Fighting Expat Isolation Together
When Elaine Bayona's mother left Abu Dhabi, the city suddenly felt very quiet. Her father and sister had already returned to the Philippines and Canada. "I was just like, I don't want to be alone," Elaine said. That lonely feeling eventually became @InvitesInAbuDhabi, an incredibly popular Instagram-based community. The group brings women together for pickleball, makeup sessions, and fitness walks. It now boasts its own dedicated mobile app with 47 scheduled events listed. Elaine, 31, has lived in Al Rawdah in the capital since 2019. She knows how hard it is for expats to build a social circle abroad.
A Simple Idea Gains Momentum
She started visiting cafes and restaurants and reviewing them on social media. She began messaging other Abu Dhabi creators on Instagram to collaborate on content. Soon, she was part of a thriving network of local digital creators. She wanted to expand that feeling of community to other women in the city. In June, Elaine posted on Threads inviting girls to a casual pickleball session. She had absolutely no idea whether anyone would actually respond to the invite. Fifteen women showed up, and she had met none of them before. "It is so fun to get to know other people," she said excitedly.
Moving From WhatsApp To An App
The community grew rapidly, and the logistics soon became an absolute nightmare. The group lived in a WhatsApp chat that quickly filled with spam messages. Elaine built a simple app with the help of an AI coding tool. Members can sign up for events and hosts can track attendees easily. The community still runs dedicated WhatsApp groups organised by specific interests like fitness. Elaine does not see her community as competing with other local groups. She simply wants to support women and make the city feel smaller. "Just create an invite. Don't be shy," she advises lonely expats. Learn how ambitious professionals are building successful lives in the Emirates. Discover more inspiring community stories at The WAU.
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