This time last year, nobody would have predicted that the world would soon be rocked by a global financial crisis. As businesses go over the sales figures, records for the past year, many have unfortunately seen huge slumps and or closure in some instances. For Al Qasba however, their figures are relatively good. Having recently revealed the fact that they have seen a steady influx of tourists despite predictions it would be a slow summer, it seems that Al Qasba had a pretty lucky escape. Whilst last year, between January and July 2008 Al Qasba attracted 64,404 visitors, this year the figures were practically the same, albeit four more visitors.  Although it could be said that Al Qasba were just lucky as they saw a great deal of tourists from neighbouring countries, namely Oman, KSA and Qatar, the other side of the story suggests that it was the result of their hard work and aggressive marketing that made their ‘Big House of Fun’ a huge success this year. Other activities and attractions that have  proved popular and a have become a key aspect in Al Qasba’s ongoing success as the main tourist destination in Sharjah include; the Abras, range of restaurants, Eye of the Emirates Ferris Wheel, The Fountain, The Kids area, walkway and regular events. Established by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, Al Qasba has evolved into a complete destination with a mission to establish a strong tourist destination in an emirate already known for its cultural diversity, liveliness and vibrancy. It has become a place where visitors can just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet and tranquility that Al Qasba is so famous for.
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The Big House of Fun 2009 has concluded its one month of summer activities at Al Qasba, having attracted over 8,000 children this summer.

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Canadian based MAD Science Group to entertain kids at Al Qasba’s Big House of Fun this month

This week, visitors of Al Qasba will have the chance to take part in the Big House of Fun Mad Science show activities, Read the full story

In its third week, the Big House of Fun is still the hub for all family members that are looking for fun in the heat of the summer. So far it has attracted over 5000 visitors from all across the Emirates. Providing activities to entertain all family members, the Big House of Fun has already organized a variety of workshops, stage shows, and competitions.

To compliment on its educative activities, and in an aim to foster the love for science by children of all ages, this week, the Big House of Fun is organizing daily quiz sessions.

The quizzes were developed to stimulate and entertain children from the age of 6-17. Divided into two different categories, 6-12 and 13-17, the quizzes will feature questions in subjects such as biology, history geography, art, and science.

Daily winners in the category 6-12 will be awarded with books donated by Kalimat Publishing and distribution, the first publishing house in the UAE dedicated solely to publishing and distributing the highest quality children’s books, while winners in the category 13-17 will receive shopping vouchers.

Dina Al Nakhi, Events Manager at Al Qasba Development Authority said:

“Kids often look forward to the summer break because it promises to be packed with distractions, diversions and no homework, Quizzes like the ones the Big House of Fun offers encourage continued learning in a motivating, fun and entertaining environment. The Big House of Fun Quizzes are a great way for children to stay sharp over the summer.”

The “Big House of Fun” activities are being held daily until July 25th in a special air-conditioned tent from 5 pm -11 pm. The tent is divided into various sections, namely the stage, the fun zone and shops’ section, which various sections where educational workshops are held, educating children as well as adults on the importance of adopting environmental friendly approaches, teaching them various scientific facts about the earth, as well as holding Art and craft workshops.

For more information please visit www.alqasba.ae

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About Al Qasba Development Authority

Al Qasba Development Authority was established as per the directives of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to oversee the development of Al Qasba, into an impressive entertainment, leisure and cultural hub of the Middle East. Chaired by H.E Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qassimi, the Authority seeks to reinforce the Emirate position as the cultural capital of the region and promote the flow of learning and information within specific disciplines. On March 2008, Qanat Al Qasba was re-branded as Al Qasba.

For further information, please contact

Randa Kamal

O2 Public Relations

Tel: 050 188 97 44  or

Email: randa.k@o2pr.net

Representative from Sharjah’s Natural and Botanical Museum highlight how to preserve and protect the UAE’s species and natural environment this month at Al Qasba’s ‘Big House of Fun’ Read the full story