Yemen Completes Evacuation of Stranded Tourists from Socotra Island

On January 10, 2026, Yemen successfully evacuated over 600 tourists stranded on Socotra Island following the withdrawal of United Arab Emirates (UAE) troops amid escalating tensions with Saudi Arabia. The evacuation was facilitated by four flights operated by Yemenia Airways, which transported 609 tourists to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Yemeni Foreign Ministry confirmed the completion of this operation, which became necessary as air traffic at Socotra's main airport ceased due to the ongoing conflict on the Yemeni mainland.

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The situation on Socotra Island has been complicated by a deepening rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, both of which have historically supported opposing factions in Yemen's civil war. The UAE's troop withdrawal and subsequent air traffic disruptions coincided with renewed hostilities between Saudi-backed forces and the Emirati-supported Southern Transitional Council (STC). Socotra, located over 300 kilometers off the Yemeni coast, has remained relatively peaceful compared to the mainland, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility amid the broader conflict.

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The Yemeni government, led by its Foreign Ministry, played a crucial role in coordinating the evacuation efforts. The STC, which has controlled Socotra for several years, has also been a significant player in the ongoing conflict, receiving support from the UAE. The situation has drawn attention from various international tourists, including nationals from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Poland, who found themselves stranded due to the flight cancellations.

Some tourists expressed frustration over the evacuation process, highlighting issues such as the high cost of the flights—$700 per person—and the chaotic environment at the airport. An Australian tourist described the scene as "a bit of a shit show," with many travelers scrambling to secure funds for the evacuation. Concerns were also raised about the potential long-term impact on Socotra's local economy, which heavily relies on tourism.

The Yemeni Foreign Ministry stated that the evacuation was completed successfully, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of foreign nationals. However, the Australian government has advised against travel to Yemen, including Socotra, citing ongoing armed conflict and a high threat of kidnapping and terrorism.

• “While we're a little bit anxious to get out, really, we're fine — our thoughts are more with the local population, because the only source of jobs on the island is tourism.” — Anonymous Australian Tourist

As the situation evolves, the Yemeni government may face challenges in restoring normal air traffic to Socotra. The ongoing conflict on the mainland and the geopolitical dynamics between the UAE and Saudi Arabia will likely continue to influence the region's stability and tourism prospects.

The Straits Times