Top 10 Strictest Countries in the World for Tourists

CHINA

China welcomes millions of international visitors, but tourists should be careful around military buildings, government offices and politically sensitive locations.

Some websites, messaging services and social-media platforms may be blocked. Travelers should keep their passports readily available and avoid participating in demonstrations or photographing restricted areas.

QATAR

Qatar is modern and generally comfortable for visitors, but its laws reflect local Islamic traditions.

Public drunkenness, offensive gestures, and inappropriate behavior can lead to legal problems. Tourists should dress modestly in public places and be especially respectful during Ramadan.

United Arab Emirates

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are famous tourist destinations, but UAE laws can be stricter than visitors expect.

Drinking alcohol in public or appearing drunk outside licensed venues is illegal. Sharjah prohibits alcohol completely. Offensive online posts, public arguments, and photographing people without permission may also create serious problems.

BHUTAN

Bhutan carefully controls tourism to protect its environment and culture.

Most international visitors need advance visa approval and must pay a Sustainable Development Fee. Adult visitors currently pay a daily fee of 100 US dollars per night, in addition to a visa application charge. Religious sites also have strict rules about clothing and photography.

SIGNAPORE

Singapore is safe, clean and easy to explore, partly because its laws are strongly enforced.

Drug offenses carry extremely severe penalties. Vaping products are prohibited; littering can result in fines; and smoking is allowed only in designated places. Visitors should never assume that a minor offense will be ignored.

BRUNEI

Brunei follows strict Islamic laws.

The sale of alcohol and tobacco is illegal, although non-Muslim adults may import a limited amount of alcohol, declare it and consume it privately. Drug offenses can result in long prison sentences, corporal punishment or, in certain cases, the death penalty.

SAUDI ARABIA

Saudi Arabia has opened more widely to international tourism, but visitors must still respect conservative social rules.

Alcohol is prohibited, modest clothing is expected, and public affection should be avoided. Tourists must also stay away from restricted religious areas and avoid photographing government or military facilities.

IRAN

Iran has strict religious, social, and political laws. Women must follow compulsory clothing requirements, including wearing a head covering.

Alcohol is illegal, and penalties can be severe. Photography near military, government, or infrastructure sites may result in detention. Several governments currently advise their citizens against traveling there.

TURKMENISTAN

Turkmenistan is one of the world’s least accessible destinations. Travelers normally require a visa and supporting documents, while independent movement may be limited.

Visitors should not photograph government buildings, security officers or sensitive locations. Passports must generally remain valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date.

North Korea

North Korea is widely considered the strictest country for tourists.

Visitors who are admitted usually follow controlled itineraries and remain with approved guides. Independent travel, unscheduled conversations, and photography of sensitive subjects may be restricted. United States passports are currently invalid for travel to or through North Korea without special validation.