Understanding the Health System in Yemen

Yemen's healthcare system is comprised of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MoPHP) and is free for Yemeni citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are not allowed to use the public healthcare system in Yemen. Private healthcare is the primary option for foreigners, and is generally more expensive than public healthcare. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Yemen's Public Healthcare System

Yemen's public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MoPHP). It is free for Yemeni citizens, but foreigners are not allowed to use the public healthcare system. Public hospitals in Yemen are often overcrowded and lack basic medical supplies and equipment. As a result, people generally do not recommend using public hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Yemen's Private Healthcare System

Yemen's private healthcare system is the primary option for foreigners. Private hospitals are generally more expensive than public hospitals, but they are better equipped and have more experienced staff. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Yemen are often located in major cities such as Sana'a, Aden, and Taiz.

Yemen's Top Hospitals

• Al-Sabeen Maternal and Child Hospital (public, Sana'a)
• Al-Jumhuri Hospital (public, Aden)
• Al-Thawra Hospital (public, Taiz)
• Al-Nahda Hospital (private, Sana'a)
• Al-Ahli Hospital (private, Aden)
• Al-Razi Hospital (private, Taiz)
• Al-Hikma Hospital (private, Sana'a)
• Al-Amal Hospital (private, Aden)
• Al-Huda Hospital (private, Taiz)

Health Insurance Companies in Yemen

The most popular private health insurers in Yemen are Al-Ahli Takaful Insurance Company, Al-Ahli Insurance Company, and Al-Ahli United Insurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Yemen: How to Navigate the Health System

"Medical services in Yemen are severely limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources. Many hospitals and clinics have been destroyed or lack the necessary equipment and supplies to provide adequate care. Access to medical care is further hindered by the lack of trained medical personnel and the difficulty of travelling to medical facilities due to the insecurity of the country. In addition, the cost of medical care is often prohibitively expensive for many Yemenis. Despite these challenges, some organizations are working to provide medical assistance to those in need," commented one member living in Yemen.

"Healthcare services in Yemen are limited due to the ongoing civil war and the resulting economic crisis. The public healthcare system is inadequate and underfunded, leading to poor quality services and limited access to medical care. Foreign residents have limited access to the public healthcare system, as it is mainly reserved for Yemeni citizens. Expats in Yemen typically rely on private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care. Private clinics and hospitals are available in major cities, but access to these services is limited in rural areas," commented one member living in Yemen.