Tips for a Solo Female Traveler Going to Dubai

Dubai is a fast-emerging international city and tourist hub that boasts opulent structures, luxurious tourist amenities and grand hotels catering to both tourists and business executives. By regional standards, it implements more liberal policies compared to other Middle Eastern cities.

Safety and Security

There may be instances that women can encounter some looks, especially if wearing clothes exposing the shoulders, thighs and mid section. But in terms of overall safety, this international tourist destination is considered one of the safest places to visit because of the visibility of policemen and security guards in almost every street.

Other than renting a car, riding taxis is the main way to get around the city. It is easy to flag down a taxi from the street and each one is clearly marked with the taxi company's name and the number of the vehicle, which should always come in handy in case you encounter any difficulty. Female travelers can also ride the pink-colored taxis or the cream-colored taxis with pink roofs. These are taxis meant for women and they are driven by women dressed in Arabic clothes.

Although it is generally fine to travel solo in Dubai, it is always better to stay in places with many people. Most streets are very lively even at night so walking around even past midnight is generally fine -- especially in tourist-driven areas. English is also considered a second language and it is easy to find people to ask around for some assistance.

Planning for the Trip

Making an advanced hotel reservation is the best option you have when traveling on your own in Dubai. Check on the amenities and nearby areas of the hotel so you can make your stay more worthwhile.

When swimming in public beaches, it is possible to get a lot of attention, especially when wearing tight-fitting clothes -- even those that are considered conservative in other countries. Choose a hotel that hosts a beach club or resort, especially if intending to wear bikinis. Staying in a beach hotel is generally better than staying in a public beach. Check on availabilities of beaches that are reserved for women and children only as you can also take advantage of these.

In cases you want to dine outside the hotel, many local restaurants have separate "Family Rooms" that are strictly for women only.

Ramadan

Ramadan, which happens for about one month in a year, imposes special rules such as no eating, drinking or smoking in public. This happens some time from September to November. If traveling for leisure and tourism, it is best to pursue a trip outside the schedule of the Ramadan.

Shopping and Recreation

Looking for tourist spots to check out around Dubai can be easily done by visiting travel sites, checking out flyers and brochures and getting more information from travel agencies. There are many heritage sites and shopping and dining establishments around the city. You can shop for just about anything including jewelries, electronics, clothes, fabrics, furniture and novelty items. Aside from resorts and beaches, the desert safari is also a popular activity for travelers visiting Dubai.

Basic Dos and Don'ts

Drinking out in the open is not customary in Dubai and alcoholic drinks are only available in certain clubs and bars. If you plan to drink, it is best to choose a hotel that hosts bars and clubs. Smoking is allowed in the city, but only in designated areas.

When walking outside, wear sunscreen and always bring drinking water to avoid dehydration. It is always best to ignore unwanted stares and unwelcome comments when encountering such issues. However, if it's too much already to the point of getting harassed, simply making a lot of noise will usually embarrass the person and the nearby police will readily notice. Sexual harassment is a serious offense in Dubai.

Exercise caution when photographing people in general. To avoid hassle, don't take photos of Muslim women, airports, docks, government buildings, telecommunications equipment and military and industrial installations anywhere in the city.