Free things to do with the kids in Dubai, Abu Dhabi this weekend

Looking for cool ways to spend time with the kiddos over the weekend without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered with these lovely things to do in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Ready to take note? Here we go…

DUBAI

Expo 2020: It’s the final countdown to the end of the world’s greatest fair. Head over to the more than 400-hectare plot that currently houses over 192 pavilions – the kids won’t want to leave. There are shows to see, pavilions to visit and for the young ones, plenty of games to play. If you have children aged between 6 and 12, try the on-site three-hour drop and play experience, available at all the districts – Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity. There are five sessions each day, until March 27, at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm. The best part? Those under 18 get in for free.

Storytelling session: We are in the middle of UAE reading month, and here’s an activity perfect for a lazy afternoon. Magrudy's Jumeirah is hosting a book launch, ‘Snowy & Zoey Big Life Lesson’, which will be read out by author Hilda Yousef, on Saturday. There are also activities on site to keep the young ones engaged.

Cavity Prevention Workshop: No one likes pain in the teeth – and at this workshop you, and your kids, can learn all about the easy ways to prevent cavities and preserve smiles. The session is on Saturday, at 4pm.

Workshops: is your child into photography or dance or robotics? There are masterclasses on hand to encourage their creativity this weekend. From 10am-12pm at 905, Damac Smart Heights, children aged 6 to 15 can engage in their favourite activity.

Learn crochet: There’s a lot to be said about crochet and knitting – it improves concentration, fine-motor skills, math and even resilience. So perhaps it’s time to head to Magrudy's Jumeirah on Sundays from 11am-1pm to learn about weaving yourself a better future. This one’s for kids over the age of 12.

Art adventure: For kids of all ages Jameel Arts Centre is a must-visit. There are a number of things to do including discovering artwork and learning crafts. On Sunday, the centre will host the Jameel Library Reading Groups. As part of the first session of the Eco/Sci/Fi series, participants will be reading ‘Vaster than Empires and More Slow’ by Ursula Le Guin. The session is led in English by science fiction author and translator Cristina Jurado Marcos. Registration is required to attend. Timings: 11am-1pm.

ABU DHABI

Cosplay: It’s time to get inspired and play dress up with the whole family. Head over to the Middle East Film and Comic Con this weekend – March 4 to 6 – for a chance to meet stars, play games and gather souvenirs. There are also workshops on site and an artists’ alley where you can get original works. Kids under five get free admission – and the whole family gets to slip into the world of make-believe.

Get them reading: Get your child a free Abu Dhabi Children’s library card and let him or her fly – into worlds of fantasy and fiction, of learning and of education. There are online resources and books in case your kid prefers that medium and cozy corners for reading for parent and child.

Art and culture: This stunning architectural marvel showcases works of art from around the globe; the exhibitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi detail human history chronologically. There’s also the Children’s Museum, currently showing a new exhibit titled ‘Emotions! The new art adventure’ on the premises. Under 18s have free entry to the museum, although all visits require prior booking. In addition to cooing over the insides, take some time out to see the stunning façade of the building, with its latticed roof and flowing water surroundings. You can also try a kayaking tour here – on Saturday and Sunday, at 9am – when you pay for one adult, a child gets in free.