Sanaa International Airport (SAH)
ICAO: OYSN
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Sanaa International Airport (SAH) Arrivals & Departures — check real-time flight status, delays, gate changes, and baggage claim information for all domestic and international flights at SAH.
Overview
Sanaa International Airport (IATA: SAH, ICAO: OYSN), also known as El Rahaba Airport, is the primary international airport serving Sanaa, the capital of Yemen. Located about 13 km north of Sanaa city centre in the Ar-Rahabah area, SAH is the home base of Yemenia (IY), the national carrier of Yemen, and the main gateway to the northern provinces of the country.
The airport opened in 1964 and has grown to become the busiest airport in Yemen, handling approximately 80% of all air passengers in the country. It features a single passenger terminal, a presidential lounge, a departure hall, an arrival hall, and a transit hall, along with a duty-free area and free Wi-Fi for passengers. The airport operates 24 hours a day and can accommodate aircraft as large as the Boeing 747.
SAH connects to a limited but growing number of destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. Popular routes include Amman (AMM), Cairo (CAI), Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), and Mumbai (BOM). The airport is the main hub for Yemenia (IY), which operates domestic flights within Yemen and international services to key regional destinations.
The airport has faced significant operational challenges in recent years due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Commercial passenger services have been suspended or highly restricted for extended periods. In 2024, Yemenia (IY) began restoring international routes, including daily flights to Cairo (CAI) and services to India and Jordan, marking a gradual return of regular passenger operations.
Popular Destinations from Sanaa International Airport (SAH)
International routes include Cairo (CAI), Amman (AMM), Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Mumbai (BOM), and Jeddah (JED). The airport connects to destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, operated by airlines including Yemenia (IY), Royal Jordanian (RJ), EgyptAir (MS), Qatar Airways (QR), Air Arabia (G9), and flydubai (FZ).
Terminals
Sanaa International Airport operates a single main passenger terminal that handles both international and domestic flights. The terminal was originally built in the 1970s and has been expanded over the years to accommodate growing passenger traffic.
The main terminal is divided into several functional areas — a departure hall, an arrival hall, and a transit hall — all connected within the same building. The terminal also includes a presidential lounge and a VIP lounge for official visits and dignitaries.
The airport features a duty-free shopping area, multiple dining options, and free Wi-Fi for passengers. The terminal is designed to handle up to 1.2 million passengers annually and can accommodate aircraft as large as the Boeing 747.
A second terminal was planned and construction began in the late 2000s, but the project was halted due to the ongoing conflict. The existing terminal continues to serve all passenger operations.
The airport operates 24 hours a day. The minimum connection time at SAH is 60 minutes for most transfers. All facilities are within the same terminal building, so transfers are quick and straightforward.
| Terminal | Purpose | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal | International & domestic flights | Yemenia (IY), Royal Jordanian (RJ), EgyptAir (MS), Qatar Airways (QR), Air Arabia (G9) |
| Presidential & VIP Lounge | Official visits & dignitaries | State visits, private aviation |
Transportation
Sanaa International Airport is located about 13 km north of Sanaa city centre in the Ar-Rahabah area. The airport is connected to the city by the main airport road, and several transport options are available for passengers.
Taxi
Official taxis are available outside the Arrivals hall. A journey to central Sanaa typically takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately YER 1,000–2,000 (approximately $4–8). Fares should be negotiated with the driver before departure, and bargaining is expected.
Ride-hailing
Ride-hailing services are limited in Sanaa. Local taxi services and private car hires are the primary alternatives. Travelers are advised to arrange transportation in advance through their hotel or a trusted local contact.
Private Transfer
Book a driver in advance for a stress-free arrival. Private transfers can be arranged through hotels or local travel agencies. Prices vary depending on the destination and should be confirmed in advance. This is the recommended option for business travellers and first-time visitors.
Car Rental
Several car rental companies operate at SAH, including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt. Pickup counters are located near the Arrivals hall. Rental prices start from approximately $15 per day. Hiring a car with a local driver is recommended for security and navigation reasons.
Public Bus
Public bus services are limited at the airport. There is no dedicated express airport bus. For most travellers, taxis and private transfers are the recommended options.
Car Rental at Sanaa International Airport (SAH)
Compare live rates from Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Sixt, and trusted local suppliers. Pickup counters are located near the Arrivals hall. Rental prices start from approximately $15 per day. Hiring a car with a local driver is recommended for security reasons.
🚗 Search available cars →Hotels Near Sanaa International Airport (SAH)
Choose from 20+ hotels near Sanaa International Airport — from budget options to premium brands like the Mercure Sanaa Al Saeed Hotel and the Sheraton Sanaa. Several hotels offer airport shuttle services for guests. Free Wi-Fi is available at most properties.
🏨 See nearby hotels →Sanaa International Airport (SAH) Map & Layout
Interactive map showing terminals, parking, taxi stands, ride-hailing pickup zones, and nearby landmarks.
Airport Information & Contacts
Ar-Rahabah, Sanaa, Yemen