The Saudi Arabian Pavilion at Global Village offers more than a glimpse of the kingdom

This year, 46 different countries are participating with their respective pavilions all decked up to welcome visitors into a world of their own. One of the most breathtaking gateways is that of the Saudi Pavilion, it resembles the entrance to the Haram mosque of the holy city of Makkah from both the inside and outside. The walls are encrypted with Islamic artwork and crafts, rich with the culture of Arabia and Islam.

This 1,250sq mt pavilion with its 70 shops is an oasis of serenity. Here, three main categories of stalls have been put up. The first is an exclusive Saudi companies segment wherein only Saudi products and services available are displayed and promoted. These include petrochemical industries, Saudi architects and contractors, and refrigerators. The mbc3 channel is also being marketed through special shows, competitions and fun-filled activities for kids.

The second segment is the educational zone, which is the main emphasis of the pavilion. Here Islamic books, brochures and literature by Saudi writers is sold. On display and for sale are sketches depicting the transition of the Holy land from the past to the present. Pictures of ancient artefacts and interiors of both the Harams in the two holy cities of Makkah and Madinah are quite popular with the visitors.

There is also a Heritage tent representing a typical Najd household. Visitors are offered traditional coffee, dates, traditional foods and an insight into the way of the Saudi life. Cultural Saudi bands play live music between 6pm to 11pm daily all through the festival. Handicrafts manufactured from palm leaves including baskets, shoes, etc are also displayed to catch the onlookers' attention.

Last but not least is the commercial produce section. Here 70 per cent of the stalls are owned by Saudi based companies remaining are Emarati. They sell a wide variety of goods like Bukhoor, athar, perfumes, dates, honey, cheese, Arabic coffee, and canned foods.

It is the eighth year in which this culturally rich country is participating in DSF; the aura of calm and peace that prevails here draws an average of 20,000 visitors on weekdays and around 80,000 people on weekends.

Over the last 10 years the Global Village has become an icon and the prime attraction of DSF attracting record number of visitors. Whether it is culture, art, shopping, games, entertainment, raffles, good food or just the buzz of interacting with people from all over the world - there is something for everyone at the Global Village - Dubai's very own celebration of the diversity and similarity among peoples of the world. It is the first among the 10 major destinations of DSF 2005.

Special families only and ladies only days have been chalked out in the week. But the best part is that unlike previous festivals, this year the Global Village will be open up to March 31, long after DSF 2005 closes on February 12.