Dubai named safest city for women travelling solo in 2025
Scores highest in safety, nightlife walkability, and quality of travel experiences
Dubai has claimed the top spot as the safest city in the world for female solo travellers in 2025, according to a comprehensive study conducted by travel insurance company InsureMyTrip.
The city surpassed 61 other destinations to earn the number one ranking, cementing its status as a global leader in female-friendly tourism. This latest honour follows its recent position as the second safest and cleanest city in the world, just behind the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, further underscoring its dedication to safety, urban planning, and quality of life.
Dubai’s recognition comes amid a surge in female solo travel, a trend that reflects growing demand for independence and freedom in exploring the world. Cities were evaluated based on safety, gender equality, walkability at night, and overall travel experience. Dubai scored particularly high in key categories like feeling safe while walking alone at night (83.11/100), safety irrespective of gender (86.23/100), and quality of activities (4.58/5), resulting in a total score of 7.71 out of 10 – a significant jump from its 2024 position.
Study methodology
The InsureMyTrip study analysed data from 62 cities using a standardised scoring model based on min-max normalisation. Each score was calculated between 0 and 10, with higher values indicating more favourable conditions for female solo travellers. The cities were judged across multiple data points, including city-level and country-level figures.
Dubai outperformed other top contenders such as Krakow, Poland (2nd place) and Madrid, Spain (3rd place). Its top marks included:
- Women Peace and Security Index: 0.868/1
- Hotel ratings: 4.26/5
- TikTok travel content popularity: 35.7 million hashtags
- Daily average travel cost: $289
Sara Boisvert, Director of Marketing at InsureMyTrip, noted: “To accomplish this, we standardised the latest available data across safety, gender equality, and travel experience categories to help solo female travellers make informed decisions.”
Safety and infrastructure
Dubai’s strong law enforcement framework, world-class infrastructure, and high standards of urban cleanliness have made it an especially attractive destination for solo female travellers. Public transport facilities like the metro, trams, and buses feature designated women-only sections, further enhancing the sense of security. Well-lit streets, a visible police presence, and extensive surveillance contribute to the city’s safe environment even during late hours.
Visitors to Dubai frequently explore areas such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach, Downtown Dubai, and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood with ease, taking advantage of the city’s extensive public transport network connected through the Nol card system. The city’s strong emphasis on multiculturalism ensures that visitors from diverse backgrounds find it welcoming and easy to navigate, with English widely spoken alongside Arabic and other international languages.
Solo travel trends
The global surge in solo travel, particularly among women, has seen Dubai become a preferred choice for those seeking both adventure and peace of mind. Industry data indicates that bookings for solo travel to Dubai have risen between 20 to 25 per cent year-on-year, especially among young professionals and digital nomads. New initiatives such as UAE Assist, launched by private sector organisations, offer real-time traveller support, further enhancing the solo travel experience.
For first-time solo travellers, Dubai’s combination of safety, accessibility, and diverse experiences makes it an ideal destination. Visitors can indulge in activities ranging from spa treatments and fine dining to desert safaris and heritage tours, all within a framework designed for maximum comfort and security. Public places, shopping malls, and entertainment venues maintain a high level of security, ensuring peace of mind at every stage of the journey.
Inclusive experiences
Dubai offers a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury that appeals to solo travellers seeking unique experiences. A walk through Dubai Creek’s bustling souks, a culinary adventure across global cuisines, or a sunset view from the Burj Khalifa all highlight the city's diverse offerings.
The city’s tourism ecosystem caters to various budgets, offering luxury hotels, mid-range accommodations, and affordable hostels that are all held to stringent safety standards. Public spaces are meticulously maintained, while the traffic culture remains disciplined, further adding to the city’s appeal. Round-the-clock surveillance, accessible public transport, and an abundance of tourist-friendly amenities ensure that solo female travellers can explore the city freely and safely at any hour.