Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Don't touch any unidentified objects in the wilds - ordnance from earlier conflicts is still an occasional issue in
Dhofar in Oman, Yemen and Kuwait.
Kuwait
Since the Arab Spring of 2011, large gatherings of nationals protesting for more political freedom have alarmed author-
ities with the result that bans and curfews are periodically enforced. That said, this has little impact on the visitor and the
areas of tourist interest in Kuwait remain safe to visit. As a precaution, however, it is worth keeping an eye on interna-
tional news for any further unrest and checking with your consulate before booking a visit. While in Kuwait, avoid large
gatherings of people.
Although the country has now been cleared of mines after the Gulf War, unfamiliar objects in the desert should not be
touched and you should stick to established tracks.
Oman
This is one of the safest countries in the entire Middle East to visit and although there were minor skirmishes during the
Arab Spring of 2011, the unrest was localised. Flashpoints have tended to be focused on Sultan Qaboos University in
Muscat and around the town of Sohar.
The main danger in Oman is from the weather: flash floods, particularly in the mountains, often catch visitors un-
aware. As such, wadis should be avoided during and immediately after rain.
Qatar
The speed and volume of traffic is about the only thing to concern a traveller in Qatar and even women walking in Doha
at night alone are unlikely to feel threatened. In the desert, getting stuck in soft sand near Khor al-Adaid is an inconveni-
ence more than a life-threatening concern.
Saudi Arabia
Despite the pivotal role Saudi Arabia has played in terms of engendering Al-Qaeda, the government in Riyadh has made
a concerted effort over the past few years to stamp our terrorism in the Kingdom. This has resulted in much improved
relations with the West.
Tourism (almost exclusively in groups as independent travel remains virtually impossible) has increased in recent
years and the security of these visitors is taken very seriously as the authorities seek to grow this nascent industry. Visit-
ors need only to worry about road safety as the country has one of the worst accident records in the world.
