Menu

Move directly to: Practical information / Local culture

Yemen practical travel information

Updated Octomber 2024

Your trip

Why do we talk about Socotra and Yemen?

The Socotra archipelago is part of Yemen, with the main island being Socotra. The island is located about 300 km off the coast of Yemen. It’s only accessible by plane (approx. 1.5 hours from the mainland) or by cargo boat (approx. 24 hours). On the island, you won’t notice anything about the civil war on the mainland. You can walk around on Socotra alone and the Socotri also feel to some extent independent of the mainland. The island remains part of Yemen and on the island, you can also find many aspects of Yemeni culture. The Socotri often have family living on the mainland. 

When is the best time to plan your visit to Yemen (Hadramaut)?

The best time to visit Hadramaut is from October to April, when the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging between 30-35°C. During these months, you’ll avoid the intense heat and potential rains of the summer, making it ideal for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. Nights can be cooler, especially in the desert, so if you’re planning on camping or staying in the more remote areas, it’s a good idea to bring along a warm layer for the evenings.

Do I need insurance for my trip to Yemen (Hadramaut)?

Everyone must take out travel and health insurance before leaving for Yemen (Hadramaut). Whether Yemen (Hadramaut) is covered by your policy differs per insurance policy. In most cases, this will not be a problem. At CultureRoad we recommend: IATI Travel Insurance, a reliable company that has different insurance options that fit your personal needs. Book now to get a 5% discount!

Do I need a visa for Yemen (Hadramaut)?

For travel to Hadramaut, it’s important to know that you’ll need a Yemeni visa, which is valid for mainland Yemen. We will assist in arranging the visa for you as part of your trip. Important: If your passport contains any stamps from Israel or Iran, it might be a problem, so be aware of that.

What is the time zone in Yemen?

Yemen operates on the UCT +2 time zone all year round. There’s no difference between summer and winter time, so you won’t need to worry about adjusting your clocks during your stay.

How can I pay and how much will I spend on Yemen (Hadramaut)?

Yemenis pay with the Yemeni Rial. Make sure you bring enough cash with you on the trip, as there are no ATMs in the country. Euros are generally accepted at banks and exchange offices. However, it is wiser to bring American Dollars. These are accepted everywhere and can easily be changed. You also get a much better exchange rate for Dollars. Make sure you bring neat, crisp banknotes. For the most recent exchange rate, visit XE Currency Converter.

Of course it mainly depends on yourself how much you actually spend, but as a guideline we suggest about € 5 to € 10 per day. You should be able to make it with that amount. If you like to buy souvenirs, you better bring something extra.

Tipping local guides is always encouraged. They don’t earn much in this part of the world and it often makes a big difference to them. Of course this is according to your own preference.

Do I have to arrange my international flight to Yemen (Hadramaut) myself?

We will assist with the flight from Cairo to Seiyun. The flight to Cairo you will have to arrange yourself. We are always available to advise you when booking a flight. However, most customers prefer to book the flight themselves. Often this is cheaper in terms of price and you can pick your own preferences. 

Practical information

What is the voltage and which plug should I use in Yemen?

Yemen runs on a 220V/50Hz electrical system, like Europe, but power can be sporadic, especially in more remote parts. The power supply in Yemen can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s essential to charge your phones and cameras whenever you have access to electricity. Be sure to pack plenty of external batteries, as you’ll want to capture all the unforgettable moments without worrying about running out of power.

If you have car adapters, definitely bring them along—you can charge your devices while we’re on the move. And don’t forget an electrical/universal adapter to ensure your plugs are compatible!

Is there internet access and can I make calls on Yemen (Hadramaut)?

In Yemen, there’s WiFi at the hotels. Getting a sim card is possible but it takes time, time that we prefer to spend on the tour than in a phone shop.  

Local culture

What are the local customs on Yemen (Hadramaut)?

Yemen is a strict Islamic country. Although they accept that tourists wear different clothes, it is good to think about it. As a woman you are not obliged to wear a headscarf, but in the villages it is very much appreciated. Sadly, you will also encounter a lot of poverty on the island. The luxury that we know in Western countries is not present here. Hotels are very basic and restaurants often only have one dish on the menu. Despite this, the residents are very hospitable and you are welcomed with prying eyes everywhere. 
A few rules to keep in mind:
– Do not take photos of military, military vehicles, or military installations in use.
– Do not take photos of government buildings.
– Always take off your shoes when entering a mosque or house. Never show your shoe sole when you sit down.
– Don’t walk in front of someone who is praying.
– As a man you cannot start a conversation / contact a woman.
– Always ask permission before taking a photo. Don’t just take pictures of women or praying people.

Is it safe on Yemen (Hadramaut)?

When it comes to safety, there’s a notable difference between various regions of mainland Yemen, including Hadramaut, and other parts like Socotra. While some areas of mainland Yemen experience unrest, the Hadramaut region is generally much more stable and secure for travelers. You may still hear locals discussing the broader issues in Yemen, but life in Hadramaut remains relatively peaceful, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and stunning landscapes.

It’s worth noting that many foreign governments apply the same travel advisory to all parts of Yemen, often giving a negative recommendation for the entire country, even if conditions in specific regions like Hadramaut differ significantly. This general advice doesn’t always reflect the reality on the ground but is often issued because more detailed, region-specific advice isn’t provided.

It is safe everywhere. In the evening you can just walk across the street. If the situation changes, we will also respond immediately. We therefore demand a certain flexibility from our travellers. Some of the measures we take on our travels:
– Do not wear your most beautiful jewellery and watches, preferably leave it at home.
– We advise everyone to register with your local embassy. If you have problems on the spot, it is much easier to get in touch with the embassy on site.

Can I take pictures in Yemen (Hadramaut)?

In general, you can take photos freely. However, there are a few points to keep in mind.
– Do you want to photograph someone? Always ask first is permission for a photograph.
– Don’t just take pictures of women or praying people. Men shouldn’t take pictures of women at all.
– Do not take photos of military personnel, military installations, police officers and government buildings.

Food and drinks in Yemen (Hadramaut)

The availability of food in Yemen largely depends on what can be caught locally, with limited imports from mainland Yemen. Meals usually consist of fish, goat, vegetables, rice, spaghetti, flatbread, and occasionally chicken. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences that make these meals difficult, we highly recommend bringing your snacks—like nuts or canned food—to supplement your diet.
Tap water isn’t always safe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water during your stay (we recommend bringing a reusable water bottle with you). In addition, alcohol is prohibited in Yemen.

What should I wear on Yemen (Hadramaut)?

Yemen’s daytime heat is high, so pack loose, light-colored clothing that breathes and provides sun protection. A hat or scarf for your head, along with sunglasses, is a must to shield yourself from the intense rays.

At night, summer temperatures stay warm, but winter nights can get a bit chilly.

Health and hygiene

Yemen is a developing country with a very turbulent recent history. Healthcare is one of the worst in the world where everything has to be imported. The hygiene standard is much lower than in the Western world. Make sure you have enough disinfection gel, sunscreen and insect repellent.
We advise you always to the last (health) risk programs for the region where you’re going to visit. Check with your own government for the latest info about your destination.

Already know what you are looking for?