Eid shoppers throng Ramadan Fair at Expo Centre Sharjah

If the huge turnout is any indication to go by, the show has proved to be a one-stop shop for residents and visitors by providing them all their shopping requirements for the upcoming holidays.

Though figures are not yet available, thousands of Eid shoppers have visited the show so far.

Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, Director-General of Expo Centre Sharjah, said:

"There are several factors that go in favour of the show. Here's a place where everything a family needs for Eid celebrations is available under a single roof."

"Free and ample parking space, accessibility, a wide range of all household items, gifts and jewellery, a choice of several retailers and different makes all help the Ramadan Fair to be the ideal shopping venue for Eid shoppers as well as others," Mr Midfa said.

The show, a supporting event of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, was opened on September 17 and will run until October 2 at Expo Centre Sharjah.

"It is not just the shopping experience that appeals to visitors. Apart from good deals, bargains and new and exciting products, there are unlimited opportunities of entertainment and chances to win great prizes, such as tickets to Thailand," said Mr Midfa.

Entertainment avenues come in the form of Heritage Village, Food Court, and art and craft workshops conducted by the Sharjah Museums Department. "The new additions of Heritage Village and Food Court have proved to be extremely popular, exceeding our expectations," said Mr Midfa.

"Every element of the Heritage Village has been well received by the visitors. Other interesting factor is that even children and youngsters are very keen to enquire about the different aspects of the exhibits at the Village. This is very encouraging to us as the show's organisers," Mr Midfa added.

The free health check-up offered by the Ministry of Health has seen visitors flocking to the counter set up by the Department of Health. Hundreds of visitors have so far benefited from the service.

"I was expecting a negative report for the tests. However, one of the tests turned out to be positive. Thanks to the free service, I have come to know of the problem early enough. Otherwise it would have led to further complications," said Fatma, who didn't give her second name.

Platinum sponsor Vimto Drink is drawing a large number visitors to its counter at the show, where interesting information about the traditional drink enjoyed my millions world over is revealed to the curious-minded.

Established in 1905, the drink has been distributed by Aujan Industries in the Middle East for the past 82 years. The company's well-established brands include Rani, Barbican, Vimto and Hani. Aujan Industries is one of the largest privately owned soft drink and confectionery manufacturer, marketer and distributor in the Middle East based in Saudi Arabia and has a turnover of over $400m.

Visitors who are creatively inclined have been seen crowding at the art and craft workshops. "It is pretty difficult to find such a comprehensive shopping as well as entertainment opportunity where you can shop to your heart's content and at the same time enjoy the entertainment facilities on offer," said Hasina, who was among a group of ladies who were hunting for the best bargains.

The Food Court features Thai, Chinese and Arab restaurants, a fast food joint and a café. "There is great variety on offer," said May Fernando, another visitor. "I will need to visit several times to check out the cuisine on offer at all the outlets," she added.

Other major attractions such as daily raffle draws, a chance to win tickets to Thailand, shopping vouchers and gifts are also attracting hordes of shoppers to the show.

More than 200 exhibitors from Syria, Singapore, Egypt, India, Pakistan, GCC states, and from several other countries from all over the world are showcasing a wide range of household goods at the show.

The exhibits include furniture and décor, jewellery and watches, perfumes, cosmetics, fashion garments, footwear, gift items, electronic appliances, food and beverages, stationery and other related services.

During Ramadan, the show will be open from 8pm to 12.30 midnight, and during Eid it will be open from 4pm to 10.30pm. Entry and parking is free.