Q. Other than play centers & hotels where else can you hold a children’s party in Dubai?

A. This is the question I panic about every November and March for my childrens birthdays. I dread hosting a boys party at my house so have found a great venue that won’t break the bank is Chevrolet Insportz . Located in Al Quoz this is an air-conditioned facility offering football & basketball parties. For 20-25 children it will cost Dhs500 to hire the facility including a supervisor cum event organizer cum referee who will organize games for 1.5 hours. They will set aside an area for you to have your party food which you can bring along yourself or they will help organize for you.

For the girls Cafe Ceramique is always a great hit. They have their own party room where children can decorate a choice of ceramics and have their party food. Rates start at Dhs70 per child including activity and party food.

Wafi City offers great party ideas for children with rock climbing and/or a party by the pool and the lazy river a great combination for those hot summer months. This has been a popular choice for both my boy and girl.

A new party idea in Dubai is surfing. Surf Dubai offer parties ca be organized for upto 15 children where they can learn to surf and play games.

For both boys and girls aged 7 & over Dubai Autodrome offers go-karting and laser-tag parties with a party area for afterwards where party food is offered. Party packages start at Dhs105 per child with a minimum of 10 children and all equipment is included.

The younger birthday celebrant may also enjoy a party at MY Gym where everything is organised from games, gymnastics, puppets, songs, refreshments and even the clean-up!

Paint balling has been a huge hit with my son and his friends. The children divide into two teams and they compete in games of capture, elimination or stealth. Though the game’s objectives may vary, the way to victory is to mark your opponent with a paint ball Gun while trying to achieve a set task using teamwork and strategy. Teams are usually 3/5/7/10 a-side strong and can have up to 2 substitute players. With the opposing team eliminated and/or the task achieved, a horn sounds the end of the game with a winning team. Each game lasts between 10 to 30 minutes. Pursuit Games run the paintballing venue which is located by the creek next to Childrens City. For more information check out their website www.paintballdubai.com.

For a more relaxed party why not try a movie party. Both Mall of the Emirates Cinema and Reel Cinema at Dubai Mall  offer party packages which include movie entrance, popcorn and an area set aside afterwards to enjoy a birthday meal.

These are just a few party ideas for your child’s upcoming birthday for a full listing please see our party venue list.