DED launches the Back-2-School Surprises activity week 2006

The conference was attended by Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director General for Planning and Development, Sultan Ali Lootah, Head of the Back to School Surprises organising committee and a number of DED senior officials.

"Organising these activities comes as part of DED's continuing efforts to develop and encourage young UAE nationals to expand their skills in various fields, "Mr. Al Kassim said. "These activities encourage our children to seize knowledge in a fun environment, and helps them to look forward to the beginning of the new school year with high spirits." he added.

More than 56 activities will take place in 14 malls and centres across Dubai during the activity week. Events include 14 main event such as the One Million Finger Print, the School Fantasy, a story on each door, Success Stairs (Sulam Al Najah), the Traffic Academy, the School Creativity Fair, the Fun Academy, My School is My priority, the Book Store, the Ancient School, the School Scouts Competition, Back 2 School Fair and the Longest Sketch Book.

"The Back-2-School Surprises week is always an exciting time for children because it usually signals the end of the long summer break, and returning to school. DED has lined up a series of appealing activities that combine education and entertainment, with particular emphasis on situations that children may face at school. The activity week is an event to celebrate and encourage children's desire for knowledge and new experiences," said Mr. Lootah.

The opening ceremony for the Back-2-School Surprises week will be held at Emirates Mall signalling the beginning of several activities that have been lined up at the Ibn Batuta Mall, Reef Mall, City Centre, Hamr Ain, Mercato, Ghurair Centre, Burjuman, Bustan Mall, Bin Suqat, Lamcy Plaza, Kids City, Modhesh Entertainment City and the Dubai Department of Economic Development premises.

The Back 2 School Activity Week is held in partnership with Abu Dhabi National Bank and Al Sayegh Group. It is sponsored by Road and Transport Authority, New Horizon Institute, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Al Yousef Group, Grand Stores, Dubai Commercial Bank, Al Rawabi, Mohammed Sharif and Brothers Stores, Acer, and Khaleej Times as main sponsors.