Al Riqqa Road, Deira, comes alive every Dubai Shopping Festival, buzzing with people who have a hundred things to do.
We've watched fun fairs sprout at open stretches, young visitors screaming with delight every time a roundabout horse took off.
We've seen young girls crowd stalls selling costume jewellery at affordable prices. We've clapped as floats danced down the road, filling Al Riqqa with music and colour.
This year too Al Riqqa Road will be a major Dubai Shopping Festival destination. It will play host to the Jump Martial Art Show, the Acrobat Fun Show and the Juggling on Drums event.
Says Jassim Al Awazi, Head of Riqqa Committee: "The fun fair and skill game areas of Al Riqqa have been firm favourites with children and adults throughout the years."
"This year, with more and better games to suit all age groups, these areas will provide special fun from 4pm to midnight every day."
This year look out for the Techno Village, Al Riqqa Theatre, Crafts Souq, Main Stage and Parades. The Techno Village takes visitors further into the 21st century, while the theatre will keep its audience spellbound from 4 to 10pm every day.
On Thursdays, from 5 to 10pm, the Crafts Souq will come alive next to the main stage offering, as the name suggests, handicrafts and affordable souvenirs.
On the main stage, TV channels will hold their own competitions and shows daily.
"A Safety and Protection Zone, organised by four government departments jointly, will advice visitors and children about safety in their daily lives," Al Awazi says.
Parades will include limousines, Harley-Davidsons, fancy cars and more.
- Dubai Shopping Festival runs from January 4 to February 4. For more information, visit www.mydsf.ae or call Ahlan Dubai on 600545555.
