Dubai’s much-loved outdoor attraction, Global Village, is raising the bar once again as it prepares to host the biggest drone show of the season. As part of its milestone 30th season celebrations, the destination is delivering a night-time experience designed to impress families, visitors, and long-time fans alike.
This special event brings together technology, storytelling, and entertainment on a scale rarely seen in the region. With thousands of synchronized drones taking to the sky, Global Village is reinforcing its reputation as one of Dubai’s most exciting seasonal attractions.
When the Drone Show Takes Place
The headline drone display is scheduled for Friday, January 9, with the show lifting off sharply at 7.15pm. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the performance is expected to draw large crowds.
While the full creative details of the show are being kept under wraps, anticipation is high. Past displays at Global Village have featured intricate formations, fluid animations, and visually striking imagery that stretches across the night sky. This year’s edition promises to be even more ambitious.
What Makes This Drone Show Unmissable
A staggering 3,000 drones will illuminate the skies above the park, moving in perfect harmony to create dynamic shapes and scenes above the pavilions. The sheer scale of the production places it among the largest drone shows staged in the region this season.
Unlike traditional fireworks, drone shows offer precision, creativity, and sustainability. Each movement is carefully programmed, allowing the display to transform smoothly from one image to another. Guests can expect a visually rich performance that blends innovation with spectacle, making it a standout moment in Global Village’s anniversary season.
A Perfect Backdrop: Global Village at Night
Global Village is already known for its vibrant atmosphere after sunset, with illuminated pavilions, cultural performances, and bustling walkways. The drone show adds an entirely new layer to that experience, turning the night sky into a canvas above the park.
Watching the display while surrounded by global cuisine, music, and architecture creates a uniquely immersive evening. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or out-of-town guests, the event offers a memorable way to experience Dubai’s entertainment scene.
The Drone Show Marks the Start of the Kids’ Festival
The drone display is not a standalone event. It also signals the launch of The Wonderers’ Kids Fest, a dedicated festival designed to put younger visitors at the heart of the Global Village experience.
Beginning on Friday, January 9, the kids’ festival runs daily until Sunday, February 15, operating between 4pm and 10pm. The festival area is located next to the Kids’ Theatre and has been carefully designed to appeal to children aged three to twelve.
What to Expect at The Wonderers’ Kids Fest
Families can look forward to a packed programme filled with games, live shows, and interactive activities that encourage creativity, teamwork, and friendly competition. One of the biggest draws is that all activities are included in the regular Dhs25 entry ticket, with no additional charges.
The festival blends entertainment with engagement, allowing children to take part rather than simply watch. It’s an approach that has proven popular in previous seasons and continues to be a major highlight for visiting families.
Giant Games and Record-Holding Fun
Among the standout attractions are several oversized games that transform classic favourites into unforgettable experiences. Younger guests can enjoy a one-time Guinness World Record title-holding Snakes and Ladders game, which adds a sense of excitement and scale to a familiar board game.
Other popular activities include a Giant Battleship game that encourages strategic thinking, as well as a life-sized four-in-a-row game that’s perfect for quick competitions between siblings and friends. These attractions are designed to be both fun and accessible, ensuring children of different ages can participate comfortably.
Entertainment Beyond the Kids’ Zone
While the kids’ festival is a major focus during this period, the rest of Global Village continues to deliver its signature mix of attractions. Visitors can explore international pavilions, enjoy street performances, shop for unique products, and sample dishes from around the world.
This season also introduced The Wonderverse, a new augmented reality experience that adds a digital layer to the physical environment. It’s another example of how Global Village continues to evolve, blending traditional cultural showcases with modern technology.
Seasonal Timings and Closure Details
Global Village operates exclusively during Dubai’s cooler months, closing each summer due to high temperatures. For its landmark 30th season, the attraction is scheduled to remain open until Sunday, May 10.
The final date was announced alongside the season’s opening in October, giving visitors plenty of time to plan repeat visits. With major events like the drone show and kids’ festival taking place early in the year, this period is considered one of the most exciting times to visit.
Planning Your Visit
Entry to Global Village is priced at Dhs25, making it one of the city’s most affordable large-scale attractions. The drone show on January 9 begins at 7.15pm, while the kids’ festival activities run daily from 4pm to 10pm through mid-February.
Located in Dubailand, the destination is easily accessible and offers ample facilities for families, including dining, seating areas, and entertainment options spread across the park.
A Celebration That Captures the Spirit of Dubai
From a massive drone show lighting up the sky to weeks of child-focused entertainment on the ground, Global Village’s latest offerings reflect Dubai’s passion for innovation, inclusivity, and spectacle.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of thousands of drones in synchronized flight or the chance to watch your children immerse themselves in creative play, this week’s events showcase why Global Village remains a seasonal favourite. As the 30th season continues, visitors can expect even more moments that bring people together under one unforgettable skyline.
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