‘E88 Market’ at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC) in Sharjah is a family destination that encourages children and young adults to take part in engaging activities and spend time with their families. The event that will run until January 4th, previously attracted 10,000 visitors in its first edition last year.
Hanan Al Mahmoud, CEO of Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre
As well as being a family destination E88 Market is a platform for entrepreneurs and businessmen and women to showcase their products and network with other participating businesses and potential clients.
Art performances and Culinary workshops for kids
Here we talk exclusively with Hanan Al Mahmoud, CEO of JRCC who talks through the vision of this platform and the social impact it has on the community.
What are the key features of the second edition of the ‘E88 Market’ Food and Shopping Festival?
This year, the festival will be bigger in size and duration. It will run for three weeks from December 15 – January 4 during the winter break to allow families across the UAE a chance to enjoy a jam-packed programme featuring outdoor food, fun activities and shopping.
Another key feature of the ‘E88 Market’ – which is also a prime reason in creating this event – is to provide businesses in the leisure and lifestyle, art and craft, F&B and entertainment segments gain exposure to thousands of visitors from all age groups and nationalities.
Art performances and Culinary workshops for kids
How do recreational activities contribute to the social and economic development of Sharjah?
Sharjah’s recent win of the UNICEF Child-Friendly City Initiative is a significant achievement in the city’s ongoing efforts to foster a nurturing environment for its upcoming generations. Under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and under the patronage of his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, the emirate has become a role model in the region and the world for the young generation to grow, learn and unleash their creativity in a safe and lively environment.
Recreational events like ‘E88 Market’ do have a social and educational impact as they are designed to stimulate children’s imagination, assist in their mental and physical development, and instil a culture of teamwork and participation based on the values of love, cooperation and respect for others.
Art performances and Culinary workshops for kids
What main factors guided the preparation of the second edition of E88?
After the first edition of ‘E88 Market’ in November last year, we received valuable feedback from visitors, and have incorporated many of their suggestions within this edition, including a change of the festival’s date to align with the winter break, as well as extending the duration.
The majority of families told us that their children took part in activities they had never experienced before. Parents were also happy to discover hidden, inherent talents of their children. The children, meanwhile, voiced their happiness on spending quality time with their parents and connecting with them, and showcasing their talents.
In this edition, we have therefore increased activities that call for participation of both parents and children, to maximise the time they spend together.
Art performances and Culinary workshops for kids
What is the social impact of ‘E88 Market’ Food and Shopping Festival?
Many research studies point to the negative effects of the use of smart devices on family relationships as children report feeling ‘unimportant’ when parents are hooked to digital devices.
‘E88 Market’ is our contribution to help this disconnect. The event’s interactive edutainment activities are designed to nurture stronger communication and emotional bonding between parents and children. It will also create lasting, happy memories, and boost character building through parents’ involvement in the lives of their children.
‘E88 Market’ Food and Shopping Festival runs from December 15 to January 4 from 4pm to 11pm at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC).
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