DAMMAM, 11 August 2003 — The Eastern Province Summer Festival 24 ended Friday night amid fanfare at Half Moon Beach, Al-Rashid Mall and in Al-Ahsa and Jubail.
During the five weeks of the festival, numerous cultural and entertainment events were organized at different locations. Initially the festival was scheduled for one month but due to public demand, it was extended by a week.
The festival began this year when Prince Abdul Aziz ibn Fahd ibn Abdullah, chairman of Eastern Province Tourism, opened several events around the province.
The festival was organized by Eastern Province Tourism in cooperation with the Eastern Province Chambers of Commerce and Industry and was sponsored by companies and business groups in the region.
A general perception is that similar festivals could also be held in spring and winter when the weather is better. Businessmen agree that visa rules for tourists have to be made more flexible so that more visitors can attend.
A local businessman said that the authorities could allow expats of certain income groups to bring their immediate relatives into the Kingdom.
“If these measures were taken, then there is no doubt that such festivals in the Eastern Province would prove tough competition to Dubai, which thrives on such events,” he said.
