Making friends in Dubai as an adult is hard—here’s how to make it easier (and way more fun).
With over 88% of the UAE made up of expats, most of us are starting from scratch—new city, new job, new everything. Making friends as an adult? Not exactly easy. But you’re not alone—and putting yourself out there doesn’t have to be scary when you’ve got the right places to start.
And where better to start than with a community of girlies already doing exactly that? Here is a list of hobbies and activities that will help you meet like-minded people today. Cue Justin Bieber’s One Less Lonely Girl
Expat Football Association
Why you’ll love it:
Did you think playing sports stopped once you hit your 20s? Not here! Reconnect with the game you use to love while joining a community of baddies and getting in a killer workout. The Expat Football Association hosts games every Sunday, with training sessions during the week. You’ll meet girls from all over the world, coming together to defeat a common enemy—what better bonding than that?
Bonus: You’ll get one heck of a workout. I mean, when was the last time you were doing full-on sprints at the gym? Exactly.
Where: Teams and training sessions are based all over Dubai
How to join: Fill out the form online or DM them on Instagram @efaladies
Five678 Dance Studio
Why you’ll love it:
Want to join something fun but feel like you’re in your soft girl era? Dance class is where it’s at. Five678 offers a range of classes for every level—from salsa to ballet to commercial, and a personal fave: heels. You’ll be performing like Tate McRae on tour in no time. With group classes, you’re sure to meet girlies who love to dress cute and leave it all on the dance floor. Not to mention, nothing makes learning a new activity easier when there are other newbies to laugh about it with.
Bonus: Those new moves will def come in handy next time you’re out at the clurb.
Where: Warehouse 24, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Dubai
How to join: Buy a single pass or package online
Fable Book Club
Why you’ll love it:
If your ideal Friday night is spent cozy at home with a good book, Fable is the community for you. This book-tracking social app is perfect for building friendships through a shared love of storytelling. Join your favorite influencer’s book club or start a hot topic thread on a spicy chapter (we’re looking at you, ACOMAF Chapter 55).
Bonus: Bring your book club to life IRL with a matcha and some book gossip.
Where: Online at Fable.com
How to join: it is free to sign up
Irin Art Dubai
Why you’ll love it:
Brush up on your brushstrokes and connect with fellow art lovers looking to perfect their craft. Art classes are relaxing, creative, and an easy way to meet people of all ages. Share techniques, swap tips, and bond over your latest masterpiece. They say a picture is worth a thousand words—so what better icebreaker to spark conversation?
Bonus: Sip and paint classes = the ultimate girly date night. Crisp rosé in one hand, paintbrush in the other? Say less.
Where: Palm Jumeirah
How to join: Adult classes start at AED 250 online
Cosmopolitan Hot Girl Walk
Why you’ll love it:
Sun shining, birds singing, coffee in hand—Cosmo’s Hot Girl Walks are the perfect excuse for a casual morning stroll and a good yap. If you’re a die-hard Cosmo reader, chances are you love all things fashion, beauty, and lifestyle—aka, the perfect space to find your vibe twin. These walks happen every few weeks across Dubai and bring together girls from all kinds of backgrounds and careers.
Bonus: Thanks to Cosmo’s cool collabs, you can sometimes win free merch and goodie bags!
Where: Keep an eye on Cosmopolitan.com and their Instagram for upcoming walks
How to join: Registration is free! Be one of the first girlies to sign up and you might score some fun extras.
Friendships don’t just fall into your lap—you have to create opportunities for them. Whether it’s football, books, or painting with rosé, there’s a space for you out there. Don’t be afraid to take the first step—you’ve got this queen.
