Middle East and North Africa

Terrorism

There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see terrorism abroad.

There is a risk of kidnap from terrorists operating in North Africa. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increase the risk of further hostage taking.

 

Crime

 

Violent crime is not a major problem in Libya, but it is on the increase. You should take steps to protect your safety and personal security. There are increasingly frequent incidents of pick pocketing in the busy market areas and house break-ins. Ex-pats may be a particular target. Car theft has increased recently: be vigilant at all times.

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

 

Libya country profile

 

You should be aware of the impact that the situation in Iraq, as well as violence between the Israelis and Palestinians, has had across the Arab world and the risk of public disturbance in response. You should follow news reports and be alert to developments in the Middle East that might trigger public disturbances. For example, a recent deterioration in Libyan/Swiss relations has caused difficulties for Swiss citizens in Libya. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.

British citizens who are currently in Libya or planning to visit Libya should monitor political developments that might impact on British interests. British organisations in Libya should keep their contingency plans up-to-date.

Local Travel

We advise against all but essential travel to areas bordering Sudan, Chad, Niger and Algeria (see specific advice below on the towns of Ghadames and Ghat), owing to the threat from cross-border criminal activity and regional instability. There is a higher threat from terrorism and other criminal activity in these areas. With the exception of the official land border crossings to Tunisia and Egypt, visitors and residents are not permitted to travel in the interior or to border areas without an officially sanctioned guide or specific permission from the Libyan authorities.

Given their proximity to the border, you should exercise caution in the towns of Ghadames and Ghat, taking sensible precautions for your personal safety and travelling only with an officially sanctioned guide or specific permission from the Libyan authorities.

You require prior permission (a desert pass) from the Libyan authorities if you intend to travel to the desert regions. Your tour operator will usually be able to do this for you. If you obtain a desert pass you should avoid those desert areas where oil extraction is in operation and the border areas mentioned above. Oil companies will provide passes for their employees. 

The Libyan authorities may restrict access to the more remote parts of the country (e.g. desert areas and remote towns) at short notice. Visitors should check with their tour operator or the Libyan authorities for the latest information.

Road Travel

 

The standard of driving in Libya is very poor, but the roads are generally in a reasonable condition. You should take care when driving anywhere in Libya - always wear a seatbelt and drive defensively. All off-road driving to the desert is best done in groups. You should ensure that you are well prepared with enough fuel, water and food etc.

For more general information see driving abroad.