Dubai, 4th Feb.2010 (WAM) -- H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum opened today activities of the heritage village at The Walk Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), developed by Dubai Properties Group, one of the headline sponsorsof 15th Dubai Shopping Festival.

During the tour, Sheikh Mansour also opened the Heritage Club exhibitionwhich showcasing archaeological artifacts discovered by Vice President and Prime Minister of the and Ruler of Dubai H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

These wide ranging events are being organised in conjunction with Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

DTCM, like the previous years, has utilized the DSF-2010 to showcase Dubais rich past to the present generation of Emiratis and the cosmopolitan population of the emirate.

In order to reach out to more people, the department has included The Walk JBR in Dubai Marina in the list of venues for this years activities.

The Organising Committee for DSF Heritage Events for DSF-2010, said the response to the heritage and cultural events has been overwhelming.

Among the events taking place at The Walk include Emirati traditional mock weddings, Emirati cuisines, handicrafts, folklore dances and costumes. Visitors to the venue are offered traditional Arabic coffee and dates, reflecting the age-old hospitality traditions of the Emiratis.

As they walk through the sprawling venue, visitors are offered the opportunity to learn about various facets of the Emirati culture and traditions which have been preserved despite the country embracing modernity in all walks of life.

Among the programmes being held at The Walk include Banader Al Turath (Heritage Collections Exhibition, Travel Agencies Week, Henna Show, Emirati souq, Emirates Culture Corner, Al Hadher Wedding Ceremony, Bedouin Wedding Ceremony, Youla Shows, Bedouin Handicrafts, Traditional folklore Bands (Al Ayalla/Al Harbiyah/Al Liwa), Arabic calligraphy corner, Traditional games, Heritage Houses, Pearls Exhibition, Camels & Horses Riding and Children Shows and Falconry Show.

DSF, which is in its 15th edition this year, will be having a 32-day run from January 28 to February 28. Dubai Shopping Festival posted impressive visitor and spending figures for its 2009 edition. Around 3.35 million visitors spent approximately AED 9.8 billion during 32 days in DSF 2009.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------For further information, please contact:* Saad El Sayed,Head of Arabic and English Media - Media Relations DivisionEmail: selsayed@dubaitourism.aeOR

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2010.