The Dubai Expat Diaries

There’s good news for all the UAE expats and tourists who have been eagerly waiting for the best shopping festival in the region, DSF 2009(Dubai Shopping Festival 2009) is just around the corner. It has been a big hit from its very first launch in early 1996, getting bigger and better every year. This year, the 14^th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival is scheduled to be held from January 15 to February 15, 2009. 

It is the place to be with attractive discounts offered by participating retail outlets and malls, daily car raffles, interesting stalls and recreational rides on Al Seef Road, Global Village, the daily fireworks, plus several shows and activities that are held to make it a fun experience for any age or background.  

This year may be even better for those who are planning to visit. Due to the decline in tourist numbers in recent weeks, Dubai hotels have cut their rates by as much as half the usual rates for this season. The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced a plan to attract more visitors.

“A new marketing campaign aimed at increasing the number of tourists and visitors during DSF is being adopted. The plan includes discounts on hotel room rates ranging from 40 per cent to 60 per cent…The new  campaign is slated to begin on January 10 until mid-February to coincide with DSF 2009”, the DTCM said.

The plan also includes a 25% discount on the prices of food and beverages.

If you would like to make a hotel booking, I would highly recommend this hotel discounts website. It is safe and provides detailed information about hotels (approximately 249 dubai hotels are listed), including pictures and location, to help you choose the one that meets your requirements.

To learn more about the upcoming events and activities during this Dubai Shopping Festival, watch this space!

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