A state of emergency declaration and subsequent flight suspensions have left hundreds of international tourists stranded on Yemen’s remote Socotra Island, as regional conflicts escalate. The exact number of affected travelers remains disputed, with estimates ranging from 416 to 700 individuals representing various nationalities including Russian, French, American, British, Polish, and Lithuanian citizens.
Situated approximately 300 kilometers south of Yemen’s mainland in the Indian Ocean, Socotra has historically remained insulated from the country’s decade-long civil war. The island’s UNESCO World Heritage status, unique biodiversity, and pristine beaches have made it an increasingly popular destination for adventure tourism despite Yemen’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The current logistical crisis stems from recent geopolitical developments, including the United Arab Emirates’ withdrawal of its military presence and counter-terrorism units from Yemen in December 2025. This power shift has created transportation vulnerabilities for the island, which is now controlled by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) that has engaged in conflicts with Yemen’s central government.
Stranded tourists report mounting concerns regarding financial limitations and essential services. With no functioning ATMs or electronic payment systems available, visitors face imminent cash shortages that threaten their ability to secure basic necessities. Many have expressed frustration over the lack of reliable information regarding evacuation timelines.
Potential evacuation options include risky sea transport via cargo vessels to Salalah, Oman, or awaiting uncertain airlift operations. Recent reports from airport officials suggest possible Yemenia Airways flights to Aden and onward to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, though these arrangements remain unconfirmed.
The United States Department of State has reinforced its travel advisory against all travel to Yemen, noting the government’s inability to provide consular services to citizens in the region. Despite current physical safety, stranded tourists experience growing uncertainty about their repatriation timelines.
Socotra’s transformation from isolated territory to tourist destination was largely facilitated by UAE-backed infrastructure development between 2018-2025, which modernized airport facilities and introduced essential services including electricity and clean water systems. This development paradoxically occurred while Yemen mainland continued to suffer one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.