The fun officially starts today! Sales galore, activity-swamped malls, stage shows aplenty and much much more as Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) opens its arms once again.
But for a whole bunch of little people DSS means one thing and one thing only - Modhesh!
Today, the yellow-clad character crawled out of hibernation and made his way to his home for the 10-week festival at Dubai's Airport Expo - this year's Fun City.
But on his way, for the first time in a several years, Modhesh did the unthinkable and made an unexpected stop at tabloid!
Looking fresh in his usual yellow attire, Modhesh greeted everyone as he made his way into the office for a quick interview.
The A-list celebrity (as he is now recognised) said he wanted to give all the children of the UAE a few tips on the things not to be missed this DSS.
I was apprehensive to say the least as the star walked through the door but it wasn't long before his friendly nature had me at ease.
Now 7 years old, he said: "I am looking forward to DSS this year as it a special year - we are celebrating 10 years, you know.
"There will be lots going on and I will be around for everyone to meet at Fun City. It is hard working throughout the summer, but I love it because I get to meet so many new and old faces."
How would you describe yourself?
Modhesh is the quintessential DSS mascot known for his ever smiling face with seven tufts of hair and bright yellow sunny suit.
How will you celebrate your birthday this year?
I plan to spread my birthday celebrations over the whole summer. That way I get to spend it with as many people as possible. I want to have lots of fun and make lots of friends.
What are you most looking forward to about DSS this year?
I am very excited about Fun City because that is where I spend so much of my time. There will be so much to do and so many great things to see that I think the only way to experience it all is by visiting as much as possible.
What is your favourite food?
This may seem odd but I am a huge fan of fruit and vegetables. I have to eat five portions every day and I love the way they taste so fresh. I think people who eat fruit and vegetables are very cool.
If you had to travel anywhere in the world apart from Dubai, where would you go?
In Dubai I have met people from all over the world and I like them all the same. So I would want to be very greedy and have a plane which could take me absolutely everywhere to make new friends and visit the ones I have made from other countries.
What makes you happy?
The one thing which makes me very happy is the thought of hundreds and thousands of children who cannot wait to become my friend and meet other kids during DSS. Life is all about making friends, having fun and being kind to one another.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy whatever my friends like to do. I like everything fun - music, drama, movies, cartoons, painting, colouring and playing at Modhesh Fun City.
What is the one new thing for this DSS which you are most looking forward too?
Well (he hesitates slightly and looks all shy)... I know people think I am a celebrity, but I am only popular because I am so friendly and want to make friends with as many people as possible. But because I can't be everywhere the children can buy new educational learning merchandise to use when I'm not around. That is quite exciting.
What's on offer in your line of products - Modhesh merchandise?
Modhesh merchandise has a lot to offer this time. There are stationery items, stuffed toys and CD games, beach items, caps and T-shirts, confetti guns, soft toys, key rings and souvenirs to choose from. And all these things come in a wide range of bright colours. With an eclectic range of products Modhesh merchandise also offers, fleece blankets towels, cushions, bean bags, paddle balls, bubble toys, and a number of educational games and stories on CDs which are available both in English and Arabic.
Do you like being a celebrity in the UAE?
Awwrgggghh (his big yellow cheeks turn pink as he blushes)? I'm no celebrity, I'm just Modhesh - full of fun and a friend to all.
What is your message for your fans?
Keep smiling always just like me.
Enduring symbol
Modhesh is the event's enduring symbol and was born seven years ago when he popped out of a jack-in-the-box in a DSS television advert.
His popularity is truly inspiring, growing constantly over the years. As summer arrives, children anxiously wait for their favourite character to return and become a part of their lives.
He is the harbinger of the 10 weekly themed surprises, which this year run from today to August 31.
Bouncing with unlimited energy and enthusiasm, Modhesh welcomes everyone to celebrate the summer season with a smile.
Modhesh Fun City is at Dubai International Airport Expo.
Did you know?
Modhesh was born from the Arabic version of Sesame Street.
Modhesh in Arabic means amazing, incredible and unexpected.
Modhesh's yellow colour reflects the everlasting beauty of sunshine.
Fun City
All roads lead to Dubai Airport Expo today as Modhesh Fun City, the biggest indoor fun destination in Dubai, opens its doors to the public unveiling a world of Modhesh fantasy in a gigantic city within a city.
This impressive venue with its new zones and attractions is geared up to welcome thousands of DSS visitors of all age groups who will be left asking for more as the 30,000 sq m facility offers a whole new world of entertainment under one roof.
With ample free parking space, this largest-of-its-kind Fun City in the region begins at 10am and plays host to a grand 10th year celebration this evening at 7.30pm to officially open Dubai Summer Surprises 2007.
Running throughout the Dubai Summer Surprises from June 21 to August 31, Modhesh Fun City is open to public from 10am to 10pm on weekdays and 10am to 11pm on Thursdays and Saturdays and 3pm to 11pm on Fridays. The entry tickets are priced at Dh20 for kids, which also include some free rides, and Dh10 for adults.
