Making Friends In Bahrain: A Guide To Socializing

Making friends in Bahrain can be challenging, especially for expats who might feel lonely in a new country. However, there are several ways to meet people and make friends. Joining social groups, clubs, or community events can help connect you with others who share your interests. Volunteering for charity work is another great way to meet people and give back to the community. Being open to conversations, even in unlikely places like the supermarket or coffee shop, can also lead to new friendships. Online platforms such as buzzArab can also help connect you with similar-minded individuals in your area. Remember, many people are in the same situation and would welcome a friendly smile or hello!

Coffee mornings

• Choose a suitable venue: Select a coffee shop with a pleasant atmosphere and, if possible, one that is popular among locals and expats alike. Bahrain has a thriving coffee scene, with new shops and roasters popping up all the time. Consider places like Roast, Neo Books & Coffee, Starbucks, or Arabica.
• Be prepared: If you're nervous about striking up conversations with strangers, prepare some topics in advance. Ask people about their experiences moving to and living in Bahrain, and for any advice or tips they can offer. You could also share your own experiences and feelings of loneliness or homesickness—chances are, others feel the same way!
• Be proactive: Coffee mornings are a great opportunity to meet potential friends, but it's important to take the initiative. If you connect with someone, suggest exchanging contact information or planning another meetup.
• Join other groups: Coffee mornings often attract people who are interested in socialising and making new friends. Keep an eye out for social groups, clubs, or societies that align with your interests, and don't be afraid to join. You can find groups for almost everything in Bahrain, from country-specific clubs to sports teams.
• Volunteer: In addition to coffee mornings, consider volunteering for a local charity or community event. This will allow you to meet people with similar interests and contribute to a worthwhile cause.
• Keep an open mind: Don't be discouraged if making friends doesn't happen right away. Bahrain can seem unfriendly at first, but a simple smile or greeting can go a long way. You might be surprised by the connections you make in unexpected places, like the supermarket or while walking your dog.

Social groups

Bahrain has a wide variety of social groups that you can join to meet new people and make friends. These groups cover a range of interests and hobbies, so you can find one that aligns with your passions and hobbies.

One way to find these groups is to look at the Gulf Daily News, which lists various social groups and activities happening in Bahrain. This can be a great way to discover groups that fit your specific interests. For example, if you are interested in sports, you could join a local sporting team, or if you prefer a more cultural experience, you could seek out country groups that celebrate and explore specific cultures and traditions.

Additionally, there are clubs like The British Club and The Dilmun Club, which offer opportunities to socialise and connect with others. These clubs often host events and activities that can provide a more relaxed and casual setting for meeting people.

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and attend gatherings or meetings organised by these social groups. It can be intimidating at first, but remember that many others are likely seeking friendship and companionship, too. If you don't enjoy a particular group, you can always politely excuse yourself and try another one. The key is to be proactive and put yourself out there.

If you're an expat, there are often specific expat communities and groups that you can connect with. These groups can provide a great support system and sense of belonging as you navigate life in a new country. They often organise events and activities specifically tailored to the expat experience, making it easier to find common ground and shared interests with others.

So, whether you're interested in sports, culture, community service, or simply socialising, Bahrain's diverse range of social groups offers something for everyone. By joining these groups, you'll not only pursue your passions but also increase your chances of making meaningful friendships.

Charity work and volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to meet people and make friends in Bahrain. There are numerous charities and worthwhile causes that could use a helping hand. By volunteering, you can connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a difference. Here are some tips to guide you:

Identify Causes Close to Your Heart

Bahrain has a variety of volunteering opportunities, from general volunteering to more specific causes. Consider what issues are important to you and seek out organisations that align with your values and interests. Whether it's helping at a local animal shelter, supporting children with special needs, or contributing to environmental initiatives, there are numerous ways to get involved.

Utilise Your Skills and Expertise

Think about your unique skills and how you can put them to good use. For example, if you have a background in education, you could offer tutoring services or teach life skills to those in need. If you're good with your hands, you could join projects that focus on building or renovating spaces for the community. Using your expertise to contribute to a cause will not only be rewarding but also increase your chances of connecting with others.

Be Proactive and Reach Out

Don't wait for opportunities to find you. Take the initiative and actively seek out charities and organisations that resonate with you. Contact them and express your interest in volunteering. Many charities are always on the lookout for dedicated volunteers, and they will appreciate your enthusiasm and willingness to help.

Connect with Other Volunteers

Once you start volunteering, you'll likely meet other volunteers who share your passion for the cause. Engage with them, share your experiences, and build relationships. These individuals often come from diverse backgrounds and have interesting stories to tell. By connecting with them, you can expand your social circle and form meaningful friendships.

Stay Committed and Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to volunteering and building friendships. Show up regularly for your volunteer work and be dependable. This will not only help the organisation but also allow you to develop deeper connections with fellow volunteers. Over time, these shared experiences can foster strong bonds and turn acquaintances into lasting friends.

Community events

• Family fun days: These events are often organised by the local community and provide an excellent opportunity to meet families in your area. They usually involve games, activities, and entertainment for all ages, making it easy to connect with others in a relaxed and fun environment.
• Craft fairs: Craft fairs are a great way to explore your creative side and meet people with similar interests. You can sign up to showcase your crafts or simply attend to appreciate the creations of others. Craft fairs often have a friendly and social atmosphere, making it easy to strike up conversations with vendors and fellow attendees.
• Cultural events: Bahrain is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. Keep an eye out for cultural events and celebrations organised by different communities. These events can be a great way to learn about different cultures and connect with people from various backgrounds.
• Community fundraisers: Fundraising events such as charity auctions, bake sales, or sponsored runs are excellent opportunities to contribute to a good cause while socialising with like-minded individuals. You can sign up as a volunteer or simply attend and show your support. These events often attract a diverse range of participants, providing a great platform to meet people.
• Local festivals: Bahrain hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, film, food, and more. Attending these festivals can be a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with others who share your interests. Look out for popular festivals such as the Spring of Culture Festival, Bahrain International Music Festival, or the Bahrain Food Festival.
• Community sports days: Sports bring people together, and community sports days or tournaments can be a fantastic way to get involved and meet active individuals in your area. You can join a local team or simply attend as a spectator and show your support. These events often foster a sense of community and provide opportunities to socialise and make friends.

By actively participating in community events, you increase your chances of meeting people with similar interests and building meaningful connections. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and initiate conversations. Remember, many others may be seeking friendship and social connections, so your friendly approach could be welcomed and appreciated.

Online dating and friendship apps

The dating scene in Bahrain has largely transitioned to online platforms in recent years, with many singles preferring online dating to traditional forms of matchmaking. The rise of dating apps has made it easier for people to connect and meet potential partners or friends in their vicinity.

Tinder

The Tinder app is the most popular dating platform in Bahrain. It is free and easy to use, catering to a wide range of interests and demographics. However, Tinder is primarily known for facilitating casual hookups rather than fostering long-term, meaningful relationships.

Badoo

Badoo is another widely used dating app in Bahrain, similar to Tinder. It offers a live streaming feature that allows users to connect and interact with others in real-time.

OkCupid

OkCupid is a popular dating app that features a comprehensive profile system. It offers a paid A-list feature that provides users with additional perks, such as the ability to see who likes them.

Boo

Boo is a pioneering psychology tech company that helps individuals find compatible friends and partners based on their personality type. It offers both a free and paid version, making it accessible to a diverse range of users. Boo emphasises personality compatibility and promotes inclusive matchmaking, making it a unique alternative to traditional dating apps.

Bumble

Bumble is a well-known dating app that facilitates connections, with a particular focus on female users making the first move.

Grindr

Grindr is a dating app exclusive to the LGBTQ+ community, providing a safe and tailored platform for individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Mamba

The Mamba app is specifically designed for making friends and establishing platonic connections.

BestFriend

BestFriend is another online app dedicated to helping users find and connect with friends.

These apps provide excellent opportunities for individuals in Bahrain to expand their social circles and cultivate meaningful relationships, whether they are seeking romantic partnerships or platonic friendships.

Frequently asked questions