Is Dubai Safe For Americans And Westerners?
Safety is often the first concern when traveling somewhere new, and Dubai is no exception.
From my own experience of visiting Dubai many times, including living there for a month, I can say yes, Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. Still, it’s important to understand the laws, culture, and areas to avoid so you can travel with confidence.
In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about safety in Dubai, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a woman exploring on your own.
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Is Dubai Safe To Visit?
Yes, Dubai is safe for Americans and Westerners. In fact, many expats from the US and Europe live here, and Dubai consistently ranks among the safest cities in the world.
According to Numbeo, Dubai was the 7th safest city in 2023 and has moved up to number 4 in 2024 and 2025. From my own experience, Dubai feels safer than most cities in the USA or Europe.
Strict laws, heavy surveillance, and strong penalties keep crime low. The only real risks come from not respecting local rules.
Crime in Dubai
Crime exists everywhere, but in Dubai, it’s much lower than in many Western cities. Most residents are expats on work or residence visas, and anyone caught committing a crime faces fines, prison, and deportation.
What this means for you: you can feel comfortable walking around, even at night, and relaxing in public spaces. If you lose something, many times you’ll find it in the same place even after a few hours. A situation that would be unlikely in the USA or Europe.
At the beach, of course, don’t take valuables with you, and don’t leave your bag completely unattended. I usually go swimming and leave my bag on the shore while keeping an eye on it from the water, and it’s always been safe.
Another difference from many Western cities is that you won’t see homeless people or visible drug addicts, thanks to Dubai’s strict visa and residency system.
Weather and natural risks
Dubai doesn’t face earthquakes or hurricanes, but the desert climate brings its own challenges. As the climate is changing, we can’t predict what will happen in the future.
The things you need to be careful about are:
- Extreme heat – Summer temperatures can reach 50°C (120°F). Use sunscreen, drink water, and limit time outdoors.
- Sea currents – Stay close to shore when swimming. Lifeguards are present on most public beaches.
- Sandstorms – More common in winter. If you must go out, cover your face and eyes.
- Rain and flooding – Rare but increasing in recent years. Heavy downpours can cause temporary road closures.
Terrorism Risk in Dubai
Dubai and the UAE are generally safe from terrorism, and attacks are very unlikely.
However, there have recently been threats targeting Jewish and Israeli communities in the country. Tourists should exercise caution and avoid these communities for safety reasons.
It’s always a good idea to check your government’s travel advisories before your trip for the latest updates.
The government’s law
Dubai’s strict laws are what make it safe, but they also mean you need to be mindful:
- Dress code – Women don’t need to cover their hair, but dress modestly in malls and restaurants. Shorts and sleeveless tops are fine outdoors. Men should avoid going shirtless in public.
- Alcohol. Only drink in licensed venues. Public drunkenness is not tolerated. Never drink and drive.
- Public behavior – No swearing, rude gestures, or public displays of affection. Holding hands is fine. Avoid insulting or speaking negatively about the government or royal family.
- Drugs – Zero tolerance. Even small amounts can mean prison.
- Public transport – No eating, drinking, or chewing gum
- Photography – Avoid government buildings. Ask permission before photographing people.
Getting around Dubai
Dubai is not very walkable, so you’ll rely on cars or public transport.
- Driving – Roads are wide and busy. Cameras enforce speeding laws, and penalties are strict. If you’re confident, renting a car is fine. I heard people saying that the roads in Dubai are dangerous, and drivers are speeding and don’t stop for pedestrians. I would say this is not true. Maybe some drivers don’t follow the speed limit, but I found drivers always stop at crossings for pedestrians, which is not the case in some Western countries.
- Taxis – Safe and widely available. Don’t get into a very friendly conversation with a driver if you are a woman and sit in the back seat. Alternatively, women can choose pink-roof taxis driven by female drivers.
- Uber and Careem – Both available, with Careem being cheaper than Uber.
- Public transport – The metro, buses, and trams are clean and safe, even at night.
Safety for women
As a woman, I’ve always felt safer in Dubai than in my home country. The city has women-only metro carriages, women-driven taxis, and even separate queues in some places.
However, as a woman, you should be careful about a few things.
- There are more men than women living in Dubai, and as it is a Muslim country, sex before marriage is not allowed. So some men may try to take advantage of you as a Westerner.
Be careful when you make contact with men, especially in bars and nightclubs
Always watch your drinks.
You may get offered money or expensive things, but they will not be for free.
Safety for LGBTQ travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Dubai. While LGBTQ travelers can visit, it’s important to avoid public displays of affection. Even heterosexual couples are expected to follow this rule.
Safety for solo travelers
Are solo travelers safe in Dubai? I heard this question so many times. Therefore, I would like to emphasize that you are much safer alone in Dubai than anywhere else in the world.
As Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with strict rules and cameras all over, you are perfectly safe here exploring on your own.
I also visited Dubai as a solo female traveler, and I always felt comfortable going out, meeting people, and discovering the city.
Safety for families
Dubai is extremely family-friendly. With parks, beaches, and attractions like waterparks and theme parks, it’s a great destination for kids of all ages.
Many Western families not only vacation here but also live in Dubai long-term.
Safest places and areas to avoid in Dubai
Areas to avoid:
- Sonapur – A labor camp area near the airport, not a place for tourists.
- Deira is an area not to completely avoid, as it is the old part of the city where souks and nice hotels are located, but do not wander around at night, especially if you are a woman.
Safe and popular areas:
- Dubai Marina – is my favorite area in Dubai. You can walk next to the water where yachts park, there are restaurants, cafes, Marina Mall, and even small playgrounds where kids can play. This is the best place to spend your evenings.
- JBR – Except for hotels and private apartments in skyscrapers, you will find a promenade with shops, restaurants, cafes, playgrounds, and JBR Beach here. This is a great area for couples and families to spend days and evenings.
- Downtown – where the iconic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are located. Even here, you have a lot of opportunities for shopping, enjoying dinner, coffee, shisha, and watching the Dubai Fountain in the evening. If you want to stay Downtown, choose from the best hotels near the Dubai Mall here.
Is Dubai Safe For Tourists?: FAQs
After reading my detailed article about safety in Dubai for Americans and Westerners, you must know that Dubai is very safe. However, here are some answers to more questions you may have.
Is Dubai safer than the USA?
Yes. With strict laws, no public drugs or guns, and mandatory visas, Dubai is generally much safer.
Is it safe to walk at night in Dubai?
Yes, walking at night in Dubai is safe. However, don’t forget to respect the culture, dress appropriately as a woman, and do not walk in hidden streets.
Is Abu Dhabi safe?
Yes, Numbeo ranks Abu Dhabi as the number one safest city in the world.
Want more tips and real-life advice about visiting Dubai safely? Join my free Facebook group, I Love To Visit Dubai. where I share insider tips, answer questions, and connect with fellow travelers.
When planning your trip, check my recommended travel resources
➡️For booking tours use GetYourGuide or Viator
➡️Search for accommodation with Booking or Expedia
➡️Stay connected with Airalo eSIM
➡️Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups
➡️Find the cheapest flight with the WayAway flight aggregator
➡️Don’t forget about insurance SafetyWing
You may want to check:
Best Areas To Stay In Dubai For Tourists (With Map!)
When Is The Worst Time To Visit Dubai? (From A Frequent Visitor)
Can Anyone Enter Burj Khalifa And Burj Al Arab?
