7 Gulf cities rank among world’s safest in 2026

Seven GCC cities have been named among the 10 safest in the world, according to Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index, reaffirming the region’s leadership in stability and visitor security.

Topping the list once again, Abu Dhabi claimed the number one spot worldwide for safety when walking alone both during the day and at night, marking an impressive tenth consecutive year. The UAE capital led 400 cities across 150 countries with a safety index score of 88.9, reflecting exceptionally low crime rates and high public confidence. 

Behind Abu Dhabi’s sustained success lies a combination of strategic policing, advanced technology and strong community engagement. Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi, Commander‑in‑Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, credits the city’s around‑the‑clock vigilance and use of AI‑driven predictive analytics as instrumental in maintaining public safety.

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The broader Gulf region also performed strongly. Doha, along with UAE emirates Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, joined Muscat in Oman to complete the top 10. Doha stood out for its high scores on night‑time safety, while Dubai was commended for maintaining low crime levels amid significant visitor volumes.

2026 Safety Index by City (Numbeo)

1. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 88.9
2. Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates – 85.3
3. Doha, Qatar – 84.5​
4. Sharjah, United Arab Emirates – 84.5​
5. Ajman, United Arab Emirates – 84.4
6. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 83.9
7. Taipei, Taiwan – 83.3
8. Muscat, Oman – 81.3
9. Tampere, Finland – 79.6
10. Trondheim, Norway – 79.0

The results highlight the GCC’s proactive emphasis on safety, a key factor driving the region’s growing appeal among international travellers.