Melodica Music Academy launches themed summer camps in UAE
Melodica Music Academy, one of the region's largest award-winning music and dance academies, has announced a nine-week themed summer camp program focused on music, dance, arts, and creativity, aiming to provide children with a balanced blend of fun and structured learning.
The camp is held at indoor branches of Melodica Music Academy, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment during the peak summer heat. It offers half-day sessions from 9:30am to 1:00pm, filled with engaging activities. Children will explore musical instruments such as the piano, guitar, drums, and violin, and take part in various dance styles including ballet, Zumba, and hip-hop. The programme also includes arts and crafts sessions, along with fun themed dress-up days to spark creativity and imagination.
According to Melodica's educational team, the programme is designed not only to introduce children to music and dance but also to enhance soft skills such as self-expression, coordination, and social interaction. Each week carries a new theme, allowing children to explore various aspects of creativity.
Pegah Mariyam, director at Melodica and an award-winner in music education, said: "Our goal is to help children explore new interests in music and dance, build confidence, and form lasting friendships in a vibrant, multicultural environment. Summer camps like these play a vital role in keeping children socially and cognitively engaged during the long summer break. They not only nurture creativity and discipline through music and dance but also foster emotional well-being and self-expression. At Melodica, we believe in holistic development, and our summer camps are designed to inspire, educate, and empower young minds."
Melodica's summer camp is part of a wider trend in the UAE, where institutions are expanding their summer programming to include more experiential learning opportunities. With an increasing number of parents seeking alternatives to screen time during the break, camps that combine education with music and dance are gaining popularity.
The locations for this year's camp are:
Abu Dhabi Mall (Abu Dhabi)
Motor City (Dubai)
Deira City Centre (Dubai)
Nakheel Mall on Palm Jumeirah (Dubai)
Silicon Central (Dubai)
The academy reports a consistent year-on-year increase in demand, attributing it to the program's structured environment and highly qualified instructors, which have led many parents to re-enroll their children annually. Melodica also highlights the camp's inclusive approach, designed to reflect and celebrate Dubai's diverse demographic.
Afshin, CEO of Melodica Music Academy, noted: "Camps like these give children an outlet for creativity, but more importantly, they provide continuity in learning in a way that's engaging and developmentally appropriate."
Registration is now open and runs on a weekly and monthly basis, offering flexibility for parents planning their summer holidays. The camp is fee-based, with a weekly cost of Dh570 + VAT.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
2 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Author Purva Grover is on a mission to keep stories alive
There's a quiet and steady transformation unfolding in the UAE's literary scene. Book clubs are thriving. Books are showing up on Reels, in tote bags, and in aesthetic flat lays — often accompanied by cappuccinos and candles. But as the visual culture of reading grows, a question arises: are books mere props or are they inviting portals? Dubai-based author, journalist, and literary advocate Purva Grover, has been exploring this question. Since relocating to Dubai in 2012, she has worked tirelessly to preserve the spirit of reading — through her books (she has authored four so far), open mic poetry events, curated reading sessions, literary workshops, and her beloved neighbourhood book club. 'There's a hunger for genuine stories, for real literary experiences,' Purva says. 'That's the space I try to nurture.' This year, she revived her book club in Business Bay, Dubai, which had gone quiet and moved online during the pandemic. The club now meets twice a month at a coffee shop, diner, or lounge. Rules are simple: arrive as you are, read with an open heart, and speak your truth. The club's most recent session, its fifth of the year, left it deeply moved. The chosen read was Heart Lamp: Selected Stories by Banu Mushtaq, translated by Deepa Bhasthi — the title that recently won the International Booker Prize 2025. The timing was perfect. The group had serendipitously picked up the book - and was happy it had made the Longlist. When the prize was announced, it felt like a collective victory. 'As women and as readers, we were so proud,' says Purva. 'When the author replied to our book club post and replied to my message a few days before she left for the award ceremony, it felt deeply personal and was a big honour. It also spoke amply of the author's humility.' Their discussion around the book was anything but surface-level. From metaphors in The High-Heeled Shoe to the haunting cry in Heart Lamp, every story was dissected and absorbed. The conversations ranged further. One member spoke of starting a Kannada (Banu Mushtaq's native language) book club, and another reflected on how love sometimes felt like pressure. 'It wasn't just about the text — it was about life,' notes Purva. Over the years, her journey has been defined by her belief in the transformative power of words. Her latest book is #icouldhavebeenaninstapost (2024), an invitation to scroll through short shorts where one expresses 'unpretty' moments in an OTT Insta-friendly manner. Previously published were The Trees Told Me So (2017), a book of short stories, which draws a poignant picture of love, life, and loss; It was the year 2020 (2021), a fragmentary novel set in real-time, daring to speak of the pandemic waiting to take over lives, or whatever little was left of it; and She (2021), which made waves for its honest, relatable, and fun approach to the topic of womanhood. Purva is also known for her #abookaweek challenge (52 books a year) which motivates a reader, including herself, to read one book every week across genres. It is a quiet rebellion against distraction and literary alienation. Nisha Punjabi, homemaker, part-time poet, and a self-described dreamer of stories, says that 'during my first month in Dubai, I felt lonely. Then I joined the book club — and everything changed. It became a space where I found my voice, grew more confident, and felt heard. Over the past two years, I've read more books than ever — and gained friendships I cherish.' In 2021, Purva was honoured by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority with the UAE's first-ever Golden Visa under the 'Class of Creators from the People of Culture and Art' — as an author. It was also an acknowledgement of her contributions to the region's storytelling landscape. But she says she is far from done. She continues to visit venues across the UAE to host storytelling sessions, book readings, and workshops for children and adults. 'I want to continue creating spaces where people can gather around stories — on stage, in classrooms, in cafés, in libraries, or under the stars,' she says. She has organised various sessions with Dubai Public Libraries, UAE schools and corporates, among others. With a background in journalism, public speaking and theatre, she brings structure and soul to her initiatives. She believes that storytelling is not just an art — it is a form of community care. Her sessions are more than just readings; they are invitations to reflect. She puts it this way: 'Literature isn't about perfection. It's about presence. One page, one conversation, one spark at a time — that's how stories survive.' Dr. Bijal Mehta, a specialist dermatologist, recalls that 'as someone who drifted from being an avid reader to barely picking up a book, rediscovering reading felt like coming home. Purva's book club is a space full of thoughtful conversations, diverse reads, and is a warm, non-judgmental place. It is more than just a book club — it has become a go-to place to meet like-minded individuals. It has reignited my passion for reading and reminded me of the joy of slowing down, reflecting, and connecting.' If you want to commemorate the new wave of literary culture in Dubai, Purva's work is the place to start. Her book club may be modest in size, but its impact is undeniable. Amidst the screeching of tires and the flash of neon, she is quietly building a literary home.
What's On
20 hours ago
- What's On
What's new and trending in Ibiza this season
An Ibiza icon is reawakened with a touch of Dubai magic as two iconic hospitality brands come together for the reimagined Destino FIVE Ibiza The story After creating its own league of high-octane hedonism, gourmet dining, and lifestyle-driven hotel stays in Dubai, FIVE Hotels & Resorts acquired Ibiza's Pacha Group in October 2023. This strategic expansion saw the Dubai-born hospitality brand snap up some of Ibiza's most renowned icons, including Pacha nightclub, El Hotel Pacha, and Destino. While much of the Pacha-branded parts have remained the same, over winter 2024/25 Destino – the adults-only hilltop escape in Cap Martinet on the island's east coast – has been transformed into Destino FIVE Ibiza, lacing Destino's legacy and FIVE's signature enigmatic touch into a new era for the hotel. Just days after opening, we checked in to check it out. The stay We're greeted at check-in into a beautifully bold and modern lobby, flooded with natural light thanks to French doors lining either side, their blinds billowing in the welcome island breeze. To our left, the iconic Pacha shop and hostess desk for Playa Pacha – suitably adorned with a melted disco ball. To the other, check-in desks manned by friendly staff, many of whom are born and raised on the island, and all eager to welcome us. We're greeted with a welcome drink of hierbas, a local island spirit, and quickly shown to our room. Guest rooms are dotted throughout beautifully whitewashed casitas nestled within the hotel grounds. Some offer prime views of Playa Pacha's inviting swimming pool – ideal if you want to be in the heart of the action. Our own room is nestled within the grounds, set a little further back to evoke a sense of boho-chic serenity. Inside the room, crisp linen sheets and spongy mattresses ensure that, no matter how many (or few) hours of sleep you get, they're deep and restorative. A circular mirror above the bed and a not-so-mini minibar stocked with premium liquor are standout features that lean into the brand's hedonistic reputation. FIVE Hotels' eco effort is a welcome addition throughout, with plastic bottles replaced with recyclable Pacha water cans, and all the bathroom amenities are plastic-free. FIVE's fluffy dressing gowns are the perfect accessory for getting ready for a night out, and a smart TV with Chromecast allows us to choose the soundtrack to each evening with ease. The dining While FIVE may have created its brand around high-octane events, it must also be credited for its impressive culinary offering. At Destino FIVE Ibiza, that translates into Cielo all-day dining restaurant and Playa Pacha, a luxe poolside spot where vibrant beats and Mediterranean flavours backdrop sun-drenched days under the Balearic sun. We spend lazy mornings at Cielo, where soulful acoustic sets and an in-house magician are welcome surprise additions to breakfasts of fresh fruits, baked pastries and cherry sweets (an ode to the iconic Pacha symbol) from the continental buffet, and a la carte omelettes and acai bowls. Balmy Balearic afternoons are best enjoyed under the dappled shade of a cabana gazing out to the Mediterranean, or in the heart of the action with a lounger by the DJ booth at Playa Pacha. We sip glasses of Cava sangria, graze on fresh sushi rolls, Padron peppers and tempura shrimp, and listen to resident DJs that play high-octane sets right until the sun starts to set. The verdict Bringing together the best bits from two renowned brands creates a stay that curates the perfect balance of thrill and chill. Room rates start from Dhs1,840. @destinofiveibiza_ The new spots Clap House A new lifestyle experience that's newly touched down on the white isle for summer 2025 is Clap House. A first-of-its-kind beach club iteration of the acclaimed Japanese restaurant, it brings with it alfresco dining, beach club imbibing and holistic wellness to a serene setting in Talamanca. Dubai-born SEVEN are behind the fitness and wellness spaces, while at the inviting pool and signature CLAP restaurant guests can look forward to luxurious and gourmet experiences under the beating Balearic sun. @claphouseibiza UNVRS Ravers in the 80s and 90s will know it as Ku Klub, while those who hit it up between the early noughties and pre-Covid will know it as Privilege. Either way, the world's biggest nightclub is back – this time as UNVRS. Given a series glow-up by Ibiza heavyweights The Night League (of Hi Ibiza and Ushuaia), it features dazzling sculptures, a series of alfresco terraces, and out-of-this-world production befitting of residencies for icons like David Guetta and Fisher. @unvrsibiza OKU X Missoni New for this summer, Italian fashion house Missoni takes over the striking 50-metre swimming pool at OKU Ibiza for a high-fashion collaboration that oozes endless summer. Enhancing the boho-chic island resort, Missoni's bold and beloved palette of ocean turquoise and emerald green brings ibiza's breathtaking seascapes land side, with a collection of branded sunbed, towels and sofas. @okuibiza The trending tables Pacha Pacha isn't just a nightclub – it's an Ibiza institution. The sound system booms, the productions are mesmerising, and the sets are electric. A legacy on Ibiza's hedonistic party scene, This year's summer events calendar includes weekly residences from Marco Carola, Defected, Blond:ish and Camelphat. Plus, pioneering a new – more affordable – beverage menu, you can buy drinks online before the night for up to 70% off. @pachaofficial Jondal On idyllic Cala Jondal, this restaurant of the same name is one of the hottest tickets in town – and lunch reservations book up months in advance. Partly because the Mediterranean dishes – like crispy padron peppers, tender beef carpaccio and sizzling red prawns are delicious. But mostly for it's stylish makeover by French fashion house Jondal in the butter lemon colour of the season, complete with boutique and pétanque court. @casajondal Zuma The acclaimed restaurant is now found in pretty much all the quintessential destinations the style set vacation in – and Ibiza is no exception. On the White Isle, it's an open-air rooftop destination with stretching views of the Marina and Old Town, where guests can enjoy split-level dining, a vivacious bar scene, and the kind of pulsing DJ sets that encourage you to stay at the bar until the early hours. Exclusives like the black cod croquettas are a must-try, as is the Japanese paloma, a tequila-based cocktail that pairs perfectly with sorbet sunsets. @zumaibiza Images: Supplied
UAE Moments
21 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♊ Gemini Daily Horoscope for July 5, 2025
Fast-talking, sharp-thinking, and radiating good chaos—today, you're fully in your element. Gemini, July 5 is giving you cosmic green lights. Mercury is working its magic and your charm is basically weaponized. Whether you're sharing a hot take, pitching a wild idea, or making friends at lightning speed, your vibe is impossible to ignore. TL;DR: You're everyone's favorite notification. ⚡ Talk of the Town Every conversation is a potential breakthrough. Whether it's a meme exchange or a high-stakes pitch, your words are landing exactly how you want them to. You've got presence, timing, and the perfect clapback locked and loaded. Gemini Tip: Say the thing. The universe is on your side and so is your delivery. 💼 Career & Money: Lightbulb Moment Incoming Big ideas? You've got several. Today is great for launching, presenting, or sending that bold email you've been drafting in your head. Your creativity is off the charts, and the more authentic your voice, the more powerful your message. Don't play it safe, play it smart, fast, and so Gemini. 💖 Love & Friendship: Say It with Sass You're flirty, funny, and full of magnetic mystery today. If you're single, someone's definitely intrigued. Coupled? Your partner is loving this extra boost of fun and spontaneity. Don't be surprised if things get a little spicy (in the best way). Flirt cue: 'Okay but… are you this interesting all the time or just when I'm around?' 🧘♀️ Mood & Vibe: Buzzing with Magic You're high-vibe, high-speed, and surprisingly grounded. The mental stimulation is real—but so is your self-awareness. Take a breath between moments of brilliance to recharge, reset, and sip something fizzy. Lucky Color: Neon Coral Lucky Numbers: 9 & 18 Cosmic Playlist Song: 'Walking on a Dream' – Empire of the Sun Affirmation of the Day: 'I trust my words, lead with joy, and let curiosity open every door.' 💭 Gemini Thought for July 5: You don't need permission to shine. Just the courage to speak and you've already got that.
