Yemen

Don’t travel to Yemen because of the ongoing civil and international conflict. There’s extreme political instability.

Violent jihadist groups have a strong presence in some parts of Yemen.

Terrorists have staged repeated attacks against Yemeni Government interests and civilian targets. Western interests continue to be prime terrorist targets.

Government forces, Houthi and other groups continue to fight in most parts of the country.

Tribal fighting over land is common. Tribes may use weapons, including in major cities

Countries in the region continue to conduct airstrikes. Some also have a military presence in Yemen.

The drawn-out, ongoing conflict has led to a severe breakdown in government services. It’s also affected the supply of staple goods across the country.

Kidnapping

There’s a very high threat of kidnapping throughout Yemen.

Terrorists have kidnapped foreigners in recent years.

Kidnappings occur in:

• Sana’a and areas surrounding the city
• Ta’iz
• Aden

In December 2014, a US citizen and a South African citizen died during a rescue attempt.

Terrorist groups, tribal groups and criminal gangs all kidnap foreigners, including Australians. Tribal groups and gangs sell victims to terrorist groups.

Kidnappers often ask for large ransom payments to release their captives.

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to an area where there’s a threat of kidnapping:

• arrange personal security measures
• get professional security advice

More information:

Travel disruption

Terrorism and civil unrest have severely disrupted air travel and other means of leaving the country.

Most international flights have been suspended.

The conflict has damaged airport infrastructure.

You may not be able to get enough food, water or medical care.

If you’re in Yemen despite our advice, leave now.

If you can’t leave, take shelter in a safe place. Keep a low profile and explore all available options to leave.

Follow the advice from local authorities or trusted security experts before trying to leave by road.

Consular help

Our ability to provide consular help is extremely limited.

Australian officials have been instructed not to travel to Yemen for now because of security concerns.

Both the US and UK governments have recalled their diplomatic staff and suspended embassy operations.

If you enter the country or remain despite our advice:

• keep in contact with family and friends
• don’t travel alone or at night
• check routes before you travel
• don’t put your travel or other plans on social media
• work with only reliable, registered and authorised organisations and travel agencies
• don’t carry large amounts of cash

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government