Backpacking as a solo female traveler can feel like a big adventure, and when you think about the Middle East, lots of questions might pop into your head due to it being in a completely different part of the world than where you’re from. Many people wonder about safety, or how the cultural differences will impact your travels. It's true that the Middle East has its own unique ways, but it's also a region full of welcoming people and incredible sights, from ancient ruins to bustling markets that are great locations for solo women backpackers.
The Middle East has become a must-visit destination with plenty of beautiful beaches and towering skyscrapers that make the skyline pop with an array of shining colours. There’s so many countries in the Middle East with Egypt, Morocco and UAE all growing in popularity. Each of these have beaches with some of the smoothest sand and bluest waters in the world, making them perfect for visiting all year round.
This guide will explore whether solo female backpackers are safe to travel around the Middle East and how they can ensure that they respect culture and remain empowered at all times. Continue reading to find out more about your potential next backpacking adventure.
Travel Safely in the Middle East
Here’s a list of each Middle Eastern country and the safety of each of them according to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO):
Good Travel Safety Levels in the Middle East
Cyprus: Generally considered very safe, with standard travel precautions.
Morocco: Widely considered safe for tourists, though petty crime can occur.
Oman: Known for being a very safe and welcoming country.
Qatar: Very safe, especially in major tourist areas.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Extremely safe, with low crime rates.
Kuwait: Generally safe, with standard precautions.
Bahrain: Generally safe, with standard precautions. Often an underrated country to visit.
Tunisia: Tourist areas are generally safe, but some areas may have specific warnings.
Moderate Travel Safety Levels in the Middle East
Jordan: Generally safe for tourists, but has specific warnings for border areas and heightened vigilance is advised due to regional tensions and potential for protests.
Egypt: Popular tourist areas are generally safe, but the FCDO advises against all or all but essential travel to certain regions, including being in close proximity to Libya.
Turkey: Major tourist areas are generally safe, but like many countries, it has experienced security incidents, so vigilance is advised.
Saudi Arabia: Generally safe for visitors in major cities and tourist sites, but the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas near the Yemen border.
Low Travel Safety Levels in the Middle East
Afghanistan: FCDO advises against all travel due to volatile security and high risk of detention.
Iraq: FCDO advises against all travel to large parts of the country.
Iran: FCDO advises against all travel due to significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention, especially for British and dual nationals.
Israel: While major cities and tourist sites may be safe, the FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to some areas.
Lebanon: The FCDO advises against all or all but essential travel to significant parts of the country, including certain areas in Beirut and near the southern border.
Libya: FCDO advises against all travel to Libya except for specific cities (Benghazi and Misrata).
Pakistan: The FCDO advises against all travel to significant parts of the country due to security risks.
Sudan: FCDO advises against all travel due to ongoing military conflicts.
Syria: FCDO advises against all travel due to ongoing conflict and unpredictable security conditions.
Yemen: FCDO advises against all travel due to ongoing conflict and extremely dangerous security situations.
Algeria: The FCDO often advises against all but essential travel to certain areas, particularly border regions. Main tourist areas are generally considered safer, but it's important to check specific regional advice.
Wherever you choose to travel to in the Middle East, you also need to respect the local laws and customs. Getting to know the local feeling on modesty, clothing choices, public displays of affection, alcohol and more will set you up for success in most to all regions.
Middle East Travel Advice
Good Navigation
Once your safety is assured, there is general advice that can help you thrive while on your travels. Good navigation is the number one thing we’d recommend, so you should download offline maps on your smartphone before you go to help you get around and know where you are at all times. It should be offline, as you won’t know if your signal will be strong enough to generate an online map, especially if you’re in a desert.
Accommodation
To save money and make your trip smoother, prioritise your accommodation's location for the best experience in your solo travels. Find out if it's close to major attractions, local markets and public transport. Being able to walk to souks, shops and historic sites means less money spent on taxis or buses, and more time enjoying your destination. This strategy really helped me manage my budget in Kuwait City.
Local Customs
Alcohol is usually viewed as taboo in most Middle Eastern countries, meaning it might be hard to find or its consumption is restricted to specific places like international hotels. Public displays of affection are generally rare or even nonexistent, so it's wise to be mindful of how you interact with anyone new you meet. Also, friendships between men and women might be seen as unusual or misunderstood in some conservative settings. You should conduct research on the specific customs and social norms of the country you plan to visit before you go.
Appropriate Outfits for Middle Eastern Travel
Loose black abayas or jersey hijabs shows respect for local customs and traditions. While not always mandatory for tourists (especially non-Muslims), dressing similarly to local women can help you blend in more easily. This can reduce unwanted attention and make you feel more comfortable navigating public spaces.
A lightweight scarf is an absolute must-have for solo female travelers in the Middle East, offering versatility for both modesty and practicality. It can be worn as a stylish accessory to elevate an outfit, a cover-up on a beach, a light blanket on chilly evenings or even as a makeshift pillow on long journeys. Its light weight means it takes up very little space in your backpack.
Good footwear is also essential. Think athletic sneakers or dedicated walking shoes to help you get around. They provide crucial support and cushioning for long days exploring cities, ancient sites and bustling souks. Choose breathable materials to keep your feet cool in the heat too!
Final Thoughts on Solo Female Backpacking in the Middle East
Solo female backpacking in the Middle East offers a unique and enriching adventure. By staying informed about safety advisories and making smart choices about accommodation and clothing, you can navigate this incredible region with confidence. Get ready to explore the ancient wonders and stunning natural beauty with a well-prepared trip to the Middle East as a solo female backpacker. It can be an empowering and unforgettable experience for any woman!
WRITTEN BY
After completing a University degree in Journalism, Darcy Fowler has dedicated a lot of time to travelling around the world and experiencing a variety of cultures. Darcy is determined to provide interesting and insightful content with the hope of inspiring others.