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Convert YAML to XML Online Convert YAML data to well-formed XML with customizable element names.

YAML to XML illustration
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YAML to XML

Convert YAML data to well-formed XML with customizable element names.

1

Paste YAML

Paste your YAML content into the input area.

2

Set element names

Customize root and item tag names.

3

Copy XML Output

Copy the well-formed XML output with declaration.

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What Is YAML to XML?

YAML to XML converts YAML data structures into well-formed XML documents. This converter uses js-yaml for accurate YAML parsing, then recursively transforms the resulting data structure into XML elements. Objects become parent elements with child elements for each key, arrays create repeating elements with the configurable item tag, and primitive values become text content. The output includes an XML declaration and uses proper character escaping.

Why Use YAML to XML?

  • Accurate YAML parsing with the js-yaml library.
  • Customizable root and array item element names.
  • Proper XML character escaping for special characters.
  • Clean, indented XML output with declaration.

Common Use Cases

Legacy Integration

Convert YAML configs to XML for legacy systems that require XML input.

SOAP Services

Generate XML from YAML data for SOAP web service requests.

Publishing

Transform YAML-formatted content into XML for publishing workflows.

Cross-Platform Exchange

Convert YAML data to XML for universal data interchange.

Technical Guide

The converter first parses YAML using js-yaml's load() function, then recursively generates XML. For YAML mappings (objects), each key becomes an XML child element. For sequences (arrays), each item generates a repeating element using the configurable item tag.

Key names are sanitized for XML: characters not valid in XML names are replaced with underscores, and names starting with numbers are prefixed with an underscore. All text content is escaped using XML entities.

The recursive generator tracks indentation level for pretty-printing. Null values produce self-closing empty elements. The output starts with an XML declaration specifying UTF-8 encoding.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    Choose meaningful root and item tag names that reflect your XML schema.
  • 2
    YAML keys with special characters are sanitized for valid XML element names.
  • 3
    YAML comments are ignored during parsing.
  • 4
    Array items use the configured "item" tag name.

Related Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Q How are YAML arrays converted?
Each array item becomes a repeating XML element using the configured item tag name.
Q What about YAML null values?
Null values produce self-closing empty XML elements.
Q Are YAML comments included?
No, YAML comments are discarded during parsing as per the YAML specification.
Q Is the output valid XML?
Yes, the output is well-formed XML with proper escaping and an XML declaration.
Q Can I customize tag names?
Yes, you can set both the root element name and the array item element name.

About This Tool

YAML to XML is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.