For many Americans, the idea of women-only public spaces can sound startling, even exclusionary. We’re used to thinking about shared public spaces through the lens of equal access, so a women-only Metro car, gym, or waiting room may feel like a surprising idea. I understood that reaction before I moved to Dubai. But once I experienced these spaces for myself, I found them unexpectedly comforting: a chance to relax, feel at ease, and enjoy being around other women.
A private place to work out
I loved my 24-hour women-only gym. The gym had a mixed area upstairs and a women-only space downstairs, with access cards at the entrance and at the women’s door. That extra layer of privacy made me feel comfortable. I could work out whenever it suited me, including late at night, and enjoy a quiet space to myself.
A more relaxed Metro ride
I used the women-and-children cabin on the Dubai Metro every time I took the train. I tried the Gold cabin too, but I preferred the atmosphere in the women’s section. It felt more relaxed to me, and I liked sharing the space with other women. I could let my shoulders drop and enjoy the ride.
Sometimes a male visitor entered the cabin by mistake. I’d point out the signs or ask an employee to help guide him to the right place. I often found myself speaking up, which is simply my own style. It was reassuring to know the cabin was clearly designated and that staff could help when someone needed directions.
A calmer medical visit
The women’s waiting area at a medical center was another small comfort I appreciated. I had to go in for bloodwork for a visa renewal, an errand I wasn’t particularly excited about. The all-female section, female staff, and concierges who guided me through each step made the visit feel much calmer. I could sit and wait without feeling so observed in a setting that can already be uncomfortable.
A pink taxi, just in case
I also took a women’s taxi from the airport once. It was a pink van with a woman driving, and I thought it was fun to have that option. I was comfortable with male taxi drivers too, so I didn’t feel I needed a women driver every time.But, it was nice knowing the choice was there.
A little detail that made me smile
Sometimes at hotels and gyms, I would spot “no nudity” signs in the locker rooms. I found it funny, and it reminded me that people can have different ideas about modesty even in a same-gender space.
I also noticed warmth and affection among men with their friends, and a lovely sense of connection among women too. I can only speak to what I saw, but those moments stayed with me.
There was something sacred and beautiful about being able to relax among women. I felt grateful to have those spaces as an option in my daily life.
