Kids thrilled to be in the company of Modhesh

Dubai, July 4, 2004: With the Dubai Summer Surprises 2004 providing the best of entertainment and fun activities to one and all, the number of families visiting Dubai from different countries has witnessed a sharp increase. The Dubai International Airport, one of the entry points to the city, is abuzz with activity at all times with families from the GCC countries visiting Dubai to be a part of the festivities of the 'Big Fun for Little Ones' theme, anticipating in excitement the events, promotions and activities in the shopping malls and the biggest DSS attraction, the Modhesh Fun City. 

A majority of the families arriving at the airport find that having their children involved in the various activities of DSS is also a wonderful learning opportunity, apart from the fun that they have. The themed weeks are carefully crafted and planned so as to maximise the enjoyment as well as inculcate skills, talent or understanding that will be an asset in the formative years of the child.

Mr. Jamil Abdullah, who arrived with his family from Jeddah, is all praise for the activities showcased during DSS every year. Though Mr. Abdullah is a frequent visitor to Dubai because of his business interests here, he has brought his children to the city for the first time, to partake of all the activities in store during the extravaganza.

Mr. Abdullah's children - eight-year-old Abdulraham, a student of 3rd Grade, and six-year-old Zainab, a 1st Grade student -- are visiting Dubai for the first time. Planning to stay here for one week, the kids are thrilled because they now have a chance to meet Modhesh, the ever-smiling mascot of DSS.

Zainab, who has some books on Modhesh, loves to colour them and be in his company. "We cannot express in words how happy we are to be in Dubai during DSS, and we are very keen to go to the Modhesh Fun City because of its diverse attractions," the kids said in unison.

For Mr. Daniel Bokelman and his wife Julie, who hail from USA, Dubai is like their second home, because they have lots of relatives here. Arriving with their kids Naya (2.5 years) and 14-month-old Hannah, they are thrilled to be in Dubai for DSS. The couple said Dubai is a vibrant place and a great family location. "During DSS, it becomes all the more special," they said.

The little Naya kept on looking for Modhesh at the airport. "I simply love him and I want to meet him," she said with a smile.

Mr. Abdullah Al Enzi, who arrived from Kuwait along with his wife Haifa and kids Wa'ad, Fatma, Khalid and Bandar, is very happy to be in Dubai during the shopping and retail extravaganza. Planning to be here for seven days, this is his family's maiden trip to the city.

They fell in love with the city right from the word go. Mr. Abdullah has also set his priorities right. "Well, I am going to try my luck in the various raffles in store during DSS while Haifa is planning to go all out for shopping. For the kids, of course, they are going after Modhesh and the Modhesh Fun City," he said.

Mr. Jaafar Al Haidari from Bahrain has been in Dubai on numerous occasions. Coming to Dubai along with his wife Reema and kids Ali (7.5 years) and eight-month-old Salman, Mr. Al Haidari is planning to stay here for four days.

Ali, in particular was thrilled to be in Dubai, because it would be the first time he would get an opportunity to meet Modhesh. Reema has already finalised her shopping list during the stay.

"Well, there's the catch. With so much shopping avenues in store, you know where I stand.... this trip is going to burn a hole in my pockets, though I am prepared for it," said Mr. Al Haidari jokingly.

Dubai Summer Surprises 2004 is currently in the Sweets Surprises, which is being organised by Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing till July 7, followed by Cartoon Surprises by Dubai Ports Authority from July 8-14, Flower Surprises by Dubai Municipality from July 15-21, Heritage Surprises by Dubai Customs from July 22-28, Adventure Surprises by Dubai Police from July 29-August 4, Knowledge Surprises by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry from August 5-11, Back-2-School Surprises by the Department of Economic Development from August 12-18 and ends with the Colour Surprises by the Department of Health and Medical Sciences from August 19-27, 2004.

-Ends-

For further information, please contact
Hessah Sultan Aurbaya,
Corporate Communication Coordinator,
Dubai Summer Surprises
Tel: +971-4-202 0510;
Fax: +971-4-222 1110
Email: haurbaya@mydsf.gov.ae

© Press Release 2004