Currency
The Yemeni rial (YER) is the official currency, but the conflict has created a split monetary system. The Central Bank in Aden (government-controlled) and the Central Bank in Sana'a (Houthi-controlled) have both issued currency, and the two are not accepted interchangeably across the country. In practice, US dollars and Saudi riyals circulate widely, particularly for larger transactions.
Visas
Before the war, most nationalities required a visa, obtained in advance from a Yemeni embassy or on arrival at Sana'a airport. Visa arrangements are currently inoperative in any normal sense. Entry requires coordination with whichever authority controls your point of entry.
Language
Arabic is the official language. English is spoken by some educated Yemenis in the cities and by those who have worked abroad, but it is not widely understood outside that context. In the Hadramawt, Socotri (a distinct South Semitic language) is spoken on Socotra alongside Arabic.
Religion
Yemen is predominantly Muslim. The north is largely Zaydi Shia; the south and east are predominantly Sunni Shafi'i. There are historically small Jewish and Christian communities. Dress conservatively, particularly outside the larger cities. Women should cover their hair and wear loose, full-length clothing.
Health
Yemen has a serious ongoing cholera outbreak, exacerbated by the destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure. Malaria is present in the coastal lowlands and some inland areas. Medical facilities have been severely damaged by the conflict; the healthcare system has largely collapsed in many areas. Bring comprehensive first aid supplies and have evacuation insurance if travelling for professional reasons.
Communications
Mobile coverage existed across most of the country before the war, with MTN and Yemen Mobile as major providers. Internet was available in cities. Service has been severely disrupted, with Houthi authorities imposing communications blackouts in some areas.
Electricity
220V, 50Hz. Sockets are the British three-pin type in the south (legacy of the British colonial period in Aden) and European two-pin in the north. Power supply was unreliable before the war and has largely collapsed in many areas now.
Time
Yemen Standard Time: UTC+3. No daylight saving time.