< PreviousHealth & Wellbeing 60 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids DUBAI CHILDREN Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities Helps children with special needs via education programmes and integrating them into society. Donations welcome. O PO Box 8397, Barsha, www.alnoorspneeds.ae (04 3 40 4 844). Citizens’ Foundation The Citizens’ Foundation promotes education at primary and secondary levels in Pakistan. O Humanitarian C ity, www.thecitizens foundation.org (050 7 08 4 724). Dubai Autism Centre A not-for-profit organisation offering education and therapy to children with autism. O Villa 20, Al Mina Road, Satwa, www.dubaiautismcenter.ae (04 3 98 6 862). Dubai Centre for Special Needs This non-profit group provides education and training to disabled children. O 45th Street, Jumeirah, www.dcsneeds.ae (04 3 44 0 966). Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE A non-profit organisation that grants one wish to UAE children aged three to 18 who have life-threatening illnesses. O Humanitarian City, www.makeawish.ae (04 3 68 0 217). Palestine Children’s Relief Fund The organistion locates free medical care for children in the Middle East region who do not have access to specialised treatment or medical resources. O www.pcrf.net (050 5 59 5 804). Rashid Pediatric Therapy Centre Centre that helps children with learning difficulties, physical disabilities and impaired hearing. O Umm Suqeim Road, Al Barsha, www.rashidc.ae (04 3 40 0 005). Senses Residential Care Home for Children with Special Needs A n on-profit residential centre that cares for children with special needs and their families. O 26B Street, off Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah (04 3 94 8 765). UNICEF Supports child health in more than 150 countries and territories worldwide with programmes and events. UNICEF also launches media campaigns. O IHC Building 4 , D ubai Industrial City, www.unicef.org (04 3 60 0 778). DISABILITIES Mawaheb from Beautiful People An art studio for adults with special needs, this studio holds regular exhibitions and fund-raising initiatives, and aims to break down boundaries and perceptions. O Open Sun-Thu 8.30am-3pm, September-June. Villa 28, Al Fahidi (04 353 2100). SPECIAL NEEDS Special Needs Future Development Center A community for special needs families, this centre also provides education to children and occupational and vocational training to young adults who have special needs. O Karama Centre, www.snfgroup.com (04 3 34 9 818). Stepping Stones Treats children with disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorders (ADD/ ADHD), Downs Syndrome, Speech & Language Disorders, Sensory Integration Dysfunctions/Disorders and other related areas of need . O Dubai Healthcare City, Oud Metha, www.steppingstonesca.com (04 3 63 5 433). HELPING OTHER FAMILIES All As One An international charity and non-governmental organisation that aims to build a better future for children who are the victims of civil war. O Sheikh Zayed Road, www.aaodubai.org (04 3 11 6 578). Dubai Cares Aims t o i mprove access to education for children in developing nations with the help of volunteers from across the UAE. The organisation holds volunteer programmes all year long, some of the most popular. O Fourth floor, Building 16, Dubai Healthcare City, www.dubaicares.ae (04 4 50 4 550). Tukutana Foundation A non-profit organisation that helps orphaned children internationally by providing clothing, education, food and shelter. Donations always welcome. O www.tukutana.org (050 187 6434) LANGUAGES Alliance Française Dubai This non-profit centre offers French language courses, kids’ activities and movie nights, and more. O Open Sun-Wed 9am–8pm; Sat-Thu 9am-5pm. Umm Hurair, www.afdubai.org (04 3 35 8 712). British Council Offers English language courses for IELTS teaching students, adults and children. O Dhs2,200 a dults, D hs1,500 children. Open Sun-Thu 8am-8pm. Near Rashid Hospital, Bur Dubai, www.britishcouncil.org/me (600 5 29 9 95). Goethe-Institut German Language Centre Dubai German language courses for children, teenagers and adults on levels A1 to B2. From Dhs1,800. Internationally recognised exams on About these listings Outlets are listed alphabetically by category. Timings and prices may change after we go to press, so we advise you to call and book ahead. How to get listed Listings must be sent at least six weeks in advance. Include the name of the event, a short description, timings, location and taxi landmark, website and contact number. Listings are free, but space is limited so inclusion is not guaranteed. Email information to contact@timeoutkids uae.com DIRECTORY Everything you need for your family 60-61 TOKU_1304_Listings_Health_11233893.indd 6025/03/2020 14:22:01Health & Wellbeing Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 61 For more Health and Wellbeing activities, head online now timeoutdubai.com and timeoutabudhabi.com all levels are available. O Open S un-Thu 1 0am-6pm. Bur Dubai, info@dubai.goethe. org, www.goethe.de/dubai (04 3 25 9 865). SOCIAL & SUPPORT GROUPS Babies & Beyond This team of maternity and parenting experts help mums have a positive pregnancy and childbirth. O www.babiesandbeyond.ae (050 986 1761). Drama Workshops Dubai Offering drama-based courses for adults and kids as well. O www,dramaworkshops dubai.com (050 986 1761). Dubai Drama Group A non-profit, amateur theatre group established 25 years ago for drama lovers. O www.dubaidramagroup.com (04 333 1155). ABU DHABI SOCIAL & SUPPORT GROUPS Abu Dhabi Speaks A meet ing for those looking to learn a second language, with on- and off-island events. O www.facebook.com/ ADspeaks. Abu Dhabi Woman You’ll find everything from threads about nannies to birthday party ideas on this helpful forum. O www.abudhabiwoman.com . All 4 Down’s Syndrome A support group for parents of children with Down’s syndrome. O www.all4down syndrome.com (050 880 9228). B OCD Support Group Support group for sufferers of obsessive compulsive disorder, who hold meetings every first and third Monday of the month. O American Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, Al Khalidiyah, www.americancenteruae.com (02 666 4866). Bosom Buddies An Abu Dhabi-based cancer support group founded by breast cancer survivors. These heroic women offer support to patients and work towards raising much-needed public awareness of breast cancer. O Gehan W heeler (050 662 4716) or Melanie Gobert (050 668 7815). Parent ADHD Support Group This is a fantastic group for parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, with meetings held every second and fourth Monday of the month. O American C entre f or Psychiatry and Neurology, Al K halidiyah, www.americancenteruae.com (02 6 66 4 866). CHILDREN Future Centre for Special Needs Committed to helping children reach their potential through much-needed and stimulating education and rehabilitation. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Mohammed Bin Zayed City, www.future-centre.org (02 553 3506). Gulf for Good Brings Gu lf nationals and expats together for the purpose of raising funds to help orphanages and hospitals. O Open Sun-Thu 9am-6pm. International Humanitarian City, Dubai, www.gulf4good. org (04 368 0222). Human Appeal International Currently sponsors over 30,000 children, providing them with education, healthcare and social care. O Open S un-Thu 8am-1.30pm, 5pm-8pm. Ajman Khalifa Street, www.hai.ae/en (06 747 1777). Operation Smile Operation Smile UAE is a fundraising office which is engaging the community to raise funds and awareness of children born with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate. The organisation works globally to provide free reconstructive surgery for children born with facial deformities. O For m ore i nformation v isit Operation Smile at www.operationsmile.org.ae Defence Road, Near Gaza Hotel (050 617 6746). Special Care Centre Helps children with physical and mental disabilities, relying on volunteers to assist the teachers. Currently looking for people to help. O Villa 17, behind the Union National Bank, Al Markaziyah (02 6 41 8 418). COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Injaz-UAE This organisation works to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. O If y ou w ant t o v olunteer or get involved, contact atallah@injaz-uae.org (050 6 57 1 151). Sougha An enterprise development project by Khalifa Fund reviving the traditional Emirati arts and helping Emirati women start their own micro-businesses. O www.khalifafund.gov.ae (02 6 96 0 000). ENVIRONMENTAL Abu Dhabi Astronomy Club Join a fun group of stargazers as they track the night’s sky from various locations looking for noteworthy celestial events. People interested in astrophotography will also pick up a few tricks. O iwww.abudhabiastronomy. blogspot.com (050 225 9963). Emirates Environmental Group Protects the environment through education and action programmes. Free evening lectures are held monthly, covering issues including climate change and more. O Open S un-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm; Thu 8.30am-1.30pm, www.eeg-uae.org (04 3 44 8 622). Emirates Natural History Group This n on-profit g roup focuses on the study and appreciation of the natural history of the UAE and the Middle Eastern region. O anin@emirates.net.ae, www.enhg.org (04 282 3952). Emirates Wildlife Society In association with the World Wide Fund for Nature, the EWS-WWF raises awareness for important local and regional conservation issues. O Open Sun-Thu 9am-5pm. 8th Floor, Chamber of Commerce Tower, Corniche Road, Al Markaziyah, www.panda.org/uae (02 6 34 7 117). Takatof Originally d esigned for young Emiratis, these days anyone can volunteer to help out with Takatof’s school and housing renovation projects, as well as beach clean-ups and hospital work. O Muroor Road, 4th Street, Al Nahyan, www.takatof.ae/ english (02 698 8600, 800 8 25 2 863). FUNDRAISING & VOLUNTEERING Aussies Abroad A co mmunity-based non-profit, member organisation, events at this lively group include Australian and New Zealand holidays, and sporting events. A great way to meet people and make new friends. O www.aussieabroad- abudhabi.com. Irish Society An a ctive and charitable society that promotes Irish cultural, sporting, traditional and social events. No need to be Irish to join, either – membership is open to everyone for a fee. O www.irishsociety abudhabi.com (056 7 10 7 883). Médecins Sans Frontières A private, non-profit humanitarian organisation that aims to provide vital emergency medical aid to the victims of conflict and epidemics. It also addresses different issues, including child health and safety in conflict-ridden areas. In addition to employing medical staff, MSF also contributes to funding hospitals and projects to help. O Open Sun-Thu 9am-5pm. Madinat Zayed, www.msfuae.ae (02 6 31 7 645). Red Crescent Society A society that provides vital sponsorship for orphans, medical and educational assistance and responds to aid appeals. O PO Box 3324, Abu Dhabi, www.rcuae.ae (02 641 9111). Royal Society of St George Organises entertaining events each month, which are a great way to meet new people while raising money for charity. Also hosts two balls each year. O www.rssgauh.com (050 8 21 3 518). Scottish St Andrew’s Society of Abu Dhabi Holds three fundraising balls each year: The Burns Supper, The Chieftain’s Ball and the St. Andrew’s Ball, as well as informal meetings and outings. O Group has meetings (for sundowners) every second Monday of the month at 6.30pm at Cooper’s in Park Rotana, people interested in joining are welcome to come along, www.adscots.com (050 6 46 6 558). The Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable & Humanitarian Foundation Provides humanitarian relief to areas that have suffered natural disasters, funds the restoration and building of mosques all over the world, as well as education projects. O Al Madina Al Riyadiya, www.zayedfoundation.com (02 6 81 4 700). United Nations Development Programme The U N’s g lobal development network, with the goal of helping people build better lives. O Open S un-Thu 8 am-3pm. Plot 26, Villa 12, East 19/2, Al Nahyan Camp, www.undp.org.ae (02 4 46 7 600). ONLINE GROUPS Abu Dhabi Cause Connect Social media-based community group who put out shouts about upcoming charity events, green initiatives and more. Those keen to volunteer should give them a follow right away. O twitter.com/ ADCauseConnect, facebook. com/AbuDhabiCauseConnect. Abu Dhabi Woman An o nline forum that’s become one of the most active and popular in the capital. The group holds regular member meetings with plenty of interesting conversation for mums with kids and without. Forums include The Parent Place. O Free. www.abudhabi woman.com. 60-61 TOKU_1304_Listings_Health_11233893.indd 6125/03/2020 14:22:1262 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids Shopping Game on! Shop online for these 10 family board games that are bound to bring out your competitive side Dhs103 Melissa & Doug Catch and Count Game Go fish, the more you catch the more your chances of winning. O www.sprii.ae. Dhs249 Jenga Giant Stack the bricks up higher than the kids (they reach four feet) and then watch as they all fall down. O www.amazon.ae. Dhs46 Charades for Kids Put their theatrical skills to the test and guess what they are acting out... You probably won’t, but it’s hilarious trying. O www.fruugo.ae. 62 - 63_TOKU_1304_SHOPPING LEADER_10153787_11221415.indd 6225/03/2020 14:23:24Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 63 Dhs201 Hungry Hippos This crazy game always starts off calmly before descending into chaos. It has withstood the test of time, too. O www.noon.com. Dhs169 Operation Little ones will have fun trying to carefully extract the many objects that seem to be causing this poor man a lot of pain. O www.virginmegastore.ae. Dhs150 Pie Face While the adults try to avoid getting pied, kids are the opposite. Maybe if you used shaving foam instead of whipped cream... O www.toysrusmena.com. Dhs127 Pictionary Think you’ve got a talent for art? Now’s your chance to prove it. O www.sprii.ae. Dhs119 Bananagrams It’s scrabble, but the tiles come in a soft banana-shaped bag... You can look at it as educational, which is a bonus. O www.noon.com. Dhs167 Twister This is a classic game that always evokes plenty of laughter as you try to get your left foot over her right hand... O www.virginmegastore.ae. Dhs199 Monopoly Dubai Now’s your chance to buy Dubai’s most iconic destinations – on a board game, that is. O www.virginmegastore.ae. 62 - 63_TOKU_1304_SHOPPING LEADER_10153787_11221415.indd 6325/03/2020 14:23:33Shopping 64 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids About these listings Outlets are listed alphabetically by category. Timings and prices may change after we go to press, so we advise you to call and book ahead. How to get listed Listings must be sent at least six weeks in advance. Include the name, a short description, timings, location and taxi landmark, website and contact number. Listings are free, but space is limited so inclusion is not guaranteed. Email information to contact@ timeoutkidsuae.com. DIRECTORY The hunt for good buys DUBAI DEPARTMENT STORES Adventure HQ Your one-stop- shop for all things outdoors. Think camping equipment, diving gear, wakeboards and even falconry kits. Inside you’ll also find a climbing wall, Cable Climb and a chill chamber. O Times Square Center (04 346 6824). Boutique 1 A sleek store that stocks high-end fashion, homewares, beauty and books too. O Open daily 10am-11pm. JBR The Walk, Dubai Marina (04 425 7888). Other locations: Mall of the Emirates (04 395 1200). Debenhams As well as housing a perfumery and its own-brand clothing, Debenhams has designer collections by John Rocha and Matthew Williamson. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am- midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Barsha. www.debenhamsplc. com (04 340 7575). Other locations: Deira City Centre; Ibn Battuta Mall; The Dubai Mall. Galeries Lafayette With 20,000 sq m of gleaming white floors crammed with a lust-worthy list of designers, this Parisian department store is worth a wander. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (04 339 9933). Harvey Nichols Heaven for discerning shoppers, with displays of drool-worthy labels such as Alexander McQueen and Diane von Furstenberg. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Barsha, www.harveynichols.com (04 409 8888). Iconic You’ll find everything from trainers to quirky T-shirts and GHDs in this expansive youth department store. Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, www.iconic.ae (04 325 3729). Other locations: Dubai Marina Mall (04 399 7189). Jashanmal If you love the UK’s John Lewis, Jashanmal is a good substitute. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10.30pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Ghurair Centre, Deira (04 227 7780). Other location: Mall of the Emirates (04 347 1715). Paris Gallery The impressive product range comprises cosmetics and fragrances, sunglasses, watches, accessories, leather goods and more. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Deira City Centre, Deira (04 295 5550). Other locations: Dubai Festival City Mall (04 375 0550); The Dubai Mall (04 330 8289); Ibn Battuta Mall (04 368 5500); Al Ghurair City (04 221 1166); Bustan Centre (04 261 1288). Saks Fifth Avenue The second-largest branch outside the US. On the first level you’ll find cosmetics and fragrance, but level two is where shopping gets serious: Missoni, Miu Miu, Issey Miyake, Prada, John Galliano and Dolce & Gabbana. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. BurJuman, Bur Dubai (04 351 5551). Other location: Discount Outlet Store, Plaza Level, The Walk at JBR (04 435 5681). MALLS Arabian Center A large shopping mall on the outskirts of Mirdif. Great for people living in the area who need to shop for their everyday apparel, catch some entertainment or get a bite to eat. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10.30pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Khawaneej Road, Mirdif, www.arabiancenter.ae (04 284 5555). BurJuman This high-end mall houses good-deals stores including Miniso and Forever 21, alongside H&M and other high-street names, plus a Carrefour. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Trade Centre Road, Bur Dubai, www.burjuman.com (04 352 0222). Deira City Centre A vast mall that always attracts a large crowd. Offers all the usual high-street names, a Virgin Megastore, the first Iconic department store in Dubai, plus a cinema. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Port Saeed Road, Deira, www.deiracity centre.com (04 295 1010). Dragon Mart The largest Chinese trading hub outside China. Perfect if you’re after a cheap pair of comfy shoes or real pearls at bargain prices. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 2pm- 11pm. Hatta-Oman Road, International City, www.dragonmart.ae (04 428 5665). Dubai Festival City Mall Waterfront restaurants, cafés, department stores, high-street chains, a cinema and an Ikea furniture superstore. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am- midnight. Al Rebat Street, Festival City, www.festivalcentre.com (04 232 5444). Dubai Marina Mall This mall is a coup if you live in the area. It has about 160 stores, including Superdry and H&M, plus a fancy cinema. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Marina. www.dubaimarinamall.com (04 436 1020). Dubai Outlet Mall A large mall situated about 30 minutes outside the city. It houses more than 1,200 of the world’s top fashion brands, all with up to 90 percent off. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Dubai- Al Ain Road, Dubailand, www.dubaioutletmall.com (04 423 4666). Ibn Battuta Mall A one-level mall themed around explorer Ibn Battuta’s travels. Features a Novo cinema, Gap, Nike and a Géant supermarket. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Near Discovery Gardens, www.ibnbattutamall.com (04 362 1900). Jumeirah Emirates Towers Boulevard Expensive boutiques that are good for window shopping. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 4pm-10pm. Sheikh Zayed Road (04 319 8999). Jumeirah Town Centre Home to convenient speciality stores, selling everything from homewares and accessories to party supplies and fashion items. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 2pm-10pm. Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah (04 344 0111). Karama Centre Mostly frequented by locals living in the area, there are some unique (and affordable) finds, from elaborate jewellery to modern gadgets, cheap T-shirts or Dhs10 neon nail polish. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-1.30pm, 4pm-11pm; Fri 10am-noon, 4pm-11pm. Karama (04 337 4499). Lamcy Plaza A small mall jam-packed with great deals and prices, plus there’s a food court and a cinema. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10.30pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Oud Metha Road, Oud Metha, www.lamcyplaza.com (04 335 9999). Mall of the Emirates Though many of the shops are on the conservative side, there are more than a few gems, plus an indoor ski slope and the new fashion dome. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am- midnight. Sheikh Zayed Road, Barsha, www.malloftheemirates.com (04 409 9000). Mercato Mall An Italian- themed mall that boasts names such as Mango and unisex boutique Bullets and Butterflies, plus a cinema. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 1.30pm-11pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, www.mercatoshopping mall.com (04 344 4161). Mirdif City Centre This huge mall has an indoor skydiving facility and brands including Pottery Barn, American Eagle, Scotch and Soda and local designer hub United Designers too. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Mirdif, www.mirdifcitycentre. com (800 6422). Oasis Centre This family- friendly mall opened in 2009 with 77 stores, including Babyshop, Shoemart, Splash and Q Home Decor. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am- midnight. Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, www.oasiscentremall. com (04 515 4000). Palm Strip Mall Home to a range of beauty salons, galleries and boutiques. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 3pm-10pm. Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah (04 346 1462). Sunset Mall The luxe venue in Jumeirah houses top-tier brands such as Valleydez, West LA Boutique, Rivaage Boutique, Socialista Boutique plus high-end accessories and art galleries. O Open daily 10am-10pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 3 (04 330 7333). The Dubai Mall The world’s biggest mall by area, this boasts more than 1,000 stores, a cineplex, aquarium, ice rink and the Sega Republic theme park. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Doha Street, Downtown Dubai, www.thedubaimall.com (04 362 7500). Times Square Center A rather small mall with a few quirky stores, such as outdoor store Adventure HQ. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, www.times squarecenter.ae (04 341 8020). Adventure HQ 64-65 TOKU_1304_Listings_Shopping_11233896.indd 6429/03/2020 10:59:16Shopping Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 65 Wafi This pyramid shaped building attracts fashion- conscious shoppers. There’s also a good range of cafés and restaurants. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Oud Metha Road, www.wafi.com (04 324 4555). SOUKS & MARKETS ARTE arts and crafts markets Featuring the largest selection of local arts and crafts in the UAE. This market is a great place to find hand-made wares and one-off gifts. O First Friday of the month at Al Rebat Street, Festival City, noon-9pm. Second Friday of the month at Times Square Center, noon-7pm. Dubai Festival City Mall, www.arte.ae (050 456 7481). Bur Dubai Souk A bustling bazaar full of bargains. You can spend hours here, so it’s great if you fancy an afternoon stroll. O Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai. (no number). Dubai Flea Market This second-hand market takes place three times monthly in Safa Park, Uptown Mirdif Mall and Ibn Battuta Mall. O Various locations, www.dubai-fleamarket.com (055 452 6030). Gold & Diamond Park If you can’t be bothered to haggle in the souks, head here instead, where you’ll find about 30 retailers and more than 120 manufacturers. Cara is the most popular – it’s reliable and great at fixing problems on the spot. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 4pm-10pm. Interchange Four, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, www.goldanddiamond park.com (04 362 7777). Gold Souk Deira Dubai’s famous gold souk is widely considered to be the largest in Arabia. Great for browsing. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 4pm-10pm. Sikkat al-Khail Street, Deira. (no number). Souk Al Bahar An ‘Arabesque’-themed mall along the lines of Souk Madinat, with several restaurants to choose from. O Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Downtown Dubai, www.theoldtownisland. com (04 362 7011). Souk Madinat Jumeirah Built to resemble an Arabic market, with tourist tat-traps plus fashion and art stores. O Open daily 10am-10pm. Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Umm Suqeim (04 366 8888). Spice Souk Bag some bargains among the aromas of spices and herbs. Use your bartering skills to get the best price. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-1pm; Fri 4pm-10pm. Al-Sabkha Road, Deira. (no number). Textile Souk Stocks a huge range of fabrics from the Subcontinent. Avoid taking a car, as parking is a nightmare. O Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai (No number). ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT STORES Bhs Bhs is thriving in Abu Dhabi, with quality clothing, accessories and homeware at affordable prices. Largely a children’s clothing retailer, it’s also a good store for adults hoping to stock up on undergarments and conservative staples for their daily working wardrobe. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 2pm-11pm. Abu Dhabi Mall, Tourist Club Area, www.abudhabi-mall.com (02 645 8400). Other branches include Hamdan Street (02 621 1242) and Khalidiyah Mall, www.liwastores.com (02 635 4566). Debenhams As well as housing a perfumery and its own brand of clothing, Debenhams is home to designer collections from John Rocha, Jasper Conran, Matthew Williamson and Pearce Fionda. You’ll find Triumph, Chantelle and Passionata undergarments, and shoes by Faith and Milano. Also on sale is the entire Debenhams home line. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Khalidiyah Mall, www.debenhams.com (02 635 4000). MALLS Abu Dhabi Mall Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi Mall props up the end of Ninth Street like a bookend. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of interior design outlets, plenty of high-street fashion shops and a number of other lifestyle options. This is also the place to come for books (it houses Borders, which certainly competes with Magrudy’s). O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10am- 11pm; Fri 3.30pm-11pm. Al Zahiyah, www.abudhabi- mall.com (02 645 4858). Al Muhairy Centre The unassuming mall houses plenty of top-end clothing outlets, with an emphasis on Arabian clothing. In among Abdullah Hussein Khunji’s local dress shop. O Open Sat-Thu 9.20am-1.30pm, 4.30pm-11.30pm, Fri 4.30pm-11.30pm. Zayed the 1st Street, Al Khalidiyah, www.almuhairycentre.com (02 632 2228). Al Raha Mall Al Raha Mall sits on the edge of a motorway in a stranded, out-of-town location next to Al Raha Beach Hotel. Plus points include a large Party Centre (popular with nearby Khalifa City residents), Zari Zardozi Indian Silk and Restaurant, a small cinema and Lulu’s hypermarket. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Abu Dhabi-Dubai Road, Al Raha Beach (02 556 2229). Al Safeer Centre Situated on the edge of a labour camp, this cubic box of a mall is very popular with the labourers. The ground floor houses a grimy but adequate supermarket, while the second floor specialises in cheap clothes and cut-price electronics. The third floor houses the Grand Safeer Cineplex (which shows a monthly glut of Bollywood features), and the Jungle Bungle children’s centre. O Open daily 8.30am- midnight. Mussafah, near Cambridge High School, Mussafah (02 552 3111). Al Wahda Mall A vibrant and buzzing mall with a combination of high street brands, affordable clothing stores, coffee shops and eateries. You’ll find a diversity of both locals and expats here. This large shopping space is also home to a huge Lulu’s Hypermarket. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Al Wahda, www. alwahda-mall.com (02 443 7000). Boutik Mall This funky shopping space at the bottom of Sun and Sky Towers on Reem Island boasts a La Brioche, Yogen Früz frozen yogurt, Nail Art salon, Macondo coffee shop, Aziz Hair Salon for men and much more to satisfy your shopping wants and needs. O Reem Island (02 444 0006). Dalma Mall Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, Dalma is well placed for residents of Mohammed Bin Zayed city. It boasts a few well-known names such as Monsoon, Samsonite and Etam, as well as Carrefour and Cine Royal. There is also a Toys R Us and a Fun City to keep the kids entertained. O Tarif-Al Ain Highway, opposite Mohammed Bin Zayed City. www.dalmamall.ae (02 550 6111). Deerfield Townsquare Mall The latest out of town addition, Deerfields hosts all the usual popular names including H&M, Max, and a large Carrefour. The huge mall also has a local farmers’ market at weekends. O Abu Dhabi-Dubai Road (02 501 0888). Fotouh Al Khair Centre More commonly known as the Marks & Spencer building, this flashy looking mall has a few recognisable names such as Hush Puppies, Monsoon, Pixi and The Body Shop, as well as independents such as Jolie Boutique, selling designer clothing. There’s a decent organic market above Pizzeria Olivella too, with a popular bakery attached. O Open daily 10am-10pm; Fri 10am-11pm. Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Markaziyah (02 639 3084). Hamdan Centre The oldest mall in the capital has become, predictably, one of the shabbiest. However, if you’re after the kind of leather jacket last seen on David Hasselhoff circa 1988, look no further. There’s a certain charm to be found here, and it’s a worthwhile stop if you’re looking for touristy knick-knacks. O Open daily 8am-1pm, 4pm-11pm. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Street, Al Markaziyah (02 632 8555). Khalidiyah Mall With a gigantic two-tier Lulu Hypermarket, as well as Sparky’s kids’ zone, Khalidiyah Mall is a one-stop afternoon out for many Abu Dhabi families. Wandering through its cavernous halls, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a British shopping centre. All the usual names are here, including Debenhams, Bhs, Monsoon and The Body Shop. On the top floor is large oval food court. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am- 11pm. Khalidiyah Street, Al Khalidiyah, www.khalidiya. com (02 635 4000). Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre & Gold Centre The ageing centre is an odd mix of old and new, and is largely uninteresting, unless you’re in the market for a wristwatch or bangle that is visible from space. However, on the second floor of the gold souk there are plenty of opportunities to pick up some furniture, and there is also a branch of Daiso, the Japanese equivalent of the UK’s ‘99p’ stores. O Open daily 9am-11pm. Al Muroor Road, Madinat Zayed (02 633 3311). Marina Mall This is one of the most popular malls in the city. Marina Mall sits on the end of a causeway, beside the gates of Emirates Palace, sharing space with the Heritage Village. While it features Carrefour, Paris Gallery and a cinema, the layout is a bit confusing. It is home to the city’s designer stores, including Chanel, Dior and Valentino. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10am-11pm. Corniche Road, Ras Ak Akhdar, www. marinamall.ae (02 681 2310). Mushrif Mall This eco-friendly monster-sized mall has outlets such as Giordano, Splash, Charles and Keith, Matalan and a branch of New Look to name a few. Mushrif Mall also hosts The Market, a fresh produce hall that has a large fruit and vegetable section as well as a seafood and meat section. O Open Sun-Wed 10am- 10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Airport Road, www.mushrifmall.com (02 690 4422). Nation Galleria Linking to the Nation Towers residences, offices and St Regis hotel, Nation Galleria plays host to a number of unique and high-end outlets. There’s a Sound & Vision, from Dubai Audio, a Teuscher chocolaterie and a huge host of dining outlets including Leopold’s of London, Godiva cafe, Cafe Bateel and Organic Foods and Cafe as well as the largest Wafi Gourmet in the Middle East O Corniche Road (02 333 8288). The Galleria This new shopping precinct features a mix of luxury to mid-market international and specialty retailers including Jimmy Choo, Sephora, Mulberry, Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch and more plus Magnolia Bakery, with other food outlets opening later this year. O Al Falah Street (800 769 924). World Trade Center Mall Offering a welcome alternative with many inaugural Abu Dhabi outlets including the first House of Fraser in the Middle East. Also host to Bebe, H&M, Steve Madden, Victoria’s Secret and a number of impressive dining outlets. O Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Khalifa Street, www.wtcad.ae (02 508 2400). Yas Mall Yas Mall has cemented itself as an iconic Yas Island attraction. It boasts the UAE’s first LEGO store, 4Dx Vox cinemas, Geant hypermarket and the largest Debenhams store outside of the UK. The 370-strong list of shops includes high street faves such as Zara, Nike and Hamleys. O Yas West, Yas Island www.yasmall.ae (800 9276255). Dubai Flea Market For more Shopping listings, head online now timeoutdubai.com/kids and timeoutabudhabi.com/kids While you may not be able to leave your home right now, we’ll continue to keep you in-the-know about the UAE’s family-friendly restaurants and things to do, so that when it’s safe for you to head back out, you and your brood are in no doubt about which places to make a beeline for. 64-65 TOKU_1304_Listings_Shopping_11233896.indd 6529/03/2020 10:59:2666 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids Coco Coco focuses on Miguel, a young boy at a crossroads: his parents want him to join the family business, but all he wants to be is a musician, like his all-time hero Ernesto de la Cruz. The only problem is that Ernesto is, well, dead, meaning Miguel has to journey into The City of the Dead, where he must reunite with his deceased ancestors – and old Ernesto himself – if he’s got any chance of making it back into the land of the living in one piece. Woody Woodpecker Everybody’s favourite (only?) cartoon woodpecker has jumped from a TV show to starring in his very own movie. Woody must protect his forest home from Lance Walters, who starts building his dream mansion in I f you’re looking for some child-approved (the 11, six and four-year-old had their say) suggestions of what films to watch on TV with the family, we’ve got just the thing for you. We’ve hand-picked these eight movies that offer a little something special for everyone from the little kids to the big kids. So grab the gang, snuggle up together on the sofa and pass the popcorn… We love family movie night. Frozen It’s time to take it back to basics, or rather to the original. Yes, we know that Frozen 2 is out now, but we suggest heading back to Arendelle, to the beginning of the sibling saga. Elsa, Anna, a funny snowman, magical powers and some serious sister bonding all make this the mega hit it was when it broke the box office back in 2013. Despicable Me 3 Forget your feelings on sequels not living up to the original, in this case, Despicable Me movies just keep getting better. The fourth instalment (Minions slipped in there before this one) introduces us to Gru’s long-lost twin brother Dru who wants to team up with him for one last criminal heist. Eight family-friendly flicks to watch this month on Starzplay On Screen & Books on TV As seen Woody the Woodpecker 66-67_TOKU_1304_FILM LEADER_10153785_11221420.indd 6625/03/2020 14:25:17Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 67 be awaken by true love’s kiss. Everyone lives happily ever after… Until Maleficent 2 that is. The Muppets Movie Three fans, Gary, Mary and Walter, set out to reunite the Muppets to save the Muppet Theatre from annihilation. But first, they must find each one of them as they have disappeared into obscure jobs. The charm of these loveable characters is still as irresistible now as it was the day they first appeared on our screens in 1976. captured in the Great Barrier Reef and taken to Sydney, a timid clownfish sets out on a journey to bring little Nemo home. Maleficent This epic tale, which might be a little scary in parts for the tiniest of family members, tells the story of Sleeping Beauty not from the original point of view of Aurora, but from that of Maleficent who delivers the curse: On Aurora’s 16th birthday, she will prick her finger and fall into a sleep from which she can only the forest with his son, Tommy, and fiancée, Vanessa. To make matters worse, he must avoid the clutches of two grizzly poachers. Finding Dory She was hugely popular as the funny blue fish with the short-term memory loss in Finding Nemo, that she has been lifted straight from Nemo’s father Marlin’s sidekick to being the lead in her namesake film. Forgetful blue tang Dory begins a search to find her long-lost parents, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way. Aww, tissues at the ready. Finding Nemo It’s an oldie, but a goldie. Finding Nemo was originally released in 2003, but still delights everyone 17 years later. After his son is Finding Nemo The Muppets Movie Coco Despicable Me 3 Frozen Finding Dory Maleficent 66-67_TOKU_1304_FILM LEADER_10153785_11221420.indd 6725/03/2020 14:25:2768 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids On Screen & Books UAE-BASED CHILDREN’S book author Julia Johnson has written over 20 books about the region including The Pearl Diver, The Leopard Boy and The Turtle Secret. But she isn’t stopping there. Johnson has just had two new children’s books published. Alphabet Souq is a rhyming book that takes readers on an alphabetic journey through an Arabian Souq as a grandmother and her grandchildren collect items from A to Z. Lizard and Toad follow the adventures of two best friends who both live in a wadi in the mountains of Arabia. Toad loves to swim in his pool while Lizard prefers to sunbathe, but they both come together over a mutual enjoyment of eating juicy bugs. We catch up with the long-time UAE resident to talk telling important stories and to reminisce about the “good old days.” How did you get into writing? I got into writing through theatre and drama, running drama workshops for children and making up stories together. My background is in educational drama, both here in the UAE and back in the UK. I started out writing short stories for children and then decided I wanted to do something dramatic… So decided to write about the region in a dramatic way. So I wrote a story about pearl diving, because I couldn’t find one. It was obviously meant to be because from the minute I decided to write the story everything else fell into my lap. My husband read a story in the paper about an old man living in Al Manza, who was a pearl diver in his youth. So with the help of a translator I went and met this man. And then I was given some letters that were written about pearl divers dating back to 1850 so I had these exciting nuggets of information that nobody else had access to. How did you go about getting published here? I showed it to a friend who was buying a lot of children’s books for Magrudys at the time. AUTHOR OF THE MONTH She said she really liked and suggested a publisher for me – a small London-based publisher who specialised in books about the Middle East. And they asked me if I’d written anything else to which I replied: “no, but I can,” and that was the start of it all really. As well as being beautiful stories, your books are also educational. There are a lot of stories here in the region, but they tend to be in people’s heads. I want to make sure those stories are shared. When I go to schools I really try to encourage children to talk to their grandparents and to really listen to their stories from their childhood. It’s so important. And grandparents here have seen so many changes… No bridges across the Creek they used to just have to walk across at low tide. People see Dubai as it is now and think it’s always been like that. Do any of your 20 books hold a particularly special place in your heart? I’d have to say The Pearl Diver, because it was my first and it really got me going. But I’m me Out UAE Kids Johnson’s childhood favourite reads When I was a child, The Wind in the Willows and The Secret Garden were my favourite books and I was inspired to write by War Horse author Michael Morpurgo. Julia Johnson The Dubai-based author talks about her two new children’s books and takes us on a trip down memory lane “I have huge respect for what Dubai has done to promote itself as a tourist destination” 68-69 TOKU_1304_BOOKS LEADER_11016609_11221413.indd 6825/03/2020 14:26:26Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 69 also very fond of The Turtle Secret, because it deals with an Emirati girl who faces modern day challenges. And of course every time you write a new story it becomes your favourite temporarily. Is there an author who has inspired you? Yes, Michael Morpurgo definitely. And what the most memorable books from your childhood? I loved Wind in the Willows and The Secret Garden. My mother was an incredible storyteller and had a huge love of animals. She was so, so kind to animals. Because of that she tended to put animal stories my way. I think she passed her passion on to me, which is why so many of my books are about animals. You first came in 1975, do you miss old Dubai? There’s no denying it, I do miss the old days and the old ways. It was small, cosy and comfortable and you bumped into people you knew all the time. Now it’s huge and multi- cultural, but exciting. I have huge respect for what Dubai has done to promote itself as a tourist destination. When we first came here nobody had heard of Dubai, but my father asked if it was near Sharjah, where he’d stopped during the war. But Dubai was extremely friendly, and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. Where can people go to learn about old Dubai? There’s a wonderful pearling museum at the National Bank of Dubai headquarters on the 15th floor, where you can see a great heap of pearls. The Dubai Muesum in the old fort, with the underground walkway, is a good place to go. People should take a walk down the Creek, or catch an abra up and down it to see the old parts of Shindhagha. Sheikh Zayed’s house is worth looking at too, but one of the best ways to find out about the old days is to talk to the locals. Johnson has written over 20 books based on the UAE The Pearl Diver is the first book she had published, while Alphabet Souq and Lizad and Toad are her newest. HANDA’S HEN Author: Eileen Browne Best for: Ages three and above The parent says This is a book filled with as much sunshine as Dubai. Handa and her friend Akeyo set off from their village home in Kenya to find grandma’s black hen Mohdi. On their way they find two fluttery butterflies, three stripey mice, four little lizards, five beautiful sunbirds, and many more intriguing creatures. Finally, under a bush, they hear cheeping! Join them to find out what a wonderful surprise Mohdi has in store for them! The four-year-old says This book makes me feel really happy when mummy reads it to me before I go to sleep and that means I have nice, happy dreams. The little girls loses her hen friend, which is a bit sad – I would be sad if I lost my best friend Coco* (*Coco is the family dog). But they go to find her and when they go they meet lots of other little animals. I love animals, I want to be a vet when I grow up, then I would look after all the animals in this book. They find the hen in the end, see, it’s a happy ending. DAISY AND THE TROUBLE WITH CHOCOLATE Author: Kes Gray Best for: Ages six and above What the parent says This is another laugh-out-loud tale from the best-selling Daisy series. Here we find Daisy looking after the class hamsters, Pickle and Pop, during the Easter Holidays. She is also being treated by her mum to a trip to Chocolate Land. Will the two things mix? Laugh on to find out... What the six-year-old says I had read the book about Daisy not wanting to eat her peas and liked it because my mummy doesn’t like peas either. This one is just as funny with the same little girl, but this time she has to look after two little hamsters that are the class pets. Then her mummy wants to take her to Chocolate Land, somewhere I’d really want to go to. It’s a really funny book and me and mummy have read it lots of times at bedtime. It’s my new favourite. CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Author: Roald Dahl Best for: Ages nine and above What the parent says Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was first published in 1964 and is still as relevant and enjoyable to children today. Five children win tickets to tour Willy Wonka’s mysterious candy-making operation. Some of these children display bad-behaviour and in true Dahl style their punishments perfectly fit their crimes. The main character, Charlie Bucket, is from a loving family although he lives a life of poverty. The author does not hide the fact that the world can be a grim and unfair place however, Charlie in the end, finds just the right place! What the 11-year-old says Roald Dahl is a brilliant author, all of his books are amazing. What I love about this one is that it’s really funny. The characters are crazy. I like Augustus Gloop who falls into the chocolate river and gets sucked up into a tube. That’s what happens when you’re greedy! My sister is a bit like Veruca Salt who always demands things that she wants her daddy to buy her. She will be mad at me when she reads this, but it’s true. I really like the illustrations by Quentin Blake, he’s one of my favourites. BOOK CLUB With thanks to Bookworm 68-69 TOKU_1304_BOOKS LEADER_11016609_11221413.indd 6925/03/2020 14:26:39Next >