Safest Countries in the Middle East [2024]
The Middle East is a region situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia, comprising countries with diverse cultures and histories. It’s an area of interest to the world with its authenticity, religious significance, and strategic location. Unfortunately, the region is also often associated with political instability, terrorism, and high crime rates.
According to the data suggested by the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2023 that’s prepared and published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are the safest countries in the region. These countries offer a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.
Top 5 Safest Countries in the Middle East
#5 Oman
Continent: Asia
Capital: Muscat
GDP Per Capita: 19.509,47 USD (2021)
Oman ranks the fifth safest country in the Middle East, with a score of 1.889 on the 2022 Global Peace Index, where it ranked the 64th safest country in the world, maintaining its position from the previous year.
Oman’s commitment to maintaining stability and focus on education and social development has helped to reduce poverty and improve overall living conditions, paving the way for a safe environment.
Oman has also established itself as a mediator in regional conflicts and maintains peaceful relations with neighboring countries. The country has a strong sense of community and hospitality, and crime rates are low compared to other Middle Eastern countries.
Why Is Oman Safe?
- Low crime rate
- Stable political situation
- Education level
- Strong sense of community
- Promotion of social progress
- Effective security measures
#4 The United Arab Emirates
Continent: Asia
Capital: Abu Dhabi
GDP Per Capita: 44.315,55 USD (2021)
The UAE is known for its diverse economy that is driven by the oil and gas industry, as well as trade, finance, and tourism.
According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, the UAE is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, ranking 60th with a score of 1.865. It has risen one rank compared to 2021 and ranks fourth safest in the region. The country is known for its strict laws and robust law enforcement measures, which help maintain low levels of crime and violence.
The UAE has a highly developed infrastructure, modern transportation systems, and advanced medical facilities, making it an attractive destination for expats. Hence, the country also has a diverse population, with residents from all over the world, contributing to its overall sense of safety and openness.
Why Is the United Arab Emirates Safe?
- Low crime rate
- Strict laws
- Stable political situation
- Solid law enforcement measures
#3. Jordan
Continent: Asia
Capital: Amman
GDP Per Capita: 4.103,26 USD (2021)
Despite its proximity to the conflict zones, Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. The country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, such as Jerash, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, have been well-preserved, with numberless archaeological and religious sites to explore.
According to the Global Peace Index, Jordan has ranked 57th in 2022, with a score of 1,849, which made the country climb six more steps toward safety. Jordan also ranks third on the list of safest Middle Eastern countries as of 2022 due to its improving domain scores, including militarization, ongoing conflict, and political instability.
Why Is Jordan Safe?
- Low crime rate
- Stable political situation
- Effective security measures
#2. Kuwait
Continent: Asia
Capital: Kuwait City
GDP Per Capita: 24.300,33 USD (2020)
Kuwait has ranked 39th out of 163 countries in the 2022 Global Peace Index, with a score of 1739, reflecting a slight decline by one in its ranking compared to 2021. Nevertheless, it’s still the second safest among the Middle Eastern countries.
With a high-income economy due to the abundance of its oil reserves and strong government institutions, Kuwait is able to maintain stability and security for its residents and visitors.
Why Is Kuwait Safe?
- Low crime rate
- Stable political situation
- Rare violent activity
- Responsive and effective police force
#1. Qatar
Continent: Asia
Capital: Doha
GDP Per Capita: 66.838,36 USD (2021)
Taking first place among the safest countries in the Middle East, Qatar has ranked 23rd in the Global Peace Index in 2022, with a score of 1,533, taking 6 steps up at once. Qatar has a reputation for having low crime rates and strict laws.
Although there have been reports of credit card scams in the country, pickpocketing and violent crimes are rare occurrences in Qatar.
Why Is Qatar Safe?
- Low crime rate
- Stable political situation
- Effective security measures
- Restored diplomatic relations with the neighboring countries
The Methodology of the Global Peace Index
The Global Peace Index takes a number of factors into consideration while determining the ranks of countries in terms of safety. These factors are as follows:
- Criminality perception
- Police/security officers rate
- Homicide rate
- Incarceration rate
- Access to small arms
- Internal conflict intensity
- Violent activity
- Violent crime
- Political instability
- Political terror
- Weapons imports
- Terrorism impact
- Internal conflicts fought
- Deaths from internal conflict
- External conflicts fought
- Deaths from external conflict
- Military expenditure (%GDP)
- Armed services personnel rate
- UN peacekeeping funding
- Capabilities of nuclear/heavy weapons
- Refugees/IDPs
- Relations with the neighboring countries
- Weapons exports
Middle East GPI Rankings
Regional Rank | Country | Overall Score | Rank Change | Overall Rank |
| 1 | Qatar | 1.533 | ↑6 | 23 |
| 2 | Kuwait | 1.739 | ↓1 | 39 |
| 3 | Jordan | 1.849 | ↑15 | 57 |
| 4 | United Arab Emirates | 1.865 | ↑1 | 60 |
| 5 | Oman | 1.889 | ↔ | 64 |
| 6 | Morocco | 1.969 | ↑9 | 74 |
| 7 | Tunisia | 1.996 | ↓3 | 85 |
| 8 | Bahrain | 2.085 | ↑1 | 99 |
| 9 | Algeria | 2.146 | ↑10 | 109 |
| 10 | Saudi Arabia | 2.288 | ↑8 | 119 |
| 11 | Egypt | 2.342 | ↑5 | 126 |
| 12 | Palestine | 2.552 | ↔ | 133 |
| 13 | Israel | 2.576 | ↑8 | 134 |
| 14 | Lebanon | 2.615 | ↑6 | 138 |
| 15 | Iran | 2.687 | ↑2 | 141 |
| 16 | Libya | 2.93 | ↑5 | 151 |
| 17 | Sudan | 3.007 | ↓2 | 154 |
| 18 | Iraq | 3.157 | ↑2 | 157 |
| 19 | Syria | 3.356 | ↔ | 161 |
| 20 | Yemen | 2.399 | ↔ | 162 |
Safest Countries in the Middle East: The Wrap-Up
The Middle East is a complex region, often associated with safety concerns. However, several countries in the region ranked considerably well among the safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index of 2022. Jordan, Oman, Qatar, The United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait all have low crime rates and stable political environments.
Beyond safety, these Middle Eastern countries are must-see destinations that offer visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore a prosperous history, diverse culture, delicious cuisine, authenticity, and beautiful landscapes. From the ancient cities and religious sites in Jordan and Oman to the luxurious beaches and modern cities in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, the region has something for everyone.
The five safest Middle Eastern countries that were subject to this article offer a glimpse into the beauty and richness of the region and call you to not let safety concerns overshadow the opportunity to experience the many wonders that the Middle East has to offer.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to check out our articles on the Most Dangerous Countries in the World, as well as the Safest Countries in the World and Safest Countries in Asia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest Middle Eastern countries?
The top five peaceful countries in the Middle East are Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, and Oman.
What factors contribute to the safety of the countries in the Middle East?
Factors that contribute to the Middle Eastern countries being considered safe include low crime rates, stable political environments, effective security measures, and relatively low levels of terrorism.
What are some cultural considerations travelers should be aware of when visiting Middle Eastern countries?
Many Middle Eastern countries have their intrinsic cultural, religious, and ethical codes. Travelers should pay attention to local customs and laws related to dress, behavior, and alcohol consumption in the Middle East, particularly in more conservative countries. It’s also important to respect local religious customs and practices.
Are there any precautions travelers should take to ensure their safety in the Middle East?
Travelers should take precautions such as staying informed about local news and events, avoiding public demonstrations, following the guidance of local authorities, and securing their personal belongings.
Are there any areas within the five safest Middle Eastern countries that are less safe for travelers?
While Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan and Oman are generally safe, there may be certain areas that are more prone to crime or other safety concerns. Travelers should do their thorough research about these safest Middle Eastern countries and avoid any areas that are known to be unsafe.
What is the happiest country in the Middle East?
Israel has ranked the happiest country in the Middle East, holding the 9th place, followed by Bahrain which was 21st happiest country in the world.
What is the most educated Arab country in the Middle East?
Egypt, located in North Africa, is the most educated Arab country in the Middle East.
Which Middle Eastern country is the best for expats to live in?
The United Arab Emirates is the best country for expats to live in because it offers many career opportunities and is the second safest Middle Eastern country.
What is the most peaceful country in the Middle East?
According to the GPI 2022, Qatar is the most peaceful country in the Middle East.
What are the most dangerous countries in the Middle East?
Yemen, Syria and Iraq are some of the most dangerous countries in the Middle East.