Circle
New in Dubai? Meet other newcomers
Almost everyone in Dubai moved here from somewhere else, so newcomers are in good company. This circle is for people in their first year or two who want to explore the city with others who are also starting fresh.
Where people do this in Dubai
- Walkable, busy places that are easy to reach by Metro, such as Dubai Marina Walk, JBR and Downtown.
- Free cultural spots like the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz.
- Community events during the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which are free and friendly to first-timers.
How to find your people
- Say that you’re new. Most people remember that feeling and respond warmly.
- Pick one weekly habit, such as a class, a walk or a volunteering shift, so you see the same faces.
- Keep first plans short and close to the Metro so they’re easy to say yes to.
First plans for two
- A Saturday morning walk along the Creek and an abra ride
- Coffee and a browse around Alserkal Avenue
- Sunset at JBR with dinner nearby
Good to know
The Dubai Fitness Challenge runs from 31 October to 29 November 2026, with free community events across the city.
How the New in Dubai circle works
Members of this circle start plans that anyone in the circle can join, like a game, a walk or a coffee, and answer one quick question a week. Plans are always in public places and arranged by members. Friendship only, for grown-ups 18 and over.
Already a member? Join this circle in the app.
Related circles
Coffee & conversationA friendship circle for people who enjoy cafés and unhurried conversation in Dubai. Low-pressure first meetings, close to home.
Food explorersA friendship circle for people who love trying new restaurants, street food and home cooking in Dubai, and would rather explore with company.
Language exchangeA friendship circle for language exchange in Dubai: practise Arabic, English or another language over coffee, and help someone with yours.