I am in Dubai right now and I must say, if it werent for the double writing on signs I would not think this was not the US--it is some mix of orlando and vegas. I would not worry ONE BIT about Dubai. From what I've gathered, most of the surrounding areas are not quite as cosmopolitan and well... wild as Dubai, but there are so many tourists all around the biggest threat is getting ripped off in a souk! If youre going in October there will be more tourists so you would be even more blended in. Come!

There are more expats in UAE than locals. I'll agree that Dubai is a cross between Miami and Vegas.

The only thing that could be considered as unsafe is the driving.

Definitely do Khasab/Musandam, you'll regret it if you don't. As fun/ interesing as Dubai is, it's incredible boring after a few days.

Yeah, I forgot about the drivers. Sometimes brake lights in front of the car mean to them 'hit the gas.' I'm amazed there arent more real wrecks here as everyone drives really fast and always comes close to hitting each other.

One good day and you can get a feel for the city of Dubai. Go to one or two of the bigger malls (mall of emirates, bur jurman, ibn batutta)

Yeah, I forgot about the drivers. Sometimes brake lights in front of the car mean to them 'hit the gas.' I'm amazed there arent more real wrecks here as everyone drives really fast and always comes close to hitting each other.

One good day and you can get a feel for the city of Dubai. Go to one or two of the bigger malls (mall of emirates, bur jurman, ibn batutta), depending on how much you want to buy. Maybe go to the souks in the afternoon/evening. Then go to the desert your other night here.

Hi Bronwyn --

I'm going to Oman (alone) in November before moving on to Dubai. I look forward to hearing about your impressions of traveling there -- safety, etc.

I've scoured the internet -- have yet to uncover any information that going there solo (when done intelligently) would be ill-advised.

Thanks in advance,
Mitzy

Thank you everyone so much for your help! You've made my planning a lot easier. I was a little concerned I was trying to fit too much in with a day trip to Oman, but it doesn't sound like it, which is wonderful!
I appreciate the tips!
I'll give you details of my trip when I get back Mitzy!