Asia and Oceania

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

While Mongolia is relatively safe, violent muggings and attacks do occur from time to time.  You should avoid going out alone on foot at night.  Instead use the taxis to return to your hotel.  They are clearly identifiable and inexpensive.  Many bars and restaurants will telephone for one for you.  In February 2009, a resident Japanese teacher was attacked and killed walking home in the centre of town in the early hours of the morning.  The motive was thought to have been theft.
 
Petty crime is common in Ulaanbaatar, particularly in markets or other crowded public places.  Watch out for pickpockets. Also be wary of large groups of street children and teenagers, particularly at night, who have been reportedly harassing pedestrians for money whilst entering and leaving vehicles, pubs and restaurants. Keep your passports, wallets and purses well secured.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Mongolia country profile

 

Mongolia is a stable parliamentary democracy.

On 1 July 2008, after the announcement of the results of the previous weekend's parliamentary elections, there was a demonstration in the centre of Ulaanbaatar, which turned violent.  At least five people were killed.  The President introduced a four-day state of emergency. The city quickly reverted to its habitual calm, and there were no further disturbances after the state of emergency was lifted.  But at times of heightened political tension you should monitor local media and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

Travelling in Mongolia, particularly outside Ulaanbaatar, can be challenging.  If you are planning to travel into the countryside, you should consider carrying a Global Positioning System and emergency communications, such as a satellite phone.  Mongolia experiences extremes of weather, from +35C in summer to –40C in winter.  Even in summer, because of the altitude, evenings can be cold and weather conditions can change without warning.  You should always be prepared for this and take appropriate provisions, including warm clothing, food and water if you are going out of town. 

The standard of driving in Mongolia is poor.  There are many fatal accidents. You should wear a seat belt whenever possible.  There are few tarmac roads, especially outside Ulaanbaatar.  The maintenance of vehicles is also poor and breakdowns are frequent, which can lead to long delays.  You need an International Driving Permit to drive in Mongolia.

For further information see Driving Abroad.

 

Evidence suggests that domestic services (including helicopter services) in Mongolia do not always comply with international safety standards. FCO and UN staff use Eznis for internal flights. We are not aware of concerns about the maintenance of aircraft operated by internationally based charter operations or scheduled internal airlines. There have in the past been safety concerns about Aero Mongolia’s aircraft, however. On 8 January 2009 an Aero Mongolia aircraft had to make an emergency landing at Murun airport because of a technical problem, and the Mongolian Civil Aviation Authority has temporarily prohibited the company from operating any flights. The Embassy has also received occasional reports of maintenance problems interrupting some long-haul international flights operated by domestic airlines. You should bear this in mind when making your travel plans. Bad weather can also delay many domestic and international flights, sometimes for several days.