Safety tips for Dubai

The crime situation in Dubai

Dubai is renowned worldwide as one of the safest major cities for travelers – and this reputation is well-founded. Violent crimes, thefts, or assaults are absolute exceptions here. Instead, you can expect a high-tech metropolis with a consistent safety strategy, where state-of-the-art surveillance technologies, high police presence, and strict legislation ensure a consistently safe environment.

Comparison with other destinations

In international comparison, Dubai ranks among the very best. According to the Numbeo Safety Index 2025, the city is ranked 2nd in the world for safety – with only one other city rated as even safer. On a country level, the United Arab Emirates ranks second with a score of 84.5 points, just behind Andorra. The International SOS Risk Map also categorizes Dubai as a destination with 'very low risk' – a level that is rarely granted to global destinations. For travelers who value safety and stability, Dubai is therefore a truly premium destination.

Influences of crime on tourists

The likelihood of becoming a victim of a crime as a tourist in Dubai is extremely low. Violent crimes virtually never occur, and property crimes or fraud attempts are rare. What occasionally happens are pickpocketing incidents in busy areas like souks, shopping malls, or at large events – a risk that can be easily minimized with simple precautions.

More important than traditional crime in Dubai is adherence to local laws and cultural norms. Unauthorized photography, public drinking of alcohol, or inappropriate behavior in public can quickly lead to legal consequences. However, those who travel with respect and inform themselves about local customs in advance will have an exceptionally safe and pleasant travel experience in Dubai.

Cultural norms and behavioral rules

Dubai uniquely combines modern urbanity with deeply rooted traditions. This is precisely why it is important for travelers to familiarize themselves with local customs. Those who behave respectfully and sensitively will not only find open doors but also experience particularly warm hospitality. At the same time, knowledge of legal requirements protects against unpleasant situations or even legal consequences.

Clothing and appearance

A well-groomed, understated appearance is highly valued in Dubai – especially in public spaces like shopping malls, museums, or on the street. Women should ensure to cover their shoulders and knees, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts. In mosques, stricter rules apply: women must also wear a headscarf, and men should wear long pants. At beaches, conservative swimwear is mandatory, and nudity or revealing changing is not allowed. Adapting to local etiquette shows respect and avoids unwanted attention.

Public behavior

Dubai places great importance on politeness and understated conduct in public spaces. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan – especially during the day – is considered disrespectful and can be punished. Photographing people, especially women, as well as government buildings, military installations, and police stations, is prohibited without explicit permission. Greetings also follow cultural norms: shaking hands between men and women is uncommon unless actively offered. Additionally, the left hand – for cultural reasons – should not be used for eating or handing over objects.

Public displays of affection

What is considered normal in many western countries can quickly lead to legal consequences in Dubai. Kisses, hugs, or other intimate gestures in public are seen as indecent and are punishable by fines or even imprisonment. Even among married couples, affection is expected to be shown discreetly and in private. Those who want to be safe should refrain from physical intimacy in public, thus maintaining cultural respect.

Preparation for a safe trip to Dubai

Even though Dubai is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world, it's worth making some basic precautions before departure. Good preparation not only protects against unpleasant surprises but also ensures that you can enjoy your stay from the very beginning.

Travel insurance and insurance

Before you set off for Dubai, it is advisable to take out comprehensive travel health insurance – ideally including repatriation in case of emergency. This way, you are well covered in the event of unexpected medical incidents. Also, check the validity of your passport: it must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned return date. Registering in the crisis prevention list of the Federal Foreign Office ('Elefand') is also advisable, so you can be quickly reached in case of an emergency.

Copies of your important documents – such as passport, flight tickets, insurance certificates, or vaccination records – should be kept both digitally (e.g., in a cloud) and printed. Those who regularly take medication should bring a sufficient supply along with an English-speaking medical certificate. An updated vaccination status in accordance with the recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute also contributes to health security.

Safety precautions and police presence

On-site, travelers benefit from the high presence and efficiency of the security forces. The police in Dubai are modernly equipped and on duty 24/7 – especially in tourist hotspots, shopping malls, and at large events. Additionally, there is a so-called tourism police, specifically trained to address the concerns of guests from abroad. Emergency numbers such as 999 (police), 997 (fire department), or 901 (tourism police) should be kept handy.

Carry only what you need and safely store valuables in the hotel safe. In busy places like souks or public events, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Regularly inform family members about your travel route and avoid large crowds. By adhering to these simple basic rules, you lay the foundation for a carefree and safe time in Dubai.

Safety for solo female travelers

Dubai offers solo female travelers an exceptionally safe environment, which stands out significantly from many other international metropolises. The combination of a very low crime rate, clear legal guidelines, and thoughtful infrastructure creates ideal conditions for a carefree stay – whether you are exploring the city on your own or on business.

A major plus: Women get around Dubai independently and without restrictions. Driving, sitting alone in restaurants or cafés, traveling on the metro – all of this is completely normal and socially accepted. Many women who have visited or lived in Dubai report consistently positive experiences and a sense of respect and safety that they rarely experience in other major cities.

General safety precautions

Even though Dubai is considered extremely safe, a certain level of caution is always advisable. Women should make sure to cover their shoulders and knees – especially when visiting mosques or official institutions. Especially revealing clothing is inappropriate in public but is accepted at hotel pools or private beaches.

For additional security, special offers are available for women: separate compartments on the metro, so-called 'Pink Taxis' with female drivers, or women-only areas in buses. These options are popular not only with locals but also with female tourists – especially in the evenings.

As everywhere in the world: trust your gut feeling, do not display valuables openly, and turn to the police or hotel staff in case of uncertainties. By respecting the cultural customs, you will experience Dubai as a modern, cosmopolitan city where you can move freely and safely at all times.

Safety in traffic and public transport systems

Dubai remains true to its reputation as a safe travel destination even in road traffic. The infrastructure is modern and well developed – from multi-lane highways to an excellently organized public transport network. However, the dense traffic may initially seem unfamiliar to visitors from Europe, as many locals drive comparatively quickly and energetically. Those who want to explore Dubai stress-free are best advised to use the metro, buses, or official taxis.

Use of taxis and public transport

Taxis in Dubai are a safe and convenient means of transportation. Official vehicles can be recognized by their distinctive color scheme on the roofs. Women and families can opt for so-called 'Pink Taxis' – they are driven by female drivers and offer extra safety for solo female travelers. Be sure to only call a taxi at official stops or through the app. Unofficial offers should be strictly avoided. Payment is made via the meter – either in cash or by card. A tip of five to ten percent is customary.

The public transport network in Dubai is considered one of the safest in the world. The metro, buses, and trams are equipped with video surveillance, emergency call systems, and trained security personnel. Using it is straightforward: with the rechargeable NOL card, you have access to all means of transport. Clear behavioral rules ensure a pleasant interaction – for example, sitting, eating, or drinking in reserved areas may incur fines. For women, there are separate areas in the carriages that can be used upon request.

Whether taxi, metro, or bus – with a little awareness and adherence to local rules, there is nothing to prevent safe and relaxed travel through the city.

Avoiding scams and rip-offs

Despite Dubai's excellent reputation as one of the safest cities in the world, travelers should not be lulled into a false sense of security – as in every part of the world, there are also isolated attempts at fraud here that specifically target tourists. A healthy level of vigilance helps to confidently navigate typical tourist traps and enjoy your stay without worries.

Among the most well-known schemes is pickpocketing in busy areas like souks, large malls, or public beaches. There are also scammers who pose as police officers or bank employees over the phone, usually aiming to extract personal information. Stick to a simple rule here: never divulge personal information or payment details over the phone. At the popular Gold Souk, only buy from licensed dealers and always request a certificate of authenticity to avoid counterfeits. Also, for excursions or taxi rides, it is advisable to rely on official providers with transparent pricing.

Those who prepare well can minimize potential risks from the outset. Keep valuables close to your body, store important documents in the hotel safe, and avoid dubious offers – especially if they sound too good to be true. In case of uncertainties, the Dubai tourist hotline at 0800 44 38 can provide swift and straightforward assistance. This way, your holiday in Dubai remains not only luxurious but also completely safe.

Communication and social media in Dubai

In Dubai, smartphones, social media, and digital communication are part of everyday life – yet the metropolis has considerably stricter rules than in Europe. Anyone traveling in Dubai should familiarize themselves with the legal framework in advance to avoid unintentional misconduct. The United Arab Emirates pursue a consistent cybersecurity strategy and place great importance on respect, data protection, and public order – even online.

Use of social media

Most well-known apps like Instagram, YouTube, Google Maps, or email services work in Dubai without restrictions. Messenger services such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and iMessage can also be used for text messages without any problems. However, there are restrictions on voice and video calls via these services (VoIP), which are officially blocked in the UAE. Instead, authorities recommend using licensed alternatives such as the app 'Botim', which also allows video and voice calls.Many travelers resort to VPN services to circumvent such blocks – but this is not without risk. The use of VPNs in Dubai is only allowed if they are not used for legally prohibited activities. For example, if someone uses them to access blocked services, they enter a legal gray area and risk substantial fines.In Dubai, respectful behavior on social media is particularly important. UAE laws prohibit offensive content, the spreading of rumors, and defamatory statements – even in private chats. Negative online reviews, ironic comments, or seemingly harmless posts can quickly lead to legal consequences if deemed insulting or defamatory. There have been cases where critical Google reviews or mocking posts led to criminal charges.

Dubai is digitally well-connected – but anyone using social media should do so consciously and considerately. This means: do not post controversial content, do not publish photos without the consent of third parties, and do not make negative statements about individuals or institutions. This way, digital life in Dubai can be enjoyed stress-free and legally secure.

Emergency contacts and numbers

Even though Dubai is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world, it is wise to be prepared for emergencies. Having important emergency numbers at hand and knowing whom to contact allows for a more relaxed trip – and enables a swift and competent response when needed.

Important emergency numbers at a glance

The most important emergency numbers in Dubai are easy to remember and reachable 24/7:

Police: 999
Fire Department: 997

• Ambulance: 998
  
  
• Coast Guard: 996
  
  
• Tourist Security Department (free): 0800 44 38
  
  
• Additionally, you should also have the contact details of embassies and hospitals readily available:
  
  
• German Consulate General Dubai: +971 4 349 8888
  
  

Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Office Tower, 21st floor

• German Embassy Abu Dhabi (responsible for Dubai): +971 2 644 69 33
  Dubai Hospital (Deira): +971 4 219 5000
  
  
• American Hospital Dubai: +971 4 377 5500
  
  
• Thus, important contacts remain available
  
  
• Store this information not only digitally but also in analog form: save all important numbers in your smartphone under clear names like 'Emergency Dubai' and additionally secure them in a cloud. A printed emergency card in your carry-on luggage, passport case, or wallet provides extra security – especially in case of device loss.
  
  

Tip: Save important numbers as favorites in your contact list and use offline note apps or PDFs to remain functional even without internet access. If you are traveling with company or staying at a hotel, you should also leave a copy of the important contacts there.
Equipped this way, you maintain control even in unforeseen situations – a reassuring feeling that makes every trip a bit safer.

Conclusion: A respectful and safe trip

Dubai not only offers spectacular architecture, luxurious experiences, and a fascinating culture – the metropolis also impresses with an exceptionally high level of safety. To ensure that your trip is not only safe but also respectful and harmonious, it is important to familiarize yourself with local customs.

Pay attention to appropriate clothing in public, exercise restraint with displays of affection, and inform yourself about the legal framework – for example, regarding alcohol consumption or photography. A polite tone, culturally sensitive behavior, and a cautious awareness of your surroundings help to avoid misunderstandings and gain the trust of your hosts.

In short: those who travel with respect, openness, and common sense will experience Dubai at its most hospitable. In this dynamic city, tradition and modernity come together in an impressive way – creating a safe, inspiring atmosphere for travelers from all over the world.