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Tourists Stranded on Yemen's Socotra Island Amid Saudi-UAE Rift

Hundreds of tourists are stranded on Yemens remote Socotra Island after flights were grounded. A deepening political rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, involving their roles in Yemens civil war, disrupted air travel.

| Updated on: Jan 07, 2026 | 11:41 AM
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Hundreds of tourists find themselves unexpectedly stranded on the remote Yemeni island of Socotra following the halting of flights. This disruption stems from a deepening political rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), nations backing opposing groups in Yemens ongoing civil war.

Approximately 600 visitors, who had flown to Socotra for its unique beauty, are now unable to depart. The crisis unfolded after the UAE withdrew its troops from Yemen last week under a deadline from Saudi Arabia, subsequently impacting air travel to the island.

Italian tourist Tiziana Casanato voiced the frustrations of many, stating that while a short delay might be acceptable, the prolonged situation is causing significant problems, affecting their return to work and other commitments.

Socotra, despite being a haven of tranquillity during mainland conflicts, is now at the centre of a geopolitical predicament affecting innocent travellers.