Journalism student Apoorva Dudani reports on the Ripe Market in Dubai.
DUBAI – Ripe Market, a community event supporting local homegrown businesses selling fresh produce, clothes, accessories and furniture, is now open to visitors until May 1.
The venue welcomes everyone with an entry fee of AED 5 and offers food trucks, live DJ music, and other dining and entertainment options.
The location holds masterclasses, talks and workshops from UAE-based bakers, handicraft artists and other entrepreneurs, along with free yoga classes every weekend.
“I bake vegan, gluten-free cookies. My mum says they are super healthy and my friends like them too. I sell my cookies here because I have big dreams and need not wait to grow up. Anyone can be anything,” said Devi Kamath, 4, owner of local business BobRockz Cookies.
The market has child-friendly activities such as pony riding, slime making, sand art, face painting, with bouncy castles, playgrounds and a football field.
Additionally, the location is home to Animal Care Center, a sanctuary and petting zoo that rescues, treats and cares for lost, abandoned and injured animals. According to the owner, the social creatures enjoy exploring and interacting with visitors.
Ripe Market is held in Academy Park on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
