Dubai is gearing up for the annual summer surprises beginning on June 20.
Organisers of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) have announced more than 250 events to attract residents and visitors to the emirate during the festivities which continue until August 30. Government departments are involved in organising 10 weeks of DSS 2002 in 10 different themes, which will cost Dh65 million ($17.7 million). "This year, more than 250 outstanding activities are organised by departments for families with children. Each activity will match the theme's requirement of 'Big Fun for Little Ones,'" said DSS chief executive Saeed Mohammed Al Nabouda. The opening week of DSS 2002 will be dedicated to Food Surprises. It has about 60 events from June 20 to 26. Water Surprises will be held in the second. It will include special events such as the Water Bubbles Show and the Artificial Rains this year. Global Surprises will highlight the festival traditions of the world, including those from Brazil, Spain, the US, China, the UK, India, Russia and a few Arab countries. Ice Surprises will include a theatrical performance on ice, Sindbad's Adventure in Gulf Countries, Journey to the Eskimo Land, and several interactive events. Flower Surprises, from July 18 to 24, will bring the fragrance of flowers at different venues across Dubai, such as the Summer Camp, which will take place at Modhesh Fun City. Sports Surprises will offer beach volleyball, telematches, marathons, waiters' race, mothers' races, skating competitions, treasure hunts and beach games. This will be followed by Heritage Surprises highlighting the UAE's culture. Art Surprises will feature crafts and activities for different age groups. Techno Surprises will combine aspects of high technology with elements of fun, so that visitors and residents can explore the world of high technology and science in shopping malls and other indoor venues. Back-to-School Surprises from August 22 to 30 will offer special events dedicated to education through fun. Nine key sponsors will support Dubai Summer Surprises 2002 to be held under 10 different themes until August 30. It is being organised by the government of Dubai for the fifth year in a row.