I have been a resident of Dubai since the past 33 years. I have had the opportunity to see Global Village start out in the form of a small number of kiosks in January 1997, located on the Creek Side opposite Dubai Municipality. It later shifted to the Oud Metha Area near Wafi City and then near Festival city. I was then running a large transnational group based out of Jebel Ali, and in the initial years, our group used to have a stall selling consumer electronic brands in the first few years of the Global Village. Even as head of the business, I was happy and excited to sit at the stall and sell a few products. My family would also accompany.
Global Village Dubai has now become one of the most iconic destinations in the UAE, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience that combines culture, entertainment, shopping, and dining from around the world. Since its inception in 1997, Global Village has evolved into a multicultural celebration, bringing together over 90 countries in a single venue, showcasing their traditions, cuisines, and crafts. Because I am Indian, I obviously love the massive India Pavilion and the array of Indian cuisines and street food.
The 29th version is currently open and running, and the 28th version had over 10 million visitors during the six month period that the fair is open.
This clearly shows the positioning that Global Village has attained as a global cultural destination and reaffirms this City’s commitment to driving economic growth and fostering cultural exchange. It is also a testament to the enduring allure of the multicultural haven that the UAE has become.
As the Global Village will enter its 30th year in October 2025, I felt it necessary to pay a tribute to the success of this iconic brand, one of the many that Dubai has created over the past few decades. One of the many brands that I have seen grow since its infancy, together with my own growth this city has provided.
My family, a few friends and I are regular visitors to this place. Do pay a visit and soak in the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of this multicultural destination which continues to offer a ray of hope that we can all co-exist peacefully.
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