Global Village organisers on the hunt for new concepts in preparation for October
It might seem like only yesterday that Global Village closed its gates for another season, but plans are already in place for its reopening.
The family-friendly event, which wrapped up in May, will begin its 26th season on October 26, and will continue to operate for 167 days, until April 10 next year.
The popular festival, which usually runs in Dubai throughout the cooler months, features pavilions from countries around the world.
Organisers are currently hunting for fresh ideas, with entrepreneurs and interested parties encouraged to register as the “final touches are made to the season 26 master plan”, Global Village organisers said.
Those interested in setting up kiosks and food carts have until Sunday, August 1, to submit their bid.
Global Village is famous for its street food offerings. During its previous seasons, visitors would be able to find everything from traditional Emirati machboos to Bosnian kebabs, to intriguing flavours of bubble tea.
Kiosks are also popular for food entrepreneurs in the region due to its low rent, free amenities, and no trade licence necessary. It’s the reason it’s the destination of choice for many brands that are just starting out or expanding to the region. Last season, for example, South Korean brand Samyang Foods launched a noodle bar at the Korean pavilion. It has no other regular outlet in the UAE.
“Last year, we created Fiesta Street which proved to be a great success for the kiosks that were positioned in that area. This season we have planned major enhancements to the street that runs between the Main Stage and Carnival with a beautiful new fountain feature, seating area and a photo opportunity for great family memories,” said Bader Anwahi, chief executive of Global Village.
“We are committed to serving as a launch pad for both local and international businesses. Our ongoing investment in improved guest experience directly impacts revenues for our partners and is key to their continued success.”
Last season, Global Village celebrated its silver jubilee by breaking 25 Guinness World Records. Some of the records broken include: the longest line of mandi and largest display of mandi (after which it donated 4,880 mandi meals to charity); largest mosaic that read “100,000,000 meals” using 2,500 lanterns; most nationalities on a theme park ride; largest pin badge to celebrate International Happiness Day; and the largest ticket.
It teamed up with Sky Dive Dubai to break the Guinness World Record title for “highest altitude fireworks display” with 20 skydivers lighting the skies with 78 fireworks – a representation of the 78 cultures that were present during its 25th season.
The management is inviting entrepreneurs and interested parties to submit fresh ideas