Category: The Blog

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Find your people. Discover your city. Get to know Belong

Our beginnings 

By moving from London to Dubai, co-founders Matt and Mike experienced how hard it can be to make a ‘home away from home’ and find new friends with similar interests. From this, the idea of ASKWHO was born. 

Both Mike and Matt wanted to connect people who were able to relate, support and motivate each other through shared experiences. After successfully surpassing 200k users in Dubai, the mission to take ASKWHO worldwide has only just begun. With our recent San Francisco launch, let’s dive into what makes ASKWHO so special…

Find your people

From discovering hidden gems in your city’s restaurant scene to exciting local experiences and events – ASKWHO helps users get out of their comfort zones and explore everything going on in their area. Where you can…

  • Join groups based on your interests
  • Attend city-wide events
  • Stay up to date with the latest news and hot spots in your city
  • Connect with like-minded people
  • Have good times with amazing people

A note from our co-founder…

“We’re thrilled to be expanding ASKWHO to San Francisco and know that this is only just the beginning of launching our app worldwide. For all of our new users to come I hope you enjoy making friendships that last a lifetime and experiencing the thrills that life has to offer with incredible people by your side!“ – Mike Askew, Co-Founder 

Do more together 

Once you’ve found a niche that aligns with your interests, the real fun begins. Not only do our groups provide an outlet for users to meet new people, but it also encourages them to take part in activities together which helps build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. Within our platform, you can also tap into niche interest tags such as theatre, coffee clubs, pets and nutrition – allowing you to connect and share directly with those who are most interested. 

An event for everyday

Meeting new people can be difficult, especially when you have recently relocated. Our events page allows you to see what’s coming up near you. You never know what you could be getting up to each week. Between paragliding to a weekend festival experience, the possibilities are endless. Plus we have our exclusive ASKWHO community events hosted by us throughout the year, such as boat parties, group camping trips and festive dinners.

Try it for yourself 

At ASKWHO, we believe you get the most out of life through real connections and exploration. This is why we strive to make it easier than ever before for our users to do just that. If you’re ready for a more fulfilling life filled with meaningful experiences – try out ASKWHO today.

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Super Bowl LVII parties: How to celebrate it right in San Francisco

Football fans, get ready to hit the Bay Area – Super Bowl LVII is coming to town! The Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in sports, and it’s only getting bigger. Here’s how to make it a game to remember…

The Build Up

As with any big sports event, there are plenty of events leading up to game day from tailgates and viewing parties at local bars to post-game celebrations. But nothing makes game day better than putting on a party with some friends. Here’s how to get pumped up for your pre-party…

Decorations – Go all out and set the mood with football-themed garland, balloons and centerpieces. Don’t forget to include cutouts of the players too – it’ll make for great photo ops to share with the ASKWHO sports community. 

Potluck Playlist – Every good party needs a playlist filled with music that will have everyone dancing throughout the night. Why not make a potluck playlist where your guests add a few tracks each? Make sure you include a few classic Niners songs as well so everyone can sing along. 

Get creative – Make your party stand out with a betting pool for the game or costume competition with prizes. Have everyone dress up in their favorite team’s colors or opt for a theme like ‘Dress as your favorite halftime act’. Don’t forget to stock up on plenty of beer!

The Halftime Show 

Keep everyone in the spirit of the game by watching the iconic halftime show together. Rihanna will be taking the stage this year in what promises to be an unforgettable performance. Everyone loves snacks during games so make things easy on yourself by preparing some simple finger foods like chips and dip or pre-made sliders that can be heated up quickly. If you want to add a dessert element you could go for cupcakes frosted with team colors or football-shaped sugar cookies. Make sure to share pics of your spread with the foodies group. 

The After Party

It doesn’t end when the clock runs out—your after party should be just as much fun as your pre-party… 

  • If you’re looking for a place to binge on some delicious food after the big game, head over to SOMA StrEat Food Park. This foodie haven is offering up an all-night tailgate party with all your favorite game-day classics like wings, nachos, burgers, and more. Arrive early for free entry. 
  • If karaoke is more your style then head out on a bar crawl around San Francisco afterwards – grab drinks at the best spots while singing along to your favorite hits.
  • Connect with the ASKWHO sports group and find fellow football lovers parties to join. This is the perfect opportunity to keep the night going while making some memories with new friends. 

So gather your friends, fire up that grill, pour yourself a cold one (or two), and get ready for one amazing night of football fun. If you don’t have anyone to gather with for this big event just reach out to the ASKWHO community and find a new group to watch the game with and make friends with fellow sports fans.

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Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day with belong

The world can always use a little more kindness, and there’s no better time to show it than Random Acts of Kindness Day. It’s a great opportunity to do something selfless and contribute something positive to your community. Here are some ideas on how you can get involved…

Getting charitable  

From street clean-ups to food drives, there are plenty of opportunities to give back in your local area…

– If you don’t have the time or energy to volunteer, donating is another great way to give back. Whether it’s clothes, toys, books, or even cash donations – whatever you can give goes a long way. 

– Want to do something big for your local area? Why not host your very own charity event such as a fundraiser, sponsored run or even a cooking event? Don’t forget to share your event on the ASKWHO community group to get those RSVP numbers up. 

– Show kindness online by sending cards and messages of support to people who need it most. Social media is full of people who could use a kind word or two – so why not take this opportunity to spread positivity? Just one message can make all the difference. 

Organizations to get involved with 

If you want to make a longer-term commitment, why not check out some of the amazing organizations working hard to make life better? You could join an organization like Food Bank or Helping Hands that provide essential food and supplies to those in need; or volunteer with an animal rescue group like Friends of Animals.

Remember to be kind

Being kind to your existing community of friends and people is essential to maintaining healthy relationships and building new connections. It’s important to listen to what others have to say, offer help when needed, and show your support.If you’re looking for like-minded people who want to get involved this Random Acts Of Kindness Day, just share your message on ASKWHO.

Join forces with those in your community to organise charitable events together. It’s time to find friends who also want to make a difference in their community – let’s make it happen.

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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!

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The January Agenda with belong; Building Healthy Habits in 2023

The New Year is here and it’s a great time to start fresh. One of the best ways to begin the year is by developing healthy habits. Let’s take a look at some top tips for starting your wellness journey with ASKWHO…

Staying motivated together 

It can be hard to stick with your goals if you don’t have someone who is rooting for you. Therefore, one of the best ways to ensure that you maintain your goals is by getting support from others. Whether you’re looking for a wellbeing class or fitness events in Dubai, there is something for everyone on our ASKWHO groups. Plus, you can connect with like-minded individuals who will help keep you motivated and inspired to reach your goals.

Plans to get excited about

There are many amazing things happening in Dubai that you can get involved in. Planning something exciting can be a great way to motivate yourself and meet people in Dubai. Here are just a few suggestions…

  • Experience a taste of the open water for an afternoon paddle-boarding session at Kite N Surf. With a variety of activities to choose from, this crew of watersports enthusiasts will be sure to provide you with lasting memories and even a brand-new hobby. Find fellow adventure seekers on the ASKWHO outdoor group to invite along.
  • Relax and reconnect at a sunrise yoga class from some of the most unique locations in Dubai. Between Sole Mio’s Kite Beach, The Lost Chambers Aquarium and Aura Sky Pool, you’ll have the opportunity to start your day at whatever location suits you. Remember to share your experience with the ASKWHO wellness group to connect with fellow yogis.
  • Find motivational things to do in Dubai in the morning such as a fitness program like Project DXB or a community running club on the ASKWHO fitness group. 

Stretch your limits

When it comes to working on being healthier, it is important to consider your mental wellbeing. Meditation is a practice that helps us relax, reduce stress, and gain greater insight into our lives. It is about taking regular breaks from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to slow down, quiet the mind, and reconnect with ourselves. Find like-minded people to work on self-exploration with this year in the wellness group. 

Back to exploring 

Travelling is an excellent way to challenge yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually while also broadening your horizons. When you travel abroad, or even just within your own country, you push yourself out of your comfort zone by exposing yourself to unfamiliar environments. This allows us to appreciate ways of life outside of our own immediate experience and lets us explore new worldviews. Connect with our travel group on ASKWHO to find the exploring motivation you need this year. Developing healthy habits doesn’t have to be difficult – all it takes is finding the right resources. At ASKWHO, you can find a range of meetups, lifestyle classes and community groups. Plus you can find friends in Dubai and start taking steps towards healthier living together this year.

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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.