Find your tribe: how to make friends in the UAE

I’ve had people come and go over the last 17 years. Some of those friendships will last a lifetime, others were fleeting – a playdate in the park with kids, someone to chat with over a work project, or a lovely neighbour. Here are my top tips and local gems to help you find your village in the city:

BE VULNERABLE

I’m always in awe of the people who post on Facebook pages saying “I’m new” or “I’m a NUFC fan and heading to watch the match – anyone free to join?” or “I’m living in XXX with kids and we both want a play date!”

There is always an outpouring of comments and DMs. Keep an out for these posts or share yourself. If you don’t ask, you don’t get.

CONNECT THROUGH GROUPS

Trust me, you’re not alone in your need to belong. There are others who want friends! And thankfully you can find them through meets ups like Women Who Thrive, Coffee With An Expat and Brotherhood UAE, plus business groups that are specific to your profession, industry or entrepreneurship.

Yes, going for the first time might feel like a massive cringe, but chances are everyone else is a bit nervous, too, and the organisers are on hand to help.

BE OPEN TO MEETING PEOPLE ANYWHERE. LITERALLY

I’ve made friends in car parks, hospital waiting rooms, Instagram… Being up for talking, or starting a conversation can lead to unexpected interactions. An eyeroll while waiting in a long queue, asking a genuine question, or for advice, patting a friendly dog on your morning walk.

Be open.

THROUGH THE KIDS

Yup, it’s a cliche, but mums’ groups, parent meetups at school and those weekend activities really help to meet people if you don’t just drop and run.

Groups like Pirates Surf become special if you take the time to go beyond the “Good morning!” and take part in the wider community such as camping trips or padel lessons. Maybe it’s a chat during your kids’ rugby practice, having a coffee after drop off, or arranging a night out for the parents class WhatsApp group – you already have something in common, which helps a lot.

RETURN TO A HOBBY OR SPORT YOU LOVED

I’ve recently joined a choir but whatever your passion is – start it again. While some gyms are all grunting and ego, others like The Training Room has a really welcome vibe, and hosts weekend hikes and social nights. Maybe it’s netball, book clubs, five-a-side, boxing, a course with The Tasting Class or supper clubs? There are groups for all sorts of passions and pastimes.

Good luck, be brave and know anyone would be lucky to count you as a friend.