The U.S. Department of State has reissued a Level 4 travel advisory for Yemen, urging citizens not to travel to the country due to various security threats including terrorism, civil unrest, and health risks. The advisory highlights that the U.S. Embassy in Sana’a has been closed since February 2015, limiting the government's ability to provide consular services.
"Terrorists may attack with little or no warning," the advisory warns, citing groups such as Ansarallah (Houthis), Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), and Islamic State affiliates as potential threats. These groups target public sites and foreign nationals are at risk of kidnapping.
Yemen remains embroiled in a civil war despite a reduction in violence following an April 2022 truce. Infrastructure damage from ongoing conflict hampers access to basic services like electricity and clean water, complicating humanitarian efforts.
Health services are described as inadequate with outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and measles occurring, particularly in Houthi-controlled areas. "Medicine and medical supplies are hard to find," the advisory notes.
The notice also cautions against misinformation regarding the safety of Socotra Island, emphasizing that only the Republic of Yemen government can issue valid visas.
For those who choose to travel despite these warnings, the Department advises enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and assistance in emergencies. Travelers should prepare contingency plans for leaving Yemen without U.S. government aid and ensure their affairs are managed if they cannot return as planned.
Limited flights operate from Aden and Sana’a, but travelers should verify current information with airlines. The Federal Aviation Administration has issued notices concerning aviation risks near Yemen, while maritime advisories highlight dangers in Yemeni waters.
Mariners should be cautious when traveling through Yemeni ports due to insufficient anti-terrorism measures noted by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Department encourages consulting additional resources such as country-specific security reports and health information before considering travel to Yemen.