Is it Safe for Women to visit MENA?

The MENA region is one of the most underestimated places to visit. Media outlets highlight it as a region with high-security risks rather than a destination for business and travel. However, more female travelers are beginning to explore the less visited parts of the region aside from previously well-known destinations like Egypt, Morocco, and the UAE.

The MENA is the place to go if you want a rich experience full of adventure, history, culture, and heritage. The region's diversity has attracted the interest of a new generation of female travelers. Where else can you explore one of the oldest cities on Earth and enjoy the beach at night?

Although the MENA is a wonderful part of the world, navigating the less touristic parts of the region requires a high degree of cultural awareness to avoid miscommunication.

Even though the region has acquired a reputation for being risky, many areas have become politically stable, and the travel and business industry is seeing a revival. Many women travel to the region, document their positive experiences, and advise other women on the region's cultural do's and don'ts. Some tours are organized for women who prefer to travel in groups to explore MENA countries.

Thorough pre-planning is needed to avoid risky situations when traveling, as you would when visiting any other place. We provide you with the following advice to make the best of your visit to the region:

Do research:

The first step is to research the areas you will visit thoroughly. Finding common risks and threats can help you avoid them during your visit. Are the places you are planning to visit safe? Is the accommodation you are staying in a safe neighborhood with reliable security? What have other female travelers experienced and shared online?

Respect their culture:

The MENA is probably quite different from other areas you have visited. Religion, culture, and traditions are regarded highly, sometimes tied to the country's laws.

So, check the do's and don'ts of the area(s) you visit. Find out what religions and cultures are practiced and try enlightening yourself to avoid offending the local culture and people.

Select a travel security service:

Select travel security services that will help you prepare for and assist you during your travel. Travel security firms are up to date with global security and health threats and can help you plan your trips accordingly.

What did women have to say about their experience in the MENA?

Monica, a solo female traveler, says: "As a solo female, you will not only be able to speak to local women but you'll often be invited into conversations and regarded with curiosity. You'll see a side of local culture reserved for only women and children – no men allowed. I also found that, while yes, I was mindful of the men I interacted with, most of them were incredibly respectful as well."

Belinda Jackson traveled and shared her experience traveling solo in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt: "On my solo adventures, I catch taxis late into the night in Saudi – no fighting with drunks on the street for a cab at closing time. I am invariably treated with courtesy, as well as genuine curiosity, by the male drivers. Some countries, including Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), now also have "pink" taxis, driven by women for women passengers."

Damien Raggett, a founder of a travel group for females, says: "We hike bush trails, meander markets or swim in the ocean," "...but above all, we learn from the women we meet. They teach us about their communities, what we have in common, and what's important in life – family, friends, and the future."

As the travel industry is booming after it hit a time of recession during Covid, many countries are making efforts to become more travel friendly, especially for female travelers. Some countries like the UAE have allotted metro carriages and female taxi drivers only for women so that women will feel safe traveling around, whether early in the morning or late at night.

Travel smart. Travel Securely.

For more information on travel security in the MENA visit:?www.crownox.com