Things To Do
in Yemen
Yemen sits at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, where the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden meet a landscape of rugged mountains, grand walled cities, and remote coastlines. Its heritage spans ancient fortresses, caravan routes, and a centuries-old coffee culture that continues to shape daily life in markets, mosques, and homes. The country is renowned for the architectural jewel of Sana’a, the desert grandeur of Hadramaut, and the otherworldly beauty of Socotra Island.
Travel in Yemen requires careful planning and awareness of security conditions, so always check official advisories and travel guidance before planning to visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the capital city of Sana'a, where you can wander through the narrow streets of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the unique architecture of the tower houses and the intricately designed gates. Visit the iconic Great Mosque of Sana'a, one of the oldest mosques in the country.
Enjoy a traditional Yemeni lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like Mandi and Zurbian. Afterward, explore the bustling Souq Al-Milh, a market famous for its spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Engage with local artisans and perhaps purchase some unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a rooftop cafe where you can sip on traditional Yemeni coffee while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Experience the local nightlife by mingling with residents or indulging in a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets. End your day with a taste of sweet Sana'ani pastries.
Travel to Al Hudaydah, a coastal city located along the Red Sea, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing culture. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you take a walk along the shoreline. Visit the bustling local fish market, where you can see the day's fresh catch being sold.
After a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, head out for a boat trip to explore the stunning coral reefs in the area. Snorkel or dive to witness the diverse marine life thriving in the clear waters. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying the stunning seaside scenery.
As evening approaches, savor a seafood feast at one of the coastal eateries, where you can indulge in fresh catch prepared with local spices. Watch the sunset over the Red Sea, painting the sky in beautiful hues. End the day by taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the calming sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥗Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $20-60 |
| 🚕Local taxi short ride | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and UNESCO sites such as Sana’a Old City
- Stunning highland scenery and desert landscapes
- Unique biodiversity on Socotra and historical Hadramaut towns
- Safety and security concerns in many areas
- Limited infrastructure outside major cities
- Travel restrictions and required local coordination and guides
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "بكم هذا؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "نعم/لا" - Yes/No
- "أريد هذا" - I would like this
- "ماء" - Water
- "شاي" - Tea
- "قهوة" - Coffee
Places to Visit in Yemen
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed maze of whitewashed houses with intricate wooden latticework and tall tower homes that glow at dusk.
The “Manhattan of the Desert,” famed for its dramatic skyline of towering mud-brick structures set against a stark horizon.
A surreal landscape of dragon’s-blood trees, white-sand beaches, and dramatic coastal scenery—ideal for dramatic nature photography.
Rugged cliffs and sea horizons along the Red Sea, with traditional dhows and colorful sunsets.
Food in Yemen
Yemen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice and meat dish slow-cooked in an underground oven, typically enjoyed with a side of broth and crisp salad.
Must-Try!
A hearty meat or vegetable stew with fenugreek froth, traditionally served with bread to scoop up the sauce.
A thick, savory meat stew usually prepared with tender lamb and served with flatbread for dipping.
A thick, porridge-like dough often paired with meat or vegetable stews, enjoyed as a filling staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic markets where you can sample grilled meats, fresh bread, spices, and sweet tea from local vendors.
A bustling market area by the sea with seafood stalls, street snacks, and traditional snacks to try on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest clothing is expected in public; shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly in rural areas.
A polite Arabic greeting is appreciated; a handshake is common in urban settings, with respectful titles.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities or sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Yemen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service; small amounts to guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is the most reliable method across most of Yemen; some hotels may accept USD. ATMs are scarce outside major cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Coastal areas are hot and humid; higher elevations offer cooler relief. Expect occasional monsoon moisture affecting Socotra and western Yemen.
Mild to cool in the highlands; coastal towns stay warm. Spring and autumn bring milder days suitable for outdoor sightseeing, with cooler evenings.
Yemen at Night
Hiking in Yemen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Yemen, offering high-altitude trekking with panoramic views; requires a local guide and proper acclimatization.
Terraced landscapes and canyon paths ideal for day hikes near the capital region.
Airports
How to reach Yemen by plane.
Major international gateway to Yemen located near Aden; flight connections to a limited number of regional destinations; check current status before planning travel.
Located near the capital; historically a key international hub but currently with restricted and variable international flight operations; verify current status in advance.
Small domestic/limited international flights to the island; access usually via regional routes from nearby hubs; subject to seasonal schedules.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Growing communities in Sana’a, Aden, and coastal cities shaped by commerce and education.
Predominantly rural residents with strong family and tribal ties, often maintaining traditional social structures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, followed passionately in cities and towns, with local leagues and informal street games.
Traditional cultural sport in certain regions, often tied to local festivals and events.
A historic practice among Bedouin communities, reflecting a strong bond with hunting birds.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many lentil- and vegetable-based dishes; request meals without meat and confirm stock and broth are meat-free.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yemen.