Is Urumqi safe for solo female travelers?

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, is a city where safety varies. The city sees a heavy police presence, minimizing the risk of petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing. However, it's important to note that this region has occasional ethnic tensions, which can escalate unpredictably. As a solo female traveler, it's advisable to respect local customs and not to venture out alone late at night. Public transportation is reliable, but English is rarely spoken, which may pose challenges. It's essential to plan ahead, have the address of your destination written in Chinese, and stick to populated areas.