India Yemen Travel Advisory issued by Ministry of External Affairs

India Yemen Travel Advisory Updated as MEA Withdraws 2017 Travel Restriction

New Delhi, India, 13 July 2026: India Yemen Travel Advisory has been updated after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) withdrew its 2017 notification restricting travel by Indian nationals to Yemen. The decision follows a review of the country’s travel restrictions and was notified through Government of India Gazette Notification No. 3760(E) dated 10 July 2026.

While the earlier restriction has been withdrawn, the MEA continues to advise Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Yemen because of the prevailing security situation.


India Yemen Travel Advisory Updated Following Gazette Notification

The revised India Yemen Travel Advisory comes after the withdrawal of Gazette Notification No. 3223(E), originally issued on 3 October 2017, which had imposed restrictions on travel by Indian nationals to Yemen.

The withdrawal was officially notified through Government of India Gazette Notification No. 3760(E) issued on 10 July 2026.

The latest notification removes the earlier travel restriction but does not change the government’s overall safety advice regarding travel to Yemen.


MEA Continues to Advise Against Non-Essential Travel

Despite withdrawing the previous notification, the India Yemen Travel Advisory continues to caution Indian nationals against undertaking non-essential travel to Yemen.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs:

  • Non-essential travel to Yemen should be avoided.
  • Any unavoidable travel should only be undertaken after carefully assessing local security conditions.
  • Travellers should avoid areas affected by armed conflict or ongoing security risks.

The ministry emphasised that the security situation in Yemen remains fragile.


Advisory for Indians Living in Yemen

The updated India Yemen Travel Advisory also includes guidance for Indian nationals currently residing in Yemen.

The MEA has advised residents to:

  • Remain vigilant at all times.
  • Restrict unnecessary movement.
  • Closely monitor the local security situation.
  • Follow instructions issued by local authorities where appropriate.

These measures are intended to help minimise risks in the event of deteriorating security conditions.


Registration with Embassy Encouraged

The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly encouraged all Indian citizens living in or travelling to Yemen to register with the Embassy of India in Riyadh.

According to the ministry, registration will:

  • Help establish communication with Indian nationals.
  • Enable the embassy to provide assistance during emergencies.
  • Improve coordination in case of evacuation or crisis situations.

The advisory highlights the importance of staying connected with Indian diplomatic authorities while in Yemen.


Government Reviews Travel Restrictions

The withdrawal of the 2017 notification reflects the government’s review of existing travel restrictions.

However, officials have clarified that although the legal restriction has been withdrawn, travellers should continue exercising extreme caution due to Yemen’s ongoing security challenges.

The MEA continues to monitor the situation and may issue further advisories as required.


Key Highlights

  • MEA withdraws 2017 travel restriction on Yemen.
  • Withdrawal notified through Gazette Notification No. 3760(E).
  • Non-essential travel to Yemen remains discouraged.
  • Travellers advised to assess security conditions before travel.
  • Indians in Yemen urged to remain vigilant.
  • Embassy registration in Riyadh strongly recommended.
  • Government continues monitoring the security situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Has India lifted the Yemen travel restriction?

Yes. The Ministry of External Affairs has withdrawn the 2017 notification restricting travel to Yemen.

Can Indians now travel to Yemen?

While the restriction has been withdrawn, the MEA continues to advise against non-essential travel because of security concerns.

What should travellers do before visiting Yemen?

Travellers should carefully assess local security conditions and avoid conflict-affected areas.

What advice has been given to Indians living in Yemen?

The MEA advises Indian nationals to remain vigilant, restrict movement and monitor the security situation.

Why should Indians register with the Embassy?

Registration helps the Embassy of India in Riyadh communicate with citizens and provide assistance during emergencies.


Conclusion

The updated India Yemen Travel Advisory marks an important policy change with the withdrawal of the 2017 travel restriction. However, the Ministry of External Affairs continues to caution Indian nationals against non-essential travel due to the ongoing security situation in Yemen. Travellers planning essential visits are advised to exercise extreme caution, stay informed and register with the Embassy of India in Riyadh to ensure timely assistance if required.