Coping with homesickness can be really challenging for international students in Dubai, especially when it is their first time staying away from their loved ones.
Follow these proven tips to overcome this feeling of isolation and cherish your new adventure.
1. Feeling homesick is natural, it can happen to anyone:
As you venture on this exciting journey, it is essential to acknowledge that feeling homesick is a natural part of adapting to a new environment. It is normal to miss your family and friends, especially in the earlier period. Allow yourself to share the struggles, don’t burden yourself with overthinking. Learn how to deal with your emotional challenges:
- If you are sad or upset, cry.
- If you are feeling lonely, talk to your roommate and peers.
- If you are feeling closed in, go out and explore nearby localities.
- If you are stressed and overthinking, start journaling.
These might sound like basic advice, but they are extremely effective ideas. These small wins relieve you from stress and over time you will start feeling more at peace. Additionally, letting your emotions out will allow you to move on and focus on other important things.
2. Join activity clubs and be socially active:
It is time to follow your hobby. Indulge yourself in activities that interest you, join clubs and social groups that share similar interests and connect with fellow students. Students in higher education institutions in Dubai generally group together and create clubs to engage in, which helps to keep them busy while enjoying their hobbies.
This is also an opportunity to know people from different cultures and backgrounds. Getting to know these people will not only help you eliminate your homesickness, but you can also make friends for life in Dubai.
3. Make yourself comfortable by decorating your room:
Creating a home away from home can be a major challenge. Try creating a comfortable environment for yourself with all the unique aspects of your home country. Although Dubai is a welcoming country, it can still feel alien to you, coping with homesickness requires you to feel belonging and familiarity things around you.
Personalise your living space with familiar items like photos, memorable items from your home country and favourite books.
4. Explore Dubai and familiarise yourself with its culture:
Don’t just stay in your room, one of the best tips for coping with homesickness is to immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore the new city and get into the rich tapestry of Dubai’s culture and tradition.
As an international student in Dubai, there are so many new activities, cuisines and places you can explore. By embracing your surroundings and engaging with the community, you can find comfort and belonging, making your time more rewarding. You can also explore any of these local markets in your free time:
- Meena Bazar
- Dubai Spice Souk
- Textile Souk
- Meena Bazaar
- Naif Souq
- Dubai Gold Souk
- Waterfront Market
- Global Village Market
- Ripe Market
These are some of the local markets you can explore at weekends or free time and feel at home.
5. Stay in touch with your friends and family:
Maintaining connections with loved ones is crucial for easing homesickness. Regular conversations through platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams can provide emotional support, especially in the initial phase. Make sure to have a regular conversation with your friends and family, share your experiences good or bad and find comfort in maintaining a strong emotional connection.
However, it is important to strike a balance. Limiting social media usage can also help, allowing you to focus on your new environment and make new friends instead of falling into comparing your life in Dubai to things back home.
6. Know your neighbourhood and transportation route:
Familiarising yourself with your surroundings can significantly help in coping with homesickness. Go out and explore nearby localities, find places like stores, pharmacies and social clubs to keep yourself engaged.
It is also important to get an Nol card to easily transit in the city. The card can be used in any mode of transportation, including buses, trams and the metro to pay the fare. Additionally, the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) offers a trip planner called Wojhati, which helps in planning routes and checking schedules.
Exploring your neighbourhood will not only enhance your comfort but also encourage you to discover local attractions, shops and eateries that can make Dubai feel more like home.
7. Upskill yourself to compliment your professional journey:
There is nothing better than learning something new. It will keep you busy and help in coping with homesickness. Take advantage of the diverse opportunities available in Dubai by enrolling in workshops or courses that interest you.
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Courses
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How it will benefit
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Learn English
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Enhances communication skills, making it easier to connect with others and navigate daily life in Dubai.
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Digital Marketing Workshops
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Helps with essential skills for the modern job market, improving employability in various industries.
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Coding Bootcamps
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Provides technical skills that are highly sought after, allowing students to pursue careers in technology and innovation.
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Cultural Awareness Seminars
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Helps understand local customs and practices, enabling better integration into the community and enhancing social interactions.
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Public Speaking Courses
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Builds confidence and enhances presentation skills, essential for academic success and future career opportunities.
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Creative Workshops
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Encourages self-expression and improves creative skills, which can be beneficial for personal development and professional communication.
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These are just a few options that you can choose from, but you also take advantage of seasonal courses. It will help you upscale your journey in Dubai.
8. Don’t forget to prioritise self-care:
Prioritising self-care is essential for mental well-being when coping with homesickness. Make time for activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Additionally, ensure that you’re maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating well, getting enough sleep and seeking professional help if needed.
Consider incorporating practices like yoga or mindfulness into your routine to help manage stress and improve your overall mood. GBS Dubai also emphasises the importance of well-being among its students by providing resources and support for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
9. Follow a familiar routine:
Establishing a routine can provide a sense of stability in an unfamiliar environment. Incorporate familiar activities from home into your daily life. Whether it is morning coffee rituals or evening walks, these small habits can create comfort amidst change.
Additionally, try to maintain regular sleep patterns and study schedules to help ground yourself as you navigate life in Dubai. GBS Dubai supports this approach by offering flexible study options that allow students to balance their academic commitments with personal routines effectively.
