Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Yemen depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for YemenEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 194
- Ambulance
- 191
Currency
- Name
- Yemeni Rial
- Code
- YER
- Symbol
- ﷼
Cash economy. USD and SAR (Saudi Riyal) used in some areas. Note: Yemen has been in active civil war since 2015 — most of the country is inaccessible. Socotra Island (currently more accessible, though affected by conflict) is the primary destination discussed by travel writers. This entry is provided for informational interest only.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type A, Type D, Type G
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
AST (UTC+3) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
Pre-conflict, October–April was the tourist season. Socotra Island (UNESCO World Heritage) is most accessible October–April before the monsoon. Dragon blood trees (Dracaena cinnabari) are unique in the world and found only on Socotra.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Guides | $10–15 USD per day | — |
Dress Code
- Conservative dress throughout — Yemen is a very conservative Muslim country
- Women must cover hair and wear loose, full-length clothing
Social Etiquette
- Yemeni hospitality was legendary — qat-chewing sessions (afternoon social gatherings) and elaborate coffee ceremonies defined daily life
- Socotra's biodiversity (37% of plants found nowhere else on earth) makes it one of the world's most remarkable islands
- The Old City of Sana'a's tower houses are among the most architecturally unique in the world
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- CRITICAL: Yemen has been in active civil war since 2015. Most Western governments advise against all travel. The Houthi conflict, Saudi-led coalition operations, and general lawlessness make travel extremely dangerous. Do not visit until the conflict ends.
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal with severe penalties
- Alcohol is completely prohibited
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Arabic) | مرحبا / السلام عليكم (Marhaba / As-salamu alaykum) | MAR-hah-bah / ah-SAH-lah-moo ah-LAY-koom |
| Thank you (Arabic) | شكرا (Shukran) | SHOO-krahn |
| Dragon blood tree | دم الأخوين (Dam al-akhawain) | dahm al-ah-kha-WAYN — 'blood of the two brothers' |
| Welcome (Arabic) | أهلا وسهلا (Ahlan wa sahlan) | AH-lan wah SAH-lan |
| Socotra (local name) | سقطرى (Suqutra) | soo-KOO-trah |
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