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YEMEN – AVOID ALL TRAVEL
Avoid all travel to Yemen due to ongoing armed conflict, terrorist attacks, and kidnapping. If you’re in Yemen, you should leave the country if it’s safe to do so.
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Safety and security
Information for Canadians in the Middle East
Heightened tensions in the region could pose security risks.
This may result in travel disruptions, including flight cancellations and airspace closures.
You should:
monitor local and international media to stay informed of the rapidly evolving situation be vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times
Security situation
Despite truce agreements, the security situation in Yemen remains highly unstable and unpredictable due to the ongoing civil war that started in 2014. The state of emergency declared in March 2011 remains in effect.
Armed terrorist and criminal groups are still active in many parts of the country, particularly in the south.
The humanitarian situation remains extremely precarious in the country due to several years of armed clashes between rebels and a coalition led by neighboring countries that conducted airstrikes on territories held by rebels in western and northern Yemen. The conflict led to the displacement of millions of people and significant disruptions to the availability of essential services and goods such as:
foodwatermedical suppliespower distributionhealth caresanitation
There is severe damage to critical infrastructure, including hospitals.
The Government of Canada has urged Canadians to leave Yemen since May 2009 and continues to advise against all travel to Yemen. Commercial means to leave the country are extremely limited. If the armed conflict intensifies it could impact your ability to depart the country by commercial means.
Your safety continues to be at risk in Yemen due to war, terrorism, and kidnapping. The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular assistance and other support in Yemen is extremely limited.
Do not travel to Yemen. If you choose to travel to Yemen, or remain in the country, despite this advisory:
seek safe shelter and remain there until you can identify safe means to exitmaintain emergency provisions such as water and foodexercise extreme caution at all timesalways be aware of your surroundingskeep in mind that you are responsible for your own safety and that of your familyensure that your travel documents are up-to-datemonitor local and international media to stay informed of the situation
Regional conflicts
Since November 2023, rebels regularly conduct attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea with drones and missiles. In response, since January 2024, a US-led coalition has conducted air strikes on rebel-controlled positions in western and northern Yemen, including the cities of Hajjah, Taiz, Hodeidah and Sanaa.
The rebels have also conducted rockets, drones and missiles attacks on Israeli territory, leading to retaliatory airstrikes in Yemen.
Israeli airstrikes have caused casualties and targeted infrastructure, including:
the Sanaa International Airportportspower stationsoil terminals
During the civil war between rebels and government forces, armed rebels in Yemen have targeted neighbouring countries, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, in retaliation for their involvement in the war in Yemen. The April 2022 truce significantly reduced the violence in the country and in the region, but there is still no agreement to end the civil war. There is a continued risk of internal armed conflict and a heightened risk of attacks targeting western interests in Yemen and in the region.
Due to security risks, the Government of Canada cannot provide assistance to citizens trying to leave Yemen by land to Saudi Arabia.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorism. Terrorists have targeted Western interests and Yemeni government buildings. Terrorist groups also target checkpoints manned by the Houthi rebel group in Sanaa and elsewhere in the country, and target Houthis in general.
Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Other targets could include:
government buildings, including schoolsplaces of worshipairports and other transportation hubs and networkspublic areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas known to be frequented by foreigners.
Be particularly vigilant during:
religious holidayspublic celebrationsmajor political events, such as elections
Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.
Exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas known to be frequented by foreigners.
Kidnapping
There is a high risk of kidnapping, especially on the highway connecting the cities of Sanaa, Ta’izz and Aden. Foreigners have been targeted. Some hostages have been killed.
Be extremely vigilant at all timesAvoid travelling on the Sanaa– Ta’izz –Aden highwayUse varied and unpredictable travel routes and schedules
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Demonstrations take place frequently due to the ongoing conflict throughout the country.
Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking placeFollow the instructions of local authoritiesMonitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Landmines
Landmines and unexploded munitions remain a danger in the southern and eastern areas of the country, particularly around Aden, and in the central highlands. Most have been marked and access clearly delimited.
Exercise caution in these areasLook for posted landmine warningsStay on paved roadsAvoid walking or hiking in these areas
Crime
Violent crime
Car bombs and drones have been used in assassinations.
Exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times.
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Although credit cards are rarely accepted, scams may also occur.
Carjacking is a serious concern in Yemen.
Don’t show signs of affluenceAvoid travelling at nightLock car doors and ensure that windows are closed at all timesEnsure that personal belongings and passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone have been subject to different types of harassment, verbal abuse, or physical assaults.
If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office.
Avoid travelling alone, especially at nightRemain particularly vigilant in less populous areasBe careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
Advice for women travellers
Shortages
Fuel
There is a shortage of fuel in Yemen. You may have difficulty securing fuel. Fuel and diesel shortages could impact sectors and services such as:
transporttelecommunication, including internetwater and waste collectionshops, cafes and restaurantsPower
Power shortages often occur.
Not all businesses are equipped with a generator. As a result, shortages could affect essential services such as:
health care servicesfood productiongoods distributionFood
Certain parts of Yemen are experiencing famine. If food is available, it can be expensive because most of the country’s food is imported.
Plan to have adequate water, food and fuel supplies.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country.
Drivers may not respect traffic laws and may often drive on the wrong side of the road. Vehicles are poorly maintained. Roaming animals also pose hazards.
Roadblocks and checkpoints may be set up without warning. Local authorities may close access to certain areas without notice.
If you are involved in an accident resulting in death or injuries, you may be jailed or fined. Compensation has to be paid to the family of any victim.
If you chose to drive in Yemen:
undertake overland travel in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles and with an experienced guide onlyavoid driving after darkleave a travel itinerary with a third partybe well prepared and equipped with gasoline, water, food and a cell phoneavoid renting a car and driving it yourselfcall the police if involved in an accident
Public transportation
Public transportation is unsafe and unreliable.
Buses
Minibuses service – known as dabaabs – is available in most major cities. However, many bus drivers aren’t experienced and don’t respect traffic laws.
If you want to reach Aden or Seiyun airport, the International Organization for Migration may be able to help by providing ground transportation through a local bus company. You may purchase tickets through their local offices.
Once you arrive at Aden or Seiyun airport, you will need to produce copies of airline tickets at checkpoints.
Contact information – International Organization for Migration in Yemen
Taxis
Shared taxis are common in Yemen. Private taxis are also available in major cities and at airports.
Motorcycles are often used as taxis. Drivers may often drive on the wrong side of the road and don’t follow traffic laws. Accidents are common.
Use officially marked taxis onlyNegotiate fares in advance or insist that the driver use the meterAvoid taking shared taxisNever enter a cab if it already has one or more passengersAvoid using ridesharing appsFerries
Ferry services are connecting the various ports in the area, including to Djibouti. Vessels are frequently hijacked or attacked while crossing the Red sea, or in the coastal waters of the Gulf of Aden.
Avoid using ferries.
Piracy
There are pirate attacks and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live Piracy Report – International Maritime Bureau
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
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Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Yemeni authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
The Government of Canada can’t facilitate your entry into or exit from Yemen.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Yemen.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Official travel
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Yemeni authorities don’t issue visas at ports of entry. You must obtain your visa well in advance at the closest Yemeni diplomatic mission prior to travelling.
Long stay
If you intend to stay in Yemen for more than 14 days, you must register your passport with the Yemeni Immigration authorities. You can expect heavy penalties if you overstay the duration of your visa.
Local sponsors
Some local sponsors retain students or employees passports. However, this is not required under Yemeni law.
Entry bans
You could be denied entry into Yemen if your passport bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel.
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
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Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Malaria
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination.
Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
Polio
Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country.
Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.
Recommendations:
Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers’ diarrhea
Travellers’ diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers’ diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers’ diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Schistosomiasis
There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.
Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
season
year
region
elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Insect bite and pest prevention
Chikungunya
Dengue
In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication available in Canada to prevent dengue.
Learn more:
Dengue
Insect bite and pest prevention
Rift Valley fever
Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)
Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) have been reported in this destination. The risk to travellers is low; MERS is primarily spread through contact with camels or camel-based products (raw milk, meat, urine). It can also spread through close contact, such as when caring for an infected person.
Avoid contact with animals (especially camels), camel-based products, and wash your hands frequently.
Prevention of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)
MERS symptoms range from mild and flu-like to more severe pneumonia-like symptoms, and can result in death.
There is no vaccine or medication that protects against MERS.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medication
There is a significant shortage of prescription medication.
If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Yemen.
Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with youAlways keep your medication in the original containerPack them in your carry-on luggageCarry a copy of your prescriptions
Medical services and facilities
Health care is inadequate throughout the country. Medical facilities and hospitals are very limited, even in major cities. They lack of medical staff and supplies. You will likely need medical evacuation if you are seriously ill or injured.
There are no adequate emergency ambulance services. Cash payment in advance is often required.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Keep in Mind…
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
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Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and lengthy jail sentences.
Alcohol
The consumption of alcohol in public is illegal. Public intoxication is also a criminal offence, no matter where the alcohol was consumed.
Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises.
Drugs, alcohol and travel
2SLGBTQI+ persons
Yemeni law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.
2SLGBTQI+ persons could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
If you are convicted, you could face corporal punishment, imprisonment or the death penalty.
2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Yemen.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dress and behaviour
Yemeni customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to traditional and Islamic practices and beliefs. Women should carry a headscarf to cover their head at all times while travelling in Yemen.
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
dress conservativelybehave discreetlyrespect religious and social traditionsseek permission prior to photographing individuals
Religious proselytism
Religious proselytism is illegal.
Avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values. This includes preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material.
Ramadan
In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.
In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:
Marriage
Common law partnership is illegal in Yemen. Men and women are not permitted to share a home unless they are legally married or are related to one another.
Sexual relations outside of marriage are a criminal offence and may be subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.
Marriage outside Canada
Family law
Yemen family law is different from Canadian family law. Yemen isn’t a signatory to The Hague Convention. Decisions are based on Islamic law. It’s extremely difficult for woman, even if she is a Muslim, to obtain custody of her children through Yemeni courts. Canadian custody orders may not be recognized in Yemen.
Local authorities may prevent Canadian children or spouse from leaving the country without prior authorization of the Yemeni father, husband or male relative.
To avoid any difficulties in Yemen, consult a Canadian and a Yemeni lawyer before travelling. If you’re involved in legal proceedings such as divorce or custody dispute in Yemen, consult a Yemeni lawyer for advice and assistance regarding your own specific situation.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Yemen.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Yemen by an abducting parent:
act as quickly as you canconsult a lawyer in Canada and in Yemen to explore all the legal options for the return of your childreport the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
Others illegal activities
The following activities are illegal in Yemen and punishable by heavy fines or jail time:
photographing government buildings, military installations and holy sitestrafficking or eating porkexporting any Yemeni antiqueimporting pornographic materialengaging in prostitution
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Yemen.
If local authorities consider you a citizen of Yemen, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.
Dual citizens
Identification
Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.
Depending on the region and the local authority, each town may have an entrance checkpoint where you will have to show your travel documents if you travel by land. You must also obtain permission from the Yemen Tourist Police to travel outside Sanaa.
Carry identification documents at all timesKeep a photocopy of your passport and visa in a safe place, in case they are lost or confiscated
Driving
You must carry an International Driving Permit.
International Driving Permit
The country has a zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving.
Money
The currency is the Yemeni rial (YER).
The economy is primarily cash-based. Credit cards are accepted in some major hotels only. ATMs may only be available in major cities.
Plan accordinglyMake sure you have access to sufficient local currency while in the countryCheck with your hotel which payment methods will be accepted
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Natural disasters and climate
Climate change
Climate change is affecting Yemen. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.
Earthquakes
Yemen is located in a seismic and a volcanic zone.
Useful links
Severe weather
In summer, sandstorms and dust storms occur in some areas. Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal in some individuals.
If a dust storm is occurring:
stay indoorskeep windows closed
Rainy season
The monsoon season extends from April to September. Seasonal flooding can slow down overland travel and reduce the delivery of essential services.
Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
Drought and flooding
Yemen has been facing drought in recent years, leading to crop failure and severe food shortages.
During the rainy season, torrential rains and heavy flooding occur regularly, especially in mountainous areas. Flooding often results in landslides that can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services, such as:
transportationpower distributionwater and food supplytelecommunications networksemergency servicesmedical care
In the event of flooding:
avoid the affected areaexercise cautionstay informed of the latest regional weather forecastsfollow the instructions of emergency responders, including evacuation orders
Large-scale emergencies abroad
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