Dubai, UAE – Every Saturday, the Oasis Mall on Sheikh Zayed Road transforms into a vibrant hub of youthful creativity and enterprise.
The ‘Little Merchants Bazaar,’ a unique initiative designed for children aged six to sixteen, offers an inspiring platform where young minds showcase their entrepreneurial skills.
From handcrafted trinkets and paintings to eco-friendly products and homemade soaps, the marketplace is filled with an array of charming, budget-friendly items.
More than just a commercial venture, this initiative nurtures essential life skills, encouraging children to develop business acumen, confidence, and creativity.
A Platform for Young Entrepreneurs
Among the standout participants is 11-year-old Izaan Afaaq, an Ajman-based soap maker and grade five student at Habitat School, Al Jurf.
His entrepreneurial journey began at the age of eight when he received a soap-making kit as a gift. What started as a hobby quickly became a passion, leading him to experiment with ingredients and refine his craft.
Izaan made his debut as a vendor at the Future Entrepreneur event organized by Dubai Municipality. Today, his organic soap business earns him approximately Dh2,500 per month, which he uses to buy books, Lego sets, and contribute to charity.
His mother, Nafseena, expressed pride in his journey, noting the impact on his personal growth. “Izaan has become more sociable and confident. He speaks to adults with ease, a skill that will benefit him throughout life. We’ve even set up a separate bank account for him,” she said.
Beyond selling his products, Izaan conducts soap-making workshops for children, inspiring others to embrace creativity and entrepreneurship. His six-year-old brother, Almir, has also started assisting him in his venture.
Another rising entrepreneur at the bazaar is 13-year-old Bhakti Venkatesh Hegde, a student at DPS Sharjah. A passionate advocate for environmental conservation, Bhakti sells eco-friendly products and has received multiple accolades for her activism. Recently, she was honored with the Global Youth Awards – Environmental Change Award 2024 in London.
A Vision Born During the Pandemic
The ‘Little Merchants Bazaar’ was the brainchild of Palestinian expat Rawan Adnan Zugheir, who has lived in Dubai since 2010. The idea took shape during the COVID-19 lockdowns when children were confined to their homes and glued to screens.
“Kids were cooped up inside,” Rawan recalled. “I wanted to create something that kept them away from screens and helped improve their social skills. That’s when the idea of a bazaar specifically for kids came to mind.”
The first event was held outdoors at Mirdif City Centre in 2021, drawing an overwhelming response from parents and children. Encouraged by the success, Rawan sought a permanent venue and found a supportive partner in Oasis Mall, which offered space, tables, and chairs free of charge.
What started with just 28 participants has now grown to over 700 young entrepreneurs.
More Than Just a Marketplace
The bazaar has evolved into an educational experience, helping children develop financial awareness and interpersonal skills. Parents frequently praise the initiative for boosting their children’s confidence and fostering independence.
Rawan’s own daughters, Maryam and Salma, sell plants at the bazaar and even conduct workshops on plant care. “They save the money they earn and plan their purchases. It’s incredible to see this financial discipline at such a young age,” Rawan shared.
How to Participate
Participation in the bazaar is free and open to children aged six to sixteen. Parents can register their kids by contacting Rawan via Instagram or through WhatsApp groups she manages in Arabic and English.
The next event is scheduled for January 18 at Meadows Village.