If you think you’re the only person in Abu Dhabi with time on their hands but no one to spend it with, then you couldn’t be more wrong. The influx of people moving into the capital from overseas means that a lot of newbies find themselves wandering the city’s streets in search of similar singletons. It’s therefore not surprising that there are a host of social groups have sprung up in Abu Dhabi in the past few years, and that these networks are a fantastic starting point for increasing the size of your contact book in the capital.
Here are some of our favourites:
Meetup.com
Whether your passion is sport, food, culture, a particular hobby or just socialising, Meet Up has an array of opportunities for individuals to participate in and meet like minds. On top of all that the service is free to join, so if you are looking to find a new social circle then this website should be your first port of call.
www.meetup.com.
Abu Dhabi Unattached
A group that can be found on the Meet Up website, Abu Dhabi Unattached is a 900-person strong alliance that meets weekly around the capital. The group is for individuals who want to explore and socialise with people who are in a similar situation to themselves – mostly ex-pats who have relocated to the UAE for work. The group engages in various activities, including volunteering, recreational sports, social events and cultural activities.
Search ‘ADunattached’ on www.meetup.com.
Aussies Abroad
Aussies Abroad is a not-for-profit group not limited to Australians (although you will find a healthy proportion of the regulars are from down under), which organises social events throughout the year. Newcomers are welcomed warmly by the society’s Aussie and non-Aussie members. Specific events tend to be organised around Australian days of significance. Sign up to get great discounts at events and off tickets and services around Abu Dhabi too.
www.aussiesabroad-abudhabi.com.
Irish Society
The Irish Society is a cohort of Irish and non-Irish Abu Dhabi residents that raises money for charities. The group recently sent the Abu Dhabi entrant to the international Rose of Tralee competition, as well as holding festivities and having an all-round good time! So if music and good cheer is your ideal setting for meeting new people, then this is certainly a society for you.
www.irishsociety abudhabi.com (050 314 1922).
St Andrews’ Scottish Society
The Scottish society hosts a Chieftain’s Ball annually, as well as Ceilidhs where you can learn traditional Scottish dancing and meet other revellers. There’s generally a buffet dinner too, with large mixed tables and everyone is very friendly, so don’t be hesitant about pitching up to an event on your own. Kilts are welcome as are individuals, couples and family groups.
www.adscots.com (050 646 6558).
Theatre Groups
Acting and drama groups are a great way of introducing yourself into a new community, while simultaneously joining in with an activity you enjoy. Although not extensive, there is an ‘am-dram’ scene here in Abu Dhabi, with groups that are always on the lookout for new members. Resuscitation Theatre is one such community group for aspiring thespians. If you have what it takes, drama here is a fun way to socialise and release your inner drama queen or king. You can participate in the group’s productions by either treading the boards yourself or helping out backstage.
www.resuscitationtheatre.com (050 827 1563).
Real Housewives of Abu Dhabi
The Facebook group’s name is fairly self-explanatory. Housewives in the capital with time on their hands share their interests, have coffee mornings and promote different social outings. The group is not necessarily just for housewives; however the meetings are mostly during the business day.
www.facebook.com/realhousewivesofabudhabi.
Clubs to join
The Club Abu Dhabi
The Club is a private members club that welcomes enquiries from residents of Abu Dhabi interested in joining. There are restaurants, a gym, pool, beach facilities and more. In order to apply for membership, all applicants must hold UAE residency and it is advantageous if the application is sponsored by three current members.
www.the-club.com
Abu Dhabi Women’s Group
ADWG have been established here in Abu Dhabi for many years, they are so much more than a coffee meet up. They have activities and outings, have a tennis club, golf section, a book club and many other subgroups members can join. Quite often they have a guest speaker addressing the coffee group and are very open to suggestions for new speakers or activities. ADWG are involved in charity fundraising, and are happy to ‘put something back’ into the community.
www.abudhabiwomensgroup.com
Abu Dhabi Mums
Abu Dhabi Mums began back in 1994, with a group of four mums and children who met each week to socialise. Since then they have thrived and in doing so have become a voluntary membership organisation with over 500 members from across the world.
www.abudhabimums.ae
View Try something new: Classes to join in Abu Dhabi
View Do something good: Volunteer in Abu Dhabi
View Where to play sport in Abu Dhabi
