While doing my work at a cafe, I once left my laptop unattended because I had to use the washroom on the other side of the mall. Knowing ‘Dubai,’ I was confident no one will take it. After about 5 minutes, it’s still there.
I couldn’t count the number of times I left my car unlocked overnight in public parking, with my wallet in it, and still find everything there the next morning.
There were times we unknowingly left our front door unlocked overnight – nothing happened.
We’ve had 3 times our phone and wallet were returned by taxi drivers after leaving them in the cab.
Dubai, I believe, is a place where pickpockets do not exist – based on my personal experience.
BUT… with numerous stories circulating in private groups, is Dubai still safe from petty unlawful acts?
I believe it is still ‘generally’ safe out there. But maybe it is not as flawlessly safe as it was before, that when you ask me, I wouldn’t leave my laptop unattended anymore. And just like anywhere else in the world, I would be more mindful about what’s going on in my surroundings.
These days, I feel more unsafe online – in WhatsApp, on Messenger – for scams. I think this is an area where we need to be extra vigilant.
Do you have any similar experiences?
