The United Arab Emirates has secured the top rank globally as the safest country for Generation Z travelers, according to the “Safest Countries in the World” report published by Berkshire Hathaway.
This report analyzes tourism safety indicators since 2018, relying on the real experiences of travelers who have visited these destinations. The 2026 report considered a broader range of factors, including age groups, income levels, and specific risks such as crime, health, terrorism, and overall inclusivity.
Overall Ranking
The UAE has made a remarkable leap in the global safety rankings, rising from 18th to 7th place, surpassing countries like Switzerland, Japan, Ireland, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.
It stands as the only country from the Gulf and Middle East to achieve a position in the top tier of this classification.
According to the report, the UAE not only performed strongly among Generation Z but also dominated the overall list.
This success is attributed to years of cultivating a stable tourism image, alongside robust law enforcement and a clear safety and security framework.
For young travelers, many of whom travel solo, trust in public transportation, the ability to navigate at night, and a sense of safety in public spaces are crucial factors.
Clarity and Organization
Generation Z places a high value on clarity and organization, preferring understandable laws and efficient systems, which is well reflected in their daily experiences in the UAE.
The UAE outperformed countries like Canada, which ranked second, Denmark in third place, South Korea in fourth, and the Netherlands in fifth. Ireland, France, Mexico, Austria, and Japan followed in the sixth to tenth positions.
Sense of Safety
The significance of this ranking lies in its methodology, which relies not only on official statistics but also on visitors’ feelings of safety, including women and travelers from various cultures and ethnic backgrounds.
The report indicated that Generation Z rated the UAE higher compared to older age groups, showcasing a shift in safety assessment criteria, which now emphasizes daily experiences over preconceived notions.
Conversely, the report notes that laws in the UAE are stringent, and violations of drug regulations, public conduct, or disrespect for local customs can lead to legal consequences. Generation Z individuals believe that this level of discipline and legal clarity enhances their sense of safety more than in less regulated environments.