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New Year’s Resolutions: Meet people in Dubai and make the best out of 2023 with belong

It’s that time of year again – the holidays have officially ended and the New Year has begun. What better way to start off 2023 than planning out your New Year’s resolutions? Whether you’re looking to get healthy, find friends in Dubai, or step outside your comfort zone, we’re here to help you make it all possible. Here are some of the best New Year’s resolutions for challenging yourself…

Get healthy and stay active 

One of the most popular resolutions each year is improving fitness. Joining a gym class or working out with friends can be incredibly motivating and fun at the same time. Plus there are plenty of events in Dubai which offer activities such as yoga classes or kickboxing sessions — whatever suits your needs. 

Try something new 

The start of a new year is the perfect time to try something new. With so much to see and unique things to do in Dubai, it’s easy to find something that will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. Here are some suggestions… 

  • With an array of famous hiking trails such as Fossil Rock, Shawka Dam Mountain Trail and Wadi Naqab, you can challenge yourself to explore more nature this year. 
  • Plan a trip to one of the unique camel racing events this year which combines this centuries-old heritage sport with innovative technology taking the lead.
  • Take a leap of faith and jump start your new year with an extreme sport experience, such as bungee jumping from 300 ft at Gravity Zone

Spend time outdoors

We can spend too long inside watching our television screens and laptops – let’s make 2023 the year of exploring the great outdoors. Not sure where to start? You’re in luck! We have an amazing event coming up that will take you back to nature… 

Longbeach Campground Overnight Glamping on 14th of January 2023

Join and meet other ASKWHO members at this incredible camping stay at one of UAE’s hidden gems. 

With plenty of outdoor social activities and amazing accommodations, you’re in for a weekend to remember. Book your tent here.

Start 2023 off right and find adventurous and cool things to do in Dubai with ASKWHO. You can even connect to our lifestyle group to meet new friends from around the world and achieve those New Year goals together. 

We’re wishing you a happy new beginning and hope 2023 is your best year yet.

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Christmas with belong; Mental Health Support and Events in Dubai

The festive season has begun and while this is known as the most wonderful time of the year, some of us may be feeling a little low. It’s a tough time of year for many so it is more than natural to feel down, especially when you’re away from loved ones. 

However you are feeling this Christmas period, you are not alone. In fact, you’ll be surprised to know that many people around you are likely experiencing similar challenges. Here are some ways you can find support in Dubai this December…

Things to do in Dubai at Christmas

Sometimes holiday loneliness can stem from all of the festive activities happening around you. Keeping yourself busy and finding things to look forward to is a key part of starting to feel good again. So why not get involved and visit a few unmissable events in Dubai…

  • Hear your favourite festive songs performed live at the Dubai Opera’s ‘The Sound of Christmas’ event this year. Invite the art group to share the evening in this whimsical and picturesque concert hall.  
  • Enjoy a day of entertainment, attractions and a large variety of dining options including traditional meals at Habtoor Palace’s annual Winter Garden event. Reach out to our foodies group to find friends who can tag along.

Expressing your feelings 

Simply talking it out with friends or family is one of the best ways you can release some emotions and lift the weight off your shoulders. How would you feel if someone you cared about was struggling with the same feelings but keeping it all to themselves? 

We understand that it can be difficult to reach out about things like this, but just keep in mind if it was the other way around you would be more than happy to help. Meet friends in Dubai on ASKWHO for those times when you could do with a boost from socialising with friends.

Working through it together 

Knowing you’re not the only one struggling through tough times makes all the difference. ASKWHO was created to bring together a community of great people and help them on their journey to discover the best of Dubai. Our app is filled with a range of groups and interest topics, meaning you can easily find like-minded people to connect with. 

Alternatively, you may wish to source further support this December with professional guidance. With endless resources available, access the help that works best for you… 

Attend an event – There are plenty of great social gatherings happening through this festive season. Take the opportunity to join one of our events.

Life coach – These types of professional coaches are great for making an impact on your day-to-day life and helping you structure your goals. 

Chat line – Support workers can lend that listening ear for whatever you’d like to get off your chest this Christmas.


Stay connected this Christmas time and don’t struggle in silence. Our ASKWHO community is always available to find upcoming events and things to do, giving you the space to meet people in Dubai you can explore with.

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The Best of Winter Activities in Dubai this Christmas

Do you wish it could be Christmas every day? With unique and traditional events happening all around, you will have no issues finding the Christmas activities that suits all of your interests. Here are our top-pick events for a holiday season you’ll always remember…

Something New 

While traditions are something you’ll want to hold on to, why not opt for something completely new this year? After all, that’s the only way new traditions can be found. Let’s look at some events in Dubai this December…

  • Grab your shoes and North Pole outfits when you sign up for the Dubai Santa Fun Run. This event suits runners of all abilities with several distances to choose from.  
  • Experience a night of entertainment, attractions and a large variety of dining options at Habtoor Palace’s annual Winter Garden event.  
  • Bringing Winter Wonderland to the desert, Ski Dubai guarantees a white Christmas this year with free hot chocolate up for grabs and a chance to meet Santa himself. 

We’re sure you’ll have an incredible time whatever quirky event you choose to attend this Christmas. Not sure who to bring along? Find friends in Dubai who are also looking to experience more this December on ASKWHO. 

Unmissable Theatre Productions 

The theatre has always held a special and nostalgic feel for many people, especially during Christmas. Take a trip to a must-see production this year and indulge in a night of pure magic. Let’s look at some options… 

The Snow Queen, a Frozen Tale – An immersive tale the whole family can enjoy at QE2. With festive costumes and animations, this magical production will bring you all the festive cheer you need. 

The Nutcracker –  This legendary jewel of classic ballet has been a staple performance across the world for decades. Immerse yourself in this nostalgic tale at Dubai Opera this December.

Elf The Musical – Inspired by the popular Hollywood Christmas film, Elf, this bright and colorful musical will be showing at the Theatre at Mall of the Emirates. 

Theatre’s better with friends. Meet people in Dubai you can invite to your evening of theatre on the ASKWHO app. The art group is full of fellow performance lovers ready for any event. 

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Take a Bite Out of These Cooking Tips and Find Friends in Dubai

As the cooler nights start to roll in and we opt to spend more hours outdoors here in Dubai, we also have more time on our hands to explore different hobbies and skills. 

Fancy baking a delicious treat or cooking up your most-loved dish? Cooking is an amazing social activity whether you’re hosting or it’s a joint effort all round. Check out these tips for advancing your cooking skills and becoming the chef you’ve always wanted to be…

My compliments to the chef

One of the best ways to explore new flavours and dishes is to get inspiration from your favorite restaurants. So why not get out and experience a taste of something new at one of these events in Dubai …

  • Close your eyes and let your other senses get to work. Dinner in the Dark at Fresh Basil, Bab Al Qasr, is an immersive experience where you eat in a pitch-black room. Chat with fellow diners and guess the flavours, until the end when ​​the lights get turned on and the dishes are finally revealed.  
  • Located on Bluewaters Island, The Pods give you stunning views of Dubai Marina. The Pan Asian menu includes Chinese and Japanese dishes, from dim sum to sushi – make sure to try the beef rendang curry, it’s soft, spicy and sweet.
  • If you believe that there is always room for dessert, then you will love BRIX. The restaurant creates a unique dessert experience, as it has the UAE’s only dessert-tasting menus. The wide-ranging menu includes milk cake, tiramisu, carrot cake and cheesecake.

These immersive experiences are definitely on our list of must-try ​​things to do in Dubai at night. Meet people in Dubai to share incredible dining nights with under the ASKWHO restaurants tag.

Practise makes perfect

The best way to advance a skill is by practising. Why not host your own dinner party this festive season? Showcase the food you make best while setting yourself a challenge to cook a fresh dish specially for the night. Let’s look at some dinner party theme inspiration… 

Family heritage: Have a fun night exploring your guest’s family heritage, when you invite everyone to ​​make a treasured family recipe.

Pizza for everyone: Making pizza is fun, but making pizza with friends is even better. Set up the ultimate toppings bar for your guest to customise their own. 

Decades party: Throw it back to a decade of choice and indulge in the best dishes from that era. Elevate your event by adding a dress from the decade costume element. 

Enjoy the best of fun things to do in Dubai by finding friends you can invite to any event. Reach out to fellow food lovers on our ASKWHO foodies group. 

Bon Appetite

Developing any type of skill or hobby can be incredibly rewarding and help you find a new passion. Now that we have looked at a couple of ways to boost those chef skills, we want to share with you the best cooking combo of all …

… that is sharing your journey with those who are currently doing the same and loving it.

Get cooking tips and share your top tricks with the ASKWHO foodies group. Chop it like it’s hot this November and join ASKWHO.

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Celebrating Thanksgiving in Dubai with Friends

Things are getting festive as we’re quickly approaching the holiday season. We’re here to share with you some of the best Thanksgiving events in Dubai and ways to celebrate while you’re away from home. 

Dining out right this holiday 

Exploring different cultures and traditions is a great way to indulge yourself in the rich history of a new location. As we know Thanksgiving is all about the food, but so why not try something new this year with some fantastic local cuisine straight from Dubai’s best heritage restaurants? Here are our top restaurant recommendations this November…

  • Enjoy views of the Dubai Fountain on Burj Khalifa Lake while dining and immersing yourself in authentic Emirati cuisine at Siraj Restaurant.
  • Experience Emirati cuisine in Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi district, Arabian Tea House offers a peaceful escape from hectic city life with its skylight-roofed dining area.
  • Al Fanar Restaurant is the place to find traditional Emirati dishes in a setting designed to immerse you into a time when Dubai was just a small desert village.

Amazing food is better enjoyed with friends. Meet people in Dubai to share incredible dining experiences on the ASKWHO foodies group.

A dinner party for all

You may have heard of bringing your own dish night, but have you heard of Bring Your Own Board night? Get everyone involved and create an evening to remember when your guests make their own board to bring along to your Thanksgiving party. Let’s look at some inspiration for your BYOB night… 

Turkey board: You can’t have Thanksgiving without some turkey. Create your own meat selection board full of your favourites to share at the table. 

Classic charcuterie board:  Mix various kinds of cheese, olives and nuts, fruit and crackers, or small slices of bread to make a colourful board your guests will love. 

Roast veggies board: Combine your top roast vegetable picks for a platter board that everyone can enjoy this holiday season. 

Let your guest’s imaginations run wild with more choices such as an All-American board, a dessert board, or even a cocktail board. Find finds in Dubai to invite to any event you throw over on our ASKWHO lifestyle group. 

Celebrating with friends and family

As Thanksgiving is all about coming together, we appreciate that all you really want is to celebrate with the ones you love this holiday season. Take the time to video call your family back at home to share what your thanksgiving looks like, or spend the day with people you care about here in Dubai.

Whatever you get up to this holiday season, we hope it’s a good one.🦃

Making friends in Dubai is made simple when you join a group filled with like-minded people near you. Stay social this November by downloading ASKWHO.

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Get Social at a Halloween Event and Meet People in Dubai

We’re confident that you will find your crowd and meet like-minded people by getting social at a Halloween event near you. Here are a few of the best things to do in Dubai at night this Halloween….

  • Immerse yourself in the theme with Halloween-esque beverages and dishes at The Croft as they bring out their most ghostly and spooky décor. 
  • Gather the kids and head down to Weslodge Saloon in City Walk for a ton of Halloween-themed activities. Get the chance to win a prize that the whole family will love.
  • We are hosting a Halloween Costume Brunch at the Claw BBQ ,JBR. Find out more!

Experiencing the thrills of Dubai has never been easier with ASKWHO, find a wide range of events that you don’t want to miss this October.

Events in Dubai this Halloween: How to make it a night to remember

What’s not to love about the Halloween season? Whether you’re a scary movie fanatic, a complete thrill seeker or you’re looking to plan the ultimate end-of-October dinner party – we’re here to give you the best ways to celebrate Halloween in Dubai. 

We want to share with you some of the best events and activities that you can get involved with this year, let’s take a look at some of our favourites… 

It’s time for a horror film night 

Between the classics and new releases, everyone has that one scary movie that they can’t forget. Here is our top selection of the most frightful horror films from the past 5 decades:

  • NopeJordan Peele (2022) 
  • Hereditary – Ari Aster (2018) 
  • 28 Days Later – Danny Boyle (2002)
  • The Silence of the Lambs – Jonathan Demme (1991)
  • The Shining – Stanley Kubrick (1980)

Find friends in Dubai who are fellow cinema fanatics and connect over the best of film on the ASKWHO film TV/Movies interest tag.

A dinner party to remember 

Do you want to put on an evening your guests won’t forget?

Here are some stand-out dark dishes that will impress all-

Squid Ink Pasta: Dark and ever-so-slightly creepy, with a grown-up saline edge of bitterness

Get the recipe: Seafood Squid Ink Pasta with Goji Pangritata

Roasted Black Radish & Grape Quinoa: Brooklyn Supper is making it simple with this roasted combination. It’s perfect to complement any Halloween meal!

Get the recipe: Roasted Black Radish and Grape Quinoa 

Black Licorice Ice Cream: This simple dessert by Matt O’Connor of The Icecreamists is easy to make in advance and is the spookiest of them all!

Get the recipe: Black Ice Licorice Ice Cream 

Want to invite more people? You can share activities to do in Dubai with fellow foodies by joining ASKWHO food group now.

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The Best Places to Go in Dubai with Friends This World Food Day

Here in Dubai, we’re lucky to have access to some beautiful, nutritious food. To help you (and your friends) make the most of it, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s top eateries that you need to check out. Planning to go solo? Exploring your city through food is a great way to meet people in Dubai. So, how will you celebrate World Food Day?

1762

This gourmet deli has you covered for every meal, but all-day breakfast options are really where it’s at – the zaatar Turkish eggs and saffron shakshuka are our picks. 

The team there works hard to push for organic and free-range ingredients in their recipes. Plus, paleo, wheat-free and vegan options are available, so anyone with dietary restrictions doesn’t have to miss out. 

Stay for a quick meal or chill out for a few hours, and don’t forget to share your pictures with the brunch tag afterwards. 

RAW

The RAW Coffee Company prioritise keeping their business ethical. They work closely with their farmers to ensure they’re treated fairly, and the result is a range of coffee which not only tastes great but does a bit of good for the planet. 

If you want to find friends in Dubai to go along with, the ASKWHO coffee club frequents RAW. Explore the tag in the app and see who’s up for grabbing a cup.

Aseelah

As far as cultural things to do in Dubai go, authentic Emirati food is a pretty tasty option. Combining traditional dishes with an upscale vibe, Aseelah has something for everyone. 

Get some inspiration from the culture tag in the app to plan an enriching day out. Then, stop by for the dinner buffet and sample some impressive eats from the Middle East and beyond.

Lowe

Award-winning Lowe is about as sustainable as it gets. Fire-cooked food made with a nose-to-tail ethos, in a gorgeously decorated restaurant? Check, check, and check. 

If you’re big on being eco-friendly, it’s also the perfect place to meet people in Dubai who are also looking out for the environment. Keep an eye out for their next Waste NOT series, where the entire menu is made from would-be food scraps.

Not to your taste?

Our community is always on the lookout for new recommendations – and food spots are no exception. Whether you know any great hidden restaurants or have some must-attend foodie events in Dubai to share, we’d love to know. 

Head over to the foodie group in the ASKWHO app and tell us all about them. You’ll find lots of super advice there from other users, too.

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Belong’s Best Autumn Events in Dubai; What to do in the City This Season

Summer’s drawing to a close in Dubai, and that means three things: back to school, back to work, and goodbye to some of that intense heat. At ASKWHO, we’ve rounded up a collection of the best activities for the autumn months. Let’s take a look…

Visit the farm

Swap the mud and hay for the lush backdrop surrounding The Farm, Al Barari. Their world-flavor inspired menu and gorgeous location offer a unique dining experience away from the cityscape and desert. They also offer takeaways and delivery, for those busy days when you just can’t get away from home. Make sure you share your plate with the foodies group.

Grab your bike

If you’re planning ahead for things to do in Dubai in October, add cycling to your list. The weather will be reaching perfect conditions to enjoy a few hours out. You could head to the off-road track at Mushrif National Park, or some of the red and black trails at Hatta if you’re feeling more adventurous. Don’t want to brave it on your own? See if anyone in the cycling tag wants to take on the challenge. 

Meet people in Dubai

Making friends as an adult is notoriously tricky. Luckily, there are tons of interesting people to connect with here – it’s just a matter of locating them. Our Events tab in the app is the perfect way to find friends in Dubai. We host regular get-togethers for all kinds of activities. Whether you’re into yoga, hiking or brunch, ASKWHO is a great place to reach out and start building up your network.

Gain some cultural insight

As far as indoor activities in Dubai go, exploring the museums around the city is a fantastic way to learn about Dubai’s history and escape some of the lingering warmth. If you’ve got no idea where to begin with cultural spots, join the ASKWHO arts group. They’re sure to have some pointers for where to go. For a more interactive experience, the Museum of Illusions is the ideal place to get a few fun photo ops. They’ve got cool exhibits ranging from transforming holograms to a mind-bending anti-gravity room. It’s definitely enough to keep kids and adults entertained for an afternoon.

Reach out

Whatever you’re interested in, there’s a group to connect with on ASKWHO. If none of our seasonal suggestions quite hit the mark, check out the group pages for events in Dubai that suit you. Download ASKWHO and plan your autumn adventures with the community today.

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Celebrating American Culture in Dubai

The Fourth of July has just passed, and you might be suffering from some post-celebration red white and blues. Luckily, appreciating American culture doesn’t have to be restricted to just one day. If you want to keep the USA party going, read on…

Foodie’s paradise

The best way to spend a day in classic American style is, of course, with great food. No need to settle on just one meal to go all-out for – Dubai boasts tons of great brunch options. 

STK Steakhouse is home to the multi award-winning Dare to Brunch. Half party, half all-star meals, for half the price.

Celebrating the States doesn’t mean the rest of the world’s off the table. Head to KOYO on Saturday for dinner and a show – their Kabuki Double Brunch is a great spot to socialize, Tokyo-style. Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person; with shows running from 1pm and 8pm, it’s an all day affair. 
If you’d prefer to turn up the volume, Lock Stock & Barrel’s your spot. Bottomless drinks and a fully-loaded menu, set to the tune of live rock. Plus, Mondays mean unlimited hot sauce-covered wings. Getting messy never felt so good.

Stars and stripes

Hit up one of the many galleries in Dubai for a splash of shape and color. The Lawrie Shabibi currently has an exhibit from Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim. Embryonic Coat offers a bright exploration of memory, both experiential and DNA-based. Don’t forget, you can always head over to the ASKWHO app and see which amazing art spaces the community thinks you should visit.

Go big or go home

For a full-throttle homage, get a bucket-list adventure under your belt. Even better, get two checked off. Remember how you’re always saying you want to meet new people? Reach out in the water sports tag on ASKWHO and book a flyboard session together. You’ll make new friends and great memories hovering above the water – pretty unique as far as first hangouts go.

Keep your animals safe

For pet-owners, all-American style celebrations can be a bit stressful. Loud noises don’t always mix well with animals, and none of us like seeing them in distress. If you’re attending a fireworks display or if one is happening near you, consider checking your pet into a daycare with BOOKMYPET.COM. You don’t have to worry about being out all day, and the noise won’t leave your furry friends upset. ASKWHO users also get 35 AED off with the code ‘askwho’.

Share your ideas

Any States-inspired events you’re planning that we’ve missed? Let the community know what you’re getting up to, and any spots you recommend, over on the app. Want even more inspiration? Explore your interest groups on ASKWHO for some friendly, local advice.

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Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day 2022 in Dubai

This year in the UK Father’s Day is on June 19th. This is pretty lucky for British people living in Dubai because in the UAE Father’s Day is celebrated on June 21st. With these dates being so close together, there is lots to do to make your Dad super happy this year. So, whether your family is far or near this Father’s Day, we have you covered with these amazing ideas…

For the adventurers

If you’re with your Dad in Dubai, why not head for a surf? Whether you’re looking to rent a board or could do with a lesson, Surf House Dubai has got you covered. Make sure to let the ASKWHO community know if this is the next hot surf spot.

For the art lovers

Ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and street art, ProArt Gallery is the perfect cultural visit if your Dad loves art. You can see the astounding works from the likes of Dali and Picasso along with some talented new artists that are not to be missed. As one of the leading dealers in modern and contemporary art with the museums as well as the private clients worldwide, this is a must-see for all art lovers in Dubai. Remember to let the ASKWHO art group know what you thought of this gallery too! If your Dad isn’t visiting this Father’s Day check out SINGULART. They work with contemporary creators to bring beautiful artwork to your home (and even ship globally).

For the foodies

You can’t beat going out for a meal on Father’s Day. Looking for somewhere in Dubai? The Crossing is an amazing Indian restaurant and ASKWHO members will receive a complimentary drink and 20% off the total bill. All you have to do is mention ASKWHO when you book and show your profile on arrival. If you’re not with your Dad this Father’s Day, a voucher for their favorite restaurant is also a great idea. 

For the sports enthusiasts

Grab your bike and head for a ride this Father’s Day. For this we recommend Mushrif National Park. With a track all the way around the park, this is the perfect getaway from the city. It’s a good idea to cycle early morning or in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Share your ideas

The ASKWHO community would love to know what you’re getting up to this Father’s Day. Make sure to head over to the app to share your top recommendations. Still looking for new places to visit? Check out the ASKWHO groups that match your interests for some amazing inspiration from the locals.

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