Red Sea Islands, Yemen: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Red Sea Islands, Yemen? If you're planning to go to Red Sea Islands, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Red Sea Islands, Yemen

Based on the climate and weather in Red Sea Islands, Yemen, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Red Sea Islands, Yemen

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Red Sea Islands, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Red Sea Islands, Yemen by month

January

If you are traveling to Red Sea Islands in January, you will notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

February

February in Red Sea Islands is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you are traveling to Red Sea Islands in March, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

April

April in Red Sea Islands is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Take care to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

If you are traveling to Red Sea Islands in May, you will notice that it can be excruciatingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

Traveling to Red Sea Islands in June, you will notice that it is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Take care to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

July

If you visit Red Sea Islands during July, you may notice that it is blindingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

If you go to Red Sea Islands in August, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Make sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September is sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Ensure that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you go to Red Sea Islands in October, you will notice that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Be careful to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

November

November in this region is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Check that you choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

December

December for Red Sea Islands is pretty consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Yemen has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Red Sea Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Red Sea Islands, Yemen

The Red Sea Islands of Yemen are a paradise for tourists looking for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in the southwestern part of Yemen, the islands are renowned for their stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and charming coastal communities. Whether you are interested in exploring the local culture or just relaxing by the sea, there is something for everyone in the Red Sea Islands. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top tourist attractions in the area.

1. Socotra Island

Socotra Island is the most famous of the Red Sea Islands, boasting unique features you won't find in any other place on earth. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. With a stunning mountainous landscape, vast stretches of pristine beaches, and an array of plant and animal species you won't find anywhere else, Socotra Island is a nature lover's paradise. Popular activities on the island include hiking, swimming, and exploring the unique vegetation.

2. Al Mukalla

Al Mukalla is the capital city of Hadhramaut, one of the largest provinces in Yemen. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its beautiful architecture, traditional markets, and historic buildings. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Old Souk, a labyrinthine market that's been in place for centuries! Other must-visit highlights in Al Mukalla include the Sultan's Palace, the Shahr Al-Shaabi Museum, and the Great Mosque.

3. Perim Island

Perim Island is Yemen's biggest Red Sea Island, boasting stunning wilderness that remains largely untouched. Tourists often come here to view the captivating landscape and see the wildlife, including abundant bird species and the elusive fennec fox. Besides the natural scenery, there are also some interesting archaeological sites on the island, such as the remains of an ancient church.

4. Bir Ali

Bir Ali is a picturesque seaside town known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and sunbathing, or take a stroll along the palm-fringed promenade that hugs the coast. The town's unique mud brick structures, which blend traditional Yemeni architecture with modern design, make it a beautiful and inspiring place to visit.

5. Qalansiyah

Qalansiyah, a small town perched on a hill overlooking the Red Sea, is one of the most picturesque places in Yemen. The town is renowned for its stunning landscapes and beautiful historical landmarks, including a 12th-century fort that overlooks the sea. Other noteworthy attractions include the orchards, the ancient graveyard, and the local market.

In conclusion, Red Sea Islands in Yemen have something for everyone, from sun worshipers to history buffs to nature lovers. Visitors to the islands will find beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife that will keep them captivated throughout their stay. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of Socotra Island, soak up the local culture in the coastal towns or soak up the sun on the beaches, the Red Sea Islands in Yemen are a must-visit destination.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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