Orientation briefing in Yemen

The Kingdom of Yemen (colloquially known as North Yemen) became independent from the Ottoman Empire in 1918 and in 1962 became the Yemen Arab Republic. The British, who had set up a protectorate area around the southern port of Aden in the 19th century, withdrew in 1967 from what became the People's Republic of Southern Yemen (colloquially known as South Yemen). Three years later, the southern government adopted a Marxist orientation and changed the country's name to the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen. The exodus of hundreds of thousands of Yemenis from the south to the north contributed to two decades of hostility between the states, which were formally unified as the Republic of Yemen in 1990. A southern secessionist movement and brief civil war in 1994 was quickly subdued. In 2000, Saudi Arabia and Yemen agreed to delineate their border. Fighting in the northwest between the government and the Houthis, a Zaydi Shia Muslim minority, continued intermittently from 2004 to 2010, and then again from 2014 to the present. The southern secessionist movement was revitalized in 2007.

Public rallies in Sana'a against then President Ali Abdallah SALIH -- inspired by similar Arab Spring demonstrations in Tunisia and Egypt -- slowly gained momentum in 2011, fueled by complaints over high unemployment, poor economic conditions, and corruption. Some protests resulted in violence, and the demonstrations spread to other major cities. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) mediated the crisis with the GCC Initiative, an agreement in which the president would step down in exchange for immunity from prosecution. SALIH eventually agreed to step down and transfer some powers to Vice President Abd Rabuh Mansur HADI. After HADI's uncontested election victory in 2012, SALIH formally transferred all presidential powers. In accordance with the GCC Initiative, Yemen launched a National Dialogue Conference (NDC) in 2013 to discuss key constitutional, political, and social issues. HADI concluded the NDC in 2014 and planned to proceed with constitutional drafting, a constitutional referendum, and national elections.

The Houthis, perceiving their grievances were not addressed in the NDC, joined forces with SALIH and expanded their influence in northwestern Yemen, which culminated in a major offensive against military units and rival tribes and enabled their forces to overrun the capital, Sana'a, in 2014. In 2015, the Houthis surrounded key government facilities, prompting HADI and the cabinet to resign. HADI fled first to Aden -- where he rescinded his resignation -- and then to Oman before moving to Saudi Arabia and asking the GCC to intervene militarily in Yemen. Saudi Arabia assembled a coalition of Arab militaries and began airstrikes, and ground fighting continued through 2016. In 2016, the UN initiated peace talks that ended without agreement. Rising tensions between the Houthis and SALIH culminated in Houthi forces killing SALIH. In 2018, the Houthis and the Yemeni Government participated in UN-brokered peace talks, agreeing to a limited cease-fire and the establishment of a UN mission.

In 2019, Yemen’s parliament convened for the first time since the conflict broke out in 2014. Violence then erupted between HADI's government and the pro-secessionist Southern Transitional Council (STC) in southern Yemen. HADI's government and the STC signed a power-sharing agreement to end the fighting, and in 2020, the signatories formed a new cabinet. In 2020 and 2021, fighting continued as the Houthis gained territory and also conducted regular UAV and missile attacks against targets in Saudi Arabia. In 2022, the UN brokered a temporary truce between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition. HADI and his vice-president resigned and were replaced by an eight-person Presidential Leadership Council. Although the truce formally expired in 2022, the parties nonetheless refrained from large-scale conflict through the end of 2023. Saudi Arabia, after the truce expired, continued to negotiate with the Yemeni Government and Houthis on a roadmap agreement that would include a permanent ceasefire and a peace process under UN auspices.

The political and security situation in Yemen remains uncertain and volatile.  

Since April 2022 a de-facto ceasefire has remained in place between the Houthis and the Yemeni government. On 23 December 2023, the UN announced that the Houthis and internationally recognised government of Yemen had committed to a ceasefire. However, sporadic incidents continue to occur along frontlines and the security situation remains volatile. Due to ongoing hostilities in the Red Sea, there is a heightened state of alert across Yemen and widescale conflict may resume at short notice. In February, in response to US and UK airstrikes, the Houthi authorities designated the US and UK as ‘hostile states’.  

As a result, we strongly advise against all travel to Houthi controlled areas. The risk of attack to British nationals also extends to areas under Yemeni government control. 

Reports of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances raise concerns. The Houthis have arrested opponents, including politicians, journalists, academics and activists. British nationals have also been detained by Houthis in the past, including aid workers working for NGOs.  

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 

FCDO advises against all travel to Yemen 

FCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Yemen due to the unpredictable security conditions.

If you’re in Yemen, you should leave immediately.  

See Safety and security for more information. 

UK government support 

Support for British people is severely limited in Yemen. British Embassy services in Sana’a are suspended, and all diplomatic and consular staff have been withdrawn. 

The UK government cannot help British nationals leaving Yemen. There are no evacuation procedures in place. 

FCDO cannot offer advice on the safety of travelling to any potential departure point. The UK government’s ability to help with onward travel is severely limited and you’ll be expected to cover the cost of visas, accommodation, insurance and onward travel yourself. 

If you choose to remain in Yemen, you should minimise movement around the country and within cities and towns, monitor developments in the local security situation and follow other precautions in this travel advice. 

If you’re a British national in Yemen and need help from the UK government, you can call FCDO on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). 

Regional tensions

The context in the Middle East remains deeply unpredictable and the risk of sudden escalation is high. Since conflict began in early 2026, Iran has stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including, but not limited to, organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions. There have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran and others across the region against civilian and US military infrastructure.

Since July 2026, the Houthis have launched air strikes against Saudi territory and Saudi shipping vessels in the Red Sea. There is an ongoing risk of further military escalation, including in Yemen and the Red Sea, which could occur at short notice.

British nationals in, or planning to travel through, the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. You should:

• read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
• follow advice from the local authorities
• monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
• stay away from areas around security or military facilities
• keep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date
• if advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel against FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice 

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. 

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Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Yemen 

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Yemen.  

The threat is heightened where Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Islamic State-Yemen have tribal connections and in the governorates of Abyan, Marib, Hadramawt and Shabwah. 

Western and Houthi interests in Yemen remain a feature in AQAP propaganda, and AQAP views westerners and Houthi as legitimate targets for attacks. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as: 

• hotels and supermarkets 
• transport routes 
• oil and gas infrastructure 
• government buildings 
• gatherings 
• airports and transport hubs  

Attacks targeting or affecting British nationals of Yemeni origin cannot be ruled out. Attacks against Yemeni security forces and Houthis are on the rise throughout the country. 

Methods of attack have included:  

• attacks by militants 
• firearm assassinations 
• kidnappings  
• improvised explosive devices and car bombs left in buildings and roadways 
• suicide attacks 

Daesh-Yemen has conducted multiple terrorist attacks across the country, including Aden, Sana’a, Ibb, Hodeida and al-Bayda. So far this has been focussed on Houthi, security forces and the Yemeni government but western interests are highly likely to be regarded as targets. 

Terrorist kidnap 

There is a very high and constant threat of kidnap across Yemen.  

Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) propaganda has called for continued kidnapping of westerners. However, armed tribes and criminal groups have also carried out kidnaps in the past. There is a high risk that such groups would sell any hostages on to AQAP, who have murdered a number of hostages. 

Kidnaps have occurred at various times of day and in a wide variety of locations, including:  

• public places in the capital  
• cars while travelling 
• victims’ accommodation  

Kidnapping attempts often involve the use of force and have ended in the death of several victims.  

All British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, NGOs, humanitarian aid workers, journalists, business travellers, and long-term residents. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.  

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to terrorist hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

Political situation  

The political and security situation in Yemen remains uncertain and volatile.  

Since April 2022 a de-facto ceasefire has remained in place between the Houthis and the Yemeni government. On 23 December 2023, the UN announced that the Houthis and internationally recognised government of Yemen had committed to a ceasefire. However, sporadic incidents continue to occur along frontlines and the security situation remains volatile. Due to ongoing hostilities in the Red Sea, there is a heightened state of alert across Yemen and widescale conflict may resume at short notice. In February, in response to US and UK airstrikes, the Houthi authorities designated the US and UK as ‘hostile states’.  

As a result, we strongly advise against all travel to Houthi controlled areas. The risk of attack to British nationals also extends to areas under Yemeni government control. 

Reports of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances raise concerns. The Houthis have arrested opponents, including politicians, journalists, academics and activists. British nationals have also been detained by Houthis in the past, including aid workers working for NGOs.  

Crime 

Regularly reassess your security arrangements and carefully plan your movements if travelling within Yemen. Avoid keeping the same routine by changing routes you use and keeping a low profile at all times. Follow health and security advice given by Yemen authorities and security experts before any travel in the country. Always check routes in advance and do not advertise your plans on social media. Military weapons are readily available and may be used by criminals and terrorists or in security operations. The risk of crime, such as carjacking, robbery or extortion, is widespread throughout the country.  

Tribal disputes over land are common and may involve the use of weapons. The Houthis and other militias run extra-judicial detention centres and arbitrary detention is widespread. Following recent events in the Red Sea there is an especially high risk of British nationals being detained.  

Laws and cultural differences  

Yemen is an Islamic country with Islamic law. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. 

Ramadan  

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country and you should check this before you travel. During this time, do not:  

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  
• play loud music or dance  
• swear in public  

Get more advice when you arrive from your guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening 
• be patient and show tolerance 

Dress code  

Men and women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers down to the elbow and reaches below the knees. You should also:  

• avoid tight-fitting clothing   
• avoid clothes with profane slogans or images  
• not wear clothing with symbols or slogans that could be viewed as political as this could lead to arrest 

Alcohol laws

Do not drink alcohol in public.  

Using cameras in secure areas 

Taking pictures in or around military sites is likely to result in arrest and arbitrary detention. British consular services will not be able to offer support in this situation. 

Do not take pictures of people without their consent. 

LGBT+ travellers 

Consensual same-sex relations are illegal in Yemen, with penalties including fines, corporal punishment, imprisonment and the death penalty.    

In January and February 2024, criminal courts in northern Yemen reportedly sentenced 20 individuals to death for homosexuality.  A further 26 were sentenced to flogging and prison terms of between 6 months and 10 years on charges of ‘spreading immorality’ and ‘immoral acts’. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Antiquities 

You must get permission from the General Authority for Antiquities before exporting or removing antiques from Yemen. It’s illegal to remove or sell Yemeni antiques without permission.  

Transport risks 

Road travel  

If you are planning to drive in Yemen, see information on driving abroad.   

Driving conditions 

Driving standards are poor and mountain roads are dangerous. Avoid all road travel outside the main cities at night. Landmines from the current and previous conflicts are a risk on Yemen’s roads. Make sure to go with an experienced guide if you’re travelling off well-used tracks. 

Access routes in and out of major cities may be closed or blocked. Always check the road is open before starting your journey. 

There is a severe shortage of fuel in Yemen. 

Air travel 

Yemen’s airspace is currently controlled by Saudi-led coalition forces. Prior permission from the coalition must be obtained before flying.  

Sea travel

The conflict extends to Yemeni territorial waters off the Red Sea and the Bab-Al Mandab Strait. Houthi forces present an ongoing risk to all shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab-Al Mandab Strait due to the potential for misidentification and miscalculation by Houthi forces. 

Piracy 

Piracy in the Gulf of Aden continues to be a threat. For more information and advice, see piracy and armed robbery at sea. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.  

Tropical cyclones 

Tropical cyclones sometimes affect parts of the country. Monitor local and international weather updates.  

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 

• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Call 191 and ask for an ambulance.  

Due to the current conflict, emergency services may not be able to respond. It may be better to make your own way to hospital if you can. Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Yemen   
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

 See what health risks you’ll face in Yemen, including:  

• malaria and dengue 
• Middle East respiratory syndrome 
• schistosomiasis 

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Yemen. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

Healthcare in Yemen  

Medical facilities, particularly away from the main towns and cities, are poor. Make sure that you have adequate travel health insurance and access to funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. 

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.