Business registration has officially opened for retail and food outlets wishing to participate in Season 30 of Global Village, with organisers announcing that entrepreneurs can now apply for stalls across a wide range of high-traffic zones, including the vibrant Road of Asia and the buzzing Global Bazaar.
Global Village, one of Dubai’s most prominent cultural and commercial attractions, is preparing for its 30th season by calling on restaurateurs, merchants, and brand innovators to pitch concepts for the 2024-2025 edition. This season, which is expected to start in late October, promises expanded opportunities for food and beverage operators, boutique retailers, and regional product curators who wish to tap into an international consumer base that last year crossed nine million visitors.
Organisers confirmed that a range of categories are available for registration, including kiosks, food carts, retail outlets, and specialty food stands. These will be distributed across thematic zones such as the Road of Asia, which features diverse culinary options representing countries across the continent, and the Global Bazaar, a curated marketplace designed for homegrown and artisanal products.
According to Global Village’s commercial planning team, the opportunity is open to both new entrepreneurs and returning partners, with a focus on originality and cross-cultural appeal. While retail categories include fashion, handicrafts, beauty, toys, and lifestyle accessories, food stall applicants are expected to bring unique flavours and street-style innovations that can cater to the multicultural profile of Global Village visitors. There is a particular emphasis this year on sustainability, traceability, and food safety, as the venue continues aligning with evolving municipal regulations and consumer expectations.
Last season witnessed more than 250 food and retail concepts, many of which debuted exclusive offerings tailored to the Global Village setting. Some brands that started as single-season kiosks have since evolved into permanent businesses in Dubai and other Gulf cities. Global Village’s organisers note that the event is not only a major seasonal attraction but also an incubator for small- and medium-sized enterprises aiming to scale up or test market readiness.
This year marks a milestone as the event celebrates its 30th edition. While full details of the celebratory programme are expected to be revealed closer to the opening date, early signals suggest a more extensive entertainment calendar and broader cultural participation from new countries. Global Village has historically combined shopping, food, and live performances in a unique outdoor format that has become a cornerstone of Dubai’s winter tourism landscape.
The application process includes an online portal where interested entrepreneurs can register their concepts and view stall specifications, rental terms, and design guidelines. Selection will be based on concept uniqueness, operational readiness, and alignment with Global Village’s vision of cultural diversity and experiential retail.
Road of Asia, in particular, continues to be a high-demand area due to its eclectic mix of cuisines and high footfall. It features stalls representing over a dozen Asian nations, offering everything from Filipino street food to Thai desserts, Korean snacks, and Central Asian grills. New applicants are expected to add fresh elements to this mix, particularly with a growing interest in fusion offerings and health-conscious menus.
The Global Bazaar, on the other hand, caters more to craftspeople and niche retailers, with a preference for handmade goods, custom designs, and products with strong storytelling elements. Last season’s Bazaar included jewellery made by regional artisans, home décor sourced from the Levant, and clothing lines designed by Gulf-based creators. With a return rate exceeding 70 per cent among prior participants, competition for space in this area is expected to be high.
Organisers have confirmed that the event footprint will be slightly expanded this season to accommodate growing demand. However, they have cautioned that space remains limited and advised entrepreneurs to finalise submissions early. Technical support teams have also been mobilised to assist applicants unfamiliar with the registration portal or those developing their concepts for the first time.
