Let’s be honest, if you are raising kids in Dubai, you are constantly on the lookout for two things: outdoor activities that take advantage of this glorious winter weather, and entertainment that doesn’t require taking out a small loan.
Well, it looks like Global Village has read our minds.
The region’s favourite multicultural destination has officially announced the return of “The Wonderers’ Kids Fest,” and it is shaping up to be the highlight of the season for families. Running for a solid 45 days from Friday, January 9 to Sunday, February 15, 2026, this festival is transforming the heart of Global Village into a massive, open-air playground.
For parents dreading the “I’m bored” complaints, this is your new go-to spot. The festival runs daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, which is practically the golden hour for family outings—cool breeze, sunset vibes, and enough time to wear the little ones out before bed.
The Best Part? No Extra Fees
We need to talk about the price tag first because, in a city like Dubai, “free” is a magic word.
Global Village has confirmed that all activities at The Wonderers’ Kids Fest are complimentary with the purchase of a standard entry ticket. Considering that GV entry is already one of the most wallet-friendly tickets in town, getting access to a dedicated festival zone without reaching for your credit card again is a massive win.
Located right next to the Kids’ Theatre, the festival is a dedicated safe space designed specifically for children aged 3 to 12. It’s not just about running around; the team has curated a mix of interactive and educational experiences. It’s the kind of wholesome fun that feels rare these days—less screen time, more “let’s build a giant tower together” time.
Supersized Games and World Records
So, what are the kids actually doing? Global Village isn’t doing things by halves. They are bringing back the popular “giant” concept, taking classic board games we all grew up with and making them larger than life.
The Giant Snakes and Ladders is the headliner here. This isn’t just any board game; it’s a previous Guinness World Record title holder. Watching your kids physically hop from square to square adds a whole new layer of excitement to the game.
For the older kids (and let’s be real, competitive dads), the Giant Battleship game is back. It’s tactical, it’s thrilling, and it requires genuine teamwork. If you prefer something a bit more fast-paced, the life-sized 4-in-a-Row is perfect for quick rounds between grabbing snacks.
They have also set up Giant Stack’Em—think Jenga, but huge. Recognizing that a toddler and a 10-year-old have different reach, they have thoughtfully installed two different sizes of the game so everyone gets a fair shot at keeping the tower steady.
Drone Shows and Opening Night Magic
If you are planning your first visit, you might want to aim for the opening night. To mark the start of the 2026 edition, Global Village is hosting a special drone show at 7:20 PM on Friday, January 9.
There is something undeniably “Dubai” about watching hundreds of drones synchronize in the sky above the different country pavilions. It’s a spectacle that never really gets old, and it’s a great way to kick off the evening before heading over to the gaming zone.
(Note for our readers: If you’re looking for more things to do in the city this weekend, keep an eye on our events page for the latest listings!)
More Than Just Games
Beyond the headline games, the atmosphere at the festival is designed to be a full sensory experience. It’s not just a “park and play” setup.
You can expect free face painting (always a hit), balloon modellers twisting up crazy shapes, and lively inflatable clown parades weaving through the crowds. For a bit of winter magic without the snow, keep an eye out for the bubble blizzards that periodically take over the area.
The “Wonderers” themselves—Global Village’s team of mascots—will be out in full force. Kids can meet Waleef, Zoya, Ozka, and Aiyah for photo ops. We’ve also heard there will be small giveaways for children participating in the activities, which is a nice little cherry on top.
A Quick Guide for Parents
To help you make the most of the fest, here are a few practical tips from a local’s perspective:
- Timing is Key: The fest starts at 4 PM. We recommend getting there right at opening. You beat the heavy traffic on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, and you get the best lighting for photos.
- Dress Code: It is January, and Global Village is an open-air venue. While the afternoons are warm, it can get surprisingly chilly/breezy by 8 PM. Bring a light hoodie for the kids so you don’t have to cut the fun short.
- Food Strategy: The festival is outdoors, and playing giant games builds an appetite. You are perfectly positioned to grab a bite at the nearby Railway Market (great for sweets) or the Floating Market (for that authentic Asian street food fix).
Old-School Fun in a Digital World
In a digital-first world, events like The Wonderers’ Kids Fest are important. They encourage strategy, teamwork, and physical interaction. It’s about high-fiving a teammate, groaning when the tower falls, and laughing with the mascots.
Global Village continues to deliver on its promise of “A More Wonderful World,” and for the next 45 days, that world is going to be very loud, very happy, and full of giant dice.
See you at the Snakes and Ladders board!
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