A Gulf News writer discovers that the final destination is worth the journey to the Global Village.
We almost didn't make it to the Global Village. The roundabout at Arabian Ranches is currently a construction zone and after taking the wrong exit we went careening down the opposite direction. After a long drive, and an even longer U-turn, we managed to arrive at the Global Village.
Sprawled across 17.2 million square feet, the Global Village is a collection of uniquely designed pavilions where artisans and tradesmen of the world come together to display and sell their wares. It runs the whole gamut when it comes to variety — from kitchenware, homeware to food products, jewellery, clothes, and interesting artefacts — Global Village has it all.
The Global Village first opened nine years ago, and has since become a Dubai tradition during the winter with the venue attracting hundreds of visitors from all over the country and beyond.
Unique place
It is probably the only place in the UAE where you can buy a shimmering Indian silk kurta, tribal masks from East Africa and slippers and appliances from China – all under the same roof.
This year the Village features pavilions from Afghanistan, North Africa, Bahrain, Pakistan, China, Palestine, Czech Republic, Philippines, Egypt, Qatar, East and West Africa, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, East Asia, Senegal, India, Sri Lanka, Iran, Syria, Indonesia and Laos, Thailand, Jordan, Turkey, Kuwait, the UAE, Lebanon, Vietnam, Morocco, Yemen, Nepal and a Europe Corner.
Global Village is not just about shopping. For families with children, there is an entertainment fun-fair area, which is an ideal way for the younger (and some older children and adults) to spend their time on games and rides. Global Village also features the Luna Park, and has a regular fireworks display every evening apart from occasional attractions such as the Kite Festival. The spectacular synchronised musical fountain located in the heart of Global Village is an attraction by itself with its perfectly timed interplay of sound, light and water.
Our journey of discovery began at the India pavilion with its innumerable stands for clothes, shoes, and local products. A special attraction at the India section this year is the colourful bangle stall.
"Business has been good this year. Weekends are always high on sales but with the number of holidays towards the end of last year, there have been extended breaks and people have made the most of it by coming to the Global Village.
At the Indian Pavilion this year, the bangles stall has been an all time favourite. Ranging from Dh10 to Dh35 for a dozen, bangles are flying off the shelves. Judging by the business this time, I am confident that we will come back next year as well," says Joshi Rajendra Kumar, a shopkeeper at the bangle stall.
Do check out the Pakistan pavilion for gorgeous hand-stitched shawls, readymade salwar-kameez suits and jooties; and the China pavilion which is a striking sight with its shimmering red and gold pagodas and is choc-a-bloc with a number of inexpensive gizmos and gadgets that has made the Chinese economy a superpower.
With restaurants, cafes and food stalls strategically placed all over the venue, Global Village is also an ideal dining destination. Don't forget to try out the kababs at Ibrahim's stall located near the entrance, or you can also have a meal at any of the food stalls selling Chinese, Arabic and South Indian cuisines.
There is also a stage in the centre of the Village where folk plays, music artists and other cultural performances are held every evening.
A perfect venue to lighten your pockets and your heart.
Tip: It is not possible to see the entire Village at one go; so most people end up making repeat trips. Try to schedule a trip on a weekday evening as weekends and public holidays are usually crowded and it is difficult to even get close to the stands.
Venue Information: Global Village
- The Global Village will run this year until March 1.
- It is located in Dubailand on the Emirates Road next to the Arabian Ranches at Exit 37.
- Tickets for entry are priced at Dh5 and only cash is accepted.
- Entry for children under two and disabled visitors is free and it is open every day from 4pm to midnight.
- Monday has been designated as family day.
