Dubai, Sharjah ready for summer visitors 

(MENAFN - Arab News) Sharjah and Dubai are ready for summer visitors with attractions and various events at different shopping malls across the country.

Sharjah already started its summer surprises on May 31 and the events will run through July 17. Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE) has scheduled its Dubai Summer Surprises from June 14 to July 14.

Mohamed Ali Al-Noman, chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, said Sharjah is expecting huge gains and growth during this summer, in addition to a six percent increase in hotel occupancy.

Al-Noman hopes that the recent Sharjah road shows in several Gulf states and showcasing of the emirate at the Riyadh Travel Fair recently, would help attract more visitors from Gulf and Arab countries.

The summer surprise events are currently taking place in malls, shopping centers, traditional souqs, hotels and amusement parks across Sharjah. "With modern shopping malls, traditional souqs, luxurious hotels, family entertainment facilities and 19 museums, visitors to Sharjah can spend a truly rewarding summer holiday in the emirate," Al-Noman added.
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) have planned more than 100 shows and activities for the 31 days.

DSS 2012 will feature various signature events, at different malls in the city, such as World of Stories, Kids Fashion Week, Min Bladi Al-Emarat and the Sheila and Abaya Fashion Show. Kids can look forward to eight popular international stage cartoon shows such as The Smurfs, Barbie, Hello Kitty, Sponge Bob, Charlie and Lola, Ice Age and Teletubbies.

"Last year, Dubai played host to four million visitors and raked in visitor spending of nearly AED 90 billion, Laila Suhail, CEO of DEPE, told a recent press conference.