Transportation in Sanaa

Sanaa's transport scene is built around shared taxis and minibuses that fan out from Bab al-Yemen and Tahrir Square, cheap, crowded, and the way locals move. Private taxis are the moderate option if you want doors that close and a seat to yourself. Bargain the fare before you get in, because meters are rare. For a splurge, hotels can arrange chauffeured cars that spare you the haggle but cost several times the shared ride. First-timers should know that afternoon prayer time can empty the streets of drivers for 30, 45 minutes, plan around it or be ready to wait. Stick to the main ranks near the gates of the Old City. Lone cars cruising for tourists often quote fantasy prices. From Sanaa International, the only reliable exit is the official taxi stand directly outside arrivals. Ignore the freelance touts inside the hall. The ride to central hotels is moderate in cost and takes 20, 30 minutes outside peak hours.