DUBAI // Malls in Dubai will stay open around the clock for two weeks starting from October 18 as part of Eid Al Adha festivities.
According to Wam, the state news agency, shops, restaurants, cinemas and arcades will stay open 24 hours a day, an extension from previous plans to run the festivities from October 26 to 29.
It is hoped the extension will bring in a large number of tourists, particularly from the Gulf, who usually add to the Eid rush during the holidays.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who ordered the extension, said he welcomes brothers and sisters from the Gulf and around the world to enjoy the "hospitality and unique culture experience that Dubai will offer this Eid".
"Families are the building blocks of our society, and we want even more of them to enjoy the celebratory spirit of Eid here in Dubai," Sheikh Mohammed said.
Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment board chairman, Mohamed Alabbar, said the extension means that Dubai will be a must stop during Eid.
"Tourism, retail and hospitality are key drivers of Dubai's economy, and continue to record robust growth," he said. "By extending Eid in Dubai celebrations and ensuring the support of the retail, events and hospitality sectors to provide our visitors with round-the-clock service, we have established Dubai as the must-visit destination during Eid Al Adha."
A number of shows are also scheduled for the Eid break, with many of them featuring famous artists.
Wam added that the city will also be "spectacularly illuminated during Eid in Dubai celebrations, with special welcome awaiting visitors from the moment they arrive in Dubai".
But when malls were contacted, they said only mall doors will remain open for the two weeks with a significant extension of working hours.
The Dubai Mall confirmed it will remain open for 24 hours on Thursdays and Fridays. But on weekdays, retail will open only until 1am, food and beverage until 3am, and cinemas until the last screenings.
Eid Al Adha, also known as "the big Eid", is expected to start on October 26.
osalem@thenational.ae