How to develop your social circle in Abu Dhabi
Expats in Abu Dhabi can establish a social network through various ways, such as joining expat groups online and offline, attending poetry nights or art fairs, joining various interest groups, or volunteering for different causes. The expat community in the capital is thriving, and for those searching for the perfect work–life balance, networking with fellow expats is for you.
Join an online group in Abu Dhabi
There are many online groups available for residents to get together when connected by common interests. For example, there are groups for expat moms, expat women and groups for Indian expats, etc. This way, members organize coffee mornings or get-togethers, and it is a great way to socialize with fellow expats.
Take up a sport in Abu Dhabi
Various sports facilities in the city organize events or sports sessions that anyone can participate in. By joining, expats can make friends with like-minded sportspeople.
Join a fitness group in Abu Dhabi
For those who are into fitness and sports, groups, depending on your interests, organize events. Many expats make friends here while engaging in sports and fitness routines.
You can find a lot of these groups and events on Meetup. They're usually free to attend and happen on a regular basis, making it easier to become part of a community.
Attend a poetry session with fellow writers in Abu Dhabi
If you are more of the literary type, there are Abu Dhabi poets who get together in cafés and restaurants to share their work. Here, you can make friends with group members over a cup of coffee or even a meal.
One of the most popular poetry events is Rooftop Rhythms, hosted by NYU Abu Dhabi. They have open mic sessions where you can attend and listen to others read, or get on stage and read your own work. They also hold poetry competitions which you can choose to participate in.
Go to an art fair in Abu Dhabi
Artsy types usually get together at art fairs or exhibits. There are different activities to participate in, and it is also an excellent opportunity for networking.
The busiest one is the annual Abu Dhabi Art Fair, where local and international galleries come together to showcase art pieces and installations. The fair also hosts a number of different events, such as workshops, talks, and competitions.
Join workshops or networking events in Abu Dhabi
Leadership workshops or networking events to further hone your professional skills are available all year round. These workshops have networking sessions where you can meet different people and ultimately make friends.
You can stay up to date on the latest networking events through All Events.
Attend free fairs organized by expats in Abu Dhabi
During the Christmas season, there are a lot of Christmas fairs around the city. A lot of expats frequent such events, and you can mingle with them and make friends while you adjust to Abu Dhabi expat life.
You can also attend some of the bigger Christmas markets that take place every season, such as the Yas Winter Fest or Snow Abu Dhabi's Winter Wonderland.
Make friends and socialize at your workplace in Abu Dhabi
The easiest way to make new friends is to socialize at your workplace. Your fellow workmates may also be expats like you. Take time to get to know them and find people who will get along with you easily. This way, you get to make friends and even build relationships that can last a lifetime.
Be kind to your neighbors in Abu Dhabi
Neighbors are also a great start to making friends as an expat in Abu Dhabi. After all, you are going to be seeing them a lot. Whether you live in a building or a villa, making friends with your neighbors will make your life a lot easier, especially when you feel like entertaining friends at your home or maybe even asking for small favors while you are gone.
If you live within a community, common areas such as the pool or parks are a great place to meet others.
Say yes to opportunities that will make you meet new people in Abu Dhabi
Lastly, always be open to opportunities to make new friends. Go out and mingle with fellow expats and locals instead of keeping to yourself. Abu Dhabi is a great place to make friends with people of different nationalities. This will open your mind and will make your expat life a lot more interesting.
Below are some popular networking websites in Abu Dhabi:
Expatwoman.com (Abu Dhabi forum)
This website for expats has a forum and organizes coffee mornings, meetups, and networking opportunities for expat women in Abu Dhabi (and the rest of Emirates).
British Expats
It is a website for British citizens who want to be expats in Abu Dhabi. A useful forum is also featured on their website where people can interact with each other as well as other resources.
Americans in Abu Dhabi
This is a group of American expats that meet up every Thursday of every month. There are more or less 100 members currently.
American Women's Network (AWN)
Active since 1994, this group has provided social events, resources, and activities for American women adjusting to expat life in Abu Dhabi. Membership is free.
Australians Abroad
This is a website for Aussie expats in the capital that provides resources, guides, and networking opportunities.
Irish in Abu Dhabi
This group is for the Irish community in Abu Dhabi. It sets up networking events and meet-and-greets and generally connects members of the community.
Useful links:
