Al Ain: An exclusive children's village has been set up at the forthcoming Al Ain Aerobatics Show, to provide a host of fun-filled activities.

Children will also have the opportunity to take part in contests, including a painting competition, organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Al Ain Educational Zone.

A representative from Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, the organisers of the show, said activities would be on offer to suit all family members.

"Children are also promised thrilling shows by world-renowned and highly skilled pilots and aerobatics teams who will perform breathtaking demonstrations," said an official from the authority.

Tailored for all age groups, the recreational activities and facilities will include a heritage village showcasing UAE culture, and local and international art exhibitions.

There will also be special sections for families. Aerobatics fans, especially children, will have the opportunity to watch different models of jets from a closer angle and take photographs, as scores of jets will be showcased without barriers at the show's venue, the official added.

A photographic competition taking place on the sidelines of the show has also recently been announced.

The Eye in Al Ain Sky exhibition will feature photographs with an aviation theme and is open to both professional and amateur photographers. The deadline for submissions is January 7.

Meanwhile, the World Aerobatic Grand Prix is also a part of the Al Ain 2006 show, which is being held under the patronage of General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces.

Jurgis Kairys, a 53-year-old Lithuanian pilot, will be participating in the Grand Prix. Kairys has held the Freestyle World Championship several times and also held the second place in solo aerobatics at the 21st World Grand Prix last year in Al Ain.

The air show is being organised by the Al Ain Economic Development and Tourism Authority.

It has the support of Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College, Al Ain Municipality and Town Planning Department, Abu Dhabi Department of Civil Aviation, the General Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police and Al Ain International Airport.

The show will be held from January 11 to 15. It opens from noon and will include night displays, the timings of which are to be announced shortly.

Meanwhile, the World Aerobatic Grand Prix is also a part of the Al Ain 2006 show. Jurgis Kairys, a 53-year-old Lithuanian pilot, will be participating in the Grand Prix.