Dubai: The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) organising committee held its first meeting for DSF 2009 last Thursday at Terminal 3 of the Dubai International Airport.
The 14th edition of the festival will begin on January 15 and continue until February 15.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, and Jamal Al Hai, Vice President of Strategy, Dubai Airports, welcomed the committee at Terminal 3. The meeting was presided over by Ebrahim Saleh, Coordinator General of the DSF Office, in addition to a host of government dignitaries and officials who comprise the committee.
Three new government departments have joined the committee this year -Community Development Authority, Dubai Sports Council, and Dubai Event Management Corporation - taking the number of departments represented in the DSF Organising Committee to 21.
The gathering was briefed on the outlines of the upcoming DSF edition, and plans to ensure the smooth functioning of DSF 2009 were also discussed. Saleh began by thanking the government representatives for their support for DSF and their continued contribution in promoting Dubai as a leading global city.
"The cooperation between the various government departments is an essential element of every successful DSF edition and the organising committee plays an integral role in ensuring efficient operational levels in all aspects of the festival.
"This coordination is a reflection of our endeavour to highlight and promote Dubai as a world-class tourist and investment destination," said Saleh. He also elaborated some of the key attractions that will be organised during DSF 2009.
Representatives of several government departments including Dubai Municipality and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation were present.
Dubai: Acclaimed director Oliver Stone will walk the red carpet at Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) for the gala screening and regional premiere of his latest movie W.
Some of the biggest names in cinema will arrive in Dubai for the fifth instalment of Diff including Nicolas Cage, Brendon Fraser, Danny Glover, Salma Hayek, Goldie Hawn, Laura Linney and child actress Eliza Bennett.
Taking place from December 11-18, DIFF brings 181 films from 66 countries and will showcase 16 world premieres, mostly from the Arab region.
Bollywood heavyweights Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor and Nandita Das will also make star appearances as well as legendary producer Charles Roven, who brought films including The Dark Knight, Batman Begins and the Brothers Grimm.
Arab stars include Yasmina Khadra, Carmen Lebbos, Sameer Ganem, Sameer Sabri, Hicham Saleem and Saeed Saleh.
Staff are working round the clock at the Madinat Jumeirah to transform the venue ready for the star-studded event.
Bigger and better each year is something organisers promised and bigger and better it always is.
In 2004 the festival screened 76 films from 27 countries and had just one world premiere against this year's 181 films and 16 premieres.
Rhythm and Reels, a three-day event, which showcased the world of music and film as one, will also feature this year at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre with Cadillac Records, a film which follows the rise and fall of Chess Records and their artists in the 1950s.
The AmFar gala dinner, which last year raised more than $3 million (Dh11.01 million), will also make a welcome return and is sure to bring celebrities from around the world to the red carpet.
One of the world's leading Aids charities, AmFar ambassadors Goldie Hawn and Salma Hayek will head up this year's proceedings.
Tickets for all screenings and events went on sale today at www.dubaifilmfest.com and will be available for purchase in person at Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Festival City cinemas, as well as the Madinat Theatre Box Office, from November 27.
Dubai: Filipino pop star and Unicef national ambassador of goodwill Gary Valenciano, or Gary V for short, is coming to Dubai for a concert on November 27. The Dubai leg of his 25th anniversary world tour will also feature artists Yeng Constantino, Paolo and Gabriel.
Valenciano’s Dubai concert will be held at the Aviation Club. Doors open at 7pm. For tickets call 0507471355.
Abu Dhabi: The latest data about Abu Dhabi's habitats, wildlife, agriculture, forestry, soils and water, among other topics can now be accessed with just a click of a button. The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has developed a geospatial data portal that makes environmental data and metadata readily available to government organisations and the general public. The portal, with a new interface in both Arabic and English, is a one-stop access point for environmental data in Abu Dhabi.
The general public can now quickly and easily access EAD's entire catalogue of geospatial data, maps and information about the data that was used to make those maps. The Geoportal even offers the ability to build your own map. "In order to properly manage our environment, we need to understand our geography better, whether we are talking about land, water or air. Part of our role is to provide the community with the information they need to make wiser choices when it comes to our environment," said Majid Al Mansouri, Secretary General of EAD.The portal can be accessed at www.geoportal.ae
The Hisn Fort is the former residence of the Al Qasimi Ruling family that displays traditional architecture and artefacts. Built in 1820 by Shaikh Sultan Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the double-storey fort is the home to priceless items including old photographs, classic weapons and trading tools that showcase 200 years of Sharjah's history. This carefully restored fort is situated in the middle of Burj Avenue and was the residence of the ruling family for 200 years. Although it was torn down in 1969 due to the structural changes of the city, His Highness Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah restored it with the help of old photographs and documents, his own notes and the assistance of elderly residents. It now houses a museum with exhibits on pearl fishing, education and trade, as well jewellery, and weapons.
Abu Dhabi: The 6th Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Festival will be held from March 21 to April 4 next year, the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) announced on Monday. Held under the patronage of Shaikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the festival is the region’s foremost cultural event, attracting world-class artists from across the globe. Tickets are set to go on sale on 25 January next year, with full details of performers announced at that time. Speaking of the upcoming festival, Hoda I. Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, said: “Next year, our line up of artists will be world-class – it’s our most inspiring schedule yet.”
“Throughout the Festival we will be running workshops and talks for the public to find out more about the performances.” she added. At the 2008 event, more than 9,000 people attended a schedule of performances ranging from ballet to Arabian and Western contemporary classical music.
Sharjah: His Highness Shaikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, on Wednesday inaugurated the Sharjah World Book Fair. The 27th edition of the 10-day cultural and edutainment event is organized by the department of culture and information of Sharjah government at the Sharjah expo centre. 491 Arab publishers and 272 foreign publishers from around 23 countries will exhibit more than 100,000 titles, out of which 28,698 are in Arabic. The number of new editions to be put on display amounts to 57,927. The opening ceremony was attended by high profile audience, including Shaikhs, ministers and senior officials and prominent Arab and foreign publishers.
Dubai: The UAE has added to its score of creating 'many firsts' with the launch of the first camel milk chocolate. Chocolate lovers could not get their hands off the trays filled with camel milk chocolates at the world launch that took place on Wednesday at the Madinat Al Saalam in Dubai on Wednesday
Manufacturer Al Nassma united professionals from many parts of world to create the unique chocolates. It was a moment of truth for those who worked behind this project. They waited anxiously to get a feedback. While some said it’s too sugary some others said there was a lingering taste, but all agreed that the experience was no less sensuous.
Abu Dhabi: Mohammad Obaid Al Mazroui, Head of the UAE Haj Mission, reviewed the work of committees assigned for inspecting residential complexes rented by Haj operators for pilgrims.
Al Mazrouri said, on returning from Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, that inspectors examined residential units rented by licensed Haj contractors.
He said some 153 accredited Haj operators had leased 235 buildings in the two holy cities of Makkah and Madina of which 228 were given clean bill for satisfying the hygienic requirements set out by the general authority for Islamic affairs and Auqaf in coordination with Saudi Haj authorities.
The official urged Haj operators to do their best to serve pilgrims so as to perform the fifth pillar of Islam comfortably and safely.
Abu Dhabi: The first two opening hours of the NAJAH exhibition attracted busloads of parents, professionals and more than 1,000 enthusiastic students seeking education, counselling advice and career paths, witnessed Gulf News on Sunday.
The NAJAH Education Training Careers exhibition is taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from October 19 to 21, featuring over 100 national and international companies and universities looking to recruit new talent.
Other booths such as the Ministry of Education and the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) offer consultation and advice for high school students who are indecisive about which university to enter.
Senior Supervisor and Psychologist at the ministry, Ahmad Eid, said that a total of ten psychologists are rotating each day to offer advice and consultation to parents, job seekers and students.
"We sit with students or job seekers and try to analyse their character and listen to their concerns. They fill out a questionnaire which allows the psychologist to understand the individuals' character. We do all we can to advice people on their areas of strengths and what field or area of study they should pursue," said the official.
One of the ministry psychologists, Hajar Al Hussani, spoke to over 20 individuals in less than two hours. "I haven't even had time to have my morning coffee. I am impressed with this year's exhibition; I feel there's more interest and enthusiasm from both students and job seekers."
Even though it's his first appearance in the NAJAH exhibition, Dr Mugheer Al Khaili, Director-General in the ADEC, is impressed with the quality and presentation of the exhibition. "I am especially impressed with the new scientific research centre offering inaugurated by Shaikh Khalifa University ten days ago and expect it to be ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide soon. It's apparent today that universities are encouraging students to enter the science field."
Mohammad Al Daheri, the Director of the Abu Dhabi Education Zone (ADEZ), feels the exhibition helps in simplifying a student/parents choice when selecting a particular university or job. "There's so much variety for students to select from. National and international organisations all under one roof."
Christine Weaver, Exhibitions Director for IIR Middle East (who are the organisers for NAJAH) told Gulf News that approximately 550 schools have been approached to take part in the exhibition. Students attending NAJAH come from Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Western Region.
The 2007 NAJAH exhibition witnessed 4,000 visitors, expected number this year is 6,000. "There's more awareness and interactive activities this year from students, parent and job seekers. Visitors who attended last years NAJAH exhibition realised that they walked out with ideas and an insight on what they want to do," said Weaver
Dubai: Lebanese pop sensation Nancy Ajram will perform at the inaugural Arab-Russian Gala in Dubai next month. The event is being held at Madinat Jumeirah on November 6.
A number of elite Russian artistes, including 2008 Eurovision Contest winner Dima Bilan and ballet duo Nikolai Tsiskaridze and Ilze Liepa, also form part of the evening line-up. The gala will include a charity auction to raise funds for the Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre, the Welfare Association, a leading Palestinian non-government organisation, and the construction of the first Russian Orthodox Cathedral in the UAE, Parish of Saint Philip.
Sergey Krasnogor, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Dubai, said the event marked a historic moment in relations between the two countries.
"We support all activities and business initiatives between the two countries and hope to organise more meetings to discuss further opportunities on both sides," he said.
The initiative was instigated by London-based event organiser Ensemble Productions and the Russian-Arab Business Council in Moscow in conjunction with the Centre of Social Communications.
Abu Dhabi: After more than half a century in Hollywood, Jane Fonda refuses to wallow in typical celebrity fluff. On Wednesday night, the two time Oscar-winning actress was honoured with Lifetime Achievement award by Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF) and Cinema Verite.
In an interview prior to accepting the award, the 70-year-old actress said, "In all honesty I have received many of these awards and as you'd probably imagine it's not like collecting an Oscar and the trophy just gathers dust in a cabinet. Picking up an award of this nature is not exactly the high point in your career. However this one is different and I really mean it." Known for her feminist causes, Fonda feels that her film Barbarella that was directed by her then-husband Roger Vadim in 1968 could have been one of cinema's great films.
Abu Dhabi: National Geographic Entertainment will tie up with Image-nation Abu Dhabi to produce 15 documentaries and movies over the next five years, a senior executive of the global media company said on Saturday.
"We will be doing films on this region using local talent, producers and local writers," said Tim Kelly, president of National Geographic Global Media.
"We want to tell global stories to a global audience," he added. The two companies plan to commit $100 million to the projects.
The plan was announced yesterday by Kelly and Edward Borgerding, CEO of Image-nation Abu Dhabi, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Media Company.
National Geographic Entertainment, a division of National Geographic Global Media, said the films will be budgeted between $5 million and $60 million.
National Geographic said it would like to hear the ideas first. "We would like to see what comes from the woodwork before we pick our first project," Kelly said.
He said it was very hard to get directors and writers for the project via the Western studios.
Image-nation Abu Dhabi was launched last month to develop, finance and produce full-length feature films and digital content for Arab and global markets. From its base in Abu Dhabi, the company is establishing partnerships with international producers to develop and produce content for distribution internationally.
Abu Dhabi: Saqr Gobash Saeed Gobash, Labour Minister and Chairman of the National Media Council (NMC), stressed the significance of the UAE's participation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) days in Madrid, from October 13 to 15, with a top delegation.
Gobash, said the step taken by external media department at the NMC to coordinate the participation of the UAE in the event, "is an important step towards boosting cultural, economic and media dialogue between GCC countries and Spain in particular."
Abu Dhabi: The four-day Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, 2008 (Adihex) starting on Wednesday will feature the world's biggest camel auction and an auction for hybrid falcons. The show will be held at the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition Centre.
The show that aims to highlight the culture and heritage of the UAE is organised by the Emirates Falconers' Club, the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (Adach), Sorouh Real Estate and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
Addressing a press conference here yesterday, Mohammad Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Organising Committee, said 526 companies from 37 countries have confirmed their participation in the evnt, an increase of 22 per cent from the last edition. Apart from the camel and falcon auctions, this year's Adihex will also feature a horse show for yearlings up to three years of age. The Saluki beauty contest, art competitions and other traditional hunting activities are also part of the event.
Highlight
About 80 of the UAE's best camels donated by Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, will be auctioned off and the proceeds will go towards camel research.
The falcon auction, aimed at protecting endangered wild falcons from extinction, will this year feature hybrid birds instead of wild ones.
With starting prices fixed between Dh20,000 to Dh40,000 for falcons based on their type (Barbari, Gyr Shaheen, Biyour), size (16 to 18 inches) and weight (1,100 to 1,400 grams) the falcon auction is expected to be a big draw.
Adihex visitors will also get to enjoy folklore and other cultural shows while a painting and photograph exhibition highlighting the UAE's culture and heritage will also be held on the sidelines.
A permanent security committee has been set up to oversee licensing of hunting weapons, ease paper work and to raise awareness on the acquisition of such weapons, the organisers said.
Dubai, Oct 6 (PTI) Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan on Sunday teamed up with a UAE-based real estate firm to launch a $2.17 billion signature beachfront residential project in the gulf country.
The development project, a tribute by King Khan in response to the love and affection shown by the people of the UAE to Indian cinema, Shah Rukh Khan Boulevard will be located on the Dana Island in Ras Al Khaimah.
This is the latest in the series of endorsements and signature developments that are coming up in Dubai with names such as Brad Pitt, Boris Becker and Tiger Woods continuously doing the rounds.
SRK will work closely with Los Angeles based architect Tony Ashai in the design concept of the beachfront community comprising 10 residential towers, it was announced during a press conference here.
Announcing the project with TSA Group, Shah Rukh Khan said, "Indian cinema has enjoyed strong emotional ties with the UAE and Arab cine-goers for decades. The Arab world is Hindi film industry's strongest foreign market".
"Shah Rukh Khan Boulevard is my tribute to the love and affection shown by the people of the UAE to Indian cinema. I have lent my name to the project and I intend to share and transfer my passion for design and living spaces into this world class community that residents will be proud of."
Scheduled for completion in 2012, Shah Rukh Khan Boulevard will have residences including specially designed studios, and one-and two-bedroom apartments and townhouses. It will also have beachfront features piers and boardwalks besides marine sports and leisure facilities.
Dubai: Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, attended the premiere of the acclaimed play The Return of the Phoenix presented by the Rahbani family on Wednesday as part of "Eid in Dubai" celebrations.
Shaikh Majid was welcomed by Laila Suhail, CEO of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Office, and Ebrahim Saleh, Coordinator General of the DSF Office.
The play attracted a sell-out crowd at the Airport Expo Dubai and premiered as one of the main highlights of the new initiative organised by the DSF Office along with National Bonds, the founder sponsor of the event.
The Return of the Phoenix was a dramatic spectacle that delighted families celebrating the Eid holidays, enthralling people of different cultural and religious orientations as they witnessed the Rahbani family's flair for artistry, drama and music.
The theme of the play is inspired by a great war that brought out the people's undying love for Byblos.
Dubai/Sharjah: After the popularity of two days of entertainment and celebrations, Eid Al Fitr activities are set to continue into the weekend.
Not only did residents of the UAE throng to the Emirates' malls, parks and special Eid activities, but the festivities also attracted regional visitors.
Sa'adoun Ganem and his three children from Iraq, said that they have never enjoyed Eid as much as they did this year.
"The fuwalla tent at the mall was an innovative idea and my children were so thrilled to be given Eid sweets," Ganem said. "Being a fan of classical music, I liked the solo musicians and I also listened to the music band on stage in Festival Centre."
The family attended the Dubai Festival City celebrations, as part of the 'Eid in Dubai' initiative.
Fireworks Fireworks displays have also captivated audiences from the UAE and abroad, and are set to continue in some places this weekend.
Dubai Airport Expo has also been home to numerous shows, including Barney's Magical castle and 'Return of the Phoenix' by Osama Al Rahbani, which provided afternoon and evening entertainment for all.
Dubai's parks are continuing to entertain children and their families, with camel, horse and pony rides, inflatable and electronic games and face painting.
No doubt the public parks will still be drawing hundreds of visitors, who have taken time out to enjoy the emirate's green spaces. From barbeques to football on the grass, locals and residents alike have celebrated Eid with in true festive spirit.
Celebrations in Sharjah Al Qasba is hosting a series of activities for families during the Eid Al Fitr holidays. The four day festival started on Tuesday and continues until tomorrow, from 6.30 pm to 1.00 am.
The celebrations at Al Qasba include Al Qasba Musical Fountain Shows, firework shows, great beats from traditional Arabic bands and activities for children and adults.
Popular for its heritage activities, Al Qasba hosts exciting events for its visitors including traditional seating areas for families to relax in while sipping homemade Qahwa (traditional coffee) and munching delicacies, including the famous Emirati sweets Luquaimat made on the spot by UAE nationals.
Silk Road theme The Al Qasba celebrations also provide a multicultural experience, with the Ramadaniat Al Qasba "Silk Road" theme. Pavilions of a few Silk Road representative countries display across the Al Qasba walkways, including China, India, Iran, Italy and the Levant Region and each country will represent its traditional band and music.
ABU DHABI — The third annual robotics competition for middle-level and high school students will be held on October 13 at the Al Mawaheb Model School for Girls in Abu Dhabi. The event, called UAE National Robot Olympiad (UNRO), will be hosted by the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC).
“The Robot Olympiad is a valuable means to get students to consider the study of science and technology as a career and to produce valuable inventions that will benefit our society,” said ADEC Director-General Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili.
The competition will have two categories - the Regular Category for High Schools, and the Open Category. The theme for the Regular Category is ‘Recycle Keeper’ and for the Open Category ‘Saving Global Environment’.
During the competition, teams will be instructed to solve basic problems within a specified time by using a set of standard mechanical parts.
Dubai/Sharjah/Abu Dhabi/Ras Al Khaimah: Malls and traditional souqs are buzzing with shoppers who are being spoilt for choice by Ramadan sales.
With Eid Al Fitr round the corner Eid mussallas (prayer grounds) and mosques are also getting ready to welcome worshippers.
Families are swarming to shops to buy new clothes and to keep traditions alive by buying jewellery for the special occasion.
Sara Hakeem, a Syrian mother of three, said she is using up part of her savings to buy gifts for her family.
"Our monthly budget would not allow us to buy clothes and jewellery for myself and my two daughters. But we have decided that it is okay to splurge during Eid," said Sara.
"There are times when one cannot compromise, and Eid is one of those times.
"I had saved up a bit extra with Eid in mind and I am splurging it all on buying gifts for my friends and family," said Mahmoud, who works as a manager in a transportation company.
"There are more things on the list like a gold chain for my wife, and gifts for my relatives who are visiting us from Kuwait," said Mohammad who is the chief accountant in a hotel.
Fatima Zafeer, an Indian homemaker said though everything is getting expensive, it does not stop her family from indulging during Eid.
"This occasion is very special and only happens once a year. Children are so excited about it and we do not want to disappoint them. We are taking them to Wild Wadi and will be buying a Playstation that both my sons have been long asking for," said Fatima.
Many shopping malls and supermarkets said they are already witnessing a 25 to 30 per cent surge in business since last week.
A senior salesperson at Damas Jewellery said sales have gone up in his outlet by 25 per cent since last week.
Jewellery shops at the Gold Centre and Souq Al Markazi also saw their fair share of customers since Ramadan started.
"There was a boom of customers around 20 days ago, and everybody was buying bangles and gold sets," said Ramesh Sagar, shopkeeper at K.V. Jewellers.
The cost of 22 carat gold has risen from Dh95 per gram last week to Dh98 now. The cost of 21 carat gold is Dh92 per gram, although it is not as popular among residents.
"We have had a lot of customers in the past week buying jewellery for babies, such as bangles and pendants," said an accountant at J.J. and Sons Jewellers.
A staff member at the Mall of the Emirates said they are expecting the footfall to increase by over 35 per cent during the Eid holidays.
Many shoppers in the capital said thanks to the early payment of salaries by employers they could start shopping well ahead of Eid.
"I am trying to purchase garments for the family, and gifts for relatives and friends now, said V.M. Ali, an Indian.
The outlets have already been crowded, well ahead of Eid and it was expected, a large retail chain said.
"Apart from food and other essential commodities, there is huge demand for garments and gifts," said V. Nandakumar, Corporate Communication Manager of Emke Group that runs LuLu hypermarkets.
Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society said the capital being promoted as a tourist destination has reflected in Eid shopping which has attracted tourists.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy has urged the public to avoid last minute shopping.
The ministry said that last minute buying is anticipated by some greedy traders who take advantage of this trend to raise prices.
Dubai: Celebrations being organised by the Dubai Shopping Festival Office as part of its "Eid in Dubai" event will lean heavily on tradition in a bid to foster a community spirit.
Laila Sohail, chief executive of the Dubai Shopping Festival Office, said the aim was to bring all communities together in their rejoicing.
The Eid celebration district at Dubai Festival City will be the main location for the celebrations. Laila said that the concept of holding festivities in one location is not new, but one that has been forgotten.
Years ago in Dubai, families would gather at an open space or maidan. It was an opportunity for children to play, and everyone to be treated with traditional sweets and delicacies.
"While different nationalities have individual ways of celebrating Eid, the basics are the same," Laila said, "We all have sweets in our homes on Eid."
Malls will be covered with festive trimmings and will host Fuwalat Al Eid, traditional sweets, that are given to visitors on the occasion.
The sweets will also be a substitute for Eidia, a monetary gift given to children during the holiday.
Events such as plays, concerts and fireworks will be at the malls for adults and children.
"We are bringing back the traditions and introducing residents and visitors in Dubai to the Emirati way of celebrating," Laila said.
Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage's endeavour to give talented young filmmakers a chance to perfect their art has started giving results, with six talented Emiratis showing tremendous promise, an official said.
The Circle, an initiative devoted to financing, producing and encouraging budding filmmaking talent in the Middle East, has announced that one of its programmes - the Circle Film Labs, known as Adasa (Arabic for lens) - is making significant headway.
Adasa is a year-round programme devoted to nurturing young filmmakers with special emphasis on story structure and original feature film scripts. Adrienne Briggs, Director of The Circle, said the programme was launched with six participants from the UAE: Alia Al Shamsi, Abdullah Bastaki, Fadel Al Muhairi, Khadeja Al Buloshi, Khalid Al Subaihi and Lamya Gargash.
"They were flown to Los Angeles to attend summer workshop sessions, which provided them with an overview of the filmmaking process and a focus on how to create a story outline," she said in a statement.
Eisa Al Mazroui, Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage Project Manager said: "The Adasa Labs provide a wonderful opportunity to preserve Emirati culture by creating local stories that can be filmed and shared with the world."
Eid in Dubai’ and Global Village present action-packed children’s cartoon show
As Dubai gears up for an exciting and eventful first edition of ‘Eid in Dubai’, there is news of some special guests making their way to town. Barney, the fun loving purple dinosaur, will be back in Dubai during Eid. And this time, he is here with a live-action stage show featuring the ‘Backyard Gang’ in a medieval-themed, musical-fantasy adventure with kings and knights, an enchanted forest, a costume parade, and twenty tunes to entertain children.
Barney’s Musical Castle has been performed in front of over a million Barney fans and ‘Eid in Dubai’, along with Global Village, is pleased to bring home this tee-rific show that promises to be a super-dee-duper success among families celebrating their Eid holidays in Dubai. The show will be held at the Airport Expo Dubai in two shows at 4pm and 6pm on the first, second, third, and fourth day of Eid-Al-Fitr.
“We are very pleased to present the “Barney’s Magical Castle” show as part of the ‘Eid in Dubai’ festival”, said Abdul Redha Ali Bin Redha, Project Director for Global Village. “Eid is a very special time for families and visitors to Dubai, and Barney is a perfect choice for family entertainment. Barney is also the main attraction of the Little Big Club, a new children’s entertainment brand which is making its world debut in Global Village. We are hoping the excitement and happiness that Barney creates during Eid-al-Fitr with this show will carry over to his re-introduction at Global Village this year.”
Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer of DSF Office said, “Eid-Al-Fitr is a time when children are given gifts and they are treated to goodies. The Barney Musical is our way of sharing ‘Eid in Dubai’ with the thousands of children celebrating this festive occasion in the city.”
Compiled as a bonanza of colours, song, dance and creative learning, Barney’s Musical Castle is another feather in the cap for ‘Eid in Dubai’, the new initiative by the Dubai Shopping Festival Office.
Created in 1987 by former teacher, Sheryl Leach, Barney has enjoyed a large fan following. He is a 200-million year old, lovable, huggable T-rex who encourages sharing, caring, imagining, dancing and learning. He springs from a child’s imagination and encourages his friends to go and grow as they explore exciting places. He encourages positive values and good manners for children everywhere. His arrival in Dubai at the time of Eid will indeed delight the children who already enjoy his shows and songs on television. Other popular characters will accompany Barney from his show, including Baby Bop and BJ, both introduced to his team in the early 90s.
Join Barney on a new musical adventure to a faraway castle with flags, trumpets and knights in shining armour. Barney, Baby Bop and BJ have found a lost crown in the Enchanted Forest and must return it to the King. Joined by children and animal friends, the dinos make their way to the king’s castle – a memorable visit featuring dancing, singing and a colorful costume parade.
Targeted at children and families, the Barney''s Musical Castle Show will incorporate elements of the popular television series, Barney & Friends to present an edutainment show that will appeal to all this Eid.
National Bonds is the founder sponsor of ‘Eid in Dubai’ and the event is supported by wasl, the asset management group owned by Dubai Real Estate Corporation. ARY Exclusive, Dubai Festival City, Emirates airline, and Dubai World Trade Centre are the key sponsors. The Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG) and the Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group (DGJG) will also be associated with ‘Eid in Dubai’.
International artists Strings, Shaan & Overload to perform together. ARY Exclusive, one of its kind loyalty card by the renowned ARY Group presents SANGAMConcert in association with du and Dubai Shopping Festival Office as part of the Eid celebrations and EID in Dubai initiative by the Government. The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, Oct 3rd at the Tennis Stadium, Dubai Aviation Club. International artists such Shaan, Bollywood’s numero uno singing sensation; Strings-internationally acclaimed and immensely popular Pakistani pop band and Overload, a rage in Pakistan and the latest percussion sensation will enthrall Dubai with their astonishing performances. The opening act will be done by an upcoming local Dubai band 2live.
On the event, Mr. Yousuf Mubarak, Chief Operations Officer, Dubai Shopping Festival Office said, “The DSF Office strives to organize a wide spectrum of events for visitors and residents and the Sangam concert is very much in line with our aim of catering to a diverse range of audiences. This event is our way of sharing and spreading the festive feeling of ‘Eid in Dubai’ throughout the city, especially since it hosts a multi-cultural society.”
Speaking on the event, Mr. Mohammed Iqbal, Vice-Chairman & CEO of ARY Group said, “Sangam is an extension of our ongoing EIDIYAH promotion by ARY Exclusive wherein customers are entitled to get anywhere from a guaranteed 20 % to 100 % value back on purchasing from ARY or our brand partner outlets. We want people to enjoy and live the spirit of EID and Sangam will certainly provide them a great experience”. “Our aim is to have a good show and total entertainment for audiences; all the artists we are bringing in are internationally acclaimed and very popular. The tickets are priced at Dhs. 150, Dhs. 250 and Dhs. 500, however in actual it will be free of cost as tickets will have coupons of the face value which can be redeemed at ARY jewelry and brand partner outlets hence 100 % Eidiyah with an opportunity to watch this magnanimous concert”, added Mr. Arjun Kumar, General Manager Marketing & Events – ARY Exclusive card. “du is committed to changing the way people communicate, bringing them together through common interests. We are pleased to be associated with Sangam which aims to bring communities together, as we all get ready to celebrate Eid.” said Farid Faraidooni, EVP Commercial, du.
As the holy month of Ramadan begins to unwind and EID approaches, a time for family and reflection become the priority. To celebrate its first EID, Dubai’s premier luxury hotel, The Monarch Dubai, is offering a special rate for guests to best experience the atmosphere of this special time of year.
The special EID rate offers guests the unique experience of staying in one of the hotel’s beautiful Arabian influenced contemporary deluxe rooms or suites from only AED 899++ per room per night.
Additional services of the EID package include a 15 percent discount on all F & B services, Laundry, telephone and the Mandara Spa. Unique to The Monarch Dubai, guests will also be treated to a 24 hour butler service.
Note: This special rate must be booked and used on or before October 5, 2008.
Elegant designs from UK’s leading luxury footwear retailer to dazzle DFW’s ramps. Kurt Geiger, the leading luxury footwear retailer from the UK will showcase its Autumn Winter collection on the 8th of October during a 30 minute stand alone show at the prestigious forthcoming Dubai Fashion Week. Known for its chic sophistication and modern elegance, Kurt Geiger has ruled the luxury designer market in the UK for several decades.
Gerry Prete, Brand Manager of Kurt Geiger franchise in Dubai said, “We are proud to be invited as the official associate partner of Dubai Fashion Week. Kurt Geiger’s Autumn Winter collection will feature the hottest designs for the coming season. This exclusive collection is being specially flown in for the prestigious trade event. It is a matter of great excitement for us that Kurt Geiger’s special collection will hit the ramps of DFW for the first time. To create further enthusiasm for viewers and the media, we have arranged a prelude to the event where the designer pieces will be displayed in an innovative style.”
While bringing regional and international buyers and designers face to face during its four-day event, Dubai Fashion Week provides an excellent platform to the fashion industry to meet and create productive business links. Added Gerry: “Dubai Fashion Week does a great service to the fashion trade in the region and is sure to go from strength to strength in the coming years.”
The Fireworks During Eid In Dubai Will Be Among The Most Sophisticated And Will Illuminate The City’s Night Sky ‘Eid in Dubai’, the new initiative organized by Dubai Shopping Festival Office along with National Bonds, will witness a colourful first edition through a spectacular fireworks display that will be held during celebrations to mark Eid-Al-Fitr. Dubai Festival City, a key sponsor of ‘Eid in Dubai’ and a member of the Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG), will host the fireworks display that will last for 25 minutes, starting at 8pm on all three days. The fireworks have been specially designed to celebrate the first edition of ‘Eid in Dubai’. Mohammed Ali Al Kamli, Senior Sponsorship Coordinator at Dubai Shopping Festival said, “The fireworks during ‘Eid in Dubai’ will be among the most sophisticated and will illuminate the city’s night sky. Taking into account the spirit of Eid-Al-Fitr, the display will be around 25 minutes long and we would like every visitor to remember the first edition of ‘Eid in Dubai’ as a colourful one.” The fireworks will be launched from the Festival Centre promenade at Dubai Festival City that is also hosting the Eid District. The promenade will be open to all visitors who can catch a glimpse of the spectacle. ‘Eid in Dubai’ is organized by the Dubai Shopping Festival Office in cooperation with National Bonds, the founder sponsor. The event is also supported by wasl, the asset management group owned by Dubai Real Estate Corporation, with ARY Exclusive, Dubai Festival City, Emirates and Dubai World Trade Centre as key sponsors, and in association with Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG) and Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group.
The Newly Launched Dubai Government Initiative Eid In Dubai Has Been Very Well Received By The Private Sector In Dubai
The newly launched Dubai Government initiative, “Eid in Dubai”, has been very well received by the private sector in Dubai. The Dubai Shopping Festival Office revealed recently that “Eid in Dubai”, organised by the Office, has attracted major entities from the private sector to sponsor the initiative.
Organised in collaboration with National Bonds as a founder sponsor, supported by Wasl, the asset management group owned by Dubai real-estate corporation (DREC), the “Eid in Dubai” initiative is also sponsored by ARY Jewellery, Emirates, Dubai Festival City and Dubai World Trade Centre, in association with Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG) and Dubai Gold and Jewellery Group (DGJG).
Laila Suhail, CEO, DSF Office, hailed the great response from a wide range of companies and establishments in the private sector, stressing that it comes as no surprise as the private sector in Dubai has always lent its support to government oriented initiatives.
“Dubai Shopping festival and Dubai Summer surprises are two perfect examples of success stories for a unique Government-Private sector cooperation, “Eid in Dubai” will complement this solid partnership. This initiative addresses a huge segment of the population in Dubai thus making it a perfect platform for any establishment to reach out to its target audience,” she said.
Mohammad Qasim Al Ali CEO, National Bonds “National Bonds is proud to associate itself with ‘Eid in Dubai’, an initiative of the Dubai Shopping Festival Office, as a founder sponsor. Given the immense success of the Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer Surprises since 1996, we are confident that ‘Eid in Dubai’ will attract a large audience from around the world and soon become an important part of Dubai’s calendar of festive events. National Bonds has committed towards a three year strategic alliance with Dubai Shopping Festival Office until the year 2010.”
Alya Al Mutawa, General Manager- Marketing and Corporate Communications, wasl. “As part of our corporate social responsibility programme, wasl is committed to participating in events that significantly enrich our communities and underscore our deep-rooted values. In keeping with this philosophy, we are delighted to collaborate with the Dubai Shopping Festival Office to organize the inaugural ‘Eid in Dubai’ event. Through this initiative, we also aim to elevate the festive spirit during Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha celebrations.”
“Our sponsorship of this event is an extension of our support to the Ramadan campaign, which is designed to foster greater communication and increased interaction among various sections of the society.”
Tom Miles, Senior General Manger Retail, Dubai Festival City “Dubai Festival City is proud to be a key sponsor of the inaugural ‘Eid in Dubai’ Festival. Dubai Festival City has always played an important part in the development and promotion of Dubai’s major Festivals (Dubai Summer Surprises and Dubai Shopping Festival) and continues to support Government initiatives to position Dubai as a world-renowned retail and tourism destination.
With Dubai Festival City being a key sponsor of “Eid in Dubai”, Festival Centre becomes the hub of celebrations, hosting the first ‘Eid in Dubai’ opening ceremony, together with a variety of cultural displays and performances over three days.”
Majid Al Mualla, Emirates Vice President, Commercial Sales, UAE, "Dubai Government’s tourism initiatives have always been strategic, carefully designed and have had tremendous success in boosting tourism to the city. Emirates fully supports the new retail and entertainment initiative ’Eid in Dubai’ and will align our operations to support the objectives of the government and the programme."
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, DWTC “Eid in Dubai will play an important role in enabling further development of the tourism sector , by providing a unique offering during the Eid celebrations, further establishing Dubai as an unmatched year-round tourist destination,” said DWTC Director General Helal Saeed Almarri. “Supporting such events is in complete alignment with our vision to make Dubai the leading destination for all major exhibitions, conferences and events as per the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015.”
Mr. Praveen Chandiramani,COO - ARY EXCLUSIVE “Eid-Al-Fitr is a festival of sharing and giving and we are extremely delighted to be part of this fantastic initiative by the Dubai Government. Eid is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts and by way of our EIDIYAH promotion we are able to live the true spirit of EID”.
Grand prize winner to be announced by October 12, 2008 du, the integrated telecom operator in the UAE has announced the grand prize of the popular SMS Ramadan Challenge. The winner will get a travel voucher worth AED 50,000 for two people to any destination of choice as offered by the Al Tayer Travel Agency. The voucher includes both travel and accommodation. The name of the winner will be announced by Oct 12, 2008 at the end of the competition. The grand prize will be given to the person who is the first to answer maximum number of questions correctly in the shortest response time. The winner will also get a certificate of appreciation from du. Farid Faraidooni, EVP Commercial, du, said: “The door is now open for all participants to put in their best efforts and claim the grand prize. We are sure that the response to the competition will further go up and exceed our expectations, as it has so far. I would like to thank everyone for their enthusiasm and wish all participants the very best.” Now in its third week, the du SMS Ramadan Challenge has drawn more than 1.8 million SMS hits with participation from over 50,000 du customers. Every week the top scorer gets free du talk-time worth AED 5,500 while 55 other winners each receive free talk-time worth AED 550. For the week ending 13 September, the top scorer is an Indian national Ms Aisha Tanvir. Ms. Aisha Tanvir, the second week winner, said: “It feels great to be the winner. I would like to thank du for presenting this wonderful Quiz during the month of Ramadan. The questions are well suited for the occasion.” Another winner, Abdul Jawad Zakariya, an Egyptian, said: “Honestly I did not expect to win this quiz. I found it challenging and now I feel my efforts have paid off. I am really very happy to win this. Thank you du.” The competition which is designed to test du customers’ knowledge of Ramadan, the Arabic language and UAE culture has weekly and grand prizes to be won, in addition to free credits for every correct answer. For every ten questions played, du customers receive a bonus of 10 fils.
Sony PlayStation Middle East has launched its new PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) with an extended memory of 80 GB. This new product will become the mainstay of the company’s hardware line-up.
The new model not only offers an extended storage memory but also continues what the previous 40GB offered in terms of a complete entertainment system comprising the highest quality games and films on Blu-ray, as well as the ability to download exclusive content, play games online and access the internet at any time through an integrated Wi-Fi connection.
Commenting on this new addition to the PlayStation family, Tim Stokes, Sales and Marketing Director commented: “Having studied closely our customers’ gaming habits and requests, we have provided them with our new PS 3 80GB model offering the same features and functionality of the previous 40 GB model. Our entertainment enthusiasts can now enjoy double the storage to accommodate more games, movies, graphics, music, photos and a diversity of other content.”
The multi-functionality of the 80GB PS3, combined with an incredible number of exclusive first and third-party titles, as well as PLAYSTATION®Network, makes PS3 a comprehensive entertainment value designed to appeal to a wide range of consumers from hard-core gamers to general entertainment enthusiasts.
The PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) 80GB alone will be priced at RRP AED 1799, and at RRP Dhs 1949 as a bundle with two games.
Ramadan Fair is a multi-product consumer and full fledged retail and wholesale event, www.ramadanfair.com helping companies capitalise on the market buoyancy during the festive season of Ramadan and Eid holidays, last fair attracted over 117,000 visitors from across the Middle East countries.
Highlights:
CAR RAFFLE AS GRAND PRIZE .GIFTS HAMPERS ON PURCHASE, FUN RIDES AND AMUSEMENTS
Visitor's Profile:
Visitors - END USERS, CONSUMERS, BULK BUYERS, TRADE BUYERS, Importers, Agents, Wholesalers, Distributors, Major retailers, corporate gift companies, Home Furnishings and Interior Design, Gifts, Games, Hobbies, and Toys & General Public are the target visitors.
Exhibitor's Profile:
Profile for exhibit include MANUFACTURERS, WHOLE SELLER, RETAILERS, SOLE DISTRIBUTERS, AGENTS, DEALERS, PROMOTION COMPANIES, AGENCY HOLDERS, PRINCIPLE SUPPLIERS, FOODSTUFF/SHOES/ FASHION GARMENTS/ FASHION JEWELLERY/BAGS /HOME FURNITURE /HOME TEXTILE / FABRICS /ELECTRONICS/PERFUMES COSMETICS ETC.
Start from: 9/15/2008 End Date: 10/2/2008 Venue: Expo Centre Sharjah
Dubai: The Minister of Economy on Monday inaugurated the third session of Hunar Art Gallery's Arabic calligraphy exhibition entitled "Rhythm of the Pen".
The show, displays over 50 selected art works of 16 renowned contemporary Muslim calligraphers from the UAE, Egypt, Iraq, Iran Qatar, Tunisia, Syria, Morocco and France. The works have been made using ink, water colours, oil, ceramic and acrylic.
The event aims to demonstrate the beauty and power of the Arabic language as well as to recognise and promote the achievements of Muslims in the field of art. The display, which features single alphabets, Quranic verses and poetry written in classical and modern ways, will run until October 8.
Great civilisation
Speaking to Gulf News, Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, said: "This exhibition, which involves the creative expertise of our artists, indicates how great the Islamic civilisation was and shall be and the extent to which it has contributed to the development of other cultures. The beauty of the various styles of Arabic writings also captivates the heart and minds of many non-Arabic speakers and non-Muslims."
The minister noted that there is need for such events and said he hoped the exhibition will create harmony and a culture of understanding between the Islamic and other societies. "Since the UAE has attracted many people of various nationalities, perhaps it can act as a gateway to promote our artists' talents."
Also present at the opening ceremony was the Deputy Head of Korean Mission, Keejong Chung. For him, the works created emotional and peaceful feelings.
Magali Moulin, a French teacher at Emirates International School, said that she was impressed by the intricacy visible in the art pieces."Although I don't understand the Arabic language, I can still sense that they provide some kind of a strong message. I also like that sometimes the curves within the letters make them look like pictures," she added.
Hunar Art Gallery will be open from 9am to 12pm throughout the week and from 4pm to 9pm on Fridays. The gallery is housed in villa no. 6 in Green Coast Village, near Airport Tunnel, in Rashidiya.
Makkah: The squares within and outside the Holy Mosque of Makkah witness in Ramadan the biggest iftar in the world.
More than 12,000 metres of tablecloth are stretched daily for iftar along the Mosque area for worshippers to end their fast.
Officials in charge of the iftar in the Holy Mosque say its daily cost amounts to about one million Saudi riyals (Dh982,200).
Iftar does not take more than 15 minutes - from the time that people stretch the tablecloths out to the clearing of the remaining food.
The area where people take iftar is cleaned as fast as possible in order to leave room for people to perform Maghreb prayers.
The meal is served by various benefactors who are assisted by cleaning boys.
The Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques Affairs divided the squares around the Holy Mosque into various sections and assigned them to charity givers willing to provide iftar for worshippers.
Iftar offered by these benefactors are made of dates, juice, milk, and cakes.
Dates and Zam Zam water are served first before iftar.
Millions of dates
The number of dates consumed daily by worshippers in the Holy Mosque is estimated to be more than 5 million.
With about 1.2 million worshippers attending Maghreb prayers in the Holy Mosque, that huge number still only equates to three dates per person.
In the meantime, more than two million bottles of Zam Zam water are consumed by worshippers during iftar.
In the Tawaf area inside the Holy Mosque, the iftar tablecloths are not stretched until the last moment in order not to block the way for worshippers who want to finish the Tawaf rituals before Maghreb prayers.
Iftar inside the Mosque differ from that served in the outside squares.
It is not allowed to bring any food other than dates and coffee into the Holy Mosque to maintain the cleanliness of the Haram area.
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