Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SECURITY - SHABWA
For the past few years Shabwa has been the domain of Islamic militants aligned to Al-Qaeda and is the scene of
frequent battles between militants and the Yemeni army as well as US drone strikes. Consequently, this is cur-
rently one of the most dangerous places in the world for a westener and we have been unable to conduct on-
ground research here since 2007.
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Al-Mukalla
05 / POP 182,500
Sights & Activities
Al-Mukalla's old town and corniche are interesting. The former is reminiscent of Zanzibar
and India, and has an exotic (but incredibly dirty) feel to it. It's not at all like an inland Ye-
meni town. The corniche has a more European flavour and used to make a great place for
an evening walk. The Mukalla Museum (Corniche) , occupying part of the elegant former
Sultan's Palace, contains displays relating to the sultan and to the town's history.
Sleeping
Al-Mukalla used to be a popular holiday destination with both Yemenis and Saudis want-
ing to dip their toes in the sea. Today, most hotels probably stand empty or have closed
down. In the past popular places to stay with western tourists were the cheap Al-Salama Hotel
(
305210; Al-Mukalla St) , the mid-range Ryboon City Hotel (
) and the very
303606; Fouah St;
pleasant top-end Al-Bustan Hotel (
) .
318770; www.albustan-mukalla.com ;
Getting There & Around
Yemenia ( 303444; www.yemenia.com.au ; Al-Ghar al-Amar St) has flights to Sana'a (US$140). Felix
Airways ( 565656; www.felixairways.com ) has flights to Sana'a (US$119), Socotra (US$118)
and Aden (US$102).
The airport (based at Ar-Rayyan) lies 40km from Al-Mukalla.
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