Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Hodeidah gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HOD to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside HOD
Three things to verify before you walk out of HOD:
- Can you legally enter Yemen? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the YER. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some YER in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Hodeidah on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Hodeidah, two standouts are:
- Al-Hudaydah Corniche — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Hodeidah.
- Hodeidah Local Souq — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HOD, you can spend time at Airport General Waiting Area or try Small Souvenir/Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting from HOD to Hodeidah
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Local Yemeni Restaurant and Hodeidah Seafood Spot are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Hodeidah.
- At the airport: Airport Cafeteria and Airport Coffee & Snack Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Hodeidah might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HOD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Hodeidah or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at HOD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Hodeidah’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HOD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Hodeidah exploring the streets or relaxing at HOD, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.