Is Uzbekistan Safe?
Uzbekistan is generally considered a safe country for tourists and expats. It has low violent crime rates, friendly locals, and a strong security presence in major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. However, basic travel precautions are still recommended.
🔹 Crime Overview
- Violent crime is rare in most parts of Uzbekistan.
- Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occasionally happen in crowded markets and transport hubs.
- Police presence is visible in major tourist areas, especially in Tashkent.
- Most visitors report feeling safe while traveling across the country.
🔹 Safest Cities in Uzbekistan
- Tashkent: Capital city with strong security and modern infrastructure.
- Samarkand: Tourist-friendly and well-maintained historical city.
- Bukhara: Quiet and safe cultural destination.
- Khiva: Small historic city with low crime rates.
🔹 Safety Tips for Tourists and Expats
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas like bazaars and metro stations.
- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps when available.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly in traditional areas.
- Carry a copy of your passport while traveling internally.
🔹 Transport & Night Safety
- Public transport in cities is generally safe and widely used.
- Walking at night in central areas is usually safe in major cities.
- Rural areas are peaceful but less populated, so basic caution is recommended.
🔹 Emergency Contacts
- Police: 102
- Fire Department: 101
- Medical Emergency: 103
- Emergency Services (General): 112
💡 Learn More About Living in Uzbekistan