Is Abu Dhabi safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Abu Dhabi is one of the safest cities in the world for visitors, with very low street crime and a heavily policed, orderly environment. The realistic risks are heat, road traffic and unknowingly breaking local laws, not crime. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
The real risks
Heat and sun
From May to September temperatures reach 40°C or more; heat exhaustion is the most common problem. Plan outdoor sights for early morning or after sunset, drink water constantly and wear a hat.
Road traffic
Roads are wide and fast, and the city is not designed for walking. Cross only at crossings, and expect speeding drivers on highways.
Local laws
Penalties are strict for drugs (including some prescription medicines; check before you travel), public drunkenness, public displays of affection, offensive gestures and photographing people or government buildings without permission.
Dress codes
Modest dress is expected in malls and public buildings, and strictly required at the Grand Mosque (women cover hair, arms and legs; abayas can be borrowed).
Desert and sea
Go on desert safaris only with licensed operators, wear seatbelts in dune bashing, and watch for strong currents and jellyfish on some beaches.
Petty theft
Rare, but keep an eye on phones and bags in crowded malls and at events such as the Grand Prix.
Areas and times to take care
There are no districts visitors need to avoid. The city island, the Corniche, Saadiyat and Yas Island are safe day and night. Older areas around Al Markaziyah and Hamdan Street are busier and more crowded but not dangerous. The main precaution is to respect the rules at religious sites and during Ramadan, when eating, drinking and smoking in public in daytime is frowned upon, and to stay alert in the heat.
Getting around safely
Licensed taxis (silver with yellow roofs) are metered, safe and reasonably priced; Uber and Careem also operate. Do not accept rides from unlicensed drivers at the airport. Public buses are safe but slow and infrequent on some routes. Driving is on the right; speed cameras are everywhere and fines are high. There is no metro.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women generally feel safe in Abu Dhabi, including at night in hotels, malls and on the Corniche. Dress modestly away from hotel beaches, sit in the back of taxis, and use the women-only sections that exist on some buses and in some waiting areas. Unwanted staring can happen; harassment is taken seriously by police and can be reported via 999.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is desalinated and considered safe, but most people drink bottled water, which is cheap. Heat and dehydration are the main health risks, especially from May to September. Air-conditioning is strong indoors, so carry a light layer. Healthcare is of a high standard but expensive, so travel insurance is essential. Some common medicines are controlled; carry prescriptions.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Abu Dhabi safe for tourists?
Yes, it is one of the safest cities in the world. The main risks are heat, traffic and strict local laws on drugs, behaviour and photography.
Is Abu Dhabi safe for women travelling alone?
Generally yes. Dress modestly in public places, use licensed taxis or ride-hailing, and report any harassment to police on 999.
Can I drink the tap water in Abu Dhabi?
It is desalinated and considered safe, but most people drink bottled water, which is cheap and everywhere.