Dubai skyline with QE2 ship and desert night safari

Dubai Unveils New Era of Attractions: QE2 Hotel, Enhanced Global Village, and Night Safaris

Lifestyle, Travel

Dubai is set to enhance its global appeal with a wave of new attractions and experiences. From the grand opening of the ‘Queen Elizabeth 2’ floating hotel to the expanded offerings at Global Village and a unique night safari at Dubai Safari Park, the emirate is solidifying its position as a premier tourist destination.

Dubai Welcomes the QE2 Floating Hotel

On April 18, 2018, the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) cruise liner officially opened its doors as a floating hotel, permanently docked at Mina Rashid. This highly anticipated transformation by PCFC Hotels introduces a unique tourism destination, blending historical grandeur with modern amenities. The initial "soft opening" phase allows guests to experience:

  • Restored Accommodations: Beautifully restored rooms and suites, ranging from 17m² Standard Rooms to the luxurious 76m² Royal Suites.
  • Dining Options: Access to 5 of the planned 13 restaurants and bars, including The Chart Room, The Golden Lion, The Pavilion, Lido, The Grand Lounge, and the Yacht Club. The signature Queens Grill offers refined British fine-dining.
  • QE2 Heritage Exhibition: An interactive museum showcasing the vessel’s pioneering design, technology, and lifestyle from the 1960s.

The 13-deck hotel meticulously preserves its original interior design features, including period furniture, renowned paintings, and memorabilia, while integrating the latest technology. A grand launch for the QE2 was scheduled for October 2018.

Global Village Unveils Season 29 Enhancements

Global Village, a cornerstone of Dubai’s entertainment landscape, commenced its 29th season on October 16, 2024, running until May 11, 2025. This season is the largest to date, featuring:

  • Expanded Cultural Representation: 30 pavilions representing over 90 cultures, including new additions like Jordan, Iraq, and Sri Lanka & Bangladesh.
  • Diverse Offerings: Over 3,500 shopping outlets, 250+ dining options, 40,000 shows, and 200 rides and attractions.
  • Transformed Dining: Introduction of the new Restaurant Plaza, upgraded Floating Market and Railway Market, and double-story kiosks on Fiesta Street.
  • New Attractions: Secrets of the Lost City (a treasure hunt) and the upcoming Exo City Planet attraction.
  • Entertainment Highlights: The Cyber City Danger Zone Stunt Show, international acts on the Main Stage, and engaging performances at the Kids Theatre.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is also set to perform live on January 26, 2025, as part of the season’s celebrations.

Dubai Safari Park Introduces Night Safari

Dubai Safari Park is set to launch a novel night safari experience from December 13, 2024, to January 12, 2025. This limited-period offering allows visitors to observe over 90 species in their nocturnal routines, led by expert wildlife guides. The experience includes:

  • Interactive Animal Activities: Opportunities to engage with animals.
  • Live Performances: African fire shows and neon shows.
  • Educational Insights: Learning about animals’ natural adaptations for night-time, such as enhanced night vision and echolocation.

The night safari aims to provide a deeper appreciation for wildlife and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global travel destination.

Dubai Fountain Undergoes Revamp

The iconic Dubai Fountain, a central attraction in Downtown Dubai, temporarily closed in May 2025 for a five-month comprehensive upgrade. This enhancement will incorporate advanced technology, improved choreography, and an enhanced sound and lighting system to deliver even more spectacular and immersive shows upon its return.

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