The Middle East has many stereotypes, making you wonder what is life like in Dubai for women? How are women in Dubai treated? Can women in Dubai work and what is the office culture like for Dubai women? So whether you’re a female American expat or British expat or wherever you might be from! We’ve got you covered with what to expect if you choose to travel or live in Dubai!
If you’re looking for a guide on what to wear as a woman in Dubai, don’t worry! This article covers everything here so you can feel comfortable as a Dubai expat woman!
I first moved to Dubai in 2013, so I’ve experienced a lot over the years and seen the many way in which Dubai has changed! So I always make sure this article is kept up to date and has accurate information for you!
Does Dubai have women’s rights?
So despite what you may have seen on the news or media, Dubai is an extremely safe space for women and has many laws that help with gender equality such as legally women must receive equal pay to men. There are also programs for Emirati women to help them start businesses and help more Emirati women to achieve senior positions in various fields.
Is it safe to travel to Dubai as a woman?
Yes Dubai is extremely safe for women and is in fact safer than most Western countries and nations. You can happily travel solo as a female solo traveller in Dubai. It’s also been ranked as the world’s safest country for women to walk at night by Gallup’s Law and Order Report. Of course with any country you should take precautions but Dubai has a very high safety index overall and low crime rates.
Can a woman drive in Dubai?
Yes women can drive in Dubai, both as residents or tourists and have always been able to drive in Dubai as a female! If you already have an existing license from the US, UK or other European countries. You can easily convert your driving license to a UAE license once you have your Emirates ID by taking a medical test and paying a fee. You’ll also find women only taxis with female taxi drivers available in Dubai.
Saudi Arabia is next door to UAE and they recently allowed women to drive in 2018, so that may be why there is some confusion over whether women can drive in the UAE!
What is life in Dubai as a woman like?
Life in Dubai as a woman can be like any other country you would expect in the West, you have the freedom to enjoy your life and work. There are many opportunities in the work place and various activities for women. The sunny weather of Dubai is great to enjoy for most of the year and you can wear the typical outfits you would normally wear in a hot country.
For more information on the female dress code Dubai, check out my article covering what to wear where in Dubai!
What expat Dubai woman jobs are there?
Every job you can think of elsewhere in the world is available as a job for women in Dubai. So depending on your experience and sector, you can apply for similar roles to your home country. If you are moving with your husband and will be sponsored by him, then youn will need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to work.
For the best ways to find a job in Dubai, check out my other article here!
Can females drink in Dubai?
Yes females can drink in Dubai! The drinking laws of Dubai apply to both men and women equally. Tourists and residents regardless of gender can drink alcohol in Dubai. Surprisingly, Dubai can be very affordable for women, as you’ll find many venues participating in ladies nights where alcohol is either free or cheaper for women on selected nights.
If you want to know more about Dubai’s alcohol laws, check out my full guide here
Some other articles you may find helpful:
What can I wear as a woman in Dubai and what is the Dubai woman dress code?
Alcohol laws in Dubai; do I need a license? Can I get arrested? & More!
Is Dubai expensive to live? What is the cost of living in Dubai? Find out here
Thinking of moving to Dubai? Start here for all the guides to moving to Dubai
I hope this guide has helped you to feel more confident to travel to Dubai and what Dubai for women is like! So whether you’re considering to move or just want to enjoy an amazing vacation in Dubai! I wish you the best and safe travels!
