20 million lights will be lit for DSF '2001. Advertising has gotten the crowd in eager anticipation for some of the best bargains in the world.

DSF '2001 is the sixth Shopping Festival in a row. Initiated in 1996, this festival aims to give residents and tourists alike one of the best shopping experiences in the world coupled with family entertainment and opportunities to win a gamut of prizes that include several kilos of gold and Nissan vehicles every day. Shopping malls also have individual give-aways ranging from Lexus cars and gold to cash prizes and air tickets.

The theme, this year, is One World, One Family , One Festival.

Visa rules are fairly well outlined in our entering Dubai link. People who wish to stop over at Dubai for less than 4 days can get a transit visa provided they have a confirmed onward reservation within the deadline of 96 hours from the time of arrival in the UAE. Information is available at the URL above. Passengers flying Emirates could get their visit visas processed by the airlines in Dubai if any relative is a resident in the country and is willing to sponsor them. It is advisable, however, to cross check all visa information with the airlines before you travel as rules are always subject to change.

Over 300 activities have been planned by the DSF committee to keep people enthralled for 31 days. There's a good mix of sports for the adventure lovers, children's theatre, Walt Disney entertainment and games for children, giant rides and film shows for adults, amazing discounts and raffles for shoppers and an exotic spread of local and international cuisines to cater to the palate.

If you enjoy watching cultural programmes or intend to shop for ethnic jewellery, bead work and traditional Arab and Asian wear, we recommend a visit to the Global Village. Be prepared to spend a whole day at this hustling and bustling congregation of worldwide pavilions. A visit to the Dubai Creek Park will be relaxing and appropriate after shopping at the Global village as both places are located close to each other. The Aqua Fantasia show held every night at the park is a must-see for first timers.

Got another minute? Don't forget to go shopping. Get some of the best bargains at the DSF sales outlets, where products ranging from clothes, foot wear and jewellery to electrical goods, furniture, computers and automobiles are available.

Horse lovers, don't miss out on the richest horse race in the world, the Dubai World Cup.

Much of the history of this city began at the Creek and 3 kilometers around it. The past has been recreated beautifully at the Dubai Museum, thanks to modern technology. A place worth visiting.

Reserve all your shopping and fun for the mornings and nights. Although most outlets are closed between 1 and 4 pm, shopping malls will remain open all day.
For up-to-date answers, you should call DSF's "Ahlan Dubai" service on 090 40099. International callers may call 00971 - 9040099. Phone cards are available in denominations of Dhs. 30, 50 and 100 at all supermarkets, road side cafeterias and other retail outlets.

* Ahlan Wa Sahlan means welcome in Arabic.
* Souk is the popular word for market.