Cultural Courtesy
Dress Code & Local Customs
For Women
Modest clothing helps build mutual respect with island locals:
- Tops & Head: Long-sleeved cotton tops & a light head-scarf.
- Bottoms: Baggy, unrevealing trousers (ideal for hiking).
- Villages: Shoulders, arms, and legs down to below the knee must be covered.
- Beach: Shorts and beachwear are strictly for beach locations only.
For Men
- Tops: Short-sleeved shirts or t-shirts are fine.
- Shorts: Avoid shorts in towns/villages; reserve them for the beach.
Ramadan times
Our team will be fasting while working. They will eat before sunrise and break their fast at sunset. We kindly ask for your respect during daylight hours in public spaces.
Strictly Dry Island — Alcohol Policy
Socotra is strictly dry. There are no bars, and any personal alcohol will be confiscated by airport authorities upon arrival. Please do not bring alcohol to Socotra.
Local Connections
Children & Community Respect
Photography & Interactions
Children deserve privacy. Poverty is not a photo opportunity.
- No photos without explicit consent from a guardian.
- If unsure → do not take the photograph.
- No cash or candy distributed directly to children.
- No gifts from moving vehicles or in exchange for photos.
Constructive Charity
Support locally by purchasing educational toys/supplies in transit (e.g., Jeddah) or in Hadiboh. Our team will coordinate passing these directly to local schools.
Eco-Preservation
"Galápagos of the Indian Ocean"
307+
Endemic Plants
11
Endemic Birds
100%
Protected Biosphere
Respect Wildlife & Plants
- No Harvesting: Do not remove shells, rocks, or corals.
- Protect Trees: Do not touch/climb Dragon’s Blood trees.
Preserve Marine Life
- Reef Care: Do not touch or step on fragile corals.
- Sunscreen: Use mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen only.
Protect Fresh Water
- No Soap: Never wash with soap/shampoo in natural pools or wadis.
Leave No Trace
- Pack it Out: Carry all trash out (plastics, wet wipes).
