Passing through Mukalla International Airport? A layover in Mukalla is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 70 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at RIY:
First, verify that you can enter Yemen — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Private Car takes about 70 minutes into Mukalla, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — YER is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some YER in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From RIY, the Taxi/Private Car gets you to Mukalla in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Private Car offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near RIY
Specific locker facilities at RIY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Mukalla itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Mukalla Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Mukalla might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Mukalla
For a layover visit to Mukalla, we’d suggest Al-Ghweizi Fort and Mukalla Old City & Souq. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at RIY, check out Airport General Waiting Area or Airport Kiosk & Souvenir Stand to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Mukalla Layover
- In the city: Al-Mukalla Traditional Kitchen and Red Sea Seafood Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mukalla.
- At the airport: Mukalla Airport Snack Bar and Terminal Coffee & Tea Point will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and RIY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Mukalla and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at RIY
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at RIY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Mukalla doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from RIY, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.