Dominican Republic Joins Albania, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Qatar, South Africa And More As Australia Issues New Travel Alert Amid Heightened Security And Safety Risks For Foreign Tourists

Published on February 25, 2026

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Australia has issued a new travel alert, warning citizens about the heightened security risks in several countries, including the Dominican Republic, which has joined Albania, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Qatar, and South Africa on the list. This decision comes in response to a significant increase in safety concerns for foreign tourists. In the Dominican Republic, escalating criminal activity—particularly in popular tourist areas like Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, where tourists have been targeted by armed robberies and violent assaults—has raised alarm. Similarly, countries such as Albania, Türkiye, and Egypt are dealing with issues ranging from political instability and terrorist threats to organized crime. The advisory highlights these growing risks, urging travelers to reconsider their plans and take extra precautions when visiting these regions, where both petty crime and more severe threats to safety are on the rise.

The travel landscape is once again shifting as Australia has issued a new travel alert, urging citizens to be cautious when visiting various international destinations. Among the nations now flagged as higher-risk for foreign tourists is the Dominican Republic, which joins a list that includes Albania, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Qatar, South Africa, and more. This warning comes amidst growing concerns over rising security and safety risks, affecting both tourists and local populations. With the increase in global tourism, travelers are being urged to reconsider their travel plans to these regions as heightened security threats become more evident.

The Dominican Republic, long known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, has found itself under scrutiny due to reports of escalating criminal activity, especially in tourist hotspots. Tourists have become prime targets for petty theft, pickpocketing, and more severe crimes in some areas. As a result, the Australian government is advising against unnecessary travel to certain parts of the Caribbean nation, urging caution when visiting popular tourist destinations.

Why the Dominican Republic Was Added to the List

The recent surge in criminal activity has played a significant role in the Dominican Republic’s inclusion on the list of countries with heightened security risks. Incidents of armed robberies, drug-related violence, and occasional attacks on foreign tourists have raised alarms within the international community. While the country is still a popular destination for many, travelers are now being urged to exercise extra vigilance.

Australia’s new travel alert highlights the importance of staying informed about local conditions, especially in areas where crime has been reported at higher rates. While many regions of the Dominican Republic remain safe, certain parts of the country have seen an uptick in violent crime, including attacks on visitors. Popular tourist cities like Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, and Punta Cana have witnessed rising concerns, and the Australian government has emphasized the need for tourists to avoid walking alone at night and to be cautious in high-traffic areas.

Other Countries Under Watch

The Dominican Republic’s inclusion in the travel advisory follows a broader trend of countries where security and safety risks for foreign nationals have escalated. Nations such as Albania, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Qatar, and South Africa have all faced similar warnings from Australia in recent years. In many of these countries, political instability, organized crime, or civil unrest has heightened the risks for travelers.

Albania: Albania has emerged as a growing tourist destination, yet it faces challenges related to criminal activity, including thefts, pickpocketing, and even more violent crimes in certain areas. Tourists are advised to be cautious in areas where there is a history of gang-related activity and to avoid isolated areas after dark.

Türkiye: Türkiye has long been a top travel destination for Australians and many other tourists. However, political instability and terrorist-related incidents, especially in its southeastern regions, have made it a country of concern for foreign visitors. Australia’s travel alert warns that visitors should exercise caution, particularly in areas near the Syrian border.

Egypt: Egypt, a country rich in history and ancient wonders, has seen a rise in political unrest and protests in recent years. With occasional terrorist attacks targeting tourists and areas of political instability, Australia’s alert advises caution when traveling to cities like Cairo and Luxor, especially near government buildings and crowded public spaces.

Indonesia: Indonesia, known for its tropical islands and vibrant culture, has also faced its share of security risks. Terrorism, natural disasters, and political unrest have contributed to the heightened risk profile for some regions. Bali, while generally safe, has seen occasional incidents of violent crime, and travelers are advised to remain vigilant.

Thailand: Thailand, a favorite for its beaches, nightlife, and rich culture, is also a country where political instability has occasionally led to violence, particularly during times of protests or military rule. Petty crime is also a concern, and foreign nationals are urged to exercise caution, particularly in busy tourist hubs like Bangkok and Pattaya.

Qatar: While Qatar has made strides in modernization and infrastructure, it is not exempt from concerns related to large crowds and international events. With the influx of visitors during major events like the FIFA World Cup, security remains a key issue, and travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

South Africa: South Africa continues to face challenges related to violent crime, including carjackings, armed robberies, and muggings, particularly in cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. While the country remains a popular destination for its wildlife and rich culture, tourists are advised to stay in well-secured areas and avoid walking at night.

How Tourists Can Stay Safe

While the travel alerts are concerning, they are by no means meant to dissuade all tourism to these regions. Instead, the Australian government urges travelers to take specific precautions to protect their safety. Staying informed about the current situation in a destination before arrival is critical, as is following local news and travel advisories while abroad.

In the Dominican Republic, as in other affected countries, tourists are advised to take the following measures:

1. Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for private, pre-arranged transportation rather than public transport, especially in areas known for higher crime rates.
2. Avoid Nighttime Walks: Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone, particularly after dark.
3. Stay in Secure Accommodations: Choose well-known hotels with robust security features, such as 24-hour front desks and surveillance cameras.
4. Be Cautious with Valuables: Keep valuables, such as jewelry, expensive electronics, and large sums of cash, out of sight to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always stay alert, especially in crowded tourist areas. Criminals often prey on distracted tourists.
6. Know Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and the Australian embassy or consulate in the area.

Looking Ahead: The Global Travel Landscape

The travel landscape has changed considerably in recent years, with rising global tensions, political instability, and shifting security dynamics playing a significant role in the safety of international tourists. While Australia’s new travel alert includes some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, it is important to note that travel advisories are often updated, and regions previously considered safe may become areas of concern.

For those looking to travel to the Dominican Republic or other high-risk countries, it is essential to exercise due diligence and stay updated on the latest advisories. Authorities in many countries have made strides in improving security, but risks remain, and travelers must adapt accordingly.

As countries continue to face a variety of challenges, from natural disasters to terrorism and political upheaval, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed and prepared. Whether visiting the Dominican Republic, South Africa, or any other region under increased scrutiny, personal safety should always be the top priority.

Australia has issued a new travel alert, adding the Dominican Republic to a list of countries—including Albania, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Qatar, and South Africa—due to rising security risks such as increasing violent crime, armed robberies, and threats to foreign tourists.

In conclusion, while the Dominican Republic’s inclusion in Australia’s travel alert is a reflection of broader global safety concerns, it also highlights the need for heightened vigilance as tourism grows around the world. By staying informed, planning carefully, and following safety guidelines, travelers can continue to explore the world while minimizing risk.