Qatar is renowned for its exceptional safety, making it one of the best places to live in the world. According to Numbeo, a widely-used crowd-sourced online database, Qatar named second safest country globally this year, just behind the United Arab Emirates.
Exceptional Safety Standards
Numbeo safety index evaluates various parameters, including crime levels, safety while walking alone, and the incidence of stolen vehicles and property crimes. Qatar scored impressively low in crime rates and concerns about home break-ins, car theft, physical attacks, and drug-related offenses.
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On the flip side, it received high marks for safety both during the day and night, reflecting a secure environment where residents, irrespective of gender or nationality, can walk freely around the city and let children play safely in parks and playgrounds.
Expatriates’ Testimonials
Expatriates living in Qatar have shared their personal safety experiences, underscoring the country’s secure atmosphere.
Jillian Malinao, a Filipino woman living alone in Qatar, praised the low crime rates and respectful culture:
“Living in Qatar has been reassuring for me. I feel safe walking home late at night or when I’m alone at home. The community and authorities are very supportive, adding an extra layer of security.”
Ehab Ewis, an Egyptian expat who has been driving in Qatar for over a decade, mentioned his worry-free experience with car ownership:
“I’ve parked my car in various places around the city, sometimes for several days. I’ve never experienced any issues like theft or vandalism.”
Janine Madlanga, along with her family, expressed satisfaction with the safety of their children playing in public parks:
“Our children play outside and visit parks regularly without any concern. The parks are well-maintained and monitored, which allows us to feel comfortable letting our kids play freely.”
Newlyweds Ahmed and Kholod shared how safety enhances their daily lives: “As someone who works outside, I feel confident knowing that my wife is safe at home or while out alone,” said Ahmed. Kholod added,
“The overall sense of community safety and the proactive approach of local police ensure a secure environment for both of us.”
Samia Farfour, a retired visitor, commented on public safety: “It was remarkable to see young people and even families out late with no worries. When my son was at work, I often took walks or visited nearby parks and shops alone. The visible presence of security made me feel very safe.”
Impact on Tourism and Economic Growth
Qatar’s reputation for safety has positively impacted tourism, with Qatar Tourism reporting over four million visitors in 2023, setting a new record. The ‘Tourism Sector Performance Q1 2024’ report indicated a 40% increase in arrivals compared to the first quarter of 2023, totaling 1.6 million visitors. In April 2024, the National Planning Council recorded approximately 382,000 inbound visitors, marking a 17.9% annual increase compared to April 2023.
Additionally, studies from SCISPACE highlight that work safety and occupational health positively affect employee productivity, emphasizing the broader impacts of Qatar’s secure environment.
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Future Prospects
Qatar plans to continue expanding business and tourism while enhancing life quality. Safety remains a cornerstone of Qatar’s strategy to improve living standards and economic performance, ensuring it remains one of the safest and most desirable places to live and work in the world.
Conclusion
By prioritizing safety, Qatar not only provides a secure environment for its residents but also creates a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and expatriates, contributing to its growing global appeal.
