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Abu Dhabi is one of the major cities of the United Arab Emirates, and also it is the capital of this country. It is one of the places where, at the same time, you can observe modern constructions of glass and steel and ancient culture.
Like the other emirates, it has tall buildings, clean beaches and their shopping complexes are great. An increasing number of people are going to this city. But if you want to go alone, you might wonder: It is perfectly fine to visit Abu Dhabi without company for one week or more.
Currently, Abu Dhabi is one of the safest cities in the entire world. The crime rate is almost negligible, and the police enforcement is very particular, which makes it ideal for one-person travelers or even those people who do not prefer the company of strangers. In fact, they are often safer than many large metropolises such as, for instance, Tokyo or Zurich.
Single women will find Abu Dhabi relatively safe. The city is quite contemporary, and women are treated like queens. However, it is advisable to cover up a little bit more than this and respect the cultures of the region by dressing appropriately. Basically, there are female-only compartments available in transport and some hotels; this will definitely make you feel comfortable.
Indeed, there is evidence that supports the safety of the Abu Dhabi airport. It is a large international airport and is becoming even larger with a new one in the offing. It is as clean and clear as a light bulb and free of all types of dust. Some of the notable organizations that operate in the region include Etihad Airways, a famous airline.
It is convenient to pass the time there if only because some passengers observe a very long layover or even have to spend the night at the airport. Chain-operated hotels include Holiday Inn, which has a facility within the airport in Terminal 1. But it is still not as comfy as the new airports in Dubai or Qatar, for example. At other times, a person may take a long time to be granted immigration, though that is normally the only ordeal involved.
This is particularly true during the fasting season, which is in the month of Ramadan, at least in many Islamic councils. Cafes are sometimes utilized in the daytime while restaurants are closed, and it is forbidden to eat or drink in the street. Technically, there is no alcohol to be had anywhere. You should also dress fashionably and with some restraint.
But if all they are going to do is stay on the beach, then it may not be a problem at all. But if you wish to travel, it can pose a big challenge sometimes. It is very hot there and one will be advised to take water so as to replenish his or her body fluids. Some mosques may remain shut to visitors today. Still, most other sights, castles, galleries, monuments, restaurants, publishing houses, post offices, bookshops, swimming pools, nightclubs and so on will simply be open at different times.
The only surprising thing is that it is claimed to be the least expensive season, and tourist numbers will be fewer. At night, the general area of downtown Abu Dhabi will also be very active; this is always encouraging.
Of course, ISIS is no threat to Abu Dhabi. Most of the ISIS operations are in Syria, and this is quite far from the UAE. The UAE is avoiding being in the group’s direct reach and is also part of the anti-IS coalition.
Unlike Dubai, there are not many nightclubs and parties in Abu Dhabi, but there are numerous activities all through the night. One can dine in a restaurant, stroll along the Corniche or go to a hotel and have a beer. These are fairly harmless, but during the night, one should avoid very dimly lit areas.
Whenever you find yourself in a bar, do not forget the laws of the land on the sale of alcohol. Ensure that you have a sure transport back to your hotel. Taxis and ride-sharing services are reasonably available late at night.
The culture of Abu Dhabi is mildly conservative from the Islamic religion with strong blue-collar influence. Implementation should be done with respect to the existing local laws. It is prohibited to touch even in private places, such as kissing between heterosexual couples is forbidden.
You should also dress decently and in conservative areas, or if you are planning to go to certain places like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you should dress appropriately. You also need to know the laws.
Only the consumption of alcoholic beverages is allowed in certain areas, and to be drunk in public is prohibited. Drugs are prohibited and come with lasting damage. Notably, understanding these rules makes one avoid getting into some form of trouble.
There are several places to spend the night in Abu Dhabi, in several classes, from luxury hotels to cheap hostels. The security of most hotels is fairly reasonable; for instance, there are some cameras and rooms are locked with keys that are coded. If you are planning to stay in a hostel or Airbnb, make sure that the place is safe, and you can find this information in the reviews.
It is advisable to stay in areas with a lot of activities, such as the Corniche or Al Maryah Island. These areas are well illuminated and are most likely people-dominated areas, hence less likely to attract criminals.
The use of public transport in Abu Dhabi is secure for a single female or a man. The buses operate in all the areas, and anytime one can easily get a taxi. You can also use cabs, which are available through ride-sharing applications such as Uber or Careem, and these are safe to use.
If one wants to drive, then he or she can hire a car from the available car rental companies. The roads are pretty good; however, if you intend to drive, do take note of the traffic rules. For those who are foreign, you will have to pay fines if you infringe the laws.
Distinct places in Abu Dhabi that are appropriate to be visited alone include the following. One of the attractions that cannot be missed is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and it is quite tourist-friendly. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is another place one can visit on their own.
Depending on how they are situated, the best option is to come in the morning or early afternoon, not alone. Always ensure that your belongings are within your proximity in case of any sort of a twist.
It concerns quite a range of food to eat in Abu Dhabi, and restaurants are often very hygienic. While shopping you find yourself in crowded markets, ensure you guard your items well. Sometimes, crowded areas are famous for pickpockets.
In markets, prices may be inflated to the tourists; do not be pressed; negotiate your way to a cheaper price.
Having company is not easily come by, especially when you are a lone traveler. Mobile networks and internet services are decent in Abu Dhabi as with other major cities in the United Arab Emirates. In most places, Wi-Fi is free, and it is safe to use a VPN upon attaining the Internet connection.
Sometimes, you just want to call people or use data, so to do this, you purchase a SIM card locally. Etisalat and Du are the main operators, and both supply tourist SIM cards.
Many people have the impression that either Abu Dhabi is very serious and unfriendly for the westerners, or it is not. But in fact, it is a hospitable city that hosts people from different parts of the world.
The laws are different. However, the majority of citizens think that it is not complicated to adhere to them.
Yesterday’s misconception is that Abu Dhabi is not safe or that it is a particularly dangerous city for solo female travelers. Still, Abu Dhabi is quite safe, and many female travelers do not worry about walking around alone.
Is it safe to travel to Abu Dhabi alone for 1 week? Yes! Because the crime rate is relatively low and people here are quite friendly, Abu Dhabi is safe for lone raconteurs. Well, be good, thorough law abiders of your region and explore your destination happily!
Q1. For how many female tourists, especially those traveling alone, is it safe to visit Abu Dhabi?
Yes, Abu Dhabi is safe for ladies traveling alone. The city is courteous to women, and virtually all the sectors have zones that are reserved for women only.
Q2. Whether I am traveling for business purposes or just for tourism, what should I wear when I get to Abu Dhabi?
They dress rather conservatively, especially in religious and traditional parts of the country. Blouses should be worn down to the shoulders; skirts and dresses must be worn below the knees.
Q3. Is there anything I should not do or places I should not go to in Abu Dhabi?
Alcohol is available in restaurants and bars, but you should remember that Abu Dhabi is not very safe at night: it is better to remain in places densely populated with people and with affected illumination.
Q4. Is it safe to use public means of transport within Abu Dhabi at the moment?
Indeed, Abu Dhabi’s public transportation systems are efficient, and they are quite safe for travelers to use when they are alone. Taxis and Rideshares services are also safe.
Q5. In case of any emergency, what am I supposed to do?
For Police, ambulances or Fire services, call 999. Ensuring that you also have the contact details of your embassy is also wise counsel.
