The fifth week of the Dubai Summer Surprises opened to the beating of African drums and the sights and sounds of ancient Rome and China as seven days of global festivities got underway last night.

The Global Surprises opening ceremony, which was attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was witnessed by crowds of well over 1000 people, who crowded into Diera City Centre to watch the event.

The show began with a musical extravaganza based on the theme of Global Surprises, which this year has been organised by the Dubai Ports and Customs Authority. The event consisted of a 15 minute tribute to world civilisations, including the beating of Roman war drums, a presentation by an African Zulu Warriors troupe, and a host of acrobatics performed by colourfully dressed Chinese artistes.

A video film made by Universal Company showcased the civilisations of the world with special affects and sound techniques - which proved a hit with the equally multi-cultural audience who gathered to watch the spectacle.

Over the next seven days, different shopping malls will come alive with the Global sights, sounds dances and music. Folklore performances will feature troupes from India, South America, the Philippines and Europe.

Chinese artistes performing at the opening ceremony of Global Surprises. ©Gulf News
The Ancient Civilisation shows will also cover the Roman Empire, Egyptian Pharaohs, the Chinese Dynasty, African Zulus and the Vikings. The Window to the World Exhibition taking place at Hamarain Centre is open to school children who are required to collect information on topics like space, history and geography.

A number of competitions on the theme of "History of Civilisation" will be held during the week as different malls. There will also be a competition on Dubai TV and Dubai Radio based on the Global Surprises activities, the Dubai Ports Authority, Jebel Ali Free Zone and Port Rashid, which offers a daily prize of Dh500.

Also on offer will be many events held by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, which include The Ships of the World Exhibition and the Islamic Civilisation Exhibition at BurJuman Centre, Global Houses Exhibition at Diera City Centre, Global Monuments at Hamarain Al Ghurair City, Wafi City and Dubai Airport.

Land of Hobbies will be held at Oasis Centre, Global Inventors at Wafi City, and Famous Leaders of the Past is also at BurJuman Centre.