Weekend rush at Creek Park market

More than 6,000 visitors crowded the night market at Dubai Creek Park last weekend. "More and more families are flocking to the market since its opening," said Mohammed Al Fardan, Head of the Promotion and Recreation Programme Office at the Public Parks and Horticulture Department of Dubai Municipality.

"This park attracts a large number of visitors due to the the variety of entertainment it offers. These activities start at the beginning of Ramadan and run through till the end of Eid Al Fitr," he said.

"We have arranged the activities in such a way as to accommodate all age groups. While different rides and a variety of toys attract children, a number of kiosks set up at the market attract the elders as they can shop for cheaper prices. We have also reduced the entrance fee to the park in order to attract more families to the night market," he said.

The night market, which used to be held at Safa Park in previous years, was shifted to Creek Park this year.

"The night market used to be managed by a private company. But this year, the municipality is managing the market itself," said Al Fardan.

The night market is designed to emulate the traditional Arab souq. It opens at 8pm and closes at 1.30am.

The market has stalls for garments, perfumes, cosmetic items, accessories, handicraft items, artifacts, watches, optical items, decorative plants, flowers, stationery items, restaurants, footwear and many other consumer items and traditional products.

"The variety of the products has drawn a large number of people this year. The colourful tents and the whole atmosphere give a character that suits the Ramadan season," said Al Fardan.