Uzbekistan Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Uzbekistan
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Normal Precautions
Updated January 22, 2026
Uzbekistan recorded 1.4 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2021, a rate that is low by global standards. That places Uzbekistan #131 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 15% over the past decade (from 1.6 in 2015). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Uzbekistan at Level 1 of 4: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Homicide Rate
1.4 /100k
Safety Rank
#65 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 1 of 4
Data Year
2021
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2021)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 15% over the past decade (from 1.6 in 2015). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Uzbekistan Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Uzbekistan, the homicide rate for men is 1.7× higher than the rate for women — 1.7 vs 1.1 per 100,000 (2021).
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 Uzbekistan:
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Uzbekistan is generally a safe destination for U.S. travelers. Review our travel guidance for Uzbekistan to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Uzbekistan: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Uzbekistan.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Uzbekistan
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated January 29, 2026).
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists. Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime
Violent crime against foreign nationals is rare, but can occur, especially in larger cities and primarily during late night hours. In urban areas, travelers are urged to take the same precautions they would take in any large U.S. city. If traveling at night, stay in well-lit areas, travel in groups, maintain a low profile, and do not display large amounts of cash. Beware of pickpockets in public places, such as tourist destinations, train stations, and local markets. Although using private cars as taxis is common in Uzbekistan, U.S. citizens, especially women, should not consider this a safe practice. U.S. citizens are encouraged to use clearly marked taxis, such as those at hotels, and should avoid riding in unmarked taxis.
Demonstrations
are rare and unlikely to occur, particularly inside Tashkent. However, clashes between police and protesters have resulted in deaths in the past. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Past demonstrations have ended in mass arrests. Check local and/or social media for updates and traffic advisories. Violent demonstrations may be more likely outside the capital city.
Scams
Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
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 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 apps may give you the shortest route without safety considerations. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. [CK1]
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police at 102 (Tashkent) or 02 (most of Uzbekistan) and to the U.S. Embassy at + (998) (78) 120-5450. 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 and after the local investigation. Provide a list of local attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. Replace a stolen or lost passport.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is not well regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. 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.
Uzbekistan Population & Demographics
Population of 36,361,859, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uzbekistan safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Uzbekistan at Level 1 of 4 (Exercise Normal Precautions). The homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan has an intentional homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 people (2021, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #131 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Uzbekistan compare to other countries?
Uzbekistan's homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Asia average of 2.0.