Global Village in Dubai has opened its 31st season, unveiling a range of new attractions and experiences under the theme “A More Wonderful World.” The popular cultural and entertainment destination officially started its festivities at 6 p.m. with a choir performance followed by a Parade of the World, showcasing performers representing diverse cultures from around the globe. Dubai residents and tourists gathered early, with some arriving hours in advance to secure their spot.
Rami Mashnini, Vice President of Operations at Global Village, highlighted the expansive scope of this year’s offerings. The site features 29 pavilions representing the stories and cultures of 90 cities, alongside more than 250 retail kiosks and a variety of food and beverage outlets, including restaurants and coffee shops. The park will host over 40,000 shows throughout the season, catering to all age groups. The carnival area is set to include more than 200 rides and attractions, underscoring the destination’s appeal for family outings during Dubai’s cooler months.
Fernando Eiroa, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Entertainment, emphasized Global Village’s significance as a cultural and social hub. He noted that the venue has become a cherished tradition for families and friends and reflects the multicultural spirit of the UAE by fostering connections across communities and cultures.
Among the notable changes this season is the introduction of a standalone pavilion for Sri Lanka, which had previously shared space within the Bangladesh pavilion. Visitors can now explore a wide range of Sri Lankan handicrafts, clothing, beauty products, and tea offerings. Jacintha, a tea stall operator at the Sri Lanka pavilion, expressed enthusiasm about the new setup, noting that it allows visitors to experience the country’s renowned tea directly.
Other pavilions to watch include newly refreshed facades for Syria and Kuwait. In an effort to engage younger visitors, Global Village has introduced redesigned Season 31 Passports and a new Kids Passport, enabling children to collect stamps as they visit different pavilions, adding an interactive component to their exploration and providing a keepsake.
Food remains a key attraction, with several new dining options available in Restaurant Plaza, including Trazon Turkish Restaurant, Robo Al Sham, Hawawshi Al Rabie, and Clicking. Visitors can enjoy a diverse culinary experience while watching carnival performances. New cafés such as Vinci Dolci, Emir Bey Gourmet, and Zungulo Café offer coffee and desserts, complementing the returning Dessert District, which has been refreshed for the season.
For those seeking entertainment beyond shopping and dining, Carnival returns with its extensive lineup of rides and games. Signature attractions such as Dragon Kingdom, The Horror Hotel, Secrets of the Lost City, and Expo Planet City remain available. The Festival Wheel has also been updated with new carts, providing visitors with panoramic views of the park.
Global Village Season 31 continues to attract both residents and tourists, maintaining its reputation as a premier destination for cultural exchange, entertainment, and family-friendly fun throughout Dubai’s peak leisure season.