How to Make Friends in Qatar | ExpatWoman.com
 

How to Make Friends in Qatar

At EW we have provided some advice about how to create a social circle for yourself and your family.

Posted on

22 July 2013

Last updated on 14 June 2017
How to Make Friends in Qatar

We quite often have threads on our forum talking about how hard it is to make friends in Qatar… here we have some top tips on how to find yourself a social circle.

Social Groups

There is a social group for near on everything in Qatar and meeting people with similar hobbies and interests is a great way to make new friends. There is everything available from country groups to sporting teams and everything in between. Be brave and go along- if you don’t like it you can always leave! Better to have tried than to have stayed at home being lonely.


Check out our big list of clubs and societies here>>
Find out more about Sports In Qatar>>

Charity Work & Volunteering

There are some very worthwhile causes in the Gulf that could need a helping hand from you. You can volunteer your time and expertise helping a cause that is near and dear to you. There’s everything from general volunteering opportunities through to specific causes including the local animal shelters and helping kids with special needs and so much more.

Find out more about local charities and support groups here>>

Community Events

Lots of the different living areas in Qatar have get togethers whether it is family fun days or craft fairs. Keep your eye on the notice boards in your local supermarkets- there are quite often flyers posted there with things going on for you to join in with. We list the majority of events on our events page here>>


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Be Open

We often hear stories of people making firm friends in the most unlikely of situations! It could be by the garbage chute when you’re in your pyjamas! Doha can seem like an unfriendly place sometimes but maybe by you smiling or saying a cheery hello you may brighten up someone else’s day and strike up a conversation.

So many people have made friends in the supermarket, coffee shop or at the school gates just from smiling. It often appears people in Doha are in the own little bubble but maybe they are feeling just as lonely as you and are putting a brave front on it.

Don't Worry!

If you are feeling a bit out of sorts don't worry! It's completely normal feeling to have as an expat. You've been removed from everything that is familiar to you- country, family and friends so you are going to feel a bit wobbly! It's perfectly natural. Most of us have had friendships in the past that have evolved over long periods of time from school, university, our home town and work and now you have to start all over again whether you're single or in a family situation. To keep you connected make sure you are keeping in touch with your loved ones at home- Skype is such a great way to see the people you miss. If you are feeling home sick don't beat yourself up about it- have a little wallow, then pull your socks up and try something new!


EW's Top 10 Tips


1. Swap numbers- so many people meet someone that could have been best friends but didn't swap numbers!
2. You take the lead- sometimes people are just waiting for someone else to make the first move- so you take the plunge and organise something be it a simple supper or a shopping trip.
3. Say "Yes!" to invites- it might not be something you would usually go to but you just never know- you may enjoy it and meet new people- you can always make an excuse and leave if you don't like!
4. Google is your friend- if you're into something get googling- there's bound to be a group for it in Qatar!
5. If you are naturally shy plan some conversation starters before you go to somewhere new so you don't get lost for words.
6. Join in, sign up- find a group or club related to something you are into and make sure you go!
7. Come to one of our coffee mornings- they are such a fabulous spring board into social life!
8. Smile- you never know how you might cheer someone's day up!
9. Don't be afraid to admit you are lonely- most people are here are without friends and family- you are not alone in feeling like that.
10. Don't get disheartened if you get knocked back- those people weren't meant to be your friends- ever onwards!