a showcase of Fashion Workshops.

As part of the Dubai Shopping Malls Group raffle a total of AED 5 million is up for grabs during DSS and Dubai Marina Mall is one of the participants in the promotion. To enter the draw, visitors only have to spend AED 200 at any store in the mall.

Mr Ian Ferguson, General Manager, Dubai Marina Mall, said: “Dubai Marina Mall is a relaxed and convenient shopping destination for residents of Dubai Marina and surrounding areas. The mall provides an ideal leisure destination and is the perfect place to unwind and meet friends, while enjoying a relaxed shopping environment.”

He added: “We are delighted to participate in DSS this year and are hosting several events that appeal to all members of the family. This is our first year for DSS and we are honoured that the organisers have chosen Dubai Marina Mall to host some of their signature events, including the Kids Olympics.”

Some of the events at Dubai Marina Mall throughout DSS include a two week kid’s show which will be held in the Dome Atrium; the Kids Olympics, another signature event of DSS, and Fashion Workshops, which will take place in August. As part of the Olympics, children visiting the mall are encouraged to participate in various fun and sometimes challenging activities ranging from baby crawling competitions to remote control car racing. Many prizes will be awarded throughout the Olympics. Another highlight is the Fashion Workshops to be held from August 4 to 8, where a fashion stylist will explain the new haute couture trends and assist visitors to keep in tune with the trends.

The Dubai Marina Mall is a modern shopping and lifestyle destination in the heart of one of Dubai’s most dynamic lifestyle communities, the Dubai Marina. The mall features 160 stores tailored to the lifestyle and entertainment needs of the marina residences. Al fresco waterfront dining, a large Waitrose supermarket and Favourite Things, a children’s edu-tainment concept are already open. Reel Cinemas will open in Dubai Marina Mall later this year.

Emirates Sees Increased Demand For Innovative DSS Promotion

Emirates has seen an increase in demand for its promotion titled ‘Kids go Free’ that was launched to coincide with the beginning of DSS. Ahmed Khoory, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Iran said: "To coincide with the Dubai Summer Surprises, Emirates airline launched ’Kids go Free’, an innovative and exciting special offer, designed to drive incremental business to Dubai during the summer. Valid till 20th September, the ’Kids go Free’ offer lets children under the age of 16 years fly for free, stay for free at participating hotels, dine for free, and play for free at Dubai’s major tourist attractions, when accompanied by two adults. The accompanying adult air fares have also been significantly discounted, driving home the value for money proposition.”

Khoory stressed that the innovative promotion was well received by families not only in the GCC but in Europe and the Indian Subcontinent as well. “Emirates airline has invested significantly in this offer in order to showcase Dubai as a family friendly destination. Summer is traditionally an extremely busy period for Emirates and this year is no exception. The ‘Kids go Free’ packages have been extremely popular with families, in particular those from neighbouring GCC countries and Iran, but also from the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, South Africa and the Indian sub-continent. We are delighted at the customer response to date and expect a further uptake in sales during the final months of the promotion.”

Modhesh World Records Footfall Of 250,000 In First Half Of DSS 2009

Beating all predictions of a downturn in visitor numbers, Modhesh World, the region’s largest edutainment region that celebrates its tenth year in 2009, recorded a footfall of 250,000 in the first half of Dubai Summer Surprises. The figures come in the wake of similar positive numbers revealed by both the retail and hotel sectors in Dubai.

Ahmed Ali, Senior Projects Coordinator at DSF Office and Supervisor of Modhesh World said, “Modhesh World has been the hub of DSS entertainment since its start and the figures revealed for the first half of DSS 2009 is testimony to its popularity as the sought after edutainment venue in the region. The DSF Office endeavours to present a unique DSS edition ever year and these results reflect our efforts in making Modhesh World an unparalleled entertainment destination for children and families.”

“The footfall numbers are also significant for the fact that they come at a time of general skepticism of Dubai’s tourism and retail sectors, and as more figures are revealed from across economic sectors, we are sure that there will be a general consensus that DSS has had a positive impact,” he added.

Now celebrating its 10th year, what was formerly known as Modhesh Fun City is now officially called Modhesh World, a massive transformation that makes the largest indoor edutainment venue in the region an even bigger and better place for fun and excitement for the whole family.

Spread across 37,000 square meters, Modhesh World offers a stunning collection of unique games and fun fare as well as a multitude of activities to cater to every member of the family, making it the ultimate destination to enjoy the best of what Dubai Summer Surprises has to offer.

Modhesh World is divided into three zones – East, West and Central – to make the whole trip to the venue an even more customer-friendly experience. Each zone offers a variety of interactive entertainment and educational activities that complement each other, engaging children and their families on different levels – from combined physical and gaming exercise to mind-teasing challenges, as well as exhilarating rides and world class entertainment to culturally and artistically enriching activities.