Zayed University Carnival

Students celebrate with Reema Saffarini

True to its name, Zayed University Carnival (ZUC) was nothing but a colourful celebration  filled with spunk, music, food, singing, water games and loads and loads of shops that sold everything from laptop covers to events management services.

The first-time event was located in the campus courtyard, which was divided into six zones.
The Shops Square featured over 50 shops selling perfume, accessories, handicrafts, food, games, cosmetics and clothes.

The Fun Square provided a playground for children and adults to enjoy themselves.

The Traditional Square provided kiosks for traditional bakers, henna and handicrafts. The event also featured animal rides, a photography studio and the Dubai Police campaign - United for children, united against AIDS.

Shops were run by students, staff and faculty members. In addition, the two- day event also included shows by the Dubai Police band, faculty and staff band, a poetry show and a cartoon show.

Notes was there to talk to students and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the fun festival.

Hip n' Chick!
A store set up by students to sell laptop covers designed by students, among the spices from the UAE.

"We thought it would be a cool and new idea. It is a great way to run a business and gain experience. Many students liked our work and bought a lot from us," said Hessa Hareb, public relations and advertising junior.

Casablanca Gifts
Owned by a graduate student,  her cousin Bodour Al Saoudi ran the small shop during the Carnival.

"We got so many things to sell such as roses, stuffed animals, laptop cases and notebooks draped with handmade covers resembling the Ghatra-UAE national men's headdress. The latter were a hit. We sold Dh 400 worth. The carnival's idea is great because it gives the students a chance to exhibit their talents," said the third year information technology student.

A place to eat and drink
In a nameless shop in the carnival, six students sat behind a table serving crepe and Indian tea to visitors.

"We chose to serve crepe and tea because we wanted something that we can prepare ourselves and serve people on the spot. It was all going great though until the electricity went off! I think the carnival would have been more fun if it was held in January when the weather is good and the load of studies is not much," said Laila Ali, graphic design senior.

Details Events
Basma Abdullah is a partner in Details Events, an event management company based in Abu Dhabi. A marketing student, she was representing the company at the carnival.

"We plan events such as weddings, fashion shows, birthdays, etc. We have been running the company for a year and a half now. I think that holding the carnival was a good idea. So far, I have had a lot of visitors to the booth," she said.

A4
A kiosk based in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the carnival. Business and communication students ran it.

"The nature of our business is producing shirts, notebooks and badges that we have designed ourselves. We have not kept track of how many items we've sold, though," they said.