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Yemen
Country Specific Information
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July 21, 2008
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: 
The Republic of Yemen was established in 1990 following unification of the former Yemen Arab Republic (North) and the People's
Democratic Republic of Yemen (South). Islamic and traditional ideals, beliefs, and practices provide the foundation of the
country's customs and laws. Yemen is a developing country and modern tourist facilities are widely available only in major
cities. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Yemen for additional information.
ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Passports and visas are required for travel to Yemen. Visas may be obtained at Yemeni Embassies abroad; all travelers to
Yemen can also potentially obtain entry visas at ports of entry. Travelers to Yemen are no longer required to have an affiliation
with and arrange their travel through a Yemeni-based individual or organization to enter Yemen. However, individuals may be
asked for supporting evidence of their character, purpose of visit and length of stay. Upon arrival at ports of entry, travelers
may be issued a visa valid for a maximum of three months.
Yemeni law requires that all foreigners traveling in Yemen obtain exit visas before leaving the country. In cases of travelers
with valid tourist visas and without any special circumstances (like those listed below), this exit visa is obtained automatically
at the port of exit as long as the traveler has not overstayed the terms of the visa.
In certain situations, however, foreigners are required to obtain exit visas from the Immigration and Passport Authority headquarters
in Sanaa. These cases may include, but are not limited to, foreigners who have overstayed the validity date of their visa;
U.S.-citizen children with Yemeni or Yemeni-American parents who are not exiting Yemen with them; foreigners who have lost
the passport containing their entry visa; foreign residents whose residence visas are based on their employment or study in
Yemen, marriage to a Yemeni citizen, or relationship to a Yemeni parent; or foreign residents who have pending legal action
(including court-based "holds" on family members' travel). The loss of a passport can result in considerable delay to a traveler
because Yemeni law requires that the traveler attempt to recover the passport by placing an advertisement in a newspaper and
waiting a week for a response. All minor/underage U.S. citizens should be accompanied by their legal guardian(s) and/or provide
a notarized letter in Arabic of parental consent when obtaining exit visas to depart Yemen. In all of these more complex cases,
obtaining an exit visa requires the permission of the employing company, the sponsoring Yemeni family member, the sponsoring
school or the court in which the legal action is pending. Without this permission, foreigners -- including U.S. Citizens --
may not be allowed to leave Yemen.
American women who also hold Yemeni nationality and/or are married to Yemeni or Yemeni-American men often must obtain permission
from their husbands for exit visas. They also may not take their children out of Yemen without the permission of the father,
regardless of who has custody (see Special Circumstances section below).
For more details, travelers can contact the Embassy of the Republic of Yemen, Suite 705, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington,
DC 20037, telephone 202-965-4760; or the Yemeni (Mission to the U.N., 866 United Nations Plaza, Room 435, New York, NY 10017,
telephone (212) 355-1730. Visit the Yemeni Embassy home page for more visa information at http://www.yemenembassy.org/.
Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our web site. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information sheet.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: The Department of State is concerned that al-Qa‘ida and its affiliates are actively engaged in extremist-related activities
in Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula. The Department remains concerned about possible attacks by extremist individuals or groups
against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses and perceived interests.
On March 18, 2008, three mortar rounds landed in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy in Sanaa. Yemeni students at a nearby school
and Yemeni government security personnel posted outside the embassy were injured in the attack. On April 6, 2008, an expatriate
residential compound in the Hadda neighborhood of southwestern Sanaa was attacked by mortar fire, and on April 30, 2008, suspected
extremists fired two mortar rounds that exploded near the Yemen Customs Authority and the Italian Embassy. No injuries were
reported in either incident. A group calling itself al-Qa'ida in Yemen may be responsible for all three attacks. Following
the attacks against the Embassy and the residential compound, the Department of State ordered the departure of all American
non-emergency embassy staff and family members on April 7, 2008.
On January 18, 2008, suspected al-Qa’ida operatives ambushed a tourist convoy in the eastern Hadramout Governorate, killing
two Belgians. On July 2, 2007, suspected al-Qa’ida operatives carried out a vehicle-borne explosive device attack on tourists
at the Belquis Temple in Marib, which resulted in the deaths of eight Spanish tourists and two Yemenis. The targeting of tourist
sites by al-Qa’ida may represent an escalation in terror tactics in Yemen. On February 3, 2006, 23 convicts, including known
affiliates of al-Qa’ida, escaped from a high-security prison in the capital city, Sanaa. Among the al-Qa’ida associates were
individuals imprisoned for their roles in the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole and the 2002 attack on the French oil tanker Limburg.
In the weeks following the escape, some prisoners voluntarily turned themselves in to authorities; to date, however, some
escapees remain at large. Two of the escapees were killed in vehicle-based suicide attacks on oil facilities near Mukalla
and Marib on September 15, 2006. Those attacks were followed by the arrest the next day in Sanaa of four suspected al-Qa’ida
operatives, who had stockpiled explosives and weapons. On December 5, 2006, a lone gunman opened small arms fire outside of
the Embassy compound during the early morning hours. The assailant, wounded by host-nation security personnel and subsequently
arrested, was the sole casualty. It appears that, although the gunman was influenced by extremist ideology, he worked alone
in planning and executing the attack.
Americans should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place. A 2005 demonstration against an increase in the fuel price
led to two days of widespread demonstrations and rioting throughout Sanaa and other cities. Those demonstrations resulted
in a large amount of property damage, looting, and several roadblocks.
In late 2007 and throughout 2008, there has been an increase in anti-government demonstrations in southern Yemen, including
the cities of Aden, Taizz, Ibb, and Mukalla, as well as surrounding regions. Some of these demonstrations have resulted in
injuries and deaths. Americans should be aware of the potential for further demonstrations when traveling in these areas.
Throughout the country, U.S. citizens are urged to exercise particular caution at locations where large groups of expatriates
have gathered. From time to time, the U.S. Embassy in Sanaa may temporarily close or suspend public services as necessary
to review its security posture and ensure its adequacy.
In addition, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence
of such objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended and should be kept locked at all times. Americans
in Yemen are urged to register and remain in contact with the American Embassy in Sanaa for updated security information (see
section on Registration/Embassy location below).
Yemeni government security organizations have arrested and expelled foreign Muslims, including Americans, who have associated
with local Muslim organizations considered to be extremist by security organs of the Yemeni government. Americans risk arrest
if they engage in either political or other activities that violate the terms of their admission to Yemen.
Travel on roads between cities throughout Yemen can be dangerous. Armed carjacking, especially of four-wheel-drive vehicles,
occurs in many parts of the country, including the capital. Yemeni security officials advise against casual travel to rural
areas. The U.S. Embassy sometimes restricts the travel of its own personnel to rural areas, while the Government of Yemen
also sometimes places restrictions on Americans traveling outside Sanaa. Please check with the Embassy for the latest restrictions.
Travel is particularly dangerous in the tribal areas north and east of Sanaa. Armed tribesmen in those areas have kidnapped
a number of foreigners in attempts to resolve disputes with the Yemeni government. Hostilities between tribesmen and government
security forces in the Sadah governorate north of Sanaa have flared up on several occasions since 2005. Serious fighting occurred
in the city of Benni Hashish from late May through early June 2008. Americans are urged to avoid this region during periods
of conflict.
Travel by boat through the Red Sea or near the Socotra Islands in the Gulf of Aden presents the risk of pirate attacks. If
travel to any of these areas is necessary, travelers may reduce the risk to personal security if such travel is undertaken
by air or with an armed escort provided by a local tour company.
Other potential hazards to travelers include land mines and unexploded ordnance from the 1994 civil war. This is of particular
concern in areas where fighting took place in the six southern provinces. However, most minefields have been identified and
cordoned off.
Americans are most vulnerable to terrorist attacks when they are in transit to and from their residences or workplaces, or
visiting locations where large groups of expatriates have gathered. All Americans are reminded to vary their routes and times,
remain vigilant, report suspicious incidents to the Embassy, avoid areas where large groups of expatriates have gathered,
lock car windows and doors, and carry a cell phone.
Based on previous abductions of foreigners in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait, the Embassy recommends that Americans with doubts
about the identity of security or police personnel on the roads remain in their vehicles, roll up their windows, and contact
the Embassy. For additional information on travel by road in Yemen, see the Traffic Safety and Road Conditions section below.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of
Consular Affairs’ web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, including the Travel Warning for Yemen, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada,
or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m.
to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For
general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the
Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.
CRIME: The most serious crime problem affecting travelers to Yemen is carjacking. Travelers have rarely been victims of petty street
crime.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy
or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the
nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate
medical care, contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and
prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the
local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
The local equivalent to the "911" emergency line in Yemen is 199, but operators do not speak English.
See our information on Victims of Crime.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Lack of modern medical facilities outside of Sanaa and Aden and a shortage of emergency ambulance services throughout the
country may cause concern to some visitors. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. An
adequate supply of prescription medications for the duration of the trip is important. While many prescription drugs are available
in Yemen, a particular drug needed by a visitor may not be available.
The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa strongly advises all American citizens residing in or traveling to Yemen to ensure that they have
received all recommended immunizations (see below).
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection,
may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP
(1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s web site at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) web site at
http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith/en/.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Yemen.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad
to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. Please
see our information on medical insurance overseas.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United
States. The information below concerning Yemen is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in
a particular location or circumstance.
Based on previous abductions of foreigners in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait, the Embassy recommends that Americans with doubts
about the identity of security or police personnel on the roads remain in their vehicles, roll up their windows, and contact
the Embassy. For additional information addressing security concerns for Americans in Yemen, please see the Safety and Security
section above.
Travel by road in Yemen should be considered risky. Within cities, minivans and small buses ply somewhat regular routes, picking
up and dropping off passengers with little notice or regard for other vehicles. Taxis and public transportation are widely
available but the vehicles may lack safety standards and equipment. Embassy personnel are advised to avoid public buses for
safety reasons. Despite the presence of traffic lights and traffic policemen, drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution,
especially at intersections. While traffic laws exist, they are often not enforced, and/or not adhered to by motorists. Drivers
sometimes drive on the left side of the road, although right-hand driving is specified by Yemeni law. No laws mandate the
use of seat belts or car seats for children. The maximum speed for private cars is 100 kilometers per hour (62.5 miles per
hour), but speed limits are rarely enforced. A large number of under-age drivers are on the roads. Many vehicles are in poor
repair and lack basic parts such as functional turn signals, headlights and taillights. Pedestrians, especially children,
and animals on the roads constitute a hazard in both rural and urban areas. Beyond the main inter-city roads, which are usually
paved and in fair condition, the rural roads in general require four-wheel-drive vehicles or vehicles with high clearance.
Yemeni security officials advise against casual travel to rural areas. The U.S. Embassy sometimes restricts the travel of
its own personnel to rural areas, while the Government of Yemen also sometimes places restrictions on Americans traveling
outside Sanaa. Please check with the Embassy for the latest restrictions.
Travelers should take precautions to avoid minefields left over from Yemen's civil wars. Traveling off well-used tracks without
an experienced guide could be extremely hazardous, particularly in parts of the south and the central highlands.
Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and reckless driving which causes an accident resulting in
injury, are a fine and/or prison sentence. If the accident results in death, the driver is subject to a maximum of three years
in prison and/or a fine. Under traditional practice, victims' families negotiate a monetary compensation from the driver proportionate
to the extent of the injuries -- higher if it is a fatality.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information and visit the web site of Yemen’s national tourism office at http//yementourism.com.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Yemen, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) has not assessed Yemen’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s web site at http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/oversight/iasa.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Photography of military installations, including airports, equipment, or troops is forbidden. In the past, such photography
has led to the arrest of U.S. citizens. Military sites are not always obvious. If in doubt, it is wise to ask specific permission
from Yemeni authorities.
Travelers should be aware that automated teller machines (ATMs) are being introduced in major cities but are still not widely
available in Yemen. Credit cards are not widely accepted. The Government of Yemen may not recognize the U.S. citizenship of
persons who are citizens of both Yemen and the United States. This may hinder the ability of U.S. consular officials to assist
persons who do not enter Yemen on a U.S. passport. Dual nationals may also be subject to national obligations, such as taxes
or military service. For further information, travelers can contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Yemen.
American citizens who travel to Yemen are subject to the jurisdiction of Yemeni courts, as well as to the country's laws,
customs, and regulations. This holds true for all legal matters including child custody. Women in custody disputes in Yemen
may not enjoy the same rights that they do in the U.S., as Yemeni law often does not work in favor of the mother. Parents
planning to travel to Yemen with their children should bear this in mind. Parents should also note that American custody orders
might not be enforced in Yemen.
American women who also hold Yemeni nationality, and/or are married to Yemeni or Yemeni-American men, are advised that if
they bring their children to Yemen they may not enjoy freedom of travel should they decide they want to leave Yemen. Such
women often must obtain permission from their husbands for exit visas. They also may not take their children out of Yemen
without the permission of the father, regardless of who has custody (See Entry/Exit Requirements section above).
American students and workers in Yemen sometimes report that the sponsors of their residence permits seize their U.S. passports
as a means of controlling their domestic and international travel. While the sponsors say they seize the passports on behalf
of local security services, there is no law or instruction from Yemeni passport or security offices requiring that passports
be seized.
Please see our Customs Information.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly
from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for
breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Yemeni laws, even unknowingly,
may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession or use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Yemen are severe,
and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. The use of the mild stimulant "qat” or “khat" is legal
and common in Yemen, but it is considered an illegal substance in many other countries, including the United States. Engaging
in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable
in the United States. Please see our information on Criminal Penalties.
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: Americans living or traveling in Yemen are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Yemen. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at Dhahr Himyar Zone, Sheraton Hotel District, PO Box 22347. The telephone number of the Consular Section is (967)(1) 755-2000, extension 2153 or 2266. The fax number is (967) (1) 303-175. The after-hours emergency number is (967) (1) 755-2000 (press 0 for extension) or (967) 733213509. The Embassy is open from Saturday through Wednesday.
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This replaces the Country Specific Information for Yemen dated December 27, 2007, to update the sections on Entry/Exit Requirements,
Safety and Security, Information for Victims of Crime, Criminal Penalties and Medical Facilities and Health Information.
