Dubai: It was something special about the festive atmosphere at Global Village that brought a man down on one knee, right under the giant festive tree at Celebration Walk.

It was Frances Sigaya’s first-ever visit to Global Village, the UAE and wider region's leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment when he was overwhelmed by the Park’s festive spirit and proposed to his girlfriend Izume Niwa, surprising her and other guests who had come to the Park to enjoy the weekend festive celebrations.

The couple is tying the knot this month in an intimate ceremony being held in Dubai.

“I felt awkward when people started staring at us but the background was so lovely, with the festive tree and festive music that it all felt perfect,” said Izume.

Izume, 31, and Frances 33, both Filipinos, met on Facebook and have known each other for a year. Their friendship blossomed soon after, said Izume.

With the start of the Festive Season on December 9, Santa skydived into Global Village to light up the giant tree. To add to the festive feel, snow flurries are falling over Celebration Walk and Festival Wheel every day until January 8, while the now-famous Global Village Teddy bears have also donned their Santa Hats all around the Park.

Singing Santa is singing his favourite songs from his golden sleigh in Arabian Square and will be spreading festive cheer until January 8. Guests can also stop by the Mini Festive Market at Celebration Walk, to enjoy festive treats and trinkets while admiring the giant tree. Carnaval is also celebrating with festive music and lights.

Kids can choose from a wish list of 10 special Global Village experiences and put their messages in a bauble for Santa. If they like, they can add a special note to Santa too before they throw their bauble into Arabian Square fountain. Each night at 11 pm until December 30, Santa will step down from his sleigh to select a floating bauble and grant the wish of one lucky child. Each bauble costs AED5 and all proceeds will go to charity.

On December 31, families are invited to celebrate New Year at Global Village as it counts down to welcome 2022 not once but eight times! And for the first time, the Russian Pavilion will be celebrating its own special festive traditions from January 1 to 8.

“Global Village is a special place and we are happy to start a new phase of our life with the festive spirit around us,” said Izume.