As babies and perhaps even more so as adults, twins, triplets, quads, quints and even larger groups of multiples always attract interest. Are they really psychic? Do they still wear matching outfits? We’ve put these questions to three pairs of the 400 sets of twins and triplets currently signed up for the UAE’s first Multiples Festival, which runs from Friday March 23 to Saturday 24. It’s hot on the heels of their JBR PR stunt, which saw a flash mob of 15 sets of twins descend on The Walk on Friday March 2. The brainchild of long-term Dubai residents Nathalie Attar and Suman Manning, both 37 and mothers to twins and triplets respectively, Manning describes the festival as ‘a family weekend to bring together multiples of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds, and celebrate twin-ness’.

Manning, who runs a support group for parents of multiples, claims the duo decided to put together the event after bumping into a new twin ‘almost every day’, and explains the event will cater to multiples young and old. ‘There are lots of activities, for the kids – bouncy castles, face painting, art classes and so on, but there are also information stands and it’s going to be a place where parents can meet nurseries, insurance companies and others promoting their services.’

Of course, that’s not all. There will be up to 10 contests for multiples to enter, including youngest, oldest, and most and least alike. Importantly, there will also be a prize for the most deserving mother (to tie in with Mother’s Day). ‘We’re trying not to be biased, but we do hear some stories and it makes you think – it’s all about perspective. I just have to think about the lady who called us the other day to tell us about having both seven-year-old twins and six-year-old twins,’ Manning laughs. The event is open to all, regardless of whether you shared a womb, and promises to be interesting, welcoming and lots of fun.
Adults Dhs20, children Dhs10, family day ticket (two adults, three children) Dhs45, family weekend ticket Dhs70. Friday March 23-Saturday 24. 10am-6pm. Safa Park, www.x2-me.com (050 718 0747).