Global Village, Dubai’s iconic multicultural festival park, returns for its 29th season, more extravagant and vibrant than ever. Since its humble beginnings in 1997, it has transformed into a unique destination where cultures converge, showcasing diverse traditions, flavors, and entertainment.
This season, running from October 16, 2024, to May 11, 2025, brings more than just the familiar sights, there’s a fresh lineup of pavilions, thrilling attractions, and dining options that push the boundaries of entertainment.
In this article, discover the new highlights, including unique cultural showcases, mouthwatering foods, and exciting activities that make this season an unmissable adventure.
New Pavilions
In its 29th season, Global Village introduces a more diverse and engaging experience with the addition of three new cultural pavilions, bringing the total count to 30 and celebrating over 90 cultures. This year, you can explore the rich traditions of Jordan, Iraq, and the combined Sri Lanka and Bangladesh pavilion. Each of these new pavilions offers unique themed facades and showcases authentic items that represent the heritage of these regions.
The Jordan Pavilion invites you to immerse yourself in its vibrant culture with offerings such as locally produced olive oil and intricate mosaic art. Over at the Iraq Pavilion, expect to find exquisite calligraphy, traditional ceramics, and workshops that highlight the country’s craft traditions. The Sri Lanka and Bangladesh Pavilion features an array of spices, fabrics, and handcrafted items, providing a sensory journey through these South Asian countries.
Returning favorites include the India Pavilion, known for its lively marketplace filled with colorful textiles and jewelry, and the UAE Pavilion, which proudly displays the nation’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. Other standout pavilions include those representing Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, and many more, each with its own unique offerings of cultural performances, food stalls, and shopping experiences.
The beloved Road of Asia also returns this year, housing vendors from countries like Malaysia, Brunei, Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines, giving you even more reasons to wander and discover the diverse cultures of Asia in one spot.
New Attractions
Season 29 of Global Village is packed with thrilling new attractions that add excitement to the already vibrant park. While fan favorites like the Carnaval, with its more than 200 rides and games, and the popular House of Fear haunted experience return, new additions this year are set to capture even more attention.
A major highlight for 2024-2025 is the Cyber City Danger Zone, a dedicated theater for the park's famous stunt shows. Featuring gravity-defying tricks and electrifying performances, this attraction is impossible to miss, with its towering robot entrance and LED lights that enhance the futuristic theme. Shows are hosted three times daily, except on Mondays, and tickets start at AED 20 per show.
For those who love a good challenge, the Secrets of the Lost City is a must-try. This new treasure hunt adventure, set in a Mayan world, invites visitors aged 10 and above to solve mysteries and discover hidden artifacts. Created by Cave Entertainment, the masterminds behind the UAE’s popular BlackOut escape rooms, this attraction promises a unique and immersive experience.
Another upcoming addition to watch for is Exo City Planet, which is expected to offer adventures suitable for the whole family. Although it has yet to open, it’s already generating excitement as a key feature of the season.
For a magical evening, don't miss the Dragon Lake, which returns this year with a dragon twice the size of last season's, showcasing a dazzling laser and light show. The 3D projection inside the Gate of the World exit dome is another new visual spectacle that adds to the immersive experience.
These new attractions, along with classic features like the Road of Asia and the reimagined Fiesta Street with its double-story kiosks, make this season of Global Village an unforgettable blend of thrill, mystery, and entertainment.
New Restaurants
One of the standout additions for Season 29 is the brand-new Restaurant Plaza, located next to the Carnaval area. This dining hub features 11 two-story restaurants, offering not just a feast of flavors but also spectacular views of live performances on the central stage. From traditional dishes to fusion cuisine, the Restaurant Plaza serves up a wide variety of global delights, making it an essential stop for food enthusiasts.
Alongside the new plaza, Fiesta Street has been revamped to include double-story kiosks, providing an expanded dining experience with even more options to explore. Classic favorites like the Railway Market and the Floating Market have also been redesigned, incorporating fresh themes and more interactive food stalls. Here, you can savor returning staples like the Bosnian kebab and pineapple fried rice or venture out and try the newer additions like the ramen burger from Dip It on Fiesta Street or the Saganaki bite, a Greek-inspired treat with watermelon and feta.
If you’re looking for something sweet, the chocolate pistachio croissant at Croffee on Happiness Street is a must-try, perfectly pairing indulgent flavors with a delightful crunch. For a more classic taste, the smash burgers with truffle or spicy sauce are crowd-pleasers that will satisfy any craving.
The diversity of dining options ensures there is always something new and exciting to taste, making each visit a unique culinary adventure. With the addition of the Restaurant Plaza and enhanced dining streets, the 2024-2025 season promises to elevate Global Village’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise.
New Entertainment
Global Village is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, and the 29th season raises the bar with more than 40,000 live performances scheduled throughout its run. This year, a mix of new shows and beloved favorites are set to entertain audiences of all ages.
A highlight of the new season is The Legend of The Staff, a family-friendly musical that features the park's beloved mascots Ozka, Waleef, and Zoya. This captivating story follows their quest to uncover the truth behind a legendary staff said to possess teleportation powers. For those who enjoy high-energy spectacles, the Cyber City Danger Zone stunt show promises a pulse-pounding experience with dazzling feats, complete with flying bikes, LED-lit police cars, and even a tank.
The main stage will be buzzing with cultural performances, from Palestinian dabke to South Korean samgomu drumming, offering a truly global experience. The Kids’ Theatre will also keep the little ones engaged with the return of popular shows such as PJ Masks, Peter Rabbit, and Octonauts, alongside circus acts like Circus Circus and Amazing Clowns.
Adding to the excitement, the Aainja street drumming group from Bogota, composed of 30 spirited drummers, will be making their debut. Their infectious rhythm and energy are sure to have everyone tapping their feet. Roaming entertainers, including the lively Bollywood Flash Mob dancers, will add spontaneous moments of fun throughout the park.
Don't forget to stop by the Dragon Lake for its mesmerizing laser show, featuring a dragon that is double the size of last years and a show that blends lights, smoke, and flames for a magical visual treat. Whether it's the main stage or street performances, the new entertainment lineup ensures that every corner of Global Village is filled with music, movement, and joy.
Important Information
To make the most of your visit to Global Village this season, here are the essential details:
Opening Hours: Global Village is open daily from 4 pm to midnight, Sunday through Wednesday, and until 1 am from Thursday to Saturday. Tuesdays are reserved exclusively for families and ladies, except on public holidays.
Ticket Prices: Entry tickets are priced at AED 25 for weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) and AED 30 for weekends (Friday and Saturday). Children under the age of three, seniors above 65, and people of determination can enter for free, although a free ticket needs to be acquired online or at the gate.
Location: Global Village is located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) in Dubailand, Dubai. It is easily accessible via Exit 37.
Getting There: The most convenient way to reach Global Village is by car, with over 20,000 parking spaces available, including free general parking (P1 and P2) and VIP parking options starting from AED 120 per day. For public transport users, the Dubai Road Transport Authority (RTA) has resumed bus services with the following routes:
- Bus 102 from Rashidiya Metro Station
- Bus 103 from Union Metro Station via Al Rebat Street
- Bus 104 from Ghubaiba Bus Station via Al Jafiliya Metro Station
- Bus 106 from Mall of the Emirates Metro Station via Al Barsha and Al Quoz
- Bus 107 from Al Nahda 1 Bus Station
Best Time to Visit: To enjoy a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on weekdays when the crowds are lighter. For those who love lively atmospheres, weekends offer extended hours and special events like the firework shows every Friday and Saturday at 9 pm.
This season at Global Village promises unmatched excitement, from new cultural pavilions and thrilling attractions to mouthwatering food and world-class performances. It’s the perfect time to explore, have fun, and create unforgettable memories.
Make your way to Global Village before May 11, 2025, and experience the magic that keeps everyone coming back year after year. Don’t miss out—your next adventure awaits!
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