Question 1

Is Dubai a safe holiday destination?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is very safe – in fact, it has been named the world’s second safest city in 2024, according to the global database Numbeo. Strict laws are in place to protect everyone, so you can enjoy a stress-free and fun-filled family holiday in the city any time of the year.

Question 2

Is it safe to walk around at night in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

It is safe. In 2021, a study by Gallup’s Global Law and Order report named the UAE the safest country in the world to walk around at night, with 95 per cent of residents saying they felt secure. Nonetheless, it’s always advisable to remain alert by sticking to more populated areas and having a clear route to follow.

Question 3

How safe is Dubai for women?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is one of the safest places to visit for women. A 2025 report by insurance website InsureMyTrip listed Dubai as the world’s safest city for solo female tourists to visit. Safety and security of all visitors and residents is a top priority in the UAE, and according to Gallup’s Global Law and Order report in 2024, 90% of residents have said they feel safe walking alone at night, making it the 12th safest country in the world. Public transport facilities also have services exclusively for women, such as Dubai Metro cabins reserved for women and child travellers, and taxis with female drivers.

Question 4

Are public displays of affection allowed in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

A simple act of affection such as holding hands or hugging a loved one is fine. However, excessive public displays of affection are not allowed in Dubai. It's best to consider the people around you in a public place such as a mall, beach or restaurant, and behave accordingly.

Question 5

Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol is available in Dubai in licensed establishments. Tourists and residents over the age of 21 can drink alcohol at licensed venues in Dubai, such as hotels and restaurants, as well as dedicated lounges. However there is a zero-tolerance policy for drunken behaviour and drink-driving, so visitors and residents are expected to be responsible.

Question 6

Is anything prohibited in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is an open-minded and tolerant society where people from all over the world live harmoniously and respectfully. As with any destination, residents and tourists must abide by the local laws. It is important to note that the moral code is stricter in the United Arab Emirates than in some parts of the world. For example, it is prohibited to drink alcohol in public places other than licensed hotels and their restaurants, as well as in dedicated lounges. Furthermore, excessive public displays of affection are not allowed. The UAE has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is widely recognised as being one of the safest places to live, work and visit.

Question 7

Is Dubai safe at night?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dubai is safe at night, and the safety of all residents and visitors is taken very seriously here. Along with other emirates in the UAE, Dubai ranked in the top 10 safest cities in the world on the Numbeo Safety Index 2022. Moreover, the city has a late-night culture, so you'll find that most areas are still busy after dark. Many places, including restaurants and venues for activities in Dubai, are open well past 10pm, with residents – even families – out late, especially on the weekends. City hubs are well lit too, and travellers have easy access to helplines, patrolling police cars and satellite police stations, should they need it.

Question 8

What items are not allowed in Dubai Airports?

Accepted Answer

Similar to all airports worldwide, there are restrictions in place to ensure safety of all travellers passing through the city. Dubai Customs regulates what items are allowed into the emirate and detail this in their passenger guide, which is updated regularly. Typical contraband include narcotics, flammable liquids, sharp items, certain foods, boycotted goods and medications. Passengers are advised to ensure that their baggage meets the requirements of the Dubai Airports and UAE authorities. For more information, check with your travel agents in Dubai or visit the Emirates' Dangerous Good Policy information as well as Dubai Customs.

Question 9

Are desert safaris in Dubai safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, desert safaris in Dubai are very safe when you use one of the city's reputable tour operators. All desert safari drivers are specially trained for driving on the dunes, and the vehicles and tyres used are also designed for desert driving (you'll see the drivers adjust the air pressure of the vehicle's tyres before you head out into the sand, to make them more suitable for the soft driving surface).

Because driving in the desert requires special skills and equipment, you should never attempt it yourself – as you run the risk of getting stuck or worse. If you want to try your hand at self-drive desert experiences, then consider hiring a dune buggy or quad-bike: the operator will give you all the necessary training and safety equipment before you get behind the wheel.

Depending on the exact package and operator, some desert safaris may not be suitable for young infants, as the ride through the dunes can be quite bumpy. If you want to bring an infant with you, get in touch with the tour operator before booking to check their individual requirements. Some of Dubai's best desert safari operators include Platinum Heritage, Arabian Adventures and Oasis Adventures, part of Sharaf Travel.

Safety in Dubai

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Safety in Dubai

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