According to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2019, the Middle East and North Africa are the world’s most dangerous regions, no thanks to the conflicts in some countries in the region. Some people are always skeptical to visit Arab countries due to the tensions in some areas, especially when the Syrian civil war is proving very difficult to put an end to.
Just last year, President Donald Trump withdrew from Iran’s nuclear deal and has toughened the economic sanctions against Tehran. Most recent unsettling came in early days of July when a British oil vessel was seized by Iran in the gulf. These tensions keep rising and these have made some sojourners very skeptical about visiting or settling down in the Middle East.
While it can’t be argued that some of these Arab countries are totally not safe, some Arab countries are still very much untroubled and should be on your bucket list.
Below are the top 5 safest Arab countries to visit or live in.
1. Qatar
Qatar is mostly known for its sophistication with a very rich culture. It is one of the Middle East countries that serve as an ideal destination for people who are looking to bolster their travel books or a place to settle down. Doha, which serves as its capital, is the house to the Museum of Islamic Art. The fact that the country is hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup proves how safe the world thinks the country is right now. This Arabian Peninsula country also tops richest Arab country list, and is the richest country in the world at the moment.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE is a popular destination for tourists and expats, with a lot of people trooping in from all around the world; in fact, almost 90% of the total UAE population are foreigners. The country is one of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East, thanks to the existence of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Dubai is the most populous city in UAE despite not being the capital, and that’s because it is full of ultra-modern skyscrapers, sophisticated shopping malls, home to the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa, the main commercial hub of the Middle East, and so on. However, people should know that the remaining five less-popular Emirates: Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm al-Quwain, also have a lot to offer.
3. Kuwait
Kuwait is one of the Gulf countries that has maintained an authentic Arab culture. This oil-rich city is filled with exotic buildings and skyscrapers, including the Kuwait Towers and luxury hotels. Needless to say, tourists troop in a reasonable number just to see the beauty of this country.
4. Jordan
Jordan is arguably the safest country in the Middle East (no wonder they call it the Safe Haven) because in spite of the wars going on in the surrounding countries, this country has selflessly welcomed refugees with so much kindness and warmth. There are many historic places to visit in this country, places like; Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Nabataean city of Petra. Jordan is a peaceful place and if you are looking for serenity, Jordan is definitely the place to be.
5. Oman
Oman is very close but contrasting to the UAE. The beautiful and green country boasts high-end hotels and peaceful villages which are very accommodating. Visitors troop in to Oman to experience its exotic natural wonders, including breathtaking Fjords, mountains, beautiful coastlines, and dunes.
Also read: The Top 10 Most Dangerous Arab Countries to Visit or Live in.
