Safety in Libya
Expats living and working in Libya need not be overly concerned with safety and security. As an Islamic nation, strict codes of punishment and a strong system of family values means that violent crime rates remain relatively low.
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That being said, petty crime like pick-pocketing, residential burglary and vehicle burglary is on the rise due to an underequipped police force and inefficient judicial system. Expats will find themselves targeted more often than locals. It’s important to be vigilant, especially in crowded marketplaces or in empty areas of the cities.
Foreign women may also face verbal harassment, though physical violence like rape or assault are not common. In an effort to avoid catcalls or a wandering eye it is best to dress conservatively - avoiding sleeveless tops, shorts and high cut skirts - and to avoid travelling alone.
Overall though, Libya is a safe country with low crime rates. Although some expats live in isolated compounds, it is perfectly safe to live in rented flats or villas within city limits. Many expats hire gate boys to work as live-in guards protecting their property. This is a good option if the husband spends lots of time away from home while wife and family remain behind.
If victimized, proceed to the nearest police station, major business or hotel for help.
Libyans are generally friendly toward expats; they’re congeniality motivated by the curiosity that’s followed a period of isolation from the west.
Still, it is important to remember that Libya is a Muslim country, thus expats should be respectful of culture and customs. Libya is not nearly as stringent and unforgiving as some of its nearby Middle Eastern neighbors when it comes to enforcing the tenets of Islamic law, but you should take care to dress appropriately and be mindful of do’s and don’ts during the month of Ramadan.
Probably the most imminent danger in Libya is the poor standard of driving. The nation is well known for having one of the highest road death tolls in the world, and it is no secret that driving in Libya can be walk on the wild side.
Police rarely enforce traffic laws and the actions of other drivers on the road can be reckless and difficult to anticipate. Expats should be sure to exercise extreme caution while commuting, practice defensive driving at all times, and should strongly consider buying a non-luxury vehicle with a high standard of safety. As child safety seats are not commonly used by locals, it is a good idea to bring your own if you have young kids. Public transportation is hardly a more reliable option, so it’s best to brave the elements with your own instincts behind the wheel.
Police, fire and ambulance services operate in and around major cities, but they are notoriously slow to arrive and poorly equipped. Most of the employees in these services do not speak English, though they do tend to treat foreigners with deference and in some cases, even more respect than Libyan citizens.
Emergency contact numbers
Police: 193
Fire: 190
Ambulance: 191
That being said, petty crime like pick-pocketing, residential burglary and vehicle burglary is on the rise due to an underequipped police force and inefficient judicial system. Expats will find themselves targeted more often than locals. It’s important to be vigilant, especially in crowded marketplaces or in empty areas of the cities.
Foreign women may also face verbal harassment, though physical violence like rape or assault are not common. In an effort to avoid catcalls or a wandering eye it is best to dress conservatively - avoiding sleeveless tops, shorts and high cut skirts - and to avoid travelling alone.
Overall though, Libya is a safe country with low crime rates. Although some expats live in isolated compounds, it is perfectly safe to live in rented flats or villas within city limits. Many expats hire gate boys to work as live-in guards protecting their property. This is a good option if the husband spends lots of time away from home while wife and family remain behind.
If victimized, proceed to the nearest police station, major business or hotel for help.
Libyans are generally friendly toward expats; they’re congeniality motivated by the curiosity that’s followed a period of isolation from the west.
Still, it is important to remember that Libya is a Muslim country, thus expats should be respectful of culture and customs. Libya is not nearly as stringent and unforgiving as some of its nearby Middle Eastern neighbors when it comes to enforcing the tenets of Islamic law, but you should take care to dress appropriately and be mindful of do’s and don’ts during the month of Ramadan.
Driving in Libya
Probably the most imminent danger in Libya is the poor standard of driving. The nation is well known for having one of the highest road death tolls in the world, and it is no secret that driving in Libya can be walk on the wild side.
Police rarely enforce traffic laws and the actions of other drivers on the road can be reckless and difficult to anticipate. Expats should be sure to exercise extreme caution while commuting, practice defensive driving at all times, and should strongly consider buying a non-luxury vehicle with a high standard of safety. As child safety seats are not commonly used by locals, it is a good idea to bring your own if you have young kids. Public transportation is hardly a more reliable option, so it’s best to brave the elements with your own instincts behind the wheel.
Emergency services
Police, fire and ambulance services operate in and around major cities, but they are notoriously slow to arrive and poorly equipped. Most of the employees in these services do not speak English, though they do tend to treat foreigners with deference and in some cases, even more respect than Libyan citizens.
Emergency contact numbers
Police: 193
Fire: 190
Ambulance: 191
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