DUBAI - Bagpipes sounded as a barge slid gracefully across the lake by the Festival City before the fireworks and light extravaganza launched the 13th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival 2008 in grand style.

With wild, curly white hair a conductor directed the event from a boat shrouded in smoke while dhows moved spectacularly as pyrotechnics lit up the sky.

The screens behind flashed images of UAE’s heritage until the present day while in the stands the sons of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, watched on. Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, Shaikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated, Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Shaikh Mayed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Shaikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum were all in attendance.

The DSF 2008 opening ceremony heralded 32 days of shopping, prizes and entertainment to be capped each night with fireworks displays.

The popular concept was launched in 1996 and has grown to encompass just over 100 activities and is a major draw for regional and international tourists.

With huge discounts on offer during the month and scores of raffles and prizes up for grabs, it is an important event for retailers in spurring spending by residents and visitors.

Over its 13 editions it has constantly evolved alongside Dubai to be bigger and better.

Some of the highlights this year include a broad array of entertainment for all sections of the population.

Dubai International Jazz Festival, Indian Concert, Arabic Concert and Carlos Santana are among the extended list of shows during the festival.

Global Village will again play host to activities but events will occur across town, including Al Seef Street where the Night Souq, Fun Fair and Bungee Jumping will take place.

The Creek Park will draw people to the Heritage Zone, Digital Festival Zone and Park Market, while at night the streets will be lined with faces gazing to the sky as it lights up with an evening display of fireworks.