Rising Trend of Divorce Recovery Camps for Women in Dubai

Support and Healing for Divorced Women in the UAE: Rafia Afi's "Break Free Stories"

Rafia Afi, a content creator in India, has launched a unique initiative called "Break Free Stories" that offers healing camps for women who have experienced divorce, separation, or widowhood. The first UAE camp was held in Dubai on July 19-20, 2025, and marked the expansion of this initiative from its original base in Kerala, India.

The two-day event, held at Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport, Al Qusais, brought together about 10 women who shared experiences, healed, and built a supportive community without judgment. Activities included story-sharing, games, dancing, and bonding sessions, aiming to create a healing and positive environment.

Rafia Afi, who went through a divorce herself about nine months prior, started these camps to normalize divorce and provide emotional relief and empowerment to women dealing with stigma and loneliness after separation. She recognized the need for a support system during such times and aimed to fill this gap with her initiative.

One of the attendees, Surya, a Sharjah resident, shared her harrowing experiences from her marriage, including physical and sexual abuse, and her struggle with clinical depression after filing for divorce. Surya's ex-husband lived in Dubai, and she was shuttled between Kerala and the UAE out of fear. The camp provided her with a safe, non-judgmental space to share her experiences and find comfort in the sisterhood of other women going through similar challenges.

The women bonded through fun games and two-hour chats by the pool, creating an active WhatsApp group and vowing to meet up often. One participant, who was unsure about proceeding with her divorce, found the camp cathartic and decided to move forward with it. Another participant, who didn't have swimwear, was offered clothes by a fellow attendee.

Shifna, a Dubai resident who separated from her husband four months ago, also found the camp helpful for her mental health. The women exchanged handwritten notes and hugs before leaving, their energy reminiscent of college days. Surya, who moved to Sharjah in 2019 and found a job within three months, expressed her gratitude for the camp, saying it significantly improved her life.

Rafia Afi's "Break Free Stories" camps are held occasionally, and following her social media channels or her online platforms would provide updates on upcoming events. This initiative is among the first of its kind in the UAE and offers a safe, non-judgmental space for women overcoming the challenges of divorce in a culturally sensitive environment.

Rafia Afi's "Break Free Stories" initiative offers healing camps not only for divorced women but also for those experiencing separation or widowhood.
These camps aim to provide emotional relief, empowerment, and a sense of community to women who might be feeling stigma and loneliness due to their situations.
In addition to story-sharing and bonding sessions, these events include various activities such as games, dancing, and even fun activities like pool chats.
The camps are not limited to one location and have already expanded from their original base in Kerala, India, to Dubai, UAE.
Apart from emotional support, these camps also offer practical advice and tips for women's health and wellness, including mental health, skin care, and sexual health.
The camps also provide a great opportunity for women to learn about different therapies and treatments that can aid in their healing process.
The camps are also beneficial for family health, as they provide a safe space for women to discuss and address issues that might affect their family dynamics.
For anyone interested in joining these camps or getting updates on upcoming events, following Rafia Afi's social media channels or online platforms is recommended.
These camps can also have a positive impact on lifestyle, as women often find a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm after participating.
Fashion and beauty tips, workplace-wellness advice, and home-and-garden advice are also often shared among the participants during the camps, contributing to a holistic approach to personal growth and development.