RIYADH, 22 October 2006 — The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that Eid-Al Fitr prayers will be held at 6:10 a.m. tomorrow in 56 mosques in addition to Eid grounds in different parts of the capital.

Arrangements have also been made to conduct prayers at open spaces in Sulaimaniyah, Deerah and Manfuha with special arrangements for women.

In a statement yesterday, the Department of Mosques at the ministry has said that imams and those responsible for the maintenance of the mosques should ensure that all arrangements, including adequate supplies of water and power. Alternative arrangements have been made at other mosques in case of rain preventing prayers in the open areas.

Meanwhile, the Riyadh Municipality has made arrangements for organizing Eid Al-Fitr festivities in different parts of the capital. They include 22 traditional folklore programs that will be performed daily at the Maskmak Fort during the Eid holidays.

There will also be firework displays at seven different locations in Riyadh illuminating the skyline from 9:15 p.m. to 9:25 p.m. during the three days. Other highlights include camel caravans, fireworks, Saudi folklore dancing, rally racing, circus, a children’s cinema, Playstation competitions and live plays, among other attractions.

Major hypermarkets have launched promotional campaigns to attract customers who now have more options than in the past.

Asked about the impact of this competition on prices, Pervez Ali, a customer service manager of a major hypermarket here, said the prices remain competitive, since the customers are well informed of the price range.

His hypermarket has announced two major draws as part of its promotional drive. In one of them, a Mercedes car will be given away. The winner will be picked by a lucky draw, which will be held on Nov. 1.

In the second category meant for women, the hypermarket is offering jewelry, for which the draw will be held every day till the end of the festivities.

Ali said the incentive program was working well. The items in demand were mainly textile, sweets, nuts and toys. The hypermarket, which is located in an upscale area north of Riyadh, has set up a traditional tent at the entrance to capture the Eid spirit.

Some of these fast-moving items are also on sale at the tent for the convenience of the customers.