Would you believe that some Middle Eastern countries are actually safer than the United States? The numbers tell the story - the 2022 Global Peace Index places the US at #129, while Qatar ranks #23, Kuwait #39, and Jordan #57.
My extensive travels through Saudi Arabia, Oman, Egypt, Morocco, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have shaped my perspective. Safe destinations in the Middle East are nowhere near as rare as Western media portrays. The region's crime rates stay consistently low, and visitors face minimal risk of becoming crime victims.
Female travelers will find remarkable security in the region's safest countries. Abu Dhabi stands out as the Middle East's safest city, and the UAE boasts the highest percentage of women who feel secure in their communities. On top of that, Oman maintains a zero rating on the 2024 Global Terrorism Index and shows lower-than-average crime rates in the 2023 Organized Crime Index.
Most Middle Eastern nations welcome tourists with completely safe areas, though some regions remain restricted. To name just one example, see Socotra Island - while mainland Yemen isn't recommended currently, the island welcomes visitors safely.
Let me share my unique experience and practical tips for women exploring these nine safest Middle Eastern countries solo in 2025, beginning with the United Arab Emirates.
United Arab Emirates
Image Source: Flamingo Travels
The UAE stands at the top of my list as the safest Middle Eastern destination for women who travel alone. Abu Dhabi earned its title as the safest city in the world in 2023 for the sixth year running. My numerous visits to this city left me feeling completely secure.
UAE safety for solo female travelers
Female travelers can feel at ease while exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi alone. These cities boast incredibly low crime rates, and harassment rarely occurs. Strict laws keep criminal activities minimal. Note that you should learn about local regulations to avoid any accidental violations. Your comfort level increases with women-only taxis driven by female drivers and special metro carriages reserved for women.
Top attractions in the UAE
The UAE amazes visitors with stunning attractions that range from the iconic Burj Khalifa to the magnificent Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. You'll find endless entertainment at The Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates with its indoor ski slopes, and the beautiful Jumeirah Beach. Palm Island deserves your attention, along with the charming historical districts in Old Dubai.
Cultural norms and dress code in the UAE
The UAE shows more tolerance than its neighbors, yet modest dress matters greatly in public areas:
Cover shoulders and knees in malls and public areas
Bring a light scarf for mosques (head covering required)
Bikinis are acceptable at hotel beaches and pools only
Dress more casually in tourist zones, more conservatively in local areas
Transportation and getting around in the UAE
Dubai Metro provides affordable travel for longer trips, with tickets ranging from 4-8.5 AED per ride. Taxis offer convenience at reasonable prices - expect to pay 80-100 AED from Dubai Airport to Downtown. Abu Dhabi relies on busses and taxis since it doesn't have a metro system.
Best time to visit the UAE
The perfect time to visit falls between November and March, with pleasant temperatures between 20-30°C. Summer months from June through August bring unbearable heat as temperatures soar above 45°C. This makes outdoor activities almost impossible. Moderate weather and smaller crowds await visitors during April-May and September-October.
Jordan
Image Source: World Nomads
Jordan is one of the most available gateways to Middle Eastern culture for solo female travelers. The country ranks #57 on the Global Peace Index, which makes it a reliable choice for women who want adventure with peace of mind.
Jordan safety for solo female travelers
My visits to Jordan proved the country is generally safe. Jordanians welcome international visitors with genuine hospitality. Crime rates stay low, and you might only encounter pickpockets in tourist areas. But some women have reported unwanted attention from men, especially when you have visited Petra. You can minimize these encounters by dressing modestly and using trusted transportation services like Uber or Careem.
Top attractions in Jordan
The ancient city of Petra stands without doubt at the top of Jordan's must-see list. My tip is to arrive at 6 AM to enjoy its majesty without crowds. Wadi Rum's big desert landscapes give you exceptional experiences from jeep rides to stargazing. You should also visit:
The Roman ruins of Jerash
The Dead Sea's unique floating experience
The historic Amman Citadel
Cultural norms and dress code in Jordan
Jordan does not enforce strict dress codes like its neighboring countries. You should cover your shoulders, knees, and avoid tight-fitting clothes to show respect for local customs. A high collar or light scarf works best to cover the nape of the neck, which locals find attractive. Public displays of affection between couples are not welcome whatever their marital status.
Transportation and getting around in Jordan
Getting around creates the biggest problem for solo travelers in Jordan. You can rent a car for about 26 JD daily, which lets you move freely but needs confidence on desert roads. Taxis are convenient and cost 27-48 JD daily. Public busses run too, but they don't follow set schedules and are infrequent.
Oman
Image Source: Broken Boots Travel
Oman's dramatic mountains, pristine coastlines, and zero rating on the Global Terrorism Index make it perfect for solo female travelers seeking an authentic Arabian experience safely.
Oman safety for solo female travelers
Low crime rates make Oman one of the safest Middle Eastern countries. My travels there revealed locals' exceptional hospitality and respect. They welcome visitors while appreciating modest behavior.
Top attractions in Oman
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat displays beautiful Islamic architecture that deserves an early morning visit. You should also experience Wahiba Sands desert, Wadi Shab's turquoise pools, and the historic Nizwa Fort.
Cultural norms and dress code in Oman
Modesty matters deeply in this conservative Muslim country. Women should follow these guidelines:
Cover shoulders and knees at all times
Wear loose-fitting clothing (not tight or revealing)
Cover hair when visiting mosques
Pack lightweight scarves for versatility
Transportation and getting around in Oman
Public transportation remains limited these days. A 4×4 vehicle rental gives you the most freedom to explore. The Otaxi app serves as a reliable option in urban areas and costs one-third less than regular taxis.
Best time to visit Oman
The ideal weather occurs from October through March, with temperatures ranging between 15-30°C. Jebel Akhdar mountains showcase rose blooms in April. Summer brings intense heat from June through August, except in Salalah at the time of khareef (monsoon) season.
Qatar
Image Source: The Bucket List Adventures
Qatar stands out as a safety beacon in the Middle East with a safety index of 84.01 and a low crime index of 15.99. Many travelers consider it one of the safest countries in the world for solo female adventurers.
Qatar safety for solo female travelers
Qatar makes security a top priority, which helps women explore with confidence. You'll find well-lit streets and respectful locals throughout the country. My experience walking around Doha at night felt safe. Cases of harassment rarely happen, but like any other place, basic safety precautions make sense.
Top attractions in Qatar
Souq Waqif takes you on a journey through time with its spices, perfumes, and lively bargaining culture. The Museum of Islamic Art houses beautiful collections from three continents. MIA Park serves as a peaceful green space by the sea. Luxury seekers can head to Pearl Island or check out the fancy Mall of Qatar and Villaggio Mall with their gold-decorated floors.
Cultural norms and dress code in Qatar
Qatar's Islamic culture shapes its dress code expectations:
Public spaces require covered shoulders and knees
Clothes should be loose rather than tight
Hotel pools and beaches are the right places for swimwear
Mosques need headscarves, but they're optional elsewhere
Transportation and getting around in Qatar
Doha's Metro system is clean, safe, and runs smoothly. Turquoise-colored Karwa taxis offer reliable rides and accept bookings through their app. Free Metrolink busses connect passengers to and from metro stations. This makes getting around Qatar simple and hassle-free.
Turkey
Image Source: NomadSister
Turkey bridges Europe and Asia, creating a captivating blend of cultures for women travelers. The country needs more careful navigation than others on this list.
Turkey safety for solo female travelers
Tourist areas are generally safe, but you should stay alert, especially in Istanbul. Solo women tend to get more attention than those traveling with companions. The good news is that unwanted attention rarely turns into harassment. You can prevent most approaches by avoiding eye contact. The safest approach is to stick to crowded areas and stay away from dark streets at night. Watch out for taxi scams by using the BiTaksi app.
Top attractions in Turkey
The historical center of Istanbul packs magnificent sites within walking distance. You'll find:
Hagia Sophia (former Roman cathedral, now mosque)
Blue Mosque
Topkapi and Dolmabahce Palaces
Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
Galata Tower
A Bosphorus cruise lets you see the world's only city that spans two continents.
Cultural norms and dress code in Turkey
Turkey has different dress standards depending on where you go. Western-style clothing is common in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Beach resorts are fine with typical swimwear. Mosques require modest dress - women need to cover their shoulders, hair, and legs. A light scarf comes in handy for unexpected mosque visits.
Transportation and getting around in Turkey
Istanbul has excellent public transport options. You can reach the city center from Istanbul International Airport by metro, Havaist shuttle bus, or taxi (about $30-40 USD). Trams make it easy to visit major attractions in the city.
Best time to visit Turkey
The best weather hits during April-May or September-October with temperatures between 68°F to 86°F. Summer months from June to September get quite hot. November through March brings cooler temperatures but fewer tourists at major sites.
Egypt
Image Source: Nomadic Matt
Egypt attracts travelers with its ancient wonders and vibrant culture. Solo female adventurers need extra preparation compared to other destinations on this list.
Egypt safety for solo female travelers
Major tourist sites like Cairo, Luxor, and the Red Sea resorts remain safe. Street harassment can range from harmless curiosity to persistent catcalling. A confident demeanor helps reduce unwanted attention. My experience showed that modest dress and avoiding eye contact worked best to minimize harassment. Though I felt nervous about traveling alone at first, the amazing experiences turned out to be worth the challenges.
Top attractions in Egypt
The magnificent Pyramids of Giza deserve their spot at the top of most itineraries. Karnak and Luxor temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the Egyptian Museum are must-see destinations. A peaceful escape from the tourist crowds awaits at El Fayoum oasis or during a hot air balloon ride over Luxor.
Cultural norms and dress code in Egypt
This Muslim country's culture calls for respectful clothing choices:
Cover shoulders, knees, and avoid tight clothing
Keep a scarf handy for mosque visits
Wear swimwear only at private beaches/resorts
Transportation and getting around in Egypt
Cities are best navigated using ridesharing apps like Uber and Careem. Cairo's metro system has female-only cabins that help you avoid unwanted attention. Trains make better choices than local busses when traveling between major cities.
Morocco
Image Source: The Blonde Abroad
Morocco presents a colorful mosaic of cultures that gives solo female travelers both adventure and challenges. The country ranks 78th among 163 nations in the Global Peace Index 2024 and stands as one of Africa's safest destinations for solo travel.
Morocco safety for solo female travelers
Tourists rarely face violent crime here. Street harassment remains the biggest problem, especially in medinas and crowded markets. My personal experience shows Marrakech feels safer than many neighborhoods in Paris. You should stay away from empty medina alleys, remote beaches, and neighborhoods like Sidi Moumen in Casablanca after sunset.
Top attractions in Morocco
The blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen are a photographer's dream and offer a peaceful vibe. Marrakech combines old and new with its sprawling souks and lively Jemaa el Fna square. The world's oldest university, University of al-Qarawinyyin, built in 859, sits in Fez. Travelers can unwind from busy city life at Essaouira's Atlantic beaches with their bohemian atmosphere.
Cultural norms and dress code in Morocco
Modest dress helps reduce unwanted attention when you respect local customs. Keep your shoulders and knees covered, and wear loose-fitting clothes. A headscarf might help in more traditional areas.
Transportation and getting around in Morocco
Major cities connect well through first-class train services. Stick to metered official small taxis or CTM busses for city travel. Shared grand taxis aren't the best choice for most trips.
Bahrain
Image Source: World Nomads
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, welcomes solo female travelers with its perfect mix of modern life and rich cultural heritage. This Middle Eastern gem ranks among the safest countries in the region. My visits have shown me just how much charm this tiny kingdom packs.
Bahrain safety for solo female travelers
The kingdom's low crime rates make it a secure place where women can travel confidently. Visitors rarely face any trouble, and women hardly ever encounter harassment. Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that Bahrain stands out as one of the region's safest spots. You should use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber after dark. These services cost about one-third of regular taxi fares and provide reliable transportation.
Top attractions in Bahrain
The magnificent Bahrain Fort captures the ancient Dilmun civilization's spirit from 2300 to 500 BC. You'll discover the kingdom's rich history at the Bahrain National Museum. Bab Al Bahrain opens up to a bustling souq where local culture comes alive. The mysterious Tree of Life stands alone in the desert and has survived against all odds for 400 years.
Cultural norms and dress code in Bahrain
Bahrain shows more tolerance about dress codes than most Middle Eastern countries, but respectful clothing matters:
Public spaces require covered shoulders and knees
Choose loose-fitting clothes instead of tight or revealing ones
Keep swimwear for private beaches or pools only
Bring a scarf for mosque visits since you'll need to cover your head
Transportation and getting around in Bahrain
Getting around Bahrain works best with Uber, Careem, BahTaxi, or regular taxis. The Bahrain Public Transport Company runs busses that offer a budget-friendly option at just 0.30 BHD per ticket. Airport transfers give you several choices: taxis (6-10 BHD), ride-hailing services (around 6 BHD), or regular busses (A1, A2, 10, and 11) that connect to the city center.
Kuwait
Image Source: Solo Female Travelers
Kuwait ranks #39 on the Global Peace Index. This ranking makes it a surprisingly secure destination among the safest Middle Eastern countries that adventurous women choose to explore alone.
Kuwait safety for solo female travelers
Crime rates remain remarkably low in Kuwait. The US Embassy advises extra caution around the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area because of higher crime rates. My visits have been mostly hassle-free with minimal unwanted attention. Some women have reported both verbal and physical harassment. Kuwait's safety level exceeds many Western cities, and local authorities respond quickly to any incidents.
Top attractions in Kuwait
Kuwait's iconic Towers provide spectacular panoramic views. The coastline looks most magical at sunset, which makes it the perfect time to visit. The Grand Mosque welcomes visitors with free guided tours that showcase Islamic architecture. Souq Al-Mubarakiya captures authentic market atmosphere. The Avenues Mall caters to luxury shopping enthusiasts. Anyone interested in history should explore Al Qurain Martyrs Museum, which documents Kuwait's resistance during the Iraq invasion.
Cultural norms and dress code in Kuwait
Kuwait enforces stricter dress standards compared to other Gulf nations:
Women need to cover their shoulders and knees in public areas
Tight, clingy, or see-through clothing should be avoided
A scarf or pashmina comes in handy to add coverage
Private beaches and hotel pools allow swimwear
Transportation and getting around in Kuwait
Busses and taxis make up the main public transportation system. These safety tips help ensure a smooth journey:
Choose only marked, licensed taxis or trusted ride-share services like Careem
Stay away from the front seat in taxis
Know your route and destination beforehand
Stay alert on public busses because harassment can occur
Conclusion
My extensive trips to nine Middle Eastern countries showed me a reality quite different from Western misconceptions. These nations rank higher on global safety indexes than most people expect. They also give women travelers exceptional security along with stunning cultural experiences.
Each country shows its own personality and charm. The UAE sparkles with futuristic skylines and tight safety measures. Oman draws visitors with dramatic landscapes and has zero terrorism risk. Jordan greets everyone with legendary hospitality but needs a bit more caution about unwanted attention.
Dress codes are the biggest change Western women need to make. Conservative clothes show respect for local customs and help avoid unwanted attention. On top of that, a lightweight scarf comes in handy for mosque visits or extra coverage.
Getting around is different in each country. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem have made it much safer for solo female travelers in this region. Female-only sections on public transport offer extra peace of mind where they're available.
Your safety depends more on homework and planning than your gender. Learn about local customs, pick up basic Arabic greetings, and check neighborhood safety before you go. Women who dress modestly, follow cultural norms, and stay alert usually get warm welcomes instead of harassment.
The weather decides the best time to visit these places. Summer months get too hot in most countries. October through March gives you the perfect window to explore the region comfortably.
The Middle East changed how I travel. The stunning architecture and ancient wonders are amazing. But the locals' genuine kindness and rich cultural experiences create memories that stay with you forever. These countries turned into some of my favorite places worldwide, even though I felt nervous before my first visit.
Solo female travelers who do their homework, respect the culture, and use common sense will without doubt find some of the world's most rewarding travel experiences beyond what headlines tell you.
FAQs
Q1. Which Middle Eastern countries are considered safest for solo female travelers in 2025? The United Arab Emirates, Oman, Jordan, Qatar, and Bahrain are among the safest Middle Eastern countries for solo female travelers. These nations offer a good balance of security, cultural experiences, and modern amenities.
Q2. What should women wear when traveling in Middle Eastern countries? In most Middle Eastern countries, it's advisable to dress modestly. This typically means covering shoulders and knees, avoiding tight or revealing clothing, and carrying a lightweight scarf for added coverage or mosque visits. Specific dress codes may vary by country and location.
Q3. How can solo female travelers stay safe while exploring Middle Eastern cities? To stay safe, use reputable transportation services like official taxis or ride-hailing apps, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, respect local customs, and maintain awareness of your surroundings. Many cities also offer women-only sections on public transport for added comfort.
Q4. What are some must-visit attractions in the Middle East for solo female travelers? Popular attractions include the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Petra in Jordan, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman, Souq Waqif in Qatar, and the Bahrain National Museum. Each country offers unique historical sites, modern marvels, and cultural experiences.
Q5. When is the best time to visit Middle Eastern countries? Generally, the best time to visit most Middle Eastern countries is between October and March, when temperatures are milder. Summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot in many areas, making outdoor exploration challenging. However, specific ideal times may vary by country and region.
Add comment
Comments