Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

• Abu Dhabi consistently ranks among the world's safest cities. You'll find modern high-rises next to traditional sites like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the museums on Saadiyat Island. Crime is rare, streets are very clean, and there's a lot of security - CCTV cameras are everywhere, though they're not particularly obvious.
• Women traveling alone aren't common here yet, so expect some stares. But people are respectful - locals keep a polite distance while still being helpful if you need something. The city feels very safe at all hours. You can walk around the Corniche or go to malls late at night without worrying.
• Dress modestly in public - shoulders and knees covered. At hotel pools and beaches, normal swimwear is fine. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque requires full coverage including a headscarf. Most people in tourist areas and hotels speak English. Public displays of affection are illegal - even holding hands should be discreet. Drunk driving or being visibly drunk in public can get you arrested and deported.
• Taxis, Uber, and Careem all have cameras and are monitored. Public buses have separate sections for women and families. Areas like Al Maryah Island, Saadiyat, and the Corniche have plenty of cafes where it's normal to see people eating or working alone.

Arabic is the official language. English is common in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and malls. Emergency services (999, 998) have English-speaking operators. Tourism Police (+971-2-800-2626) can help in multiple languages. Most signs are in both Arabic and English.

• Cover shoulders and knees everywhere - malls, streets, restaurants. At hotel pools and beaches you can wear normal swimwear, but cover up when you leave. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque requires full coverage: ankle-length loose clothing, long sleeves to the wrist, and a headscarf.
• Public displays of affection are illegal. Even holding hands should be subtle. Kissing or hugging in public can get you fined or arrested, married or not.
• You can drink alcohol at licensed venues (hotel bars, restaurants, beach clubs) if you're 21+. Tourists don't need a permit. But being visibly drunk in public is illegal and can cost you AED 5,000 or more in fines. Any alcohol in your system while driving - even a trace amount - can lead to fines, jail time, or deportation.
• During Ramadan, don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours. This is enforced. Most restaurants either close or have screened-off sections. Dress more conservatively than usual.
• Don't photograph people without asking first, especially Emirati women. Some government buildings and military sites also can't be photographed. When unsure, don't take the photo.
• Tourist areas, hotels, and emergency services have English speakers. Learning a few Arabic words (shukran=thank you, min fadlak=please, marhaba=hello) helps.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Police Emergency: 999. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Taxis have CCTV cameras and are government-regulated with meters. Book through the Abu Dhabi taxi app or call 600-535-353. You can request a family taxi with a female driver if you prefer.
• Uber, Careem, and Yango all work here. Drivers are monitored by the companies and government, and they get fined for complaints. Sit in the back and wear your seatbelt.
• Public buses have AC, free Wi-Fi, and separate sections for women and families. The main bus station has separate areas for men and women with security. Buses are safe but less convenient than taxis for getting around.
• Yas Island has a free shuttle between hotels, theme parks, and restaurants. The Corniche, Saadiyat Cultural District, and waterfront areas are walkable, especially in cooler months (November-March).
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Abu Dhabi with local guides and curated experiences.