Living in Dubai as an expat can be exciting, fast-paced, and full of opportunity—but sometimes, it can also feel a little isolating. Between the hustle of city life and the ever-changing nature of friendships in a transient city, it’s easy to crave meaningful connection. That’s where book clubs come in.
For many expats in Dubai, book clubs are more than just a gathering to discuss novels. They’re a lifeline to friendship, thoughtful conversation, and a sense of belonging in a city that never slows down. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or someone rediscovering reading after years away, there’s a place for you in Dubai’s vibrant expat book club scene.
Let’s explore how you can find the right one—and why joining might be the best decision you make all year.
Why Book Clubs Are a Game-Changer for Expats
Moving to a new country comes with a whirlwind of change—new job, new apartment, new weather, and an entirely new social landscape. While Dubai offers endless opportunities to meet people, finding “your people” can take time. A book club creates the perfect setting for authentic connection. You meet others who enjoy thinking deeply, listening, sharing opinions, and growing together through stories.
And because Dubai’s expat community is incredibly diverse, book clubs here often feature a rich mix of cultures, viewpoints, and personal experiences. It’s a rare chance to not only make friends but also expand your perspective with every chapter discussed.
Plus, let’s be honest—sometimes, you just want an excuse to close your laptop, put down your phone, and fall into a good book. A book club helps you commit to that in the most rewarding way.
Types of Book Clubs You’ll Find in Dubai
Dubai’s book club scene is as eclectic as the city itself. Some clubs meet in cozy cafés over lattes and croissants. Others host virtual sessions so members can join from wherever they are in the city—or the world. Some are themed around specific genres like mystery, fantasy, or memoirs. Others are more casual, featuring everything from bestsellers to hidden gems.
You’ll also find expat book clubs that are women-only, professionally focused, parenting-related, or tied to specific nationalities. And if you don’t find a group that feels like the perfect fit, many expats simply start their own and watch it grow.
How to Find the Right Book Club for You
Finding a book club in Dubai is easier than you think—it just takes a bit of initiative and knowing where to look.
1. Facebook Groups and Expat Communities
One of the most popular ways to find book clubs in Dubai is through expat-focused Facebook groups. Groups like “Dubai Expat Women,” “British Mums Dubai,” or “Dubai Book Club” frequently have members posting about monthly reads and new meet-ups. You can either join an existing club or drop a message saying you’re looking to start one.
These groups are usually supportive and full of like-minded people who are just as eager to connect as you are. Many of them also offer event calendars and regular discussions, so once you join, you’re never out of the loop.
2. Meetup and Event Platforms
Websites and apps like Meetup and Eventbrite have become go-to places for finding niche communities in major cities like Dubai. A quick search for “book clubs in Dubai” brings up a list of gatherings happening across the city.
Some popular groups host themed nights, book swaps, and even author talks. You’ll be surprised at how many clubs meet monthly across neighborhoods like Marina, Downtown, and Jumeirah. Some even rotate locations to keep it interesting.
3. Local Cafés and Bookstores
If you’re the type to wander into a bookstore and get lost for hours, you’re in luck. Independent bookstores and cozy cafés around Dubai often host book club events or can point you toward clubs that use their space.
Shops like Booktopia or cafes in artsy hubs like Alserkal Avenue sometimes have community boards or event flyers that list book meetups. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff—many of them are avid readers themselves and love connecting readers.
4. WhatsApp Groups and Word of Mouth
Believe it or not, some of the most loyal, tight-knit book clubs in Dubai never advertise publicly. They grow through word of mouth, passed from friend to friend, or formed casually over dinner conversations. If you’ve made a few acquaintances in your neighborhood or workplace, try asking if they know of any clubs.
Alternatively, start one yourself. Post a message in a community group or building WhatsApp chat. You’ll be surprised how many people say, “I’ve been looking for one too!”
Tips for Joining (or Starting) a Book Club in Dubai
Once you’ve found a club that catches your interest, here are a few tips to get the most out of the experience:
1. Be Consistent
Even if you’re feeling shy at first, keep showing up. Most clubs meet monthly or bi-weekly, and the more regularly you attend, the easier it gets to connect.
2. Don’t Worry About Finishing the Book
Life gets busy—especially in Dubai. Many members show up without having finished (or even started) the book. The conversation is what matters. It’s okay to listen, learn, and join in where you can.
3. Respect Different Views
In a multicultural setting like Dubai, you’ll hear a wide range of opinions, especially with books that tackle identity, history, or personal struggle. Keep an open mind—it’s part of what makes the experience so enriching.
4. Suggest Books That Reflect Your Background
If you’re from a particular cultural background or want to highlight certain authors, don’t be afraid to suggest it. Most expat book clubs love discovering voices they haven’t encountered before.
5. Make It Social
Many clubs blend book talk with food, drinks, or even a walk on the beach. Don’t hesitate to suggest casual outings—it deepens friendships and creates a true sense of community.
Stories That Stay With You: The Real Impact of Joining
Beyond just reading, book clubs in Dubai often lead to lifelong friendships. People have met their closest friends, business partners, even roommates through these gatherings. Some have found healing through discussing emotional memoirs; others have gained clarity on life changes after diving into self-help reads.
There’s something incredibly comforting about sitting in a circle—whether in a café or on Zoom—and knowing that others are going through the same experiences as you. The books become a shared mirror, and through them, you begin to see not just the world more clearly, but yourself too.
You’re One Book Away from Belonging
Whether you’re new to Dubai or have lived here for years, joining an expat book club is an easy, rewarding way to meet people and stay connected. It offers you a chance to slow down, unplug, and feel grounded in the fast-paced swirl of city life.
So take the first step—send a message, RSVP to that Meetup, ask a friend if they’ve heard of any clubs. Before you know it, you’ll be deep in discussion about your latest read, sipping coffee with people who were once strangers and are now becoming your closest circle.
Because in the end, the right book can change your life—but the right people, even more so.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
