Is Dubai Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Dubai, is largely safe for solo female travelers. The city is one of the safest in the Middle East due to strict laws that are heavily enforced. Petty crime rates are considerably low and violent crime is rare. However, it's still a good idea to exercise common caution and aware of local customs and laws. It's especially important to respect local dress codes and public behavior regulations to avoid any unnecessary attention or issues.

Safety rating

4.9 /5

Based on 24 experiences

4.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

Safety at night:Safe

Dubai is recognized as a safe destination for solo female travelers, even at night. It has strict laws and highly effective law enforcement that together discourage crime. Street lighting is excellent and the city is well-monitored with security cameras. However, cultural norms regarding dress and behavior are different than in Western countries. While walking alone at night, it's important to respect these norms, stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense to avoid potential discomfort.

Public transportation: Very safe

Dubai is renowned as one of the safest cities in the world. Public transportation, including buses, trams, and Dubai Metro, are highly secure with well-maintained infrastructure, CCTV surveillance and very rare instances of crime. Women-only sections in trains are also available, which promotes further safety and comfort. Hence, the journey is generally very safe for solo female travelers whist using public transportation in Dubai.

Street harassment: Low

Dubai, being a popular global city, maintains a good level of safety measures. The local law enforcement is quite strict about public etiquettes and ensuring the safety of all visitors, especially women. Occasional instances of staring or unwanted attention can, however, occur especially in the more traditional areas. Despite these, most areas in Dubai are relatively free from street harassment, particularly in the city centers where the majority of tourists and expatriates stay.

Petty crimes:Low

Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, is considered one of the safest cities in the world. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse-snatching are typically low in comparison to other global cities. However, as with any major city, it's always advised to stay vigilant, mindful of your belongings and avoid less crowded areas especially during late hours. Dubai police are very efficient and responsive which adds to the secure environment.

Tap water:Safe

Dubai's tap water undergoes a treatment process which includes desalinization and filtration, making it safe to drink. However, locals and travelers often prefer to drink bottled water due to concerns about the taste and quality of the tap water, which can be affected by the condition of the plumbing in certain buildings.

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Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 24 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.9/5

Food

4/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Group travel experience

Dubai is a very lovely vacation spot. Took a a few days for me to get used to the heat but I enjoyed my stay. I stayed at the first collection JVC and later moved with friends to Rove Hotel around the Marina axis to be able to have access to all the fun places. The food was ok and the view Amazing from my hotel room. Jet ski, target range, and the dessert safari were my favorite activities. I will surely visit another time

Posted: November 19, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Family travel experience

Holiday in dubai several times great weather in the winter months, so much to do and now live here. Great attractions, beaches and food. Dubai has some amazing places to eat, relax and enjoy breath taking views. Best sunsets

Posted: November 11, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Hilma

Hilma (26)

Namibia

Solo travel experience

What can I say about Dubai? The most amazing city in the world! I felt safe and I used to take night walks along Dubai Marina Walk alone. It was so beautiful and I cannot wait to go back soon. Do no skip a boat ride in Dubai Marina. As cheap as AED 100 for 2 hours.

Posted: November 10, 2023Experienced: November, 2017
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I couldn’t wait to leave. It is definitely a very safe, but boring city. I like to travel to experience culture and meet people but everyone I interacted with was not Emirati, but foreign workers. The only thing I liked was the Dubai museum, which is small, but informative. Everything else was man-made and fake.

Posted: October 11, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I loved Dubai. Have been twice and would do it again. I never felt unsafe. I did a Bedouin desert tour, went up in the Burj Khalifa, watched the musical fountain in front, snow skiing in the world's largest mall, visited the world's largest flower garden and the world's largest butterfly garden, took a water taxi to Old Dubai to the spice market, went up in The Frame and visited the Etihad Museum.

Posted: October 9, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Dubai is super safe for a woman. I walked at night and felt very safe, there were even taxis (Pink Taxis) which are exclusively for women only. There’s so much to see and do, an epic experience, and highly recommend it. My highlights were the Burj Khalifa, Dancing Fountain, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and skydiving at Skydive Dubai.

Posted: August 9, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went to Dubai by myself. I really loved the place, it’s safe and doable for a solo traveler. Did a desert safari, went up to the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and ate a lot of food. I had an amazing time.

Posted: August 8, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went to Dubai alone and had a wonderful time. It is very modern with lots of travelers. I signed up for several fun tours that I did with others. I did a boat tour of the city and also did a desert safari which was epic. I felt very safe the whole time.

Posted: May 29, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Couple travel experience

Interesting Dubai, mix of culture and modern - went to see the Burj Kahlifa, Abu Dhabi, the desert and the local souk. Enjoyed some great food in beautiful places. I went with my partner, visiting friends, and we had a great time

Posted: May 17, 2023Experienced: February, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Dubai last year alone and it’s the safest I’ve ever felt, even at night I had no problem walking around the marina at 11 pm - I used Kareem which is their version of Uber and everyone was super polite and helpful.

Posted: May 13, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Local experiences

I live in Dubai and honestly love it as a woman, we’re so respected. There are some people who stare but you know that you are safe. Even when I go clubbing there are never issues getting taxis, drinking, or wearing whatever I want.

Posted: October 1, 2023
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We have a metro system that runs along the main road that dissects the city (Sheikh Zayed Road). The suburb where the Museum of the Future is located is predominantly a business district. We’re not a massive walking city, but are seeing improvements on this with walking tracks starting to pop up. I’d recommend accommodation in either Downtown, Marina or the Palm (although downtown is literally two stops on the metro from the museum). Taxis are ridiculously cheap also.

Posted: November 27, 2022
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Meet locals in Dubai

Rashmi

Rashmi

Speaking

About Me

Happy go lucky soul who loves to explore and enjoy life as it comes! I love to eat to my heart's content - no compromise on that 😋 Dancing is my preferred choice of workout. Cows have a special place in my heart ♥️

Countries I’ve Visited

🇨🇳 China, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇫🇷 France, 🇬🇪 Georgia, 🇮🇳 India, 🇯🇴 Jordan, 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan, 🇴🇲 Oman, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇻🇳 Vietnam

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Alyn

Alyn

Speaking

About Me

A lady with easy smile, who works hard and play harder. like to meet new people, share histories enjoying nice food and drinks. My Instagram: @alynsan

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇮🇱 Israel, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, 🇵🇾 Paraguay, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇻🇦 Vatican City

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Priscila

Priscila

Speaking

About Me

I'm a dancer from Colombia, I'm 26 years old, newly arrived in Dubai. I love meeting new people and spotting new places with historical background and the greenery.

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Wardah🌼

Wardah🌼

Speaking

About Me

Greetings. My name is Wardah, which is the direct translation for flower in Arabic🌼. IG: wardatipetersen Born and bred in lushes Cape Town. Always keen for a Forrest and Ocean adventure as it reminds me of home. I’m currently residing in Dubai and happy to show anyone around - including my favourite spots. Generally I choose locations based on music. I’m a 90s kid so music is what gets me going. I listen to anything from ethnic/ oriental electronic music to soft rock/ blues. Also love thrifting and markets. Solo traveler who is open minded and not afraid to get down and dirty🧗‍♀️🏕️. Wasn’t able to travel when I was younger, so the time is now and ready to see what the universe has to offer ✨

Countries I’ve Visited

🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

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Tanvi

Tanvi

Speaking

About Me

29 year old woman who’s reached a crossroads of “what next”. I believe that I have a higher purpose and sitting at home is really limiting my ability to make a difference.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇮🇳 India, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇲🇻 Maldives, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇺🇬 Uganda, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇨🇭 Switzerland

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Passant

Passant

Speaking

About Me

Hey, My name is Passant and I'm interested in art, business, cinema, culture, dancing, fashion, food & cuisine, games, shopping and sightseeing

Countries I’ve Visited

🇪🇬 Egypt

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Xieri

Xieri

Speaking

About Me

I'm quirky, fun, outdoorsy, friendly, introvert at times...love's nature and meeting people

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇲 Armenia, 🇬🇪 Georgia, 🇶🇦 Qatar, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇴🇲 Oman, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇲🇻 Maldives, 🇮🇷 Iran

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NOOR

NOOR

Speaking

About Me

I am noor fathima am a positive mentality person I will mingle easily

Countries I’ve Visited

🇮🇳 India

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Sarah

Sarah

About Me

Single mum with teenage children beginning her solo travelling experience

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Stay with locals in Dubai

Alyn

Alyn

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

A lady with easy smile, who works hard and play harder. like to meet new people, share histories enjoying nice food and drinks. My Instagram: @alynsan

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇮🇱 Israel, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, 🇵🇾 Paraguay, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇻🇦 Vatican City

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Shamma

Shamma

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Hello My name is Shamma ,And i live in UAE. Im 35 years old and i love to travel solo and meet people! I love foood especially Thai, Japanese and Indian food 😍 i love spicy food!

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Ivy

Ivy

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I’m Ivy and I like traveling, may it be, solo, with friends or family but I think, I enjoy solo traveling more as it allows me to discover more about myself and it really is, a unique experience. I don’t know about you, but it feels more empowering and liberating to me and the possibilities are endless. I’m planning a trip to Italy and Croatia in June and I would love to find a travel buddy for a change. Hope to meet you on one of my trips :) Cheers!

Countries I’ve Visited

🇦🇹 Austria, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇫🇷 France, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇰🇷 South Korea, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇭🇰 Hong Kong, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇱 Israel

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Upcoming visitors to Dubai

Zayera

Zayera

Speaking

About Me

Explorer, traveler, interested in nature, wildlife. Like being with locals and experiencing life as locals when I am traveling. Living in Sweden and happy to show you around if you visit Stockholm.

Countries I’ve Visited

🇧🇪 Belgium, 🇧🇷 Brazil, 🇧🇼 Botswana, 🇰🇭 Cambodia, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇨🇳 China, 🇭🇷 Croatia, 🇩🇰 Denmark, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇪🇹 Ethiopia, 🇫🇮 Finland, 🇫🇷 France, 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇬🇲 Gambia, 🇭🇺 Hungary, 🇮🇸 Iceland, 🇮🇳 India, 🇮🇷 Iran, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇲🇷 Mauritania, 🇲🇳 Mongolia, 🇲🇿 Mozambique, 🇳🇦 Namibia, 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇳🇴 Norway, 🇵🇰 Pakistan, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇵🇹 Portugal, 🇵🇱 Poland, 🇷🇺 Russia, 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia, 🇸🇨 Seychelles, 🇷🇸 Serbia, 🇸🇳 Senegal, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka, 🇪🇸 Spain, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇹🇿 Tanzania, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇺🇾 Uruguay, 🇻🇦 Vatican City, 🇿🇲 Zambia, 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇧🇾 Belarus, 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina, 🇨🇿 Czech Republic, 🇪🇪 Estonia, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇱🇻 Latvia, 🇱🇹 Lithuania, 🇲🇦 Morocco

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Safety in United Arab Emirates