For many Kenyan women, traveling for vacation and business abroad is more than just a dream; it’s the first step towards a new chapter filled with opportunity and adventure. The sense of possibilities seems endless.
This yearning for exploration is part of a larger global trend – the rise of solo female travel. As travellers explore more cities, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, has emerged as a frontrunner, consistently ranking high as a top city for solo female explorers.
According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international overnight visitors from January to December 2024, with Africa accounting for a substantial 20 percent. But beyond these impressive statistics, what makes Dubai particularly appealing to Kenyan women, specifically?
The answer, in part, lies in Dubai’s reputation as one of the safest cities for women in the Middle East. The city boasts stringent laws protecting women from harassment, and incidents involving solo female tourists are rare. Dubai offers a range of services designed for women’s comfort and safety, including pink-roofed taxis driven by women, ladies-only sections in public transport, and female staff in customer-facing roles. High surveillance in public spaces further enhances the sense of security.
This emphasis on safety is a key factor for many female travellers, as Sara Boisvert, Director of Marketing at InsureMyTrip, points out. InsureMyTrip ranked Dubai as the top city for solo female travellers in March this year, noting its high scores for ‘feeling safe walking alone at night’ (83.11/100), ‘feeling safe despite gender’ (86.23/100), and ‘quality of things to do’ (4.58/5).
“As more women embrace solo travel, safety remains a top priority,” said Boisvert. “While cities like Dubai and Krakow are leading the way in creating secure and inclusive experiences, it’s crucial for travellers to stay informed and prepared. With the right planning, solo female travellers can explore the world with confidence and empowerment.”
While it’s always advisable to dress modestly and avoid walking alone late at night, Dubai’s commitment to safety provides peace of mind for female travellers.
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But Dubai’s appeal extends beyond safety; the city is also making strides in creating an inclusive environment for all travellers. Dubai has been officially recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere, and Dubai International Airport (DXB) has earned recognition as the first international airport to be a Certified Autism Centre, with over 45,000 employees trained to support travellers with hidden disabilities. More than 300 hotels and 15 attractions have undergone training and certification processes to ensure comfortable and inclusive stays. This commitment to accessibility makes Dubai an attractive destination for a wider range of travellers, including visitors with disabilities.
To further support inclusivity, all certified locations in Dubai are featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, providing travellers with real-time guidance on sensory-friendly spaces and tailored recommendations.
Whether it’s exploring the historic Al Fahidi district, indulging in a desert safari, or marvelling at the Burj Khalifa, Dubai offers something for every solo female traveller. With its unwavering commitment to safety, inclusivity, and economic partnership with Kenya, Dubai is not just a destination; it’s an empowering haven where solo female Kenyan travellers can confidently pursue their dreams and create unforgettable memories.