Categories
The Blog

5 Things to Do in Dubai This Summer

It’s starting to heat up in Dubai and we’re so excited for summer. Looking for some new experiences to try? As always, we’ve got you covered with what’s hot near you. So whether you want to soak up the sun or avoid the heat, here’s what you can get up to in Dubai this summer.

Chillout Ice Lounge

Leave the 40°C outside and cool things down with a trip to the Chillout Ice Lounge. As the first ice lounge in the Middle East, take a look at amazing sculptures, unique ice seating and beautiful lighting. You could even ask your fellow ASKWHO foodies to come along because this ice lounge is the first of its kind to serve hot food and beverages. Buy your tickets now.

Scuba Diving 

Whether you’re eager to learn or already have some experience, SeaBreacher has amazing scuba activities for you. From night dives to fun dives, this is a great way to cool down in the Dubai heat. Looking for someone to go diving with? Reach out to the ASKWHO outdoors group to find people who would love to explore the amazing Arabian Sea with you. Learn more

Alserkal Avenue

With new and exciting exhibitions, Alserkal Avenue is one of the regions leading platforms for contemporary art. This summer, make sure to check out The Swimming Pool Exhibition to see a range of amazing art from artists around the world. The exhibition focuses on the dialogue between the different practices and materials used by each artist. The works are linked by the common theme of “the pool” as we see how this influences the pieces. Find a fellow art lover to experience this amazing gallery with on the ASKWHO art group. Explore more.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Ready to explore a fascinating aquatic world? Say hello to sharks, otters and even crocs at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Make sure to share what you get up to with ASKWHO… top tip; the Aquarium Tunnel definitely needs to be checked out. Plan your trip.

Sunrise SUP Yoga 

Experience the beautiful sunrise in a unique setting and get your body moving with SUP yoga. Calm your mind and strengthen your body before the heat hits with this amazing yoga practice. Connect with fellow yogis on the ASKWHO wellness group and find a yoga buddy to share this experience with. Check it out.

Meet up with ASKWHO

Still looking for more things you can get up to this summer? Make sure to join the ASKWHO meet up group to find like-minded people in Dubai. With regular events and activities with the ASKWHO community, get ready for your social calendar to get a lot more busy.

Download now

Categories
The Blog

The belong Guide; What’s Happening in May in Dubai

After spending Eid Al-Fitr with friends and family in April, May can seem pretty quiet. If you want to get out and about then ASKWHO has got you covered. Let’s take a look at what’s on… 

Light up the sky

Firework displays are a great way to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr and Dubai has some of the best displays in the world. 

One of our favourite displays is at the Global Village where they have firework shows every Friday and Saturday night. During Eid Al-Fitr you will be able to see the incredible show every night until May the 7th. If you’re looking to enjoy the fireworks with a friend head to the ASKWHO groups plus the fireworks start at 9 pm so you have time to explore the village beforehand. 

Fancy a laugh?

If you’re up for some entertainment then Dubai Comedy Show is the place to be. This 11-day long festival promises top-quality comedy and some variety shows all over Dubai. Plus The Comedy Factory will be hosting comedians such as ​​Aurie Styla, Ger Saunton and Ali Sultan. You can check out the lineup and buy tickets here

The festivals for foodies

Get ready to taste some of the most amazing food Dubai has to offer. Fine dining experiences, gourmet meals and watching world-class chefs are only some of the things you can get up to during the Dubai Food Festival. On until the 15th of May get your tickets here. If you do go make sure to head to the ASKWHO foodie group and leave your recommendations for fellow food lovers.   

Fun for the whole gang

Group activities are a great way to meet new people, here are some activities that we recommend… 

Ekart Zabeel is an open-air kart track located on top of the Dubai Mall Zabeel. Find your need for speed in the high-end electric karts and enjoy the views of the Dubai skyline. 

The Dubai Aquarium This underwater zoo holds 100s of species, you can find yourself cage-snorkelling, hanging out with otters or even swimming with sharks. 

The Brass Monkey on Blue Waters Island is a great place to challenge your friends to a round of air hockey or Pac man. 2 storeys of entertainment from a bowling alley to arcade games.  

Find your group
There’s plenty to do over this month, all you need now is people to enjoy these amazing events with. Why not head to ASKWHO where there’s a group of like-minded individuals just waiting to meet you?

Download Now

Categories
The Blog

Art and food lovers meet up – belong just got better!

For ASKWHO members we are offering you and a friend the opportunity to attend a FREE exclusive gallery event hosted by amazing artists, in the heart of Dubai near the Burj Al Arab on the 11th of May. 

Food and refreshments will be provided FREE of cost. We only have limited space for 150 people – Please fill out the below form with your details and submit it. This is first come first serve, so make sure you fill out your form as soon as possible. 

– Date: 11th of May

– Dress code: Smart / Casual

– Time: 6pm – 9pm

– Location: click here!

– Parking is limited so getting to the venue by taxi is better.

This is a great opportunity to meet new people and get to know others like you!

There will be amazing artists who will discuss the designs and visions for their unique pieces of art, in a state of the art brand new facility.

Don’t miss out on this! 35% of the spots are already taken. 

Sign Up

Categories
The Blog

The Dubai Social App You NEED; Getting Started with belong

We’re ASKWHO. It doesn’t mean much to you now but it soon will. We’re on our way to shake up the Dubai social scene. We will help you make real connections, discover your interests and make this place your home. Here’s everything you need to know.

The Facts.

Today, we’re more “connected” than ever. So why do 71% of active social media users feel lonely? This is significantly higher than the people who don’t use social media at all. It gets worse because this number is rapidly rising. So this isn’t just a problem, it’s an epidemic. 

Having hundreds or even thousands of followers on social media is just a facade of popularity. The realisation that you may not have a real connection with these people can negatively affect our mental wellbeing. So it’s time for change – and we’re starting with Dubai.

The total expat population in UAE in 2021 is 8.84 million, which is approx. 89% of the population. But, people only stay on average for 2-3 years. That does NOT make it easy to make friends.

You might live in an apartment block where no one speaks your language. You might work remotely and have no access to an in-person office. Whatever your situation – we want to make it easier for you to find your tribe.

Our Mission.

Forget followers, find friends. We are done with toxic, lonely social media that actually disconnects us. We want more, and you deserve more. We want to give you an empowering, supportive and inclusive platform – and you can help us make it happen.

With ASKWHO, make true connections that last a day, a night, or a lifetime. Find new friends who are passionate about the same interests as you. Ask people who care about your burning questions and get to know Dubai like you’ve lived here your whole life.

Let’s transform your social life – together.

For You. 

At the heart of our mission is you. We keep talking about making real connections – but how? Getting started couldn’t be easier. Just create your profile and off you go. 

ASKWHO has specific groups tailored to your interests. Join as many as you like and talk to like-minded people who may also be living in a new place and discover the city together. Follow different niche topics and get ready to take virtual connections into the real world. 

Share, ask, recommend – whatever you’re into, get involved, discover and explore. Are you buzzing? You should be. Ask questions about Dubai, life, relationships, and everything in between. Get answers from experienced locals, complete newbies, and from people you never thought you’d speak to.

If you’re on a solo walk or coffee break, use the app to find others and get to know someone new. Share your amazing Dubai experiences and get inspired by what people like you are up to. 

No more loneliness, no more fake friends. Are you ready for your social life to get a lot more hectic?

Download Now

Categories
The Blog The Business Blog

Community Matters; The Value of belong in Dubai

We’re here to bring a new social hub to Dubai. Why? Because community is the core of civilization. But finding like-minded people in a new place can be difficult. That’s the problem co-founder Mike Askew faced. Hear about his experience and how ASKWHO is bringing a new community to Dubai.

The Background

Moving from London to Riyadh and then to Dubai, my co-founder Matthew and I both experienced how hard it can be to make a ‘home away from home’ and find new friends with similar interests. From this, the idea for ASKWHO was born. We both strongly believe that nobody should feel isolated, struggle to make friends or experience a sense of inadequacy because of the unrealistic spectacles they see on social media.

The Importance

Extensive research has proven the importance of community for our physical and mental wellbeing. In fact, “People who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier and live longer, with fewer mental health problems than people who are less well connected.”

But when you move to a new place, you are no longer physically connected to your friends and family so the emphasis becomes solely on community. Therefore, community becomes one of the main pillars of our social life that takes care of our happiness, physical well-being and mental health. It became apparent that we needed to provide this community for expats living in Dubai.

The Solution

With this in mind, we developed a dedicated group app focused purely on your city, we have complex algorithms within the app that help match like-minded people. We’ve set the groups ourselves so they’re easy to join and cover over 150 topics ranging from Fitness, Foodies, Lifestyle, Knowledge and Outdoors.

We provide a supportive space for people to share advice, and recommendations, find out what’s happening, arrange meet-ups and do more together in real life. We can’t wait to continue on this journey and bring a safe community to more people.

Categories
The Blog

The belong Guide To What To Do In Dubai on St. Patrick’s Day 2022

Whether you have Irish roots or are just looking for a good excuse to get out and socialise, make sure that you have your St. Patrick’s Day plans sorted. As always, ASKWHO has you covered. Check out these events in Dubai to celebrate the big day. 

The Irish Village

March 17th-18th | Dubai Studio City

Making you feel at home wherever you come from, The Irish Village is waiting to welcome you with open arms. Set in beautiful gardens with a stunning lake and river, relax and take a moment away from the city. With delicious food, flowing drinks and live music the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are guaranteed to be a good time. Need someone to go with? Post in the ASKWHO meet-up group to see if anyone is free. Find out more information here

Fibber Magee’s

March 13th-20th | Saeed Tower, Trade Centre

Known as “Dubai’s best kept secret”, this iconic pub makes you feel like you’re in an Irish local. They aren’t letting us down with the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations either. With a full week of live performances, there are no reservations and it’s free entry. Head over and enjoy homely food, amazing drinks and the best Guinness in town. Share your food finds on the ASKWHO foodie group, we can’t wait to see your recommendations. Check it out.  

McGettigan’s

March 17th | Cluster J, Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Known for throwing some of the best parties around, this is where you want to be this St. Patrick’s Day. With 3 pints included, get ready for great drinks, great music and great company. Remember to share what you get up to with your friends on ASKWHO. Book your tickets now.

McCafferty’s Trad Brunch

March 19th | Circle Mall, Jumeirah Village Ready for some tasty food, drinks and performances from Irish dancers? McCafferty’s is here to bring you the best weekend of the year. We’ve taken a look at the St. Patrick’s Day menu and the traditional pub grub is making our mouths water. Reach out to the ASKWHO foodies group to see if anyone else wants to join you. Check it out for yourself and book your tickets here.

Ronan Keating Live 

March 18th | Coca-Cola Arena 

We’ve already been talking about this big event in the ASKWHO arts group, it’s time for you to join the conversation. No one should go and see this Irish legend alone on St. Patrick’s Day weekend. See who else is going and book your tickets now

Get Connected 

Whether you’re attending an event, hosting a party or having a chilled one at home, we can’t wait to see what you get up to this St. Patrick’s Day. Make sure to share your experiences with like-minded people and recommend your favorite places. So, where will it be?

Download now

Categories
The Blog

The belong Guide to Expo 2020; What Not To Miss in the Last Month of Expo

The biggest annual event in Dubai is coming to an end. In the last month of Expo 2020, make sure you check out all the must-see events. But where to start? As always ASKWHO has got you covered. Check out our round-up of everything you need to see, based on your interests, before the end of Expo 2020.

For the foodies 

Enjoy a world of food where taste knows no borders. Innovation, sustainability and technology meet to change the way we cook, experience and enjoy food. Head on over to the Sustainability Hub to discover plant-based cuisine like no other. Or check out a futuristic culinary experience and have lunch with robots in the Talabat Kitchen. Wherever you eat, make sure to share with fellow food lovers in the ASKWHO foodie group. We can’t wait to see what you discover. 

Are the arts your thing?

With artistic creations, workshops and performances, Expo 2020 has endless contemporary creativity for you to explore. We love the Jamaica Pavilion which uses shipping containers from across the world to showcase the sights, sounds and tastes of Jamaica. Find someone to experience Jamaica with you by connecting with like-minded people in the ASKWHO arts group.

Photo Source – https://www.expo2020dubai.com

Unleash your inner techie

Discover life-changing innovations and experience a truly connected high-tech world at Expo 2020. We’re loving artificial intelligence in the Opportunity District. Add your voice to the continuously changing collective message generated by visitors’ contributions. Found something else cool? Make sure to share it with like-minded people in the ASKWHO technology group.

Ready to get active?

Sports fanatics – make sure to get yourself to the Sports, Fitness & Wellbeing Hub at Expo 2020. The 5400 square meter space with a wide spectrum of sports and fitness sessions is something you need to check out. We’ve been loving the bicycle tours that take you all around the world in just 1 hour. This is a great opportunity to ride across 191 country pavilions and learn more about the biggest Expo event in history. Want someone to cycle with? Connect with the ASKWHO sports group and share your experience with a great community. 

Photo Source – https://www.expo2020dubai.com

That’s not all…

From theme weeks to business to architecture, there’s so much more for you to discover at Expo 2020. Book your tickets now to make sure you don’t miss out on Dubai’s biggest event of the year. Whatever you get up to, we can’t wait to see. Make sure to share your experiences with the amazing ASKWHO community and connect with people with the same interests as you. Why not check in with our popular meet-up group and find like-minded people to experience Expo 2020 with? The time is now, let’s connect with ASKWHO.

Download ASKWHO

Categories
The Blog

Dubai 2022; Events Happening this Year that You Don’t Want to Miss

A New Year brings with it a new opportunity to discover Dubai like never before. ASKWHO is on a mission to help you experience new things and we couldn’t be more excited. That’s why we’re giving you the ultimate guide to events in Dubai this year. What will you discover?

See the icons 

End January with an evening at the Dubai Blues Festival. Choose from the world’s most popular artists over three nights starting on January 27th. Enjoy your night under the stars with live music and delicious food in this beautiful venue. Find out more. 

Need some last-minute company? Why not see which fellow music lovers can join you in the lifestyle group on ASKWHO? 

Find your glory

Is 2022 the year you take part in the ultimate fitness challenge? Iron Man is back in Dubai on March 5th so why not check it out. You could even get involved by heading down to support the amazing athletes, it’ll be a great atmosphere. 

Looking for something a little less intense? On February 5th, feel the burn by taking part in the M1 run. The annual M1Run combines a 1.2km incline run followed by over 700 steps in the staircase from the 7th to the 42nd floor of Media One Hotel & Tower. Enter now and see if anyone is up for joining you on the ASKWHO fitness group

Join a new cause

The third edition of the annual charity walkathon ‘We Walk’ is coming up on February 18th. Supporting the UAE Rare Disease Society, this is a great way to take care of your wellness while raising money for a great cause. Get involved.  

Wanting to up the pace? The 8th edition of Run with Heroes is kicking off on February 5th. Pick your distance and sign up now. 

Remember to post about your achievements in the fitness group on ASKWHO – our supportive community will want to know all about it. 

Be amazed 

From London’s West End, The Greatest Show is heading to Dubai on March 6th. Listen to your favourite tracks whilst experiencing astonishing circus acts and choreography. Book your tickets now and remember to leave your review for your fellow theatre enthusiasts on the ASKWHO lifestyle group. 

Culture at your fingertips

Whether you’re expanding your collection or just getting started, experience the region’s largest affordable retail art fair. Coming back for its 8th edition, World Art Dubai brings more than 3,000 works from 150 international galleries and artists. Find out more and invite the ASKWHO art community to join you on March 16th-19th.

Love water sports?

We know lots of you on ASKWHO do. Get chatting on our meet up group and see who fancies joining you to take part in La Mer Open Water Swim on March 19th. Pick your route and get ready for an exciting day. 

Can’t make that date? On April 2nd head to Dubai’s buzzing beachfront destination JBR The Beach for The Beach Swim. Sign up and get your medal.  

Here we go again 

The largest motoring exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa is set to return between November 17th and 18th for its latest edition. Dubai International Motor Show or #NOFILTERDXB is the place to get your fix of motoring for the year. Find out more.

2022 with ASKWHO

It’s set to be a great year and we can’t wait to experience it with you. Discover like-minded people and chat about all the upcoming events on ASKWHO. Are you ready for your best year yet? Let’s do this.

Download ASKWHO

Categories
The Blog

Smash Your New Year’s Resolutions with belong; Your Guide to 2022 in Dubai

Have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet? Whether you’ve got a few top hits on your list or are looking for some inspiration, ASKWHO is here to make achieving your resolutions a little easier. Get ready to smash your goals in 2022 with ASKWHO. Here’s how we can help…

Get Active

Working out is one of the most common resolutions each year. After the Christmas period, it can be difficult to get back in the game. That’s where the ASKWHO community comes in. Head on over to our Fitness group and discover a new workout or gym. Finding something new is a great way to create a routine for 2022 and motivate you to get active. You may even meet your new workout buddy. Working out with a friend makes exercise more enjoyable, social and means you’re held accountable for turning up. Get chatting on ASKWHO now.

Up Your Food Game

Alongside working out, eating healthier is also at the top of the resolution list every year. Finding new recipes or healthy places to eat can be a challenge when most of us stick to what we know. The ASKWHO Foodies group is your go-to place for recipes, food inspiration and restaurants in Dubai. You could even get involved with a healthy eating dinner party. What are you waiting for? Let’s get healthy, together.

Be Mindful 

Setting aside some time in your day to recharge and refocus is a perfect way to begin your year. For some mindfulness inspiration, head on over to our Wellbeing group. You’ll discover yoga practices, meditation tips and motivation for achieving mindfulness. Head on over and connect with like-minded people who are excited to help you on your journey to mindfulness. 

Discover Your City

Dubai is an amazing place and there’s always something going on. Whether you’ve just moved here or you feel like you’ve done everything, there’s always something new to discover in Dubai. Our Meet Up group is the perfect place to connect with people in the city and try something new. We can’t wait to see what you discover. 

Online and offline, a new year is a great opportunity to pay special attention to how you communicate with others. Make sure to lead with kindness and make the world a slightly better place with every interaction. ASKWHO is a supportive, inclusive and kind community that can’t wait to welcome you. 

Be Kind

That’s not all…
Whatever you’re interested in exploring, learning, or chatting about this year, we have a group for you. Connect with like-minded people and make real connections for the year ahead. The time is now. Start 2022 the right way with ASKWHO.

Download ASKWHO.

Categories
The Blog

Top Things to Do in Dubai for Christmas Week

Christmas is almost here! ‘Tis the season of festive parties, hitting the (indoor) slopes, and Christmas markets. Dubai offers a lot at Christmas time, but of course, having fun this season is always better when you’re spending time with friends. So we’ve rounded up the best activities to do that we know yule love.

Here are a few things to put in your calendar this week…

Get that festive feeling
The Christmas market at the ​​Madinat Jumeirah is guaranteed Christmassy feels. The perfect place to meet up with friends, why don’t you head to the massive snowball zone? You might even meet Santa. Grab some last minute Christmas presents, feast on the traditional food, and enjoy the nearby bars.  Learn more

Oh Baby it’s not that cold outside 

With temperatures in Dubai hitting 25℃, why not dig out your jacket and hit the slopes? Head down to the indoor ski centre, Ski Dubai. With real snow and sub minus temperatures, you’re sure to feel Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Not a Skier? There’s plenty to entertain such as meeting the local penguins and enjoying a toboggan ride. Learn more

Desert Safari
If hitting the snow slopes isn’t your thing why not head to the dunes. There are plenty of guides to pick you up in a dune buggy and go dune bashing and sandboarding. See the desert like you’ve never seen it before. Get up close and personal with camels or enjoy a buffet lunch, some much needed shaded respite. Since it’s Christmas, why not really go that extra mile, grab some friends from ASKWHO and enjoy an evening desert safari? You can even camp in luxury, enjoy the stars at night and have some drinks by the fire. Learn more

Away from your family this Christmas?
Christmas doesn’t always have to be a family-orientated day. Even though you may be away from your family this year, take this as an opportunity to have a different and exciting holiday. With ASKWHO, you have the ability to meet and connect with awesome people near you. Dubai has some very festive, exciting events happening this week and with places like this, enjoy them with your new friends. 

You’ve got the friends from ASKWHO, and you’ve got some great days planned, but these events are full of Christmas spirit and not to be missed… 

Boozy Brunch on Christmas eve at MCGETTIGAN’S JLT

Transport yourself to the UK (mentally, of course) with the McGettigan’s Irish bar. Live music, great drinks, and a festive brunch. This is the perfect place to relax and kick back on Christmas Eve. Book now

Dubai Opera – Dates: 21st to 22nd December 2021 (The Sound of Christmas) | 23rd to 5th December 2021 (The Nutcracker)
Fancy a more cultured experience? The Sound of Christmas and The Nutcracker are Christmas classics that are a perfect festive escape from the craziness of parties. Book now

UNIQUE WINTER EXPERIENCE AT ToDA, 23rd December
Enjoy the winter wonderland at the Theatre of Digital Art, the fully immersive Christmas-themed event on the 23rd December is full of magic and holiday spirit. Book now

Ready to find some friends to enjoy the festivities with? Head on over to ASKWHO, see what people from your area are doing, and join the conversation. Let’s make social media social again.

Download now