How to Reach Socotra Island?
Flights to the island are operated only by Air Arabia and Yemenia Airlines, and all bookings for tourists must be arranged through a licensed travel agency based in Socotra
Flight Options
• Air Arabia offers direct flights from Abu Dhabi (UAE) to Socotra twice a week,every Tuesday and Friday.• Yemenia Airlines operates a once-weekly flight from Cairo with a layover in Aden, Yemen.
• Due to limited availability, early booking is essential. Some flights get fully booked months in advance.
FAQS?
HOW DO I GET TO THE ISLAND?
There’s a direct flight from Abu Dhabi, and when you land, it feels like stepping into another world. The air smells of salt and frankincense, and locals greet you with smiles as if you’ve always belonged here.
BEST TIME TO VISIT?
October–May, with mild weather, green landscapes, and calm seas.
WHERE WILL I STAY WHEN I ARRIVE?
You can choose between small, friendly hotels in Hadibo or eco-camps where you fall asleep under a sky full of stars. Imagine waking up to the sound of goats wandering past your tent and the smell of fresh bread being baked nearby.
IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO SOCOTRA RIGHT NOW?
Yes, it’s safe. Life here feels untouched by the troubles of the mainland. In the mornings, you’ll see fishermen mending their nets by the shore, children playing barefoot in the sand, and the sound of the waves mixing with laughter. It’s peaceful, simple, and welcoming.
DO I NEED A VISA?
Yes. Yemeni visas are required and usually arranged by local operators in advance.
ARE THERE HOTELS?
There are a few very basic hotels in Hadiboh, but camping is the primary way to explore the island. If you’re not comfortable with rustic conditions, this might not be the destination for you—but trust us, it’s worth stepping out of your comfort zone.
WILL I HAVE A GUIDE WITH ME?
Yes, always. And they’re not just guides,they’re storytellers, friends, and protectors of the island. They’ll walk with you through canyons, explain the secrets of the plants, and at the end of the day, sit with you around a fire, sharing fresh fish and bread baked under the sand.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Bring light clothes, good shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. But leave space in your bag,you may want to take back small gifts, like handmade crafts or a jar of Socotri honey offered with a smile.
CAN I BRING MY KIDS OR TRAVEL ALONE?
Of course. Families find joy in the wide, safe beaches where children can play freely. Solo travelers often say they never feel alone here,because someone will always invite you for tea, or share a story about the island’s past as if you were an old friend.
WHY IS SOCOTRA SO SPECIAL?
Because it surprises you at every step. One moment you’re walking barefoot across dunes so white they glow in the sun, the next you’re sipping sweet tea with a local family who insist you taste their homemade honey. It’s not just nature,it’s the warmth of the people that makes it unforgettable.