Dubai: Global Village, the leading family entertainment and cultural attraction in the region, hosted an exclusive concert for construction workers in their labour quarters at Dubai Industrial City in appreciation of their hard work and vital contribution towards shaping Dubai’s breathtaking landscape.

Held on Thursday, the event was headlined by the popular Dubai-based ‘desi’ band ROOH, which performed a string of their latest hits. The event was held ahead of the opening of the 20th edition of the Global Village from Tuesday, to April 9, 2016.

More than 7,000 workers enjoyed the entertaining evening and danced along to a mix of Bollywood and Indian and Pakistani music belted out by the band. Refreshments and snacks were also served throughout the four-hour concert.

From the infrastructure and the international pavilions to the parking layout, construction workers have played an integral part in the sustained success of the Global Village as a leading cultural, shopping and entertainment destination.

Ahmad Hussain Bin Eisa, chief executive officer at Global Village, said: “As we draw closer to the launch of our landmark 20th season milestone, Global Village was keen to say a heartfelt thank you to these workers who have made this destination the unparalleled success it is today. Their work does not go unnoticed, and we are always keen to acknowledge their commendable efforts in helping us achieve our strategic goals.”

He said: “This event is consistent with Dubai’s efforts to foster higher standards in labour management and enhance labour-friendly practices. Apart from legislative initiatives, Dubai has launched innovative programmes like the Taqdeer Awards to recognise companies that have outstanding labour welfare systems. Through events like the concert for workers we are keen to contribute towards Dubai’s efforts to improve the well-being of workers.” Abdullah Bel Houl, CEO of Dubai Industrial City, said: “Construction workers play a vital role in the continued success of Dubai’s incredible growth. In order to enhance the working environment for all blue-collar workers at Dubai Industrial City, we work to provide best-in-class services and standards to ensure they can perform their tasks better and with minimum inconvenience. Our main purpose in hosting this concert was to bring some joy to the lives of these workers and ensure their sustained positive morale.”

Thousands of construction workers have worked round the clock over the past few months in the run up to the 20th season of the Global Village that opens on Tuesday.

The workers who attended the exclusive concert expressed their appreciation of the event and the acknowledgement they received for their contributions.