How to Set Up a Business in Global Village: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

As the temperatures cool down and the breezy weather sweeps across the UAE, residents and tourists alike eagerly await the annual reopening of Global Village.

This year, the popular tourist attraction is set to welcome visitors on October 16, 2024, marking the beginning of its 29th season, which will run until May 11, 2025. Beyond being a delightful destination for shopping, diverse food options, and entertainment, Global Village offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses and reach a wider audience during this bustling period.

Leasing Opportunities for Business Owners

Global Village provides a variety of leasing options, catering to different business models. Entrepreneurs can invest in:

• Organizing country pavilions
• Setting up stalls inside country pavilions
• Establishing restaurants and coffee shops
• Operating kiosks and trolleys
• Running open markets
• Retail outlets
• Guest service provisions
• Attractions
• Sponsorship and exclusive distribution
• Promotional activations

How to Get Started

For those interested in establishing a presence at Global Village, the process begins with registration through the Global Village website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Website: Navigate to the ‘business’ section of the Global Village website.
2. Select Leasing Opportunities: Click on ‘leasing opportunities’ to view available options.
3. Submit Your Application: Choose the desired leasing option and submit your application.
4. Enter Personal and Business Details: Fill out the necessary fields, including your name, contact number, email address, and company details as per your trade license. Specific requirements may vary based on the leasing type. For instance, if applying for a stall inside a country pavilion, you’ll need to provide information on the pavilion type, product details, and country of origin.
5. Receive Application Number: Upon submission, you will receive an application number for tracking purposes.
6. Await Confirmation: Global Village will contact applicants via email to confirm receipt of the application and outline the next steps.

Benefits of Setting Up a Shop

Entrepreneurs who set up kiosks or food carts at Global Village can expect a multitude of benefits. These kiosks and food carts are particularly popular due to their ability to attract a high volume of visitors. Some of the key advantages include:

• Infrastructure Support: Global Village provides essential infrastructure, including kiosk structures.
• Assistance with Visas: The venue assists with staff visa arrangements, eliminating the need for a trade license.
• Storage Solutions: Owners can take advantage of storage facilities for efficient inventory management.
• Collaborative Opportunities: Support is offered in collaborating with signage companies for effective brand visibility.
• Tax Authority Registration: Entrepreneurs receive assistance with Federal Tax Authority (FTA) registration.
• Payment Systems: Guidance is provided for acquiring point-of-sale (POS) systems and electronic payment terminals.
• Utility Management: Business owners need not worry about utility bills, as these are managed by Global Village.