Dishdasha (Creative Commons / Mary Paulose)

There is always a big question mark whenever the topic of traditional clothing in United Arab Emirates crops up. Other than Islam followers, not many are aware of the Arabic style of clothing typical to Muslim culture. With the exception of Dubai, remaining Emirates in UAE are conservative to their style of dressing and to a certain extent strictly adopt what modesty in Islamic text offers.

Dubai attracts many outsiders as tourists and expats, thus keeping its clothing styles lenient. Although western style of dressing such as t-shirts, long skirts and trousers is permitted, women are expected to keep their skin covered. To sum it up, anything and everything goes as long as you remember that you are in progressive yet Islamic Emirate.

Islamic / Traditional Clothing are styled in context with what is to be worn during the day, in the night and for religious occasions. The designs of the clothes have been adapted to the local hot weather and the religious beliefs of the region. Following is a list of the traditional clothing worn by men and women in UAE:

Abaya: The Abaya is a long elegant cloak worn by women in the UAE, where it is their national dress. Traditionally black in colour, it covers the whole body except the face, feet and hands and therefore some women prefer to team it up with the niqāb and Gafaaz to cover up the face and hands as well.

Agal

Agal: An Agal, also called as iqal, egal or igal is a black band secured tightly around the ghutrah to keep it in place. Usually in black in colour, the Agal is losing its prominence these days with  young men draping the guthra in different ways.

Burqa: The Burqa or burkha, burka, burqua is an outer piece of clothing used to cover a woman’s body to prevent exposure of skin in public. The Burqa is removed when the women returns to her house in the company of her family members. It is worn over daily attire and is more common among the older generation.

Kandura: Also known as thawb, thobe, or dishdasha, the Kandura is an ankle length, loose-fitting robe for men, usually white in colour. In winter, the Kandura is available in a splash of colours mostly in darker shades. The length of the robe represents the status of the person with the wealthy and royal seen in longer robes. Shorter length symbolizes modesty and is worn by the remaining Arabs.

Gishwa: UAE women dress traditionally in a Gishwa, which is thin veil covering the face whereby it is unrecognizable. However, it is fine enough for the wearer to see through.

Ghutrah: A typical headscarf worn by men, the ghutrah is also known by the name of keffiyeh/kufiya, or shemagh in other Arabic countries. Made from square cloth of cotton in chequered patterns, it is draped over the head in various styles. In dry climates, these scarves provide protection from blowing dust and harsh rays of the sun.

Ghafiyah: The ghafiyah is a look-alike of a Muslim prayer hat worn below the ghutrah headscarf by Arabic men. They are intricately embroidered and not visible to the naked eye as it is covered by the ghutrah.

AP Photo/Muhammed Muheisen

2010 Ramadan Prayer Times in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Ramadan	Aug/Sept	Day	Fajr (Dawn)	Shorook (Sunrise)	Zuhr (Noon)	Asr (Afternoon)	Maghrib (Sunset)	Isha (Night)
1	08/11/2010	Wed	4:28:00	5:51:00	12:24:00	3:53:00	6:57:00	8:19:00
2	08/12/2010	Thu	4:29:00	5:51:00	12:24:00	3:53:00	6:57:00	8:18:00
3	08/13/2010	Fri	4:30:00	5:51:00	12:24:00	3:52:00	6:56:00	8:17:00
4	08/14/2010	Sat	4:30:00	5:52:00	12:24:00	3:52:00	6:55:00	8:16:00
5	08/15/2010	Sun	4:31:00	5:52:00	12:23:00	3:52:00	6:54:00	8:15:00
6	08/16/2010	Mon	4:32:00	5:53:00	12:23:00	3:52:00	6:53:00	8:14:00
7	08/17/2010	Tue	4:32:00	5:53:00	12:23:00	3:52:00	6:52:00	8:13:00
8	08/18/2010	Wed	4:33:00	5:54:00	12:23:00	3:52:00	6:51:00	8:12:00
9	08/19/2010	Thu	4:34:00	5:54:00	12:23:00	3:52:00	6:51:00	8:11:00
10	08/20/2010	Fri	4:34:00	5:55:00	12:22:00	3:51:00	6:50:00	8:10:00
11	08/21/2010	Sat	4:35:00	5:55:00	12:22:00	3:51:00	6:49:00	8:09:00
12	08/22/2010	Sun	4:35:00	5:55:00	12:22:00	3:51:00	6:48:00	8:08:00
13	08/23/2010	Mon	4:36:00	5:56:00	12:22:00	3:51:00	6:47:00	8:07:00
14	08/24/2010	Tue	4:37:00	5:56:00	12:21:00	3:51:00	6:46:00	8:05:00
15	08/25/2010	Wed	4:37:00	5:57:00	12:21:00	3:50:00	6:45:00	8:04:00
16	08/26/2010	Thu	4:38:00	5:57:00	12:21:00	3:50:00	6:44:00	8:03:00
17	08/27/2010	Fri	4:38:00	5:57:00	12:20:00	3:50:00	6:43:00	8:02:00
18	08/28/2010	Sat	4:39:00	5:58:00	12:20:00	3:50:00	6:42:00	8:01:00
19	08/29/2010	Sun	4:39:00	5:58:00	12:20:00	3:49:00	6:41:00	8:00:00
20	08/30/2010	Mon	4:40:00	5:59:00	12:20:00	3:49:00	6:40:00	7:59:00
21	08/31/2010	Tue	4:40:00	5:59:00	12:19:00	3:49:00	6:39:00	7:57:00
22	09/01/2010	Wed	4:41:00	5:59:00	12:19:00	3:48:00	6:38:00	7:56:00
23	09/02/2010	Thu	4:42:00	6:00:00	12:19:00	3:48:00	6:37:00	7:55:00
24	09/03/2010	Fri	4:42:00	6:00:00	12:18:00	3:47:00	6:36:00	7:54:00
25	09/04/2010	Sat	4:43:00	6:01:00	12:18:00	3:47:00	6:35:00	7:53:00
26	09/05/2010	Sun	4:43:00	6:01:00	12:18:00	3:47:00	6:34:00	7:52:00
27	09/06/2010	Mon	4:44:00	6:01:00	12:17:00	3:46:00	6:33:00	7:50:00
28	09/07/2010	Tue	4:44:00	6:02:00	12:17:00	3:46:00	6:32:00	7:49:00
29	09/08/2010	Wed	4:45:00	6:02:00	12:17:00	3:45:00	6:31:00	7:48:00

Muslims break their fast with Iftar, the Ramadan evening meal in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)

The religious month of Ramadan is marked by fasting and prayer and holds great importance for Islam followers. During this month Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, sex and other vices from sunrise to sunset to achieve higher levels of patience, spirituality and humility. Dubai being a pre-dominantly Muslim populated Emirate; the significance of the religious month can be experienced in all spheres of daily life whether in social, business, entertainment and cultural aspects. Working hours and lifestyles change and in totality the whole city transforms into a more serene mood of religious commitment. Dusk follows the breaking of the fast known as Iftar after which various Ramadan related events are held at social meeting venues. A Non-Muslim is not expected to follow the religious practices during Ramadan; however he is surely counted upon to respect the sentiments of participating Muslims.

People pass by an Islamic exhibition set up for the holy month of Ramadan at the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (AP / Kamran Jebreili)

To avoid offending the sentiments of Muslims one must be alert of their behavior during the month.  Here are some tips for Non-Muslims to be followed during the month of Ramadan

• In public places, behave and dress in a conservative manner to respect the religious observances followed during Ramadan. Women should avoid wearing short skirts and cover their knees. It is appreciated if they wear long sleeves.
• It is illegal to consume meat, drink or smoke in public and if found guilty it could lead to serious consequences. Even chewing gum is seen as an offence. Most restaurants will be closed during the day, but hotels will have contained spaces to serve food. Supermarkets and malls remain open during the day assuming no food or drink is consumed in public.
• Children, pregnant women, medically unfit people, and those fighting in the battle are not expected to fast.
• Greet Muslims by saying ‘Ramadan Kareem’ or ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ during Ramadan
• Be polite enough to attend an Iftar meal. Check local newspaper and TV channels for Iftar meal timings that change by one minute every day.
• Live music is barred, thus avoid functions in noisy environments whether at home or office, including dance clubs.
• Working hours are shorter during Ramadan. Government offices close at 2 pm while private sector office practices work for two hours less.
• Practice some charitable work by donating money, etc to the needy.

Restaurants for Non-Muslims available in Dubai during Ramadan

Many Non-Muslims find it difficult to locate restaurants that serve during the day. Here a list that may be of some help

• Supermarket that serve ready to go meals such as pies, salads, sandwiches, snacks etc
• Take away from fast food outlets of Burger King and McDonalds
• Limited outlets of Coffee shops and Cafes
• Restaurants, food outlets and coffee shops at Dubai Airport, Dubai Festival City, Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Village, Dubai Media City
• Takeaways at Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Batuta Mall and the Dubai Mall
• International cuisine restaurants include: Bistro Madeleine, Café Arabesque, Casa Mia, Epicure, Kisaku, Market Café, Planet Hollywood, Asha’s, Medzo, Mahi Mahi, Sukhothai, Wox, Sumo Sushi, Ewaan, Cactus Cantina, Café Sushi, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Mediterraneo, Mercurries, More Café, Wagamama, Zuma, Bussola, Certo, Karam Beirut, Noodle House, Sezzam, Toscana, Zheng He’s

Those wishing to savour traditional Iftar meals/buffets could do so at:

• Boulvar Restaurant
• Shabestan
• The Lobby Café
• Mediterraneo restaurant at Armani Hotel Dubai
• “At The Top” observation deck at Burj Khalifa
• Asateer Arabian tent at Atlantis Hotel
• Atrium restaurant
• KGrill
• Ramadan Nights At The Terrace
• Ping Pong
• All the star rated hotels in Dubai.

Please check our hotel related blogs for contact details

Whether one is Muslim or Non-Muslim it is essential that we learn to respect other religion’s feelings. Dubai is a progressive emirate among all, embracing all tourists and expatriates with warmth and providing them their religious space. However, it is not to be forgotten that the UAE is an Islamic country where their religion and followings are strictly adhered to. Visiting Dubai during the Ramadan period may not seem to a feasible idea for many tourists, but if you want to explore the spiritual nuances of Islam then this is the right time regardless of your beliefs.

Two Emirati Muslim men congratulate each other during the Eid al-Fitr prayers at the end of the holy month of Ramadan (AP / Kamran Jebreili)

Dubai is a place with well-established, famous and luxurious sights tendering a warm atmosphere. The city is also adapting to the western traditions and customs at a faster rate. But, Ramadan in Dubai changes the city of diverse lifestyles into an undistinguished blend of modern culture and religion. With no live music shows or concerts and closed down nightclubs, the city turns out to be vivacious in its Arabic tents, Jaimas and Majlis. The tents are festooned with Persian carpets and elegantly positioned cushions, placing a true reflection of the Arabian Culture. Delicious food and beverages are waiting inside the tents. People break their fast with the Iftar feast and enjoy smoking shisha and playing games.

The famous and the most important festival for the Muslims will be hosted from 11th August 2010 to 9th September 2010 in accordance with the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is the holiest month and it reminds the Muslims of the era of revelations arising from God.  The festival begins with the onset of the crescent moon and continues for a period of 30 days. As per the Muslim tradition, all the Muslims in Dubai will be fasting for a month, withdrawing themselves from eating, drinking, sexual pleasures and sins, and will be having their meals before sunrise and after sunset. Also the cafes and coffee shops in Dubai will be swarming up their activities after evening. Fasting in Ramadan forms the fourth pillar of the five pillars of the Islamic faith and reminds the difficulties and dilemma of the sick, poor and needy.
This 30-day fast is ended with the Eid al-Fitr, a time to celebrate. The Muslims all over Dubai celebrate this day by getting together and feasting. Muslim Women adorn their hands with henna in beautiful patterns.

Ramadan is the busiest time for all the malls in Dubai.  During this time, there are attractive discount offers lying on the way for the shopping lovers, travelers and others. Discount is offered on flight bookings, hotel reservations, on the rates of short stay apartments, in restaurants and retail stores. Also, there are special markets showcasing variety in gold, antiques, carpets, mobile phones, computers, watches and other accessories. All the Malls are open during the fasting hours but follow no food rule if their eating area is visible and the restaurants serve no food during day time or else slide the curtains. Non-Muslims show their gentleness by avoiding smoking, drinking and eating in the public areas, thus giving respect to the people who are fasting. Also, no alcohol is served during day time.

A time of tolerance, peace and sharing, the festival also unifies culture and religion. Donations given during this time directly goes to the charity and humanitarian projects of the UAE Red Crescent.

Begging

A country that is known for strict implementation of laws will soon put to the test its new law for Emirati and Non-Emirati beggars. A draft proposed by the Dubai Police and Ministry of Interior will in particular categorize begging as a criminal offense, with the purpose of combating the menace during the holy month of Ramadan.

As there is no anti-begging law implemented in the UAE, each Emirate has its own way of tackling beggars.  Currently, the UAE issues fines of 3,000 dirhams and a 1-month imprisonment penalty, while foreigners face immediate deportation and a permanent ban from re-entering the UAE in the future.

If the proposed law is implemented, beggars will face an increased fine of 10,000 dirhams and a 3-months imprisonment. They will also have to enroll themselves for an anti-rehabilitation programme. Also, the law permits authorities to confiscate money from beggars.

Beggars with disabilities will be treated leniently, yet still face 15-days imprisonment and a 1,500 Dirhams fine.

Beginning July 25 and continuing till Eid Al Fitr, the Dubai Police have started a new “Combat Street Beggars” campaign including more than 30 patrol units, which will not only monitor neighborhood areas and religious places, but also keep  child begging in check.

It is not just begging, but there are many tourist companies in Dubai that sneak in foreigners for this very purpose. These foreigners have been issued tourist visas with the help of these companies. The Ministry of Interior will ensure tough action against these companies/individuals and deport them immediately with a permanent ban from re-entering Dubai, Major-General Khamis Mattar Al Muzaina, deputy chief of Dubai Police said.

Instead of resorting to begging, local Emiratis are advised to obtain help from charity organizations in order to meet their needs for money. If caught for a second time, they will face stricter action and penalties.

Al Maktoum International Ruway (GFDL/Fatma3298)

Dubai officially opened its second Al Maktoum International Airport on Sunday for cargo operations. Previously known as Jebel Ali International Airport, it is the emirates second airport and supposed to become the world’s largest. In a statement issued by Dubai Airports, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum , president of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports said “the opening is the first step in a long infrastructure development project that over time will see our new airport transformed into the world’s largest global gateway and a multi-modal logistics hub that plays an increasingly integral role in the ongoing economic and social development of Dubai. It is a proud day for Dubai and an auspicious occasion for the future of global aviation”.

Phase 1 of the Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International (DWC) features a runway that is capable of accommodating a super-jumbo Airbus A380 jet, 64 remote stands, a cargo terminal with a capacity for 250,000 tonnes a year and a passenger terminal designed to accommodate 5 million passengers a year.

The completion of the USD$10.9 billion project is estimated to take 10-15 years and will have five runways, up to four terminal buildings and the capacity for 12 million tonnes of freight and 160 million passengers a year.

Passenger flights are planned to start by March 2011, dependent on IATA regulations.

Sheikh Ahmed said in May “Dubai first airport, the Dubai International Airport is capable of handling 2.5 million tonnes of cargo and is expected to increase its capacity by 48 percent to 3 million tonnes by 2015″

It is estimated that 98 million passengers will pass through Dubai International Airport by 2020 and will rocket to 150 million by 2030.

Dubai Airports have stated, Dubai International Airport is the fourth largest airport globally for international passenger traffic.

Committed cargo carriers for the new airport include Aban Air, ACI, Aerospace Consortium, Aviation Service Management, Coyne Airways, EuroAsian Services, Gatewick, Ramjet, Reem Style, Rial Aviation, Rus Aviation, Sonic Jet, SunGlobal, Skyline and United Aviation Services with operations steadily increasing over the next few months.

AP / Kamran Jebreili

Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) festivities kick off in the shadow of Dubai Shopping Festival, a far more popular event taking place during the tolerable climate months of January-February. DSS is not far behind and together with DSF plays a major role in characterizing Dubai as the Mecca for shopaholics.

This year, the festival has started on 17 June with 52 days of international fashion events, shopping discounts in malls, food, entertainment, kid’s events, concerts, musicals and cartoons enthralling every one.
Presented by Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE), formerly known as the Dubai Shopping Festival Office, DSS delegates Dubai on an international level as shoppers from all around the place, are lured by the amazing discounts on merchandise. Nowhere will you find special offers like Best Buys, Buy One Get One Free, Added Value, and deals that are more interesting.

DSS’s lucky mascot ‘Modhesh’ has marked down its favorite merchandise, which could be gold & jewelry, electronics, international fashion labels, luxury watches, hotel accommodation or fine dining across various locations in Dubai. In addition, to make the customers feel pampered there are various deals across all the major spas and salons around Dubai.

It is not always true to say, money burns a hole in one’s pocket. DSS proves it wrong with its Raffles draw where you get a chance to win 14 BMW series 3 luxury sedans. Draws will be held every Thursday from June 24, except for the Final Draw that will take place on Saturday August 7.

Other than shopping, Dubai is admired for its perfect blend of outdoor attractions and historical monuments. Complete your trip to Dubai with a Desert Safari besides visiting the Park, Art Galleries, Golf Courses, Zoos and Museums. Alternatively, spend a little more to book yourself a helicopter ride to enjoy a view of the eye-catching Arabian Gulf.

Souqs & Markets

Gold Souq:
A place not to be missed, the Gold Souq is the ‘soul’ of Dubai and earned its rightful place as the ‘City of Gold’. Situated in the narrow alleys of Deira, well-known brands along with unbranded outlets sell gold in a wide range of accessories.

Spice Souq:
Spices typical to the Arab world are to be found only in the alleys of Dubai. Overpowering fragrances of strong spices fill the Arabian styled market. This is the ideal place to buy Arabian souvenirs that you’ll want to remember forever such as sheesha pipes, henna, incense sticks, sandalwood, etc.

Textile Market:
Textile Market is an excellent place to buy cloth from traders at reasonable rates. Items on display are exports from Afghanistan, India, Iran, UAE, Pakistan and Oman.

Participating Malls in DSS

Al Bustan Centre

Mall Timings:
Saturday to Thursday: 10am to 11pm
Friday: 2pm to 11pm

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 263 0000
Fax: +971 4 263 0005
Toll Free: 800 4648 (UAE Only)
Website: www.al-bustan.com

Al Ghurair City

Mall Timings:
Saturday to Thursday: 10am to 12am
Friday: 2pm to 12am

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 2055309/285
Fax: +971 4 2229028
Website: www.alghuraircity.com
Email: infoagc@al-ghurair.com

Arabian Center

Mall Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 10:30pm
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 12 midnight

Foodcourt & Restaurant Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 12 midnight
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 12:30am

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 2845555
Fax: +971 4 2845444
Website: www.arabiancenter.ae
Email: arabian.info@lalsgroup.com

Century Mall

Mall Timings:
Saturday to Wednesday: 10am to 10pm
Thursday: 10am to 11pm
Friday: 2pm to 11pm

Carrefour Hypermarket:
Everyday: 8:30am to 12 midnight

Jungle Bungle:
Saturday to Wednesday: 10am to 11pm
Thursday: 10am to 1am
Friday: 2pm to 1am

Food Court:
Saturday to Wednesday: 10am to 12 midnight
Thursday: 10am to 1am
Friday: 2pm to 1am

Lamcy Plaza

Mall Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 9am to 10:30pm
Thursday to Saturday: 9am to 12 midnight

Foodcourt Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 9am to 12 midnight

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 3359999
Fax: +971 4 3359996

Mercato

Mall Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am – 10pm
Thursday to Saturday: 10am – Midnight

Spinneys Supermarket:
Everyday: 8am to 12 midnight

Grand Cinemas:
Everyday: 10am to 12 midnight

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 3444 161
Fax: +971 4 3490 066
Website: www.MercatoShoppingMall.com
Email: management@mercatotowncentre.ae

Oasis Centre

Mall Timings:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am to 10pm
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 12 midnight

Contact Information:
Tel: +971 4 515 4000
Fax: +971 4 515 4001
Website: www.oasiscentremall.com

Palm Strip

Mall Timings:
Saturday to Thursday: 10am to 10pm
Friday: 2pm to 10pm

Contact Information:
Tel: 04-3461462
Fax: 04-3461206
Website: www.dipllc.ae

The Dubai Mall

Mall Timings:
Everyday: 10am to 12 midnight

Contact Information:
Tel: 800 38224 6255 (800 DUBAI MALL)
Website: www.thedubaimall.com

Arabian Travel Market

Arabian Travel Market is a universally recognized travel and tourism industry event held to promote the business opportunities in the Middle East for international tourism professionals. Nations from around the world take part in the event to display and announce various upcoming projects, tourist attractions, and airline routes in an effort to sustain and boost tourism infrastructure.

This year, the event is being held from 4 – 7 May 2010 in Dubai with a comprehensive list of programmes planned during the event. Prominent features of the event include:

Seminar & Debate Programmes: Seminar & Debate Programmes at the Arabian Travel Market include participation of top-notch professionals in the travel and tourism industry including Google, Euromonitor and many more.

Travel Agents Day: ‘Travel Agents Day’ provides companies the opportunity to promote their products and destinations to Travel Agents visiting the stands. This year they even have a ‘Passport to the World’ competition that will entitle you to win a prize through a lucky draw. Check for more details on Arabian Travel Market’s official site.

Careers Day: Careers Day allows fresh candidates to pave their career path with the help of Arabian Travel Market. Exhibitors and candidates get to know each other throughout the day with various activities arranged specially for them. These include Onsite Interviews, Workshops and Seminars, and Careers and Training Advice.

Consumer Day: Held on the last day of the event, i.e. 7^th May, Consumer Day is a gateway for tourists to discover new places, accommodations and exotic locations. Consumers are lured towards the event by promotional events, lucky draws and discounts.

If you want to know more about Arabian Travel Market, kindly visit its official site

Arabian Travel Market

United Kingdom

T: +44 208 271 2158

F: +44 208 334 0740

E: arabian.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk

Middle East & North Africa

T: +971 4 364 2814

F: +971 4 369 7560

A few of different options for kids are:

Kids Island Nursery:
For kids aged between 2-5 years old, Kids Island Nursery offers a beautifully creative fun filled ground for boys and girls. The camp includes a number of art and craft activities, storytelling,  as well as singing and dancing lessons.

Favorite Things:
Starts from 4th April to 15th April, Favorite things camp is situated in the Dubai Marina Mall. The camp offers a variety of interesting activities such as art and craft, puppet shows, story telling, magicians, cookery classes and different types of fascinating science sessions. The camp also includes free access to the play area and lunch.

Science Camp:
This is a place for kids who love science. This is a five days camp for children from 5 to 12 years, who would love to build a bridge or explore some crazy chemistry experiment. The camp starts from 4th April to 8th April. The second session is from 11th April to 15th April.

Active Sports Academy:
The Regent International School and Pharaoh’s Club attract kids for the participation of different activities such as arts and crafts, karaoke, painting, yoga, gymnastics, drama, swimming and lot more.

Football Camp:
Held at the Wellington International School, Football Camp is for kids who appreciate the game. Starts from 4th April to 8th April, all the coaching sessions are managed by EA Sports. Kids are made to concentrate on different skills, drills and competitions.

Clark Francis Tennis:
All the young tennis lovers can spoil themselves by playing their favorite sport in between 4th April to 8th April and from 11th April to 15th April, at the Aviation Club. The camp includes fitness training, lessons in coordination and team games. The very young players are also allowed to play matches. Children in between 4 to 14 years are allowed to attend the camp.

Finishing Touch:
Held at the knowledge village, the Finishing Touch camp concentrates in improving the kids’ confidence, body language and posture along with restraining rude behavior. Furthermore, the camp also teaches the kids how to eat with a knife and fork, to eat difficult food easily and quietly, and to address invitation notes or thank you notes. The camp starts from 1st April and lasts till 10th April and is for kids aged between 7-12 years.

Street shopping

Gold Souq - shops displaying an incredible array of gold jewelery items in 18, 21, 22 or 24 carat gold.

Spice Souq – as ideal place to buy variety of spices such as frankincense, oud, cumin, paprika and saffron

Textile Market – wholesale and retail textile traders from Asia and other countries offer variety of clothing at reasonable prices.

Partial list of malls participating in Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF 2010)

Name	Timings	Contact details
Al Bustan Centre	Sat. to Thurs.: 10am to 11pm Fri.: 2pm to 11pm	Tel: +971 4 263 0000 Toll Free: 800 4648 (UAE Only) www.al-bustan.com
Al Ghurair City	Sat. to Thurs.: 10am to 12am Fri.: 2pm to 12am	Tel: +971 4 2055309/285 www.alghuraircity.com
Arabian Center	Sun. to Wed.: 10am to 10:30pm Thurs. to Sat.: 10am to 12 midnight	Tel: +971 4 2845555 www.arabiancenter.ae
Bin Sougat Centre	Sat. to Thurs.: 10am to 10pm Fri.: 5pm to 10pm	Tel: +971 4 286 3000
Century Mall	Sat. to Wed.: 10am to 10pm Thurs.: 10am to 11pm Fri.: 2pm to 11pm	-
Deira City Centre	Sun. to Wed.: 10am to 10pm Thurs. to Sat.: 10am to 12 midnight DSF Timings: 10am to 12 midnight	Tel: +971 4 2954545 www.deiracitycentre.com
Dubai Festival City	Sun. to Wed.: 10am to 10pm Thurs. and Sat.: 10am to 12 midnight	Concierge: 800 332 32/ 800 DFC FC Tel: +971 4 425 4900 www.dubaifestivalcity.com
Ibn Battuta Mall	Sat.: 10am to 10pm Thurs. - Fri.: 10am to 10pm	Telephone: +971 4 362 1900 www.ibnbattutamall.com
Jumeirah Centre	Sat. to Thurs.: 9am to 9pm Fri.: 4pm to 9pm	Tel: +971 4 3499702
Karama Centre	-	Tel: +971 4 3374499
Lamcy Plaza	Sun. to Wed.: 9am to 10:30pm Thurs. to Sat.: 9am to 12 midnight	Tel: +971 4 3359999
Mercato	Sun. to Wed.: 10am - 10pm Thurs. to Sat.: 10am - Midnight	Tel: +971 4 3444 161 www.MercatoShoppingMall.com
Palm Strip	Sat. to Thurs.: 10am to 10pm Fri.: 2pm to 10pm	Tel: +971 4 3461462
The Dubai Mall	Everyday: 10am to 12 midnight	Tel: 800 38224 6255 (800 DUBAI MALL) www.thedubaimall.com
The Walk @JBR	Sat. to Thurs.: 10am to 10pm Fri.: 3pm to 10pm	Toll Free: +971 4 4230696 www.thewalk.ae
Times Square Center	Sat. to Wed.: 10am to 10pm Thurs. and Fri.: 10am to 12 midnight	Tel: +971 4 3418020 www.timessquarecenter.ae
WAFI	Sat. to Wed.: 10am to 10pm Thurs. and Fri.: 10am to 12 midnight	Tel: +971 4 3244555 www.wafi.com