{"id":25233,"date":"2023-04-05T12:46:00","date_gmt":"2023-04-05T10:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=25233"},"modified":"2026-02-02T11:51:52","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T09:51:52","slug":"countries-middle-east-safe-travel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/countries-middle-east-safe-travel\/","title":{"rendered":"Where in the Middle East is safe to travel to?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-for-tourists-1024x768.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-for-tourists-1024x768.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-for-tourists-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"is the middle east safe for tourists\" class=\"wp-image-25327\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#f2f2f2\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><strong>Wanna travel to the Middle East with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and more. We have group expeditions scheduled every month to the most exciting destinations in the Middle East. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LEARN MORE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Concern about potential Middle Eastern dangers is one of the topics readers of this blog ask me about the most so, in this guide, you will find everything you need to know about it<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Right before I began to write this article, I decided to Google the latest Middle East-related news, and these were the first results that showed up:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How Europe is getting entangled in the big Middle East conflict<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saudi Arabia hinders Yemeni agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Israel and UAE historic deal to normalize relations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UAE and Israel to establish spy base <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/yemen-travel\/\"><strong>in Yemen<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1022\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-1022x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-25287\" srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-1022x1024.png 1022w, https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-768x769.png 768w, https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11-1200x1202.png 1200w, https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Snip20200902_11.png 1256w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1022px) 100vw, 1022px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>They are all related with the ongoing Middle Eastern issues, to a greater or lesser degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s what the international media talks about and, unfortunately, pretty much the only information most people from around the globe get access to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, the Middle East is perceived by many as an unsafe territory, hence an unlikely place to travel to, which is extremely sad and wrong, because this region is large, rich, composed of many different countries which, more often than not, have nothing to do with each other\u2019s issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Middle East is one of the most troubled regions in the world, nobody is denying that, plus there are some areas &#8211; just a few, in my opinion &#8211; which can be extremely dangerous. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on my travel experience in the Middle East, in this post, I wanted to tell you <strong>where in the Middle East is safe to travel<\/strong>, which includes a thorough analysis and country breakdown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"convertkit-form wp-block-convertkit-form\" style=\"\"><script async data-uid=\"966cc0f59d\" src=\"https:\/\/exceptional-creator-2216.kit.com\/966cc0f59d\/index.js\" data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" data-no-defer=\"1\" nowprocket><\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-471x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-471x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-the-middle-east-safe-471x1024.jpg\" alt=\"is the Middle East safe\" class=\"wp-image-25313\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:443px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Middle East safety guide, you will find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#1\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">The reasons why the Middle East is safe<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Where in the Middle East is safe<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#21\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Extremely safe countries<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#22\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Safe countries<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#23\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Relatively safe countries<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#24\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Dangerous countries<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in the Middle East<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#50\">More Information<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading m-0 has-white-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>Get travel insurance for the Middle East<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-42841\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>I recommend <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.co.uk\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=middle_east_safetravel_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong>, since it&#8217;s pretty much the only one that covers travel in ALL Middle Eastern countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5% discount<\/strong> if booking with the below link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"http:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.co.uk\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=middle_east_safetravel_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:0px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">GET A QUOTE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\">Is the Middle East safe? 4 reasons to believe it isn&#8217;t a dangerous place to travel to<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Middle East is huge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Middle East is an enormous territory almost as big as Europe and composed of 15 countries, 16 if you count Turkey as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These countries are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f2f2f2\">Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From a cultural point of view, they have little to do with each other. Of course, they share many similarities but comparing, let\u2019s say, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-lebanon\/\"><strong>Lebanon<\/strong><\/a>, is like comparing <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-belarus\/\"><strong>Belarus<\/strong><\/a>, Germany and Spain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Iranians are not Arabs but they are Persians and practice Shia Islam. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The United Arab Emirates is a very rich Arab nation. On the one hand, they practice a very conservative branch of Sunni Islam and, on the other, their laws are very tolerant towards foreigners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And Lebanon is the most culturally diverse country you can never think of, in which around 40% of the population are Christian, from many different branches and backgrounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And then of course you have Israel, Palestine, Yemen and a large etcetera. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each country is a completely different world, so you can&#8217;t put them all in the same bucket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_4585-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_4585-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_4585-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25321\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Erbil is the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, a region inhabited by Kurds, a separate group of people from Arabs, and one of the safest places in the Middle East<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">There are actual borders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Middle East isn\u2019t like a Schengen zone, in which all Arabs and non-Arabs cross from one to another freely, but they have secured borders, many of which people are not even allowed to cross. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What I want to say is that, if there was a war or any conflict in a specific country, it doesn\u2019t mean that the neighboring countries are unsafe as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, according to the <strong><a aria-label=\"World Economic Forum (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/these-are-the-20-safest-and-most-crime-free-countries-in-the-world-2018-10?IR=T\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">World Economic Forum<\/a><\/strong>, Oman is the 4th safest country in the world. Yet, it shares a border with <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/yemen-travel\/\"><strong>Yemen<\/strong><\/a> that is completely open to both foreigners and locals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_0606-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_0606-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_0606-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25319\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-salalah-dhofar\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"26122\"><strong>Salalah in Oman<\/strong><\/a>, just a couple of kilometers away from the Yemeni border, and the most beautiful region in the country<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The media tells you only one part of the story<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You already know that but, just to remind you that the media only shows you one side of the story which, unfortunately, tends to be the ugliest side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just remember that countries are big pieces of territory and, whenever they show you an image of a partially destroyed <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-aleppo\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>city like Aleppo<\/strong><\/a>, it doesn\u2019t mean that the rest of the cities are unsafe as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I mean, did you know that the city of Damascus almost remained untouched in the current Civil War?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What if the only thing you knew about the USA was the 9\/11 attacks?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_26811-1024x682.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_26811-1024x682.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_26811-1024x682.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25353\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Syria is considered one of the most dangerous countries to travel in the Middle East but I took this photo in Damascus in 2019<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Many Middle Eastern countries are safer than yours<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hopefully, the above reasons were quite obvious to many of you, but I have always had a hard time trying to convince my friends about this one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For some reason, crime in the Middle East is barely existent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may find some little petty crime in a few capitals like Amman (Jordan) and Cairo (Egypt) but that\u2019s because they are the most touristic capitals in the region and, in any case, it\u2019s nothing particularly disturbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>War and terrorism-wise, some parts of the Middle East are f***ed up, for sure, but outside those few areas, life is definitely safer than in your home country, and the locals have developed such a strong sense of community that it makes traveling super pleasant, as you don\u2019t need to worry about anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/where-in-the-middle-east-is-it-safe-to-travel-1024x725.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/where-in-the-middle-east-is-it-safe-to-travel-1024x725.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/where-in-the-middle-east-is-it-safe-to-travel-1024x725.jpg\" alt=\"where in the middle east is it safe to travel\" class=\"wp-image-25325\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Some old tanks from Sadam Hussein&#8217;s Army<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\">Which countries in the Middle East are safe to visit?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note that the following country breakdown is a mere opinion, based on all my years of travel in the Middle East. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It may differ from your own and, if it does, I will be happy to answer your concerns in the comments section. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"21\">1 &#8211; Extremely safe countries in the Middle East to travel to<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The safest countries in the Middle East to go right now are the Gulf Monarchies in the Arabian Peninsula. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All of them are incredibly rich (except for <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-saudi-arabia\/\"><strong>Saudi Arabia<\/strong><\/a>), two of them having the highest GDP per capita in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Oddly enough, the local population in all of them barely reaches 50%, the rest being all immigrants, mostly coming from South Asia (<a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/pakistan\/\"><strong>Pakistan<\/strong><\/a>, India and Bangladesh), but there is also a large Western expat community. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Gulf Monarchies are definitely safer than any other Western country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bahrain<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The smallest of all, Bahrain is a tiny island connected to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-saudi-arabia-itinerary\/\"><strong>Saudi Arabia<\/strong><\/a> by a bridge and infamous for having the most permissive rules towards alcohol and prostitution, the reason why its many bars tend to be filled with Saudis who come over for the weekend to enjoy some freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In my opinion, there is nothing of interest in Bahrain other than eating out and clubbing but still, if you want to party legally until 6am in the morning, this is one of the safest countries in the Middle East to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/oman\/\">Oman<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I already mentioned in the previous section that Oman is, according to the WEF, the <strong><a aria-label=\"4th safest country in the world (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/these-are-the-20-safest-and-most-crime-free-countries-in-the-world-2018-10?IR=T\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4th safest country in the world<\/a><\/strong> and in the Global Terrorism Index, compiled by the Institute of Economics and Peace, <strong><a aria-label=\"Oman is ranked as O (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Global_Terrorism_Index\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oman is ranked as 0<\/a><\/strong>, meaning that the impact of terrorism is non-existent (USA is ranked as 5.4).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, despite the country&#8217;s obvious modernization, Oman is the only country that has been able to keep its most traditional essence, making travel here an even better and more authentic experience, in which the local Omanis will continuously bless you with their hospitality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, something worth mentioning about <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-oman\/\"><strong>Oman<\/strong><\/a> is that, unlike other Arab countries, they have always strived to have good relationships with all Middle Eastern countries, including Israel and Iran, plus they stayed out of the Yemeni conflict. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-oman-safe\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is Oman safe?<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-oman\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Travel in Oman, everything you need to know<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_13691-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_13691-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_13691-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25335\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">In Oman, the safest country in the Middle East, there are plenty of ancient fortresses<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/united-arab-emirates\/\">United Arab Emirates (UAE)<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Home to one of the most international cities in the world, Dubai, the UAE is an extremely developed country whose impeccable safety is hailed by absolutely each and every expat living there.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s not forget, however, that the UAE is heavily involved in the Yemeni war, helping Saudi Arabia with the airstrikes, but then, your main concern should be ethical, rather than worrying about the country\u2019s safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/dubai-itinerary\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Dubai 7-day itinerary<\/span><\/a><br><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/dubai-off-the-beaten-track\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Off the beaten track places in the UAE<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/liwa-oasis-uae-1024x768.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/liwa-oasis-uae-1024x768.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/liwa-oasis-uae-1024x768.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25347\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The United Arab Emirates is not only about the typical luxuries you find in Dubai, but it is home to incredible deserts<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Qatar<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Officially the country with the <a aria-label=\"highest GDP per capita in the world (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_countries_by_GDP_%28PPP%29_per_capita\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>highest GDP per capita in the world<\/strong><\/a>, Qatar is a powerful Arab country whose state model follows the same line as the UAE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to its close ties with Iran, Qatar went through a diplomatic crisis with its best friends from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who decided to temporarily boycott them, but that never affected the security situation and in any case, that boycott stopped probably due to the beginning of the World Cup in 2022, since everyone in the region wanted to benefit from it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I personally consider that there isn&#8217;t much to do in this tiny country, but it&#8217;s one of the safest countries in the Middle East.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/saudi-arabia\/\">Saudi Arabia<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:21px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Saudi Arabia doesn\u2019t come without its own issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-saudi-arabia-ethical\/\"><strong>no political freedom<\/strong><\/a> and their laws are strictly based on Sharia, the Islamic law, whose main criticism in the West is that its rules bring women down to second-class citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, because of those facts, foreigners assume Saudi is inhabited by dangerous fanatics who would completely stone a woman to death just because she is a blonde foreigner, and I have actually heard a woman saying that. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After coming back from Saudi Arabia, I was heavily criticized by many readers who were questioning my ethical principles, and there was this specific woman who told me:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>I don\u2019t want to travel to Saudi Arabia because I don\u2019t want to be stoned to death.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you actually believe this, you clearly have no idea about anything. Saudi Arabia is, along with the other Gulf Monarchies, one of the safest countries in the Middle East. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I backpacked and <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/hitchhiking-backpacking-saudi-arabia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>hitchhiked around the country<\/strong><\/a> for over 2 weeks and had a real blast, not only because the country is filled with stunning natural sites but also because the people were amazingly kind, hospitable and helpful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In my opinion, Saudi is the most misunderstood country on Earth, even more than Iran. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-saudi-arabia\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tips for traveling to Saudi Arabia<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-saudi-arabia-itinerary\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Saudi Arabia 2-week itinerary<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-saudi-arabia-ethical\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is ethical to travel in Saudi Arabia?<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_20401-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_20401-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_20401-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25349\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Beautiful, kind-hearted Saudi are the highlight of any trip to Saudi<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kuwait<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I haven\u2019t been to Kuwait, but this is another business hub, similar to Qatar and the UAE, so the country is absolutely safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"22\">2 &#8211; &#8221;Just safe&#8221; countries in the Middle East to go<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Personally, I consider that some of the following countries are extremely safe to travel to as well, but I am putting them in the \u2018\u2019just safe section\u2019\u2019 because, while there isn\u2019t any terrorist thread and stuff like that, they are politically unstable, especially Iran and Lebanon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/iran\/\">Iran<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike what many people in the West think, especially in the USA, Iran is an extremely safe Middle Eastern country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the one hand, violent crime is extremely rare and, on the other, there is no terrorism, especially because Iranians are Shia Muslims, the worst enemy of ISIS and other terrorist organizations alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I don\u2019t know a single person who hasn\u2019t had a <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/es\/que-ver-iran-itinerario\/\"><strong>great time in Iran<\/strong><\/a>, not only because the country has enormous touristic potential but also because, along with the Omanis, Iranians are the most hospitable and kind-hearted people in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, because of the current protests and all the issues with the USA, who have flooded them with endless, annoying sanctions, traveling here comes with its own particular challenges, logistically speaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-iran-safe\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is Iran safe?<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iran-itinerary\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Iran, 1-month itinerary<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-to-iran-ultimate-survival-guide\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Iran travel tips<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/safe-places-to-visit-in-the-middle-east-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/safe-places-to-visit-in-the-middle-east-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/safe-places-to-visit-in-the-middle-east-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25341\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Islamic architecture in Iran is absolutely out of this world<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/lebanon\/\">Lebanon<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Lebanon is another often misunderstood country, for the following reasons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First of all, it is located right at the heart of the turmoil, nestled <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-itinerary\/\"><strong>between Syria<\/strong><\/a> and Israel and the truth is that a tiny northwestern region of Lebanon has suffered in the past from a small Syrian war spillover, but you weren\u2019t able to go there anyways, even if you wanted to. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Second of all, people still associate Lebanon with war and yes, a bloody Civil War happened here, but it ended in 1991!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And third, while there have been some critical terrorist attacks, those bombs have always targeted Shia-populated districts &#8211; far away from any touristic area &#8211; plus there haven\u2019t been more attacks than in other European countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, the political and financial situation in Lebanon is today highly unstable and protests are now being spurred by the massive port explosion that worsened the situation even more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/safe-travel-lebanon\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is Lebanon safe?<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-lebanon\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Lebanon, 2-week itinerary<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/beirut-travel-guide\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Beirut travel guide<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/tripoli-Jabal-Mohsen-1024x705.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/tripoli-Jabal-Mohsen-1024x705.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/tripoli-Jabal-Mohsen-1024x705.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25343\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The FCO advises against traveling to Tripoli but the truth is that today, it is a peaceful traditional city<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/jordan\/\">Jordan<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>After Egypt, Jordan is the <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/best-places-visit-middle-east\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>most touristic country in the Middle East<\/strong><\/a>, home to mass tourism sites such as Petra, Jerash and the Dead Sea. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A very safe and politically stable country that even managed <a aria-label=\"to escape from the 2011 Arab Springs (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.aljazeera.com\/indepth\/opinion\/2014\/02\/here-how-jordan-escaped-arab-spr-20142510106257977.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>to escape from the 2011 Arab Spring<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, since this is a very touristic country, some petty crime exists &#8211; just regular pickpocketing &#8211; plus some women have claimed being verbally harassed by local men.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/monastery-petra-1024x682.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/monastery-petra-1024x682.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/monastery-petra-1024x682.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25339\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Petra is the most visited place in Jordan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/egypt\/\">Egypt<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The situation in Egypt is very complicated and difficult to explain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the one hand, this is one of the most touristic countries in the world but, unfortunately, it has recently suffered from terrorism and, unlike in Lebanon, some of those attacks have targeted tourists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, tourism in Egypt has massively decreased to the extent that there is a tangible crisis, visible when you see a shit load of businesses closed and some internationally famous sites are empty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, while I do believe that those attacks were a major concern, the situation has drastically improved, but do avoid the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more: <\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-egypt-itinerary\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Egypt travel guide<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/egypt-off-the-beaten-track\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Egypt off the beaten track<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/daraw-camel-market-camel-trader-1024x768.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/daraw-camel-market-camel-trader-1024x768.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/daraw-camel-market-camel-trader-1024x768.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25337\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Besides its traditional temples and archaeological sites, in Egypt you can do many things, like visiting this traditional camel market in Daraw<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/israel--palestine\/\">Israel &amp; Palestine<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The conflict between Israel and Palestine is real, but the situation has dramatically improved and today, the West Bank, home to some really important Christian sites and cities, such as Bethlehem, is very safe for travel, so is Israel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the last years, all the Palestinian-Israeli issues you have been hearing in the media have mainly happened in the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian region that is geographically separated from the West Bank. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Gaza Strip can be dangerous but you can\u2019t go there as a tourist anyways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-palestine-travel-west-bank\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Palestine, 2-week itinerary<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-gaza\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Gaza travel guide<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-it-safe-to-visit-the-middle-east-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-it-safe-to-visit-the-middle-east-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/is-it-safe-to-visit-the-middle-east-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"is it safe to visit the Middle East\" class=\"wp-image-25323\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Palestine is filled with epic Christian sites, such as this Orthodox Monastery named Mar Saba<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"convertkit-form wp-block-convertkit-form\" style=\"\"><script async data-uid=\"966cc0f59d\" src=\"https:\/\/exceptional-creator-2216.kit.com\/966cc0f59d\/index.js\" data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" data-no-defer=\"1\" nowprocket><\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"23\">3 &#8211; Relatively safe countries in the Middle East to travel to<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/iraq\/\">Iraq<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers and visit the wonders of Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-41ca9b2d71c6785e29b59b0608642bab\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>October 6th to 16th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/full-iraq-spanish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JOIN US IN Iraq<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>More than a relatively safe country, Iraq is divided into 2 regions: one which is extremely safe, and one which is OK safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The extremely safe region is Iraqi Kurdistan, and the one which is OK is actual Arab Iraq, Baghdad and stuff. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Iraqi Kurdistan is a completely different world: they aren\u2019t Arabs but Kurds, control their own borders and are pro-American and pro-Israel, which is why they stayed out of the conflict that made Arab Iraq into a failed state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have been to Kurdistan twice, hitchhiked all around the country and it\u2019s a real, very safe paradise, one of the safest regions outside of the Gulf Monarchies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arab Iraq, nevertheless, is not as bad as you may think. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, after Pope Francis visited it in March 2021, the authorities introduced a visa on arrival, which later became an e-visa, available for up to 35 nationalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can only mean that the security situation in Iraq has drastically improved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From Mosul to Baghdad and Karbala, I have been traveling independently all over Iraq, and everything is pretty chilled, but do pay some extra attention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more: <\/strong><br><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-iraq\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Is Iraq safe? Welcome to Kurdistan<\/span><\/a><br><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iraqi-kurdistan-travel-guide\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">A guide to travel in Iraq Kurdistan<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-mosul-iraq-after-liberation\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Visiting Mosul after the liberation<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-iraq-federal\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"29473\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Federal Iraq travel guide<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/female-travel-iraq\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Iraq<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_47251-1024x683.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_47251-1024x683.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/DSC_47251-1024x683.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25333\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is Amedi, one of the oldest villages in the world, found in Iraqi Kurdistan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"24\">4 &#8211; Dangerous, or less safe, countries in the Middle East<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These two countries are dangerous but I am also calling them <em>less safe countries<\/em> because either the situation has improved &#8211; in Syria &#8211; or there are specific regions that managed to stay out of the conflict &#8211; in Yemen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/syria\/\">Syria<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers to visit the wonders of Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-e0bc533bf7c9189eb45df3846b836ac9\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>September 26th to October 3rd, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/syria-september\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JOIN US IN syria<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You already know the situation in Syria. There\u2019s been a Civil War since 2011 that caused hundreds of thousands of dead and displaced people, making it one of the most dangerous countries on Earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, you also need to know that, today, the war is almost over and there are some Government-controlled areas, especially in the <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-itinerary\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"30825\"><strong>Western part of the country<\/strong><\/a>, which are now relatively safe for travel and, when I say relatively I mean that they are currently safe but the situation can change overnight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I traveled in Syria multiple times, visiting Aleppo, Homs and Damascus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The security measures were insane, but I didn\u2019t experience any bad situation; on the contrary, all the Syrians I met were great and helpful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-safety\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"30868\">How safe is Syria for tourists?<\/a><br><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-syria\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Syria travel guide<\/span><\/a><br><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-aleppo\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Visiting Aleppo after the war<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/IMG_20181227_1149251-1024x682.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/IMG_20181227_1149251-1024x682.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/IMG_20181227_1149251-1024x682.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-25329\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The partially destroyed city of Aleppo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/country\/yemen\/\">Yemen<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to Yemen with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Yemen on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-59ab0525cea381d149792618b4d91c58\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>November 19th to 24th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/yemen-january\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JOIN US IN YEMEN<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Most Yemen is unsafe, today suffering from a proxy war between Saudi and Iran, an actual war zone where airstrikes are common, and where the local branch of Al Qaeda used to control a significant part of the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The situation, however is improving and today, there are two regions &#8211; the island of <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/socotra-travel\/\"><strong>Socotra<\/strong><\/a> and Hadramaut &#8211; that somehow, are staying away from this horrible drama.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, now that both Iran and Saudi Arabia recovered diplomatic relationships, the situation in Yemen might even improve further. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/yemen-travel\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Yemen travel guide<\/span><\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/socotra-travel\/\">Socotra travel guide<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shibam-This-is-Shibam-1024x684.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shibam-This-is-Shibam-1024x684.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shibam-This-is-Shibam-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Shibam\" class=\"wp-image-40603\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is Shibam, in the region of Hadramut<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\">Is the Middle East safe for solo female travelers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I am completely aware that <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/best-places-visit-middle-east\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>traveling in the Middle East<\/strong><\/a> as a woman is a different experience than as a man but, unfortunately, I can\u2019t really speak for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What I would like to highlight, however, is that the different Middle Eastern issues the media talks about have little to do with a woman\u2019s experience, but are more about being traditional, conservative Muslim countries, where the locals don\u2019t know how to behave with Western women, or just women in general. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because this is such an important topic, I decided to create a <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/category\/solo-female-traveling\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><strong>solo female travel section<\/strong><\/a> where solo women adventurers share their experiences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/tips-for-solo-female-travel-in-lebanon\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Lebanon<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/solo-female-travel-jordan\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Jordan<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/solo-female-travel-iraqi-kurdistan\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Iraq<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-oman-woman\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Oman<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/traveling-saudi-woman\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Saudi Arabia<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iran-solo-female-traveler\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Solo female travel in Iran<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to write a guest post for <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/\"><strong>Against the Compass<\/strong><\/a>, please send me your pitch ideas at <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">joan(at)againstthecompass.com<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading m-0 has-white-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><strong>Get travel insurance for the Middle East<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/DSC_0823-41.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-42841\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p>I recommend <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.co.uk\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=middle_east_safetravel_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">IATI Insurance<\/a><\/strong>, since it&#8217;s pretty much the only one that covers travel in ALL Middle Eastern countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5% discount<\/strong> if booking with the below link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"http:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.co.uk\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=middle_east_safetravel_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:0px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">GET A QUOTE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"50\">More information for traveling safely in Middle East<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other guides to the Middle East<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/best-places-visit-middle-east\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Places to Visit in Middle East<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check more safety guides<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-afghanistan-safe\/\">Is Afghanistan Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-iran-safe\/\">Is Iran Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-iraq\/\">Is Iraq Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/safe-travel-lebanon\/\">Is Lebanon Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mali-safe\/\">Is Mali Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/mauritania-safe-travel\/\">Is Mauritania Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-oman-safe\/\">Is Oman Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-pakistan-safe\/\">Is Pakistan Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/safe-travel-sudan\/\">Is Sudan Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-safety\/\">Is Syria Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-tunisia-safe\/\">Is Tunisia Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/middle-east-safe-countries-685x1024.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/middle-east-safe-countries-685x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/middle-east-safe-countries-685x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Middle East safe countries\" class=\"wp-image-25311\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:506px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wanna travel to the Middle East with Against the Compass? Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and more. We have group expeditions scheduled every month to the most exciting destinations in the Middle East. Concern about potential Middle Eastern dangers is one of the topics readers of this blog ask me about the most so, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25327,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[184,157,160,191,193,179,311,156,197,168,257,261,171],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25233","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-egypt","category-iran","category-iraq-2","category-israel-palestinian-territories","category-jordan","category-lebanon","category-libya","category-middle-east","category-oman","category-safety-travel","category-saudi-arabia","category-syria","category-united-arab-emirates"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25233","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25233"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25233\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":56821,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25233\/revisions\/56821"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25327"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25233"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25233"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25233"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}