1. Dubai’s popular multicultural destination, Global Village, will reopen on Wednesday, October 14, for a new season under the theme ‘A More Wonderful World’, offering international cuisine, cultural experiences and entertainment until May.

    The destination will feature 29 country pavilions representing more than 90 cultures, over 3,500 shopping outlets, 250 dining spots and more than 200 rides and attractions.

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    New experiences this season include a souvenir passport for children, allowing them to collect stamps at designated stations across country pavilions. Revamped pavilions representing Sri Lanka, Russia, Azerbaijan, Syria and Kuwait will showcase traditional handicrafts, music and cultural heritage.

    Thrill-seekers can look forward to ‘Tokyo Rush’, a high-speed roller coaster set to debut later in the season, while the iconic Festival Wheel will feature newly designed cabins. The entertainment programme includes 400 artists performing in more than 40,000 shows, with new attractions such as the stunt spectacle ‘Fast Live 2: The Police Strikes Back’, the musical ‘Bollywood Idol’ and the action-packed ‘Bank Heist’. ‘Slam’ also returns, alongside Care Bears and PJ Masks appearances at the kids’ theatre.

    Food options are expanding with Turkish restaurant Trabzon, Levantine eatery Robo Al Sham, Egyptian street food outlet Hawawshi Al Rabee and Chicking. New cafés include Vinci Dolci, Emir Bey Gourmet and Uzungol Cafe, while the popular Desert District will continue serving sweet treats.

    Visitors can also enjoy the return of Gardens of the World, new LED lighting at the Cultural Gate and themed decorations along the Sharjah tunnel. Practical improvements include VIP parking fee vending machines, additional ticket counters at Happiness Gate, expanded family restroom facilities and a WhatsApp chatbot for real-time visitor assistance.

    Since opening in 1997, Global Village has welcomed more than 100 million visitors, becoming one of the region’s leading cultural and entertainment destinations.

    Entry tickets start at AED 25 on regular weekdays and AED 30 on weekends and public holidays. Tickets are available through the official website, mobile app and entrance gates. On opening day, gates will open at 6 pm. Regular hours will be 4 pm to midnight from Sunday to Wednesday, and 4 pm to 1 am from Thursday to Saturday and on public holidays.

    With new attractions, global flavours and an extensive entertainment lineup, Global Village is preparing to welcome visitors for another season of cultural discovery and family fun.