Money and duty free for Yemen

Currency and Money

Currency information

Yemeni Riyal (YER) = 100 fils, though amounts under 1 Riyal are rarely quoted. Notes are in denominations of YER1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of YER20, 10, 5 and 1.

Credit cards

Outside major hotels cards are of limited use; American Express, Visa and Diners Club are the most widely accepted.

ATM

Sana'a has a few ATMs; at the airport (though these are not always functioning), at the Moevenpick Hotel and outside a couple of the biggest banks. Aden and Tai'z also have a handful of machines. There are very few ATMs elsewhere in the country.

Travellers cheques

Can be exchanged at some banks and hotels. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.

Banking hours

Sat-Wed 0830-1200, Thurs 0800-1130.

Currency restrictions

Import and export of local currency is prohibited. There are no restrictions on the import of foreign currencies, but amounts exceeding US$3,000 must be declared upon arrival. Export of foreign currencies must not exceed the amount imported.

Currency exchange

Local currency can easily be reconverted at banks, bureaux de change and hotels. US Dollars in cash are the easiest convertible currency.

Yemen duty free

Overview

The following items may be imported into the Republic of Yemen without incurring customs duty:

• Personal belongings and gifts up to a value of YER100,000.

Valuables should be declared on entry.

Banned Imports

Firearms, illegal drugs, obscene literature and all products of Israeli origin.