Which plug adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in Yemen?

Yemeni power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Yemen?

First check your hair dryer can work in Yemen:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Yemeni power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Yemen, therefore please check that the voltage transformer has the correct power adapter for Yemen otherwise you will still need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in Yemen you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Yemen please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Yemen

Will my hair dryer work in Yemen?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volts used in Yemen. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in Yemen. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on can you use a power converter with a domestic hair dryer in Yemen for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Yemen

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer for Yemen look for a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which operates with a 230 volt Yemeni power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long cable. If drying thick hair buy a model which includes a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

The top 9 things to consider when purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. To function in Yemen a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  2. The 'cool shot' feature on modern travel dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this feature could be missing in more compact models.
  3. Don't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer on the market - as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor construction.
  4. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room.
  5. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start a fire - you can recognise models by the two reset and test buttons.
  6. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  7. Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options; hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to your hair.
  8. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a convenient outlet which could make it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the longest power cord possible or use either a portable mirror or extension cable.
  9. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a dryer which includes both a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82m power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both only require a cheap power adapter for Yemen to fit into a Yemeni power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit into a carry-on travel bag.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy.
  • For a blow dryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to incorporate options which are normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right plug adapter for a Yemeni power outlet they will work in Yemen and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They are two speed, have a 1.5 metre power cable and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

  • With a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in faster and safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and comes with a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Yemen in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Yemeni power outlet.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Yemen?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conair-Group-Ltd-5549U-TRESemme/dp/B00I4R4A84?crid=3P4NIYAG2C5JL&keywords=Ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage&qid=1695044687&sprefix=ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c6cca6f1cdf99277aafe116a9bf0d0ba&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Yemen Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Yemen power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Yemeni power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Yemeni power outlet is 50 Hz. [16]

What is the mains voltage in Yemen?

Power outlets in Yemen are 230 volts.

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Yemen?

Type A, D and G power outlets

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Yemen?

There are three types of power outlets used in Yemen, these are type G, A and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify the wall socket by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type D - You can identify the power outlet by the 3 round holes in a triangular shape.
  • Plug Type G - You can recognise the wall socket by three rectangular holes in a triangular configuration.

A Type G plug adapter is suitable for powering a 230 volt hair dryer in Yemen - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Yemen with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Yemen then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Yemeni power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Yemeni power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Yemen.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Yemen or any other country.

How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Yemeni power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial normally requires a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on certain models.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Yemen?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Yemen, also plug in the power adapter into the Yemeni power outlet.
  4. It's common on most travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting; but the speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be operated in Yemen.

Travelling to Yemen with a hair dryer

Can a blow dryer go in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a blow dryer go in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that your airline who is flying you to Yemen will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Yemen?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to Yemen (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Yemeni power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Yemen). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and are much lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Yemen might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [19] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Yemen have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Yemen have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found attached to a bathroom wall or could potentially be a slower air hose variety. In budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either call ahead to the hotel in Yemen or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to the hotel in Yemen or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Yemen

Do you need a converter in Yemen to use your hair dryer?

The correct power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Yemen. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer, however it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [9] [AD]

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Yemen, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Yemeni power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type D power adapter

A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in Yemen with a Type D travel charger.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts, consult the user guide for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You will need to use a Type D plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Yemen. The plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet in Yemen simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start by inserting the Type D plug adapter into the Yemeni power outlet. The wall outlet (known as the Type D power outlet [3]) looks like 3 holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Yemeni power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type G power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in Yemen by using a three prong Type G power adapter.

  1. Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Yemen - refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Yemen you'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [6]. This Type G plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Yemen by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Firstly plug in the Type G plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify the wall supply by the three holes with shutters in a triangular shape.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Yemeni power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type A power adapter

A guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Yemen with a Type A power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting to use in Yemen, please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. Please check that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer can work with a 230 volt power supply). If the type of power outlet used in Yemen doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type A plug adapter [8]. This plug adapter helps adapt plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet in Yemen simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by two slots for live and neutral blades. Be aware that power cables used with type A sockets which are rated at less that 240 volts shouldn't be used so we recommend checking prior to continuing.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Yemeni power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Yemen using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org web page about Yemen
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  8. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  9. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  10. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  11. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  12. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  15. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  19. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.