Yemen Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology (MTIT)

Type approval in Yemen is managed by the Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology (MTIT).

Critical Advisory (2026): Due to the ongoing political division (Sanaa vs. Aden) and regional conflict, regulations are volatile. The “Type Approval” certificate is primarily issued by the Sanaa-based MTIT, which maintains the technical standards department. However, shipping goods into Aden (Government of Yemen controlled) may require separate customs clearance permits.

1. Regulatory Authority

• Authority Name: Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology (MTIT).

• Primary Hub: Sanaa (This is where the technical Type Approval applications are processed).

• Mandate: Controls the import and licensing of all radio and telecommunications equipment.

2. Critical Market Access Warning (2026)

• Ban on American Products: As of early 2026 (specifically January regulations), the Sanaa-based authorities have issued strict directives banning the import of American-origin products. If your brand is US-based or the “Country of Origin” is the USA, you will likely face a complete block or certificate denial.

• Political Split: You may need a Double Process for logistics.

  • Certificate: You get the Type Approval from MTIT (Sanaa).

  • Import Permit: If clearing customs in Aden (South), you often need a separate “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) from the Aden-based Ministry of Interior or Telecoms, as they may not recognize Sanaa’s authority.

3. Key Requirements

• Local Representative: Mandatory.

  • Foreign manufacturers cannot apply directly. You must use a local Yemeni company (registered in Sanaa) to submit the application.

• Testing: No in-country testing is required.

  • MTIT accepts foreign technical reports (CE/RED).

• Samples: Not Required.

  • The process is purely document-based (paperwork only).

• Validity: 2 Years.

  • Note: This was extended from 1 year to 2 years in late 2022/2023.

• Lead Time: 8–10 weeks.

  • Delays are common due to the political situation.

4. Required Documentation

The process is based on European (RED) compliance.

• Test Reports:

  • RF: EN 300 328, EN 301 893, etc.

  • EMC: EN 301 489.

  • Safety: IEC/EN 62368-1.

• Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Manufacturer’s DoC.

• Technical Datasheet & Photos: Clear photos are essential as they are used for visual verification against the paperwork.

• GSMA TAC: Required for mobile phones (IMEI).

5. Technical Frequency & Network Notes

• Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz): Not Approved / Unregulated.

  • Unlike the GCC countries (Saudi, Qatar, UAE), Yemen has not released regulations opening the 6 GHz band (5925–6425 MHz). Devices operating in this band are technically non-compliant or “Gray Market” and may be rejected.

• 5 GHz Wi-Fi: Restricted (Indoor).

  • Generally allowed for indoor use (5150–5250 MHz). Outdoor use is heavily restricted due to military usage of spectrum.

• GPS/Satellite: High Risk.

  • Devices with standalone GPS tracking or Satellite connectivity (Iridium/Thuraya) are often rejected or confiscated due to security concerns.

6. Labeling Requirements

• Specific Mark: None.

  • MTIT does not require a specific regulatory label (no “MTIT ID” on the box).

• Standard Marking:

  • CE Mark is expected.

  • Country of Origin: Must be clearly marked (e.g., “Made in China”).

Summary Table