United Arab Emirates: Beauty Meets Boundaries
With futuristic cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE is a glamorous, high-end destination. But beneath the surface lies a legal framework that criminalises same-sex relationships, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.
Despite its tough laws, many LGBT+ travellers still visit the UAE for business, luxury holidays, and world-class resorts. Private villas, discreet service, and international hospitality brands create an environment where tourists can relax—if they know how to navigate it carefully.
Booking with an experienced agent who understands these nuances is crucial.
How Gay Friendly is the UAE?
- Legality of Homosexuality: Same-sex sexual activity is illegal.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Not recognised.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: None protecting sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Employment Protections: No protections for LGBT+ workers.
- Age of Consent: Equal in theory, but irrelevant due to criminalisation.
- Public Opinion: Conservative. Public displays of affection, even among straight couples, are discouraged.
There are no exclusively gay properties in the UAE. However, international luxury hotels often train staff in inclusive service for a global clientele.
You can check for available offers on premium Dubai resorts by speaking to us directly—we’ll always discreetly match you with LGBT-welcoming properties.
Jamaica: Paradise with a Price
Jamaica conjures images of reggae rhythms, turquoise waters, and lush mountain ranges. But for LGBT+ travellers, this island paradise can come with significant risks. While tourism is a major part of the economy, attitudes towards same-sex relationships remain deeply conservative.
Violence and harassment against LGBT+ individuals have been widely reported, especially outside of resort areas. That said, there are inclusive resorts and safe zones—particularly in private, adult-only luxury properties—where staff are trained to deliver respectful and discreet service.
If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean escape, Jamaica may still be an option, but only with careful planning and expert guidance.
How Gay Friendly is Jamaica?
- Legality of Homosexuality: Male same-sex activity remains criminalised under colonial-era laws; female same-sex activity is legal.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Not recognised.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: None.
- Employment Protections: No workplace protections for LGBT+ staff.
- Age of Consent: Unequal—legal age varies depending on gender and orientation.
- Public Opinion: Hostile in many areas. A deeply religious culture fuels widespread social stigma.
Jamaica does not have any exclusively gay hotels, but select all-inclusive resorts along the coast offer secluded luxury and have developed reputations for welcoming gay travellers. We work closely with a few of these discreetly LGBT-friendly properties to offer safe and serene holiday options.
Egypt: Ancient Wonders, Modern Challenges
Egypt’s awe-inspiring monuments, bustling bazaars, and Nile river cruises draw in millions of tourists every year. But the country’s record on LGBT+ rights is troubling. Same-sex relations are not explicitly outlawed, but vague public morality laws are frequently used to target LGBT+ individuals. Arrests, police entrapment, and social stigma are all real risks.
Despite this, LGBT+ tourists still travel to Egypt—particularly on group tours or within luxury hotel circuits that are used to international guests. Privacy, discretion, and well-organised itineraries are key.
How Gay Friendly is Egypt?
- Legality of Homosexuality: Not specifically illegal, but people are often prosecuted under public morality laws.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Not recognised.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: None protecting sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Employment Protections: None.
- Age of Consent: Equal, but law enforcement is often uneven.
- Public Opinion: Generally hostile. Many LGBT+ Egyptians live closeted lives due to widespread stigma.
There are no openly gay hotels or bars in Egypt. But top-tier hotels in Cairo and along the Nile are used to serving a global clientele and tend to offer privacy and security.
Speak to us about luxury resort options in Egypt if you’d like to explore this extraordinary destination while keeping your safety and comfort a top priority.
Nigeria: Travel with Caution and Clarity
Nigeria is known for its vibrant culture, music scene, and natural beauty—but it’s also one of the most dangerous countries in the world for LGBT+ individuals. Same-sex activity is criminalised, and in some northern states under Sharia law, it can carry the death penalty. Even public support for LGBT+ rights is criminalised under the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act.
For this reason, travel to Nigeria as an openly LGBT+ individual requires extreme caution. We do not generally recommend it for leisure holidays unless absolutely necessary, or unless travelling on specific business, humanitarian, or cultural delegations.
That said, if Nigeria is a must-visit due to family, research, or professional obligations, Wide Awake Holidays can help construct a trip with the strictest safety and privacy considerations.
How Gay Friendly is Nigeria?
- Legality of Homosexuality: Criminalised under federal law; punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. In 12 northern states, the penalty under Sharia law is death.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Explicitly banned.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: None.
- Employment Protections: None.
- Age of Consent: Irrelevant due to criminalisation.
- Public Opinion: Extremely hostile. Surveys show strong societal rejection of LGBT+ identities.
There are no known gay-friendly or inclusive properties operating openly in Nigeria. Travel here should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. If a visit is essential, contact us for expert guidance in navigating the risks.
Maldives: Seclusion and Strategy
The Maldives is one of the most beautiful places on earth, with private overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, and world-class diving. It’s also a country where same-sex relations are criminalised under Islamic law.
And yet, many LGBT+ travellers still choose the Maldives. Why? Because most resorts are located on their own private islands, and the tourist industry is well-versed in international norms. Staff in luxury properties are typically trained to treat all guests with respect—regardless of who they love.
Discretion is key. Avoid public displays of affection outside of private areas, and stay within resort boundaries where possible.
How Gay Friendly is the Maldives?
- Legality of Homosexuality: Illegal under Sharia law.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Not recognised.
- Anti-Discrimination Laws: None.
- Employment Protections: None.
- Age of Consent: Not clearly defined for same-sex relationships.
- Public Opinion: Conservative. Maldivian society remains largely traditional and religious.
There are no exclusively gay resorts in the Maldives, but many 5-star resorts offer total privacy, world-class service, and an unspoken policy of non-interference. Wide Awake Holidays can help you choose a property where you can truly relax.
Check with us for current offers on Maldives packages designed with discretion and luxury in mind.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Even in non-gay-friendly destinations, your right to travel doesn’t disappear. It just takes thoughtful planning, insider knowledge, and a trusted partner. At Wide Awake Holidays, we don’t just tick boxes—we take care of the details that matter to LGBT+ travellers.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break in a luxurious resort, a cultural adventure in a complex destination, or somewhere discreetly welcoming, we’ve got you covered. And with financial protection built in—including ATOL cover, PTS membership, and failure insurance—you can book with full peace of mind.
Call us on 01495 400947 to start planning your next holiday, or use our holiday enquiry form on the website and let us build the perfect escape for you.
