Africa
Is Western Sahara safe?
—No US advisory
Is Western Sahara safe?
Dakhla and Laayoune are calm and low-crime for visitors, but a long-running territorial dispute means security presence is high and areas east of the berm are unsafe.
Key facts
- Emergency numbers: Police 19 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 15.
- Solo women: Comfortable in Dakhla's kite and tourist scene; dress modestly in town and avoid isolated beaches alone at night.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Landmines and unexploded ordnance east of the berm
- Strong winds, cold ocean currents and rip tides
- Desert driving and long empty roads
- Sporadic tension and demonstrations around Laayoune
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites and checkpoints is prohibited
- Drones and certain devices need authorisation under Moroccan law
Safety by place in Western Sahara
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Dakhla | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Western Sahara safe for tourists?
Dakhla and Laayoune are calm and low-crime for visitors, but a long-running territorial dispute means security presence is high and areas east of the berm are unsafe.
Is Western Sahara safe for solo female travelers?
Comfortable in Dakhla's kite and tourist scene; dress modestly in town and avoid isolated beaches alone at night.
What is the emergency number in Western Sahara?
Police 19 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 15.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- Morocco e-visa and entry (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- UK FCDO travel advice: Morocco
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.