UAE Solo Travel

Is the UAE Good for Solo Travel?

The UAE is known for its safety and is considered one of the safest travel destinations worldwide. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in particular, have lower crime rates, mainly due to strict law enforcement and a strong reputation for security.

• The UAE ranks 53rd out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index, showing significant improvement over recent years.
• Dubai is frequently rated as one of the safest cities globally, with strict laws contributing to its low crime rate.
• The country is also highly accommodating for solo travellers, including backpackers and singles, with plenty of options for independent exploration.

The UAE offers excellent local support, with accessible police and emergency services—dial 999 for police and ambulance and 995 for search and rescue. Communication is accessible, as English is widely spoken alongside Arabic, especially in tourist-friendly areas. While the UAE is safe overall, travellers should be aware of regional tensions and stay updated on current events when planning their trips.

Best Places to Visit in UAE

While the UAE is often seen as a group or family destination, it has numerous attractions perfect for independent travellers seeking more than just a vacation. Plenty of restaurants and eateries offer comfortable and enjoyable solo dining. Here are some of the best destinations for solo travel in the UAE:

1. Burj Khalifa

   The Burj Khalifa, the tallest man-made structure globally, is an essential stop for solo travellers. At 828 metres and 160 stories, it provides a unique view of Dubai. Visitors can relax at the Burj Khalifa Lounge or take in the sights from the open-air observation deck, 600 metres above the ground. From here, it's easy to continue to The Dubai Mall.

2. The Dubai Mall

   The Dubai Mall, ranked the 30th largest mall globally by square footage, is perfect for solo travellers passionate about shopping. It is much more than just a mall; it includes an underwater zoo, an ice rink, and various dining options. Some tourists even visit Dubai to shop at the Dubai Mall.

3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

   The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is an iconic structure. It is built with white marble and reflects the influences of Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid design. Open to Muslims and non-Muslims alike, the mosque provides a peaceful experience for solo travellers interested in architecture and culture.

4. Yas Marina Circuit

   Formula One fans, or anyone interested in motorsports, can experience the excitement of the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. It hosts races like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and allows visitors to explore the pits, grandstands, and podiums. Depending on qualifications, solo travellers can even try different car experiences on the track as drivers or passengers.

5. Museum of the Future

   Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the Museum of the Future highlights potential societal changes driven by science and technology. Solo visitors can book a guided tour to learn about futuristic advancements and capture stunning photos of this remarkable building.

6. Hatta

   Situated 130 km southeast of Dubai, Hatta is a mountain town with activities like kayaking on Hatta Lake, hiking, zorbing, and mountain biking. For solo travellers looking to step away from city life, Hatta provides a perfect setting for adventure sports in a natural environment.

7. Palm Jumeirah

   Palm Jumeirah, one of the largest man-made islands, is shaped like a palm tree. Solo visitors can try jet-skiing, kayaking, and other water sports like boat riding or exploring the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Visiting the Atlantis Hotel is also a popular activity while on the island.

8. Bur Dubai

   Bur Dubai, or Old Dubai, remains essentially unchanged by the modernisation seen in downtown Dubai. Solo travellers can take an abra ride on the creek and experience the area's traditional architecture, which contrasts sharply with the city's towering skyscrapers.

9. Qasr Al Watan

   In Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan is a working presidential palace providing insight into the UAE's history and heritage. Solo travellers can tour the grand halls and explore traditional Arabian architecture while learning about the nation's formation and legacy.

Solo Travel Advice for UAE

Travelling solo in the UAE can be very enjoyable. You can see souks, skyscrapers, and other attractions at your own pace. Here are some helpful advice to make your trip safe and enjoyable:

Solo Outdoor Activities

The UAE has plenty of outdoor adventures for solo travellers. You can skydive over Palm Jumeirah, kayak through the mangroves in Umm Al Quwain, or try the world's longest zip line in Ras Al Khaimah. Desert safaris in Abu Dhabi offer thrilling rides over the dunes. There are many solo activities, with something exciting at every turn.

Managing Commute

Getting around the UAE is straightforward. You have options like taxis, metros, buses, and trams. Taxis are suitable for short distances, and the Dubai Metro and Abu Dhabi buses are budget-friendly. Car rentals are available with an international driving permit if you like driving.

Remember that some areas near religious sites may have restrictions, so it's best to check ahead. Ride apps like Careem and Uber are also widely available and convenient.

Sharing Spaces in Hostels

Hostels are a popular choice for solo travellers. They are affordable and offer a social atmosphere. When choosing a hostel, check reviews to ensure it's safe and has essentials like secure storage, air conditioning, and common areas. Hostels are great for meeting other travellers and joining group activities.

Solo Female Travellers

The UAE is generally safe for solo female travellers, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Strict laws help keep crime rates low, so many women feel comfortable even at night. Remember to cover your head and dress modestly in certain areas to respect local customs when visiting a mosque.

Hydration

The UAE is hot year-round so dehydration can be a risk. Always carry water or another drink to stay hydrated. This is especially important during outdoor activities, as the high temperatures can be draining.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller in UAE

UAE has many accommodation facilities, from ultra-rich hotels to affordable, budget-friendly, and social hostels and shared spaces. Here are some recommended places to choose for accommodation for solo travellers:

Dubai

In Dubai, you can stay at budget-friendly hostels like Hostel Resort VIP and Papaya Backpackers, where you can meet other travellers in social spaces. You can also choose a capsule hostel in downtown Dubai or the Marine.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi provides various hostels, Airbnb houses, and mid-sized hotels. If you want to stay close to Abu Dhabi's cultural attractions, you can choose the art district of Saadiyat Island. If you are looking for cheaper options like Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre, you can choose to stay in downtown Abu Dhabi.

Sharjah

If you want to spend some time in Sharjah, the Sharjah International Airport Hotel would be the perfect place for easy travel and affordability. As the name suggests, the hotel is near the Sharjah International Airport, which makes it a prime location for travelling to different cities in the UAE.

Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai provides options for Airbnb and traditional hotels. At the Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf, you can enjoy a budget-friendly stay surrounded by conventional Arabian vibes.

Stay Options For a Solo Female Traveller

Capsule hostels like Dubai Backpackers offer an ideal solution for solo female travellers seeking a social atmosphere with privacy and security. These spaces allow you to connect with other travellers while still enjoying the privacy and safety of your capsule.

How to Get Around In the UAE

UAE transportation services include various options, including affordable taxis, premium car rentals, helicopter rides, local bus services, boats, etc. You can choose a service depending on your requirements and budget. Here are some recommended transport travel tips and advice for UAE:

City Transports

Significant cities like Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi have metro services like Dubai Metro, allowing rapid and affordable transportation to solo travellers. As a budget-friendly option, all major cities have local bus services for tourists and daily commuters.

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Service

Abu Dhabi offers a hop-on-hop-off bus that solo travellers can use to visit prearranged places in Abu Dhabi with a one or two-day ticket option.

Boats, Kayaks, and Jet Skis

If you want to travel to island cities in the UAE, you can use a variety of water transport such as boats, kayaks, or jet skis to have a unique transit experience and adventure.

Air Travel

If you are planning to travel to different emirates, you should choose domestic flight options from airlines such as Air Arabia and flydubai, which offer low-cost flights compared to some other international airlines.

Packing the Essentials for your UAE Solo Trip

While you should not have an issue when travelling in the UAE, you should have some travel essentials for your UAE itinerary:

Water Bottle

The most important thing you must carry is a water bottle, because of the harsh desert weather of the country.

Clothing

Pack light and loose clothing to keep you cool and within the UAE's modest clothing requirements. A headscarf or cap is recommended for both men and women because of the high temperatures and constant sunlight.

Travel Insurance

As Indian travellers need a pre-approved visa to travel to the UAE, travel insurance is mandatory for visiting the UAE. All travellers, whether entering or leaving the country, must have a plan that covers medical emergencies, including COVID-19, accidents, injuries, and issues like lost passports or delayed flights.

Documents

When travelling to the UAE, ensure you have your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents to avoid legal issues. The UAE provides six types of visas depending on your travel purpose:

• Tourist visa
• Transit visa
• Student visa
• Patient Entry Permit
• Patient Companion Entry Permit
• Work Permit

Visitors from countries like India and the Emirates, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, require valid travel health insurance to obtain a UAE visa.

*Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and are subject to change at the time of travel