Qatar has been recognized as the safest country in the Middle East and the eighth safest globally for expatriates to live in 2025, according to recent statistics from the Expatriate Group, a global organization specializing in international healthcare insurance for expatriates.
The ranking, based on data from 128 countries, utilized three key indices: the Global Peace Index for political stability and conflict risk, the Crime Rate Index for levels of crime, and the Natural Disaster Risk Index to measure the likelihood of such events. Scores across these categories were combined to determine the overall rankings.
Qatar and Singapore are the only two non-European countries to make the top 10 safest countries list. Qatar secured the eighth position globally and ranked second worldwide for the lowest crime rate. The report highlighted Qatar’s strict laws, effective law enforcement, and low levels of violent and petty crimes, creating a secure and comfortable environment for residents and workers alike.
Political stability was another factor contributing to Qatar’s high ranking. The country maintains a stable governance structure, free from political unrest, and prioritizes economic development and strong international relations, ensuring a secure environment for all residents.
Qatar’s geographical location minimizes natural disaster risks, with little exposure to earthquakes, hurricanes, or flooding. While occasional sandstorms occur due to the arid climate, these are effectively managed with advance warnings and safety protocols.
Among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Qatar leads the rankings, followed by Bahrain (13th), Kuwait (15th), Oman (24th), the UAE (30th), and Saudi Arabia (54th). Qatar’s Crime Index of 16.0 places it as the second-lowest in the world, underscoring its exceptional safety record.
Over the years, Qatar has built a reputation as one of the safest countries globally, supported by a well-trained and efficient police force, zero-tolerance policies for crime, and advanced security technology such as surveillance systems, facial recognition, and intelligence capabilities.
The nation’s multicultural society promotes mutual respect and tolerance, fostering social harmony. Initiatives to enhance women’s safety and empowerment, including women-specific police stations, legal protections against gender-based violence, and workforce inclusion programs, further contribute to Qatar’s secure environment.
Qatar’s proactive measures and investments ensure it remains a safe and welcoming destination for both residents and visitors, cementing its position as a leader in security and quality of life.
