Hi,
I'd like to know how is it with women travellers in Yemen. I know they should be decently dressed but what is decent enough? Do they have to cover hair?
thanks
Saso

When I was in Yemen I only saw about three western women who didn't cover their hair during my entire stay. You don't HAVE to, but I advise you to. Yemenis are very friendly and they won't do anything to you, but you might be bothered by all the attention you will receive.
I wore the abaya ( the black robe that covers your body, it is lose fitted) and the hijab. I didn't wear the niqab ( that is when you only see the eyes).
If you decide not to wear the Abaya make sure your clothes aren't too fitted. Cover arms and legs.

Enjoy Yemen, it is a beautiful country!

In Yemen it is better if women travellers cover hair, but if they don't cover it no problem specialy if they will travel with tour agency..

I agree with the previous posters - you don't HAVE TO cover your hair, but you will be better received and get less hassle if you do. I had young girls tugging at my hejab on more than one occasion when they felt I was showing too much hair. Wear baggy clothes or the abaya. You can pick one up very cheaply over there.

I think it all has to do with how you conduct yourself there. I traveled with two 40 year old American women and their mother on parts of my trip. They wore t-shirts and camping pants. While both spoke Arabic they had no problems and were even invited into a few of the old houses in Shibam (this was their second trip). If you are modest and kind around the locals you should not have any problems.

I don't think you have to cover your hair. Yemenis are very friendly and they understand that non-muslim women dress differently. I wore a long skirt and long shirt (except on Socotra) and had been treated with respect the whole time.