DSF 2010 promises a slew of promotions

In these recession-tinged times, the easiest way to get yourself a pair of wheels seems to be the Dubai Shopping Festival.

The event, which is in its 15th edition this year, is raffling off a whopping 80 cars and Dh3 million in cash over its 32-day run, from January 28 to February 28.

More than 150 international and regional events will be held in the UAE over that period, according to a statement from the organisers, the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE).

Laila Suhail, DEPE CEO, said: "The event brings its trademark festivities back to the Emirate's roads, particularly areas such as Al Seef, Dhiyafah and Rigga. "

More than 6,000 retail outlets and nearly 50 malls and shopping centres are expected to roll out spectacular promotions over the month.

Around 3.35 million visitors spent approximately Dh9.8 billion over the 32 days of DSF 2009, the DEPE said. The figures represent a 4.6 per cent increase in visitors and a two per cent decrease in spending over the previous year.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Dubai Shopping Festival Supreme Committee, said: "The results of DSF 2009 were notably consistent considering the volatile global economic climate at the time of the festival. It goes to prove the unshakable popularity of DSF, and that Dubai will always be an attractive shopping and tourism destination for tourists. The results of DSF 2009 are a testimony that DSF can motivate the retail and tourism sectors in Dubai against all odds."

Citing research by an independent firm, Suhail said consumer behaviour had changed dramatically over DSF 2009 with consumers on strict spending budgets.

She put the drop in consumer spending down to the steep discounts and promotions offered by retailers.

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