Islamabad Emerges Among World’s Top 100 Safest Cities

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad has earned a notable place on the global safety map by securing the 93rd spot in Numbeo’s 2025 World Safety Index. It ranks ahead of some of the world’s most developed cities, such as London, New York, Paris, and Berlin.

The index, which evaluates 380 cities worldwide based on crime rates, safety perception, and quality of life, assigned Islamabad a safety score of 67.9. In contrast, London and Paris lag far behind at 270th and 303rd positions with safety scores of 45.8 and 41.9, respectively. Even Berlin, known for its strong law enforcement, stands at 187th, while Moscow ranks 118th with a score of 64.6. Closer to home, Lahore holds the 130th position with a score of 63.1.

The improved ranking is being attributed to strategic reforms and a major crackdown on crime under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi. According to an Islamabad Police spokesperson, the capital city witnessed a 20% overall decline in crime in 2025 compared to the previous year, thanks to coordinated efforts and improved patrolling measures.

Major Decline in Key Crime Categories

Crime reduction statistics for 2025 include:

Crime Category	Decrease
Street Robbery	19%
Theft	12%
Burglary	74%
Vehicle/Motorcycle Theft	22%
Murder	17%
Total Crimes (2025 vs 2024)	600 fewer cases

These figures reflect an aggressive policy shift focusing on public safety. The police also launched a large-scale anti-narcotics campaign titled “Nasha Ab Nahin”, engaging with youth in schools and colleges while arresting several drug dealers and seizing illegal substances across the capital.

In addition to criminal deterrence, Islamabad Police ensured high-level security protocols during major national and international events, including the Pakistan Super League and diplomatic gatherings, further enhancing the city’s image globally.

Reinforcing this recognition, the United Nations had previously declared Islamabad a “family station” for its staff, signaling international confidence in the city’s security and livability.

With a strengthened law enforcement framework and a visible drop in crime, Islamabad’s position among the safest cities signals a positive trajectory for urban security in Pakistan.