+ 2 h / + 1 h during our summer time

Sanaa (Sana'a)

Official language

Arabic

Language capabilities

English

220/230 volt / adapter required

Banks

8.00 am – 1.00/2.00 pm (Sat – Wed)
8.00 am – 11.30 am/12.00 noon (Thu)
Opening hours may vary. Banks are generally closed on Fridays, the weekly day of rest.

Shops

8.00/9.00 am – 1.00 pm and 4.00 – 9.00 pm (Sun – Thu)
Opening hours may vary. Some shops are closed on Friday mornings but open in the afternoon.

• Variable date: Eid al-Fitr
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 22 May: Yemeni Unity Day
• Variable date: Eid al-Adha
• Variable date: Islamic New Year (1 Muharram)
• 26 September: Revolution Day in North Yemen
• 14 October: Revolution Day in South Yemen
• 30 November: Independence Day

Islamic holidays follow the Islamic lunar calendar. Their dates therefore shift each year in the Gregorian calendar.

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland.

• A valid Swiss passport is required to enter this country.
• Passengers must hold a valid visa issued by Yemen. Passengers of Yemeni origin holding a Yemeni identity document or proof of Yemeni origin (a birth certificate or another document showing that their father is a Yemeni national) do not require a visa.
• Visitors without a return or onward ticket may be refused entry.

Information last updated in October 2026

Coastal region (e.g. Aden)

• Summer (June to September): Very hot and humid, with temperatures between 30°C and 40°C. High humidity, rare rainfall.
• Winter (December to February): Milder, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. Pleasant warmth, low rainfall.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures between 25°C and 35°C, with pleasant, warm weather and lower humidity.

Highland region (e.g. Sanaa)

• Summer (June to September): Mild summer, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Occasional rainfall, cool nights.
• Winter (December to February): Cool, with daytime temperatures between 12°C and 20°C, falling to 0°C at night. Frost is possible.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Moderate temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, with regional differences. There is a rainy period in spring and another in summer. Heavier rainfall is possible, particularly in the southwestern highlands.

Desert region (e.g. Rub al-Khali)

• Summer (June to September): Extremely hot, with temperatures between 35°C and 45°C. Dry and hot, with hardly any rain.
• Winter (December to February): Daytime highs between 15°C and 25°C, falling to 5°C at night. Dry and cool.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures between 25°C and 35°C, warm and dry, less extreme than in summer.

Mountain region (e.g. Jabal an-Nabi Shu'ayb)

• Summer (June to September): Mild, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Cool nights, frequent rain.
• Winter (December to February): Cool to cold, with daytime temperatures between 5°C and 15°C and below 0°C at night. Frost and occasional snow.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, dry and pleasant, with cool nights.

The ideal time to visit Yemen:

• Beach holidays: October – April. From a purely climatic perspective, coastal regions offer more pleasant temperatures during these months than in the very hot and humid summer.
• City breaks: October – April. These months offer milder temperatures, ideal for exploring cities such as Sanaa and Aden. Winter brings pleasant temperatures, while spring is particularly suitable for discovering cultural and historical sites.
• Winter holidays: December – February. The highland regions are best suited to winter holidays. Travellers can enjoy cool temperatures here, with frost even possible at night. This is an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and mountain landscapes.

• Mobile phone use: Using a mobile phone in Yemen incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming charges before travelling and, if necessary, purchase special roaming packages to reduce costs.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is often available in hotels, cafés and restaurants in larger cities such as Sanaa and Aden, but connections can be slow and unreliable. Wi-Fi is scarce in remote regions, and internet connections are rarely stable. VPNs may be necessary to access certain websites or services, as the internet is partly regulated.
• Prepaid SIM cards: It is possible to buy a prepaid SIM card locally for domestic calls and mobile data. There are several mobile network operators in Yemen, including Yemen Mobile and YOU (formerly MTN Yemen).
• Other information: Mobile network coverage is restricted in some regions due to conflicts. It is advisable to check the security situation in advance.

• Old City of Sanaa: Yemen's capital is known for its unique old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Traditional mud-brick houses with ornate windows and towers characterise the cityscape.
• Shibam, Hadramaut: Often referred to as the “Manhattan of the Desert”, Shibam impresses with its mud-brick high-rise buildings, reaching heights of up to 30 metres. This historic city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Socotra Archipelago: A remote island group in the Indian Ocean, known for its unique flora and fauna. Dragon's blood trees grow here that are found nowhere else in the world.
• Dar al-Hajar (Rock Palace), Wadi Dhahr: An impressive palace built on a huge rock. It was once the residence of the Imam of Yemen and offers a fascinating view across the valley.
• Al-Saleh Mosque, Sanaa: Yemen's largest mosque, known for its magnificent architecture and its importance as a religious and cultural centre. It was only completed in 2008.
• Kawkaban, northwest of Sanaa: An ancient mountain fortress and town on a high plateau above the town of Shibam Kawkaban. Historic buildings and views of the surrounding area characterise the site. Parts of the old town have been damaged by air strikes.
• Marib: This historic city was once the centre of the ancient Sabaean kingdom. The famous Marib Dam and the ruins of the Awwam Temple are particularly noteworthy.
• Hadramaut Valley: A fertile valley surrounded by desert landscapes, known for its impressive mud-brick buildings and historic villages. Shibam is the best-known city here.
• Zabid, west coast: One of the country's oldest cities and an important Islamic centre. Its architecture and cityscape bear witness to Yemeni history and culture.
• Al-Janad Mosque, Taizz: One of Yemen's oldest mosques, built in the 7th century. It is considered an important religious and historical landmark in the country.

Here is an overview of Yemen's gastronomic and culinary specialities:

• Saltah: Yemen's national dish, a hearty meat or vegetable stew with a spicy sauce called “Sahawiq” and a whipped foam made from soaked, ground fenugreek seeds (“Hulba”). Often eaten with bread.
• Mandi: A traditional dish of rice and lamb or chicken, cooked in an underground oven. It is particularly aromatic and one of Yemen's most popular festive dishes.
• Fahsa: A spicy meat or lamb stew served in a stoneware bowl. It is often eaten with fresh bread such as Malawah.
• Bint al-Sahn: A sweet pastry made from thin layers of dough, served with honey and butter. This dish is often served on special occasions.
• Yemeni coffee: Yemen is known for its coffee, particularly “Mocha coffee”, which comes from the port city of Mocha. The coffee is often heavily spiced and drunk without milk.
• Shafoot: A refreshing yoghurt salad prepared with Lahooh (flatbread) soaked in yoghurt and various herbs. A light dish that is particularly popular in summer.
• Lahoh: A traditional Yemeni flatbread that is soft and spongy. It accompanies almost every meal and is an important part of Yemeni cuisine.
• Sahawiq: A spicy sauce made from fresh chillies, coriander and garlic, served with many dishes. It gives food its characteristic heat and flavour.
• Honey from Hadramaut: Yemeni honey, particularly from the Hadramaut region, is considered among the best in the world. It is dark and thick, with an intense flavour.

• Greetings: Traditional greetings are often warm and accompanied by a handshake, although men only shake hands with women if the women offer their hands first. Typical phrases are “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) and the response “Wa alaykum as-salam” (And peace be upon you). A friendly “Marhaba” (Welcome) is also common.
• Please and thank you: In Yemen, “please” is “Min fadlik” when addressing a woman or “Min fadlak” when addressing a man. “Thank you” is “Shukran”, and “thank you very much” is “Shukran jazeelan”.
• Clothing: Travellers should dress respectfully. Women should cover their shoulders and knees and also wear a headscarf in rural areas. Men should avoid shorts and favour long trousers. Traditional clothing is highly appreciated, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
• Dining customs: Meals are often eaten sitting on a carpet on the floor, and traditionally people eat with their right hand. Sharing food is common. It is polite to try a little of everything and not refuse what is offered. “Bismillah” (In the name of God) is often said before eating.
• Smoking: Smoking is often prohibited in public places, and designated smoking areas are provided.
• Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated in restaurants, hotels and for services. Around 10% is considered appropriate. Taxi drivers and tour guides also appreciate a small tip.
• Other information: Photographing people, particularly women, should always be approached with care and only with prior permission. Public displays of affection, especially between unmarried couples, are inappropriate. During the fasting month of Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day.

• Drinking water quality: Drinking water quality in Yemen is generally very poor. Tap water is not safe to drink and should be strictly avoided. It is recommended to use only bottled or adequately boiled water, including for brushing your teeth. Ice cubes should also be avoided, as they are often made from unfiltered water.

• Vaccinations: Specific vaccinations are generally not mandatory for people entering Yemen. However, travellers are advised to keep their routine vaccinations up to date, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, poliomyelitis and measles.
• Malaria risk: According to HealthyTravel, there is a high risk of malaria throughout the country, including Sanaa and Socotra; stays exclusively in the desert are the exception, with a moderate risk indicated. Consistent protection against mosquito bites and antimalarial medication are recommended for high-risk areas. Consult a travel medicine specialist about appropriate preventive measures.
• Dengue fever: Dengue fever occurs in coastal regions and cities, particularly during the rainy season. A dengue vaccine is available but is not recommended for all travellers. Consult a travel medicine specialist about whether it is suitable for you. Consistent protection against mosquito bites, particularly during the day, remains the most important preventive measure.
• Cholera: Cholera outbreaks occur repeatedly in Yemen. Transmission is mainly through contaminated water and food. Pay particular attention to safe drinking water sources, food hygiene and regular handwashing.
• Schistosomiasis: Freshwater bodies carry a risk of schistosomiasis. Avoid swimming or wading in lakes, rivers and other freshwater bodies.
• Mosquito protection: To protect against malaria and dengue fever, travellers should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs during the day as well as in the evening and at night, as the mosquitoes that transmit these diseases are active at different times. It is recommended to use insect repellents containing DEET or icaridin and to sleep under mosquito nets. Mosquito coils or electric vapourisers may also be helpful indoors.

• Medical care is inadequate in large parts of the country, and emergency care with a functioning rescue chain is generally non-existent. Even in Sanaa, medical care does not meet European standards. Extremely severe limitations on medical care must therefore be expected both within and outside the capital, Sanaa. Comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical evacuation and repatriation is essential. Obtain confirmation in advance that your insurance expressly covers stays in Yemen. Serious illness or injury may require treatment abroad. However, medical evacuation is difficult to arrange and may not be possible.
• Travellers should also carry a well-stocked travel medical kit with their personal medication, as some medicines are unavailable locally or subject to shortages. Take enough personal medication for the entire stay and any potential delays. Protect it from high temperatures. For medication requiring refrigeration, the cold chain may be interrupted by frequent power cuts. To avoid infections, it is important to follow strict hygiene measures, drink boiled or bottled water and pay attention to food hygiene.

Information last updated in September 2025

• Before and during your trip, follow the media for information on the current situation and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Travel to Yemen and stays of any kind are advised against, including on the island of Socotra.
• Swiss nationals who remain in Yemen despite the FDFA's recommendations must be aware that Switzerland may, in some circumstances, have only limited or no means of assisting in emergencies.
• Military operations continue in the south and east of the country. The security situation throughout the country is highly unstable and marked by armed conflicts. There are significant security risks. The situation is developing rapidly and unpredictably.
• Clashes between rival armed groups occur in several parts of the country. Air strikes are regularly carried out against various targets. The cities of Sanaa and Aden are also repeatedly the scene of armed clashes and missile and drone attacks. Mines are also used inland and in coastal waters.
• Blockades of all land, air and sea links are imposed intermittently, repeatedly also affecting the island of Socotra. Power cuts can occur throughout the country.
• Demonstrations and gatherings of any kind may lead to unrest and violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
• There is a high risk of kidnapping throughout the country. This affects both the local population and foreign nationals. Staff of international organisations and humanitarian organisations are particularly at risk.
• There is a high risk of terrorist acts against local and foreign people and facilities throughout the country, including humanitarian organisations. Attacks regularly cause deaths and injuries.
• The risk of attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea remains high. Piracy is widespread in the Indian Ocean and in Yemeni waters, particularly in the Gulf of Aden.

Information last updated in October 2026

• Driving licence: Travellers wishing to drive a vehicle in Yemen need either an international driving permit together with their national Swiss driving licence or may, in some circumstances, have to apply for a temporary licence locally. It is advisable to check current requirements with the Yemeni authorities or the Swiss embassy in advance, as regulations may change.
• Car hire: Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old. Some hire companies require a minimum age of 25. Due to the security situation, roadblocks and potential conflict zones, it is recommended to employ local drivers or drivers familiar with the area instead of driving yourself. However, the availability of hire cars is limited by the situation, and many international car hire companies have withdrawn from Yemen.
• Traffic rules: Drive on the right.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.

• Long-distance trains: There is no regular rail service in Yemen.
• Regional trains: Not available.
• Buses: Buses are the most common form of transport for local journeys and between cities. There are both public and private bus companies. Buses are often overcrowded, and journeys may take longer than planned because of frequent stops.
• Underground/trams: There are no underground systems or trams in Yemen. Public transport is limited to buses and taxis, which most people use to get around cities.
• Tickets: Bus tickets can generally be purchased directly from the driver or at designated sales points.
• Other information: Due to the security situation and inadequate infrastructure, it may be advisable to consider alternative transport such as taxis or private transport services. Taxi fares are negotiable, and agreeing on the fare in advance is recommended.

International air traffic in Yemen is severely restricted. The country's international airports include:

• Aden International Airport (ADE), Aden
• Sanaa International Airport (SAH), Sanaa

Airport operations and available flight connections can change at short notice. Airports may close and flights may be suspended or cancelled. Before booking and again shortly before departure, obtain direct confirmation from the operating airline that all legs of your journey will be operated.

Information on flight connections is available from, among others, the Yemeni airline Yemenia.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Emergency numbers in Yemen do not always function reliably in many areas because the country is affected by conflicts and parts of the infrastructure have been severely damaged. However, general emergency numbers are available:

• Police: 199 or 194
• Ambulance: 191
• Fire brigade: 191

There is no Swiss representation on the ground in Yemen. The Swiss embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is responsible for consular matters.

Embassy of Switzerland in Saudi Arabia
Diplomatic quarter
Riyadh 11693
Saudi Arabia

Tel.: +966 11 488 12 91
Email: riyadh@eda.admin.ch

The FDFA Helpline provides an additional point of contact:

FDFA Helpline – available around the clock
Tel.: +41 800 247 365 or +41 58 465 33 33
Email: helpline@eda.admin.ch

Travel to this country is advised against due to internal conflicts.

Information last updated in October 2026