MasterCard, Emirates Airline and Jumeriah team up for Dubai Summer Surprises 2005

MasterCard, Emirates Airline and Jumeirah are bringing the DSS closer to the international tourist. The alliance of strong international brands, such as MasterCard, demonstrates HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence's vision for the Government of Dubai, DSS and international corporations, with a local presence, working together to make the 2005 DSS the most spectacular to date.

MasterCard has attracted cardholders from the Middle East and beyond to Dubai with its 'Destination Dubai' promotion, which is open to member banks* in eight countries: Russia, Turkey, Pakistan, Lebanon, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These banks are running several promotions for the duration of the Dubai Summer Surprises and their MasterCard card users will have an opportunity to win free travel packages to Dubai courtesy of Emirates Airline and Jumeirah.

Thomas Edelmann, vice president, Strategic Alliances and Business Development, MasterCard International, Middle East and North Africa said, "Over the years, Dubai Summer Surprises has developed into a customer focused event that attracts resident families as well tourists from across the globe looking to enjoy Dubai's sunshine, a range of wholesome entertainment, shopping benefits and great bargains. Our promotions during the summer season retain a strong element of excitement and create a high level of anticipation amongst participants.

"In addition, we are delighted to offer such a great promotion to our member banks and their own campaigns have touched over 1 million MasterCard cardholders. This year is the first year that MasterCard has rolled out its DSS promotion across the Middle East, North Africa and into Pakistan, Turkey and Russia."

Said Saeed Al Nabouda, DSS CEO, "The participation of MasterCard in DSS as a key sponsor for the sixth year running shows the trust multinational companies place in the summer event. Their role in this year's Dubai Shopping Malls Group promotion is a significant reminder of the role that the private sector and multinational companies can play in the economic development of the UAE. MasterCard's participation attracts visitors from the Middle East, North Africa and beyond. We look forward to a long inning and more promotions with them in the future," he said.