Solo Travel in Dubai

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Adventure GatG, Beach GatG, Shopping GatG

If you are looking for a safe destination in the Middle East, Dubai is the place to go to. I love it so much that I have now made this Emirate my home. If you are planning a solo trip to Dubai, this guide for Dubai solo travel includes my recommended things to do in Dubai alone (there is so much to do here!) where to stay if you’re solo and how to get around the city.

I’ve also included how to get from the airport (it’s super easy!) and a recommended itinerary for a Dubai solo female traveller to help you to plan your trip. I hope that this article inspires you to solo female travel Dubai!

N.b. If you book your Dubai tours or accommodation for your Dubai solo trip through this article, I donate to organisations helping vulnerable girls in conflict zones. Thanks for helping. Lisa x

Contents

• About Dubai
• Dubai Tours
• Where To Stay in Dubai
• Getting Around Dubai
• Itinerary for Dubai
• Travel Guide To Dubai
• What To Pack For Dubai
• Best Time To Go To Dubai
• Travel Insurance For Dubai
• Airports in Dubai
• Questions about Dubai
• Map of Dubai
• Plan a Trip to Dubai
• Related Posts

The world-famous Burj al Arab

Solo Travel To Dubai

Travelling solo in Dubai is easy. That’s why I’ve given it 5 out of 5 stars. It’s safe, easy to get around and there is so much to see and do for solo travellers. 

Traveling to Dubai as a woman has changed so much over the last decade. You don’t even need to cover up here anymore as women wear everything and anything. On the beach you wouldn’t even think that you are in the Middle East. You’ll find little black dresses as well as women covered up too. Generally, anything goes within the hotels where you can drink alcohol and party until dawn. I suggest covering up a bit when you are in the malls and on public transport. 

You won’t feel awkward being alone here and especially not dining alone. Dubai has a fantastic tourism infrastructure with a cheap metro system, affordable taxis and plenty of tours that you can join solo. I love Dubai for solos so much that I moved here alone! 

Is Dubai safe for solo female travellers?

One big question that you probably have before you travel here is “Is Dubai safe for solo female travellers?” The answer is a resounding Yes. Dubai is one of the safest countries in the world! It is a cosmopolitan country with many nationalities and it’s changed so much in the last few years.

You can walk along the streets at night, leave your laptop on a table and if you lose your purse in a taxi, you will definitely get it back! It’s a really comfortable city where you don’t need to be vigilant. 

Dubai at night. View of the Burj Khalifa from C’est La Vie

About Dubai

Travel to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, and you’ll discover gorgeous beaches, futuristic skyscrapers and year-round sunshine. Since the discovery of oil here in the 1960’s, Dubai has barely stopped building. Anything the rest of the world can do, Dubai tries to do it better.

From the world’s tallest building to man-made islands shaped like the world, this millionaire’s playground has everything and is scattered with pyramids, giant aquariums, a palm island, and the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East (Ski Dubai is found in the Mall of Emirates). It literally has all the tourist places you could ever need.

This Emirate is unique and brimming with first-class hotels but there is accommodation to be found for those on a more modest budget. Discover my recommended places to go alone in Dubai below. 

TIP – If you are planning things to do alone in Dubai, consider purchasing a Dubai Pass. Save money on the top attractions including the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. 

The Palm from ‘The View’

Shopping Girl about the Globe

This Emirate state oozes opulence, (even the airport has sparkling diamond columns). And obviously, one of the top things to do in Dubai is shop. The shopping is amazing and you could spend a week just browsing the high street and designer stores. From Dubai Festival Mall to the Mall of the Emirates, or the themed wonder of Ibn Battuta Mall, there’s a variety of high street and designer stores to browse and window shop. 

Dubai is mainly known for its gold, and gold souks can be found in the malls or the Deira district. From Dubai Festival Mall to Mall of the Emirates, or Ibn Battuta Mall (the largest themed mall in Dubai), discover the best place to shop in Dubai.

It’s not just fashion shops that you’ll find in the malls. Inside Dubai mall is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums with sharks and rays. It’s a Dubai must see. 

• Tip: Many malls provide free shuttle services to larger hotels, or you can use the hop-on, hop-off bus service (just be sure to book a day ticket in advance).

Spend a day at the public beach at JBR

Beach GatG

One of the relaxing things to do in Dubai on your own is to spend time on the beach. No trip here is complete without a dip in the warm waters of the sea (which gets really warm in the summer months). Most hotels have their own section of private beach which you can pay to enter.

Laze at the public beach of Jumeriah Dubai where you can dine in one of the many restaurants along The Walk at JBR afterwards or spend the day at Kite Beach which has lots of pop up restaurants and a great cafe called Salt, which serves ice-creams. There’s even a little market here too. 

Adventure GatG

When you want to escape the city, the Dubai desert is only a stone’s throw away. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a protected nature reserve covering an area of 225 sq kms where you can spot wildlife like gazelles and oryx.

One of the best things to do in Dubai if you love adventure is to take an exhilarating 4WD drive Dubai desert safari, racing up and down the sandy red dunes. Excursions in Dubai also include some dune bashing on the way into the desert camp too. You can either meet the tour company at the designated spot which is usually near the Mall of Emirates or pay extra to get picked up. 

The Emiratis love their camel racing and the Nad Al Sheba Camel Track can be found just outside the city but as betting is forbidden, it’s all about the taking part. If you want to try it for yourself, the local camel farm is the place to visit in Dubai to have your own camel ride on these galloping animals. Visit Dubai during October to April for camel racing.

• Tip: For the best desert safari experience, go in the late afternoon when the golden light makes the dunes even more spectacular.

A blend of old and new at Al Seef

Culture and History GatG

If you want a taste of old Dubai, visit the Al Fahidi historical district, one of the Emirate’s oldest areas that provides a glimpse of life back in Dubai before the ninety seventies, with traditional buildings and a labyrinth of lanes to lose yourself in. 

Just next to it is Al Seef. I love this area. It’s full of market stalls and is made to look old and traditional whilst showcasing traditional Emirati architecture. Being along Dubai Creek also means that you can take a dhow ride (a traditional boat) along here too. Or you can test your senses at The Museum of Illusions which is also here. 

For more insight into Dubai’s past, the Dubai Museum is an informative escape from the city’s modern skyscrapers, teaching visitors about Dubai’s early history, including its Persian settlers and pearl diving legacy. (This is temporarily closed)

If you’re keen on getting a taste of Bedouin life, a visit to a Bedouin village offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional nomadic lifestyle.

City & Sightseeing GatG

The Dubai Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai is one of the best places to visit in Dubai. The Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and one of Dubai’s most iconic sights. Needless to say that you can get an amazing view of the city from the observation deck which stands at 555 metres (a must see in Dubai). 

Another iconic sight is the Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious 7-star hotel. A visit to its Sky Bar is a perfect way to sip cocktails while taking in stunning views. Or just take a Burj Al Arab tour inside to explore this iconic building. 

Then there’s the Museum of the Future. This new iconic building has even been voted one of the most beautiful buildings in the world! Even if you don’t get a chance to go inside (you need to book ahead weeks in advance) then just seeing it from the outside is stunning. 

Fun Loving GatG

Dubai is bursting with places that you can indulge your inner child and no one even looks at you if you’re alone so don’t let being here solo stop you from having one of these experiences.

Visit Atlantis The Palm for a mix of fun and luxury, or spend a day at the Wild Wadi Waterpark for thrilling water rides. If you prefer indoor adventures, head to IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park in the world, where you can dive into thrilling rides and games.

For something truly magical, don’t miss the Dubai Miracle Garden. Visit between November and May and this floral wonderland transforms into a blooming spectacle with its floral clock, castles, and even replicas of famous landmarks made entirely from flowers (the Emirates plane is amazing!)

If you want to indulge your inner child and explore Dubai from a childlike perspective, visit the Dinosaur Park, the largest dinosaur park in the world. Or if dinosaurs aren’t really your thing, Dubai Garden Glow is a theme park with illuminated colourful displays, laser light shows and even a Burj Khalifa replica made from recycled items.

Or delve into Bollywood blockbusters at Bollywood Parks Dubai, one of the Dubai Parks and Resorts, where you can can transport yourself to India, and enjoy rides and vibrant performances from Mumbai.

What To Do in Dubai in the Evenings

For those who love vibrant nightlife, Dubai Marina is the place to be. The area comes alive at night with its fantastic restaurants and bars. During the day, you can go jet-skiing or simply admire the yachts lined up along the marina.

If you want to sample the nightlife, you can join a Dubai pub crawl to see the city’s party scene and spend the evening at 4 different bars with others.

Head to Dubai Mall to watch the free Dubai Fountain shows. It’s so spectacular and if you get there early enough you can grab a seat at the Time Out bar where you can watch the shows that happen every 30 minutes whilst having a drink and some food. 

If you’re looking for a classy venue to enjoy a cocktail, you can’t get better than the Sky Bar at the world’s most famous 7 star hotel – the Burj Al Arab. Designed as a sail, this unique hotel has a stunning lobby full of reds, golds and royal blues that will make you feel like a princess. Cocktails are expensive and there is a minimum spend but it is definitely worth the visit.

Just along from the Burj is the Souk Madinat Jumeriah: Dubai’s own little Venice, where you can take a boat ride through the Dubai water canal and narrow waterways to the Arabian Market. There are plenty of restaurants here so it’s a great spot to dine in the evenings.

One of the must do things in Dubai, along the Dubai Creek is to join a dhow cruise at night. Although it can be a bit touristy with a belly dancing show put on for the passengers, you get to see a different side of Dubai as you sail past the old area and away from the skyscrapers and city life.

You can also attend events solo and won’t feel out of place. I use Platinumlist where you can attend the Dubai Opera, a dance event or a concert at the Coca Cola Arena.

• Top Tip: Purchase a premium hop-on, hop-off bus ticket where you get an Arabian dhow cruise included so there’s no need to buy a specific tour.

See the fountain show at Dubai Mall

Dubai Tours

There are plenty of activities in Dubai and Dubai excursions that you can do here. Here are my recommended companies for tours in Dubai:

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated Dubai activities and Dubai attractions. Choose from Burj Khalifa tickets, a camel safari or a Dubai city tour visiting the Dubai Museum, a trip to Dubai Creek or a dhow dinner cruise. There are several to choose from including a Dubai half-day city tour, and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews for your day sightseeing tour and price. Then check availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for all Dubai day tours

If you only have a few days in the city and are unsure what you shouldn’t miss, here are top 5 best tours for solo travelers in Dubai:

• Dubai hop on bus tour – See all the famous landmarks on this bus tour
• Fountain show – You can’t miss this stunning fountain show
• Aquarium & Burj Khalifa – See the world’s tallest building and the aquarium 
• Atlantis Aquaventure – Experience the world’s largest water park
• Desert Safari, Quad bike & camel ride – Step out of the city and explore the desert

Where To Stay in Dubai

Known for its luxurious Dubai hotels such as the Burj Al Arab, you may think that accommodation here will cost a small fortune but you can find reasonable accommodation if you are on a budget. There are many hostels within the city offering both mixed and female-only dorms for those wanting to spend their money on experiences instead and wanting to meet others. 

* Unsure which area to stay? Read: Best Areas To Stay in Dubai

This Emirate is known for its 5-star hotels and Dubai has so many hotels to choose from. From 3-stars within the Deira district to the luxurious 5-star hotels in Dubai along Jumeriah Beach, the Palm or Dubai Marina. If you prefer self-catering options, you’ll also find apartments and aparthotels that generally have a gym and a swimming pool.

A 3-star hotel here is amazing quality compared to those that you will find in Europe for example so you don’t even need to splurge on a 4 or 5-star (unless you really want to of course).

If you are searching for the best accommodation in Dubai for solo travellers, I’ve personally stayed in 15 different accommodations in the city from co-living villas to gorgeous hotels. I’ve listed all my recommendations plus the best areas to stay in Dubai to help you decide where to stay and included a map of Dubai below to make it easier to see where the accommodation are. * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Dubai

* Read the 5 Best Hotels in Dubai For Solo Travellers 

Getting Around Dubai

Travelling in Dubai is easy with good public transportation. The hop on hop off bus takes you to the old town and back to the new city and is a good way of getting your bearings when you first arrive. 

The Dubai metro is easy to use. Most stations are above ground so it’s also a good way of seeing the city. The red line takes you to Deira City Centre. Dubai transportation costs from AED7 and you can buy a Nol card which you can also use on the buses and the tram. 

Some hotels offer free Dubai transportation to the shopping district but there is also an extensive bus network. To see some of the tourist sights, Line 8 is a good route to take, or you can take the Dubai Tram that runs to Jumeirah Beach. 

Most people here take taxis and you can hail a metered Dubai taxi anywhere. There is also Uber in Dubai and the local app called Careem, a popular taxi app where you request your journey through your mobile phone and pay through the app.

You can just get around using taxis but if you are considering renting a car, I suggest pre-booking your car hire so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

If you visit Palm Jumeirah Dubai, take the Palm monorail which is reachable from Nakheel Mall or the tram. Plan for your journey around Dubai using the Wojhati travel planner app.

Itinerary For Dubai

Dubai can be visited on a long weekend city break but as the flying time is 6 hours from the UK, it’s definitely worth staying at least 4 to 5 days in Dubai. If you are unsure what to do alone in Dubai, whether you can only do Dubai in a day, or Dubai in 5 days, below are recommendations for things to do in Dubai for 5 days. To create your best Dubai itinerary 3 days or for 4, just customise the days that you prefer for your Dubai trip itinerary. 

Day One – Start the morning shopping in one of Dubai’s giant malls. Explore the Dubai aquarium or even go skiing inside one at Ski Dubai! (one of the Dubai top attractions). Then head to the Burj Khalifa when you are all shopped out. Stroll around the grounds of the Burj Park then watch the Dubai Fountain show, another of the tourist attractions in Dubai which puts on a display in the evening. It’s also one of the places to visit in Dubai for free. 

Day Two – Take a hop on hop us bus city tour and see the city to get your bearings then climb aboard a dhow for a river cruise along the creek, stopping at the old souks for nose-tingling scents and the Pearl Museum. Then relax in the afternoon on the beach. If your accommodation doesn’t have a beach, relax at Jumeriah Beach (the public beach).

Day Three – Continue the sightseeing in Dubai and discover Dubai’s Little Venice. Take a boat ride then spend some time at the Arabian Market before taking a buggy to the Burj Al Arab for a drink and some dates (of the cuisine kind) at the Sky Bar.

Day Four – Venture to Dubai’s man-made palm island. You can easily spend a day here at the Atlantis Palm, a gorgeous 5 star hotel with shops and first-class restaurants. Explore the Aquaventure Waterpark and take the ‘Leap of Faith,’ a 9-story tall mega-slide on a Mayan Temple.

If you prefer to stay dry, wander around the Lost Chambers Aquarium (where you can also snorkel inside) and the Atlantis Room displaying artefacts from the fantasy world of Atlantis before having a drink at Nasimi Beach. 

Day Five – Explore the desert landscape and take a 4WD desert safari through the sand dunes. Visit a Bedouin village to see their traditional nomadic life. In the afternoon visit the Sheik Sied Palace and Jumeriah Mosque. 

The Emirate is perfect for a stopover on a multi-centre trip to Thailand, Malaysia or Bali and can also be twinned with the Maldives or Seychelles.

Travel Guide To Dubai

If you need a guide book for your travels I recommend Rough Guides. Covering where to go and when to go, things not to miss, itineraries, getting around, festivals and events, history, and maps, they are amongst the most comprehensive guides on the market.

The Rough Guide To Dubai – If you are planning on travelling a solo trip to Dubai, the Rough Guide to Dubai covers topics such as: book your trip, accommodation, getting there, getting around, food and drink, and travel essentials. They also include Dubai tourist attractions, shopping, eating and entertainment so you can maximise your time and know exactly where to go.  * Check prices for Rough Guides

Best Time To Go To Dubai

Dubai is a year-round destination thanks to its desert location but the weather can change in the winter months. In December and January as well as warm days expect some clouds, wind and even a few days of rain. But it is still Dubai so you can sunbathe during the day and just wear a jacket for the cooler nights.

The summer months in Dubai can be extremely hot. In July and August, temperatures can reach more than 40 degrees Celsius making it too hot to sightsee. For any Dubai trips, avoid 12 pm until 3 pm when the days are at their hottest and choose to browse air-conditioned souks and shopping malls instead. 

Spending the days inside and the evenings outside is the best way to survive the hot months and the hottest times of the day before getting back on the beach or a swimming pool in the late afternoon. The heat can cause fog over the city too so make the most of a clear day for any trips to the Burj Khalifa. 

When travelling to Dubai alone, the best time is between October to March. Or visit between mid-December and January for the annual Dubai shopping festival. This chart shows the average maximum day temperatures for Dubai from January to December to help you plan the best time to go to Dubai.

Travel Insurance For Dubai

If you are visiting Dubai as a solo female traveller, travel insurance is always recommended especially if you are planning on adventure tours to the desert.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Dubai. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

While the thrill of exploring Dubai can be high on your list, it’s equally important to consider your health and well-being during your travels, especially in a foreign city. Knowing about the top hospitals in Dubai can give you peace of mind, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any unexpected health issues.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover and additional baggage cover. * Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Airports in Dubai

Dubai’s main airport is the Dubai International Airport which is one of the world’s busiest international airports. The airport is known to work as a hub for all major airlines and is the hub for Emirates Airlines.

A taxi is the quickest way from the airport into the city but the fare does start from AED 25 . Taxis are available 24 hours from the terminal. The metro is the cheapest way and costs AED 7.

* If you are traveling to Dubai alone, feel more confident with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book your transfer with Hoppa Dubai, a reliable and safe service for solo females.

Questions About Dubai

• Can I drink the water? I don’t drink the tap water here. Instead, it is safer to drink bottled water or you can take your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected? I always tip at least 10% and give the taxi drivers tips in cash. 
• Any ATM’s? Yes, there are lots of ATMs here. 
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price in the malls, bartering in the souks.
• Which side of the road do they drive? They drive on the right-hand side in Dubai.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes, you’ll find several places in Dubai for vegetarians and vegans.
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No but the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building!
• Is Dubai safe for single females? Yes, Dubai is very cosmopolitan. Read more in the Solo Travel section. 

Map of Dubai

More Posts on Dubai

• • Living in The UAE as a Woman
  • Solo Travel in The Middle East
  • Why I Chose To Move To Dubai
  • Best Areas To Stay in Dubai
  • Best Places To Shop in Dubai
  • Things To Do in Dubai Alone
  • Best Wedding Venues in Dubai