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Starting the New Year Right in Dubai 

As a new year begins, it’s a chance to reset and look ahead. Whether you’re new to Dubai or have been here for a while, belong is here to help you make the most of it. Here are five tips to start the new year right:

1. Connect with Your Dubai Community:

Join belong’s Dubai community to meet new friends, discover exciting local events, and build meaningful connections. Building a support system is key to thriving in a new place. Connect with people who have similar interests and share your journey of exploring Dubai.

2. Set Achievable Goals:

Take some quiet time to set realistic goals for the year. Whether it’s a career milestone, a fitness target, or a personal project, belong connects you with people who share your ambitions. Collaborate with others to achieve your goals and support each other along the way.

3. Explore Dubai’s Hidden Gems:

Resolve to explore more of Dubai’s lesser-known places and local experiences. With belong’s diverse events and local groups, you can discover new spots and like-minded adventurers. Get insider tips from fellow members about the best places to explore in Dubai.

4. Prioritize Self-Care:

Start the year with a strong focus on self-care. Join wellness and mindfulness groups on belong to find support and practical tips for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. Learn from others’ experiences and share your self-care routines with the community.

5. Embrace New Experiences:

Challenge yourself to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, joining a class, or attending events, belong is your gateway to diverse opportunities. Discover unique experiences that you can enjoy with new friends from the belong community.

Thank you for being part of our journey. As we step into the new year, we’re excited about the adventures and connections ahead. If you haven’t already, download belong today, and let’s make 2024 an unforgettable year together.

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Celebrating Thanksgiving in Dubai with belong: Tips, Treats, and Tech

As Thanksgiving nears, we’re here to guide you in celebrating this heartwarming holiday right here in Dubai. Whether you’re an expat or a recent arrival, belong is your companion in making this Thanksgiving memorable in the comfort of your home.

Hosting a Traditional Thanksgiving in Dubai

Bringing the essence of Thanksgiving to your Dubai home can be both nostalgic and heartening. Here are some tips to help you create that traditional Thanksgiving atmosphere:

  • Indoor Setting: With the urban setting of Dubai, an indoor celebration can be both elegant and comfortable. Set up your dining area to create a warm, welcoming space.
  • Traditional Decor: Go for classic Thanksgiving decorations. Use warm, earthy tones, autumn leaves, pumpkins, and candles to create a festive atmosphere.

A Fun and Flavorful Thanksgiving Recipe

A Thanksgiving feast is a centerpiece of the celebration. Here’s a simple yet delightful recipe with a local twist:

Camel Milk Pumpkin Pie:

Transform your Thanksgiving dessert with this unique recipe. You’ll need a can of pumpkin puree, camel milk, eggs, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Mix the pumpkin puree, camel milk, eggs, brown sugar, and spices in a bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into a pie crust and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Once set, let it cool and enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream.

Make sure to share your creation with the belong foodies group to inspire others to host the perfect Thanksgiving feast. 

Stay Connected with belong

In the midst of your Thanksgiving preparations, don’t forget to engage with the belong community. Whether sharing your holiday plans, seeking tips, or extending a virtual invite, let’s use belong to bring everyone closer this festive season.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

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Dubai’s Spookiest Events and Spine-Chilling Fun

Halloween is creeping around the corner, and Dubai is ready to turn up the spook factor. It’s time to embrace the Halloween spirit and join the thrilling events happening in our city.

Barbie Takes Center Stage

We all know that Barbie is going to be a massive trend for Halloween outfits this year, thanks to the iconic film. Don’t miss the Halloween Party: Botched Barbieland on Tuesday, October 31st, 2023, at 1-OAK Dubai. Need a friend to come along? Find out who’s free on belong and make it a Halloween night to remember. 

Frightfully Good Food 

If Barbie is not your style, consider attending the Wanderlust Halloween Brunch on Saturday, October 28th, 2023, at Wanderlust at JW. Remember to take lots of photos to share with your fellow food lovers in the belong foodies group. 

Horror Film Night 

Dive into the world of horror movies, where you can discover and share spine-chilling films over the decades. Connect with fellow movie lovers over on our belong film TV/Movies interest tag and plan your next movie night ready for Halloween.

Spooky Spider Cookies Recipe

Try your hand at creating Spooky Spider Cookies to impress your Halloween guests. It’s a fun and creepy treat that will add a personal touch to your celebrations.

Ingredients:

  • Chocolate cookie mix
  • Chocolate truffle candies
  • Chocolate chips
  • Licorice strings

Instructions:

  1. Bake your favorite chocolate cookies and let them cool.
  2. Melt chocolate chips and use as glue to attach a chocolate truffle candy onto the center of each cookie.
  3. Break liquorice strings into small pieces and insert eight of them into the melted chocolate around the truffle candy to create spider legs.

Allow the chocolate to set, and your spooky spider cookies are ready to impress your Halloween guests. Make sure to share your spooky creations with us using the cooking interest tag.

Get Social This Halloween

Whether you’re a fan of horror films, thrilling parties, or dark dishes, Belong has you covered. Explore our wide range of Halloween events and activities, making it easier than ever to find your crowd and meet like-minded people. Join our community to discover more events, connect with new friends, and make unforgettable memories this Halloween season.

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Beat the Heat in Dubai: Cool Activities and New Friends Await with belong

We all know that Dubai’s scorching temperatures can make it tough to plan activities and stay social! So we’ve got the inside scoop on how to stay cool and try new things, all while meeting new people with the help of belong. So grab your shades, put on some sunscreen, and let’s dive into the fun-filled world of Dubai’s coolest activities.

Water Wonderland at Aquaventure Waterpark

When the heat starts rising, there’s no better place to be than a waterpark. Aquaventure is the ultimate oasis for thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts and it even holds a record for having the most water slides of any waterpark in the world. Plunge down towering slides, float along lazy rivers, or simply relax on a private beach. With belong, you can connect with fellow water park lovers who are ready to make a splash and have a good time in the Outdoors group.

Indoor Skiing at Ski Dubai

If things are heating up too much outside why not try cooling off in a ski resort? Yes, skiing in the desert is not only possible but also tons of fun. Head over to Ski Dubai, an incredible indoor ski resort where you can hit the slopes and experience the thrill of winter sports. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete novice, belong can connect you with skiing buddies to conquer the snowy slopes and share some epic wipeouts.

Chill Out at an Ice Lounge

Step into a winter wonderland in the heart of the desert. These unique establishments such as the Chillout Ice Lounge provide a cool escape from the scorching heat, where you can sip on icy beverages and marvel at intricately sculpted ice art. You will be able to find new friends to tackle these freezing temperatures in the belong lifestyle group.

Cool Treats and Tasty Eats

When the heat becomes unbearable, it’s time to seek refuge in some of Dubai’s coolest cafes and restaurants. belong can guide you to trendy spots for delicious treats and help you make new friends who share your love for all things delicious and cool. Head to the Foodies group where you can find friends to visit great establishments such as Puffin, where you can relax and eat some of the best gelato the city has to offer.

Dubai’s soaring temperatures don’t have to put a dampener on your adventurous spirit. With belong, you can dive headfirst into a world of exciting activities, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. So, why not embrace the heat, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on a journey to discover the coolest experiences Dubai has to offer? 

Download belong today and let the summer fun begin.

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Embrace Adventure: Try new Things with belong!

Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and experience the thrill of trying new things? We know that life can sometimes feel like a routine, but the secret to unlocking endless possibilities lies in embracing the unknown. ASKWHO is here to help you dive headfirst into exciting new adventures!

Break free from your comfort zone

We’ve all been there, cosy in our familiar bubble, doing the same things day in and day out. While there’s comfort in routine, it’s important to remember that life begins at the end of our comfort zones. Stepping into uncharted territory can be a bit scary, but trust us when we say that the rewards are absolutely worth it!

Boost your confidence

Trying new things expands your horizons, boosts your confidence, and adds a dash of excitement to your life. It’s like discovering a hidden treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be explored. With ASKWHO, you have the perfect platform to connect with like-minded individuals who are also looking to break free from the monotony.

Be adventurous

If you’re into adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving, you should check out the Palm skydiving experience where you can see the beautiful feats of Dubai from way above. Why not try out the sport group to find someone to go with? 

Or if you prefer exploring the city’s art scene, ASKWHO is your ultimate wingman with the art lovers group. Want to learn how to cook a mouth-watering Middle Eastern dish? Or maybe you’re dying to try your hand at a painting class? The possibilities are endless, and ASKWHO is here to help you find the perfect companions for your adventures.

Become an explorer

Imagine meeting someone who shares your passion for hiking, but you’ve never crossed paths before. Find a friend on ASKWHO and explore some of the beautiful trails Dubai has to offer such as the Hatta trial or the Wadi Naqab. Connect with a new hiking buddy in the outdoors group which is full of people that love to explore the natural world. ASKWHO connects you with people who are as eager as you are to try new things. 

How ASKWHO can help

Simply download the ASKWHO app, create your profile, and start browsing through a wide range of activities and interests. Looking for a like-minded friend? Then the new ASKWHO Discovery feature can help! Easily find locals within your area that share similar interests as yourself and swipe up to connect. It’s as easy as ordering your favourite dessert but with the added bonus of incredible experiences and new connections.

ASKWHO isn’t just about trying new activities; it’s about creating meaningful connections with people who share your passions. You’ll discover that exploring the unknown is even more enjoyable when you have someone to share the journey with. 

Let’s break free from the mundane and embark on a thrilling journey of discovery together. Let ASKWHO be your guide, and brace yourself for a whirlwind of excitement and personal growth.

Download the ASKWHO app now, and let the adventures begin!

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Unforgettable Experiences Await: Discover Dubai’s Spectacular June Events with belong!

As that summer heat rolls in, Dubai is buzzing with a lineup of events to keep you entertained throughout June. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado, music lover, or simply looking to indulge in some luxurious experiences, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the exciting happenings and see how ASKWHO can connect you with like-minded individuals to make the most of these incredible experiences…

Eid Al-Adha Celebrations

Get ready for a potential five-day weekend as Eid Al-Adha is expected to grace us on June 28th-30th. With Arafat Day falling on June 27, UAE residents can look forward to ample time off work to rest, recharge, and revel in the festivities. Celebrate the end of Ramadan in style and make sure to head to ASKWHO to see what the community is doing!

Men’s Arab Fashion Week

The much-awaited second edition of Men’s Arab Fashion Week is set for the Dubai Design District in June. Be prepared to witness the unveiling of the latest trends and designs as the region’s top fashion talents showcase their creations. Find fellow fashionistas in the ASKWHO Lifestyle group, get ready to swap fashion faux pas and style tips. 

Super Yacht Experience

Embark on a lavish journey aboard a 144-foot luxury super yacht that offers a breathtaking tour of Dubai’s iconic landmarks. Sail past Jumeirah Beach Residence, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewater Island, and more, while enjoying the top-notch amenities and the company of fellow adventure seekers. Be sure to check out the Lifestyle group on the app where you can find like-minded individuals that you can connect with to share this amazing experience with. 

Dubai is The Home of Great Entertainment

Dubai in June is a haven for unforgettable experiences, and ASKWHO is here to ensure that you don’t miss a moment of the action. Connect with individuals who share your interests, attend events together, and create lasting memories. 

Let ASKWHO be your companion in exploring the vibrant city of Dubai and forging new friendships along the way.

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Discover Unique Tastes with belong: World Cocktail Day and Dubai Food Festival 2023

World Cocktail Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring the city’s best bars? Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to catch up with friends or a rooftop lounge with stunning views, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for you…

Zuma Dubai

If you’re looking for a stylish spot, Zuma Dubai is the place to be. This Japanese-inspired bar boasts an impressive menu of sake, Japanese whisky, and creative cocktails that blend traditional and modern flavors. With its sleek interior design and panoramic views of the city skyline, Zuma is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

If you’re an art lover, why not invite your fellow art enthusiasts on the ASKWHO arts group to join you for a drink? 

The Penthouse

The Penthouse is a rooftop bar with breathtaking views on Palm Jumeirah. Located at the Five, this bar offers panoramic views of the marina skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Sip on their signature cocktails and enjoy some Mediterranean-inspired bites while taking in the stunning surroundings. With a live DJ night every Friday, keep the energy high until the early hours of the morning.

So get ready to send your invites out to the lifestyle group to join you on a Friday night at this award-winning rooftop bar. 

Armani/Lounge

When it comes to a truly glamorous night out the Armani/Lounge is the place to be. This exclusive club, located in the iconic Burj Khalifa, offers a luxurious atmosphere and a top-notch selection of cocktails, champagne, and spirits. With its picture-perfect decor and state-of-the-art sound system, ArmaniLounge is the spot for a night of dancing and celebration.

This one is also a top pick for style enthusiasts, why not reach out on the ASKWHO fashion tag for friends to come along? The club is known to host fashion shows and events featuring local and international designers that you won’t want to miss.

Dubai Food Festival 

Now that we’ve explored where to grab some of the best drinks in Dubai, let’s talk about food. This Dubai Food Festival is a must-attend event for all foodies, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences across the city. From street food to fine dining, you’ll find something to suit your tastes and budget. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights to look out for…

  • Beach Canteen: A pop-up beachside food village featuring tasty food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
  • Dubai Restaurant Week: A chance to sample some of the city’s best fine dining restaurants at special prices.
  • Foodie Experiences: A range of unique culinary experiences, from cooking classes to food tours.

Make sure to plan a meet-up with the foodies group while you’re there to experience the best of Dubai’s culinary scene together. 

With the upcoming Food Festival and World Cocktail Week, there’s never been a better time to explore the city’s great tastes. Cheers to a great World Cocktail Day, and we hope to see you at one of these amazing bars soon! Don’t forget to share pictures from your week with the rest of the ASKWHO community.

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Belong’s Guide to The Best Spots of Natural Beauty in Dubai

There’s no denying that Dubai is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Although it is known for its glittering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury hotels, there’s much more to this vibrant city than meets the eye. From beautiful beaches to stunning wildlife sanctuaries, for nature lovers, Dubai has a lot to offer. So, let’s explore the best spots of natural beauty in Dubai…

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Dubai, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This sanctuary is home to over 20,000 birds, including flamingos, herons, and eagles. It is free to visit and offers guided tours by foot or by boat – a great way to discover the different species of birds and wildlife. Why not head to the ASKWHO Outdoors group to see if there’s a fellow bird spotter to join you? 

Black Palace Beach

Dubai is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and Black Palace Beach is one of the best. This secluded beach is located in the Al Sufouh area and is a favorite spot for people seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

Black Palace Beach is known for its clear waters and pristine sands, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Dubai skyline but be warned – there aren’t many amenities here so make sure to come prepared. 

There are lots of ASKWHO members in the Lifestyle groups that would love a trip down to one of the most beautiful beaches. Make sure to let them know when you’ll be there. 

The Farm

The Farm is a unique destination in Dubai, offering visitors a taste of the countryside in the heart of the city. It is located in Al Barari, in the midst of a lush green oasis right in the middle of the desert. The Farm features a farm-to-table restaurant, an organic vegetable garden, and a nursery selling a variety of plants. During your visit, take a leisurely walk through the garden, sample fresh produce and admire the beautiful flowers. The restaurant at The Farm serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients, providing you with a unique dining experience.

Are you part of the Foodies group on ASKWHO? You need to be – head over and find a fellow foodie to join you on your trip to The Farm.

Escape the bustling city life

When you’re ready to explore a different and more natural side of Dubai make sure to hit up these 3 spots. Looking for some company? Remember to head over to the ASKWHO app to see if other members recommend these hot spots or if they want to join.

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Belong’S Guide to the Ultimate St Patrick’s Day 2023 in the UAE

Get ready to don your green, grab a shamrock, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with friends, family, or even strangers. You may not be able to make it over to Ireland or experience the festivities first-hand, but you can still have a great time celebrating this event right here in the UAE. Here are some ideas for you…

Get your leprechaun on

What better way to get into the spirit of St Patrick’s Day than by throwing your own Irish-themed party? Check out this party checklist to get you inspired…

  • Decorations – Go all out with decorations like shamrock banners or four-leaf clover balloons. You can even dress up to match your theme. 
  • Drinks – Have a go at making some green drinks like Shamrock Sours, mint mojitos or a non-alcoholic option like pistachio milkshakes. 
  • Activity – Set up a baking station for your guests to make their own goodies like traditional Irish soda bread or Guinness cupcakes. Don’t forget to keep the Irish music playing throughout the day.

Once you have everything prepared for your big celebrations, share your plans with the community group and open up the invitation to all. 

Say Sláinte at an Irish event 

Whether you’re looking for some delicious pub grub or just want to enjoy some live music, there are plenty of traditional Irish pubs around town offering specials on Guinness and other craft brews. Here are some celebrations you can head to with the lifestyle group…

  • Fibber Magee’s is Dubai’s oldest and most iconic Irish pub so there should be no surprise that they will be celebrating true Irish style. Head here for the best Guinness in town, homely pub grub, live entertainment and sports. 
  • If live music is what you are after this holiday then look no further than The Irish Village in Garhoud where they will be hosting their annual St Paddy’s Bash with an array of bands performing a variety of traditional Irish tunes throughout the day. 
  • Nobody does St Patrick’s Day in Dubai better than McGettigan’s. The beloved pub is pulling out all the stops for St Paddy’s Day 2023 by hosting the ultimate festival at Media City Amphitheatre with The Script confirmed as headline act. With brunch & festival packages which include unlimited drinks, you can choose how hard you want to celebrate this holiday.

Don’t forget to mark March 17th on your calendar – it’ll be here before you know it. You can also find an array of events, celebrations and all around fun-times on the ASKWHO community group. Happy St Patrick’s Day🍀

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day and Meet Friends in Dubai with belong

As we know, Valentine’s Day season is all about spending quality time with those closest to us. There are many ways to celebrate this special holiday and make lasting memories here in Dubai, so let’s take a look at some of our top ideas for February 14th…

An evening indoors 

Have a romantic comedy marathon and watch some fan favorites with your closest friends such as ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, ‘The Notebook’ and ‘How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days’. Give the night that Valentine’s feel by adding themed snacks like candy hearts or heart-shaped chocolate. If movies aren’t up your alley, why not try hosting a games night? Our community group is the perfect way to find friends in Dubai.

Out on the town

Just because it’s Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean that every restaurant or bar will be filled with couples – in fact some venues have events specifically made for singles. So why not start organizing your Palentine’s day and take a trip to one of these nights out with all your friends…

  • Sail away into the sunset with the Women only Valentine’s Day Sunset Yacht Cruise! Complete with an amazing DJ, delicious signature drinks & treats, and surprises to make it extra special. Come dressed in your most glamorous white, pink or red outfit – you deserve only royal treatment!
  • Celebrate the ultimate Palentine’s Night at STK JBR. The two-course or three-course meal features some of STK’s famous dishes – inclusive of three complimentary drinks for all the ladies. 

Cooking together 

Why not throw a big banquet night with someone special? Make each other’s favorite dish and create a delicious feast together. You can even take it one step further and create a themed night like ‘Italian Night’ or ‘Hollywood Romance’. Don’t forget to share pictures with the lifestyle group. 

Get active outdoors
If you’re feeling more adventurous, take advantage of the beautiful weather and do something outdoors. There are various activities to do as a group such as hiking trips, camping excursions and kayaking in Dubai but one of our favorites is the desert safari with BBQ dinner. It doesn’t matter if you have never done these activities before – it could be a great opportunity to learn something new. Meet people in Dubai by inviting the outdoors group to tag along to your next adventure. 

So get ready to plan a day of fun with your amazing group of friends this year and explore the many events in Dubai that are on offer. Remember to connect with the ASKWHO community and share what you get up.  

Happy Valentine’s Day from us!