Yemen
Middle East · Asia
- Capital
- Sanaa
- Currency
- Yemeni Rial (YER ﷼)
- Language
- Arabic
- Timezone
- UTC+3
- Safety rating
- 1.5/10
- Best time to visit
- Socotra is best from October to April when seas are calm and the monsoon has passed.
Overview
Yemen possesses extraordinary heritage, from the gingerbread tower-houses of old Sanaa to the otherworldly dragon's blood trees of Socotra island, a UNESCO biodiversity wonder. Ancient mud-brick skyscrapers at Shibam earned it the title 'Manhattan of the Desert.' Prolonged war, however, has made the mainland one of the most dangerous places on earth.
Visa requirements
Tourist visas are effectively unobtainable for mainland Yemen, though the island of Socotra is accessed via special charter arrangements and permits.
Safety information
Yemen is engulfed in conflict and humanitarian crisis with extreme risks of terrorism, kidnapping, and landmines; virtually all governments advise against any travel. Consular assistance is unavailable.
Travel tips
Bring all money in cash as banking is collapsed. Any travel must be arranged through specialized operators with permits. Connectivity and infrastructure are extremely limited.