The emirate of Dubai has been divided into five major zones comprising individual and group outlets for the Monday launch of the shopping and entertainment festival, marking the arrival of the fasting holy month of Ramadan.
Entertainment venues will be set up in each zone, and the theme of Ramadan celebrations in certain areas of the world will be depicted in each zone.
According to the Khaleej Times, the themes are “turquoise, ruby, emerald, pearl and topaz, with surprises in the form of 'treasures' for winners.”
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has been decked out with thousands of multi-colored Ramadan lanterns and lights at a cost of Dh2.2 million ($600,000) for the fourth consecutive year promotional program, which will end after Eid Al Fitr, AFP said.
Thani Juma'a Berregad, chief coordinator of “Dubai The City That Cares 2001” was quoted by the Dubai-based paper as saying that “the theme of Ramadan from a certain area in the Islamic world will be carried in each oasis, Emerald oasis will feature Ramadan in North Africa, Pearl oasis will represent the Gulf countries, Topaz will symbolize East Asian countries, Ruby oasis will highlight Middle Eastern countries, and the Turquoise oasis will illustrate Central Asian countries."
According to the daily, big raffles are a major part of the promotion, and 20 percent of all cash prizes will go to charity in the spirit of Ramadan.
Among the promotions, Emirates Post is offering Dh1 million ($272,000) in prizes in a drawing based on prepaid festive season post cards – Albawaba.com
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