Heads of state, ministers and 2000 delegates from 40 countries scheduled to attend desert fiesta

"We are delighted that heads of states and ministers along with VIPs have confirmed their participation at the Dubai event," said Dr. Mohammed bin Fahad, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of Zayed Prize.

The event is being organised by the Zayed Prize in conjunction with the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and World Deserts Foundation.

The heads of states include Presidents from Algeria, Bahrain, Qatar and South Africa.

"Ministers and high ranking officials from Australia, Italy, France, Mexico, USA, Canada, Algeria, South Africa, Egypt, Tanzania, Niger, Gabon, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Morocco, Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan among others will participate in the festival," Dr. bin Fahad confirmed.

A series of scientific programmes, conferences, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, real life demonstrations and documentary films will put the spotlight on "The Cultures & Civilizations of World Deserts" over a one week period.

Desert regions have grown from oblivion into thriving metros in recent times and the Second Festival of The Cultures & Civilizations of World Deserts will trace desert life from the past to the present through to the future.

A full program of workshops, seminars and conferences will enable people to know more about desert life that represents a blend of simplicity and nature and the purity of spirit.

Exhibitions featuring architecture in desert regions, traditional forms of desert medicine, desert literature, folklore and popular arts, dances and poetry will be organised with wide spread participation.

The desert festival has been designed to increase interest in desert cultures and civilizations - its people, history, and economic and social development.

The Second Festival of Cultures & Civilizations of World Deserts will provide an invaluable opportunity for the people of desert regions to meet, exchange and celebrate their rich traditions and showcase them to the world.