Beat the heat and stay indoors as Dubai Summer Surprises gets under way

As temperatures continue their upward trajectory, things can get fairly uncomfortable in the great outdoors.

Fear not as there’s plenty of fun on inside however, thanks to Dubai Summer Surprises. Although known as a shopping festival, there’s much more to DSS this year. With fun events for the kids, spa deals, free theatrical performances and the chance to learn a little more about the UAE, there’s plenty of activities which fit this year’s slogan of ‘Dubai, Summer Fun and More’.

With the month-long campaign getting under way today, there’s no excuse to be bored over the next four weeks.

We’ve had a look at all the events available and chosen our favourites to help you make the most of what’s going on in delightful Dubai...

KEEP THE KIDS HAPPY

What better way for kids to stay cool than hitting the ‘Water Theme Park’ at Al Ghurair Centre (right). The mall is hosting ‘water-based games and competitions’. There’s also a ‘Wii Zone’ where winners will be awarded vouchers every day throughout DSS. Painting, boat making, arts and crafts, ‘roll and bake’ sessions with Cinnabon and a soft play area for toddlers are also available, with activities running from 11am-10pm daily.

With a race-car simulator where children can compete against each other, horse riding, and a chance to try their hand at sand art, Modhesh World at Dubai Trade Centre has everything a family could want to keep the brood happy. The centre also has a ‘Girls Zone’ dedicated to little ladies who want to step into a world of fantasy with the help of enchanting princess characters. Another bonus is it’s just Dhs10 to enter and, unlike the rest of the DSS activities which end on July 14, Modhesh World is open until the end of August. Cool!

LEARN A LITTLE

For lessons in UAE culture and heritage, check out Min Biladi Al Emarat at Dubai Mall. There will be Arabian tents, competitions and shows at the event, which runs until June 23.

With the aim of adding an ‘intellectual flavour’ to DSS, the ‘Mind’s Pleasure’ cultural programme at the Trade Centre consists of a series of interactive Arabic and English lectures and workshops on the challenges of modern life.

Don’t forget to check out the storytelling corner and live performances at Mercato mall (inset). Families can also enjoy puppet shows, greeting-card making and getting messy with playdough!

HIT THE SHOPS

For many, DSS is all about the shopping. With offers and promotions galore in most of the stores in the malls, you should be able to bag a bargain.

Toys R Us is offering 50 per cent off in its sale, Lifestyle stores are giving up to 60 per cent discounts and Bath and Body Works is giving 75 per cent off. Virgin Megastore is running a scratch ‘n’ win card promotion to those spending more than Dhs150 in store. Prizes range from cameras and phones to laptops. If it’s a laptop you’re after, HP is offering the chance to win travel vouchers up to Dhs2,000 with the purchase of a desktop or notebook computer.

SENSUAL SAVINGS

If you plan on using the summer to de-stress and relax, there are plenty of spa deals about to help you do just that. The DSS spa ritual at Amara Spa, Park Hyatt (above) is available for Dhs700 instead of Dhs1,400. You’ll get a salt scrub, massage, facial, healthy meal and use of the pool. The Spa at the Address Marina also has a DSS ‘Summer Sojourn’ offer. For Dhs490 it includes a 90-minute exfoliation treatment, massage and facial.