Adventurers look set to enthral people in Dubai

From noted desert explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger to fellow voyagers charting new ground in outer space, underwater and atop mountain ranges, a whole host of world-famous adventurers look set to enthral Dubai residents and visitors when Adventure Surprises opens next week, Dubai Police representatives announced yesterday.

Adventure Surprises week, which runs from August 14 to 20, focuses on both worldwide expeditions as well as igniting the spark within us all to expand our individual horizons, explained officials.

"Dubai Police is well known for proposing new and exciting ideas, and our life is not composed of only shopping malls, so we are trying to encourage people to go outdoors and find all the adventure out there," said Major Mohammed Ahmed bin Dylan, head of the Adventure Surprises committee.

Beginning with a high-tech opening ceremony featuring real-time footage of expeditions, a world-class laser show and an interview with Thesiger, the "Mubarak bin London" of the Arabian peninsula, the penultimate week of Dubai Summer Surprises features a special science expo from the Dubai Men's College and extreme sports.

Highlights include sailing, sand castle building, horse riding, treasure hunts, diving and fishing competitions during Beach Adventures at Al Mamzar Beach Park, fencing displays, paintball, abseiling and a traffic city aimed at boosting children's knowledge of traffic safety.

Sue Pengelly, entertainment manager of HQ Creative, coordinators of the opening ceremony, said the ceremony will take place on Thursday, August 14, at 6.30 pm at the main hall of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Children under 10 are not encouraged.