There’s no easier way to meet people with similar hobbies to you than by joining in with an activity you share an interest in. There are hundreds of classes going on around the city that provide a perfect meeting ground for new people, and sharing a passion for being creative. And whilst you might be on your own in Abu Dhabi, the opportunities to flex your imagination and learn new skills are exhaustive.
Even if you are a complete beginner when it comes to being artistic or inventive, why not think about trying:
Abu Dhabi Salsa
Learn to gyrate like a pro at Salsa classes. Hitting the dance floor with a new partner or as part of a group is a quick icebreaker when it comes to meeting people, and with classes tailored for both experienced and novice dancers no one is made to feel as though their two left feet are letting them down. After one cha-cha experience you will most certainly have made some friends!
www.abudhabisalsa.com.
Take a cooking class
There are a variety of cooking classes around the capital, many of which have large class sizes. This makes slaving over the stove conducive to chit-chat, so you’ll never be confronted by an awkward silence or feel out of place. The classes tend to sit around 10-15 people a session so you’ll be whipping up a social storm by the end. Try Jones the Grocer or The Yacht Club’s sushi rolling to start.
Jones the Grocer, Al Mamoura
(02 443 8762). The Yacht Club, InterContinental Hotel (02 666 6888).
Sit in on an NYU lecture
Abu Dhabi’s New York University, (NYUAD) offers free seminars to the public across a wide range of interesting topics. All you have to do is research the presentation you like the look of and sign up online. Each lecture is informative, welcoming to individuals and you just may meet someone who shares your interests, whether they be art, social sciences, politics or any other area of academics. The events run regularly and are hosted at various locations around the city.
www.nyuad.com.
Discover photography
It’s always a handy skill to have, on holidays, at events, out and about; so why not increase your exposure to the photography community? You may have an aperture for it, or for meeting others who enjoy the art.
Gulf Photo Plus, www.gulfphotoplus.com (04 360 2365). Keylite Studios, wwwjayalonzophotoworkshop.com (050 908 7085).
Go Potty
Why not dive in to one of Abu Dhabi’s own pottery classes? They run weekly and not only will you have the chance to mingle; you can create some crockery too! Be ready to get your hands dirty.
www.abudhabipottery.com.
View Make friends: Social groups to join in Abu Dhabi
View Do something good: Volunteer in Abu Dhabi
View Where to play sport in Abu Dhabi
