Got a Young Artist at Home? Try These Creative Workshops
As AI becomes a bigger part of school and everyday life, we’re thinking more about the skills children still need to build for themselves: imagination, empathy, critical thinking and good judgement.
The arts are one of the best places to practise all of that.
So we’ve rounded up some creative workshops where kids can make, experiment, get messy and use their imaginations — while building skills that matter far beyond the classroom.
A.R.M. Holding Children's Programme - The Bigfoot Project. Images taken at The Green Planet Dubai, credit: Social Studio
✦ A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme
These are artist-led workshops specially designed for children aged 5 to 17 to practise critical thinking, empathy, and problem-solving. These are initially held during Art Dubai fair every spring but have now expanded to in-classroom activities. They bring these bespoke workshops, developed by international artists, to 80 schools across the seven emirates after the fair, but schools need to register to participate. We have insider info that there are still some slots open, so do give your teachers a nudge to sign up here.
Outside the schools, there are plenty of ongoing classes where we, parents, can sign up directly.
Dom Kids session. Photo supplied by Dom Art Projects.
✦ Dom Kids
Dom Kids is the children’s creative platform of Dom Art Projects, introducing children to art through hands-on workshops and experiences. Children explore art history in an accessible way, iconic works, and techniques, while also meeting professional artists, curators and other creative practitioners.
Location: Dom Art Projects, Warehouse 40, Al Khayat Avenue, First Al Khail Street, opposite Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Dubai
Age range: Ages 4+, with programmes tailored to different age groups.
Sessions: Classes run weekly, with different programmes throughout the week. Upcoming activities include printmaking, installation art, Ancient Egypt-inspired art, Greek mosaics, illustration, fashion and more.
Price: From AED 200 per session. Multi-session packages are available.
Booking: Advance registration required.
Contact and more info: https://domprojects.art/domkids
Additional info: Some programmes can be booked as individual sessions, so families don’t necessarily need to commit to a full course.
Young artist exploring their creativity through hands-on art activities at MEDAF Creative Studio & Art Spaces, Uptown Mirdif Mall, Dubai. Photo credit: Medaf Studio
✦ MEDAF
MEDAF is a creative studio and art space in Dubai, co-founded by Emirati artist Alia Hussain Lootah. The studio offers hands-on art and craft experiences designed to encourage creativity, self-expression, exploration, and learning in a fun and welcoming environment. Activities range from painting and crafts to mixed-media projects, themed workshops, camps, and family-friendly creative experiences.
Location: Medaf Studio, Uptown Mirdif Mall, Dubai, UAE
Age Range: MEDAF offers creative experiences for all ages, with activities and workshops divided into Toddlers Ages 2–4, Kids Ages 5–12, and Teens & Adults Ages 13+
Sessions: The studio offers a rotating programme of regular weekly classes and workshops, including creative art and craft workshops, acrylic painting classes for kids (Tuesdays and Sundays), kids’ camps, and family-friendly activities. MEDAF also offers holiday camps, weekend activities, school visits, and special events throughout the year. Specific workshop dates and availability are announced through their social media and booking channels.
Prices vary depending on the activity, workshop, and materials included. DIY Sit & Paint sessions, for example, start from approximately AED 87, depending on canvas size. Camps and special workshops are priced separately.
Registration: Advance booking is recommended for scheduled classes and workshops, as spaces may be limited. Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on the activity and studio schedule
Contact and more info: +971 50 628 4291 (WhatsApp) and medafstudio.com
Useful info: Medaf welcomes children of different abilities, and free basement parking is available at Uptown Mirdif Mall, with paid parking also available in front of the studio.
Photo supplied by Yadawei Ceramic Studio
This charming ceramic studio offers hands-on pottery experiences where children can explore clay through handbuilding and wheel throwing. Yadawei also hosts creative birthday parties, giving children the opportunity to work with clay and create their own ceramic pieces in a fun, engaging environment.
Location: Warehouse 30, First Al Khail Street, corner of 19 Street, opposite Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, Dubai
Age range: Workshops are available for ages 6+, with selected sessions for ages 12 and older
Sessions: Sessions run throughout the week. Please check the studio’s website for the latest schedule and availability.
Price: Workshops start from AED 231 per person. Birthday party packages start from AED 178.50 per person, with prices varying depending on the selected activity.
Booking: Bookings can be made through the Yadawei website at https://yadaweistudio.com
Additional info: Comfortable clothing that can get a little messy is recommended when working with clay. Parking is available, and depending on the session, parents may either stay or drop off their children.
