Sand, Souks, and Solitude: Top Things to Do Alone in Dubai
Fun Fact: Did you know that you can rent a Lamborghini with a chauffeur in Dubai? It’s one of the flashy ways the city flaunts its luxe lifestyle.
You might be traveling alone, but with the city’s larger-than-life attractions, you’ll find yourself in the company of towering skyscrapers, sun-kissed beaches, and maybe a camel or two!
Read on as we share our tips and tricks on how to make the most of your solo trip.
Benefits of Solo Travel in Dubai
Solo travel in Dubai is all the rage lately because its perks include having a free pass to do whatever you want, whenever you want. No need to compromise on your plans—it’s all about you!
Dubai is like a solo traveler’s dream playground. It’s got that incredible mix of city vibes and tons of different things to check out. Going solo isn’t just about fun—it’s also a challenge to level up your skills!
We think you’ll surprise yourself, gain confidence, and become a pro at navigating new places. The best part? You get to dive headfirst into the local scene.
No distractions, just you soaking up the culture, munching on authentic grub, and jumping into cool cultural stuff.
It’s also a journey of self-discovery, where you can explore your interests without compromising with your travel buddies. So, why wait? Dubai’s calling, and it’s time for your solo adventure!
Tips for Solo Travelers in Dubai
Dubai’s a solo traveler’s paradise, with options for every taste and budget. Check out these tips to make the most of your Dubai adventure:
Respect the vibes. Dress modestly, especially at religious spots. Ladies, cover those shoulders and knees, and guys, ditch the shorts in public. Keep it classy!
Ensure your safety. Dubai’s safe, but be savvy. No solo night strolls! Stick to licensed cabs or public transport. Keep your valuables secure—you know the drill.
Experience the ultimate shopping spree. Dive into shopping heaven at the Dubai Mall. Luxury or local, it’s all there. Plus, there’s an aquarium, an ice rink, a cinema, and a VR park. Don’t skip the Dubai Fountain show—it’s a real dazzler!
Marvel at the stunning sky views. Conquer the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper. Book online early and pick sunrise or sunset for epic views.
Embark on a desert safari. Spice up your trip with a desert safari. Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding—it’s an Arabian night to remember, complete with a BBQ dinner under the stars.
Enjoy the historical vibes. Time-travel at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Wind-tower houses, museums, and a stroll along Dubai Creek. Take an abra to spice and gold souks for some bargains.
Learn from the cultural quest. Connect with locals at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Join a cultural meal, a mosque visit, or a heritage tour. Ask away about Emirati life and savor some legit Emirati dishes.
Relax in beach bliss. Chill at Jumeirah Beach or Kite Beach. Go public or splurge on private beaches. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden or pose at the Dubai Frame for killer views.
Remember, this is just the tip of the Burj Khalifa! Check out the Dubai Calendar for events or snag a Dubai Pass for discounts. However you roll, the city is waiting to make your solo trip a blast!
Best Accommodations for Solo Travelers in Dubai
Dubai’s got solo stays for every vibe and wallet size. Take your pick from the hotels, resorts, apartments, or hostels, and soak up their perks. Here’s a lineup of the best options:
25hours Hotel Dubai One Central
Address: Trade Centre, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 210 2525
Pricing: $$
25-hour Hotel Dubai One Central is a fancy getaway alone in Dubai, with a rooftop pool, a cool bar, and a place to get some work done. It’s a 5-star spot near the Dubai World Trade Centre with a stylish vibe inspired by Bedouin culture.
It’s super close to cool places like the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Museum of the Future, and it’s right by the subway!
Additionally, it’s around $150 a night, and you can choose from 434 rooms with king-sized beds and fancy rainfall showers. Foodies will also love the five restaurants and bars serving various global flavors.
If you need a spot for work or events, they’ve got flexible spaces. And here’s a nice touch—you can even rent Schindelhauer e-bikes!
Now, here’s the cool part: the Extra Hour Spa. It’s got an outdoor fitness area and Dubai’s first rooftop sauna—how awesome is that? The vibe mixes city and desert, and the rooftop pool gives you killer views of the Museum of the Future.
And don’t forget to check out the lobby store. It has many fabulous books, mags, and local souvenirs. Prices may vary, but a standard room is usually around AED 400 a night.
W Dubai – Mina Seyahi
Address: Dubai Marina
Phone: +971 4 350 9999
Pricing: $$$
W Dubai – Mina Seyahi is a Dubai spa with a chill resort vibe, a private beach, a spa that’ll leave you feeling like royalty, and a poolside scene that defines lively.
This 5-star haven is right on the gorgeous Jumeirah Beach coast, and it’s all about catering to the 16-and-above crew.
Imagine 318 rooms and suites decked out with king-sized beds, flat-screen TVs, and balconies giving you killer sea views. And when it comes to dining, they’ve covered you with five spots serving up flavors from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Now, let’s talk playtime. There’s a rooftop pool with live DJs and a killer skyline view, plus The Bar-B Spa offers treatments that’ll have you feeling like a million bucks.
Feeling adventurous? They’ve got e-bikes and water sports gear for exploring the beach and the city.
But if you’re here for work or just need a spot to brainstorm, they’ve got flexible event and co-working spaces with all the modern goodies. Prices can swing based on what you’re after, but a standard room usually costs around AED 500 a night.
Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel
Address: Dubai International Airport, Garhoud, Dubai
Phone: +971 600 500503
Pricing: $
The Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel is a convenient and comfortable place to stay if you’re traveling alone in Dubai. It’s just minutes from the airport terminals and offers free shuttle service, Wi-Fi, and parking.
Just a quick 10-minute drive from the airport, it’s a breeze to get to City Centre Deira and Dubai Festival City Mall with their complimentary shuttles.
Now, let’s talk about what you get. There are 281 rooms with free WiFi and bonus perks like a rooftop pool, hot tub, gym, business center, and laundry service.
Feeling hungry? Say no more. The Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel has your back with a Nuevo restaurant, a pub, and a coffee shop dishing out a mix of delicious cuisines and drinks.
Imagine this: Kabsa, or Machboos, a flavorful dish with spiced rice, meat, and veggies. And for the Brit classics, head to Mr. Toad’s Pub & Kitchen for fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash.
Next, let’s talk money. The price tag depends on when you book, the kind of room you want, and where you book it, but on average, you’re looking at around AED 200 per night for a standard double room.
The vibe is modern and cozy, with some rooms offering runway views. This seems excellent whether you’re a business pro, part of a family squad, a jet-setting passenger, or just on the lookout for a chill stay.
Activities for Solo Travelers in Dubai
Dubai’s a solo traveler’s playground with tons to do! If you’re all about adventure, culture, or just devouring delicious food, this city’s got your back. Check out these top picks:
Visit the Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and a symbol of their big dreams and cool ideas for those traveling alone in Dubai.
For one, there are 828 meters of architectural awesomeness. It’s the tallest building on the planet! With 163 floors, it’s like a vertical city with offices, homes, hotels, restaurants—the whole shebang.
For the real wow factor, head over to the At the Top or SKY levels. From there, you get mind-blowing views of the city and the desert. And don’t miss the fountain show—it’s among the world’s grandest water dances!
And here’s a bonus adventure waiting at ground level: dive into the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo! Here, you can shark dive and snorkel to your heart’s content.
Explore the Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is your one-stop shop for all things fabulous in Dubai! It’s a shopping haven with a whopping 1200+ stores, from fancy brands to cute local souvenirs.
But it’s not just about the shopping spree. This place cranks out the fun with cool stuff like the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink, so lace up those skates!
Then there’s the VR Park, where you can dive into mind-blowing virtual reality games and rides. And for the little adventurers, there’s KidZania, where kids learn and play in a make-believe city.
Discover the Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah Beach is one of the most fantastic hotspots for solo travelers in Dubai. It’s a mega-long stretch of silky sand, kissed by turquoise waves, and surrounded by skyscrapers and palm tree pals.
So, what’s the scoop? You can kick back, soak up the sun, and splash around in the warm water.
Feeling adventurous? You may also dive into water fun like surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, or kayaking—it’s a watery playground!
But there’s more! Check out Jumeirah Beach Park, a green oasis in the desert, complete with picnic spots and play areas.
And if you’re into a lively scene, swing by Jumeirah Beach Residence too to enjoy the vibrant retail and dining options along the 1.7-kilometer promenade.
You can also glimpse the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, the Ain Dubai, on the nearby Bluewaters Island.
Experience the Desert Safari
The desert safari is a turbo-charged exploration of the fantastic Arabian desert for solo adventurers in Dubai.
Picture yourself cruising over dunes like a sand rollercoaster, hopping on camels for a ride, and tackling sandboarding without wiping it out. Plus, you may cap it off with a swanky Bedouin dinner featuring live entertainment.
Another cool thing is that you get to pick up your desert chariot. Will it be an intimidating 4×4, a quick quad bike, or a buggy that functions similarly to a sand go-kart? Your call!
Moreover, you may catch the sunset, gaze at the stars, and groove to a fire show.
Feeling artsy? Try out henna painting. Fancy some smoke? There’s shisha, a way of smoking tobacco through a bowl with a hose or tube joined on.
You may also try falconry—the art and practice of training and flying birds of prey, such as falcons and hawks. Because why not? It’s like a desert carnival, but way more relaxed.
Shop at the Traditional Souks
Shopping at the traditional souks is a rewarding experience for solo explorers. These markets in Deira and Bur Dubai offer a glimpse into Dubai’s rich heritage and culture and a chance to find unique souvenirs and bargains.
Think spices, gold, textiles, perfumes, and souvenirs—it’s a shopping spree of authentic and exotic goodies. Plus, the atmosphere is pure old Dubai charm.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on an abra, a swanky term for a traditional wooden boat, and cruise the Dubai Creek. It’s like a two-for-one deal—explore both sides of the souk without sweating!
Also, why not do some shopping and get on a boat ride for a day well spent? Dive into the rich tapestry of Dubai’s history and culture, one market at a time.
Safety Tips for Solo Dubai Travelers
Traveling alone in Dubai? Why not? Just a heads-up for a smooth ride in this vibrant city:
Choose smart outfits. Dubai’s got a dress code, so think conservative. Save the revealing outfits for another time, especially when hitting up places like mosques, malls, and souks.
Ladies, it’s best to cover your shoulders, knees, and chests in this city. And gents, we recommend ditching the shorts and sleeveless gear.
Stick with your buddy. Dubai’s safe, but why not make it safer? Stick to groups or pairs, especially after sunset. Need a ride? Opt for official cabs with meters or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem.
Watch out for danger. In some corners of Dubai, eye contact might be misunderstood. To dodge any confusion, keep those eyes wandering anywhere but towards strangers, especially in conservative spots.
Avoid risky activities. Prostitution is a no-go, so steer clear of places in Dubai that might be fishy. Skip shady bars and clubs, and if in doubt, locals are the best tour guides.
Drink responsibly. Booze is on Dubai’s restricted list, and you’ll need a license to sip it. Only toast is allowed in licensed spots like hotels or restaurants. Watch your drinks like hawks—no accepting from strangers, and never abandon your glass!
Stay hydrated. Dubai’s a hot oven, so drink up! Always carry water and energy drinks; tap water is a gamble. Keep cool during the sizzling summers, and avoid turning into a human barbecue during peak sun hours.
Pack a med kit. Dubai’s got top-notch healthcare, but a first-aid kit is like a travel superhero. It’s best to be prepared for a tummy ache or any minor crisis. But some meds need a prescription, so it’s advisable to check in advance.