Epcot Centre at DisneyWorld bills itself as a "permanent World's Fair". International pavilions for countries like France, Japan, Canada and Norway, amongst others, showcase their history and culture through entertainment, amusement rides, cuisine, art and local wares available for purchase to those who may never get the opportunity to travel the world. Ever since I was a wee kid, its been my favourite place in the Magic Kingdom. How could I resist a visit to the U.A.E.'s version?

Dubai's Global Market is similar to Epcot but with a distinct focus on the Middle East. There were areas dedicated to Europe and the Americas, but these were small (and lacking traffic). The most popular were focused on the immediate region with Turkey seeming to be the most popular. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into Syria, Iraq, Iran and Palestine without any biased narrative.

This was another of my favourite days spent in Dubai. Highly recommended (but only open during certain times of the year). One day was not enough to see it all, especially if reliant on public transportation and the hours it runs.

An average Dubai neighbourhood (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

Driving out to Global Market, which lies on the edge of Dubai, we passed many neighbourhood filled with desert mansions (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

Under construction: Dubai continues to extend into the desert (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

The entrance to Global Market (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

India pavilion, Global Market (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

Kuwait Pavillion, Global Market (@Deborah Clague, 2016).

Saudi Arabia pavilion, Global Market (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

Market wares, Global Market (©Deborah Clague, 2016).

Murals of Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammad were located around Global Market (©Deborah Clague, 2016).