Kathak Classes in Dubai
Master the elegance and rhythm of North India’s most celebrated classical dance form with dedicated instruction.
About Our Kathak Classes
Kathak classes at Melody Makers in Dubai are group lessons for all ages, teaching North India’s celebrated classical dance form at our Karama studio. Students earn formal certification through the ABGMVM examination board, established in 1901, with grades from Prarambhik through Visharad and Alankar. The programme develops intricate footwork, mesmerising chakkars and expressive storytelling rooted in centuries of tradition.
Students progress through a structured curriculum beginning with tatkar (rhythmic footwork patterns) and basic hand movements, advancing through tukras, tihais, todas and tarana (rhythmic compositions), and ultimately developing abhinaya - the art of emotional storytelling through facial expression and body language. The journey from beginner to advanced is systematic and deeply rewarding.
Our Kathak instruction emphasises both the technical precision and the artistic expression that define the art form. Students learn to understand and work within tala (rhythm cycles), develop the stamina for extended footwork sequences, and build the control needed for the fast, graceful spins that are Kathak’s most spectacular feature.
Regular performance opportunities at concerts, cultural events and charity shows allow Kathak students to share their art with audiences in Dubai, building the stage presence and confidence that live performance demands.
For students seeking formal certification, Melody Makers offers Kathak examinations through the Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal (ABGMVM) - one of India’s oldest and most prestigious examination boards for classical performing arts. Established in 1901 and recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC), ABGMVM provides a structured pathway from Prarambhik (foundation) through Visharad (advanced level) to Alankar (highest level), giving Kathak students internationally recognised qualifications in their art form.
What You'll Learn
- Tatkar: rhythmic footwork patterns in various speeds
- Hand movements, gestures and arm positions
- Chakkars: spins and pirouettes with increasing speed
- Tukras, tihais and toda: rhythmic compositions
- Tarana: lyrical-rhythmic compositions
- Abhinaya: emotional storytelling through expression and gesture
- Tala: understanding rhythm cycles (teentaal, jhaptaal, etc.)
- Classical and semi-classical repertoire
- Ghungroo technique and stage presentation
- Performance preparation for concerts and events
Who Is This For?
Children
5–12 years
Introduction to basic tatkar, simple compositions and graceful movements. Children develop coordination, rhythm sense and the beginnings of artistic expression in a fun, structured environment.
Teenagers
13–17 years
Deeper exploration of Kathak technique, complex compositions, faster chakkars and developing abhinaya skills. Teen students often make rapid progress as their physical abilities mature.
Adults
18+ years
Whether discovering Kathak for the first time or returning after a break, our adult classes welcome all levels. Kathak is a beautiful form of physical expression suitable for all genders and backgrounds.
Class Format & Schedule
Duration
1 hour per session
Format
Small group classes
Location
C 110, Karama Center, Al Karama, Dubai
Transport available to certain areas
Online
Available via Zoom
Online Kathak classes available via Zoom for students who prefer learning from home.
Meet Your Kathak Teachers
Our multinational faculty brings years of teaching and performance experience. Meet the full team →
Why Choose Melody Makers?
Nearly Three Decades in Dubai
One of the longest-running music and fine arts centres in the city. Same family, same passion, since day one.
Trinity Exam Centre
Registered Exam Centre of Trinity College London. Prepare and sit exams at our centre for internationally recognised qualifications.
Personalised Attention
Choose private one-to-one or small group classes. Every student always has their own instrument. Low teacher-student ratios across all programmes.
Performance Opportunities
Regular concerts, stage shows and charity events develop confidence and give students the thrill of performing for a live audience.
Online & In-Studio
Classes available at our Karama studio and online via Zoom for students across Dubai, the UAE and internationally.
Free Trial Lesson
Every new student is welcome to a free complimentary trial. Experience our teaching quality before making any commitment.
How Much Do Kathak Classes Cost?
From AED 220 / month
From AED 350 / month
Why we can price below the Dubai average
- ·Same Karama location since 1997. Rent was locked in decades before Dubai's commercial property boom. Most new studios in Jumeirah, JLT or Business Bay pay 5-10x our rate and pass that cost to students.
- ·Family-run, not VC-backed. No investor return targets to hit, no middle-management layer. The savings go back into keeping lessons affordable for UAE families.
- ·Small class sizes by default, not as an upsell. You get personal attention at the group rate — not a crowded class with a premium 1:1 tier gating the real teaching.
- ·No hidden fees. No enrolment fee, no recital fee, no annual membership. Pay month-to-month. Exam fees only if you choose to sit Trinity or ABGMVM.
See our 2026 Dubai music lesson price guide for a full breakdown of what studios across Dubai charge.
What Kathak parents and students are saying
Verified reviews from Google
I have had an amazing experience with Melody Makers throughout the five years I spent with them. The staff and teachers are patient, and have been supporting within and outside the centre itself. Their association with Trinity College Of London was a huge plus in my experience, e…
Sutirth Saptharishi
Jun 2026
Lovely academy, have been training here and have really learnt and enjoyed my journey. Everyone is super supportive
Chirag Dave
Apr 2026
Seeing our son Carlito flourish in music has been incredible, and we owe so much to Melody Makers. Their guidance, encouragement, and love for music inspire young minds every day ✨️ Thank you
Saheeda Gonsalves
Apr 2026
Melody Makers have more than met all my expectations. They are a very professional outfit. Admin staff keeps everything running smoothly. They are very accommodating around catch-up classes. I have online classes and these do not compromise on quality. My tutor Jun, is highly qu…
Alma Prabhu
Apr 2026
Highly recommended! Melody Makers offers supportive teachers, dedicated staff, and a great learning environment.
Deepthi Perera
Apr 2026
Excellent service with talented teachers and very supportive staff. Highly recommended! I really appreciate Ms. Chandima, she is a wonderful instructor.
Wickrama Palliyamulla
Apr 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful Guides & Resources
29 Years of Melody Makers: A Letter to Our Students, Families and Faculty
I almost went to music university in Australia. I went to New Zealand to learn English and ended up coding for a living. Two years there, twenty more travelling, sixty countries later, I am running a music school in Dubai. A letter from our new Director.
Bharatanatyam for Kids in Dubai: What Parents Need to Know
A parent's guide to starting your child in Bharatanatyam dance classes in Dubai. Age requirements, benefits, and what to expect.
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Last updated: April 2026
Start your kathak journey today
Book a free 30-minute trial lesson at our Karama studio. No commitment, no payment required.