Yemen is home to fascinating heritage sites such as the Old City of Sana’a, Shibam, and Socotra Island, but the security situation remains volatile and complex. Before you travel, make sure to carefully implement the following ten key points—your safety always comes before your itinerary.

1. Put Safety Advisories First: International authorities have repeatedly issued safety warnings about Yemen due to its ongoing instability. They advise against travel there and recommend avoiding trips during the validity period of any safety advisory.
2. If You Must Go: Stay closely informed of the latest travel advisories. Avoid conflict zones and border areas, and plan your trip only with the assistance of reputable organizations that offer reliable services and security arrangements.
3. Carry Plenty of Cash: Banking services and ATMs in Yemen are extremely unreliable, and foreign bank cards are almost never accepted. You must bring enough cash in advance and store it in separate, secure locations.
4. Get Insurance with Evacuation Coverage: Choose a travel insurance policy that includes emergency medical treatment, rescue services, and evacuation. Keep your policy and emergency contact details readily accessible.
5. Respect Local Customs: Dress conservatively. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Use your right hand when passing items, and respect religious and tribal traditions.
6. Ask Before Taking Photos: Always get permission before photographing people, religious sites, or government buildings. Photography is prohibited in some areas, and taking pictures at checkpoints is not allowed.
7. Be Cautious with Food and Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water. Avoid raw or cold foods and street food. Carry basic medications with you.
8. Pack Medications and Power Supplies: Medical services and electricity supply are limited. Bring essential medications, drinking water, backup power sources, and offline maps.
9. Avoid Traveling at Night: Try to schedule long transfers during the day. Avoid remote or isolated routes. Keep your communication devices charged and let others know your travel plans.
10. Stay Flexible and Have a Backup Plan: Flight schedules, road conditions, and the security situation can change rapidly. Build flexibility into your itinerary. In case of emergencies, prioritize personal safety and promptly contact the nearest embassy or consulate.

Once again: international authorities have repeatedly issued safety advisories about Yemen due to the ongoing instability, and advise against travel there. Any plans to visit Yemen should be based primarily on travel advisories and professional security assessments—do not let the appeal of cultural heritage outweigh real risks. If you must go, stay in touch with the nearest embassy or consulate, register your personal information, prepare an emergency evacuation plan, and allow extra time and backup funds for possible transfers or evacuations.