In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Dubai’s British expat group, Real Brits in Dubai (RBID), organized a festive dinner for over 130 members, providing a joyous Christmas celebration for those in need. The event, held at Mina’s Kitchen in the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, was generously funded by fellow expats eager to make a positive impact during the holiday season.
Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus added to the festive atmosphere, joining diners for a traditional turkey dinner against the backdrop of a winter wonderland at the venue. The decorated setting, adorned with twinkling Christmas trees and tinsel, resonated with cheer as expats gathered to share a meal and the spirit of togetherness. 
Ian Sanders, the event organizer and RBID admin, shared the group’s motivation, stating, “It’s all about giving back really.” The initiative originated during the challenging times of COVID-19, with members expressing a strong desire to support the community. Sanders explained, “Some people are still having a bit of a tough time, so we decided to do a festive brunch to bring people together for enjoyment and excitement, meeting those they usually only interact with online.”
The Festive Edition event featured live cooking stations, children’s entertainment, and tables funded by benevolent British expats. Rob Mortimer, another RBID admin, emphasized the group’s commitment to ensuring Christmas for everyone, especially the children. Mortimer stated, “We want to make sure there’s Christmas for everybody, especially the kids.” The group’s initial focus on networking expanded to providing support for Brits navigating challenges such as visa issues and employment.
The RBID Facebook group, boasting close to 16,000 members, has evolved into a registered company, ‘Real Brits in Dubai Marketing Services LLC,’ offering assistance with job searches, visa concerns, and organizing tailored events for its members. The community has become a valuable resource for British expats, fostering connections and support.
Abi Hendry, a British expat who moved to Dubai 18 months ago, praised the group for its support and sense of community. She highlighted its value for newcomers navigating life in a new country. “It’s such a good community for people helping others, especially when you move abroad and you don’t always know how things work,” she said.
The Real Brits in Dubai Facebook group, established five years ago, continues to thrive as a supportive space for British expats in Dubai. Ian Paul, a 10-year resident of Dubai and a regular participant in community events, commended the group’s supportive nature. “It’s a great online community, and it turns real with events like this. Everyone in this community is very supportive, especially at this time of year, and it’s for those reasons that keep us coming back,” he expressed.