With the signing of an agreement between Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) and the Space Toon channel for coverage and the use of its characters, DSS 2003 will feature shows, plays and live shows owned by Space Toon.

Space Toon recently set up a unit in Dubai Media City (DMC).

Saeed Al Naboudah, chief executive officer, DSS, said: "We are very pleased to announce the agreement between Space Toon and DSS. We are sure that our presence on this channel with such wide coverage will be a great benefit to us."

"At DSS, we are concerned about offering entertainment and education to all participants in an unparalleled way. The Organising Committee is constantly on the look-out for ways to improve and highlight the experience of DSS to visitors.

"The media has been extremely cooperative and understanding about our venture and have granted us good coverage locally, regionally and internationally. Through Space Toon, we now have extensive coverage and can also bring famous characters to life through live shows," he added.

Faiz Al Sabaq, president, Space Toon, said: "We are very pleased with our agreement with DSS. Our association with an entity like DSS is a big step towards our aim. We want to enhance every child's knowledge in the Arab world, which was never a priority in the past.

"Our specialised programmes and projects will ensure that this is a fun and educative channel. Since setting up in Dubai, our experiences have been wonderful. The professionalism and international standards of the DMC are astounding.

"There were no second thoughts about setting up our unit there. Working with DSS and the team has also been a great experience and we're glad that it has come to a fruitful conclusion like this."

He added: "We are really impressed with the concept behind the DSS and the amazing success they have experienced. It would not have been possible anywhere but in Dubai. This event attracts so many visitors, especially from around the GCC, that, too, in a traditional tourism slump like summer.

"The thought of gearing up the whole city to give children a wonderful time is worthy of praise. We plan to be right in the centre of the action, so as to get maximum footage as well as be seen by all.

"Our stalls will be in the Modhesh Fun City and in various shopping malls. Over here, we will be displaying shows of our cartoon characters, both televised and live."

The agreement will not be restricted to television coverage. Space Toon will provide the characters for shows and plays to be staged in Modhesh Fun City and in various malls. Some of the shows are 'Conan' and 'Popeye' which children are already familiar with.

One of the unique features that Space Toon is preparing is the 'Live Comic' facility. Here, the child can get his or her photograph taken in a variety of situations or poses with cartoon characters, which will then be woven into a story, like in a comic book.

This is sure to be a hit with the little ones. OIn addition, there will be 'The Mask of Zorro' with bikes, horses, and the Popeye show, where the sailorman pulls a car to show off how strong he is.

Children will be able to view Space Toon cinemas, too. Some of the shows planned in various parts of the city include 'Ninja Turtles', 'Titanic' and others.

Space Toon has an array of programmes like 'Lets & Go', a show famous among child viewers, from the Think & Play Competitions.

The Space Toon plays and shows will feature the cartoon characters for which Space Toon holds the rights. Some of the more popular ones are Popeye and the Pink Panther.

Children can watch the shows as well as partake in interactive sessions featuring the characters.