Many travelers complain of inhumane treatment at the Al-Wadiah border crossing, both by the Saudi side and by Yemeni mercenaries loyal to Riyadh.
According to media sources, in addition to poor organization and the creation of severe congestion, Saudi-backed military militias have imposed illegal financial levies on Yemeni travelers through the Al-Wadiah border crossing, sparking widespread public discontent.
The sources reported that the so-called “Homeland Shield” militia, established by Saudi Arabia and controlling the crossing, unofficially imposes 50 Saudi riyals on each Yemeni passport, without any legal justification.
This measure is part of a series of levies and tributes imposed by militias loyal to the Saudi-Emirati coalition at land and sea ports, as well as on roads linking Yemeni governorates. These levies have become an additional burden on citizens, especially in light of the difficult economic conditions.
These violations have been sharply criticized by activists and travelers, who have described the practices as a form of “systematic extortion.” They have called for an end to these practices, for those involved to be held accountable, and for freedom of movement to be guaranteed without the imposition of illegal fees.
