ABU DHABI // A line-up of Arab and European artists, famous comedians, illusionists and live concerts are all set to be part of this year’s Abu Dhabi Summer Season.
The entertainment extravaganza – which starts on June 11 and ends on September 5 – involves 12 events, 63 performances, hotel offers and promotions across the entire emirate, including Al Ain and Al Gharbia.
Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director of tourism at the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, said it was going to be “a show-packed summer season in Abu Dhabi where every family member will have attractions for their choice”.
“There will be fun for all. We aim to make Abu Dhabi an attractive place to spend summer,” Mr Al Dhaheri said.
The season will feature theatre shows, world-famous illusionist Hans Klok, live international children’s shows such as Shaun The Sheep, Barney, Sesame Street and Mythbusters, as well as Arab and European comedy acts and live concerts.
The authority’s aim is to attract more residents and visitors, particularly from the GCC, India and Europe.
Last year, 786,376 people turned out for the event, an increase of 20 per cent on the previous year.
Mr Al Dhaheri said hotel room occupancy from GCC tourists increased by 25 per cent last year; from Indian tourists 26 per cent; and from Europe 19 per cent. “We saw significant interest in last year’s summer season. Hotel occupancy, with an additional 2,495 hotel rooms, grew by 7 per cent from 2013, and obviously we are aiming to improve on that figure this season,” he said.
Flash, Alchemy Project, YAK Events and MBC Group will deliver a programme packed with headline shows from across the world.
Mr Al Dhaheri said a wide marketing and promotional campaign has been launched across the GCC and India.
“We have partnered with local entities in India to promote Abu Dhabi attractions. Even a concert of popular Indian singing sensation Shreya Ghoshal will be held on August 15,” he said.
The TCA is working with partners including Etihad Airways, Visa, Millennium and Copthorne Hotels and The National's publisher, Abu Dhabi Media.
“We aim to deliver an unforgettable summer season for all the family, with mall activities and the best summer deals around for hotels and attractions,” Mr Al Dhaheri said.
“Abu Dhabi Summer Season 2015 will also feature a mega shopping mall promotion to offer winning opportunities throughout 12 weeks.”
International and regional comedians will descend on Abu Dhabi city during the season and, to celebrate the first night of Eid Al Fitr, Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed Abdo will perform at Yas Island’s Du Forum, while fans of Emirati singer Habeeb Alyasy will be treated to his performances in Al Ain and on Yas Island.
Alexis Djiksterhuis, vice president of strategy at Flash Entertainment, said: “This is the third year we have worked with the TCA to assemble a line-up of shows. The line-up of Arabic artists and a side-splitting comedy weekend is sure to dazzle attendees.”
MBC Group will be bringing the much-loved children’s character Shaun the Sheep to life with a series of live shows in Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain.
All the television series characters will be present in the fully choreographed music and dance show.
Ramzi Saleh, MBC3 marketing manager, said: “We are excited to cooperate with TCA and announce the arrival of our latest show represented by the famous brand Shaun the Sheep – for the first time in the UAE. MBC3 is always keen to deliver top-notch educational and entertaining content to Arab children throughout various touch points.”
For more details, visit abudhabisummerseason.ae.
anwar@thenational.ae