Uzbekistan Travel Safety

Road safety

Many roads outside Tashkent are in poor condition, particularly in the Tian Shan and Fan mountains. Rural roads and highways are not lit. Police frequently stop drivers for minor infractions or to verify their identification. Foreigners may face harassment, including demands for money. Driving standards are poor, and driving at night is dangerous.

Public transportation

Exercise caution when travelling by train, especially overnight. Store valuables in a safe place and do not leave the compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside. When travelling by rail or road in Uzbekistan, it is sometimes necessary to cross into neighbouring countries. Only use officially marked taxis. Do not share taxis with strangers.

Women's safety

The rate of violent crime in Uzbekistan, including violent crime against foreigners, has increased in recent years, although official numbers are low. Women should be extremely vigilant at isolated places and while dealing with strangers. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Female visitors and residents should take care when walking or travelling alone even during daylight hours. Exercise a very high degree of caution during travel.

Crime

Foreigners may be targets of violent crimes, and have been robbed by individuals posing as police officers. If approached, ask to see police credentials or offer to go to the police station. Street crime is more frequent after dark in urban centres. Do not travel alone after dark and do not show signs of affluence.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Uzbekistan. Targets could include tourist areas, commercial establishments (e.g. hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars), schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events, and sites frequented by foreigners. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Religion

The country religion, customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour. Dress conservatively - for women: knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable, women should avoid clothing that could be construed as revealing, such as miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless or low-cut (front or back) blouses and tops, men: should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Uzbek's culture. During the lunar month of Ramadan, use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.

LGBT

Homosexuality is illegal under Uzbek law and is still very much frowned upon socially. You should take care over public displays of affection.

Illegal or restricted activities

While restrictions have been relaxed recently, you should check before using a camera, especially near airports, border checkpoints, military barracks, bridges, police stations and metro stations.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended.