DSS Facebook Page Receives Overwhelming Response

Information about Dubai Summer Surprises events, promotions, raffle draws, and a host of other attractions are now available on an interactive website and a Facebook page created to receive feedback, enquiries, and suggestions from the thousands of DSS fans and first time DSS visitors.

www.mydsf.ae is a fully dedicated website that provides detailed information on Dubai Summer Surprises events, the latest attractions, and promotions that will enable shoppers to bag the best bargains during the summer extravaganza.

Khulood Al Thani, Marketing Director of DSF Office said, “www.mydsf.ae is the first point of contact for any DSS visitor and this year, we have ensured that information is categorized in a manner where users will find it extremely easy to navigate through the page. We’ve gone a step further this DSS with a Facebook page as well where DSS fans can communicate with us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

For the first time, visitors to the website can utilize several search options to know more about DSS attractions. The first option involves search tags such as watch, listen, relax, taste, and play. The second option allows users to search with tags of woman, man, family, or children. Users can also search events by date or by simply entering part or whole of the event name. Users can also register on the site to receive regular updates on the latest DSS happenings. 2500 people have registered since DSS began on June 11.

The DSF Office has also taken advantage of popular networking sites such as Facebook to reach out to a wider audience and enable DSS fans to give feedback, enquire about events, and also take part in exciting competitions to win prizes every week.

“The element of winning has taken a new perspective this DSS through competitions on our Facebook page and these competitions have been well received by members of the page,” added Khulood.

In just two weeks after being on Facebook, the DSS page has already attracted over a thousand fans and the number is growing as more people get to know about the page. Members can post messages and queries on the Wall and all enquiries are answered in the shortest time possible. Fans can also take part in the weekly competitions with exciting questions and a different prize giveaway every week.

Mall Of The Emirates Records Sales Of AED 7.7 Billion In 2008 And Expects Significant Footfall During DSS 2009

Shopping promotions and exciting events at the Mall of the Emirates during Dubai Summer Surprises have been instrumental in attracting visitors to the mall during summer, and this has reflected positively on retail sales and the overall visitor turnout, according to Fuad Mansour Sharaf, Vice President of Mall of the Emirates.

Mall of the Emirates, the world’s first shopping resort is a member of the Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) Group – a key sponsor of DSS 2009.

Sharaf noted that Mall of the Emirates had logged tremendous growth rates since its launch in 2006. ’In 2008, we achieved AED 7.7 billion worth of sales, an indication substantial evidence of the pioneering retail position now boasted by the Mall.”

He also outlined the mall’s plans for DSS and stressed that DSS was key to the growth of retail business during the summer. “Most of the summer activities in the emirate are organized in malls during the summer and therefore, shopping malls are more than keen to have a strong presence in the summer extravaganza. For us at MAF, the event is of a paramount importance to our business and we are ensuring to make the best use of it.”

Mall of the Emirates was the venue for the opening ceremony of DSS 2009 and witnessed a massive response with over 100,000 mall-goers on the day. Fuad said that the selection of the mall for an important event such as the opening was enough indication of the confidence that DSS officials had in the mall’s ability to host such an event.

Elaborating on the promotions being organized this DSS at the Mall, Fuad said, “This year, Mall of the Emirates and Deira City Centre are coming together for the first time ever in a joint promotion to give visitors the chance to win prizes worth AED 2 million this summer. The massive campaign sees both malls give two winners AED 100,000 each every week with the amount doubling up in the last draw by the end of DSS. The joint initiative means shoppers can now spend the AED 300 needed to enter the draw at any of the 800 stores in the two malls.”

While stressing that the AED 7.7 billion sales figure for 2008 was an achievement by itself, Fuad said “In DSS 2009, we expect the sales to be almost the same of 2008, a year which witnessed a 30 per cent increase in sales over the previous year 2007. A huge footfall of 6 million visitors came to the Mall during the DSS 2008 and we expect the same number during this edition.”

He also threw light on the nationalities of the visitors at the mall. “Usually tourists coming from the GCC countries to Dubai during the DSS are the largest in number in comparison with other nationalities. During the first days of this edition we’ve noticed that a large chunk of those visiting the Mall are locals and expatriates living in the country along with a reasonable number of GCC nationals and Europeans. We expect an increase in the footfall over the coming period, especially among those coming from Saudi Arabia.”

In an indication that Mall of the Emirates was poised for an expansion, Fuad said that they were embarking on an ambitious expansion project under which up to 40 new stores offering international assortments of global brands would be ready by the fourth quarter of 2010. This move, he added, would bring the number of operating stores at the Mall to 511, and effectively provide 233,000 square metres of Gross Leasable Area for retailers and other service providers.

On a closing note, Fuad said that new malls would only strengthen Dubai’s retail sector and add to Dubai’s position as a top-notch global shopping destination. Competition, he added, would play a vital role in protecting consumer interest and vitalizing the country’s economy.

DSS Discounts And Entertainment Keep Shoppers Busy At BurJuman

During the first weekend of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2009, shoppers at BurJuman expressed their delight at the various programmes and discounted promotions in the shopping mall.Dubai residents Alex Milkovski, Marina Bubalo and Galonjic Dejan were thrilled to show off their shopping bags. These Serbian nationals felt that DSS had lots of offerings this year. Alex said, “We are so excited to go to the mall and check out the DSS programmes. We were surprised to know that we can also participate at raffle draws by just shopping.” Marina added, “We are waiting for more promotions in the coming weeks.”Mukesh Chheda, from India, was also motivated to roam around the shopping mall. He said, “It’s my first DSS and I heard a lot of good things on how great the promotions are. Now that I am here at BurJuman, I can say that whatever I heard was so true. DSS really makes shopping very affordable. That’s what we need during these times.”On the other hand, wife and mother Gopika Gurdasani was roaming around the mall with her kids. Although she wasn’t in for shopping, she was more than happy about DSS. Gopika told, “I’m thankful that DSS has wonderful events for children. We are staying in Dubai this summer, and we need these types of activities for our kids. The DSS activities are enjoyable and educational, and really great for the children.”Visiting tourists from Kuwait, Arwa and Umme Khan, believed that DSS made their trip to Dubai more memorable. Arwa said, “The discounts are wonderful. I could buy a lot of stuff to take back home.” Umme added , “We love the promotions. It’s just amazing.”BurJuman, a key sponsor of DSS this year, hosts numerous luxury brand outlets that are offering massive discounts during the summer extravaganza.

Acrobatic Juggling Show Lights Up DSS Shopping Experience

As part of the Dubai Summer Surprise (DSS) festivities for this year, various shows featuring international performers are being staged in different shopping malls in the city.The Acrobatic Juggling Show is one among the numerous shows that have attracted crowds since the opening of the summer extravaganza. The show involves two parts: the Acrobatic Juggler, an extra-ordinary display of juggling talent, and the Rollers Baroque Show, that features special choreography and dancing. On the other hand, the performers also roam the mall to parade and build up the excitement amongst the shoppers. They mostly play around with shoppers and even give them photo opportunities. The jugglers wear the classic Baroque-like costume to reflect the era.The members of the show are all from Poland and have been performing around the world. The group will perform on June 23rd and 24th at Deira City Centre at 4pm, 6pm, and 7:45pm. Arabian Centre will host the group on June 25th and 26th at 5pm, 6:30pm, and 8pm.

DSF Office And Dubai Cares Announce Education Tie-Up During Dubai Summer Surprises 2009

The Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Cares announced the launch of several education initiatives for children during Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2009, the region’s most awaited summer extravaganza. Providing children with a fun learning environment, DSS will feature child-friendly, education events supported by Dubai Cares, considered the largest charitable establishment dedicated to primary education globally.

Dubai Cares is supporting Modhesh World with its “Story Telling” zone, which encourages children to read by bringing stories to life through a storyteller’s live narration. Children will have the opportunity to take part in individual reading sessions, where they will have access to a wide array of books.

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Chairperson of Dubai Cares, said, “Dubai Cares is delighted to be the Education Partner of Dubai Summer Surprises, now in its 12th year. We welcome the occasion to work with DSS, with which we share a commitment of providing children throughout the UAE opportunities to acquire knowledge in an exciting and entertaining environment.”

Dubai Cares will also participate in World of Stories – a DSS Signature Event that goes on till June 23 at Mercato. The event is a magical journey through the “Alice in Wonderland” universe, bringing to life fairytale characters including Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit.

Lasting 35 minutes, the show will be presented three times daily including at 5:00 p.m., 6:35 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.. There will also be other activities for children to participate in at including the Arts and Crafts Corner, the Quranic Exhibition and the enchanted forest library.

Laila Suhail, CEO of DSF Office, said, “The DSF Office works in cooperation with government departments to support initiatives that benefit communities. The presence of Dubai Cares as Education Partner will certainly enrich the events of DSS and deliver the message to a wider audience of residents and visitors from around the world. This partnership will definitely bring the objectives of DSS and Dubai Cares to the forefront and reveal what our aims are.”

Dubai Cares works with globally recognized aid and development agencies and private corporations to implement primary education programs in beneficiary developing countries that help improve a child’s access to quality primary education. With its development programs that address the full value chain of primary education, Dubai Cares is helping children and their communities escape the trap of poverty and to become active contributors to sustainable development. The UAE-based establishment also mobilizes local communities in the UAE through fundraising and volunteer initiatives that support children’s primary education worldwide.

Cinema Goers To Have A Surprising CineStar Experience This DSS

CineStar Cinemas has announced an exclusive summer promotion for movie buffs during the twelfth edition of Dubai Summer Surprises. Called the ‘Surprisingly Golden Experience’, the promotion offers spa vouchers, movie ticket upgrade to Gold Class, and a grand prize where a total of four winners will be chosen for spa packages at Park Hyatt and at the Atlantis.

Khulood Al Thani, Marketing Director of DSF Office said, “We are delighted to collaborate with CineStar Cinemas on this exciting promotion aptly named the ‘Surprisingly Golden Experience’. Entertainment has been an integral and a core element of every DSS edition since 1998, and CineStar’s promotions go along the DSS theme of ‘Surprising Dubai’ where visitors and residents will be equally amazed by what the summer extravaganza will offer this year.”

“Further, our collaboration with private sector entities and brands such as CineStar reflect our cooperation with the private sector in offering value-for-money packages for visitors,” she added.

When booking Gold Class tickets online on www.cinestarcinemas.com for weekday shows, movie enthusiasts can enter into a daily draw to win a spa package courtesy of DSS. Three such prizes will be given away every week until the end of the summer extravaganza.

Additionally, ten cinema goers will be surprised everyday with a free upgrade to the VIP or Gold Class cinemas when purchasing a normal movie ticket. The ‘lucky seats’ will have envelopes with free upgrades and free entry tickets to Modhesh World – the biggest attraction during DSS 2009. The offer is made available on weekdays for movies before 6pm.

CineStar’s General Manager, Cameron Mitchell noted that this was the second time that CineStar had collaborated with DSS, after their extremely successful Treasure Hunt campaign in 2007. Cameron added that CineStar was delighted to be working with the DSS team on yet another new and innovative initiative for surprising guests with upgrade’s to CineStar’s premium cinemas. The Mall Of The Emirate’s Gold Class cinema allows guests to watch the latest blockbuster in reclining leather arm chairs, whilst being served from a café style menu, and is the perfect complement to the long list of exciting initiatives that DSS had again developed this year.

Cameron added, “The DSS team continue to excite both residents and visitors to Dubai with their promotions each year, and 2009 will set a new benchmark for creativity and excitement. CineStar is delighted with their strong association with DSS, and looks forward to collaborating with the team for many years to come.”

The highlight of the promotion or the Grand Prize will give away three winners a spa package each at the Park Hyatt with one lucky winner receiving an exclusive spa package in The Atlantis. Winners will be selected from business card drop-offs within Gold Class during the DSS period.

Modhesh Fun City becomes Modhesh World as DSS ’09 prepares to present its biggest attraction

The Dubai Shopping Festival Office (DSFO) is preparing to unveil the most awaited attraction this summer during DSS as Modhesh Fun City celebrates a decade of non-stop entertainment and transforms into a bigger and better destination – Modhesh World. The Office, creators of the Modhesh brand and organizers of Dubai Summer Surprises, is aiming to broaden its target audience to include children, teenagers, and adults.Celebrating its tenth year this DSS, what was formerly known as Modhesh Fun City has undergone a massive conversion, and will now be officially called Modhesh World. The announcement comes with only days left for the twelfth edition of DSS to begin on June 11. The 65-day summer extravaganza will go on till August 14.Envisioned to raise the standard of indoor entertainment to the next level, Modhesh World aims at providing an exhilarating experience with exciting new concepts, more educational interactive exhibits, and spectacular events featuring regional and international shows. "After 9 very successful years as a leading edutainment destination in the region, and more than 4 million visitors, it was time for us to take Modhesh Fun City to the next level. This decision comes as a natural result of the amazing evolution of Modhesh Character as a brand," Laila Suhail, CEO DSF Office said."With his ever growing base of fans from around the region, and more than 1000 products of this popular Character in the regional markets around the year, it was only logical to take the necessary steps to elevate the entertainment experience that we offer every year for his fans.""Modhesh World is bigger in concept and components, it includes Modhesh Friends Club, Modhesh school Visits, Modhesh CSR program and Modhesh GCC tour. In terms of the attractions on the venue, we have provided the latest and most advanced entertainment concepts in the world today. Add that to the hygienic, safe and secure environment at Modhesh World and you have the best destination for families this summer," Suhail added.Bigger in concept
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. A zoning system makes the whole trip to the largest indoor theme park in the region an even more customer-friendly experience. Each zone offers a variety of interactive entertainment and educational activities that complement each other.In an effort to reach out to more children and their families, Modhesh World has reduced entry fees this year for the children’s tickets to only AED 15.New Zones and Activities
Ms Suhail also proudly noted that the new Modhesh World has adopted an exciting new look and a vibrant new spirit that visitors experience right from the magnificent entrance, and through to the amazing features of the East, West and Central Zones."We have incorporated some of the best practices in renowned theme parks all over the world, and infused a number of our own innovations. When guests come to Modhesh World and when they leave, they are guaranteed to have a smile on their faces," she added.Internationally-acclaimed entertainment shows, a Bounce and Adventure Park, a Modhesh Trampoline bed, the Magic Planet section with 150 new games, the Fun Fair, meet and greet sessions with Modhesh, and numerous other zones are just some of the attractions awaiting visitors this year.Another attraction, the Mystical Maze, is the biggest set up of its kind in the region and provides children a unique thrill through a challenging course. In addition to these activities Modhesh World will also play host to the Modhesh Friends’ Club from 14th June – 13th August 2009. Children will be exposed to different activities and experiences including martial arts, field trips, cooking, dancing, reading, and understanding Quran and Hadith (only for Muslims) in addition to social service activities. Modhesh World will likewise host Birthday Mondays where kids can celebrate their birthdays with Modhesh and their family and friends at very reasonable prices. Special needs children will be given the opportunity to celebrate their birthdays at no cost.
 
Modhesh World doors open at 10.00 am – 10 pm on weekdays and from 10 am – 12 pm weekends, 3 pm – 12 pm on Fridays. Tickets to the venue are priced at AED 10 for adults and AED 15 for kids with numerous free games and rides. 

Emirates Launches Unbeatable Family Friendly Holiday Offer in Time for Dubai Summer Surprises

Coinciding with their participation in Dubai Summer Surprises as a key sponsor for the twelfth edition of the summer extravaganza this year, Emirates has recently launched the ‘Kids Go Free’ promotion offering families from across the globe an incredible saving when they visit Dubai with Emirates. The promotion will run up to 20th September, 2009. The promotion, which has been developed to further attract international visitors to Dubai across DSS, will see one child under the age of 16 years fly free and up to a maximum of two children stay, eat and play in Dubai for free when travelling with two paying adults; once again proving that Dubai is the ultimate family friendly holiday destination.
 
Collaborating with some of the emirate’s most impressive attractions this one-of-a-kind offer will provide families with the opportunity to take an exciting break, in a unique destination, without breaking the bank.
 
“Dubai Summer Surprises is an important event in Dubai’s calendar. Each year the festival attracts thousands of international visitors into Dubai to shop, explore and be entertained in the emirate. This year, Emirates has launched an innovative and competitive promotion called Kids Go Free, that we believe will further push travel to Dubai, said Ahmed Khoory, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Iran Emirates.
 
“The Kids Go Free offer allows families from across the globe to take a well deserved break, in an exciting destination, without the financial strain an international holiday can bring. Knowing that their child will travel, stay, eat and play for free takes a huge degree of financial pressure off the family budget. We hope that this enticing offer from Emirates will enable more families to experience Dubai Summer Surprises and have their annual holiday in this exciting destination.”
 
The Kids Go Free promotion is applicable for passengers travelling with Emirates to Dubai from select destinations around the world and includes Meet and Assist at Dubai International Airport.
 
A total of 33 hotels in Dubai are participating in the promotion with a hotel to suit every family’s budget and preference, from a six star luxury hotel to serviced apartments. In addition to free flights, accommodation and meals children will also have free entry to a wide range of Dubai’s most interesting children’s attractions, ensuring an action packed family vacation. Some of these exciting and complimentary activities include;
 
• Wild Wadi Water Park, including a medium meal
• The Lost Chambers at Atlantis The Palm Dubai
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in Dubai Mall
• Dubai Ice Rink in Dubai Mall
• Sega Republic Indoor Theme Park in Dubai Mall (opening June 2009)
• Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates
• Bowling at Magic Planet in the Mall of the Emirates
• Round of golf and access to the driving range at The Montgomerie Dubai
 
The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest, will also provide each family with some incredible discounts to be utilised within the mall, helping families save even more money and make good use of the recently announced increase to Emirates’ free baggage allowance.
 
For further details and full terms and conditions please contact your local Emirates office.

Dubai Government Departments stands firmly behind DSS 2009

With just days left for DSS 2009 to begin, Dubai Government departments have come out in complete support of the summer event as the DSS Organising Committee convened at the Dubai Department of Economic Department (DED) on Sunday, May 31, 2009, to discuss and review final plans for the twelfth edition that will be held for 65 days from June 11 to August 14 this year.The meeting was presided over by Ibrahim Saleh, Coordinator General of DSF Office, in addition to a host of government dignitaries and officials who make up the Committee. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority is the latest inclusion in the Committee.The gathering was briefed on the final preparations of this year’s summer extravaganza in addition to a review of plans to ensure the smooth functioning of the event. Ibrahim Saleh began by thanking the government representatives on their unhindered support for DSS and their continued contribution to promote Dubai as a leading global city and an unparalleled summer destination."The cooperation between the various government departments is an essential element of every successful DSS edition and the Organising Committee plays an integral role in ensuring efficient operational levels in all aspects of the festival. This coordination is even more significant this year given the economic challenges we face and our efforts to promote Dubai as a leading global summer destination will be doubled," said Ibrahim Saleh. He also elaborated on some of the key attractions that will be organised during DSS 2009.Knowledge and Human Development Authority
Taha Al Hamri from KHDA said, "We are pleased to be part of DSS 2009 and as a new entrant to the DSS Organising Committee, the KHDA has planned a series of activities aimed at developing the educational abilities of children. Additionally, on a cultural level, children from various schools will participate in shows that will be held in shopping malls throughout this DSS."Dubai Police
Hareb Mohammed Saeed Al Shamsi, from Dubai Police said, "The Dubai Police is committed in maintaining the highest levels of security for the general public and visitors to Dubai and accordingly we will have increased patrols during DSS and police posts at Modhesh World. We are also conducting workshops for tourists to learn more about the services Dubai Police offers."Dubai e-government
Khalil Sagar, from Dubai eGovernment said that the department’s participation in DSS would be directly aligned to the strategy adopted by Dubai eGovernment to spread public awareness on the importance of IT literacy and to enable highly IT educated end users such as the youth to benefit from such initiatives. "Besides our participation in the Modhesh Friends Forum that attracted more than 50,000 participants last year, Dubai eGovernment will provide specific data on DSS events on a daily basis through an SMS service. All that DSS visitors need to do is send the text DSSE to the number 4488 to receive event information in English. For daily events schedule, users can send DSSE followed by the date and month to 4488," said Khalil. Representatives of the following government departments were present in the meeting: Dubai Municipality and Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD), Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Dubai Police General Headquarters, Department of Civil Defence, Dubai eGovernment, Knowledge and Human Development Authority, Unified Ambulance Centre, Department of Health & Medical Services, Dubai Educational Zone, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Dubai Cultural Council, Dubai Ports and Customs, Dubai Media City, Watani National Program, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and the Department of Economic Development.

Dubai Summer Surprises 2009 Announces Its Signature Events

Dubai Summer Surprises has announced its Signature Events as the summer extravaganza prepares to present the twelfth edition this year from June 11 to August 14. Spanning 65 days, DSS 2009 will be held under the slogan ‘Surprising Dubai’.

Signature Events are a series of theme-based activities and a major attraction during the summer, all conceptualized at the Dubai Shopping festival Office as original ideas nad that have proved to be popular.

DSS 2009 will have nine Signature Events this year including the Sheila and Abaya Fashion, World of Stories, Middle East Junior Chef of the Year 2009, Min Bladi Al Emarat, Arts Oasis, Kids Fashion Week, Kids Olympic Games, The Collectors, and the Photography Exhibition. As the core entertainment segment of every DSS edition, Signature Events encapsulate the high level of entertainment offered to DSS visitors.

Yousif Mubarak, Chief Operations Officer of DSF Office said, “As the core of entertainment activities during DSS, Signature Events have set the benchmark for quality family entertainment over the years and have the distinction of having been entirely conceptualized from idea to production by the DSF Office.”

“As theme-based activities, these events cater to every visitor segment and by organizing them in shopping malls, DSS aims to provide a shopping experience that is enhanced with world-class entertainment. Furthermore, Signature Events have been spaced across 65 days in a way that visitors and residents in Dubai can watch at least one Signature Event at any given time,” he added.

• World of Stories: (12 June – 23 June)
Mercato (5pm to 10pm)
Organized to recreate the fantasy world of fairytales and fables for children, World of Stories brings actors to stage to enact celebrated tales like ‘Cindrella’ and ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. DSS 2009 brings Alice from ‘Alice in Wonderland’, in a show where she meets other popular characters such as Fairy Godmother, Mary Poppins, Aladdin and Robin Hood. In addition to the show, an arts and craft zone themed on the ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’ and a Mirror Maze await children.

• Kids Fashion Week: (16 Jul – 22 Jul)
Dubai Mall (5pm to 10pm)
A glitzy fashion show by all means, the DSS Kids Fashion Week features some of the latest trends in kids fashion from across the region and the world and has staged internationally renowned labels such as Kenzo Kids, Moschino, Benetton, Sisley, Diesel Kids and Okaidi. All collections are modeled on the ramp by members of the Modhesh Friends Club.

• Kids Olympics Games: (23 July – 29 July)
Dubai Marina Mall (4pm to 9:30pm)
A competitive but fun-filled series of sport activities for children, Kids Olympics brings out the competition in children and their parents. A must-watch event for all families, the 2008 edition of Kids Olympics featured two arenas to accommodate competitions for children of all ages. Competitions include Baby Crawling, Tricycle Race, Baby Marathon, and Remote Control Car race, to name a few. In DSS 2008, the tricycle race was sponsored by CX Ferrari Bicycles.

• The Collectors: (27 July – 7 August)
Wafi
An exhibition of various artifacts and collectibles, visitors can find seasoned regional and local collectors and prodigies with their valuable treasures that have found place in the Guinness Book of World Records. The collectibles displayed include cars, stamps, coins, photographs, car licence plates etc. In 2008, the world’s largest collections of snow globes, licence plates, rosary beads, and bookmarks were exhibited.

• Min Bladi Al Emarat: (1 July – 10 July)
Dubai Marina Mall (5pm to 10pm)
A traditional event that focuses on Emirati heritage activities, Min Bladi has been a major crowd puller during DSS. The main attraction of Min Bladi is the competitions that are held to pick the best displays of local food and culture. The event is an authentic presentation of culture in the UAE. Contests include the Popular Cuisine contest, the Best Poem, Emarati Coffee contest, the Best Dairy Product, and the Popular Dress Competition. The event this year will also feature a heritage village, a falcon gallery, a heritage photo exhibition, a traditional medicine counter, and a diyafah tent where visitors will be served coffee and tea.

• Arts Oasis: (9 July – 15 July)
Wafi
A gathering of multi-national resident artists, Arts Oasis is an opportunity for all to meet some highly regarded and well-known artists and their works including paintings, prints, installations, sculptures, and other new media art. Arts Oasis 2008 featured works themed on various cultures and the 2009 Arts Oasis will lay emphasis on the ‘Go-Green’ theme to highlight effects of global warming.

• Sheila and Abaya Fashion: (27 June – 30 June)
BurJuman (From 6pm)
A gathering of talented local and regional Sheila and Abaya designers, the Sheila and Abaya Fashion is among the most glamorous shows in GCC for local attire. Amateur and professional designers bring on their best creations in one of the most highly regarded events for traditional fashion. This year, a total of 16 designers are expected to participate in the event featuring both professional and amateur designers.

• Photography Exhibition: (6 August – 13 August)
Deira City Centre
An opportunity for talented photographers to display their creativity, the exhibition attracts some of the best talents in the country. In 2009, the Photography Exhibition will be open to all talented photographers whose entries will be judged by an eminent jury for the DSS 2009 Photography Award. The theme for 2009 is Emarati Cultural Heritage. Another highlight of this event is the participation by National Geographic.

• Middle East Junior Chef of the Year 2009: (8 July – 14 July)
Times Square Center
Among the most prestigious awards in the Middle East in the hotel industry, the Junior Chef Awards is a recognition of culinary talent across the region. The jury for the Awards include Master Chefs from around the world. During the event, multi-national chefs battle it out to showcase their finest preparations in numerous categories. A spectacular culinary display lasting seven days, the Awards attract around 600 chefs from all over the GCC every year.