The Middle East is a long way from being considered a safe haven for LGBT men and women, and Abu Dhabi is no exception. But, that doesn’t mean gay men and women can’t go there and have a good time.
Homosexuality is a criminal offense in Abu Dhabi and you can be imprisoned, fined or deported for being under suspicion of engaging in homosexual acts. But, the police aren’t exactly walking around looking for LGBT people to bust. Many LGBT live and love in Abu Dhabi without problem, but public displays of affection aren’t recommended.
Barasti and The Irish Village are two bars that have a reputation for being friendly toward LGBT customers, but you won’t find men and women making out on the dance floor.
It’s important to keep your wits about you in the city. Don’t engage in acts of PDA or hook up with locals, stick to Western establishments and, most importantly, if you’re traveling with a partner book a hotel room with separate beds. It’s illegal to share one in Abu Dhabi and could lead to trouble.
We’re not trying to scare you off — Abu Dhabi is a beautiful, exciting city with so much to see and explore. However, it might be best to forget about enjoying gay nightlife and culture while here and just enjoy the sights and food the city has to offer.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedTravel Goods
Nov 21, 2024Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature
It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America
You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Destinations
Nov 20, 2024What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?
Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Destinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland
This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.
ShareThis