Qatar has been recognized as the safest country in the Middle East and the eighth safest globally for expatriates in 2025, according to recent data from Expatriate Group, a global provider of international healthcare insurance for those living, working, or studying abroad.
Expatriate Group's latest report analyzed 128 countries, using the Global Peace Index to assess political stability and conflict risk, the Crime Rate Index to measure crime levels, and data on natural disaster risk to determine the likelihood of such events. Each country received scores in these categories, which were then combined to calculate an overall safety score and determine the final ranking.
The report highlights that Qatar, alongside Singapore, is unique in being the only non-European nation to feature in the top 10 of the safest countries for expats. The report also noted Qatar's minimal risk of natural disasters due to its geographical location.
Among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Bahrain ranked next after Qatar at 13th globally, followed by Kuwait (15th), Oman (24th), the UAE (30th), and Saudi Arabia (54th). Regarding crime rates specifically, Qatar was recognized as having the second lowest globally, with a Crime Index of 16.0.
Qatar has consistently maintained its reputation as one of the world's safest countries, providing a secure environment for residents and visitors alike. This safety is attributed to several factors, including a highly efficient and well-trained police force with a visible presence throughout the country and a zero-tolerance policy toward crime, ensuring swift action against offenders. The nation has also invested heavily in advanced security technology, such as surveillance systems, facial recognition software, and intelligence-gathering capabilities, enabling proactive threat identification and prevention. Furthermore, Qatar's harmonious multicultural society promotes a sense of community and mutual respect, with the government actively fostering tolerance and understanding to minimize social unrest. Qatar has also implemented various initiatives to enhance women’s safety and empowerment, including dedicated women’s police stations, legal protections against gender-based violence, and programs promoting women’s participation in the workforce.