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'Best day ever': Dubai's Global Village cheers up fan with surprise gift amid closure
Dubai resident Emma was worried that the popular destination might not reopen for the rest of this season due to the Iran war
- PUBLISHED: Wed 1 Apr 2026, 11:43 AM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
A few days ago, Dubai resident Emma shared an Instagram Reel voicing a fear that many might have — what if Global Village stays closed for the rest of the season due to the ongoing war?
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One of the most popular destinations in Dubai, Global Village usually closes in May, before the days get really hot, and reopens in October. The park is now in its 30th season, which began on October 15, 2025 with a bunch of new and exciting offerings for visitors. The season was supposed to conclude on May 10 this year.
However, it is one of the attractions that has remained closed since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.
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Emma expressed concern that if the circumstances do not get better, visitors might not get to visit Global Village any more this season.
She said in the video, "I'm having serious Global Village withdrawal symptoms. I have so much money on my card for the arcade. I need to go to Global Village! Who do I have to speak to?"
Emma also mentioned that she had spotted an emerald green mukhawar (traditional Emirati dress), which she wanted to buy but didn't. "Now I am kicking myself because I could have bought it, tailored it, and could've been wearing it right now and sitting in Global Village," she said.
For many residents, Global Village is more than just a leisure destination — it's a place of memories, culture and connection. So when Emma shared her disappointment at not being able to visit, the team behind the attraction stepped in to bring a piece of the experience directly to her.
They surprised her with a package containing the mukhawar she wanted.
"So Global Village saw my video and sent me a package," Emma updated in her next video on Instagram, showing off the beautiful mukhawar she wished to buy. They also included a note saying they were sending the gift to cheer her up, until the park reopens and she can visit again.
Here's how she reacted on receiving the surprise gift:
Emma's excited reaction served as a reminder of the joy and emotional connection Global Village continues to inspire. Even with its gates temporarily shut, its spirit remains alive — reaching people in meaningful, unexpected ways.
