Summer surprises in Dubai

Fancy a getaway with a difference? Tired of wearing woolly winter warmers? Then pack up your bathing costume, sunglasses and sun block and head for Dubai.

Dubai is hosting its annual Dubai Summer Surprises until August 31 2001.The theme for this year is "Big Fun for Little Ones" and there is much entertainment and many fun activities to be enjoyed by all ages.

The Dubai Summer Surprises was created by the Dubai government to give children and families of the world an unforgettable summer holiday in Dubai.

It's a time when shopping malls are decorated in a festive manner and throw open their doors to offer stunning goods for sale. Entertainers, musicians, street performers and clowns enthral and entertain children and also offered are the fantastic deals and thrills for which Dubai is famous.

The many varied festival themes are designed to keep visitors to the Emirate busy and include:

* Water Surprises (July 12 to 18)

* Global Surprises (July 19 to 25)

* Flower Surprises (July 19 to August 1)

* Art Surprises (August 2 to 8)

* Sport Surprises (August 9 to 15)

* Heritage Surprises (August 16 to 22)

* Back-2-School Surprises (August 23 to 31)

All events are held in air-conditioned shopping malls and entertainment centres and will offer surprisingly affordable and fun-filled activities in which visitors can participate.

Dubai comes to life over this time, as many European visitors flock to the Emirate for their annual summer holiday. Although this time is the low season in Dubai, as a result of the heat, you can take advantage of low prices and air-conditioned venues to experience the ultimate in sun-filled and activity-packed winter getaways.

During this time, hotels, restaurants and services apartments are offering excellent value and discounts.

For further information contact the Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

- INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPERS (SOUTH AFRICA)