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 FeedDestinations / North America
Oct 22, 2026Stay in This Restored 1920s School Campus
In Fayetteville, West Virginia, you can now stay in what was once the town’s high school and middle school, thanks to the opening of Hill Hall Hotel. The 40-guestroom boutique property stretches out over the 1923 high school and Mid-Century middle school buildings, retaining some of the original architecture and layout, while updating amenities to meet modern travelers’ needs.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
6 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid Before and After a Flight This Winter
An airplane’s cabin is already dry, but add in the winter climate and your skin practically begs for help. This season, keep skin healthy and moisturized by avoiding these six common mistakes when traveling:
Destinations / Europe
Oct 21, 2026Ease Into Autumn with Anantara’s European Wellness Retreats
Anantara Hotels & Resorts welcomes travelers to an autumnal escape with a collection of wellness experiences across its European properties. From hot mindful yoga and meditation to signature treatments like a Monoi Oil Body Wrap, these immersive retreats let guests unwind and rejuvenate as the seasons fade into one another.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Moments, Made to Keep
The Excellence Collection offers a curated collection of luxurious resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, promising exceptional experiences for every guest and taste. From upscale suite concepts to a plethora of gourmet dining options, from wellness experiences to curated activities, The Excellence Collection guarantees all this and more.
Surveys
Oct 21, 2026Business Travel Bigger Than Ever, According to New Hotels.com Study
While just a few years ago, the travel industry may’ve been worried about business travel returning to its pre-pandemic numbers, according to a new Hotels.com study, that worry is no more. Business travel is back — and even more, it’s busier than ever for some travelers.
ShareThis