Is Abu Dhabi Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Abu Dhabi has a relatively safe environment for solo female travelers. Emirati culture prioritizes respect and safety, which largely extends to visitors as well. Strict laws also help maintain orderly conduct, and crime rates are lower compared to global averages. However, it is vital to respect local customs and dress code. As a solo female traveler, it's smart to avoid isolated areas during night hours.

Safety rating

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How safe is Abu Dhabi?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Very safe

Abu Dhabi, as part of the United Arab Emirates, is extremely safe at night even for solo female travellers. The city is known for being vigilant about security and safety measures, and maintains a low crime rate. Even in the hours of the night, you can comfortably walk around and use public transport. Always remembering, though, to respect the local culture and customs. Street lights are abundant and pathways well-maintained. Law enforcement is present and vigilant, adding to the feeling of safety.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Abu Dhabi is generally safe, reliable, and efficient. Abu Dhabi offers a variety of public transportation options such as buses, taxis, and a rapid transit system. Buses are air-conditioned, clean, and run on time, and taxis are regulated, plentiful, and metered. Conductors and drivers are usually helpful, and security measures are in place. However, just like in any other city, it is important to stay cautious, especially during late-night travels.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Very low

Abu Dhabi is widely regarded as a safe city for women to travel or live in. Street harassment is quite rare due to the United Arab Emirates' strict laws against harassment and public behavior. The residents, both locals and foreigners, generally demonstrate a high level of respect towards women. However, like any location, it's always best to remain vigilant and maintain an awareness of your surroundings.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Abu Dhabi has a very low level of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. The law enforcement authorities in the city are highly efficient and strict, which deters most of the crime. As a result, it's generally considered very safe for solo female travelers. However, it's still important to take basic precautions like always keeping your belongings within sight and avoiding deserted areas during late night.

Is Abu Dhabi worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

3/5

Budget-friendly

3.1/5
Elena

Elena

Russia

Group travel

I visited Abu Dhabi last March with my friend 🇦🇪 We stayed in “Traders Hotel” - it’s a 4 stars hotel on first coastline. We visited Yas Island for few times. I really recommend to visit there karting, Ferrari Park and Yas Waterworld. We had a lot of fun there! Also I can recommend Yas Marina Circut - they have only women days for entrance, so it feels more comfortable and safety even at night time. It was very hot there, so I can recommend you keep the walks for the evenings and use a good sunscreen! Don’t use very open clothes, not only for respecting the culture, but also for the protection of sun. Our breakfasts were included in our hotel reservation, so I can’t really recommend any good places. But fast food prices in the mall were definitely higher than in Moscow. We used taxi and public transport for moving in the city. Be ready - you can’t pay for public transport by card or cash, you have to buy a special transport card Hafilat, you can find it in the airport. I was enjoined my time in Abu Dhabi - sunny, clean and safe city. I’d love to come back there!

Posted: May 8, 2025Experienced: February, 2024
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Nastya

Nastya

Russia

Group travel

I was feeling safe during all the trip. You really need to visit Yas Marina Island: waterworld, karting, Yas formula one circuit, Ferrari world. By the way, only women can walk on the track for free. And there are discounts for women at the karting. The local food is not very tasty but there are lots of restaurants where you can eat. About money — I’ve spent about 1200 dollars I was staying at a very nice hotel called Traders Hotel, 4 stars I was traveling with my best female friend and we were talking a taxi or a bus

Posted: May 8, 2025
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Family travel

Abu Dhabi has to be the safest city I've ever been to! Left my wallet in a park and drove somewhere else. Came back to find it intact exactly where I left it more than 1 hr later! The food was also amazing and verrrrryy international. The weather in August is extremely hot outside. Either stay indoors or don't travel at that time. UAE is generally much better in the winter.

Posted: April 12, 2025Experienced: July, 2024
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Is Abu Dhabi safe for women?

Safety index

4.6 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

Crime index

1.3 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

Sabina

Sabina

I will say it’s the safest place. I can walk mid night alone, no issues but being a women yes people might approach you with another intention when they see you alone but once you refuse they go on their own way.

Posted: May 11, 2025
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Meet locals in Abu Dhabi

Sabina

Sabina

About Me

Hi everyone! I’m a 25-year-old solo traveler from Nepal, currently living and working as an assistant nurse in the UAE. I recently returned from an amazing solo trip to Thailand, where I challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone and experience new adventures. I love exploring new places, especially where I can enjoy nature, local culture, and a bit of adventure. Although I can be a bit shy at first, I’m always eager to meet new people and share stories. I’m passionate about self-growth and trying things that push me beyond my limits. I’m looking forward to connecting with like-minded women, sharing travel tips, and hopefully planning some exciting trips together!

Speaking

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Cuca

Cuca

About Me

Big fan of aiport vibes and trying to collect as many passport stamps as possible. I'd like to say im someone,chill, reliable, caring and up for anything I like slow mornings, and chaotic nights. Can't resist saying "yes" to random adventures so If you’re chill, funny, or just have good music taste, we’ll probably vibe.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Abu Dhabi

Cuca

Cuca

Abu Dhabi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Big fan of aiport vibes and trying to collect as many passport stamps as possible. I'd like to say im someone,chill, reliable, caring and up for anything I like slow mornings, and chaotic nights. Can't resist saying "yes" to random adventures so If you’re chill, funny, or just have good music taste, we’ll probably vibe.

Speaking

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Safety in United Arab Emirates