With Galentine’s Day just around the corner, making friends as a mum can feel like navigating a social minefield—while balancing a baby in one arm and a coffee in the other. Why does it sometimes feel like dating all over again?  Maybe it’s because there’s no app (yet!) for, “I love your leggings; let’s be friends.” Or perhaps it’s the unspoken quest to find someone who gets your caffeine obsession and knows the joy of sneaking a biscuit in the pantry for a moment of peace.

In Abu Dhabi, where the community is as diverse as it is transient, the challenge of making meaningful connections can feel even more daunting. But fear not fellow mamas—friendship is just a playground (or breakfast event) away.

The Playground Flirt

If making mum friends were a sport, the playground would be the Olympic arena. You’re scanning the crowd, looking for someone who seems approachable. Your kid has just taken off towards the swings, and there you are, trying to strike up a conversation while simultaneously preventing a slide catastrophe.

“Your son’s got a great arm!” you shout as a random toddler launches a ball into the bushes. The mum next to you nods politely but doesn’t engage. Did you come on too strong? Too casual? Should you have complimented her pram instead?

Playgrounds are prime spots for the “mum friend flirt,” but they’re also high-stakes environments. You’re juggling small talk with keeping an eye on your kid, who’s now trying to climb up the slide. Tip: Keep it light and situational. “Mine’s obsessed with the swings too—do they ever get tired?” is usually a good opener.

The key is to not overthink it. Every mum has been in your shoes (often literally—mum trainers are a universal uniform), and most are just as keen for a bit of adult conversation.

Mama-Friendly Events in Abu Dhabi

Here’s where the magic happens—outside the chaos of the playground and in spaces specifically designed for mums to connect. Abu Dhabi is brimming with opportunities to meet like-minded mothers, and no, you don’t have to endure awkward PTA meetings to find your people.

Take Eklektik Mama’s BYOBaby Mama Breakfasts (that’s Bring Your Own Baby, not bottle—although no judgment if you wish it was the latter). Picture this: you, a delicious breakfast at Alkalime, a sitter to entertain your little one, and a room full of mums who just get it. There’s no need for small talk about the weather or the latest teething gel—these events are curated for real, honest conversations.

Prefer something more active? The MaMA Fit classes combine fitness with socialising, proving that nothing bonds mums faster than a shared struggle to survive burpees. And if you’re looking for a night off, the Mamas’ Sanity Saving Soirées are all about good vibes, good company and zero guilt for leaving the kids at home.

The best part? Events like these remove the awkward “getting to know you” phase. Everyone is there for the same reason—to connect, laugh and maybe commiserate about who got the least sleep last night.

Tips to Stop Overthinking It

If you’re feeling hesitant about putting yourself out there, you’re not alone. Here’s a little secret: most mums are just as nervous as you are. Whether they look like they have it together or not, every mother has had those moments of overthinking.

• Start Small: You don’t need to spill your life story in the first five minutes. Start with simple, open-ended questions like, “How old is your little one?” or “Have you tried any good baby classes nearby?” It’s amazing how quickly a casual chat can turn into a deep conversation about labour stories, sleep regression and snack bribes.
• Be Honest: Motherhood is the ultimate equaliser. There’s no need to pretend you’ve got it all figured out—none of us do. A little vulnerability can go a long way. “I barely got out the door today” or “I’m running on coffee and sheer willpower” will probably get a nod of solidarity.
• Focus on Shared Moments: Whether it’s a meltdown in the supermarket or a mutual love for a specific coffee shop, shared experiences create instant connection.
• Follow Up: If you hit it off with a fellow mum, don’t let the moment pass. Suggest meeting up for a coffee or attending an event together. Yes, it might feel awkward at first, but remember—building friendships (like dating!) takes effort and most mums will appreciate the initiative.

Why It’s Worth It

Building a circle of mum friends isn’t just about having someone to grab coffee with. It’s about finding people who understand the ups and downs of motherhood, who won’t bat an eye when your toddler decides to throw a tantrum in public, and who’ll cheer you on when you finally get a full night’s sleep.

In a city like Abu Dhabi, where many of us are far from family, these friendships can become your lifeline. They’re the ones who’ll drop off a meal when you’re sick, laugh with you over the absurdities of parenting and remind you that you’re doing an amazing job—even on the tough days.

Call to Action

Ready to meet your new mum crew? Check out Eklektik Mama’s events and join a community that’s all about real connection and zero judgment. Because motherhood is better when we tackle it together—one coffee, one laugh, and one tantrum at a time. It’s a date mama!