Guide

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Wicked Makes Its Middle East Debut at Dubai Opera and It's Unmissable

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Education

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Art, Culture, and Inspiration Come Alive: A One-of-a-Kind Celebration at BC Academy

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Money

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Home

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Car

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Authorities to Waive All Dubai Traffic Fines Incurred on April 16

Wellness

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Where to Get Free Breast Cancer Screening in the UAE 2025

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

Can I write "No siblings please" on party invitations?

228 posts / 0 new

Last post

Log in to post new content in the forum.

17

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:16

I see your point Summerdream, but agree with Cyclone T and janesul If you can't afford to cater to what's the norm here - maybe just maybe don't have a party. Just because it is 'the norm' here doesn't make it ok or acceptable. I still think the post of the thread what janesul wrote: [i'>Those that mind don't matter and those that matter don't mind.[/i'>

Puffinlunde34121

384

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:14

I think it's fine to drop kids off - especially school age kids - although personally I would stay with a pre-schooler However I did find it strange in my pool party experience that the parents did not even come into the building to check it was OK and ever even spoke to us - just left the kids to find their own way to the changing room and for the older sister to struggle with getting her 3 year old sister changed - most of the other parents came in an handed over their children and checked we could cope - might have taken up some extra help offers if I'd know about the 3 year old but they were last to arrive

17

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:11

Thank you for all your input ladies. If I may, theres another thing annoying me with birthday parties here. Often children are dropped off with their maid/nanny which is fine for me, I have however seen birthday invites which says "No maids please." What I dont understand is why 5, 6 and 7 year olds needs to feeded! How do these children manage at school when noone is there to put the food in their mouth??? Oh my goodness, that's a whole other thread scones :D I know, youre right!

829

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:07

Thank you for all your input ladies. If I may, theres another thing annoying me with birthday parties here. Often children are dropped off with their maid/nanny which is fine for me, I have however seen birthday invites which says "No maids please." What I dont understand is why 5, 6 and 7 year olds needs to feeded! How do these children manage at school when noone is there to put the food in their mouth??? Oh my goodness, that's a whole other thread scones :D

1618

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:07

I think it's rude to assume the sibbling is invited whether you drop them off or not. Birthday Parties are for the Birthday Child and his or her friends not his or her friends plus others. We've always had parties at home, never get RSVPs so it's not the cost involved for us when extras come along it's just that they don't know the other kids. Some are too old so get bored others too young so can't join in and no I am not a free baby sitting service. Most parents unless friends of ours don't stay, they haven't stayed since birthday no 5. Drop one child off at the party and take the other one out for icecream or do something fun together for the duration of the party. You don't have to go far away, and if you leave your contact details the parents will call you if you're needed.

17

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:06

Thank you for all your input ladies. If I may, theres another thing annoying me with birthday parties here. Often children are dropped off with their maid/nanny which is fine for me, I have however seen birthday invites which says "No maids please." What I dont understand is why 5, 6 and 7 year olds needs to be feeded! How do these children manage at school when noone is there to put the food in their mouth??? <em>edited by Scones on 07/03/2011</em>

Puffinlunde34121

384

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:05

Puffinlinde and anyone else who this happens to, just call the parents up and ask them to come and collect the uninvited as there is nobody available to 'sit' their child. Actually I did call the home number - no-one home - don't think the parents really care as these were the same children who aged 6 and 18months who knocked on our door at 10pm one Saturday night asking if DD2 wanted to *play out* despite living 2 streets away -I assumed that the kids must have got out and rang them up but the parents were not at all bothered that these tiny children were out :\: :\: Needless to say I never allowed my kids to play there! Luckily we changed schools shortly after

1579

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:04

If you can't afford to cater to what's the norm here - maybe just maybe don't have a party. Just because it is 'the norm' here doesn't make it ok or acceptable. I still think the post of the thread what janesul wrote: [i'>Those that mind don't matter and those that matter don't mind.[/i'>

407

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:56

All my party invites have said 'Siblings welcome', so the parents don't have to worry. I always have extra goody bags. If its appropriate only for a certain age group, I would put the age group in. I also say if sibling is too young and would still like to join in As I never got enough warning on how many kids and always end up allowing for far too many kids as RSVP is not norm here, I added the text, please text/email/phone me or have your child confirm to the birthday girl - this only to confirm your kid has a goody bag with her name for her. If you can't afford to cater to what's the norm here - maybe just maybe don't have a party. I would rather all kids who attend my kids party come in happy and not feeling bad for a sibling who really wanted to join.

13

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:55

It is not about the money but also teaching your child what is right. More like a 'trauma' for the mom like Mariana here, opppss...what do i do with the 2nd one! well... did you ask yourself that question when hvg that child in your belly? I bet you, if you tell the kid,what is the actual party for and who is it for, I can tell you the child will be OK. It is the parents that are the stroppy cow!

436

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:52

I never came across this practice until we moved here. I always only take the invited child to the party never the siblings. I was stunned when siblings turned up at my oldest Childs birthday party not long ago, especially as the cost was 100 per head! Just a note on 'dropping and going": what is the protocol here? Reading the replies below it appears that this is frowned upon. We have always asked the Childs parent when we arrive if they'd like us to stay or not but now I am thinking that this is not done and I am 'dumping'? Feeling very guilty now. I, personally think it's fine to leave your child... As long as you have double checked pick up time and made sure the host has your. Number in case of emergency.....I think what most people of here have objected too is when the siblings are dropped off as well.....so the birthday party becomes the baby sitter.... I am sure I'll be corrected if I am wrong!

17

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:49

Its not just about the money Mariana. Its for example a place/room catered for maximum 30 children, and having say 5, mostly younger siblings running around might disturb the party. If close friends of course I wouldnt mind, but when the birthday child has never seen the siblings before I rather the siblings didnt come. Surely, Mariana, you drop the child who's going to the party off and go and do something else with their sibling? Yes, it may be the case if the kids are older.One is 3 and the other 5 . I never let them in their own except school . Usually i sent a big cake in Thursday to the school along with party bags and order pizza for them.I do another party with selected invites ( family friends, family members) where i know who attends and still I'm prepared for some extra.... I notice in this board how some of the members they mention they live very luxurious and still be very tide when comes to small things ...it may be a culture thing

vero possumus37927

876

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:46

Puffinlinde and anyone else who this happens to, just call the parents up and ask them to come and collect the uninvited as there is nobody available to 'sit' their child.

12

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:45

I never came across this practice until we moved here. I always only take the invited child to the party never the siblings. I was stunned when siblings turned up at my oldest Childs birthday party not long ago, especially as the cost was 100 per head! Just a note on 'dropping and going": what is the protocol here? Reading the replies below it appears that this is frowned upon. We have always asked the Childs parent when we arrive if they'd like us to stay or not but now I am thinking that this is not done and I am 'dumping'? Feeling very guilty now.

Puffinlunde34121

384

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:44

I think it's pretty rude to just assume you can invite other members of your family to someone elses party. It makes my blood boil that people expect to be catered for without having the courtesy to call in advance and check I had a really scary experience when DD2 had a pool party at a swimming pool to celebrate her 8th birthday as the whole class had learned to swim -I specifically asked to be forwarned of non-swimmers on the invitation. One parent (without warning me in advance) dropped off not only her 8 year old (invited) daughter but also her univited 3 year old sibling without a word - they literally drove up, opened the car door and let out the children and drove off leaving the kids leaving me to babymind!!! Therefore at zero notice I was expected to accomodate and be responsible for a non-swimming 3 year old who could not join in the party at all as it was based on swimming games!!!! It worked out very expensive as my only option was to speak to the pool staff and hire the baby splash pool as well as the small pool that I'd hired for the party JUST to accomodate this sibling. It alsomeant that was largely unable to be at the party as I was babysitting in the baby pool. Grrrrrrrr

1579

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:33

Yes, you absolutely can say no siblings on a party invite. What's that saying? Those that mind don't matter and those that matter don't mind.... If a parent was affronted, then tough tippies. :)

13

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:31

honestly do what you want, your party your way. You can't pleased everyone. me too, got enuff of this selfish arrogant attitude . bring a sibling without any request and all! If we close enough friends, yes, I wouldn't mind,but for someone who never said hello to me, possibly don't even know I am the mother to the celebrant that is so not ON! I got this done by one mom and then I realised she always brings her twin boy along with the other twin sister to every party! it is like saving her trip & money than taking the other twin somewhere else with her! and when she's there, she never mingle,chat to me or other parents that are my close friends who stay throughout the party. as for the extra goodie bag for non-invited type, i make it less 'fancy' for them. And to some parents who left their child behind at parties that I am at, I hardly bothered to 'care' for the child when she cries for her/his mum. edited by dangsu on 07/03/2011 <em>edited by dangsu on 07/03/2011</em>

1996

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:31

My friend's sister was in the same dilemma but found a cute solution. She made and printed cards off the computer that were like cinema passes and said "this pass is valid for one individual only." No unwanted guests and she didn't come off as rude either. Brilliant solution :)

829

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:29

Yes, you absolutely can say no siblings on a party invite. What's that saying? Those that mind don't matter and those that matter don't mind.... If a parent was affronted, then tough tippies.

488

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:22

My friend's sister was in the same dilemma but found a cute solution. She made and printed cards off the computer that were like cinema passes and said "this pass is valid for one individual only." No unwanted guests and she didn't come off as rude either.

2322

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:21

oh I have given up with this whole malarky...people don't rsvp, they show up and drop and run, they leave the wholekit and kabboodle of siblings (and in one case friends of siblings!) all the kids expect the whole treatment from woe to go and birthday parties are the bane of my life. We TRY to have a nice day, doing regular party stuff and still the whole things ends up being a mission from hades or a babysitting extravaganza.

liveandletlive37445

18

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:19

I understand it's difficult sometimes to go to a party and not take the sibling too, I've found myself in this situation many times but would always ask the host beforehand and insist on paying for the extra. It's unfair to expect the host to swallow up the extra cost and with siblings you could potentially double the costs! At a play area party the staff at the door should have the names of the invited guests and they should communicate to parents that siblings must be paid for. As for party bags I think it's nice to have a bag of haribo packets or something but a full party bag unnecessary I think. HTH

5400

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:18

Personally, I think it's rude not to warn the parents that you intend to be present with a sibling or few. I don't think it's fair on the child whose party it is to have friends' siblings trailing along, unless they are specified as being invited. Cost aside, there's the age difference, for a start.

AdviceSeeker13702

1100

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:16

I think its unfair to expect parents to pay for siblings if they weren't invited or are friends of the birthday child. If I were to bring as sibling to a party, I would first ask and I would pay for their entry/food etc as well if it was because I wanted to bring them along... different if both are invited of course.

1579

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:13

Very rude ! I have 2 kids and it will be impossible to attend with one...what i should do with the other? If you have a certain budget and not prepared to go over i suggest you limit the party to a close group of kids where you fallow up to make certain who attends .... You must be kidding. To assume that siblings can attend is rude. It is not up to the birthday childs parent to consider the individual childminding circumstances of every family invited. If you cannot attend without bringing a sibling then offering to pay, leaving the invited child for the duration of the party or not attending are options.

1996

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:13

Also I used to write the guests names on the party bags-and just have spare packets of lollies and extra balloons for siblings who came at pick-up time

spongemonkey980

4329

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:12

Surely, Mariana, you drop the child who's going to the party off and go and do something else with their sibling? Yes, it may be the case if the kids are older.One is 3 and the other 5 . I never let them in their own except school . Usually i sent a big cake in Thursday to the school along with party bags and order pizza for them.I do another party with selected invites ( family friends, family members) where i know who attends and still I'm prepared for some extra.... I notice in this board how some of the members they mention they live very luxurious and still be very tide when comes to small things ...it may be a culture thing Curious - what "culture" are you from them ?

spongemonkey980

4329

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:11

Yes of course you can!

436

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:10

Mariana I object to you implying people are tight by not wanting to entertain your whole family! How people choose too spend their money is up to them. The majority of people may have what seems a luxurious life, but I am sure most have a budget. If that does not include the $ to entertain a sibling then I think that is fair enough....and as I have said if you can't live with it, you can always decline an invite....attendance isn't compulsory.

1811

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 21:09

I think it's fine to wirte "no siblings" as the costs can really mount when you are paying per head. Even if you are having the party at home you may plan activities and games which are only suitable for a certain age group. The party is for your child so do what's best for your family and don't worry about siblings.

first
previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
next
last

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

AL JABR EFI Early Childhood Centre | French nursery in Dubai

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Dubai women dining offers guide 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Managing Anxiety during Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

A Guide to DAZ Festival 2026 in Al Ain | Tickets, Activities, Food & Beverages, Shows, Events & More

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History exhibition at BC Academy International School Dubai news

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Psammotherapy at Raffles the Palm Dubai

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 10 Low Cost Airlines in the UAE

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements