Dubai: Many hotels in the UAE are looking at a busy period during Ramadan. Large corporate houses have already made their bookings at various hotels as they look to host corporate iftars and suhours for their clients.
Emirates Grand Hotel, the 50-storey tower located in the heart of Dubai's business and commercial district, will offer iftar and suhour cuisines and guests can expect wholesome Arabic hospitality.
Eyad Hamed, Resident Manager, Emirates Grand Hotel, said: "Families and friends usually gather to end their fast together preferably at a convenient venue. Our location is perfect for families to come and enjoy iftar and suhour during Ramadan. With our specially selected cuisine for the occasion, we guarantee a truly enjoyable and memorable Ramadan for our valued guests."
As in previous years, the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is looking to host its 10th Ramadan Forum under the Faith and Security theme.
The event seeks to develop a better cultural understanding among the various nationalities living side by side in the UAE.
Shaikh Ahmad Bin Mohamad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, said: "The Ramadan Forum has become one of the most important religious events during this month not only in Dubai and the UAE, but in the entire region.
Khalid A. Bin Sulayem, Director-General of the DTCM, said, "The selection of this theme is so relevant, it reflects the living styles and conditions of the UAE people and expatriates who live in a safe and secure environment."
During Ramadan working hours are reduced for Muslims and non-Muslims in most workplaces. The country is quiet during the day and comes alive at night. Many buildings and streets are lit up as the sun goes down.
Ramadan can be a challenge for visitors, but it is a good time to be in the UAE as hotel tariffs usually fall.
Many hotels set up Ramadan tents where guests can end their fast with iftar, and also partake in suhour.
These elaborately decorated tents are air-conditioned with comfortable seating and serve traditional cuisine and Ramadan drinks.
Shoppers could also benefit with the extended mall hours — quite a few of them are open from morning until midnight and offer special prices on a variety of goods.
A series of shopping, entertainment and cultural activities is being planned at the Expo Centre Sharjah to celebrate the silver jubilee of the popular Ramadan Fair which is being held from August 11 to September 3.
Saif Mohammad Al Midfa, Director General of the Expo Centre Sharjah, said, "The Ramadan Fair offers retailers a great opportunity to boost their sales during this time of the year. It is supported by the comprehensive marketing campaign that precedes and accompanies the fair, making it a huge attraction to all segments of the UAE population."
Impressive presence
This year's fair features an impressive presence of Thai companies, with 25 stalls set to be occupied by leading retailers showcasing a variety of products from the country.
The stalls will display products such as household goods, furniture, electronics, garments, footwear, gift items and jewellery from China, Turkey, Italy, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia besides the UAE.
