A recent study by Travelbag, a UK-based travel agency, has ranked Dubai as the third most scenic city in the world after dark, while Abu Dhabi secured the 12th position. The report emphasizes both cities in the United Arab Emirates as global leaders in nighttime beauty and safety for those exploring after sunset.

The study evaluated various factors, including nightlife offerings and the quality of the urban environment during the night. Dubai features 190 venues that remain open late, catering to night owls and tourists seeking evening entertainment. Despite its vibrant nightlife, Dubai faces challenges with noise and light pollution, achieving a score of 52.58 out of 100 on this scale.

Conversely, Abu Dhabi has a smaller number of late-night venues, with 62 establishments open after hours. The city recorded a slightly lower pollution rating of 47, indicating a quieter and less intense nighttime atmosphere.

This report highlights a growing trend known as “noctourism,” which focuses on travel experiences designed for after dark. Booking.com anticipates that nighttime travel will emerge as one of the top trends in 2025, as tourists increasingly seek unique adventures like stargazing in locations with minimal light pollution.

Dubai’s offerings are evolving to meet this trend, with many tours now dedicated exclusively to nighttime sightseeing. This change is a practical response to the city’s high daytime temperatures, allowing visitors to enjoy the spectacular cityscape illuminated by stars.

Late-night desert safaris have also become increasingly popular, with Travelbag’s research noting a 22 percent rise in searches for night safaris. Tourists are seeking cooler and more atmospheric experiences in the desert after sunset.

To further enhance nighttime activities, Dubai Municipality has introduced “night swimming” at three public beaches. This initiative allows residents and visitors to enjoy swimming and beach activities during the cooler night hours, avoiding the harsh daytime heat.

These efforts, combined with the bustling nightlife scene, illustrate Dubai’s commitment to making nighttime tourism safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. This detailed report was compiled from Travelbag’s latest study, as referenced by multiple news outlets covering travel and urban lifestyle trends.