Abu Dhabi’s Al Raha Gardens: Where neighbours go the extra mile for each other
What really makes a home? It isn’t only the world you build within four walls. It’s the little world just outside them. It’s the people you walk with, the ones you start clubs with, for swimming or for gardening. And sometimes it’s the ones you spend your first Halloween with, in a new city and a new country. In Al Raha Gardens, you can feel that world the moment you step onto its paths. They…
Al Raha Gardens in Abu Dhabi is known for its strong sense of community, where neighbors actively support and look out for one another. The neighborhood's winding paths lead to various pockets of green space, offering opportunities for residents to meet and form friendships. Heba Attia, a new resident, started Halloween celebrations by creating a WhatsApp group and becoming Vice President of the residents' association.
Her efforts led to the organization of community events, a mini-library, and even feeding stations for neighborhood cats. Suzana Oliver, known as the "Google of the Gardens," emphasizes the trust and love within the community, stating that if someone posts about a problem, others are eager to help. Fitness is also a way to make friends, with swimming classes and aquafit programmes catering to various age groups.
The swimming club, led by Jan Naylor, has remained active throughout the years, including during COVID and the current conflict. Naylor teaches swimming to women of all ages, introducing an aquafit program for older women. The children participate in water safety and fitness, while also making new friends. The gardening society thrives, with residents exchanging seeds, recommending stores, and sharing gardening tips.
Overall, Al Raha Gardens fosters a strong community spirit, where neighbors are always willing to help and support one another.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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