Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Dubai? Do you want to explore the cultures, cuisines, and attractions of different countries in one place? If yes, then you should not miss Global Village, the world's largest and most diverse cultural and entertainment destination.
Global Village is a seasonal attraction that runs from October to April every year. It offers visitors a chance to enjoy pavilions, rides, shows, and food from over 90 countries. Whether you are a fan of shopping, dining, entertainment, or culture, you will find something to suit your taste and budget at Global Village.
In this article, we will give you the ultimate guide to Global Village, covering everything you need to know before you visit, such as how to get there, how to buy tickets, what to expect, and what to do. We will also share some tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit. Read on to discover why Global Village is a must-visit attraction in Dubai.
How to Get to Global Village
Global Village is located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Exit 37, Dubai. It is about 30 minutes drive from the city center and 15 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport. You can reach Global Village by car, bus, taxi, or metro.
- By car: You can drive to Global Village using your own car or a rental car. There is a large parking area that can accommodate up to 23,000 vehicles. The parking fee is AED 15 per vehicle. There is also a free shuttle service that runs from the parking area to the main entrance of Global Village.
- By bus: You can take a bus to Global Village from various locations in Dubai, such as Al Ghubaiba, Al Satwa, Al Rashidiya, and Mall of the Emirates. The bus fare is AED 10 per person. The bus service operates from 3:15 pm to 11:15 pm on weekdays and from 3:15 pm to 12:15 am on weekends and public holidays.
- By taxi: You can take a taxi to Global Village from anywhere in Dubai. The taxi fare depends on the distance and the traffic. You can also book a taxi online or by phone using the RTA app or the Careem app. There is a designated taxi drop-off and pick-up point near the main entrance of Global Village.
- By metro: You can take a metro to Global Village from any metro station in Dubai. The nearest metro station to Global Village is Mall of the Emirates. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Global Village. The metro fare depends on the zone and the type of ticket. The metro service operates from 5 am to 12 am on weekdays and from 10 am to 1 am on weekends and public holidays.
How to Buy Tickets for Global Village
There are different types of tickets available for Global Village, such as single entry, multi-entry, VIP, or combo. You can buy tickets online or offline, depending on your preference and convenience.
- Single entry: This is the most common and affordable ticket option for Global Village. It allows you to enter Global Village once on any day of the season. The price of a single entry ticket is AED 15 per person. Children under 3 years, seniors above 65 years, and people of determination can enter for free. You can buy a single entry ticket online through the Global Village website or app, or offline at the ticket counters at the main entrance of Global Village.
- Multi-entry: This is a ticket option for those who want to visit Global Village more than once in a season. It allows you to enter Global Village unlimited times on any day of the season. The price of a multi-entry ticket is AED 120 per person. You can buy a multi-entry ticket online through the Global Village website or app, or offline at the ticket counters at the main entrance of Global Village.
- VIP: This is a ticket option for those who want to enjoy a premium and exclusive experience at Global Village. It allows you to enter Global Village unlimited times on any day of the season, as well as access to the VIP parking area, the VIP entrance, the VIP lounge, and the VIP seats at the World Culture Stage. The price of a VIP ticket is AED 999 per person. You can buy a VIP ticket online through the Global Village website or app, or offline at the VIP ticket counters at the main entrance of Global Village.
- Combo: This is a ticket option for those who want to combine their visit to Global Village with other attractions, such as Ripley's Believe It Or Not!®, Mini World, or Carnaval. It allows you to enter Global Village once on any day of the season, as well as access to the selected attraction. The price of a combo ticket varies depending on the attraction and the number of people. You can buy a combo ticket online through the Global Village website or app, or offline at the ticket counters at the main entrance of Global Village.
All tickets are valid for the entire season. The tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. The tickets are subject to the terms and conditions and the cancellation policy of Global Village.
What to Expect at Global Village
Global Village is open from 4 pm to 12 am on weekdays and from 4 pm to 1 am on weekends and public holidays. The opening and closing dates and timings may vary depending on the weather and the events. You can check the latest updates on the Global Village website or app.
Global Village is a family-friendly destination that welcomes visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. However, there are some rules and regulations that you need to follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Some of the rules and regulations are:
- Dress appropriately and respectfully, according to the local culture and customs. Avoid wearing revealing, offensive, or inappropriate clothing or accessories.
- Follow the instructions and guidelines of the staff and the security personnel at all times. Cooperate with the security checks and the temperature checks at the entrance and inside the destination.
- Wear a face mask and maintain social distancing at all times. Use the hand sanitizers and the disinfection stations available throughout the destination.
- Respect the rights and the privacy of other visitors and the staff. Do not harass, disturb, or offend anyone. Do not take photos or videos without permission.
- Do not bring any prohibited items or substances, such as weapons, drugs, alcohol, or pets. Do not smoke or vape inside the destination, except in the designated areas.
- Do not litter or damage any property or facility inside the destination. Dispose of your waste properly and use the recycling bins provided.
- Do not engage in any illegal, immoral, or unethical activities inside the destination. Do not violate any laws or regulations of the UAE.
Global Village offers a range of guest services and amenities to enhance your visit, such as:
- Wheelchair rental: You can rent a wheelchair for free at the guest service centers near the main entrance and the VIP entrance of Global Village. You need to present a valid ID and a deposit of AED 200, which will be refunded when you return the wheelchair.
- Prayer rooms: You can use the prayer rooms for free at the guest service centers near the main entrance and the VIP entrance of Global Village. The prayer rooms are separate for men and women and are equipped with ablution facilities and prayer mats.
- ATMs: You can withdraw cash from the ATMs located near the main entrance and the VIP entrance of Global Village. The ATMs accept major debit and credit cards and dispense UAE dirhams.
- Lost and found: You can report or claim any lost or found items at the guest service centers near the main entrance and the VIP entrance of Global Village. The lost and found items are kept for 30 days and then donated to charity.
- First aid: You can get first aid assistance from the medical staff at the medical center near the main entrance of Global Village. The medical center is open during the operating hours of Global Village and is equipped with basic medical equipment and supplies.
Global Village also has a mobile app and a website that provide useful information, features, and offers for visitors, such as:
- Online tickets: You can buy tickets online through the Global Village app or website and avoid the queues at the ticket counters. You can also get discounts and deals on tickets and attractions through the app or website.
- Park map: You can access the park map through the Global Village app or website and navigate your way around the destination. You can also get information on the pavilions, the rides, the shows, and the food outlets through the park map.
- Events calendar: You can access the events calendar through the Global Village app or website and plan your visit according to the events and shows that interest you. You can also get notifications and reminders on the events and shows through the app or website.
- Rewards program: You can join the rewards program through the Global Village app or website and earn points and rewards for every visit and purchase you make at the destination. You can also redeem your points and rewards for tickets, attractions, food, and merchandise through the app or website.
The Pavilions and the Selfie Spots at Global Village
One of the main attractions of Global Village is the pavilions, which are themed structures that represent different countries and regions of the world. There are 27 pavilions at Global Village, each offering authentic products, food, and experiences from their respective cultures. You can shop, dine, and learn at the pavilions, as well as enjoy the entertainment and the ambiance.
- Africa Pavilion: This pavilion showcases the diversity and richness of the African continent, with products, food, and entertainment from 16 countries, such as Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and South Africa. You can find handicrafts, leather goods, spices, perfumes, and more at the pavilion, as well as taste the flavors of African cuisine, such as tagine, couscous, and biryani. You can also enjoy the cultural shows and performances, such as the African drummers, the acrobats, and the fire dancers.
- China Pavilion: This pavilion represents the ancient and modern aspects of China, with products, food, and entertainment from various regions, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. You can shop for silk, porcelain, jade, and more at the pavilion, as well as savor the delicacies of Chinese cuisine, such as dim sum, noodles, and dumplings. You can also watch the spectacular shows and performances, such as the lion dance, the dragon dance, and the kung fu show.
- India Pavilion: This pavilion celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of India, with products, food, and entertainment from different states, such as Rajasthan, Kerala, and Punjab. You can buy textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and more at the pavilion, as well as relish the dishes of Indian cuisine, such as curry, biryani, and chaat. You can also witness the colorful shows and performances, such as the Bollywood dance, the folk dance, and the musical show.
- Japan Pavilion: This pavilion showcases the beauty and innovation of Japan, with products, food, and entertainment from various cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. You can purchase electronics, anime, manga, and more at the pavilion, as well as enjoy the treats of Japanese cuisine, such as sushi, ramen, and mochi. You can also see the amazing shows and performances, such as the samurai show, the ninja show, and the origami show.
The pavilions are not only places to shop, dine, and learn, but also places to take selfies and photos. Each pavilion has its own selfie spots and photo opportunities, where you can pose with the landmarks, the monuments, and the characters of the respective cultures. Some of the selfie spots and photo opportunities are:
- The Eiffel Tower at the France Pavilion
- The Taj Mahal at the India Pavilion
- The Great Wall of China at the China Pavilion
- The Statue of Liberty at the America Pavilion
The Shows and the Events at Global Village
Another main attraction of Global Village is the shows and the events, which are themed performances, concerts, and festivals that take place at the World Culture Stage and other venues. There are over 40 shows and events at Global Village, each featuring different genres and themes, such as music, dance, comedy, drama, etc. You can watch the shows and the events for free with your entry ticket, as well as participate in some of them.
Some of the shows and the events at Global Village are:
- Viva Bollywood: This is a musical show that celebrates the glamour and the energy of Bollywood, the Indian film industry. It features a cast of talented singers, dancers, and actors, who perform songs and scenes from popular Bollywood movies. The show is a feast for the eyes and the ears, with colorful costumes, catchy tunes, and dazzling choreography.
- Global Village Parade: This is a parade that showcases the diversity and the unity of Global Village, with participants from all the pavilions, the rides, the shows, and the events. It features floats, vehicles, props, and performers, who march and dance along the streets of Global Village. The parade is a spectacle of joy and fun, with music, lights, and confetti.
- Circus Circus: This is a circus show that displays the skills and the talents of the circus artists, who perform acts of acrobatics, juggling, balancing, and more. It features clowns, magicians, animals, and stuntmen, who entertain and amaze the audience with their tricks and stunts. The show is a thrill for the whole family, with laughter, suspense, and applause.
- Fiesta de Mexico: This is a festival that celebrates the culture and the spirit of Mexico, with food, music, and entertainment from the Latin American country. It features stalls, booths, and carts, where you can taste the dishes and the drinks of Mexican cuisine, such as tacos, burritos, and margaritas. It also features stages, arenas, and platforms, where you can watch and join the performances and the activities of Mexican entertainment, such as mariachi, salsa, and lucha libre.
The Dining Options at Global Village
Another main attraction of Global Village is the dining options, which are themed food outlets that offer diverse cuisines and dining experiences from different countries and regions of the world. There are over 200 dining options at Global Village, each serving different types and categories of food, such as street food, fast food, casual dining, fine dining, etc. You can eat, drink, and enjoy at the dining options, as well as discover new flavors and dishes.
Some of the dining options at Global Village are:
- Bosnian House: This is a restaurant that serves the authentic and delicious food of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a Balkan country. It offers a variety of dishes, such as cevapi, burek, baklava, and more, as well as a cozy and warm ambiance, with wooden furniture, traditional music, and friendly staff.
- Thai Fruit Hut: This is a kiosk that offers the fresh and juicy fruits of Thailand, a Southeast Asian country. It offers a selection of fruits, such as mango, pineapple, coconut, and more, as well as a refreshing and healthy experience, with ice, sugar, and lime, and colorful umbrellas, baskets, and signs.
- Turkish Ice Cream: This is a cart that offers the creamy and tasty ice cream of Turkey, a Eurasian country. It offers a variety of flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, and more, as well as a fun and entertaining experience, with tricks, jokes, and surprises, and a cone, a spoon, and a hat.
- Yemeni Village: This is a restaurant that serves the traditional and flavorful food of Yemen, an Arabian country. It offers a range of dishes, such as mandi, haneeth, salta, and more, as well as a rustic and elegant ambiance, with clay pots, copper trays, and lanterns.
The dining options are not only places to eat, drink, and enjoy, but also places to review and rate. Each dining option has its own reviews and ratings, where you can read and write feedback and comments from other visitors and the staff. You can also find tips and recommendations on the best dishes, the best times, and the best deals at each dining option.
The Carnaval and the Rides at Global Village
Another main attraction of Global Village is the Carnaval, which is a fun fair that features over 175 rides, games, and attractions for all ages. There are four types and categories of rides at the Carnaval, such as thrill, family, kids, and skill. You can ride, play, and win at the Carnaval, as well as experience the adrenaline and the excitement.
Some of the rides at the Carnaval are:
- Wheel of the World: This is a thrill ride that is the largest observation wheel in the region, with a height of 60 meters and a diameter of 50 meters. It offers a panoramic view of Global Village and Dubai, as well as a breathtaking and exhilarating experience, with 30 cabins, 42 screens, and 16 speakers.
- Miami Surf: This is a family ride that is a giant wave-shaped platform that swings and spins in the air. It offers a simulation of surfing and sailing, as well as a fun and enjoyable experience, with 24 seats, colorful lights, and upbeat music.
- Circus Train: This is a kids ride that is a cute and charming train that travels around a circular track. It offers a journey of imagination and adventure, as well as a cute and charming experience, with 14 carriages, animal figures, and circus sounds.
- Haunted House: This is a skill ride that is a spooky and scary house that challenges you to shoot the ghosts and the monsters. It offers a test of your accuracy and courage, as well as a spooky and scary experience, with 16 guns, 32 targets, and 64 effects.
The rides are not free with your entry ticket, but require tokens to access. You can buy tokens at the token machines or the token booths at the Carnaval. The price of a token is AED 2, and the number of tokens required for each ride varies from 4 to 12. You can also buy a Wonder Pass, which is a prepaid card that allows you to access the rides without tokens. The price of a Wonder Pass varies from AED 100 to AED 500, depending on the number of credits you want.
The Other Attractions at Global Village
Another main attraction of Global Village is the other attractions, which are themed attractions that offer unique and special experiences to the visitors. There are four other attractions at Global Village, such as Ripley's Believe It Or Not!®, Mini World, Park Map, and Guest Services. You can visit, explore, and enjoy the other attractions, as well as learn and discover new things.
Some of the other attractions at Global Village are:
- Ripley's Believe It Or Not!®: This is an attraction that displays amazing artefacts, oddities, and interactive exhibits from around the world. It offers a glimpse of the weird and wonderful world of Robert Ripley, the explorer and collector who traveled to over 200 countries and documented his discoveries. You can see and touch the exhibits, such as the shrunken heads, the two-headed calf, the upside-down car, and more. The price of a ticket for Ripley's Believe It Or Not!® is AED 40 per person.
- Mini World: This is an attraction that allows you to explore miniature replicas of famous landmarks and monuments from around the world. It offers a chance to travel and learn about the history and culture of different countries and regions, such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and America. You can see and admire the models, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, the Statue of Liberty, and more. The price of a ticket for Mini World is AED 25 per person.
- Park Map: This is an attraction that provides a visual representation of the layout and location of the different attractions and facilities at Global Village. It offers a convenient and easy way to navigate and plan your visit, as well as to find the information and the directions you need. You can access the park map through the Global Village app or website, or through the printed maps available at the guest service centers and the information kiosks.
- Guest Services: This is an attraction that provides a range of amenities and services that enhance your visit, such as wheelchair rental, prayer rooms, ATMs, lost and found, first aid, and more. It offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors, regardless of their needs and preferences. You can access the guest services through the guest service centers near the main entrance and the VIP entrance of Global Village, or through the staff and the security personnel.
The other attractions are not free with your entry ticket, but require tickets to access. You can buy tickets for the other attractions online through the Global Village website or app, or offline at the ticket counters at the main entrance of Global Village or at the entrance of each attraction. The prices and the validity of the tickets vary depending on the attraction and the season. The tickets are subject to the terms and conditions and the cancellation policy of Global Village and the respective attractions.
Conclusion
Global Village is a world of wonder and fun in Dubai, where you can experience the cultures, cuisines, and attractions of different countries and regions in one place. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves shopping, dining, entertainment, or culture. It is also a great place to spend quality time with your family, friends, or partner, as there is something for everyone at Global Village.
If you are planning to visit Global Village, make sure to book your tickets online in advance, as they may sell out fast. Also, check the weather and the events before you visit, as they may affect your visit. And don't forget to download the Global Village app or visit the Global Village website for more information, features, and offers.
