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YemenTravel guide

Explore Yemen visa rulesCommon scams in Yemen

Yemen is a country in the southern Arabian Peninsula, with historic cities, mountains, deserts and islands. As of 2026, civil war continues, essential supplies are severely limited, and many governments advise against all travel, including to Socotra.

Why go

  1. Sana'a has a historic old city with tall, decorated houses.

  2. Socotra has white beaches and rare plants and wildlife.

  3. Shibam is known for its tall mud-brick homes.

  4. The western highlands have green mountains and historic towns.

  5. Yemeni food and hospitality are important parts of local culture.

Getting there

By air

  • The source's 2023 information says most flights were suspended. Yemenia ran limited flights to Aden from Amman, Cairo and Riyadh.
  • The source lists flights to Say'un from Aden and Cairo as of 2023.
  • As of July 2024, the source lists flights to Sana'a from Amman, Mumbai and Cairo. Other airports were closed or used only occasionally.

By land

  • There are no trains to Yemen.
  • Cars can cross from Oman, but border procedures can be difficult. Crossing by car from Saudi Arabia is much harder because of its vehicle rules.
  • Buses connect Yemen with parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including routes from Salalah to Say'un and Al Mukalla. Some buses are old and uncomfortable.

By sea

  • Passenger ferries run from Djibouti. The source describes them as cheap but uncomfortable.
  • The source mentions reports of travellers getting passage on a cement ship from Salalah to Socotra. It describes a weekly departure and a four-day crossing, with frequent delays.

Customs

  • Israeli citizens are refused entry.
  • Under rules passed in 2016, visiting Yemen on or after 1 March 2011 generally removes eligibility for visa-free entry to the United States. Exceptions apply to certain diplomatic or military visits.
  • A jambiya, the traditional curved dagger, counts as a weapon for customs purposes.

Getting around

  • Travel permits

    Foreign visitors need a travel permit, called a tasriih, for travel outside the capital. Some areas require a military escort, and others are closed to travellers. The source directs travellers to the tourist police with a passport, destinations and the length of the trip. Bring copies of your visa and passport photo page because the office copier may not work. Carry many copies of the permit to hand over at military checkpoints. The source says permits are not checked on flights to main cities.

  • Car and local driver

    A vehicle with four-wheel drive is strongly advised outside Sana'a. Many roads away from routes between major cities are unpaved. A local travel agency can arrange a driver. Maps may be less useful than expected. Traffic drives on the right. Drivers take risks, especially in Sana'a.

  • Buses and local transport

    Local buses, taxis and flights are described as lower-cost ways to travel. Buses often stop about every hour, making journeys slow. Yemitco has offices in major cities. Independent travel is not possible in some regions. Roads are especially limited in the eastern Mahra region.

  • Shared taxis

    Shared taxis leave from stations in cities and many towns. Ask for a car going to your destination. Drivers wait until every seat is filled, and cars can be crowded. You can pay for extra seats or a whole row. A woman travelling alone may be offered both front seats for one fare, but may also be charged for both.

What to see and do

  • Sana'a and Wadi Dhar

    Sana'a's old city has tall historic houses and World Heritage status. Nearby Wadi Dhar has Dar al-Hadschar Palace, also called the rock house.

  • Socotra

    This island has white beaches, turquoise seas and many species found nowhere else. Government warnings against travel also include Socotra.

  • Kawkaban

    This high fortress town has old buildings, ancient inscriptions and views across a plain of mud-brick towns.

  • Ma'rib

    The former capital of the Sabaean Kingdom has a famous ancient dam, temples and historic remains.

  • Ibb and Jiblah

    Ibb lies in Yemen's green highlands, with waterfalls in the surrounding area. The historic town of Jiblah is nearby.

  • Shibam

    Hundreds of mud-brick homes rise five to eleven storeys inside a walled town. Some buildings are more than 700 years old.

Food and drink

  • Salta

    A meat stew flavoured with fenugreek, usually served at the end of the main course.

  • Mandi

    A dish of spiced meat and rice from Hadhramaut. The meat hangs over the rice in a clay oven, letting its juices drip onto it.

  • Bint al-sahn

    A flat dough dish covered in honey.

  • Yemeni honey and raisins

    Yemeni honey is well known in the region and appears in many desserts. Raisins are another local sweet food.

  • Bottled water

    Bottled water is widely available, chilled or at room temperature. Avoid tap water.

  • Tea and coffee

    Tea is called shay, and coffee is called qahwa or bun. Yemeni coffee is weaker than Turkish coffee.

Money

Yemeni rial (YER)

  • The rial's value changes frequently, and inflation is high.
  • Two versions of the currency exist because of the civil war. The source states that banknotes issued by the central bank in Aden are accepted throughout the country.
  • Sellers may quote prices in Yemeni rials, US dollars or euros. Ask for the price in the currency you carry.
  • Bargaining is expected, including in villages. A local guide may ask for the 'Yemeni price'.

Language

  • Arabic is the official language.
  • Yemeni Arabic is the everyday language of almost everyone.
  • Modern Standard Arabic is taught in schools and can help with communication in major cities.
  • Most people speak little or no English. Gestures can help when words fail.
Tasriih
Travel permit.
Shay
Tea.
Qahwa or bun
Coffee.
Funduq
A basic guesthouse or hotel.

Staying safe

  • As of 2026, Yemen remains at war, with fighting across the country. Many governments advise against all travel, including to Socotra.
  • There is a high risk of gunfire, shelling and attacks against nearby ships. Infrastructure is damaged, and food, clean water, fuel and medical supplies are severely limited.
  • Terrorism and kidnappings have affected foreigners.
  • Local conditions and access restrictions are essential to understand. Some areas require military escorts, while others are completely closed.
5 common scams in Yemen, and how to avoid them

Local customs

Do

  • Be polite and considerate with local people.
  • During Ramadan, respect the daily fast from dawn to sunset. Most restaurants close until dusk.
  • Expect shorter working hours during Ramadan.
  • Make an effort to use Arabic. Local people generally appreciate it.

Don't

  • Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan daylight hours, even if you are not Muslim.
  • Do not drink alcohol in public.
  • Do not go outside while under the influence of alcohol.

Staying healthy

  • Health facilities are seriously underdeveloped, and medical supplies are limited. The source advises going to Oman or Saudi Arabia if you become seriously ill.
  • The source reports a cholera outbreak. Wash your hands often, cook food thoroughly and maintain good hygiene.
  • Avoid tap water and choose bottled water. Juice may also contain tap water.
  • Dust can cause problems for people with asthma or other breathing difficulties, especially in remote areas.

Where to stay

  • Outside Sana'a, Aden and Al Mukalla, accommodation is often basic. Expect floor mattresses and shared toilets and showers.
  • Most larger villages have a funduq, a basic guesthouse often named after the village.
  • Electricity can be unreliable, so hot water is not guaranteed.
  • Funduqs use a local 'sheet' scale rather than stars. Bringing a sheet may be useful in some places.

Outdoor adventures in Yemen

Yemen has mountain scenery, forests, rare wildlife and beaches on the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. Socotra, Jabal Sabir and the forests of Bura’ and Hauf are outdoor highlights. As of 2026, fighting continues, essential supplies and medical care are severely limited, and many governments advise against all travel, including to Socotra.

  • Socotra wildlife and rare plants

    WildlifeSocotra

    Socotra is an island off Yemen’s south coast. Transport, guides and visiting arrangements are not specified.

    • Many governments advise against all travel to Socotra.

  • Socotra beaches

    BeacheSocotra

    The beaches are on Socotra, off Yemen’s south coast. No individual beach access routes are specified.

    • Many governments advise against all travel to Socotra.

  • Jabal Sabir ascent

    HikeYemeni Mountainsnear Ta’izz

    The mountain rises above Ta’izz. No starting point or marked route is specified. General mountain travel guidance recommends a local driver or guide.

    • Permit: A pass, meaning official permission to travel beyond city limits, is described as required. This guidance applies only when visits become possible again.
    • The summit is about 3,000 m high; watch for dizziness during a rapid climb.
    • Hiking routes in Yemen can have loose stones and very steep sections.

  • Hauf National Park forest and wildlife

    WildlifeEastern Yemen, near the Oman border

    The forest lies near the Oman border. No park entrance, route or operator is specified.

  • Bura’ protected forest

    WildlifeAl Hudaydah Governorate

    Visit the protected mountain forest in Al Hudaydah Governorate. No entrance or access route is specified.

    • The mountain reaches about 2,200 m; be alert to dizziness during rapid climbs.
    • General hiking guidance advises plenty of water and sun protection.

  • Bir Ali beach

    BeacheArabian Sea coastnear Mukalla

    Bir Ali is a drive of about 100 km from Mukalla. General travel guidance recommends a local driver and a four-wheel-drive vehicle outside main city routes.

    • Permit: A pass, meaning official permission to travel beyond city limits, is described as required. This guidance applies only when visits become possible again.
    • Roads away from the main routes between cities are often unpaved.

  • Al Khawkhah beach

    BeacheRed Sea coastnear Al Khawkhah

    The long beach is beside Al Khawkhah town and backed by palm fields. No transport arrangements are specified.

    • Summer temperatures commonly exceed 48°C.
    • Malaria is present in low-lying areas along the Red Sea.

  • Gold Mohur Beach

    BeacheAdennear Aden

    Visit Gold Mohur Beach in Aden. No transport or entry arrangements are specified.

  • Elephant Bay

    BeacheAdennear Aden

    Elephant Bay Hotel is named as a coastal place to visit in Aden. Beach access arrangements are not specified.

  • Sheraton Hotel women-only beach

    BeacheAdennear Aden

    The beach is described as being at the Sheraton Hotel in Aden. Entry and booking arrangements are not specified.

  • Aden snorkelling

    SnorkellingAden coastnear Aden

    Snorkelling is described as available in Aden. No specific site, equipment provider or operator is named.

  • Aden lagoon birdwatching

    WildlifeAdennear Aden

    Birdwatching is possible at Aden’s lagoons. No individual lagoon or access route is named.

  • Aden mountain-top walks

    HikeAdennear Aden

    Climb the mountain tops around Aden for views. No specific trail or starting point is given.

    • Keep out of areas marked as no trespassing.
    • Carry plenty of water and sun protection.

  • Aden coastal sport fishing

    More to doAden coastnear Aden

    Sport fishing takes place near the coast. No boat operator or booking arrangements are specified.

    • The country warning includes a risk of attacks against ships nearby.

  • Wadi Dhahr valley visit

    More to doSana’a surroundingsnear Sana’a

    The valley is a few kilometres outside Sana’a. General advice for trips outside the city recommends a local driver or guide and a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

    • Permit: A pass, meaning official permission to travel beyond city limits, is described as required. This guidance applies only when visits become possible again.
    • Maps may be of limited use outside cities.
    • Many roads away from main city routes are unpaved.

  • Ibb mountain scenery and waterfalls

    More to doYemeni Mountainsnear Ibb

    Ibb lies in a valley surrounded by mountains. Personal-driver trips are described for Yemen’s mountains, but no waterfall route is specified.

    • The surrounding mountains reach about 3,300 m; watch for dizziness during rapid climbs.
    • Carry water and sun protection when walking.

  • Hadhramaut Mountains and Husn Ghuraf

    More to doHadhramautnear Mukalla

    The Hadhramaut Mountains, including Husn Ghuraf, are near Mukalla. General mountain travel guidance recommends trips with a personal driver; no specific route is given.

    • Permit: A pass, meaning official permission to travel beyond city limits, is described as required. This guidance applies only when visits become possible again.
    • A four-wheel-drive vehicle is almost essential away from the main routes between cities.
    • Consider a local driver or guide because maps may be of limited use.

Airports, metros and trains in Yemen

Airports with scheduled flights

  • ADEAden International AirportAdenMain international airport
  • RIYRiyan International AirportMukalla(Riyan)Main international airport
  • SAHSanaa International AirportSanaaMain international airport
  • GXFSeiyun Hadhramaut International AirportSeiyunMain international airport

People and safety in Yemen

Religion

Most people are Muslim. Mostly one faith.

  • Muslim99%
  • Hindu<1%

LGBT+ travellers

Illegal, with the death penalty in law

  • The law allows death penalty.
  • Legal gender change is not recognised.

Check your own government's travel advice before you go, and be careful with public displays of affection and dating apps.

Women travellers

Ranked #180 of 181 countries for women's safety, inclusion and justice.

43% of women say they feel safe walking alone at night where they live.

Who can visit without a visa

Travellers from 12 of 198 countries can visit Yemen easily: no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Visa not required1
  • Visa on arrival11
  • eVisa2
  • Visa required182
  • Admission refused2

Who can visit easily, by part of the world

For each part of the world: how many countries' travellers can come easily. Easy means no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Asia10 of 49 countries
  • Africa2 of 54 countries
  • Europe0 of 46 countries
  • Americas0 of 35 countries
  • Oceania0 of 14 countries

Questions

Is Yemen safe for a first visit?

As of 2026, fighting continues and there are serious risks from attacks, terrorism and kidnapping. Many governments advise against all travel, including to Socotra.

What is the weather like?

The west coast is hot and humid, while the eastern desert is extremely hot and dry. The western mountains are cooler, and winter nights in Sana'a can reach freezing.

Can I travel independently?

Independent travel is not allowed in some regions. Travel outside the capital requires a permit, and some areas need a military escort or are closed entirely.

Can I get by with English?

Most Yemenis speak little or no English. Arabic is the main language, and gestures can help with simple communication.

What money do people use?

The currency is the Yemeni rial. Sellers may also accept US dollars and euros, and bargaining is expected.

Is tap water safe to drink?

The source advises avoiding tap water. Bottled water is widely available.

What local food should I know about?

Salta is a meat stew flavoured with fenugreek, and mandi is spiced meat with rice. Bint al-sahn is a honey-covered dough dish.

What are basic guesthouses like?

A funduq often has floor mattresses and shared bathrooms. Electricity may be unreliable, so hot water is not guaranteed.

What changes during Ramadan?

Most restaurants close until dusk, and working hours are shorter. Visitors should avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.

What is qat?

Qat is a leaf commonly chewed socially and acts as a mild stimulant. The source links it to insomnia, reduced appetite, and cancers of the mouth and food pipe.

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