Things to do with kids in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi over the weekend

Looking for a way to spend a fun weekend with the whole family without the household budget taking a nose dive? We’ve got you covered. From artsy workshops to cultural treats, here’s a look at some events to add to your agenda.

Jameel Arts Centre: At this workshop, developed by Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, both children and grown-ups will learn about an ancient Emirati craft. Talli is a technique of weaving that finds new life in eco-friendly bags and stamps. This session at the Dubai-based arts centre is suitable for all ages. No prior art experience is required. All materials and equipment are provided, but registration on the website is a must. When: July 24, from 11am to 1pm.

Modesh World: Have you headed down to the 22nd edition of this fair yet? If not, we urge you to do so. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, at Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2, 3 and the Arena, this is a chance to spend the day - the whole day - at play in a cool, inexpensive spot. There are a number of rides, arcade games, competitions and more that will keep the whole family entertained. It’s open from Monday to Thursday: 10am to 10pm and from Friday to Sunday: 10am to 12am.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: The museum in Abu Dhabi doesn’t only offer families the chance to discover new art, it also allows them to create it. Try out the #MakeAndPlay workshops for families over the weekends for Dh50 per family. The drop-in sessions take place in various spots around the museum and are inspired by on-site exhibitions. In July, take part in activities such as Make a Paper Portrait, Make a Paper Basket, Make a Maze and Make a Sun Print. Also look at the Young Visitor’s Guide, which will guide the whole family through the inspiration of these activities: the Stories of Paper show. Timings: 10am to 6pm (Tuesday to Sunday).

Discover Mleiha: At this archaeological centre, follow the path taken by the ancients when you visit Stone Age caves. For kids, there are activities including hunting for fossils, horse riding, camping and stargazing. But there’s also a lot of history to learn about – exhibitions on site take you through the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic and modern ages, teaching you about not just the history but also social norms, diets, rituals, and art and crafts. Where: Mleiha, Sharjah. Timings: Sunday to Wednesday: 9am to 7pm and Thursday to Saturday 9am to 9pm. Tickets: Dh25 (adults); Dh75 (2 adults and 3 children); Dh15 (Children aged between 10 and 4); Free for children under 4.

Oasis Mall Dubai: Animal encounters are a fun way to spend weekends and in July, on Saturdays and Sundays, you and the kids can spend time with some furry friends, think rabbits and birds and more, from 2pm. A ticket for both child and adult is Dh10.

Story time at Dubai Butterfly Garden Theatre: Head to the garden on Sunday to hear all about Lulu and the Butterfly. The tale wends its way through the life of a flower and teaches lessons about life and nature’s seasons. Kids aged 2 to 12 get in free. Show timings: 2pm and 3pm.