Kuwait Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Kuwait
Kuwait recorded 0.3 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2020, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Kuwait #190 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 88% over the past decade (from 2.0 in 2010). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Kuwait at Level 3 of 4: Reconsider Travel.
Homicide Rate
0.3 /100k
Safety Rank
#6 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 3 of 4
Data Year
2020
Homicide Rate Trend (1996-2020)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 88% over the past decade (from 2.0 in 2010). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Kuwait Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Kuwait, the homicide rate for men is 1.0× higher than the rate for women — 1.1 vs 1.1 per 100,000 (2020).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Kuwait:
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. Reconsider Travel to Kuwait due to the threat of armed conflict, landmines, and crime . Advisory summary On March 5, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait suspended operations (including routine consular services). U.S. citizens in Kuwait should contact the State Department at +1-202-501-4444 or +1-888-407-4747 for emergency assistance or services.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Kuwait
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated August 07, 2025).
Potential for Terrorist Activity
Kuwait continues to face the threat of terrorism. Terrorists may target U.S. citizens and interests in the Arabian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula. For more information see our Terrorism page.
Crime
Criminal activity is low. Nonetheless, reported incidents include petty theft, car break-ins, and harassment or sexual assault of women traveling alone. The Embassy recommends that U.S. government personnel exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City due to crime. See the Kuwait Travel Advisory for more information.
Desert Region Near the Border of Iraq
U.S. government personnel are prohibited from personal travel in the desert region within five kilometers of the Kuwait-Iraq border. See the Kuwait Travel Advisory for more information.
Scams
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Kuwait. Review the Department of State and the FBI pages for more information. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include: Romance/online dating Money transfers
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the Embassy at +965-2259-1001. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care Assist you in reporting a crime to the police Contact relatives or friends with your written consent Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Provide a list of local attorneys Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Domestic Violence
Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated according to best practices and safety inspections and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, adequate medical treatment is available throughout the country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Kuwait Population & Demographics
Population of 4,897,263, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kuwait safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Kuwait at Level 3 of 4 (Reconsider Travel). The homicide rate of 0.3 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Kuwait?
Kuwait has an intentional homicide rate of 0.3 per 100,000 people (2020, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #190 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Kuwait?
Kuwait is currently at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Kuwait compare to other countries?
Kuwait's homicide rate of 0.3 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Asia average of 2.0.