Yemenia Airways announced on Monday evening the launch of direct flights between Socotra Island and the city of Jeddah, in a move aimed at improving air connectivity with the island and facilitating passenger travel, while supporting the tourism sector and local economy.

According to Yemenia’s Deputy Commercial Director, Mr. Mohsen Haidera, the first direct flight is scheduled to operate on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, and will be dedicated to evacuating foreign tourists stranded on Socotra Island due to operational challenges experienced during the previous period.

Haidera noted that the airline plans, at a later stage, to include this route in its regular flight schedule, with weekly services between Jeddah and Socotra. This step is expected to enhance tourism opportunities and reinforce Socotra’s status as one of the world’s most distinctive tourist destinations.

He emphasized that the move comes as part of Yemenia Airways’ broader strategy to expand its air network, strengthen connectivity with key destinations, and facilitate passenger movement, in a manner that supports local economic development and helps keep Socotra firmly on the international tourism map.