Why Dubai Tops Every Traveller’s Wish List?

Dubai – the name itself inspires awe and your mind will put you on wanderlust in a millisecond. There are many reasons for Dubai being the favorite destination of travellers across globe. Let us cite 5 reasons why Dubai Tops every traveller’s wish list:

1. Bespoke luxury

The city of Dubai offers plenty of luxury experiences. The 5 star hotels provide private helicopters for their guests. Dubai is shopping lover’s favorite destination. The Dubai Mall has everything you need under one roof. You can enjoy cruising on a private yacht in Dubai. Dubai desert safari includes camel rides, belly dancing, campfire with barbecue etc… that in itself is a one-of-a-kind experience.

2. Safety

Dubai is one of the safest places for women. You can wear whatever clothes you are comfortable with and roam around in the city. The police also plays an important role in ensuring safety to each and everyone. The laws are stricter and crime rates are lower compared to other countries. Road safety is also fairly good in Dubai city.

3. Cleanliness

Dubai beaches are awarded blue flag for cleanliness. The quality of sea water is pretty good and is free of pollutants. Some commercial markets in Dubai have hygiene ambassadors who promote cleanliness in the city by conducting awareness camps. The water and air pollution rate is comparatively low in the city.

4. Multicultural

Dubai is so multicultural that it has people from more than 100 countries. People show mutual respect for one another. All kinds of religious festivals are a big part of Dubai’s culture.

5. Sight-seeing

There are a lot of places to visit in Dubai. Among them Burj Khalifa tops the list. It’s the tallest man-made structure. Dubai museum is in Al-Fahidi Fort. It was built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. Dubai Creek separates the city into two; Deira and Bur Dubai. One of the beautiful mosques in Dubai is the Jumeirah mosque. Dubai aquarium is another top tourist attraction. It is in the Dubai Mall. Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in UAE. It is shopaholics favorite destination; electronic goods, books, clothes or just anything, you name it and you can find it in this mall. The Palm Jumeirah, that looks like a palm tree from above, is the eighth wonder of the world.

Emirates to introduce second daily flight to Brussels

DUBAI, 5th July, 2017 (WAM) — Emirates will introduce an additional daily flight to Brussels, complementing Emirates’ existing schedule and providing a double-daily service to customers from 29th October, 2017.

The new scheduled flight will be added to meet the growing demand for travel on the route. Emirates has carried over half a million passengers between Dubai and the Belgian capital since launching operations on 5th September, 2014 – and the demand continues to grow for both inbound and outbound flights.

As well as providing choice and convenience for both, Belgian customers and inbound visitors, Emirates’ operations over the recent years have made a positive impact on Belgium’s tourism, trade, investment and employment. Keen to build on its already significant economic contribution, Emirates is confident its analysis demonstrates that the high potential of the route more than justifies the addition of a second daily service between Dubai and Brussels, both, to meet existing demand and to stimulate new growth.

Inbound tourism is also expected to receive a significant boost, with the new flight creating an anticipated 50,000 more tourist arrivals and generating over US$110 million of tourist revenues for the Belgium economy annually.

The second daily flight, which offers additional cargo capacity in the belly hold of the wide-body Boeing 777-300ER, will enhance trade links between Brussels and Dubai, transporting pharmaceuticals, perishables such as chocolates and automotive parts from Belgium to the UAE and beyond.

Date for Eid ul Adha in Dubai for 2017

Dubai: It’s never too early to plan for the next long weekend, the soonest one happening will be in September. Ebrahim Al Jarwan, an astronomy expert and general supervisor at Sharjah Planetarium, has already made his calculations, and predicts that this year’s Eid Al Adha will fall on Friday, September 1, 2017.

The Eid ul Adha celebrations will last for three days, giving residents a three-day break from work.

Al Jarwan explained that the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijja 1438 will start on Wednesday, August 23, which means that Arafat Waqfa Day will fall on Thursday, August 31. Arafat Day takes places on the ninth of the month.

In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid Al Adha takes place on the 10th day of the 12th month.
At the end of the Hajj – annnual pilgrimage to Makkah – Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid Al Adha, which is also known as the Festival of Sacrifice.

During the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Ebrahim.
Prophet Ebrahim, the Quran said, had a revelation that Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son to Him, and he informed the son, who told his father to carry out the command of Allah.

It was while carrying out the wish of Allah that a ram was sent down to Prophet Ebrahim as a sacrifice for his son, Esmail. It is that act that Muslims celebrate till date to show submission to Allah.

Dubai Summer Surprises to begin from July

The annual Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) will run from July 1 – August 12 this year, with sales and events set to take place across the emirate.

Now in its 20th edition, the six-week DSS is organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Participating brands will offer discounts of up to 75 per cent while mall-led events including concerts and character shows will also be held in Dubai.

DSS has announced three, special one-off concerts so far including one by Walid Al Shami at Dubai Festival City mall on July 1, one on July 21 by Fouad Abdulwahed and Dalia Mubarak at City Centre Mirdif, and a third by Balqees at Mall of the Emirates on August 4.

All three concerts will start at 8pm and will be free-to-attend.

This year, DSS is also launching its first ever ‘City Pass’, giving people up to 50 per cent discount on 28 attractions across Dubai including Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark, Burj Khalifa, city tour, theme parks and desert safari.

The pass is priced at Dhs449 per person (for a standard three-attraction package) and reaches Dhs940 per person for an unlimited package.

The passes can be bought at the DSS website and at hotel concierge services and are valid from July 1.

Some of the highlights of this year’s DSS include –

Six week sale

Shoppers will be given discounts ranging between 30 to 75 per cent throughout the six-week DSS period at participating retailers.

72 hour sale

As part of DSS, 72 hour-sales will be held from Monday until Wednesday each week during DSS. Brands across sectors including fashion, homeware and toys will offer the discounts.

Details of the deals will only be revealed 24 hours ahead of the sale on the DSS website and its social channels.

Friday surprise

Fashion, beauty and luxury homeware retailers will have offers on exclusive retail products at a specified shopping location each week on Fridays, starting on July 7. The deals will again be revealed only 24 hours ahead of the sale on the DSS website and its social channels.

Grand finale sale

The grand finale sale will run from August 10-12 and will feature the very last price cuts of summer.

Eid Ul Fitr in Dubai will be celebrated from Sunday 25th June 2017

The Shawwal moon-sighting committee in the UAE has announced that Sunday, June 25 207 will be the first day of the month of Shawwal and the first day of Eid Al Fitr.

Sultan Bin Saeed Al Badi, Minister of Justice and chair of the committee, said in a statement following at meeting at Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, that after exhausting all legitimate methods and making contacts with neighbouring countries, the Shawwal moon was sighted and therefore Sunday, June 25, 2017 will be the first day of Shawwal 1438 H.

The minister seized the occasion to send Eid greetings to President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates.

He also greeted the people of the UAE and Muslims across the world on the occasion.
He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless President with continued good health and well-being for the Arab and Muslim Nations.

Guide to getting UAE residence visa for your parents in Dubai

Exp0ats working in Dubai may also invite their parents in Dubai to live with them under certain conditions, here is a brief guide to bringing parents to Dubai

Who can sponsor parents?

UAE expatriates, holding valid resident visas having a minimum salary of Dh20,000 or a monthly pay of Dh19,000 plus a two-bedroom accommodation can get one year renewable resident visas for their parents or parents-in-law.

Both or none

As per new regulations, you have to sponsor both your mother and father together and show proof that you are their sole provider and that there is no one to take care of them in your home country.
However, if your parents are divorced or one is deceased, you should carry documentary proof, when visiting Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD) to obtain the entry permit visa, which is the first step before you can apply for a residence visa.
Getting the entry visa

Your parents have to enter the country on this visa and you should ideally get the residency visa sorted within 60 days from their date of entry.

Documents required

Typed application form from registered typing centres
Original passport of sponsor and parent/s
One photo each of the parent/s
Proof of relationship from your embassy or consulate attesting relationship and that you are the sole provider and care taker for your parent/s
Copy of job contract for the sponsor or salary certificate from employer.

Steps

Take the listed documents and go to General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai. Submit them along with a letter from your side appealing on humanitarian grounds for entry visa for your parent/s. Also, enclose copies of all above documents along with your contact numbers. The Approval Committee will either confirm or reject your application within two weeks.
Have a registered typist complete the form after paying the fees.
Go to the residency section of DNRD and hand in the documents.
Entry Permit will be sent by Empost usually within 48 hours, or if you have applied for urgent visa, then you should receive it from the counter in a few minutes.

Fees

Dh2,000 refundable deposit (keep receipt safely for renewal or reimbursement, as this is paid back only when the visa is cancelled or in case your parent dies)
Dh110 application fee + typing centre fee (or pay Dh100 for urgent application)
Here’s our guide to the mandatory health insurance scheme for dependants and domestic help.

Getting the residency visa

Once you receive the entry permit, get started on the visa procedures to be completed within 60 days from date of entry.
Documents required for residence visa
Application form and 3 photos of parent/s
Original passport of parent/s and sponsor
Original entry permit
Health card of parent/s
Refundable deposit receipt
Original job contract or salary certificate of the sponsor

Steps

Do a health checkup and obtain a medical card.
Take the documents and go to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai.
Have one of the typists there complete the form for you after paying the fees.
Go to the residency section and hand in the documents.
The passport/s with the residency visa stamp will be sent to you through Empost.
Get a basic mandatory insurance policy for your parent/s starting at Dh600.

Fees

Dh110 residency fees each year, not inclusive of typing centre fees
Dh100 urgent application (optional)
Dh10 Empost fees

Source: The official portal of Dubai Government

Wild Wadi to move as two new islands will be built next to the Burj Al Arab Dubai

Just when you thought the city was slowing down for summer, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announces a huge new development unlike anything the city has seen before. And it includes the landmark relocation of Wild Wadi – Dubai’s first dedicated waterpark.

Breaking ground this June 2017, Marsa Al Arab, Dubai Holding’s new US$1.7 billion (Dhs6.3 billion) tourist destination development in the emirate, is set to be developed on two brand-new islands sitting either side of the Burj Al Arab.

One island is set to be dedicated to entertainment and family tourism, while the other will host an exclusive luxury resorts. The islands will add a combined 2.2 kilometres of beachfront to the emirate, along with three new hotels, 400 new food and beverage outlets and a number of new tourist attractions.

Dubai Frame due to open in October
Jumeirah Group (they of the Madinat Jumeirah complex, Burj Al Arab and many more of the UAE’s most instantly recognisable hotels) will introduce new leisure concepts to the family resort island, which will also house the soon-to-be-relocated Wild Wadi Waterpark, which will more than double in size at its new home.

Meanwhile, a “Marine Park” will be developed by Dubai Holding, becoming a first-of-its-kind edutainment centre for the Middle East, with a 1,000-capacity live theatre to showcase different elements of marine life.

Combined, the new Wild Wadi and Marine Park will cover 2.5 million sq ft.

Marsa Al Arab will also be home to a private yacht marina and yacht club, as well as an assortment of restaurants and cafés. No Dubai development is complete without a retail component, and a 20,000 square metre shopping centre is certain to provide just that. A 1,700-capacity theatre, which will become home to the renowned Cirque du Soleil, completes (for now) the entertainment line-up.

Dubai Holding will also develop 140 Jumeirah Group-operated luxury villas on the “exclusive private island”, featuring a marina for residents, and a boutique hotel.

The project is expected to be completed by late 2020.

Ruler of Ajman Humaid Al Nuaimi opens second edition of Ajman Orphans Festival

AJMAN, 16th April, 2017 (WAM) — H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has said that Emiratis providing assistance to the underprivileged, both within and outside the country, remain the best role models in the field of charitable work.

He also hailed the role played by philanthropic organisations, associations, entities and businesspersons in supporting charitable work, especially by supporting orphans and helping them communicate and interact in society. This support has contributed towards engaging orphans as effective members of society, who are part of the homeland and its prudent leadership, he added.

The remarks were made at the opening ceremony of the second Ajman Orphans Festival held at the Ajman Youth Center of the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare.

The Ajman Ruler also commended the wise leadership’s support for orphans through its establishment of popular institutions that patronize and provide them with services they need.

H.H. Sheikh Humaid also hailed the attention given to orphans by the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highness’s the Rulers of the Emirates.

The teachings of Islam urge people to support and provide a dignified life, and psychological and social stability to orphans, he noted.

The Ajman Ruler received a gift in recognition of his support for charitable organisations, and his keenness to support charitable works in society, especially those for orphans.

Several Sheikhs, senior officials, more than 200 orphans and their families participated in activities during the event.

Abu Dhabi hosts workshop on falconry

WAM Abu Dhabi, 10 June 2009 (WAM) – A workshop will take place on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi as part of Arab States preparation to submit a dossier for the registration of falconry in the list of intangible cultural heritage of the UNESCO.

The workshop will be held for two days with the participation of UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Morocco and Syria.

“The workshop will discuss the requirements for registration of falconry in the intangible heritage list,” said Dr Nasser bin Ali Al Hamiari, Director of the Department of the Intangible Heritage of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH).

“After the preparation of the dossier; we will complete some of the international registration procedures as part of the coordination of work and exchange of experiences, especially since the United Arab Emirates has much expertise in this field,” he added.

The opening session will include addresses by Hamiari; Mohammed Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Director General of ADACH; Majed Ali Al Mansouri, Director of the Emirates Falconers Club and Secretary General of the Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi; Bilal bin Rabie Al Budour, Director Executive of the Ministry of Culture, Arts, Culture, Youth and Community Development; and Ali Awadh bin Saleh, President of the Intergovernmental Committee; in addition to other participating delegations.

The workshop, in its first day, will discuss the requirements of registration, list of surveys, and the participation of local community, presented by Dr. Ismail Ali Al Faheel. The registration form will be presented by Dr. Sulaiman Najem Khalaf.

The second day will be devoted to the preparation of the international dossier on falconry with the participation of all members. There will be a review of what has been completed regarding the international dossier

Dubai Falconry Tour : A tour that will take you close to the falcons and will teach you training, feeding and life aspects of falcons.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Tour: Tour Abu Dhabi highlighting Abu Dhabi Falcon hospital.

Pink Caravan Ride to launch 7th edition

SHARJAH, 7th February, 2017 Sharjah-based Friends of Cancer Patients’ (FoCP’s) annual cancer campaign, the Pink Caravan Ride will carry out a 10-day cancer awareness drive across the seven emirates from 7 to 17 March 2017 making it the 7th of the series of Pink Caravan.

The theme this year will be ‘7 Years.. for 7 Emirates’, and celebrates the union of the seven emirates. It also strongly upholds the ‘spirit of giving’, as it boldly continues its mission to promote breast cancer awareness, spread the importance of early detection and organise free screenings across the UAE, regardless of age, sex or nationality.

Being held under the generous patronage of Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Founder and Royal Patron of FoCP, International Ambassador for the World Cancer Declaration of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and International Ambassador for Childhood Cancer for UICC, the itinerary of this horseback expedition, including its equine route, medical route, fundraising initiatives, and events, was announced by the Higher Organising Committee of the Pink Caravan Ride at a press conference held on Tuesday at Flag Island.

In her welcome speech, Reem BinKaram, Chairperson of the Higher Organising Committee of the Pink Caravan Ride, said: “For the first time, the Pink Caravan Ride will see the inauguration of seven stationed clinics in the seven emirates. Medical teams at these clinics will receive people who want to undergo screenings, and take up visitor queries. These clinics will be stationed at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah, Dubai City Walk, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Ajman Corniche, Al Hamra Mall in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Khazzan Healthcare Clinic in Umm Al Quwain. In Fujairah, it will be located at Al Khazan Health Center.”

Bin Karam elaborated: “We are all here today – organisers and sponsors, doctors and nurses, riders and volunteers, media persons and audiences – to send a message of goodness far and wide. This is a reinforcement of our dedication to our community to help them lead a healthy life, and prepare a society fully aware of breast cancer. I would like to wholeheartedly thank all members, supporters and sponsors, who have taken us from strength to strength in helping us fulfill our vision and broaden the scope of our goals each year.”

Expressing his pride in how the Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC) has been working hand in hand with the Pink Caravan as their media partner and support sponsor, Mohamed Khalaf, Manager of Sharjah TV and Radio, said: “Pink Caravan’s invaluable contribution to society propels us to continue to provide excellent media support and sponsorship. This initiative has been able to truly make a difference to the UAE, and has helped us fulfill our social and philanthropic mission in society. Six years ago, we assisted the Pink Caravan in their first purchase of a mobile clinic, and have not looked back since.”

Praising all efforts made by the late Ameera BinKaram, former Chairperson of the Pink Caravan Organising Committee, he added: “She was the one who took the Pink Caravan from being a mere idea to making it an internationally recognised cancer awareness campaign.”

Representing another sponsorship partner, Sharjah Islamic Bank, their Head of Organisational Excellence, Jassem Al Bloushi, said: Sharjah’s strong commitment in providing a good life to human beings irrespective of gender, age, or nationality deserves our complete support. We, at Sharjah Islamic Bank, are keen to fully participate in every FoCP and Pink Caravan initiative to safeguard the comfort and happiness of all.”

“Despite dear Ameera’s passing, we will continue this march,” he added.

Dr Ayesha Suhail, Director of Primary Healthcare, Ministry of Health and Prevention, said: “I hereby declare the Ministry of Health as full partners of the Pink Caravan Ride, which will set off on 7 March. We are well prepared for the campaign, and will provide free screenings and mammograms throughout the Ride.”

Dr Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of FoCP, and Head of Pink Caravan’s Medical Awareness Committee, along with Badr Al Juaidi, Head of Logistics Services Committee, discussed the categories of routes that PCR will undertake during the 10-day cross-emirate campaign.

Nada Askar Al Naqbi, Head of Events Committee, took stage to take the attendants through the Pink Caravan Ride’s activities and events itinerary.

“For the first time in Pink Caravan’s history, we will be hosting a ‘Pink Caravan Children’s Ride’ on Friday, 10 March at the Desert Palm Dubai from 2pm to 5pm. This Ride is aimed at teaching the nation’s youth the importance of humanitarian causes, thereby increasing their participation in the same,” Al Naqbi said.

“A new highlight this year is ‘Pink Yoga, an exclusive event for women, organised in collaboration with the Dubai ladies Club,” she added.

A special programme marking the closing ceremony of the Pink Caravan Ride will be showcased in Abu Dhabi on 17 March.

الرئيس الباكستاني يستقبل قرقاش

اسلام اباد فى 11 يونيو/ وام / استقبل فخامة الرئيس آصف علي زرداري رئيس جمهورية باكستان الاسلامية اليوم معالي الدكتور أنور محمد قرقاش وزير الدولة للشؤون الخارجية الذي نقل لفخامته تحيات صاحب السمو الشيخ خليفة بن زايد ال نهيان رئيس الدولة حفظه الله وصاحب السمو الشيخ محمد بن راشد آل مكتوم نائب رئيس الدولة رئيس مجلس الوزراء حاكم دبي والفريق أول سمو الشيخ محمد بن زايد آل نهيان ولي عهد أبوظبي نائب القائد الأعلى للقوات المسلحة.

وتم خلال اللقاء بحث التطورات والاوضاع فى باكستان

وتأتي زيارة معالي وزير الدولة للشؤون الخارجية الى باكستان كجزء من دعم الامارات لباكستان وتعزيز التواصل بين البلدين

كما قام معالي الدكتور أنور محمد قرقاش وزير الدولة للشؤون الخارجية والوفد المرافق بزيارة الى مخيم شاه منصور الذي يضم 20 الف لاجىء من لاجئي وادي سوات.

وعبر معاليه عن التزام دولة الامارات بتقديم الدعم الانساني للاجئين وقال ان مؤسسة خليفة بن زايد للاعمال الخيرية تلعب دورا اساسيا فى هذا الجهد الانساني .. واضاف معاليه ” ان عمل المؤسسة يمثل التعبير الصادق للايادي البيضاء لصاحب السمو الشيخ خليفة بن زايد ال نهيان رئيس الدولة حفظه الله حيث ان المؤسسة بدات بدعم احتياجات لاجئي وادي سوات منذ عدة أشهر وشمل الدعم تقديم المواد الغذائية والاحتياجات المعيشية والسكنية للاجئين”.

وتابع معاليه قائلا ” ولاشك ان مساهمة المؤسسة ب 30 مليون دولار ستفعل من عملها فى وادي سوات من خلال تواجدها فى الميدان او من خلال تعاونها مع منظمات الاغاثة الدولية “.

واشار معاليه ” بأن التصدي للتطرف والارهاب يحتاج الى تضافر الجهود ليس فقط في المجال الميداني بل في المجال الانساني من خلال التصدي وبفاعلية للمعاناة الانسانية التى نشهدها فى منطقة سوات “.

واختتم معاليه قائلا ” ان دولة الامارات تدرك دورها الانساني وتهيب بالدول العربية والاسلامية ان تشارك فى هذه المسؤولية الجماعية من منطلق انساني واسلامي”

Ruler of Sharjah opens Sharjah Maritime Museum

Sharjah, Jun 07th, 2009 His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, opened the Maritime Museum, here today, in presence of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi.

The inauguration of the Sharjah Maritime Museum comes in line with the efforts of Sharjah emirate to focus on the marine life, which constitutes an essential part of the heritage in the region. The population used to depend on the fishing and pearling.

The move is also part of the expansion plan of the old aquarium and maritime museum at the heritage district.

Sheikh Sultan toured the new museum, which includes samples of marine life, fishing tools, pearl trade, dhow building, diving devices, samples of dhows and photos of the renowned sailors and captains.

He stressed the significance of museum, which gathers and conserves the UAE and the Gulf maritime heritage, and showcases it to public to educate them about the civilisation of the country, adding that “this will help to implant the allegiance and preserve the national heritage.

In the museum one can explore traditional wooden seafaring dhows used for fishing, trading and pearling, each designed according to their use. One can also see genuine Arabian pearls, discover how they were collected, measured and weighed. And admire the powerful wooden pulley blocks used to raise and lower sails and discover the local traditions for catching fish.

The event was also attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department, Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, head of the Finance and Administration Department, other Sheikhs and senior officials.

Dubai Summer Surprises 2009 reveals a calendar of events

Dubai Summer Surprises, the Dubai’s biggest summer shopping and entertainment extravaganza, revealed its calendar of events for its twelfth edition in an exclusive press conference held at The Sheraton Towers, Kuwait, on Monday, June 1, 2009.

The conference was attended by Ibrahim Saleh, Coordinator General of the DSF Office, and senior officials from Emirates airline and the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

The conference is part of a comprehensive DSS road show targeting Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and includes numerous participants from Dubai’s retail, travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

Being organized for 65 days from June 11 to August 14 this year, Ibrahim Saleh spoke at length on the attractions of DSS 2009 through a detailed presentation. He began with the theme for DSS 2009, ‘Surprising Dubai’, saying it would incorporate all attractions of a vibrant city and those that DSS would offer including some of the best shopping deals, world-class entertainment shows, prizes worth millions, and prominent spas providing value-added spa packages for a rejuvenating experience.

‘As much as Kuwait is a neighbour, it is also a key market for DSS. I would like to invite every Kuwaiti family to Dubai during DSS 2009 to experience a world of summer festivities,’ said Saleh. Several packages and deals by DTCM and Emirates airline were also unveiled during the conference.

Ahmed Khoory, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations Gulf Middle East and Iran said:
‘This year, in line with DSS, Emirates has developed an incredible offer that we expect will further entice families from Kuwait to travel to Dubai. The ‘Kids Go Free’ offer recognises that the current global financial crisis has put a strain on many holiday budgets. Knowing that their child will travel, stay, eat and play for free will take a huge degree of financial pressure off the family budget and will allow families to plan a summer vacation without added financial stress.’

Talal Khalifa Al Suwaidi, DTCM Head of India, Middle East and North Africa Section at Overseas Promotions said, ‘This road show is part of our efforts in working with government and private sector entities to promote Dubai and the many attractions that it offers to visitors. Dubai received around 167,000 hotel and hotel apartment guests in addition to over 1.63 million Kuwaiti travellers through Dubai International Airport last year. Thus, Kuwait is an important market for Dubai especially due to the geographical proximity enabling thousands of visitors to take advantage of the excellent transport infrastructure and the lessened travel time.’

Opening Ceremony
Similar to all previous DSS openings, the DSS 2009 opening ceremony will combine glitz, glamour, and a host of surprises for visitors and residents. The high-profile event will see a combination of international entertainment, elaborate settings, and a preview of what DSS will offer over 65 days of non-stop summer excitement.

Signature Events
Signature Events, a series of theme-based activities and a major attraction during the summer, all conceptualized at the Dubai Shopping festival Office as original Ideas, and proved to be very popular. DSS 2009 will have nine events this year: the Sheila and Abaya Fashion (27 June – 30 June), World of Stories (12 June – 23 June), Middle East Junior Chef of the Year 2009 (8 July – 14 July), Min Bladi Al Emarat (1 July – 10 July), Arts Oasis (9 July – 15 July), Kids Fashion Week (16 Jul – 22 Jul), Kids Olympic Games (23 July – 29 July), The Collectors (27 July – 7 August), and the Photography Exhibition (6 August – 13 August). As the core entertainment segment of every DSS edition, Signature Events encapsulate the high level of entertainment offered to DSS visitors.

Other Attractions

Cool Activities at the Beach
Apart form numerous new inclusions, one particular attraction that aims to stand out this year is titled ‘Cool activities at the beach’. Activities include rain parties, barbecue nights, covered sun beds, beach spa treatments, and sea food restaurants to name a few.

Modhesh
The ever-smiling bubbly mascot of DSS celebrates ten years of non-stop excitement this year and is back in 2009 to present a host of surprises for children in Dubai. As the unmistakable face of summer fun and entertainment, Modhesh will be meeting his friends in malls and select places to hand out DSS goody bags and pose for pictures.

Modhesh World
Celebrating a decade of Modhesh in 2009, Modhesh World brings the region’s largest indoor entertainment venue to visitors and residents during this DSS. An integral part of the summer extravaganza, Modhesh World features themed-zones providing high-level of quality entertainment to children, teenagers, and families.

Spa Packages
The ‘DSS 2009 Spa Packages’ is a unique concept that allows visitors and residents to discover some of the finest spa establishments offering premium therapies and treatments at discounted rates. This happens only during summer, and this year, the Dubai Summer Surprises has collaborated with over 30 spas to provide every visitor a refreshing experience.

Apprentice Programme
The best and the brightest young minds from 9 countries spanning the MENA region will participate in this year’s award-winning DSS Apprenticeship Programme. The highly successful programme, now in its fourth year, will feature exceptional Business Administration and Marketing students from colleges in KSA, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Qatar, Lebanon and Egypt, for a once in a lifetime opportunity to work on DSS – one the biggest tourism success stories in the

DTCM Meets Touroperators and hoteliers to increase hotel occupancy

Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has held a meeting with the representatives of hotels, hotel apartments and major tour operators at the One and Only Royal Mirage to review DSS The Dubai Summer Surprise promotional campaign to boost the number of visitors and hotel occupancy in Dubai.

The meeting was attended among others by DTCM executive director media relations and business development Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman and DTCM deputy director visitors’ information bureaus, Ahmed Mohammed Hassan.

At the meeting Rahman outlined various initiatives launched by the DTCM to increase hotel occupancies and attract more visitors to the emirate during the summer months and rest of the year.

He said the department was working on a promotional campaign for the summer targeting visitors from Europe and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states under the title ‘Visit Dubai During Summer’.

The meeting also discussed a marketing plan for the UK, one of the top source markets for Dubai’s tourism industry.

Earlier last year, the department created a task force with experts and representatives of Dubai tourism industry players, to review the tourism market landscape and take appropriate measures.

Based on the inputs provided by the industry players and experts, the department took measures which reflected in hotel occupancies getting a boost even in the first quarter of 2009.

AED1 mn Etisalat Prize for Arabic Children’s Literature launched

Sharjah, 22nd May 2009 (WAM) In a move to preserve Arab children’s culture during a time of globalization and digital cultural revolution, the Arab Children’s Book Publishers Forum has announced the launch of the Etisalat Prize for the most distinguished Arabic children’s literature.

With one million dirhams in prize money, this award will become the most recognized award in its category, and the 2009 winner is expected to be announced at the Sharjah World Book Fair, scheduled for November this year.

The award highlights the importance of collaboration between governmental bodies focusing on Arab children, and educational and cultural institutions, and their significant contribution to the project for developing Arab children’s culture and promoting children’s literature. This project was launched in response to the challenges associated with the ongoing regional social transformation and digital technology-driven diverse and complicated educational resources.

The award recognizes the importance of book-based knowledge for children and the role it plays in stimulating the imagination, intellect and creativity of a child, building character and promoting human values. Children’s literature is the most significant tool available for preserving national identity, tradition, culture and heritage, and is the ultimate resource to bridge the gap between different cultures and civilizations.

Commenting on the occasion, H.E. Sheikha Bodour Al Qassimi, Founder and CEO of Kalimat Publishing, and honorary member of the Arab Children’s Book Publishers Forum, emphasized the role of institutions in growing children’s culture, and its role in promoting Arab culture, saying: “If the need for Arab cultural development is urgent, the need for developing the Arab children’s culture is more urgent, as building the child is the cornerstone for future growth.

“Etisalat has decided to play an effective role in human development in the UAE community through extending support and sponsorship to different organizations. This can then be made a real part of social and cultural reform programmes that aim to improve human skills and experiences, develop productivity, stimulate creativity, and help talented individuals achieve their full potential,” he added.

In addition to sponsoring the Children’s Book Award, Etisalat has covered the costs of the Arab Children Book Publishers Forum’s participation at Book Expo America (BEA) 2009, where a 225-book space pavilion has been designated for use by the Forum, while a catalogue that contains the names of member publishers and an introduction of each member publishing house was printed by the Forum.

A symposium with discussion opportunity will be conducted on publishing children books, with the list of speakers including H.E. Sheikha Bodour Al Qassimi, Dr. Amira Abu Al Majid and Dr. Najlaa Bashour. The symposium is planned to tackle challenges and copyright processes facing the publishing industry.

Exhibition space has also been designated for five Arab illustrators, and invitations to participate were sent out to five Arab Forum member publishers, while plans are in place to organize field visits for USA-based HarperCollins Publishers and Scholastic, and to study their experience in the publishing industry. Visits to two children’s bookshops, Bank Street Bookstore and Books of Wonder, where reading sessions will be organized for Arab children, are also scheduled.

At the end of the Expo, the Forum, in coordination with the Expo management, will donate the books in the exhibition to one of the centers that are visited by the Arab communities.