'Eid in Dubai' launches Eid Al Adha 2012 festivities with message 'United in Celebration'

"Eid in Dubai" events will commence on October 18th, and go on till 2nd November 2012, as the city joins millions of Muslims around the world in celebrating this holy occasion, and welcoming home the return of the pilgrims from Mecca al-Mukarramah after the conclusion of Hajj Season.

The programme of events reflects the new directions issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai, to extend the Eid celebration period, with a special focus on organising and hosting diverse world class activities to enhance the performance of the events and festivals sector in Dubai and maintain the Emirate's regional and international sector leadership.

For two weeks, Dubai will witness a wide spectrum of events and celebrations that embody the values of Eid Al Adha and authentic Emirati traditions. The initiative also reflects the spirit of togetherness, peace and mutual respect the Emirate promotes among its residents. The city's community of more than 200 different nationalities from diverse cultural backgrounds will be encouraged to join hands to celebrate Eid Al Adha in Dubai through the campaign "Eid in Dubai...United in Celebration".

H. E. Laila Mohd Suhail, DEPE CEO, expressed deep gratitude for HH Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashed for his wise vision and continued support in light of his latest directives to extend the celebrations and extend Mall working hours during the celebrations, "HH is always a visionary, his far sighted wisdom always inspires us and provoke us to reach new horizons," H.E. Suhail said.

"Dubai enjoys a unique mixture of more than 200 nationalities that weaves into its community in peace and harmony. Our "Eid in Dubai" campaign invites all the cultures and nationalities to celebrate with us, hence the slogan "United in Celebration," H.E. said.

"This year's celebrations cover a longer period in line with the directions of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. The events will attract audiences from across the country and the malls will open for 24 hours for the first time in its history. This will take place on Thursdays and Fridays during the celebrations whereby the participating malls will open on Thursday 10:00 am and close on the end of their business day Saturday evening. More than 60 hours of consecutive shopping," Suhail added.

From his part, Ibrahim Saleh, Festivals Coordinator General at DEPE, said, "On this special occasion, DEPE is working closely with its partners from the public and private sectors to ensure that Dubai continues its tradition of celebrating holidays and social and spiritual occasions celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world. Eid Al Adha is a prominent event on the Islamic calendar, as it coincides with the conclusion of Hajj Season and the return of pilgrims to their homes. "Eid in Dubai" nurtures the joy of this occasion through a varied and rich programme which appeals to the tastes of families and individuals of all nationalities. The festivities will help to promote the diversity of the Emirate's social fabric, encourage community interaction and create a peaceful and welcoming environment."

Many public and private organisations and businesses will participate in the celebrations in their own way, in addition to major attractions, tourist destinations, malls and shopping centres, that are preparing for the occasion by launching a wide range of events and promotions, designed to make Dubai an oasis of celebrations during the extended festive period.