Strict policies and harsh penalties enforced by the UAE government, which include deportation, have ensured that Abu Dhabi remains one of the safest places in the world. Most of the crimes that are reported are petty cases amongst the locals, and a few incidents of assault and murder within the expatriate community from the Indian subcontinent.

The western expatriate community has faced car thefts and house break-ins in the recent past, so it's advisable to take general precautions and keep homes and cars locked when not in use. Women expatriates need to exercise greater caution and maintain a conservative dress code so as to minimize the risk of harassment and sexual assault.

Drug trade in Abu Dhabi appears to be on the rise and the government is reacting with severe punishments to deter criminals.

Overall, Abu Dhabi is one of the safest places to live in and its people one of the most tolerant in the Muslim world. Not politically active, the locals have more business and economic development on their minds and exhibit no animosity towards expatriates.

In case of emergencies, ambulance services in Abu Dhabi can be called for at 998, and a specific request for an attending doctor must also be made if the case is serious.