By Editor, GoDubai.com

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Foundation for Events Management and Organisation attended the Opening Ceremony of Dubai Summer Surprises 2008 that got underway at the Dubai Dolphinarium on June 19. The event marked the beginning of 65 days of summer festivities till August 22.

The Dubai Dolphinarium provided for a fitting venue to the DSS 2008 Opening Ceremony as dolphin shows combined with stunning laser and sound effects not only indicated a high standard of events for this year but sent out a clear message on the need to conserve natural resources and promote sustainable development.

The ceremony was attended by Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Shopping Festival Office; Ibrahim Saleh, General Coordinator of DSF Office; and a host of other dignitaries and officials, in addition to local, regional, and international media.

Laila Suhail said, “Dubai Summer Surprises has had a profound impact on numerous spheres of daily life touching economy, society, and industry, as examples. With DSS 2008, we have gone a step ahead to influence awareness on another important issue in our lives today – and that is environment.”

“The Opening today heralds a new era for DSS, especially in terms of Tens of Surprises which is the new entertainment concept designed to cater to diverse visitor segments spanning all age categories and nationalities. Through DSS 2008, we further strive to achieve our main goal which is to promote Dubai as the leading summer destination in the world,” she added.

Ibrahim Saleh said, “As one among the new tourism initiatives in Dubai, the Dubai Dolphinarium was a natural choice to hold the DSS 2008 Opening Ceremony. By doing so, we show our commitment in collaborating with innovative projects ultimately aimed at promoting Dubai as one among the preferred tourism destinations. Furthermore, our focus on environment this year perfectly blends in with the theme of the Dubai Dolphinarium which is to preserve nature.”

The show began with a sound clip highlighting the importance of oceans and water bodies and the importance of these natural resources for sustenance on land. This was followed by a video that took the audience on a deep sea journey starting with pearl diving in UAE and exploring the endless number of sea creatures.

The display also had its glamorous side with brilliant laser and sound effects along with a spectacular synchronized underwater ballet. Audiences also had the opportunity to view a unique 3-D show on marine life where special glasses were handed over to visitors and an underwater atmosphere complete with sea animals was recreated.

The ceremony ended with a magnificent show of dolphins and sea lions. The trained mammals displayed a variety of tricks that kept audiences spell bound.