As the New Year’s Eve festivities take over the UAE, not everyone is swept up in the excitement. For many expatriates living far from family and friends, the holiday season amplifies feelings of loneliness and isolation. While the streets and venues of Dubai come alive with fireworks, parties, and celebrations, some expats struggle to find connections or a sense of belonging.
Lisa Lucas, a 30-year-old teacher from Canada, has been living in Dubai for a year. As the holiday approaches, she reflects on the stark contrast between her life abroad and the celebrations back home. “Everyone seems to be with their families and friends,” Lisa shared. “Seeing photos of my loved ones celebrating together just reminds me how far away I am. It can feel overwhelming.”
Determined not to spend the evening alone, Lisa plans to attend a local expat meetup. “There are events and gatherings specifically for people like me, and I’m considering joining one,” she explained.
For others, the loneliness feels harder to escape. Marco Dante, a 40-year-old software engineer from Italy, admitted he struggles to make meaningful connections in Dubai. “I thought meeting people would be easier when I moved here,” he said. “But everyone seems busy with their own plans. On New Year’s Eve, I’ll probably just stay home and watch the fireworks on TV.”
Social media often adds to the sense of isolation. Mia A., a 25-year-old freelancer from Australia, shared how scrolling through posts of parties and gatherings intensifies her loneliness. “It’s hard not to feel left out when everyone seems to be having fun,” she said.
While many expats thrive in the UAE, the holiday season can serve as a reminder of the distance from loved ones and the challenges of building a community in a new country. For those feeling isolated, events and social groups offer a chance to connect and create new traditions, even far from home.
