Health & Safety Guide for UK Visitors

Emergency Numbers & Police

The number to remember in any emergency in Malta is 112, free to call from any phone, whether or not you have credit or a local SIM. It connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services from a single call — you don't need to know in advance which one you need. The Malta Police Force maintains a visible presence in tourist areas including Valletta, and for anything non-urgent, your local police station can help directly.

Healthcare for UK Visitors — The GHIC Card

One of the most useful things a UK visitor can do before travelling to Malta is apply for a free GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) via the NHS website. It entitles you to state-provided healthcare in Malta on the same terms as Maltese citizens — meaning necessary medical treatment during your trip, without the bill you might expect outside Europe. Mater Dei Hospital, just outside Valletta, is the main public hospital, offering quality emergency care and a dedicated paediatric department for travelling families. A GHIC covers necessary state treatment, but it isn't a substitute for travel insurance — private cover alongside it is still worth having, particularly for anything the state system doesn't include, such as repatriation.

Road Safety

Malta drives on the left, same as the UK, which most UK visitors find immediately familiar. Even so, roads in historic town centres can be narrow and busy, and pedestrian crossings aren't always where you'd expect them. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing rather than assuming right of way. If you're deciding how to explore, our guide to getting around Malta covers the public bus network and taxis — a genuinely easy way to let a local driver handle the busier roads while you enjoy the view instead.

Sun Safety

The Mediterranean sun is genuinely stronger than most UK visitors are used to — the UV index regularly reaches 9–10 in summer, and skin can burn faster than expected, especially for children. High-SPF sunscreen applied regularly, a hat, and seeking shade during the peak hours of 11am–3pm are as routine a precaution here as checking the forecast is at home. It's a simple habit that makes the difference between a comfortable holiday and an uncomfortable one.

Beach & Water Safety

Malta's main swimming beaches are calm, with minimal currents, and professional lifeguards are on duty at all major beaches from June through September — the core of the visitor season. Always swim within flagged areas and follow any posted warnings, even on a calm-looking day. For a full rundown of where to go, see our guide to the best beaches in Malta.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the practical points above, it's worth knowing that Malta consistently records one of the lowest crime rates in the European Union, and violent crime affecting visitors is genuinely rare. The handful of things worth real attention — roads, sun, and the sea — are exactly the same things worth watching on any Mediterranean holiday, nothing specific to Malta beyond the intensity of its summer sun.

Frequently Asked Questions