Tourism in Yemen

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Asia / Western Asia/Middle East

Tourist attractions

Old City of Sana'a

Region: Sana'a City

Cultural Heritage

UNESCO World Heritage site featuring mud-brick high-rise residential complexes with intricate white plaster decorations.

Shibam Hadramawt

Region: Hadramawt Governorate

Cultural Heritage

16th-century high-rise mud-brick city. World's oldest 'skyscraper' city.

Old City of Zabid

Region: Hudaydah Governorate

Cultural Heritage

Medieval Islamic center of learning with labyrinthine alleys and earth-colored buildings.

Socotra Archipelago

Region: Socotra Governorate

Nature

Called the 'Galapagos of the Indian Ocean' for its many endemic plants including the Dragon's Blood Tree.

Old City of Aden and Crater District

Region: Aden Governorate

Historic City

Port town within a volcanic caldera, with remains of giant water storage tanks.

Villages of Haraz Mountains

Region: Sana'a Governorate

Mountain Scenery

Scenic route with stone settlements clinging to cliffs and terraced fields.

Najran Castle (Al-Qahira)

Region: Ibb Governorate

Historic Architecture

Stone ruins believed to be fortress remains from the ancient Sabaean Kingdom period.

Sheba Temple Ruins in Marib

Region: Marib Governorate

Archaeological Site

Ruins of the Sabaean Kingdom's hydraulic technology and temple dedicated to moon god Almaqah.

Jabal an-Nabi Shu'ayb

Region: Sana'a Governorate

Nature

Highest peak offering panoramic views of the Arabian Peninsula from its summit.

Balhaf Coast

Region: Hadramawt Governorate

Nature

Pristine beach with white sand and emerald-colored Indian Ocean.

Suggested itineraries

Ancient Cities and Mountain Villages Highlights

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Sana'a Old City, Haraz Mountains, Marib Temple

Central exploration based in Sana'a, visiting Haraz sky villages on day trips and touring ancient Sabaean ruins.

Socotra Island Nature Trek

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Dragon's Blood Tree Forest, Dihamri Marine Protected Area, Homhil Sand Dunes

Charter flight from the capital to Socotra for endemic species observation and snorkeling.

Coastal Cities and Spice Route

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Aden Tanks, Old City of Zabid, Hudaydah Fish Market

Short trip tracing the footsteps of spice trade through Red Sea coastal historic port towns and markets.

Travel tips

  • Always check the latest travel advisories and arrange local guides for overland travel.
  • Credit cards are virtually unusable even in major cities; prepare US dollar cash.
  • Always obtain permission before taking photographs of subjects.
  • The climate is dry but with strong sunlight; hats and high SPF sunscreen are essential.
  • In highlands, nighttime temperatures can drop to single digits; bring warm clothing.
  • During Ramadan, daytime restaurants are closed; carry light snacks.
  • Many areas lack adequate sanitation; bottled water and portable water purifiers are useful.
  • SIM cards for foreigners can be purchased at telecom company counters at Aden and Sana'a airports.
  • Female travelers are safer wearing black abaya and covering hair with a scarf.
  • Photography of military/checkpoints is strictly prohibited. Turn off smartphone location sharing.
  • Evening and nighttime khat-chewing gatherings increase; beware of traffic accidents.
  • Coastal areas have high malaria/dengue risk; mosquito repellent measures necessary.
  • Alcohol is extremely difficult to obtain. Bringing it in may result in confiscation by religious police.
  • Confirm airport export quantity limits for local souvenirs like gold, frankincense, and honey.
  • Flights may be suddenly cancelled due to the situation; many experts double-book return flights.

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