Charity bazaar held at Dusit Dubai

The bazaar, which started nearly 36 years ago and has now become a tradition, saw people of all nationalities thronging to various stalls which housed jewellary, hand crafted articles, christmas decorations, clothes, baked goods, carpets, cosmetics and books. Many of the displayed goods were from a variety of countries such as China, Korea, Britain, Turkey, Lebanon, India and Pakistan, making it a truly cosmopolitan affair.

Speaking to Khaleej Times about the huge turnout Amal Haroub, President of DIWC said: "It is extremely heart warming to see big numbers for this event which has become one of the most awaited events of the year. All the proceeds would be going to the Dubai Autism Centre and the Dubai Centre for Special Needs." Many of the people who visited the bazaar saw it an opportunity to garner some exquisitely hand-crafted Christmas decorations

. Marie Rose, a housewife said: "Every year I come to the bazaar for my Xmas shopping and this time too I wasn't disappointed. I think it is a great idea where you can buy things as well as donate to charity," she said.

Many upcoming artistes also found the bazaar as an opportunity to showcase their works and to make new contacts.

Merly. M. Das said, "I took part in the bazaar as it was a good opportunity to meet new people and to showcase my works. Since I don't have a shop, I met quite a few people here who were interested and even placed some orders for my works."

Various charitable organisatons participated in the event such as Medecins Sans Frontieres, Lebanese Children's Fund, Al Noor Centre, Dubai Centre for Special Needs, Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre and Palestinian Cultural Heritage.

The DIWC is the oldest women's organisation in the UAE with over 350 members from 43 different nationalities. The members hold regular social and charitable activities. Talks on various subjects are also held regularly at the club's premises in Jumairah.