ClassPass is launching in Abu Dhabi on March 20. Courtesy ClassPass
ClassPass is launching in Abu Dhabi on March 20. Courtesy ClassPass
ClassPass is launching in Abu Dhabi on March 20. Courtesy ClassPass
ClassPass is launching in Abu Dhabi on March 20. Courtesy ClassPass

ClassPass set to launch in Abu Dhabi on March 20


Sophie Prideaux
  • English
  • Arabic

The studios taking part (so far)
  1. Punch
  2. Vogue Fitness 
  3. Sweat
  4. Bodytree Studio
  5. The Hot House
  6. The Room
  7. Inspire Sports (Ladies Only)
  8. Cryo

Fitness app ClassPass is set to launch in Abu Dhabi for the first time this week.

ClassPass, which is already active in Dubai, announced its plans to expand to the capital earlier this year when it acquired GuavaPass, a similar app which gave users access to multiple classes and fitness clubs.

ClassPass’s launch in the capital will allow any members from around the world to access a number of Abu Dhabi’s fitness studios, gyms and classes for a monthly fee, taking part in classes including yoga, cycling, Pilates, barre, running, strength training, and dance.

Some of the fitness studios taking part include Fitness First, Bodytree Studio, The Room, and The Hot House, along with Punch and Cryo, which are new additions for the app and were not previously available on GuavaPass.

Punch is Abu Dhabi's boutique boxing gym. Pawan Singh / The National
Punch is Abu Dhabi's boutique boxing gym. Pawan Singh / The National

“On the heels of a successful launch in Dubai expanding into Abu Dhabi is an exciting next step,” says Chloe Ross, VP of International at ClassPass. “The fitness scene is quickly growing in the UAE and we’re thrilled to bring the benefits of ClassPass to another health-conscious population that will enjoy the variety and seamless discovery the platform delivers.”

Users of GuavaPass had been able to continue their membership in the two months since ClassPass announced the takeover, but from March 20, when ClassPass launches, the GuavaPass membership will cease and users will be given the option to sign up to ClassPass.

The main difference between the two services is the price. While the Abu Dhabi pricing hasn't been announced yet, we do know what the current billing is for Dubai.

ClassPass is worked out on a monthly credit system and works out as Dh159 for two to three classes, Dh309 for five to seven classes, Dh479 for eight to 12 classes or Dh749 for 13 to 20 classes.

However, ClassPass is offering new Abu Dhabi customers a one-month free trial, which can be redeemed at www.classpass.com/try/abu-dhabi.

Teaching your child to save

Pre-school (three - five years)

You can’t yet talk about investing or borrowing, but introduce a “classic” money bank and start putting gifts and allowances away. When the child wants a specific toy, have them save for it and help them track their progress.

Early childhood (six - eight years)

Replace the money bank with three jars labelled ‘saving’, ‘spending’ and ‘sharing’. Have the child divide their allowance into the three jars each week and explain their choices in splitting their pocket money. A guide could be 25 per cent saving, 50 per cent spending, 25 per cent for charity and gift-giving.

Middle childhood (nine - 11 years)

Open a bank savings account and help your child establish a budget and set a savings goal. Introduce the notion of ‘paying yourself first’ by putting away savings as soon as your allowance is paid.

Young teens (12 - 14 years)

Change your child’s allowance from weekly to monthly and help them pinpoint long-range goals such as a trip, so they can start longer-term saving and find new ways to increase their saving.

Teenage (15 - 18 years)

Discuss mutual expectations about university costs and identify what they can help fund and set goals. Don’t pay for everything, so they can experience the pride of contributing.

Young adulthood (19 - 22 years)

Discuss post-graduation plans and future life goals, quantify expenses such as first apartment, work wardrobe, holidays and help them continue to save towards these goals.

* JP Morgan Private Bank 

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The studios taking part (so far)
  1. Punch
  2. Vogue Fitness 
  3. Sweat
  4. Bodytree Studio
  5. The Hot House
  6. The Room
  7. Inspire Sports (Ladies Only)
  8. Cryo