DUBAI — The Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), now in its 18th edition, has once again proven to be an important catalyst for economic activity in the emirate with the first two weeks of the annual summer extravaganza boosting business across various sectors such as retail, hospitality, airlines and financial services. Organized by the DFRE, an agency of the DTCM, DSS 2015 kicked off on July 23 and will run until Sept. 5 under the theme ‘45 Days of Summer'.
Commenting on the halfway stage of DSS 2015, Laila Mohammad Suhail, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “We are delighted with the midterm results we have received from various economic sectors. Retailers across the emirate are reporting increased footfalls and higher spending by both residents, as well as tourists from around the world, underscoring the significant and growing contribution of DSS to Dubai's economy.
“The positive impact is evident by the huge success achieved by one of the unique initiatives launched during DSS 2015 - The Big Summer Sale, which became an instant hit with shoppers. It raked in sales exceeding AED15 million and drew more than 110,000 visitors.”
Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “With its diverse tourism attractions and offerings, Dubai is listed by MasterCard Global Destination Index 2014 as the world's 5th Top Global Destination, providing unique choices, new experiences and diverse offerings to its visitors throughout the year.” More than 110, 000 people visited this unique event, which was held for the first time during DSS from July 23 to Aug. 1at Dubai World Trade Centre with sales of participating retailers exceeded AED15 million.
Modhesh World, one of the most popular indoor edutainment destinations for families at Dubai World Trade Centre, recorded an increase of more than 40 per cent in visitors in the first half of DSS compared to the same period in 2014. Modhesh World, which is celebrating its biggest ever edition this year, is expected to draw more visitors in the remaining days of DSS. — SG
