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How Dubai hotels, Airbnb make vacations safer for solo female travellers
Research revealed that 71% of solo travellers are women, with nearly half — around 47% — being divorced, separated, or widowed
- PUBLISHED: Mon 31 Mar 2025, 5:30 AM
The trend of independent female travel is on the rise, with a growing number of women across all age groups embracing solo and adventurous trips, according to a new survey.
A recent study highlighted this growing movement, often referred to as the “Wander Women” trend. Research from Virtuoso revealed that 71 per cent of its solo travellers are women, with nearly half — around 47 per cent — being divorced, separated, or widowed.
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Experts attribute this shift to increasing financial independence, enhanced safety measures driven by technology, and a deep-rooted desire to explore the world one one's terms. Dubai, consistently ranked among the safest cities for solo female travellers, has become a key destination catering to this trend.
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Recognising this growing demand, hotels and travel providers in Dubai are tailoring their offerings to meet the unique needs of solo female travellers.
“Our hotels in Dubai offer several specific amenities and services designed to ensure the safety and comfort of solo female travellers. These include dedicated floors that can only be accessed by female guests, providing an added layer of security," explained Rana Saab, complex director of marketing and communications, Al Jaddaf Rotana.
She noted that while they don't have a specific women-only floor, they are "extremely considerate in allocating female travellers to a separate floor".
She also underlined that female concierge services like personalised services offered by female staff members cater to the specific needs of solo female travellers.
"Features such as round-the-clock security, peepholes, double locks, and in-room safes provide peace of mind," she added, noting that that they also offer exclusive wellness and spa packages available only to female guests.
Personalised service
Hotels in Dubai are also focusing on cultural awareness, enabling them to offer respectful and informed service to female travellers from diverse backgrounds.
Employees are trained in emergency procedures and protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests, with particular attention to the needs of solo female travellers.
“Our team undergoes comprehensive hospitality training, with a strong emphasis on cultural awareness, guest privacy, and security protocols. We ensure that solo female travellers feel respected and at ease throughout their stay," said Mohamed El Aghoury, multi-property general manager for Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort (JBR).
He noted that their staff is also trained to provide personalised service and discreet assistance, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met with care, professionalism, and sensitivity.
“Upon request, we can arrange for female room attendants, and our concierge team is available to offer tailored recommendations on women-friendly experiences in Dubai. Our spa also features exclusive treatments designed to cater to female guests seeking rejuvenation and relaxation," he added.
Special packages for travellers
For fitness enthusiasts, several hotels now offer women-only workout sessions, gym access, and pool passes.
“Solo food lovers can experience communal dining options, allowing them to meet like-minded travellers in a relaxed and friendly setting. Our tailored recreation experiences for women guests include - Ladies Shisha Night, Sol Brunch, Poolside Happy Hour, Curry Nights," said a spokesperson at the Vida Hotels and Resorts.
"We also assist with transportation arrangements, recommending trusted travel partners and private drivers to enhance security and comfort. Whether a guest needs assistance with an itinerary, restaurant reservations, or local experiences, our staff is trained to provide thoughtful and discreet service.”
Even short-term rental providers are adapting to the trend. Leading Airbnb operators in Dubai are designing specialised packages for female travellers, ensuring both safety and comfort.
“We offer curated ‘Wander Women’ packages that include guided cultural tours with female guides, wellness services at the comfort of our homes, personal styling/shopping sessions, and culinary experiences with female chefs," said Shilpa Mahtani, co-founder and managing director of bnbme Holiday Homes by Hoteliers. She noted that these are designed to offer solo female travellers both independence and a community feeling during their stay.
"Our goal is to make each solo guest feel like they have a home away from home — where they can relax, explore, and create lasting memories in complete confidence," Shilpa added.
