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TRAVEL REPORT
Yemen

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 2 has been updated (military operations).

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Yemen

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Yemen. Canadians should be strongly confident in their security arrangements and assess the risks of travelling before undertaking any trip, due to terrorism, tribal violence and clashes between government forces and rebel groups. The level of risk to foreigners is very high. Canadians in Yemen should regularly review their circumstances to determine if their continued presence is warranted. If Canadians feel their personal safety is threatened, they should consider leaving the country.

The security situation remains fragile and unpredictable. There is a constant and high terrorist threat throughout the Arabian Peninsula and Jordan. From time to time, reports emerge that terrorists plan to attack specific locations in one of these countries. Targets could include government buildings, public areas, tourist sites and Western interests. Heightened security measures are currently in place and may be reinforced upon short notice. Canadians are strongly advised to maintain a high level of vigilance and personal security awareness at all times. Caution should be particularly exercised in areas known to be frequented by foreigners (commercial, public, touristic). Canadians should monitor local developments and follow the advice of local authorities. Canadians are also advised to register and keep in contact with the Consulate of Canada in Sana’a, or the Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as well as to carefully follow messages issued through the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service.

Since mid-August 2009, the Yemeni Armed Forces have been conducting military operations and air strikes against militants in the provinces of Saada and Amran. A state of emergency and a curfew are in effect. Violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators are taking place in various parts of southern Yemen, including the regional capital, Aden. Recently, five soldiers and and two tribesmen died in the provincial town of Radfan, Lahuj province. Terrorist attacks have occurred among others at tourist sites, bars, hotels, government buildings, oil installations, and Western embassies as well as against convoys on the road. They have affected foreigners in the recent past. Vehicles should not be left unattended. When doing so, both the exterior and interior should be carefully inspected upon return to detect any attached devices or suspect packages nearby. Mail and packages from unfamiliar sources should be treated with suspicion. If anything unusual is suspected, the sponsor or the employer should be immediately contacted or the Yemeni police.

Recent events include: On March 15, 2009, four South Korean tourists and their Yemeni guide were killed in an explosion in Shibam, a popular tourist site. On September 17, 2008, a terrorist attack occurred against the U.S. Embassy killing at least ten people. On April 10, 2008, one small explosive device detonated near the offices of Nexen, a Canadian oil company, in the Hadda district, in Sana’a. No casualties or damage were reported. Another small explosive device was also found, but disarmed by the authorities. One person was killed and several others were injured in a mortar attack near a girls’ primary school and the American Embassy in Sana’a on March 18, 2008. On January 18, 2008, two Belgian tourists were killed and four others seriously injured during an ambush in the eastern province of Hadramout.

There is a high risk of foreigners being kidnapped in Yemen. While most kidnappings are resolved peacefully, some hostages have been killed. The tribesmen who are usually behind kidnappings use the victims as bargaining chips when negotiating their release with the Yemeni government. Travellers should not use the Aden-Taiz-Sana'a highway due to a high risk of kidnapping.

Authorities require that individuals who wish to travel outside Sana’a seek permission from the Yemen Tourist Police. Authorities may close access to certain areas across the country without notice. Overland travel outside Sana’s should be undertaken within a convoy and with military escort.

Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in some parts of the country (mostly outside urban areas) due to security concerns. In addition, Canadian officials may not be able to provide assistance in areas where the Government of Yemen prohibits entry or requires advance permission for entry.

Tourism is strongly discouraged.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations have been occuring regularly and often turn into violent clashes between the security forces and the protestors, causing widespread arrests, injuries and deaths. Regional developments and socio-economic conditions are usually the main causes of concern. Canadians are advised to avoid all political gatherings, crowds and demonstrations and to stay away from areas where they will occur, as they might turn violent without warning.

Crime

Petty crime is rare, although weapons are easily available. However, carjacking is a serious concern in Yemen. To reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim, showing signs of affluence should be avoided and personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents should be secure at all times. Car doors should be locked and windows closed.

Credit card scams may occur.
 
Women’s Safety

Harassment could occur. It is advisable to travel in groups and in daylight. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

General Safety Information

Anti-personnel mines and unexploded munitions remain a danger in the southern and eastern areas of the country, particularly around Aden, and in the central highlands. They have mostly been marked and access clearly delimited.

Checkpoints may be set up without warning.

Power shortages often occur.

Dial 199 in case of emergencies.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Yemeni authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Yemen and its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Yemen. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your departure from the country. Whatever the purpose of their stay, Canadians should be in possession of a visa, which can be obtained on arrival at any border crossing or airport or from any Yemeni diplomatic mission. For detailed information on requirements related to each type of visa, Canadians should seek advice from Yemeni authorities. Those overstaying the duration of their visa should expect heavy penalties.

Yellow Fever

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required.

Local Sponsor

It is customary for a local sponsor to retain a student or an employee's passport, but this is not required under Yemeni law.

Regional Travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Yemen because their passports bore: (a) an Israeli visa; (b) an Israeli border stamp; or (c) an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate the traveller entered from Israel).

Canadians travelling in the Middle East are advised that their passports could come under increased scrutiny by immigration authorities, and the authenticity of their passports could be questioned due to incidents of possible misuse. Canadians experiencing problems are encouraged to contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Yemen - SANA'A, Consulate of Canada
Address: Yemen Computer Co. Ltd., Building 4, St. 11 near Haddah St., Sana'a, Yemen
Postal Address: P.O. Box 340, Sana'a, Yemen,
Tel.: 967 (1) 20-88-14
Fax: 967 (1) 209-523
E-Mail: yccnet@y.net.ye

The Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has consular responsibility for Yemen:

Saudi Arabia - RIYADH, Embassy of Canada
Address: Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 94321, Riyadh, 11693, Saudi Arabia
Tel.: 966 (1) 488-2288
Fax: 966 (1) 488-1997
E-Mail: ryadh@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.saudiarabia.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities approaching Western standards are present only in the cities of Sana'a and Aden, such as the Yemen German Hospital. There are no adequate emergency ambulance services. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Drinking tap water is not recommended, especially in rural areas. Travellers should drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most food sold in the streets.

Some prescription medicine may not be available. Canadians should carry their original prescription and the original container for prescription medications.

Dehydration is a serious risk due to very high temperatures during the summer months. Preventive action includes ensuring protection from the sun and drinking plenty of water.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The work week is from Saturday to Wednesday.

Religion

The country's customs, laws, and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Religious and social traditions should be respected in order to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Legal Process

Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and/or heavy fines.

Identification Documents

Identification documents should be carried at all times. Visitors are advised to leave their passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes.

Dress and Behaviour

Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Men and women should dress conservatively (e. g., women should wear a headscarf and also cover their arms and legs). In Yemen, it is preferable to wear a headscarf and to avoid making eye contact with men in public.

Illegal and/or Restricted Activities

Religious proselytizing is not permitted.

Common-law relationships, homosexual relations, adultery, and prostitution are illegal and are subject to severe punishment.

In public, physical contact (e. g. holding hands) should be avoided.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.

Importation of alcohol is restricted, and prohibited to Muslims. Public intoxication is a criminal offence, no matter where the alcohol was consumed. Canadians should be aware that the consumption of alcohol outside approved venues is illegal and could result in arrest and/or fines and imprisonment. There is a zero tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving.

Pork products, pornographic material and the exportation of antiquities are forbidden.

It is forbidden to photograph military and police personnel and installations and government buildings. Military sites are not always clearly marked. People should not be photographed without their permission.

Family

Children or spouses may be prevented to leave the country without prior authorization of the father and/or husband even if they are Canadians.

Child custody decisions are based on Islamic law. It is extremely difficult for a Canadian woman, even if she is a Muslim, to obtain custody of her children through Yemeni courts.

Dual nationality

Dual nationality is not recognized, which may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel with their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadians to foreign authorities at all times. Dual nationals should be aware that they may be subject to national obligations, such as military service and taxes. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Sea Travel

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

Road Travel

Driving habits and style differ markedly from those practiced in Canada. Driving after dark is not advisable. Poorly maintained vehicles and roads and roaming animals are among hazards.

In the event of an accident, the police should be called. If injuries and/or death occurred, then the driver may be jailed and/or fined. Canadians should know that a compensation has to be paid to the family of the injured/deceased.

Overland travel can be hazardous and should only be undertaken in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles with an experienced guide. A travel itinerary should be left with a third party. Travellers should be well prepared and equipped with gasoline, water, food, and a cellular phone.

Renting a car and driving yourself is not recommended.

Public transportation should be avoided.

Only officially marked taxis should be used. Fares should be pre-negotiated.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Air Travel

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the Yemeni rial (YER). The economy is primarily cash-based. Credit cards and traveller’s cheques could be accepted in major hotels. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not accepted. Automated banking machines (ABM) may only be available in major cities.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Yemen is located in a seismic and a volcanic zone.

The monsoon season extends from June to September, often resulting in flooding.

In summer, sandstorms and dust storms also occur.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Local law does not allow adoption of children by foreigners.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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