Sketchbooks

### No pressure. No judgment. Just books, curiosity, and good company. **What to Expect** This is a relaxed, judgment-free book club created for people who love books, are getting back into reading, or simply enjoy being around curious minds. There is **no assigned book** and **no expectation to finish anything**. Read at your own pace — whether it’s one page, one chapter, or a book you’re still thinking about months later. Come share what you’re currently reading, something you’ve read before, or even a book you hope to start someday. The focus is not on how much you’ve read, but on the conversations, perspectives, and connections that unfold. We’ll begin with casual mingling, ease into a light icebreaker, and then let the discussion flow naturally. Expect thoughtful conversations, diverse viewpoints, and a welcoming mix of readers — fast, slow, and somewhere in between — all while enjoying coffee, tea, or your favorite beverage. **What to Bring** • Yourself • A book you’re reading, have read, or want to read • Curiosity and an open mind **Location** Art & Dine @ The Springs Souk (Near Emirates Hills, Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Hattans) **Policy** • Attendees are required to avail any item from the menu • Please be respectful and listen when someone else is speaking **Parking** Free mall Parking **Contact** Rinku — WhatsApp +971 50 558 2680 This is a warm space to slow down, meet new people, exchange ideas, and feel inspired — without pressure, deadlines, or judgment.

A cozy, no-pressure book club. **What to Expect:** Welcome to a cozy, relaxed book club built around conversation, curiosity, and community. There is no assigned book and no pressure to finish anything. Come share what you’re currently reading, a past favorite, or a book you’d love to read in the future. We’ll start with casual mingling, move into a light icebreaker, and then open the space for organic book talk and discussion. Expect thoughtful conversations, different perspectives, and a welcoming mix of like-minded and not-so-like-minded readers. **What to bring:** • Yourself • A book you’re reading (or one you love or want to read) • Curiosity and an open mind **Location:** Art & Dine @ The Springs Souk (Near Emirates Hills, Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Hattans) **Policy:** • Attendees are required to avail any item from the menu • Please be respectful and listen when someone else is speaking **Parking:** Free mall parking available **Contact:** Rinku — WhatsApp +971 50 558 2680 This is a warm, judgment-free space to meet new people, exchange ideas, and enjoy stories together.

الكتاب يتوفر مطبوعا والكترونيا (يرجى متابعة الرابط للتفاصيل) «يضيف برنلف كثافة كبيرة في سرد هذه الحكاية الرائعة والمروعة إلى درجة أننا نشعر بمرافقة مارتن في تدهوره، ليس كمراقبين، ولكن كمشاركين في مأساته» - أنيتا ديساي، النيويورك تايمز «يتسرب عقل مارتن، رويدًا رويدًا، ويذوب في النهاية... رواية برنلف عن هذه الرحلة الرهيبة مؤثرة للغاية، ولا يمكنك تحويل انتباهك عنها إطلاقًا» - هارولد بنتر «رواية صغيرة مرعبة وقوية» - الصنداي تايمز هذه الرواية الحميمة والمؤثرة عن التدهور الدرامي الذي يعانيه رجل مسن يصاب بمرض الألزهايمر تستمد قوتها من الصوت السردي الفريد والرائع للرجل نفسه. ولهذا السبب ما زالت من أكثر الروايات قراءة في الأدب الهولندي، وبِيع منها أكثر من750 ألف نسخة، وتُرجمت إلى العديد من اللغات، وتحولت إلى فيلم سينمائي. يعيش السبعيني مارتن كلاين، في البداية، بذهن حاضر، وإن كان مرهقًا، مع زوجته في ماساتشوستس. ولدا في هولندا، وتحملا بصعوبة الاحتلال النازي لها قبل أن يهاجرا إلى الولايات المتحدة، حيث عمل مارتن في منظمة بحرية. في حين أن مارتن اعتبر نفسه لفترة طويلة «شخصية هامشية» اجتماعيًّا، وحياته العائلية غير مبهرة، إلا أن له قدرة متميزة على الملاحظة والإدراك، حتى مع تدهور حالته الصحية. يلاحظ بلا حول ولا قوة: «يبدو أنني أفقد كلماتي مثلما يفقد شخص دمه»، ويقرر: «سأختلق حياةً لنفسي من دقيقة إلى دقيقة وأصدقها»، لكنه في النهاية يصل إلى قناعة أنه «الوحيد الباقي على قيد الحياة من أبناء لغتي». لقد كتب برنلف رواية قاتمة وعميقة عن الخسارة التي لا رجعة فيها: فقدان الذات، وفقدان اللغة، والعلاقات، والذكريات، ولكن على الرغم من ذلك فإن صوت مارتن في نهاية الرواية يوحي بالأمل. كتب برنلف (1937-2012) مجموعة كبيرة من الأعمال بما في ذلك القصائد والقصص القصيرة والروايات والمقالات، وترجم الشعراء الإسكندنافيين لارس غوستافسون وتوماس ترانسترومر إلى اللغة الهولندية، وكان محررًا لدوريات أدبية. وحصل على العديد من الجوائز. من أشهر رواياته: «أوهام العقل» التي صدرت عام 1984، باعت أكثر من 750 ألف نسخة وحُوِّلت إلى فيلم روائي طويل وتُرجمت إلى العديد من اللغات. أوهام العقل - جي. برنلف الكرمة ٢٠٢٤ https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217955475 كيف أحصل على الكتاب؟ مكتبة غاف التواصل عن طريق الموبايل او الواتس اب +971527798773 سعيد (متجر لتوصيل الكتب داخل الإمارات) التواصل عن طريق الموبايل او الواتس اب +971508386699 تطبيق أبجد على الآيفون والآندرويد [https://www.abjjad.com/](https://www.abjjad.com/) Kinokuniya [https://uae.kinokuniya.com/](https://uae.kinokuniya.com/) مؤسسة هنداوي [https://www.hindawi.org](https://www.hindawi.org) Storytel [https://www.storytel.com](https://www.storytel.com) نيل وفرات المتجر الاكتروني للكتب [https://www.neelwafurat.com/](https://www.neelwafurat.com/) وراقون المتجر الاكتروني للكتب [https://wrraqoon.com/](https://wrraqoon.com/) Google Play الكتب على متجر [https://play.google.com/store/books](https://play.google.com/store/books) Amazon الكتب على متجر [https://www.amazon.ae/](https://www.amazon.ae/) Virgin الكتب على متجر [https://www.virginmegastore.ae/](https://www.virginmegastore.ae/) Iqraa shelves on goodreads [https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/44694](https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/44694) Iqraa on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/iqraaarabicdubai/](https://www.instagram.com/iqraaarabicdubai/) Iqraa on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArabicBookClubDubai](https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArabicBookClubDubai)

**Basketball 5on5 pick-up game in Dubai.** Every tuesday and thursday. Level is amateur and intermediate. Mixed level. Sign up to participate in whats app +971568723607. Only whats app registering. Adults only. Stats and referee included. Parking, water: available. Баскетбол 5на5 Дубай. Запись через ватс ап +971568723607. Взрослые. Паркинг доступен. Make new friends, socialize, networking, competition, friendship.

Welcome to the **Downtown Dubai Book Discussion Circle (every 2 weeks Tuesday)**. 📚✨ This session is about: "What's Your Dream?" by Simon Squibb Please only RSVP, if you’re actually planning to **1\. read the whole book before the event** and **2\. join the event on Tuesday**, so our discussions can stay rich, focused, and meaningful for everyone. ✨ -> From experience, we’ve seen that 15 people is the sweet spot for a great conversation: we have a core group of regular attendees (10 people) - and we open up every session for 5 new members, so we are excited to meet you (please join the waiting list, we approve new members manually). Few Additional Notes to make this a great event: **Cost**: The event itself is free to attend. You’re simply responsible for covering your own food and drinks at the cafe. 😊 **RSVP**: When signing up for the Dubai Downtown Book Club, please confirm your attendance and kindly update your RSVP if your plans change (so others from the waiting list can join). This small step makes a big difference in organizing a great session for all. You will find also upcoming events on our instagram community page: https://www.instagram.com/growhub.global/ and see our regular members in the posts/reels. This is about real human connection and exchange about our favorite books.📚

**[Learn to dance…your LIFE will change!](https://dubaidance.com)** Nervous about dancing in public? [Private lessons](https://dubaidance.com/dances/classes-for-adults) take the edge off and allow you to really let loose and see what you’re made of! *Private dance lessons are the quickest, most effective way* to improve your dancing. We personalize each lesson based on your individual needs, desires, and goals, adjusting our teaching style to your ability, personality, and expectations. You’ll discover the difference some one-on-one attention can make in your dancing! This ensures the most thorough and rapid learning process, all while keeping it fun, easy, and comfortable. **[Congratulations on your upcoming wedding](https://dubaidance.com/dances/wedding-dance)** and congratulations on wanting to make the most out of your first wedding dance! Ok, you have your wedding prepared: the wedding dress, hairstyle, flowers and even the cake and unique invitation cards are ready! What’s next? It’s the wedding dance – a key part of any wedding. *For Wedding Couples, our special wedding program provides* hours of unforgettable moments of fun, enjoyable practice, stress relief, brilliant music, incredible moves and much more will be learnt and perfected to make the dream of your [Wedding Dance](https://dubaidance.com/dances/wedding-dance)[ ]((https://dubaidance.com/wedding-dance-classes/)) come true! **Turn your wedding dance into your favorite ‘Strictly’ routine at Dance For You!** **Please note,** you will have a full 45min individual dance session with our professional dance coach, who will customized an individual dance program based on your dancing needs and it will cost **[only 100AED](https://pay.nomodapp.com/l/3af86dbb3e4b4d8a)**, which is less than your cost of lunch. For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact our studio on: WhatsApp/Phone: [+97145520153](https://api.whatsapp.com/send/?phone=97145520153&text=Hey+Guys+I+wish+to+learn+dancing+with+you+at+Dance+For+You&app_absent=0) [Instagram](https://instagram.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/user/danceforyouindubai) [Quick Info](https://taplink.cc/danceforyouindubai)

**PADI® Advanced Open Water Diver Course** _“ Seek Adventure , Explore More ”_ Continue your Scuba Diving journey with the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. Experience new adventures , Fine-tune your buoyancy skills, Build confidence in your navigation abilities, and Try new activities like _wreck diving , night diving, or drift diving._ Your Advanced certification opens the door to dive sites deeper than 18m/60ft and a variety of dive sites you will able to explore . **PADI AOW Course consists of Two main portions :** Much easier online study eLearning + Much enjoyable 5 Open Water Dives . On the first day, you will do three Shore Dives , then we arrange for another day for two Boat Dives , then we can celebrate. 🥳 You may schedule the sessions with your instructor during weekdays or weekends every day or on separate days as the conditions and time permits. **How can you start and what will you do :** ♡ Booking your course, provide your name , birth date, profile picture, and e-mail. ♡ Redeem the eLearning code received on your email , fill and sign the liability and medical release forms, and start the course in your preferred language. ♡ Your instructor will select with you what you need to read and arrange to schedule your first 3 dives. ♡ Then, you may schedule your other 2 dives on the nearest convenient date. ♡ Once successfully completed all of the requirements the instructor will happily process your certification. **Requirements , Terms and Conditions :** ● AOW students should have gained an Open Water Diver certificate, be at minimum age of 12 years old , be able to swim and medically fit for diving. ● The course is a complete package , with a duration of 2 days as described. _We are pleased to answer any further questions and inquiries regarding the course._ See Your Bubbles 🐬 & Many Thanks Sea Secrets Scuba seasecrets@yandex.com IG Sea_Secrets_Scuba https://instagram.com/sea_secrets_scuba?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ== +971562050943

I started this group to bring together Dubai readers who enjoy Buffy’s (IG @buffys__) picks. April’s book is *The Vet’s Daughter* by Barbara Comyns (IG [link](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWrACCBF0Rq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)), and I’d love for you to join the first meet-up in a month. We'll chat about the book, meet fellow readers, and just have a chill time! It’s free to join, and I’ll confirm a café once numbers are final. Just a quick note: * It's a small group. If you sign up, please do your best to attend * Try to finish the book beforehand so everyone can fully join the discussion Excited to kick this off with you all!

Hello! Welcome to our weekly social event. It's fun, free & open for everyone (including beginners, excluding kids). \-\- You will love: \* The morning coffee in the park \* The activities: Sketching, journaling, group discussions, or simply reading... \* The Picnic in the park (bring your picnic or group delivery) \* Meeting new friends \-\- Information & booking: IMPORTANT: BOOKING by sending a WhatsApp message through the link below & wait for CONFIRMATION : [https://chat.whatsapp.com/LdM6ecgZH7BCuJefUaBxXz?mode=hqrt2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LdM6ecgZH7BCuJefUaBxXz?mode=hqrt2) Please feel free to follow and share our Instagram page: [https://www.instagram.com/nomad.sketchers](https://www.instagram.com/nomad.sketchers?igsh=MTg1NW5ybXR1bWYwOA==) \-\- Fees FREE. You pay what you order (coffee, picnic...). \-\- What to bring: \* Notebook, journal, books \* Optional: whatever sketching/painting materials you have: pencils, pens, watercolor palettes, brushes... \* First-timers do not need to bring anything & can use shared materials Looking forward to seeing you!

Join us for our next **Freehands art** meetup! - Free 🖌️☕ 📍 **Location:** Le Pain Quotidien, Dubai Marina Mall ⏰ **Time:** 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM Unwind, sketch, and let your creativity flow in a cozy, inspiring atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just love to doodle, this is the perfect space to express yourself, meet like-minded creatives, and enjoy great conversations over coffee. Bring your sketchbook, enjoy a warm drink, and let your imagination take over! No experience needed—just your passion for creativity! **📩 RSVP Now!** Let us know you're coming, WhatsApp: +971554413995, so we can save you a seat. Can't wait to see you there! 🎨✨ Check our previous gatherings photos: https://www.meetup.com/freehand/photos/35584362/ #FreehandImagination #ArtMeetup #DubaiArtists #SketchAndSip

What if you could live a different version of your life? 📖✨ Our next Primexar Book Club read is The Midnight Library. A story about choices, regrets, and all the lives we could have lived. From exploring attachment… to exploring possibilities. 📚 Join us as we dive into a conversation that might just change the way you see your own path. **📅 2nd of May** **⏰4 PM** **📍 JLT** **🚨Free entry \| Limited seats \| RSVP required** **📲 To join: WhatsApp or 📞 Call us at +971 50 103 8399**

*Canvas & Contemplation: Deep Reflections Through Paintings* **Fee:** AED 30 **Duration:** 2 hours **Format:** Two paintings, one per hour — deep group discussion follows each What happens when philosophy meets paint and canvas? Welcome to **Canvas & Contemplation: Deep Reflections Through Paintings**, a unique gathering where we explore the profound connection between visual art and the human experience. Each session, we’ll sit with two powerful artworks — not to critique them like art historians, but to let them speak to our minds and souls. You'll be surprised by the range of interpretations one painting can evoke — where one person sees despair, another may find hope; where one sees chaos, another finds divine order. This is a space for meaningful, respectful conversation that opens us up to new perspectives and helps us see more — in the art, and in ourselves. Whether you're a philosopher at heart, an artist in spirit, or simply curious about how we see and feel, this event offers a space to slow down, look deeply, and think together. **Come with an open mind, leave with new eyes.** **Whatsapp link**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FytQQgS85I61vS6nkduLm5

Hello All if you like to join our what'app group to receive our monthly updates. Please join under this link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KriZ3ly93rsJz9LrD3bhVd Books and Booze Rana

**💥 Sip n Paint, Reconnect 💥** Step into a calming, creative space where art becomes more than just paint on a canvas—it becomes a form of play, release, and self-expression. This Sip n Paint session gently weaves in elements inspired by art therapy, inviting you to slow down, tune in, and express what words often can’t. Through intuitive painting, free exploration of colors, shapes, and patterns, you’ll experience the restorative benefits of creative play—reducing stress, quieting the mind, and reconnecting with your natural sense of curiosity and joy. There’s no right or wrong outcome here; the process matters more than the result. As you paint, you’ll also share the space with like-minded creatives—socializing, laughing, and enjoying a beverage in a warm, supportive atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, emotional release, or simply a fun and meaningful way to connect, this session offers a gentle reset for both mind and spirit. Come as you are. Play freely. Leave lighter, inspired, and creatively nourished. ✨ Fee - Aed 40 Payment linked below: https://pay.ziina.com/annuevents/N4CHAj4XNr

Posting this early because seemingly all Sundays in May are holidays or busy! I picked a shorter thriller that's hopefully a fast read/listen. [Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3458940) Location: Grandview Cafe, *1455 W. 3rd Ave*, Columbus, OH 43212 [Menu](https://www.grandviewcafe.com/menu) Book summary: Daniel leads a rich life in the university town of Athens, Georgia. He's got a couple close friends, a steady paycheck working for a regional airline, and of course, for a few glorious days each Fall, college football tailgates. He considers himself to be a mostly lucky guy -- despite the fact that he's suffered from a debilitating disease since he was a small child, one that has left him unable to speak or to move without a wheelchair. Largely confined to his home, Daniel spends the hours he's not online communicating with irate air travelers observing his neighborhood from his front porch. One young woman passes by so frequently that spotting her out the window has almost become part of his daily routine. Until the day he's almost sure he sees her being kidnapped.

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

It feels like we just saw each other 🤷. Join members of the local design and UX community for our monthly breakfast. For May we’re stopping in for Rooh’s popup breakfast/cafe concept. You know someone is getting the lobster yuzu croissant, and that’s not even the prettiest thing on the menu!.

We're meeting at 5pm local to read from and discuss Normal People by Sally Rooney. Read what you can beforehand and bring your thoughts, favorite moments, and questions. New members are very welcome.

🌸 Mother’s Day deserves more than flowers 🌸 Join us for an elevated outdoor paint experience designed for creativity, connection, and unforgettable memories. ✨ Brushes & Brunch: Mother’s Day Garden Edition ✨ Beautiful garden vibes Brunch bites Signature refreshments Guided painting Soft music Luxury energy Whether you're celebrating your mother, your daughter, your friends, or simply honoring yourself — this experience is your invitation to slow down and create something beautiful. No painting experience needed — just bring your good energy. This is not your typical paint party. This is intentional. This is elevated. This is your moment. 🎟 Limited seating available to keep the experience intimate. Reserve your spot early https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brushes-brunch-a-curated-mothers-day-painting-experience-tickets-1987709930911

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**