One of the main reasons why more and more people are emigrating to Dubai is the high level of security. Especially in direct comparison to numerous major cities in Europe, Dubai is not only factually but also subjectively perceived to be much safer.
But how safe is Dubai in everyday life and can you really use your luxury watch to reserve a beach lounger or leave your Macbook in the coffee shop when you go out to make a phone call?
This article deals factually with the issue of security in relation to crime in Dubai.
How high is the crime rate in Dubai?
In terms of crime, Dubai, together with Abu Dhabi and other Emirates cities, is one of the safest in the world. The latest statistics prove this very clearly. According to the Numbeo Crime Index, Dubai is ranked #4 as the safest city in the world in terms of crime.
As can be seen from the chart, Dubai is not only one of the safest cities in the world, but the country of the United Arab Emirates is particularly safe. After all, half of the cities in the UAE are in the top 10.
Why is Dubai so safe?
There are several reasons why Dubai is such a safe city and why you feel very safe.
This is primarily due to the strict laws that severely punish even minor offenses such as insults or hand gestures. Verbal or written insults via email or WhatsApp can lead to criminal charges, which are taken seriously. In the worst case, the penalty is a long prison sentence in one of the prisons in the desert. This is definitely one of the most unpleasant experiences and puts many people off. In addition, you are deported for major offenses and lose your visa. This is of course a threat to the livelihood of many who live and work here.
Another point is the police presence and accessibility. While in European cities you often have the feeling that the police are overwhelmed, in Dubai you are surprised how quickly the police react. In addition, the police have a high status and respect is a basic requirement. If you insult or behave offensively, you will be arrested immediately.
One of the most important points is also the crime clearance rate in Dubai. Due to the fact that the country is very digital and heavily monitored, crimes are solved quickly and safely. In addition, there is no escape across the borders, as land and air travel is strictly controlled. The borders with Oman, another GGC state, are also strictly monitored. The clearance rate is currently just under 90%.
Experience
In our personal experience, Dubai is extremely safe when it comes to crime. We have experienced numerous cases in recent years where things have been forgotten and then returned the same day or the next day. Classic cases such as phones, wallets and keys are usually always returned.
Attacks such as violence, robbery or burglary hardly ever occur and we personally have not experienced any. The only problem is that if you live in Dubai for too long, you get used to the security and become careless as soon as you travel back to Europe or other regions of the world.
FAQ
Below is an overview of frequently asked questions regarding security and crime in Dubai.
How safe is Dubai for women?
Dubai is extremely safe for women and children. Assaults on women are extremely rare and are severely punished. In practice, women will not have any problems in Dubai, even if they are out alone at night. You should only avoid certain districts such as Deira or Karama if you really want to be on the safe side.
Can you leave your Macbook in the café?
You shouldn't provoke it, but there's usually no problem if you leave your Macbook in a café to make a phone call outside, for example.
Can I leave my Rolex on the beach towel?
This is generally not a problem on tourist beaches (especially beach clubs). However, you should not do this in remote and public areas.
Summary
Dubai is a very safe city in terms of crime and one of the safest cities in the world for tourists and expats. Current statistics confirm this and show that security is guaranteed by the strict laws, high penalties and competence of the police. The experiments on social media in which luxury items are deliberately "forgotten" in public places can also be believed, as nothing is ever stolen in Dubai.
