Middle East
Yemen
An active war zone with kidnapping, Houthi detention of foreigners and no consular help. Socotra trips via Abu Dhabi were the only real tourism, and even they stalled in 2026. Not a destination now.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa1 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyYERUS$1 ≈ ﷼236.35Details
- Price level7%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English1/5Rare
- PlugsType A, D, G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency199Police 199 · Ambulance 191 · Fire 191
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water is unsafe and cholera is endemic; drink sealed bottled water only.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedNo scene of any kind; executions and floggings have been reported in Houthi-held areas.Details
- Internet16 MbpsMedian fixed broadbandDetails
- DrivingOn the rightDon't self-drive: frontlines, checkpoints, landmines and fuel shortages. Travel only with trusted local drivers.
Where to go in Yemen
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SocotraIsland | 1/5 | — | Nov–Mar | — |
When to visit Yemen
Socotra is visited October–April; monsoon winds June–September cancel flights. The mainland is hot on the coasts and cooler in the highlands.
Good to know
Entry
- Visas are issued only through Yemeni embassies; tourism is effectively suspended outside organised Socotra trips.
- Socotra tours flew from Abu Dhabi, but ports closed and tourists were stranded in early 2026; check before booking.
- Register your passport with immigration if staying over 14 days.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites leads to arrest and arbitrary detention.
- Clothing with political symbols or slogans can get you arrested.
- Same-sex relations can carry the death penalty.
Etiquette
- Afternoon qat-chewing sessions are social; decline politely if offered.
- Dress conservatively: long sleeves and trousers for men, full cover for women.
- Never photograph people without consent.
Tipping
Small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff are customary.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Yemen
- Speedtest Global Index: Yemen
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.