Five Things to Do Today: get into the Dubai Shopping Festival

Plus: see an exhibition inspired by Frida Kahlo, book a Burns' supper, sign up the kids for an artist programme, or join a Pilates class.

The parade held on Al Seef Street for the start of the Dubai Shoppping Festival. Courtesy Dubai Shopping Festival

Find great deals during the Dubai Shopping Festival. The annual celebration of sales, promotions and entertainment is themed "Shop at Your Best". There are more than 150 events and activities across Dubai at key locations, including international performers, fashion shows, ­concerts, fireworks, a weekend carnival and raffles. Various malls and shopping ­venues around Dubai, www.mydsf.ae

See the exhibition Frida Kahlo by Mawaheb (an Arabic word for "talent"), featuring brightly coloured, larger-than-life portraits inspired by the Mexican artist and created by the artists who attend Mawaheb – an art studio for adults with special needs. From 10am to 6pm, Saturdays to Thursdays (closed Fridays), Showcase Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, 04 379 0940, www.showcaseuae.com

Book your spot to celebrate the beloved Scots poet Robert Burns, in an evening of fun and culture that includes a reading of the Address to a Haggis and traditional bagpiping. January 24, 7pm arrival, ceremony begins at 7.30pm, Dh550 for a five-course dinner, Le Deck, Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, book at 02 656 3500, www.montecarlobeachclub.ae

Sign up the kids for thejamjar's Young Artists Programme 4.0. The 11-week course introduces children to techniques and materials in drawing and painting. Wednesday to March 26 for ages 10 to 14; January 20 to March 31 for ages 9 to 12, Dh2,200, thejamjar, Street 17A, Al Quoz, Dubai, register at 04 341 7303, www.thejamjardubai.com

Join a Pilates class. The exercises are suitable for all abilities and ages, and everyone works in a way appropriate for them. Be sure to take a mat and a towel. At 9am, Dh50 for one class or Dh450 for 10 classes, The ­Archive, Gate 5, Safa Park, Dubai, register at [e-mail], 04 386 8999