Need somewhere to leave the little one(s) while you attend to your own business? These seven spots have the answer.
As soon as a newly-wed couple’s first egg hatches, the little one becomes entirely inseparable from their mum and dad. Your life begins to revolve around matters that, in the past, only existed along the edges of your consciousness; strollers, car seats and diaper bags have taken the place of your designer purses and jewellery in your algorithm. By the time you open your eyes to the world you used to know, the concept of leaving your children for an adult night out seems virtually impossible.
Regardless of how hard it seems, some you-time is necessary, for both your sanity and the kids’. This is why we’ve compiled this list of safe, fun daycares your child can enjoy while you enjoy adult daycare - be that a long overdue date night, brunch with the girls, or a simple uninterrupted movie night at home.
Oli Oli Children’s Museum
Al Quoz, Dubai
CUTOFF: 9 PM
A self-advertised museum of play, Oli Oli offers your kids a variety of fun activities that are sure to keep their minds off you, like their famous giant colourful crochet trampoline. Additionally, the spot offers a variety of cultural and scientific activities you can enrol your children in, from innovation workshops to family storytelling classes.
Stay and Play
Seven locations across Dubai
CUTOFF: 1 AM
With seven locations across the emirate, Stay and Play is an easy go-to when your tiny beloved seems to be whirring with energy - be that from an unintentional sugar rush or, you know, just the usual - and you have things to do. It’s a kid favourite, and it’s open until 1 AM.
Adventure Parx & Café
Al Safa, Dubai
CUTOFF: 10 PM
Has your friend group recently turned into a mum group who can’t possibly find the time to meet up since their little ones came along? Fear not, because Adventure Parx is the place to be. With equal emphasis on their play and café areas, the spot offers your children a stunning range of activities - one likely to make you jealous - while you get to enjoy a delicious brunch and coffee. The gossip brunch date is saved, giriles.
Fia Fia
DIFC, Dubai
CUTOFF: 10 PM
No one gets a mum like another mum, and that’s what makes Fia Fia so special. The spot was founded when a frustrated mother, tired of hearing the words “I’m bored” when she had work to do, decided to create a space that holistically stimulated her kids. With a dedicated space for toddlers, an attentive team and tons of fun activities (including face painting!), Fia Fia is an easy win.
Masha & the Bear Restaurant
The Walk, Dubai Marina
CUTOFF: 12 AM
Now, this might not be the perfect café to catch up with your bestie at, but it is probably your kids’ dream night out. At Masha & the Bear Restaurant, your kid gets to interact with their TV idols live, while you nibble on the restaurant’s delicious cuisine.
Kids Palooza
CUTOFF: 12 AM
At times when you find yourself gazing dreamily at your child, wondering what they’ll grow up to be, it’s best to take them to Kids Palooza, where they can show you. The spot’s play market, fire block, and craft stations allow your children to explore the real world in baby steps, while you can enjoy your evening without worry.
Kids Zone
Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
CUTOFF: 11 PM
Heading downtown with the girlies? No worries, just drop your little gremlin off at Souk Al Bahar’s Kids Zone, where they can indulge in all-around sensory play in a safe space, where the staff genuinely enjoys caring for your kids. Your little one can try their hand at art, building and even being a mechanic in a little makeshift workshop.
