Hi,
I only got here on the 23rd of Feb 09, but it is safe, I have done lots of walking around day and night with no problem, people are very friendly.
When I arrived I had to have a very thorough medical so attended the 11th Street Clinic, I qued up with the locals and no one stared or pointed at the ex pat :-), my only problem was finding what room I had to go to, because all the door markings are in Arabic (as are the street signs) but some of the nurses speak english and helped me out, but the clinic was both clean and efficient, if a little old looking.
I hope this helps
Cheers
Geoff