Parents in the UAE are voicing concerns about the high costs of winter camps for children, with some camps costing up to Dh1,100 per week, despite running for only a few hours daily.
With schools closing for the winter break from December 16, 2024, to January 5, 2025, families are exploring options to keep their kids engaged. However, the steep prices of these camps have prompted some parents to consider taking time off work to care for their children instead.
Balancing Costs and Benefits
Neha Bhagwat, a parent, shared her dilemma. “I’m thinking of sending my younger son, who is in Year 4, to the ISM football camp, but it costs Dh780 per week. Most camps are priced around Dh1,000-1,100 per week. With two children, it’s hard to decide if it’s worth the money,” said Neha. Her older son, in Year 8, will not be attending any camp this year, choosing instead to study at home and spend time with friends.
Neha added that leaving kids at home with a nanny often leads to too much screen time. “Camps, despite the cost, are sometimes a better option, but the shorter hours and afternoon pick-ups can be a hassle for working parents,” she explained.
Camps as a Necessity for Working Parents
For working parents like Sally Maddison, camps are essential, albeit pricey. “Camps in our area range from Dh165 per day to Dh715 per week. For two kids, it’s nearly Dh1,500 per week, which is a huge expense,” she said. While some camps offer sibling discounts, the high costs remain challenging, especially since camps start later in the morning compared to schools.
Sally also noted that some camps don’t always deliver on their advertised activities. “I enrolled my kids in a sports camp, expecting them to learn new skills. Instead, they spent the day painting and playing Tag. I expected more structure for the price,” she shared.
Variety of Options in Dubai
Despite the challenges, some parents appreciate the variety of camps available in Dubai. Elena Tatarchuk, a Russian expat, highlighted the diverse options catering to different age groups and interests. She is considering enrolling her children, aged 9 and 7, in camps like Oli Oli’s creative arts camp or the FitRepublic Camp in Sports City.
Elena found the Sunmarke School camp, priced at Dh700 per week for half-day sessions, to be an affordable and quality option. “My kids are entertained, socialising, and learning new skills for five to six hours a day,” she said. After a week of camp, Elena plans to take her family on holiday for the rest of the break.
Parents’ Takeaway
While the cost of winter camps in the UAE remains a significant concern, parents appreciate the variety of professional-led camps that cater to their children’s interests. However, they continue to weigh the value of these programmes against their high prices and shorter hours.
