Leading business entities come out in support of 'Eid in Dubai' as DSF Office announces sponsors

Dubai Festival City, Emirates airline, Dubai World Trade Centre, MasterCard, Plug-ins, and Toys R Us have extended support for the region's first dedicated Eid event that is into its second year.

The involvement of some of the biggest commercial entities in the region is seen as a result of the successful collaboration between DSF Office and the private sector, and also a sign of the confidence shown by this year's sponsors in 'Eid in Dubai' as a triumphant initiative.

Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer of DSF Office thanked the sponsors of 'Eid in Dubai' 2009 - Eid Al Fitr and said that the DSF Office was committed in working together with the private sector in achieving common goals and in positioning Dubai as a leading destination during Eid.

"The idea of an 'Eid in Dubai' celebration was well received in the opening edition in 2008 and the support of private sector entities was a significant reason for its overwhelming success. 'Eid in Dubai' is an attraction for not only local audiences but for visitors from across the region thus giving sponsors an opportunity to reach out to a wider audience. The DSF Office is in close cooperation with the private sector and is committed to supporting sectors such as tourism, retail, and hospitality,"

said Laila.

Dubai Festival City, Plug-ins, and Toys R Us

Charles Awad, Head of Corporate Communications, Al-Futtaim Group said, "In only its second year, 'Eid in Dubai' has greatly enhanced the spirit of this fine city while re-emphasising the fact that over 200 nationalities coexist in exceptional harmony to share festive occasions like these."

"Al-Futtaim, through its award-winning flagship development Dubai Festival City, and through Plug-ins and Toys R Us, recognises the viability of 'Eid in Dubai' 2009 to promote a positive image of the emirate and is once again proud to sponsor this excellent Government-led initiative," he added.

Mr. Awad also stated that all Al-Futtaim partner brands will be very active as 'Eid in Dubai' participants, and Dubai Festival City alongside its shopping and entertainment precinct Festival Centre, will once again play host to some of the finest activities during the event this year.

Emirates

Ahmed Khoory, Emirates' Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Iran said, "Emirates is proud to be a sponsor of this year's 'Eid in Dubai'. Dubai is a diverse, cosmopolitan city known the world over for its incredible development, warm Arabian hospitality and natural beauty. 'Eid in Dubai' is the perfect platform to showcase the distinctive culture and traditions of Dubai and wider region, through a unique mix of entertainment suitable for people of all ages."

"During Eid we expect to see a surge in people from across the region and wider globe visiting Dubai to enjoy the festivities, and celebrate Eid with their friends and family," he added.

Dubai World Trade Centre

Helal Saeed Al Marri, CEO, DWTC said, "Although a new event, 'Eid in Dubai' has become a successful family festivity attracting tourists from across the region. We are delighted to be a sponsor of 'Eid in Dubai' that offers a range of entertainment and gives families a memorable experience in celebrating Eid, especially in locations of DWTC."

MasterCard

"MasterCard is delighted to commemorate the special occasion of Eid with the DSF Office as its longest running sponsor and the Official Payment Card of Dubai Summer Surprises 2009. After the conclusion of yet another successful DSS, we are pleased to collaborate with its organizers to enhance the festivities of 'Eid in Dubai' to ensure that our cardholders are offered exclusive privileges and benefits that will further enrich their experience of celebration," said Denzil Lawson, general manager, Middle East & Levant, MasterCard Worldwide.

"During this Eid season, MasterCard premium card cardholders can also continue to benefit from an enticing range of unique programs covering retail, health and wellness, dining and entertainment, and travel-related benefits," he added.

'Eid in Dubai' 2009 - Eid Al Fitr is just days away with a host of events and activities in store for residents and visitors in Dubai hoping to celebrate Eid in a special way. A spectacular array of highlights lined up for this year include concerts by renowned Arab and Iranian artists, a cartoon musical featuring Barney, an Eid Fun Fair, the 'Eid Celebration District' in Dubai Festival City, and city-wide shopping promotions in malls.

To top it all, residents and visitors will be treated to brilliant fireworks and laser shows during the event along the waterfront at Dubai Festival City.