Tourists Stranded on Yemen's Socotra Island Amid Escalating Conflict

Scores of foreign tourists, estimated to be over 400, are currently stranded on Socotra Island, Yemen, following the grounding of flights due to escalating tensions between rival factions in the country. The island, known for its unique biodiversity and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has become a popular destination for adventure tourism, particularly among expatriates from the nearby United Arab Emirates (UAE). The situation has arisen after a state of emergency was declared, leading to the closure of all ports and airspace.

CNNThe New Arab400 tourists stranded on Yemen’s Socotra island as flights haltedThe Straits Times

Socotra Island has been under the control of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) since 2020. Recent clashes between the STC and Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have intensified, particularly after the STC's territorial gains in early December 2025. This conflict has drawn in regional powers, with Saudi Arabia conducting airstrikes against STC positions and alleged Emirati arms shipments. The deteriorating security situation has severely impacted travel to and from the island.

The New Arab

Tourists on Socotra, including individuals from various countries such as the United States, Poland, and Singapore, have reported being physically safe but uncertain about their return home. Gerrit van Wijngaarden, a tourist stranded with his family, noted that while there were many flights arriving, none were departing. Tourists have been directed to campsites near Qalansiyah, where they are receiving assistance from travel agencies like Rocky Road Travel, which is providing food and supplies.

The Straits Times

A Singaporean tourist, identified only as Ms. Chen, described her experience of being stopped by soldiers at Socotra International Airport just before her scheduled flight home. She and her group were informed of the flight cancellations only hours before their departure, leading to their relocation to a campsite. Despite the challenges, tourists have reported that there is no shortage of food or supplies.

The Straits Times

The U.S. Department of State has advised against all travel to Yemen, citing the inability to provide consular services in the region. Many embassies, including those of Poland and Singapore, have been contacted for assistance, but their responses have been limited due to the lack of diplomatic presence in Yemen. The Polish foreign ministry confirmed that Polish tourists are among those stranded, while the Singaporean government has reiterated its travel advisory for citizens to avoid Yemen.

CNN

While officials on the island report that over 400 tourists are stranded, there is some discrepancy regarding the exact number, with estimates varying among different sources. Flights are expected to resume soon, but the timeline remains uncertain. Tourists continue to await updates on their travel options, with some considering alternative routes via commercial ships to Oman.

The New Arab

• “There’s a lot (of tourists),” said an American tourist in Socotra. “There’s hundreds of them.” — Anonymous

CNN

• “A lot of planes came, but no planes are leaving anymore.” — Gerrit van Wijngaarden

CNN

• “I am deeply disappointed that this happened at a time meant for new beginnings,” — Ms. Chen

The Straits Times

The situation on Socotra Island remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to facilitate the safe return of stranded tourists amid a backdrop of regional conflict.

CNN