15 Safest Countries in the World
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
- Taiwan
- Oman
- Armenia
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- Singapore
- Slovenia
- Bahrain
- Saudi Arabia
- Estonia
- Monaco
- Switzerland
- Iceland
Qatar
Qatar is the safest country in the world, with an extremely low violent crime index of 14.3 per 100,000 people. With a population of 2.695 million, it's one of the world's top exporters of liquefied natural gas. However, it's crucial to note that Qatar's legal system permits stoning as a punishment and considers apostasy and homosexuality as crimes punishable by death. Despite its safety, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are uncommon but still possible.
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), also known as simply the Emirates, stands as another safe country in the world. With a low crime index of 14.6 per 100,000 people and a population of 9.441 million, it ensures safety for its residents and visitors alike. While apostasy is technically a capital crime in the UAE, there have been no documented cases of apostates being executed. According to the 2018 Arab Youth Survey, the UAE shines as the leading Arab country in aspects like living standards, safety, and security.
Taiwan
Ranked as the third safest country globally, Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), sits in East Asia. With a population of 23.57 million, its crime index per 100k people is just 16.1, indicating low crime rates, even for minor offenses. Notably, Taiwan maintains robust trade relations with China, the United States, and Japan, its three largest trading partners, which collectively contribute to over 40 percent of its total trade volume.
Oman
Next on our list is Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman. It's the oldest continuously independent state in the Arab world. With a low crime index of 19.6 per 100k people and a population of 4.576 million, Oman is considered safe for travelers. Despite sharing borders with Yemen, Oman is a secure destination. Additionally, the World Bank classifies Oman as a high-income economy, reflecting its economic strength.
Armenia
Armenia, nestled in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia, is a safe haven with a low crime rate of 21.6 per 100k people. With a population of 2.78 million, it stands as another safe country in the world. However, travelers should be mindful when driving near the border with Azerbaijan. While overall crime levels are low, occasional incidents of pickpocketing, bag-snatching, theft from cars, and burglary involving foreign nationals do occur.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong, ranking sixth on our list of safest countries, boasts remarkably low crime rates, with only 21.7 crimes per 100,000 people. With a population of 7.346 million, it stands as one of the most densely populated territories globally. Despite its safety, political unrest and protests may give some visitors pause. Nonetheless, Hong Kong maintains one of the highest life expectancies globally, affirming its status as a secure and vibrant city.
Japan
Japan, an island country in East Asia, boasts a population of 125.1 million. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Japan stands as a cultural superpower, with its traditions and customs revered globally. Notably, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Japan maintains impressively low crime rates, with a crime index of 22.9 per 100,000 people. Violent crimes such as murder, abduction, sexual violence, and robbery are notably rare in this nation, underscoring its reputation for safety and security.
Singapore
Singapore, an island country and city-state in maritime Southeast Asia is home to 5.637 million people, making it one of the most densely populated places globally. With a crime index of 23.1 per 100k people, it's known for its tough laws and firm stance against crime, including caning and capital punishment. Despite its strictness, Singapore excels in education, healthcare, and overall quality of life, ensuring personal safety and social well-being for its citizens.
Slovenia
Slovenia, nestled in southern Central Europe, holds the ninth spot on our list of safest countries globally. With a low crime index of 24.2 per 100,000 people and a population of 2.112 million, Slovenia boasts a developed economy and holds the title of the richest Slavic country by GDP per capita. Whether you wander its charming cities or explore its picturesque landscapes, rest assured, you'll feel secure. The likelihood of encountering crime is exceedingly rare, making Slovenia a haven for peace of mind.
Bahrain
Bahrain, an island country in West Asia, sits snugly between Qatar and the northeastern coast of Saudi Arabia. With a crime index of 24.2 per 100k people, it fosters safety for its population of 1.472 million, making it the third-smallest nation in Asia after the Maldives and Singapore. The country's capital draws attention as many of the world's largest financial institutions establish a presence there, contributing to its vibrant economic landscape.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, located in West Asia and the Middle East, is a significant player in the region, boasting a population of 36.41 million. It's recognized as both a regional and middle power. With a low crime index of 24.3 per 100k people, it's considered one of the safest countries to visit, provided visitors respect local laws and customs. Dressing modestly, including wearing an abaya in public, is advised. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's economy ranks as the largest in the Middle East.
Estonia
Estonia, a country by the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe, holds the 12th spot on our list of safest countries globally. With a crime index of 24.5 per 100,000 people and a population of 1.349 million, it's a place where safety is a priority. Known for its high rankings in quality of life and education, Estonia takes a strict stance against drugs. Using, possessing, or trafficking drugs is illegal, with severe penalties.
Estonia is also an affordable country for expats as it's one of the poorest countries in Europe.
Monaco
Monaco, a tiny but mighty country with a population of 36,469, shines brightly on the world map. Despite its small size, Monaco boasts a remarkably low violent crime rate of 24.7 per 100,000 people, making it safer than many other places in Europe. Known for its opulence and wealth, Monaco stands tall as one of the most affluent and expensive destinations globally. Despite being the second-smallest sovereign state after Vatican City, Monaco attracts attention worldwide as the host of the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, an iconic event in the Formula One calendar.
Switzerland
Switzerland, officially known as the Swiss Confederation, is the penultimate city on our list of safest countries in the world. With serious crime levels at a low, only 24.9 crimes per 100k people, it fosters a secure environment for its population of 8.776 million. Not only does Switzerland prioritize safety, but it also shines as one of the world's most developed nations, boasting the highest nominal wealth per adult. Moreover, it plays a pivotal role on the global stage, hosting the headquarters or offices of most major international institutions, including the WTO and the WHO.
Iceland
Iceland, a Nordic island country nestled between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, wraps up our list of safest countries in the world. With a population of 382,003, it boasts a remarkably low crime index of 25 per 100k people. Iceland stands out as the smallest NATO member with no standing army, relying instead on a lightly armed coast guard. Its peaceful atmosphere stems from this unique setup, alongside its high level of socio-political stability, making Iceland the epitome of safety and tranquility.