In this article, we will look at the 40 Most Unfriendly Countries in the World. You can skip our detailed analysis and go directly to the 10 Most Unfriendly Countries in the World.
In a world shaped by shifting alliances and geopolitical tensions, not all countries maintain friendly ties. Especially if it is about travelling, then people prefer those countries which have a lower crime rate, so they feel secure crossing borders for business or leisure.
Despite all these alarming facts, the hospitality sector has seen tremendous expansion in recent years, with the market climbing from $4673.63 billion in 2023 to $4993.71 billion in 2024, representing a compound annual growth rate of 6.8%. The gradual expansion observed across history relates closely to the growing tourism and travel sector, changing cultural and social currents, the aftershocks of major global events and pandemics, and substantial spending on basic infrastructure.
Moreover, the integration of emerging technologies into booking and lodging platforms now gives travelers unparalleled ease and simultaneously enhances visibility and matchmaking for industry stakeholders. Yet, ongoing geopolitical unrest and instability in specific markets still hinder the industry’s ability to achieve its full growth potential over the long term.
Recently, Marriott Int (NASDAQ:MAR) has been expanding its luxury resort portfolio in comparatively placid, high-demand regions across the Middle East and Southeast Asia, aiming to capture wayfarers actively seeking refuge and reliability in uncertain times.
Marking Marriott’s 19th brand entry in South Asia, The Soaltee Kathmandu’s debut as the newest addition to the Autograph Collection brand emphasizes the company’s strengthening belief in the area’s economic dynamism and welcoming attitude towards worldwide visitors. As previously reported in our bull case analysis on Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR), the stock was trading at $257.91 as of June 16th, with a trailing P/E of 29.34 and a forward P/E of 25.45, underscoring strong investor confidence in the company’s global expansion strategy.
Concurrently, airlines and online travel agencies function as barometers for global self-assurance. Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) plays a pivotal role in shaping worldwide views of more welcoming, accessible nations through connecting vast populations to those places. Operating from Atlanta, the world’s busiest airport with over 104 million passengers in 2023, Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) established its network around Hartsfield–Jackson as its prime connector.
In 2024, Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) transported more than 200 million passengers across 52 nations on 6 continents. Most of its flights were directed toward countries ranked high on the friendliness scale, such as the UK, France, Italy, Japan, and Canada, where tourism, stability, and open borders reinforce perceptions of warmth and hospitality. Conversely, fewer flights were operated to countries that are typically ranked as unfriendly.
Thus, Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL)’s passenger statistics notably reflect outbound flows toward these “friendly” destinations. This fact provides a powerful metric for comprehending how travel patterns both demonstrate and influence global perceptions of friendly countries.
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Methodology
To create our list of the most unfriendly countries in the world, we used the Passport Index, the Global Peace Index, and the Danger and Safety Index. Each of these indices offers a unique perspective on how much a country is friendly or unfriendly. In particular, weight distribution was as follows:
⦁ Visa Acceptance Index: 40%
⦁ Global Peace Index: 30%
⦁ Danger and Safety Index: 30%
By considering these specific weights of each metric, weighted averages are calculated that reflect the relative significance of each criterion. We then ranked the most unfriendly countries in the world in descending order from 40 to 1 (based on the weighted average results). In cases where two or more countries have the same weighted average result, they are analyzed for ranking in the web sources. The countries with higher rankings in the sources would be ranked higher than the others with the same score.
With this criterion, we present you a list of the 40 most unfriendly countries in the world.
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40 Most Unfriendly Countries in the World
40. South Sudan
The ongoing political conflicts in Sudan have crippled its economy. The recent violence early this year has deepened the instability that will eventually lead to the fall of tourism in the country.
39. Eswatini
Eswatini faces widespread poverty and has grappled with one of the world’s worst HIV/AIDS crises, placing strain on its economy and workforce. Road safety is also a major concern, with frequent accidents caused by poor infrastructure, reckless driving, and hazardous conditions, posing risks for both locals and tourists.
38. Solomon Islands
Tourists in the Solomon Islands face risks from petty crime, political unrest, natural disasters, and wildlife encounters, especially in Honiara. Violent crime is less common but can happen near tourist areas and after dark, hence making it an unfriendly country.
37. Guatemala
Despite stunning natural resources like rainforests and volcanoes, Guatemala is an unfriendly country due to poverty rate. Muggings and armed robberies are common, even in daylight and tourist zones. People avoid going outside after dark.
36. Brazil
The vibrant culture and landscapes of Brazil are the major reasons for attracting 6 million visitors each year. However, illegal money exchange and scams related to credit cards are common. These issues can range from bothersome to dangerous.
35. El Salvador
El Salvador’s brutal civil war in the 1980s led to gang violence, making this country unfriendly for visitors. However, in recent years government has taken effective steps to reduce violent crime, particularily in tourist and urban areas.
34. Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is among the most diverse nations in the world, with more than 800 languages. It is also one of the most distant countries in terms of geography. In 2023, 144,000 tourists landed in Papua New Guinea, mostly from Australia, the United States, and China. However, some areas are still affected by civil wars and political unrest.
33. Tajikistan
Tajikistan is relatively secure for tourists; however, travelers still need to remain vigilant and be ready for possible dangers. The country allocates resources for developing tourism facilities. Nevertheless, the country’s mountainous landscape and its frequent road accidents pose significant challenges. Problems of security are particularly pertinent in the vicinity of borders and in certain areas that make it one of the unfriendly countries in the world.
32. Israel
Israel boasts a diverse history, vibrant culture, and remarkable natural scenery, yet travelers should remain aware of the ongoing regional tensions. Recent confrontations with Hamas in Gaza have already caused a sharp decline in tourist arrivals. Fears about terrorism and civil unrest prompted numerous governments to issue advisory alerts, thereby affecting the tourism industry.
31. Honduras
As with other Central American countries, Honduras is characterized by long-standing indigenous cultures, colonial history, and modern-day practices. Parts of the city still suffer from the persistent presence of gangs and violence, rendering certain areas troubled. However, the country retains portions that radiate warmth and vigor.
30. South Africa
South Africa is well-known for breathtaking scenery, a rich mix of cultures, and wildlife. In 2023, more than 8 million overseas visitors landed in South Africa. Public transport often proves erratic and, at times, unsafe. One of the major reasons South Africa is listed as an unfriendly country is reports of theft and sporadic violence, underscoring persistent hurdles that impact tourism.
29. Saudi Arabia
For a long time Kingdom of Saudi Arabia kept its gates open only to seasonal pilgrims, letting few outside that group see its deserts and shores. Now, though, Riyadh is rolling out visas and shining a spotlight on sites far beyond Mecca and Medina, hoping to spark a travel boom.
28. Sao Tome and Principe
São Tomé and Príncipe consist of two islands, with São Tomé being the larger and Príncipe the smaller. Locals are friendly, welcoming, and laid-back, offering a peaceful environment. Foreigners generally have no issues if they follow normal courtesy and avoid behaviors they wouldn’t do at home, fostering a stable setting for tourism-related investments.
27. Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan came under Russian rule in 1876 and secured its independence with the Soviet Union’s break-up in 1991. Today, it heads Central Asia with the region’s least restrictive visa regime, a fact its leaders often highlight. By maintaining such openness, the government hopes to boost tourism and attract new business initiatives.
26. Paraguay
In 2024, Paraguay recorded approximately 2.2 million incoming visitors, roughly 50% of whom arrived for single-day excursions from neighboring countries. The country’s past is marked by resilience; it weathered one of the bloodiest conflicts in the Americas and endured lengthy periods of authoritarian rule. Even amid this turmoil, Paraguay cultivated a distinctive bilingual identity and rich customs, creating a wide array of possibilities for would-be investors.
25. Mexico
Mexico boasts a wealth of natural wonders, including breathtaking beaches, rugged mountains, wide canyons, and a cultural scene energized by many historical currents. Because of this variety, the country appeals to almost any traveller. Such diversity keeps tourist numbers high and opens different avenues for investors.
24. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States that maintains its local government, yet its laws and policies still operate under U.S. authority. This mixed political status shapes the island’s economy and the way outsiders think about putting money to work there.
23. Bahrain
Bahrain is an island chain characterized by low, arid land that sits in the calm waters of the Persian Gulf. Its total area is even less than that of the U.S. state of Rhode Island, yet its location has long allowed it to function as a bustling port and market. Archaeological records from the Dilmun era show that ships once rested there on the way to Mesopotamia and beyond. Today, Bahrain holds the 66th spot on the Global Passport Acceptance Index.
22. Colombia
Colombia contends with high crime levels, a situation closely linked to its cocaine-growing and -trafficking operations. Such violence not only harms public safety but also sours the country’s business environment.
21. Pakistan
The Global Terrorism Index 2025 ranks Pakistan as the world’s second-most impacted country by terrorism, a position underscored by a sharp upward trend observed over recent years. Terror attacks and serious street crimes give many outsiders the impression that Pakistan is an unfriendly country, even a hostile place.
20. United States of America
Though the United States is the world’s biggest economy, the President’s latest policies of adding tariffs, which hit even close allies, and the stricter immigration rules put it on the list of unfriendly countries.
19. Lebanon
Lebanon is well-known for its friendly hospitality, but repeated political upsets and a weak economy disrupt everyday routines for people.
18. Benin
In Benin, certain areas are highlighted as unsafe for visitors, making it an unfriendly country. The main reasons behind this are street crimes, threats from protesters, and a high level of poverty.
17. Guyana
The striking landscapes, lush rainforest canopies, and amazing waterfalls are the beauty of Guyana. But the high crime rate and local protests are safety concerns for visitors.
16. Russian Federation
Russia is among the unfriendly countries mainly because of political tension with the neighbouring country, Ukraine. Moreover, the Russian government has imposed restrictions on visa approvals from various countries and has strict rules for visitors to follow.
15. Ukraine
On account of the ongoing tensions with Russia, Ukraine is not considered safe for travelers. The risk to personal safety continues to be exceptionally high for those who live around active conflict areas.
14. Venezuela
Venezuela ranks among the most unfriendly countries due to serious security threats. Also, there are no proper facilities available for the visitors.
13. Niger
Niger’s government is trying to maintain a friendly foreign policy that builds good relations with the rest of the world. This step has cooled down the tensions in the region.
12. Chad
The regional extremist movements are a major cause of security threats to foreigners in Chad, making it an unfriendly country.
11. Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is an unfriendly country because of persistent threats from terrorism, crimes, and kidnappings.
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Disclosure: None. This article was originally published at Insider Monkey.