"Mom and Tots" Playgroup

Today was our second visit to the weekly “Mom and Tots” playgroup at a nearby hotel! There was a nice big group today of about 23-25 moms + little ones. Most of the children are right around Eleanor’s age which is perfect.

The women I have met so far come from several different countries (England, Scotland, Australia, Canada, Germany and other European countries, Jordan, Indian, and Asian countries), including two Americans, all speak English, and have been here in the United Arab Emirates from as short as 11 months to as long as 8 years. The majority of the women have been here for about 1-3 years. I already feel that I have started making some good friends.

I also met a woman at the hotel today who just arrived here a month ago from NY, although she also lived in Dubai from 2000-2004. She said something I've heard before and was happy to hear again - that people here are very interested in getting to know others. She actually also lived in small city in Ohio previously years ago and said it is difficult living somewhere where most of the people have lived there their whole life and already had their social networks/cliques set up. It was harder to get to know people. Here expats are looking to meet each other.

I feel positive that we are already meeting such great people after only being here a couple weeks.