UAE residents are swapping their phones for walking shoes. The Anti-Doomscroll Club is gaining traction across the emirates as a fresh weekend alternative. What started as a simple idea to escape digital fatigue has grown into a weekly ritual for hundreds of people looking to reconnect in the real world.
What is the Anti-Doomscroll Club?
The concept is straightforward. Members gather at a designated outdoor spot, agree to keep their phones in their pockets, and walk together for an hour or two. There are no fitness goals, no paces to maintain, and no digital distractions. It is purely about movement and conversation.
Organisers started the walks to combat the constant urge to scroll through social media feeds. In a world where screen time easily tops six hours a day for the average user, these walks offer a deliberate break. Participants say the simple act of walking without notifications helps them feel more grounded.
Where the strolls take place
While the movement found its footing along the coastal paths of Dubai, the trend is quickly spreading. Walkers are now organising meetups across different scenic routes in the country. Popular spots include the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Qana, and the quiet pathways of Yas Marina.
Each location is chosen for its pedestrian-friendly layout. The walks usually happen during the cooler morning hours or just before sunset, making them a comfortable option for families, solo walkers, and groups of friends alike.
Why walking is the new social hour
For many, the appeal lies in the lack of structure. Unlike traditional networking events or fitness classes, there is no pressure to perform. You simply show up and start talking to the person next to you.
Regular walkers note that the conversations flow more naturally when everyone is looking at their surroundings rather than a screen. Topics range from weekend plans and book recommendations to local restaurant tips. It is a low-stakes way to meet new people in the city.
How to join the movement
Getting involved requires very little preparation. Most walks are free to join and do not require advance registration. Interested walkers only need to show up at the announced meeting point with a bottle of water and a commitment to keep their phones put away.
As the summer months approach, some groups are planning indoor museum strolls and early-morning beach walks to keep the momentum going. It proves that the desire to disconnect is not just a seasonal phase, but a lifestyle shift that is here to stay.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Anti-Doomscroll Club?
The Anti-Doomscroll Club is a social movement in the UAE where members gather at designated outdoor locations to walk together for an hour or two with their mobile phones kept in their pockets.
Where do the phone-free walks take place?
While the movement started along the coastal paths of Dubai, walks now take place across scenic, pedestrian-friendly routes including the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Qana, and Yas Marina.
How much does it cost to join the Anti-Doomscroll Club?
Most walks are completely free to join and do not require any advance registration. Participants simply need to show up at the announced meeting point.
What do I need to bring to a walk?
Interested walkers only need to bring a bottle of water and a commitment to keep their phones put away for the duration of the stroll.
How will the club continue during the hot summer months?
To maintain momentum during the summer, the organizers are planning indoor museum strolls and early-morning beach walks.