I still remember my first day in Dubai, December 15th, 2018, when I got lost in the streets of Deira. Luckily, a kind taxi driver, Rashid, helped me find my way back to the hotel. Since then, I've learned a thing or two about staying safe in this city.
Dubai's generally a very safe city, but you'll still want to take some basic precautions to avoid any trouble. So, let's dive into some practical tips.
Look, the laws here can be pretty strict. You won't want to get caught drinking in public or taking pictures of government buildings – that'll cost you around AED 1,000. Honestly, it's just not worth the risk.
And, if you're planning to visit during Ramadan, be respectful of the local customs. Don't eat or drink in public during the day, or you might get fined AED 2,000.
Here's the thing: Dubai's a city that never sleeps, but you should still be careful at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas, especially around the Creek. Instead, take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app – it's usually around AED 20-30 to get where you need to go.
If you do find yourself in trouble, don't panic. The emergency number in Dubai is 999, and you can also contact the Dubai Police on 901.
I once had to call the police when my wallet was stolen at the Mall of the Emirates – they were really helpful, and I got my wallet back the next day.
But, like any city, there are still some scams and petty crimes to watch out for. Be careful of people approaching you with 'deals' that seem too good to be true, and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Gold Souk.
So, to stay healthy in Dubai, make sure to drink plenty of water – it's hot, and you don't want to get dehydrated. You can buy water bottles at most convenience stores for around AED 5-10.
If you're looking for some indoor activities to escape the heat, I'd recommend checking out The Green Planet Dubai or Motiongate Dubai – they're both really fun and air-conditioned.
Or, if you'd rather explore the surrounding cities, consider taking a Sharjah City Tour – it's a great way to learn about the local culture and history.
Finally, to stay safe while crossing the road, just remember to use the pedestrian bridges or tunnels – they're everywhere, and it's only AED 1 to use the metro, which is a great way to get around the city.
Tours can be booked through Roamigo Trips, and they often include safety briefings and guides to help you navigate the city.
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The Roamigo Trips editorial team is based in Dubai and passionate about helping travellers discover the best of the UAE. Our writers have first-hand experience across desert safaris, city tours, and everything in between.
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