Health and Safety Tips for Travelers Visiting Yemen

Traveling to Yemen can be an eye-opening experience. But as with travel to any country, it’s important to be prepared. In this guide, we’ll break down some key health and safety tips to ensure your trip is smooth and worry-free. Yemen is not the easiest destination, but with the right precautions, you can stay safe and healthy throughout your journey.

Staying Healthy While Traveling in Yemen

When visiting Yemen, staying healthy is crucial. The country has limited healthcare services, especially in more remote areas. Taking care of your health from the moment you land will help you avoid unnecessary issues.

Food and Water Safety

One of the main health risks in Yemen is contaminated food and water. Stick to bottled water, and avoid drinking tap water entirely, even when brushing your teeth. Make sure the seal on your bottled water is intact before using it.

When it comes to food, eat only cooked meals. Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless you’re confident they’ve been washed with clean water. Street food can be delicious, but if you’re unsure about hygiene, it’s safer to skip it.

Recommended Vaccinations

Check with your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before traveling to Yemen to ensure you have all the necessary vaccines. The recommended vaccines for Yemen include:

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Rabies (if you plan to be outdoors or in rural areas)
Cholera (in some circumstances)
Tetanus
Malaria (depending on where you travel within the country)

Make sure your routine vaccines—like measles, mumps, and rubella—are up to date as well.

Preventing Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Mosquitoes can be an issue in Yemen, especially in more humid regions. Diseases like malaria and dengue are transmitted by mosquitoes, so prevention is key.

Wear long sleeves and long pants at night, and apply insect repellent containing DEET. Make sure you sleep under a mosquito net if you’re in areas where malaria is a concern.

If there’s a high chance of malaria where you’re traveling, consult your doctor about the appropriate anti-malarial tablets to take during your visit.

Sun Protection

Yemen is a hot country and it’s easy to get sunburned without proper protection. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply it regularly, especially if you’re active or sweating. A hat and sunglasses can also provide extra protection from the harsh sun.

Stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid heat exhaustion or dehydration, particularly if you’re visiting in the hotter months.

Prepare for the Dust

Dust can be prevalent in many parts of Yemen. If you’re prone to respiratory issues or have asthma, it’s a good idea to bring a dust mask or scarf to cover your face in case you find yourself in dusty conditions.

Emergency Contact Numbers

In case of emergency, it’s essential to know the right numbers. Keep these handy:

Local emergency number (fire, medical, police): 199
Ambulance service: 191 or 194 (can vary, so it’s a good idea to ask locals when you arrive)
U.S. Embassy in Sana’a: +967 1 755 200

If you’re traveling from another country, make a note of the contact details of your nearest embassy or consulate.

Staying Safe in Yemen

Safety is a big concern for visitors to Yemen. The U.S. and other countries currently advise against non-essential travel to Yemen due to ongoing conflict. However, if you choose to visit, it’s important to be cautious and well-informed.

Know the Situation Before You Go

Yemen is currently facing political unrest, so it’s very important to stay updated on the security situation before your trip. Check your government’s travel advisories regularly to identify any areas to avoid or the latest updates on the region.

Working with a Local Guide

Navigating Yemen on your own can be difficult. For safety, it’s wise to hire a trusted local guide or work with a reputable tour company. They will know the areas to avoid and can help ensure you’re taking safe routes.

Not only will local guides help with safety, but they can also translate and make navigating the local customs easier.

Security Checkpoints

Be prepared to encounter frequent security checkpoints while traveling through Yemen. You’ll need to have your passport and travel documents with you at all times. Be polite to the officers, answer their questions calmly, and allow sufficient time for delays at these checkpoints.

If you’re traveling in a group, make sure everyone is accounted for during these stops, as identification might be checked individually.

Safety in Urban Areas

Major cities in Yemen, like Sana’a, have varying levels of safety depending on the neighborhood. Some parts of cities may be more secure than others, so always ask locals or your guide for advice on where it’s safe to walk and where to avoid.

At night, it’s best not to wander the streets alone. Stay in well-lit areas, and get a trusted driver for any transportation needs.

Safety in Rural Areas

Rural Yemen can be stunning, but the further away you get from the cities, the less predictable the safety situation becomes. Always travel with a guide in these areas. In some parts of the country, it’s common for tribes to have their own local rules and practices. Following those with a local guide can prevent any misunderstandings.

Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive gadgets in rural areas. Be aware that kidnappings have occurred in rural regions, especially involving foreigners. Staying low-profile is important.

Transportation Tips

Transportation in Yemen may look different than what you’re used to. Roads may be poorly maintained, and traffic conditions can be chaotic in larger cities.

Using Taxis or Private Cars

If you need to get around, taxis and private cars are your best bet. However, only use vehicles from a trusted source. Have your guide arrange transportation, or ask locals for recommendations on safe taxi services.

Before getting in a taxi, confirm the fare in advance to avoid any disputes later. Always sit in the back seat, especially if you’re traveling alone.

Driving Yourself

Driving yourself in Yemen is not recommended. Roads are often poorly maintained, and driving standards may not meet what you’re used to. If you do decide to rent a car, make sure you study the local traffic laws and get detailed advice on routes from your guide or hotel staff before heading out.

Respecting Local Customs for Your Safety

Yemeni culture places a high emphasis on modesty and respect. As a visitor, understanding and following local customs can help you avoid unwanted attention or conflicts.

Clothing

In Yemen, both men and women should dress modestly. For women, covering your head with a scarf can help you blend in and prevent stares. Men should also avoid shorts or shirts that leave the shoulders exposed.

While not legally required, covering up is a sign of respect toward local customs and can help avoid any uncomfortable situations.

Personal Interaction

Yemenis are generally warm and welcoming people. But, it’s important to avoid public displays of affection, which can be frowned upon. If you’re a woman traveling solo, keeping interactions polite and modest can help you navigate social expectations more smoothly.

For men, it’s generally not advisable to initiate a handshake with a woman unless she offers her hand first.

What to Do If You Feel Unsafe

Should you feel threatened or unsafe at any point, try to stay calm. If you are with a guide, let them know immediately. If you find yourself without a guide, try to enter a more public or well-lit space, like a hotel or shop, and ask for assistance.

If it’s a serious emergency, contact the local police or your embassy. It’s a good idea to carry a charged mobile phone at all times with local emergency numbers saved.

Final Thoughts on Health and Safety in Yemen

Yemen is a beautiful country but traveling there comes with risks. By taking the right health precautions, staying informed, and working with locals, you can have a safer and healthier trip. Keep your vaccinations updated, avoid risky areas, and always be alert. A little preparation can go a long way to making sure your visit is a rewarding experience.