Best Ways To Meet Other Expats In Shanghai

Meeting other expats in Shanghai can be easy and fun, thanks to the city’s vibrant international community and numerous opportunities for socializing. Here are some effective ways to connect with other expats:

1. WeChat Groups

• Join Expat WeChat Groups: WeChat is the primary social app in China, and many expats use it to stay connected. There are WeChat groups for just about everything, from general expat groups to niche interest groups like sports, dining, travel, and business networking.
• Expat Forum Groups: Search for expat-focused forums like Shanghai Expat, Expats in Shanghai, or Shanghai Mamas if you have a family. You can join by scanning QR codes shared online or by being invited by other members.

2. Attend Social Events

• Internations Shanghai: A global network for expats, Internations regularly hosts events for networking, dining, and cultural experiences. They cater to professionals and offer a relaxed way to meet people from all over the world.
• Expat Bar Nights: Popular expat bars like The Camel, Bar Rouge, and The Rooster frequently organize themed nights and happy hours for the international crowd. Many expats unwind here, making it easy to strike up conversations.
• Trivia Nights: Some expat bars also host trivia nights, like The Blind Pig and The Shed. These are fun, casual events where you can meet people in a relaxed setting.

3. Networking Platforms

• LinkedIn Local Events: Shanghai has a strong international business community, and LinkedIn often organizes “LinkedIn Local” meetups. These events are perfect for meeting other professionals.
• Meetup.com: This platform is widely used by expats to create and join events based on shared interests. You can find meetups for hiking, food lovers, language exchange, or book clubs.

4. Language Exchange Groups

• Language Exchange Cafes: Places like Yuyu Café and Coffee & Language Exchange host regular language exchange events. These are fantastic for meeting locals and expats alike, all while improving your Mandarin or helping others with English.

5. Expat Sports Leagues

• Shanghai International Football League (SIFL): If you’re into soccer, joining a league like SIFL is a great way to meet expats while staying active.
• Running and Cycling Clubs: Groups like Shanghai Hash House Harriers or Shanghai Spinners (for cycling) bring together fitness enthusiasts and are always open to new members.
• Ultimate Frisbee and Rugby Clubs: For a different take on sports, expat rugby and ultimate frisbee clubs in Shanghai offer team-building fun with regular matches and social gatherings afterward.

6. Volunteering and Charity Events

• Giving Back: Organizations like HandsOn Shanghai and Rotary Club of Shanghai often have volunteering opportunities and charity events that attract many expats. It’s a rewarding way to meet people who share your values.

7. International Schools and Parent Groups

• Expat Parents’ Groups: If you have kids, getting involved in parent-teacher associations at international schools or joining expat parent groups like Shanghai Mamas can help you connect with other expat families.

8. Professional Networking

• Chambers of Commerce: Many countries have local chambers of commerce in Shanghai, such as the American Chamber of Commerce, British Chamber, or European Union Chamber. These organizations often host events and mixers that help expats network in professional settings.
• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Shanghai is a major hub for business and trade, so attending industry events or business forums can also provide an opportunity to meet like-minded expats.

9. Social Clubs and Hobbies

• Shanghai Supperclub: A social dining group that brings together locals and expats for themed dinners.
• Book Clubs: If you’re a reader, joining a local or expat book club is a low-pressure way to meet people and engage in stimulating conversations.

10. Social Apps

• Tinder/Bumble: These apps aren’t just for dating — many expats use them to meet new people, especially when they’re new to the city.
• Tantan: A local dating app also used by expats and locals for making new friends.

By exploring these avenues, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet other expats and expand your social circle in Shanghai!

Written by Shanghai Mistress Alessandra