10 Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

Planning on visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman? Not sure how to prepare or what to pack for this city? This guide will walk you through my top ten tips for solo female travel in Abu Dhabi, or for females traveling here in general. Let’s dive in to discover how to navigate visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman now!

If you’ve been here for a while, then you already know – I spend a lot of time in the Middle East. And, Abu Dhabi is a place I’ve visited many times over throughout the years.

But, the Middle East is one of the trickiest regions to navigate traveling as a female. It can be hard to know what to wear or how to get around safely.

In this guide, I’m going to give you my top tips for visiting Abu Dhabi as a female. I will cover everything from safety and transportation to things to see and how to dress.

I’ll also tackle cultural expectations and nuances to be aware of. By the end of this article, you’ll be feeling confident and calm about traveling to Abu Dhabi.

And, I can almost guarantee that all the women traveling to Abu Dhabi will appreciate this incredible city as much as I do!

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Top Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

If you are feeling anxious or unsure about visiting Abu Dhabi as a female, you are in the right place.

Below you’ll find tips about travel safety, how to dress, where to stay, how to get around, and much much more.

1. Safety for females in Abu Dhabi

The most common concern about traveling to Abu Dhabi as a female centers around safety.

This is understandable, since the Middle East is shrouded in a bit of mystery for westerners and is covered in an unflattering light on most western news channels.

Let me be the first to tell you, you will feel extremely safe when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are safe, clean, and relaxed.

As a solo female in Abu Dhabi, I’ve experienced mostly kindness, a fair amount of curiosity, and a friendly willingness to help.

It is helpful to know, Abu Dhabi has been named the safest city in the world for the sixth year in a row in 2023. So, it is not only my personal experience that Abu Dhabi is safe – it is an all around fact.

If at any time you need to review current recommendations on travel to the UAE, you can do so here.

Pro Tip: If you still feel nervous, consider taking this Birdie personal safety device (good for all destinations you may visit as a solo female!) and carry my favorite crossbody bag. It is slash-proof and RFID protective. Both will help you feel super secure!

Be sure to check out my most recommended travel safety gear, too.

2. How to dress in Abu Dhabi for women.

Women traveling to Abu Dhabi should come prepared to dress conservatively throughout their stay. While this probably comes as no surprise, it can be tough to known what to wear in Abu Dhabi as a woman!

Luckily, I can help with that. The United Arab Emirates as a whole is quite conservative. But there is also a huge number of expats living here.

This creates a big mix of clothing styles that you’ll observe.

In particular, if you visit Dubai, you will likely notice women here and there not dressed conservatively at all. And, confusingly, they will be relatively near women covered in head to toe abayas and hijabs.

I always advise visitors to any country, but particularly females, to dress in a way that is acceptable to the local culture. I figure, you are a guest in their country, so best to adapt to their norms.

Here are my top recommendations that every female in Abu Dhabi should pack to stay both conservative and comfortable. Think of this as your Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists.

You May Also Like: Is Dubai Safe for Solo Female Travel?

If you follow the Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists above, you are bound to feel comfortable, modest, and respectful all at once.

That is the perfect trifecta when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman!

3. Know that solo female travel in Abu Dhabi is still not so common.

For all the solo women visiting Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a whole, remember – you are an anomaly.

Perhaps you, like me, pride yourself in the fact that you fearlessly solo female travel across continents, excited to explore everything the world has to offer. I hear you, sister! I’m with you!

I would just advise that while you’re visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, remember that you are an anomaly. In this part of the world, a woman traveling alone is still outside of the norm.

At the same time, don’t let this make you fearful. Here is what to expect.

You will get some curious stares, but besides that, you will mostly be left alone. United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, and many locals live in Abu Dhabi. These locals will treat you with respect, give you space, but are also willing to help should you need or ask for it.

Be sure to check out my article on what not to do in Dubai, as it is applicable for Abu Dhabi, as well.

4. Where to stay in Abu Dhabi as a female.

The most important thing to know is that Abu Dhabi is extremely safe. So no matter where you stay, you will likely not have trouble, per se.

However, some areas are more desirable for tourists due to the ease of getting to attractions, restaurants, and sights.

For all of you planning on visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, here are my top three hotel suggestions for both location and safety. I’ll include a budget, mid range, and luxury option below, depending on your specific travel style.

Pro Tip: While hostels were not a thing in the UAE as recently as ten years ago, now they are starting to crop up more commonly. They all generally have female only rooms, which is great for anyone traveling alone as a woman in Abu Dhabi. For shoestring travelers, check hostel prices here!

Budget Option: The Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate

This budget-friendly hotel is perfect for anyone who wants accommodations in a central location without breaking the bank.

The Ibis is a well known chain across the country. This specific hotel offers free Wifi, clean rooms, a sparkling pool, and kitchen facilities in some room options. It is an easy ride away from some of the top sights on this list.

BOOK THE IBIS ABU DHABI GATE HERE!

Mid-range Option: Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi

The Corniche is a pretty walkway along the Arabian Sea in Abu Dhabi.

The Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi has spacious rooms and suites with hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows with garden or Gulf views.

The on-site health club features an outdoor swimming pool with sunken bar, a sauna and a gym. The hotel is about 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi’s airport.

BOOK THE CORNICHE HOTEL ABU DHABI HERE!

Luxury Option: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Looking for more of a splurge on your trip to Abu Dhabi? Then check out the gorgeous Hilton on Yas Island, near Waterworld and Ferrari World.

All rooms are equipped with a mini bar, a flat screen TV, and coffee maker. The rooms include a work station, balconies, and floor–to–ceiling windows with great views.

Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island is also equipped with a 24-hour fitness center and separate female and male facilities for the whirlpool, steam room, sauna, and more.

BOOK THE HILTON ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND HERE!

5. How to get around when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

Abu Dhabi is a large enough city that it is unrealistic to walk everywhere when visiting.

Sure, you can walk short distances from your hotel if you are in a central location. But, overall, you will need some type of transportation in order to see everything here.

You have a few options as a tourist in Abu Dhabi. Taxis are widely available around the city, and never seem to be far from where you may be.

If you prefer to book via an app, consider using Uber or Careem. Both are rideshare apps that are available in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Check out some reasons on why you might prefer a rideshare app over a taxi in my solo female taxi safety article.

Unfortunately, Abu Dhabi does not have a metro system like Dubai does, so the best fast and affordable options for tourists are rideshare apps and taxis.

6. Top things to do in Abu Dhabi as a woman.

Women, and even solo females in Abu Dhabi, can enjoy just about any of the attractions that groups of friends and families would frequent.

Visitors to Abu Dhabi will have a vast spectrum of attractions to choose from. Outdoor adventures, leisure activities, theme parks, shopping, and cultural experiences are all easy to find here.

So here are some of the top attractions and things to do (that I personally recommend seeing!) when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

You May Also Like: Reasons to Visit Dubai

Visit Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the must see attraction for anyone visiting Abu Dhabi, women or men alike.

This impressive architectural marvel is a glimmering white, with intricately detailed tiles and mosaics dotting the walls and sprawling across the outdoor courtyard. The grand chandelier and massive ornate carpet are both decorative and grand.

Pro Tip: Get all the details on how to visit and what not to do here in my Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque article. It is an absolute must-see attraction in Abu Dhabi!

Women will need a lightweights scarf to cover their head and hair. Don’t forget it!

The enormous mosque has the capacity to hold 40,000 worshippers, and is welcoming of non-Muslims as long as they follow the dress code and etiquette.

Pro Tip: Book a tour for the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and make your journey stress free. This highly rated tour includes transportation and additional sights in Abu Dhabi!

Book an Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

An Abu Dhabi Desert safari is one of those can’t-miss experiences when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman! You can book your desert safari every day of the week, year round.

If you like a good adrenaline rush, you’ll absolutely love dune bashing, which is speeding across the desert dunes in a 4WD vehicle. It is pretty incredible, how skilled the drivers are on such a shifting terrain.

You’ll also visit camel farms, which is one of my favorite parts! I really love their unique personalities. Enjoy a traditional dance show, a barbecue dinner, henna, and much more.

Pro Tip: One of my very first safari drivers many years ago was Mohammed, who now owns his own tourism company Aladdin Adventure. He also offers a sunrise safari tour, if you need an early departure. Mohammed can basically customize your tour to fit exactly what you need. Contact him on WhatsApp at +971 58 180 6064 (definitely tell him Monica sent you for some extra special treatment!)

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Take in Qasr Al Watan’s beauty.

Qasr Al Watan is a grand, awe-inspiring attraction that is a part of Abu Dhabi’s Presidential Palace Complex. This ornate building gives you a glimpse into the region’s unmatched, extraordinary style.

Every corner of Qasr Al Watan is dripping in gold and crystals. The tilework is impeccable.

Here you can explore the Great Hall, the Presidential Banquet, a Presidential Gifts Collection, Governance and Spirit of Collaboration, House of Knowledge and Qasr Al Watan Library, which is stocked with more than 50,000 books.

Pro Tip: Book a combo tour of Qasr Al Watan, the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque (above), and Emirates Palace for one low price. Transfers, entrance fees, and additional stops are included! It’s a fabulous deal. BOOK YOUR COMBO TOUR HERE!

Visit the grand Emirates Palace.

The imposing, five-star Emirates Palace Hotel is a quintessential photo stop on any Abu Dhabi city tour. The view out over the city is incredible, showcasing the new skyscrapers as you stand inside of old luxury.

For a unique experience during your tour, visit Le Café, located inside the building. Live like royalty as you indulge in ice creams, cappuccino and coffees, and fruit tarts adorned with real 23 Karat gold flakes.

Need more inspiration for your visit to the UAE? My Dubai & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide is jam-packed with attractions and tips for both areas.

Take a Liwa Desert Safari.

For anyone who wants to get off the beaten path and into the real Arabian Desert, then a Liwa Desert Safari is the place for you! Here you can immerse yourself in the heart of the desert’s vast dunes.

Visit local camel farms, explore the orange sand dunes, and camp overnight for a unique and memorable experience. Whether it’s for a day trip or an extended excursion, Liwa Desert Safari provides an unforgettable escape into the Arabian Desert.

Pro Tip: Liwa sits several hours from Abu Dhabi’s downtown area, and you will need an expert guide to embark on this excursion. This is not a trip you can do alone. The dunes are endless, and few can truly navigate this region. BOOK YOUR LIWA TOUR HERE!

With an experienced and knowledgeable guide, you will have access to areas of Liwa that are often hard to reach on your own. The guides will teach you about the local culture, flora and fauna, and help you explore hidden oases in this unique environment.

Go Kayaking among the mangroves.

Wouldn’t have guessed that Abu Dhabi has natural mangroves in its ecosystem?

Yeah, I wouldn’t have either – until I saw them for myself!

Abu Dhabi’s hidden gem, Eastern Mangrove National Park, offers an opportunity to explore the region’s untouched natural beauty through eco-tours and kayaking sessions.

Visitors can observe the diverse wildlife, mangroves and stunning views while learning about the importance of conservation in the area.

Pro Tip: While I’ve seen other cheaper mangrove tours listed, note that they do not include transportation to and from the park. If you want door to door air-conditioned transportation, definitely book this kayaking tour.

With its unique blend of marine life and protected natural areas, Mangrove National Park promises a very unique experience for all who visit!

BOOK YOUR MANGROVE TOUR HERE!

Get your adrenaline pumping at Ferrari World.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi is the world’s Ferrari branded theme park. It has many exciting Ferrari-themed rides including some of the world’s fastest roller coasters!

You can also take a photo next to a bright red Ferrari, or shop ’til you drop for car-themed souvenirs.

In the summer, hit Yas Waterworld.

For the mermaids at heart, or for anyone looking to beat Abu Dhabi’s summer heat, one of the best places to visit is easily Yas Waterworld.

This water park is built to honor the region’s pearl diving tradition, which I was lucky enough to learn about at Ras Al Khaimah’s Suwaidi Pearl Farm. Yas Waterworld offers a wide range of water rides and attractions to keep you entertained all day long

See the art at the incredible Louvre Abu Dhabi.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is impressive for many reasons, both based on what you see outside as well as in.

Firstly, the architecture is stunning, with a detailed domed roof and slick modern lines. Secondly, the art the museum houses is top tier!

The exhibition design of Louvre Abu Dhabi explores the connections between civilizations and cultures, even ones that appear distant in time and geography. The display follows a chronological and theme-based structure, covering various periods and civilizations.

Visit Abu Dhabi’s Falcon Hospital.

The falcon is a celebrated bird in Abu Dhabi, as well as greater United Arab Emirates as well as other Gulf countries.

The UAE’s national bird, the falcon, has played a significant role in Emirati culture and heritage. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the first and largest of its kind globally, provides expert medical care for these birds.

Find current hours and details for visiting here.

7. Note that your tour guides will likely all be male.

The vast majority of tour guides all over the UAE tend to be male. That holds true in Abu Dhabi.

So if you are visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, know in advance to expect a male driver and/or guide.

Overall, this should not be a problem, since the traditional Muslim values dictate that a man treat a woman with respect. But if you are taking a tour solo and feel at all uncomfortable, be sure to sit in the back of the car.

Pro Tip: My article on solo female taxi safety has a few gems of wisdom that are applicable to solo females on tours with male guides.

8. Take advantage of “ladies only” deals.

One great thing for anyone visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman is to take advantage of “ladies only” days at local establishments.

Because the UAE is a Muslim country, and comingling of the sexes isn’t encouraged, you will be able to find some ladies-only establishments. Or, at the very least, ladies-only days at establishments.

For example, Yas Waterworks always hosts a ladies only day, as do many local gyms. Some beaches offer ladies-only sections and you’ll easily identify ladies versus men’s salons and barber shops.

If you are going out for a night, many clubs have ladies nights, which offer free entry or free drinks, or a combination of the two.

Pro Tip: To avoid a public snafu, be sure to read my article on Alcohol in Dubai. It applies to Abu Dhabi, too, and will let you know all the guidelines before you drink.

9. The best time of year for visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

I can now say that I’ve visited Abu Dhabi in all seasons. Heck, I’ve basically been there in all months of the year, too!

So the best time of year for visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman depends on what you plan to do, or what your preference is weather-wise. Let’s chat about the seasons and options.

In general, the most popular time to visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai is in the winter. But, the best time to avoid crowds is easily the summer.

Here is a season-by-season breakdown on the seasons in Abu Dhabi:

December to February – Winter in Abu Dhabi

Winter is the peak season for visiting Abu Dhabi due to milder temperatures and lower humidity compared to the summer. The region enjoys ample sunshine and warm conditions, with a slight chance of rain.

This is also when Abu Dubai comes to life with a calendar of incredible holiday and outdoor events.

Evenings are cooler, and during the winter months, the ocean may feel too cold to swim in. However, many hotels offer heated pools as an alternative for guests to enjoy.

March to May – Spring in Abu Dhabi

The shoulder season is an ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi. During this period, the temperatures are slightly warmer compared to the summer months, but without the intense heat.

The spring season is a great time to visit Abu Dhabi, as well. You can enjoy the warmer weather and not-so-cold water at the beach while avoiding the winter crowds.

Additionally, travel during these months tends to be more affordable compared to peak season. It’s a win-win!

June to August – Summer in Abu Dhabi

Summers in Abu Dhabi are extremely hot here. The bright sun shines aggressively down with temperatures regularly hovering in the triple digits.

During this season, there are fewer tourists visiting. Spending time on the beach or by the pool is more suitable for those who love the sun and hate the crowds.

Because summer is the low season in Abu Dhabi, you are more likely to get great hotel deals and activity discounts that you would never see in the winter months. So budget travelers, this is your time!

September to November – Autumn in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi begins to cool off in the month of September, with temperatures trending downward the further into autumn you go.

Similar to spring, the weather is warm and sunny but not sweltering, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as an evening desert safari or kayaking in the mangroves. Take advantage of the last deals on accommodations as the tourism season begins to pick up.

10. Visas and entry requirements.

One of the most dreaded rookie moves any traveler can make is not have the required travel documents and visas for any given destination. Ladies, check your requirements carefully.

If you are from the USA like me, note that American women in Abu Dhabi can enter the UAE for up to 30 days on a tourist visa. You can collect this visa on arrival at either DXB, AUD, or even one of the smaller international airports.

Pro Tip: Oftentimes, the airlines from the Middle East will state the exact requirements you will need, both in terms of visas and any health forms. Always double check these against the country’s stated requirements, which you will find here.

The entry process at Abu Dhabi’s international airport (AUH) is extremely simple. There is ample signage and airport agents are willing to help point you in the right direction.

Pro Tip: Keep all of your documents in order by using this handy passport holder. I absolutely love mine and it helps me stay organized even when carrying loads of bags and papers. GET YOUR PASSPORT HOLDER HERE!

Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman FAQs

For anyone who still has questions about visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, hopefully these FAQs will cover them!

Keep reading for some of the top questions about traveling to Abu Dhabi as a woman or a solo female.

What are the rules for female tourists in Abu Dhabi?

There are both legal rules and cultural norms that women visiting Abu Dhabi should be aware of.

For example, don’t eat in public during the holy month of Ramadan. This is strictly forbidden. Additionally, you should avoid taking pictures of certain government buildings and don’t snap any pictures of locals, particularly Emirati women, without express permission. Note that PDA is not allowed in Abu Dhabi.

When visiting mosques, such as the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, be sure to cover yourself from head to toe, including a scarf or shawl over the head.

Do female tourists have to cover up in Abu Dhabi?

Female tourists in Abu Dhabi should cover up and remain conservative, regardless of how they dress at home. While there is no strict Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists, be sure to pack long skirts and pants; scarves and shawls which you will need to enter mosques; and shirts that cover your shoulders, chest and waist.

Note that in order to visit Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, your whole arms and legs must be covered, as well as your head.

My rule of thumb when visiting any country is to respect the local customs and dress more conservatively when the local women do so.

Can a single woman travel to Abu Dhabi?

Yes, single women can absolutely visit Abu Dhabi! The first time I visited Abu Dhabi and Dubai was as a solo female and it went overall very smoothly. I understand if you have nerves when visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time solo, but I can almost guarantee that you will have a great time.

Can you wear crop tops in Abu Dhabi?

No, it is not advised to wear crop tops in Abu Dhabi. While there is no specific law against it, except for in malls and mosques, it is in bad taste to dress very casually in this conservative country.

Can I take my girlfriend to a hotel in Abu Dhabi?

Nowadays, yes, it will not be a problem to travel as boyfriend and girlfriend and stay in the same hotel room. Roughly a decade ago, it was much more taboo and many hotels would not book rooms or apart-hotels for unmarried couples. Today, it is easy in most areas of Abu Dhabi.

Can you shake a woman’s hand in Abu Dhabi?

It is not expressly forbidden to shake a woman’s hand in Abu Dhabi, but note that physical touch between a man and woman who do not know each other is much less common here. The best tactic is to not hold out your hand, but rather, let her take the lead and see if she initiates it.

Can I kiss my girlfriend in Abu Dhabi?

Physical displays of affection are generally discouraged all around the UAE. This applies to Abu Dhabi as well. It will be in your best interest to save any kissing for your hotel room and not take part in any PDA while in public. It is technically against the law, and at best, culturally insensitive.

Is it safe to walk around Abu Dhabi at night?

Yes, it is extremely safe to walk around Abu Dhabi at night, even for women. As one of the safest cities in the world for many years running, Abu Dhabi is the kind of place where you can explore at night peacefully and without worry.

For anyone that wants to feel extra prepared, be sure to check out these top travel safety items.

Where I can go alone in Abu Dhabi?

A larger list of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi is above.

However, some of the best places to go alone in Abu Dhabi include:

• The Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Qasar al Watan
• Book an evening desert safari
• The Corniche, Abu Dhabi
• A Liwa Desert safari
• Mangrove National Park, Abu Dhabi
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
• Emirates Palace
• Yas Island

Is the UAE safe to visit as a woman?

Yes, the UAE is safe to visit as a woman. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai both consistently rank as two of the safest cities in the world for many years running. Women in Abu Dhabi and Dubai can feel safe walking in groups or even alone.

You May Also Like: Is It Safe to Visit Dubai as a Solo Female?

Can you hug in public in Abu Dhabi?

It is not advisable for members of the opposite sex to hug in public in Abu Dhabi. A quick greeting hug, especially at the airport, will not raise any eyebrows. But extended hugging or holding will draw uncomfortable stares from locals.

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Where should I go next?

After visiting Abu Dhabi, I highly recommend heading to one of these emirates next!

Dubai has loads of things to do, from museums to sky diving to colorful flower gardens too. It is nothing short of flashy.

Ras Al Khaimah is the place for adventurers. If you like ziplining, hiking, and ocean adventures, Ras Al Khaimah is for you.

Facts About Abu Dhabi for Women:

• Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Though overshadowed by its neighbor Dubai, Abu Dhabi is also the larger city.
• Abu Dhabi’s literal meaning is Father of the Gazelle.
• Abu Dhabi is the region’s largest producer of dates. Be sure to pick up some luscious Medjool dates while vacationing here!
• Tipping is not required but is commonly practiced in Abu Dhabi. 10-15% is fine.
• Abu Dhabi has roughly 435 miles of coastline. Though you likely picture the desert when you think of Abu Dhabi, the Arabian Sea is quite beautiful here.
• Abu Dhabi is much quieter than Dubai. If you want to see more of the traditions and culture in the region, Abu Dhabi is the place to see it.
• Abu Dhabi is roughly two hours away from Dubai by car.
• More locals live in Abu Dhabi than Dubai. Dubai is filled with more expats. Learn more about their differences in my article, Dubai vs Abu Dhabi.
• If you need to reach the police in Abu Dhabi, dial 999.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

Is Abu Dhabi safe for a woman traveling alone? And is Abu Dhabi safe for women in general?

Hands down the answer is yes.

Be sure to dress in a culturally sensitive way using my packing list above. Follow the laws on alcohol, public displays of affection, and male/female interactions and you will be just fine.

Abu Dhabi is a safe city for locals, tourists, males, and females alike. That means that anyone visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman can rest assured, by using common sense and practical planning, you should be just fine.

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