History lovers will have a field day this week as a series of heritage exhibitions and shows will be held to spice up the Heritage Surprises, the ninth weekly themed activities of Dubai Summer Surprises.

The week kicked off at the Mall of the Emirates yesterday with a traditional opening ceremony that featured lively performances by folkloric bands from different emirates, a fitting tribute to the UAE's Arab heritage.

Dubai Customs, this week's organiser, has also lined up a number of entertaining activities that will run until August 23 to showcase the rich cultural past of the UAE.

"The visitors will get a glimpse of the past," the DSS Media Centre said in a statement.

During the week, a group of performers who recreated a scene from old folktales at the opening ceremony yesterday will tour all participating shopping malls.

From 5 pm to 10 pm, the Mall of the Emirates will host Warsh Fareej Al Dagaya workshop, the Heritage of Al Khawaneej Oasis and the Jumairah Heritage workshop.

The mall will also host a historical fashion show, a historical buildings show and a history gallery by Dubai Municipality. A traditional café and several folk games await mall visitors as well.

Activities at Deira City Centre, include the Birza Al Shawab and the Khorfakkan marine crafts, Masfoot heritage performances and a folkloric fashion show.

Several other heritage activities will take place at Hamarain Centre. Al Ghurair City will host Al Raifa Village activities, Falaj Al Muala exhibition, marine Yawara exhibition and folk games.

BurJuman will feature Wadi Ghalila activities, Shaam Sails activities, Al Sharia place, Ibn Majid Heritage workshop and a number of other activities reflecting the mountain heritage. The activities in Mercato will showcase Al Akamiya houses, the Heritage Friday Market, Al Krain house, Al Dahreez heritage exhibition, Birzat al Shayeb and the memory oasis.

The Dubai International Airport will be the venue of a series of activities such as Birzat Al Shoub, from 10am to 10pm, and the Falcons exhibition, from 3 to 10pm.