Say cheese for Global Village!
The waiting time might take a bit, but residents are keeping themselves busy. While some are queuing up for Karak chai, others are planning selfies. Madagascar expats Areff issack Saïrah and Gabiolla Rasoarinasy are ready for the fun and the feast. Sairah has already been thrice, while Gabiolla is attending for the first time. "We are looking forward to food. All the food. We want to test all food, like Chinese food and Indian food;" says Sairah. Her favourite part about Global Village? "I love the views," she says.
Excitement, much before it opens
Urvi Battol, a Pakistani expat, is excited for her first time at Global Village. "I am here to explore different food, and see the different kinds of culture for myself." So what does she want to buy? As she says, unique items that represent different countries such as shawls, rings and more. And obviously, food is a given as she says. And why not: This time Global Village has different plans for food, too.
Trabzon Turkish Restaurant joins the line-up alongside Robo Al Sham, Hawawshi Al Rabie and Chicking, all at Restaurant Plaza. The dining area sits beside Carnaval and overlooks the Falcon Stage, so you can eat well and not miss the fun.
And there is coffee and dessert, too. New cafés Vinci Dolci, Emir Bey Gourmet and Uzungol Café are worth checking out, while Dessert District returns with a fresh new look.
'I've heard so much about it, I just had to come': Lamees Kadhim
Lamees Kadhim is a tourist from Iraq residing in Germany. She is visiting Global Village with her husband and son.
"I am a tourist here and I never visited the Global Village, so I'm excited about sightseeing all the places, from all areas and all the countries.
"I know about it from before. I heard a lot about it. I see it on the media, so I thought it is a good opportunity to visit it while I'm here."
The excitement is building
Ok, so technically, the family-friendly spot will open for its 31st season at 6pm, but people, like us, are already here.