Dubai, a city of luxury, tradition, and adventure, is the perfect destination for female solo travelers. Known for its welcoming environment, safety, and world-class amenities, Dubai offers a mix of thrilling activities, cultural experiences, and opportunities for relaxation. Whether you want to shop till you drop, explore the desert, or immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, Dubai has something for every traveler. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five things to do in Dubai, with a special focus on shopping, including the city’s best outlet malls.
1. Visit the Burj Khalifa
Start your Dubai adventure by visiting the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Ride the high-speed elevator to the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors for jaw-dropping views of the cityscape, desert, and Arabian Gulf. Afterward, explore the surrounding Burj Khalifa Park and catch the famous Dubai Fountain show, which features dancing water jets synchronized to music and lights.
Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
How to Reach: Take the Dubai Metro’s Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, it’s a short walk to the tower entrance.
2. Shop at Dubai Mall, Outlet Malls, and Explore the Gold Souk
Dubai is a shopping mecca, offering a mix of luxurious malls, traditional souks, and outlet malls for bargain hunters.
- Dubai Mall: As one of the largest malls in the world, Dubai Mall offers an unparalleled shopping experience with luxury brands, high-street fashion, electronics, and more. In addition to shopping, you can visit the Dubai Aquarium, the indoor ice rink, and the immersive VR Park. It’s a destination in itself!
- Outlet Malls: If you’re looking for high-end brands at discounted prices, Dubai Outlet Mall and The Outlet Village are a must-visit. The Dubai Outlet Mall offers over 240 stores, including designer brands at up to 90% off. The Outlet Village, designed with a Tuscan-inspired look, offers a luxurious outlet shopping experience with stores like Coach, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren at discounted rates.
- Gold Souk: In the heart of Old Dubai, the Gold Souk is a traditional market where you’ll find shops filled with exquisite gold jewelry and precious stones. Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth visiting for its vibrant atmosphere and the experience of seeing traditional bargaining in action.
Location:
- Dubai Mall: Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Outlet Mall: Al Ain Road, Route 66, Dubai
- The Outlet Village: Jebel Ali, Dubai
- Gold Souk: Deira, Old Dubai
How to Reach:
- Dubai Mall: Take the Red Line metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station.
- Dubai Outlet Mall: Best reached by taxi or a ride-hailing service as it’s located outside the main city area. There’s also a dedicated shuttle service from key hotels in Dubai.
- The Outlet Village: Take the Dubai Metro Red Line to Ibn Battuta Mall station, then a taxi or shuttle to the Outlet Village.
- Gold Souk: Take the Dubai Metro Green Line to Al Ras Station, or take an abra (traditional boat) from Bur Dubai to Deira.
3. Take a Desert Safari
For an adventurous escape, head to the desert for an exciting safari. You can enjoy dune bashing in a 4×4, ride a camel across the golden dunes, and try your hand at sandboarding. Most desert safaris also include a delicious barbecue dinner and traditional entertainment like belly dancing and Tanoura shows under the stars.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve or Lahbab Desert
How to Reach: Desert safari tours generally offer pickup and drop-off services from your hotel, so it’s very convenient for solo travelers. Just book a reputable tour operator in advance.
4. Explore the Spice Souk and Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
For a taste of traditional Dubai, visit the Spice Souk and the historic Al Fahidi Neighborhood.
- Spice Souk: Located near the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk is filled with the scents of exotic spices, dried fruits, herbs, and incense. It’s the perfect place to shop for traditional souvenirs and experience the bustling market atmosphere.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: One of the oldest parts of Dubai, Al Fahidi is a cultural hub featuring narrow alleyways, traditional courtyard houses, and wind towers. Explore art galleries, cultural centers, and cafés, and visit the Dubai Museum to get a glimpse of life in Dubai before the skyscrapers.
Location:
- Spice Souk: Deira, Old Dubai
- Al Fahidi: Bur Dubai
How to Reach:
- Spice Souk: Take the Dubai Metro Green Line to Al Ras Station.
- Al Fahidi: Take the Dubai Metro Green Line to Al Fahidi Station, or take an abra from Deira to Bur Dubai.
5. Relax at Jumeirah Beach
After a busy day of shopping and sightseeing, head to Jumeirah Beach for some relaxation. The beach offers clear blue waters, soft white sands, and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. It’s a great spot to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports like paddleboarding. With several beachside cafés and restaurants, you can easily spend an afternoon unwinding here.
Location: Jumeirah, Dubai
How to Reach: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are the most convenient ways to get to Jumeirah Beach. Alternatively, you can take the metro to the nearest station and transfer to a taxi or bus.
Dubai is a fantastic destination for female solo travelers, offering an array of activities from luxury shopping to traditional markets and exciting adventures. Whether you’re looking to splurge in Dubai Mall or score great deals at the outlet malls, the shopping scene is unparalleled. After a thrilling desert safari, visiting the Gold Souk, or soaking in the sun at Jumeirah Beach, Dubai guarantees a fulfilling and safe experience, making it a perfect getaway for solo adventurers.
At times, money is not the only aspect that makes travelling fun and adventurous. What is left behind on a vacation is a series of memories. And, memories can be acquired without burning a hole in the pocket. Thus, being a female solo traveller is no more about counting money every single minute. Now, you can have fun and make wonderful memories that you can take back from your solo trip to Dubai and take a look at the best places in Dubai where you do not have to spend a penny.
Things to Do As A Female Solo Travelers In Dubai FAQs
1. Are there free yoga classes available in Dubai for fitness enthusiasts?
1. Yes, there are many clubs running free yoga classes in Dubai.
2. Where can I watch a movie for free in Dubai?
2. The Pyramids Rooftop Complex, located within the Wafi Complex is the best place to watch free outdoor movie in Dubai.
3. Why is Camel museum popular?
3. The museum houses different timelines on the relationship development of humans and camels.
4. Why are souks famous in Dubai?
4. Souks in Dubai offers various goods such as gold, spices, perfumes, etc.
