Dubai surprises visitors with free Global Village entry until May 11
Initiative supports UAE’s Year of Community campaign for 2025
DUBAI: Tourists arriving in Dubai are being welcomed with more than just sunshine and skyscrapers – they’re also being handed complimentary tickets to Global Village, the UAE’s multicultural entertainment and shopping hub.
Whether stepping off a flight at Dubai International Airport or crossing the border from Hatta, visitors are receiving these free passes as part of a collaborative initiative between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and Global Village.
The gesture is part of the UAE’s ongoing Year of Community initiative, which celebrates diversity, inclusion, and shared cultural experiences. It aligns perfectly with the final days of Global Village’s 29th season, which concludes on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
The aim is to make the last weeks of the season extra special and to invite more travellers to immerse themselves in Dubai’s vibrant global showcase.
Global Village free entry
In another exciting move, children aged 12 and under can now enjoy free entry to Global Village until the end of Season 29. This is a significant expansion on the usual policy, which previously offered complimentary access only to children under three, senior citizens over 65, and people of determination. With standard admission costing Dh25, families visiting the park now stand to save a considerable amount during this limited-time offer.
The announcement was made via Global Village’s official social media channels, encouraging families to take advantage of the remaining days.
The park has recently seen a boost in visitors enjoying new features, live performances, and upgraded attractions rolled out during the season.
Global Village Season 29
As Season 29 winds down, Global Village is going out with a bang – literally. Weekly tribute concerts have been scheduled every Wednesday, featuring iconic acts such as Freddie Mercury (April 16), Taylor Swift (April 23), and Bon Jovi (April 30). These shows add to an already packed schedule of over 40,000 performances, delivered by more than 400 artists from around the world.
The destination boasts 30 pavilions showcasing the culture and products of over 90 countries, alongside 3,500 retail outlets and 250+ food options. Shoppers can hunt for artisanal finds, traditional clothing, global cuisine, and rare souvenirs – all while soaking in a festive, open-air setting that blends markets, concerts, and carnival rides.
Currently, visitors can also enjoy the Global Village Mega Sale, offering unbeatable bargains across all pavilions. From Japanese skincare and Turkish lamps to Moroccan rugs, the deals are as diverse as the destinations represented.
Since launching in 1997, Global Village has welcomed over 100 million visitors, with Season 28 alone drawing a record-breaking 10 million guests. Season 29 has continued that legacy with new additions, including pavilions representing Jordan, Iraq, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, further enriching the cultural experience.
Global Village closes its doors for the summer on May 11, 2025, making now the perfect time for tourists and families to explore the park’s final weeks of excitement.