Yemen

Stepping into Yemen is like walking into a vibrant tapestry woven with rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a culinary tradition that is as diverse as its people. The air is filled with the tantalizing scents of spices, freshly baked flatbreads, and simmering stews, each corner offering a feast for the senses. Yemeni cuisine tells a story of resilience, community, and the warm hospitality of its people, inviting you to savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations. With ancient trade routes having influenced its dishes, Yemen is a melting pot of culinary heritage, where every meal is an experience steeped in culture and tradition. Among the many delightful dishes that Yemeni cuisine has to offer, here are ten that you absolutely must try on your journey through this enchanting land. First on my list is **Saltah**, the national dish of Yemen. This hearty stew is a delightful amalgamation of meat, vegetables, and spices, typically served with a hearty dollop of **hilbah**, a fenugreek-based sauce that adds a unique, earthy flavor. The dish usually features tender lamb or beef, slow-cooked to perfection, and is served over a bed of fluffy rice or with traditional flatbread. Its robust taste is enhanced by the rich spices that permeate every bite, and the hilbah introduces a creamy, slightly bitter note that balances the dish beautifully. Saltah is best enjoyed in a local home or a traditional restaurant, where you can sit on cushions and savor it with family and friends. Sharing this dish is a ritual that fosters community, highlighting the importance of togetherness in Yemeni culture. Next, we have **Mandi**, a dish that deserves its reputation as a culinary masterpiece. Originating from Hadhramaut, Mandi consists of rice, meat, and a blend of aromatic spices, all cooked together in a unique method that imparts a smoky flavor. The meat—usually chicken or lamb—is marinated with a mixture of saffron, cardamom, and cloves, lending a royal quality to the dish. The rice is cooked with the meat's broth, absorbing the rich flavors and resulting in a sumptuous meal that is often served on special occasions. The taste is a harmonious blend of savory and aromatic, with a slight hint of sweetness from the spices. You'll find Mandi at festive gatherings or in family-run restaurants, where the atmosphere feels both celebratory and intimate. If you’re in the mood for something light yet flavorful, **Fahsa** is a must-try. This dish is characterized by its unique presentation—a blend of shredded meat, typically lamb, cooked in a spiced broth with a variety of vegetables and served in a traditional clay pot. The texture is both tender and comforting, and the spices create a warm, inviting flavor profile. Fahsa is often eaten for breakfast, and it’s common to dip pieces of flatbread into the stew, soaking up the rich, savory broth. I enjoyed this dish in a bustling market, surrounded by locals who shared hearty laughs as they savored their meals, emphasizing the community aspect of sharing food. For those with a fondness for spice, **Zurbian** is a flavorful rice dish that will take you on a culinary adventure. This dish includes rice cooked with marinated meat and a mix of spices, including cinnamon and saffron, which gives it a complex yet balanced flavor. The addition of fried onions and nuts adds a delightful crunch, creating a textural contrast to the tender meat and fluffy rice. Zurbian is a celebratory dish often served during weddings and special occasions, making it not just a meal but a part of the Yemeni cultural experience. You’ll find it at local festivities, where the atmosphere is filled with joy and the sounds of laughter. A lesser-known gem in the Yemeni culinary landscape is **Shorba**, a traditional soup that varies in ingredients depending on the region. It typically includes meat, lentils, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together to create a hearty broth. The flavors are rich and comforting, often enhanced by spices like cumin and coriander. Shorba is often enjoyed as a starter or a light meal, particularly during Ramadan. I savored this dish during a sunset iftar gathering, where the warmth of the soup complemented the warm camaraderie of breaking fast with friends and family, reminding me of the importance of food in uniting us. Next up is **Bint al-sahn**, a delightful dessert that showcases Yemen’s sweet side. This dish consists of layers of thin, flaky dough drizzled with honey and ghee, then baked to golden perfection. Each bite is a heavenly blend of sweetness and richness, with the honey providing a natural sweetness that isn’t overly cloying. The dish is often served during celebrations and is a favorite for special occasions. I remember indulging in Bint al-sahn at a local café, where the owner shared stories of how his grandmother used to make it for family gatherings. The sweetness of the dessert mirrored the warmth of the stories shared, making it an unforgettable experience. Another must-try is **Aseed**, a traditional dish made of a thick dough-like mixture of wheat flour and water, often served with a rich meat or vegetable stew. The texture is unique; it has a dense, chewy quality that pairs beautifully with the savory stews it is served alongside. Aseed is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing unity and sharing. I had the pleasure of enjoying this dish in a rural setting, where families would gather around the table to savor the Aseed, reflecting the strong communal bonds that food fosters in Yemeni culture. For those who enjoy snacks, **Sambusa** is a flavorful pastry that is irresistible. These triangular pockets are filled with a mixture of spiced meat or vegetables, then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The first bite reveals a burst of flavor, with the spices mingling perfectly with the savory filling. Sambusa is especially popular during Ramadan as a part of iftar, often served alongside chutneys or salads. I remember wandering through a vibrant market, savoring these crispy delights from a street vendor who enthusiastically shared his secret spice mix, making the experience even more special. Lastly, you can't leave Yemen without trying **Bakhla**, a traditional dish made from rice and cooked with chicken or lamb, seasoned with a plethora of spices. The rice is cooked separately and then combined with the meat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The dish is often adorned with nuts and raisins, adding a delightful sweetness and texture. Bakhla is commonly served during large gatherings and festive occasions, representing the spirit of sharing and hospitality so prevalent in Yemeni culture. I was lucky enough to enjoy this dish at a family wedding, where it was the centerpiece of the feast, surrounded by laughter and joyous celebration. As you embark on your culinary journey through Yemen, you'll find that the best food is often discovered in local markets, bustling street stalls, and family-run restaurants. Each corner of the country offers its own take on traditional dishes, with recipes rooted in generations of love and care. In the markets, the vibrant colors of spices and fresh produce create a sensory overload, while the street stalls offer quick bites that are bursting with flavor. In restaurants, the ambiance is warm and inviting, with family members often working together to serve you a taste of their heritage. In Yemen, food is more than just sustenance; it’s a celebration of life, a bridge between cultures, and a means of forging connections. Each dish tells a story, and every meal becomes a cherished memory. So grab a fork, dive into the flavors, and let the culinary adventure unfold before you. You won’t just be tasting food; you’ll be savoring history, culture, and the essence of Yemen.

# The History of Yemen: From Ancient Times to Today Nestled at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen is a land steeped in history, culture, and complexity. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Africa and Asia has made it a melting pot of civilizations, where trade routes crisscrossed and diverse peoples interacted over millennia. The story of Yemen is one of ancient kingdoms, thriving trade networks, colonial ambitions, and tumultuous modern struggles. Join us as we embark on a journey through time to explore the rich tapestry of Yemen's history. ## Ancient and Indigenous History Yemen's history is deeply rooted in the ancient world, with archaeological evidence suggesting that human habitation dates back to the Paleolithic era. By the third millennium BCE, the region had become home to several advanced civilizations, most notably the Sabaeans, who flourished in the fertile highlands of modern-day Yemen. The Kingdom of Saba, known for its wealth and sophistication, is often cited in ancient texts, including the Bible, as the land of the Queen of Sheba—a figure shrouded in legend and intrigue. The Sabaeans mastered the art of irrigation, which transformed the arid landscape into a thriving agricultural hub. They built the famous Marib Dam, an engineering marvel that supported vast fields of crops, including frankincense and myrrh, which became the backbone of their economy. These luxury goods were highly sought after along the incense trade routes, connecting Yemen to the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia. As time progressed, other kingdoms emerged, including the Himyarites and the Qatabanis, each contributing to Yemen's rich cultural and economic landscape. The Himyarites, in particular, gained prominence in the 4th century CE, establishing a powerful empire that extended beyond Yemen's borders. Their influence was felt across the Arabian Peninsula, enriching the region's cultural exchange and facilitating the spread of knowledge and commerce. ## The Rise and Fall of Empires The 6th century marked a pivotal point in Yemen's history with the arrival of foreign powers. By this time, the Himyarite kingdom had embraced Christianity, and religious tensions began to surface as the Persian Empire sought to expand its influence into the Arabian Peninsula. This culminated in the rise of the Kingdom of Aksum, based in modern-day Ethiopia, which invaded Yemen in an effort to convert the region to Christianity. The subsequent Persian occupation resulted in a tumultuous period characterized by shifting allegiances and internal conflicts. In the early 7th century, the rise of Islam would forever alter the trajectory of Yemen's history. The Prophet Muhammad's message spread rapidly through the Arabian Peninsula, and Yemen, with its established trade routes and strategic location, became an integral part of the early Islamic world. During the Rashidun and Umayyad caliphates, Yemen flourished as a center of Islamic learning and culture. The region became renowned for its scholars, poets, and architects, and many of its cities, such as Sana'a, became significant urban centers. However, with the rise of the Abbasid dynasty, the political landscape shifted once more, leading to fragmentation and the emergence of local dynasties, including the Zaydi imams in the north and the Ismaili Fatimid dynasty in the south. ## The Colonial Era As the Ottoman Empire expanded in the 16th century, Yemen fell under its control, becoming a vital province for the Ottomans, who sought to exploit its resources and strategic location. The Ottomans ruled Yemen for centuries, although their authority was often challenged by local tribes and rulers, particularly in the mountainous regions. In the 19th century, as European colonial powers began to assert their influence in the region, Yemen became a focal point for both British and Ottoman interests. The British, seeking to secure trade routes to India, established a foothold in the southern port city of Aden in 1839. This marked the beginning of a colonial presence that would shape Yemen's future. The British influence in Aden grew, and the city was developed into a significant coaling station and trade hub. However, the colonial era was fraught with tension, as Yemeni tribes resisted foreign domination. The British faced numerous uprisings and revolts, reflecting the resilience and determination of the Yemeni people to maintain their sovereignty. By the turn of the 20th century, Yemen was a patchwork of territories under various forms of control, with the northern highlands largely under Ottoman rule and the southern coastal areas firmly in British hands. The First World War further destabilized the region, and in the aftermath, Yemen experienced a surge of nationalist sentiment. ## Independence and Modern Formation The end of World War I marked the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, and Yemen began to chart its course toward independence. In 1918, the Zaydi imamate in the north proclaimed the establishment of the Kingdom of Yemen, while the southern regions remained under British occupation. The struggle for unity and independence intensified, leading to tensions between the north and south. In 1962, a coup d'état in the north established the Yemen Arab Republic (YAR), marking the beginning of a new chapter in Yemen's history. The ensuing civil war between royalists and republicans drew in regional powers, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, further complicating the conflict. The civil war eventually ended in a republican victory, but Yemen remained divided between the north and the south. Simultaneously, in the south, the British faced increasing resistance from nationalist movements. In 1967, following years of struggle, British colonial rule came to an end, and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY) was established in the south. The new socialist regime aligned itself with the Soviet Union and sought to implement sweeping reforms, but it also faced internal dissent. The 1990s marked a turning point as the two Yemens, the YAR and the PDRY, united to form the Republic of Yemen. This historic unification was celebrated as a triumph, yet the challenges of merging two distinct political systems and ideologies proved daunting. The country grappled with economic difficulties, tribal tensions, and political strife, setting the stage for future conflicts. ## The Contemporary Era The 21st century brought a series of challenges and upheavals to Yemen. In 2011, the Arab Spring swept across the region, igniting protests against President Ali Abdullah Saleh's long-standing rule. The protests culminated in Saleh's resignation in 2012, but the subsequent transition was marred by instability and factionalism. In 2014, the Houthi movement, a Zaidi Shia group, seized control of the capital, Sana'a, prompting a military intervention by a Saudi-led coalition in 2015. The conflict escalated into a brutal civil war, resulting in widespread humanitarian crises, displacement, and loss of life. Yemen became one of the worst humanitarian disasters of our time, with millions facing famine and disease. Despite international efforts to broker peace and resolve the conflict, Yemen remains embroiled in a complex web of political, sectarian, and economic challenges. The ongoing war has highlighted the resilience of the Yemeni people, as they continue to navigate the hardships of conflict while striving for a brighter future. ## Conclusion The history of Yemen is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people, who have weathered centuries of change, conflict, and resilience. From the ancient Sabaeans to the contemporary struggles for peace and unity, Yemen's story is one of complexity and richness. As we reflect on the past, it is essential to understand the historical context that has shaped Yemen today—an understanding that can foster compassion and solidarity for a nation still seeking its path amid adversity. As Yemen continues to grapple with its identity and future, its rich history serves as a reminder of the strength of its culture and the potential for renewal. The tale of Yemen is not merely a chronicle of hardship but also one of hope, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of peace. In the face of challenges, the spirit of Yemen endures, echoing the voices of its past while looking toward a brighter future.

When it comes to travel, Yemen is often overlooked, overshadowed by its more popular neighbors and the tumultuous headlines that have clouded its beauty. Most tourists flock to the iconic sites, like the ancient city of Sana'a or the breathtaking architecture of Shibam, but the true spirit of Yemen lies in its hidden corners, each whispering stories of a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and resilient communities. For those willing to wander off the beaten path, Yemen offers a treasure trove of lesser-known gems that promise an unforgettable adventure. One such gem is the enchanting village of Al-Mahwit. Perched high in the mountains, Al-Mahwit is a picturesque settlement known for its terraced farming and breathtaking views. The village is a living testament to Yemen’s agricultural heritage, where locals cultivate coffee, fruits, and vegetables in lush green terraces that cascade down the mountains. Getting to Al-Mahwit involves a scenic drive from Sana'a, approximately 120 kilometers away. As you navigate the winding roads, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys. Once in the village, spend time wandering the narrow alleys lined with intricately designed mud-brick houses, and don’t miss the chance to chat with the warm-hearted locals, who are often eager to share their traditional coffee and stories of a simpler life. Another hidden treasure is the coastal city of Mukalla, located on the Arabian Sea. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Mukalla boasts stunning beaches and a rich maritime history. What sets Mukalla apart is the stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The dramatic cliffs and azure waters provide the perfect backdrop for exploration. Here, you can visit the historic Al-Qamish Castle, which sits majestically on a hill overlooking the sea, and indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries offering daily catches. Mukalla can be accessed via a flight from Sana'a or a long bus ride, making it an excellent spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. For the adventurous traveler, the Socotra Archipelago is a must-visit destination that feels like stepping into another world. Often referred to as the "Galapagos of the Indian Ocean," Socotra is home to unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Dragon’s Blood Tree and the bizarre, bottle-shaped tree. The island's otherworldly landscapes—towering dunes, rugged mountains, and pristine beaches—are best explored by hiking and camping under the stars. Reaching Socotra requires a flight from mainland Yemen, typically landing in Hadibo, the island’s capital. Once there, you can navigate the island with local guides who will introduce you to Socotra’s extraordinary biodiversity and vibrant local culture. Inland, the town of Ibb offers a serene escape into Yemen's mountainous heartland. Often referred to as the "Green Valley," Ibb is known for its lush landscapes and rich agricultural traditions. As you stroll through the town, you’ll discover vibrant souks, where you can purchase locally made handicrafts and fresh produce. The surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and exploring; one notable trail leads to the stunning Al-Sablan Waterfall, a hidden oasis that rewards hikers with breathtaking views and a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters. Ibb is accessible by bus from Sana'a, and its relatively cooler climate makes it a pleasant retreat from the heat of the lowlands. Another hidden gem is the village of Al-Hawf, located in the eastern part of Yemen, close to the Arabian Sea. Al-Hawf is known for its unique architecture and the stunning landscapes of the nearby Al-Mahrah region, which is characterized by its rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. The village offers an authentic glimpse of rural life in Yemen, where you can witness traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery, being practiced by locals. To get to Al-Hawf, you can take a flight to Al-Ghaydah, the capital of Al-Mahrah, and then travel by local transport. The warm hospitality of the villagers and the stunning desert landscapes make this a truly unforgettable experience. The vibrant city of Taiz, often overlooked by travelers, holds a special place in Yemen's cultural history. Known for its beautiful architecture, Taiz is home to the stunning Al-Mu’ayyad Mosque and the historical Taiz Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The streets of Taiz are alive with the sounds of bustling markets, where you can sample local delicacies, such as the famous Yemeni bread and sweets. A visit to Taiz is not complete without exploring its charming neighborhoods, where you can witness daily life unfold amidst the backdrop of stunning historical sites. Taiz can be reached by bus from Sana'a, and while it may require extra attention to travel advisories, the city’s rich culture and history make it worth the effort. No exploration of Yemen's hidden gems would be complete without mentioning the ancient city of Shibam, often referred to as the "Manhattan of the Desert." While it may be known to some travelers, many overlook its rich surroundings, which are filled with ancient ruins and terraced fields. Shibam is famous for its mud-brick skyscrapers, some of which date back to the 16th century, and the surrounding area offers stunning landscapes of the Hadramaut Valley. To fully appreciate this gem, take the time to venture beyond the city limits and explore the nearby towns of Tarim and Seiyun, which are filled with traditional architecture and historical significance. Shibam is accessible by bus or taxi from Seiyun, making it a feasible day trip for those seeking to delve deeper into Yemen's historical richness. Lastly, a visit to Yemen wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the small but vibrant festivals that celebrate local culture and traditions. One such festival is the Mahra Cultural Festival, held annually in the Al-Mahrah region. This lively event showcases traditional music, dance, and crafts, providing an immersive experience of the local culture. From camel races to poetry competitions, the festival brings together locals and travelers alike, fostering a sense of community through shared celebration. The festival occurs in the spring, and while specific dates can vary, it’s a wonderful opportunity to witness the spirit of Yemen firsthand. As you prepare for your journey into the heart of Yemen's hidden gems, a few practical tips will enhance your experience. First, always stay informed about the local situation—safety is paramount, so check travel advisories and consult local contacts for the latest updates. When traveling within the country, consider hiring a local guide who can not only ensure your safety but also provide insights into the culture and customs of the places you visit. Embrace the local cuisine; Yemeni food is a delightful blend of spices and flavors, and trying dishes like "Mandi" or "Fahsa" will enrich your culinary experience. Lastly, engage with locals with respect and curiosity; the warmth and hospitality of the Yemeni people are one of the country's greatest treasures. In conclusion, while Yemen may be painted with broad strokes of conflict and complexity, its hidden gems reveal a tapestry of beauty, resilience, and rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. For the adventurous traveler willing to stray from the well-trodden path, Yemen offers a unique experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, welcoming communities, and stories that transcend the ordinary. Discovering these lesser-known destinations will not only deepen your understanding of this remarkable country but also leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Yemen's hidden gems await—are you ready to uncover them?

What It's Really Like to Live in Yemen As I sit here in my modest home in Sana'a, the capital of Yemen, I often find myself reflecting on the unique tapestry of daily life that surrounds me. Living here is an experience unlike any other, filled with vibrant colors, rich traditions, and an enduring spirit among its people. In this post, I want to share what it’s like to navigate everyday life in Yemen, diving into the intricate details of our daily routines, the cost of living, the food culture that fills our streets with enticing aromas, the strength of our social customs, and the beautiful complexities of family life and work culture. From the moment the sun rises over the ancient city, the streets come to life. Early mornings are marked by the call to prayer echoing from the numerous mosques that dot the landscape. It’s a sound I have come to cherish, signaling not just the start of the day but a moment of connection for the community. I usually join my neighbors for breakfast, a meal that often includes a steaming cup of shay (tea) infused with cardamom or ginger, accompanied by freshly baked bread known as khubz. Breakfast is an intimate affair where stories are shared and laughter fills the air, setting a warm tone for the day ahead. Living in Yemen, the cost of living is surprisingly low compared to many other countries. A trip to the local market, or souq, reveals a treasure trove of fresh produce and spices. You can purchase a kilo of tomatoes for just a few hundred rials (Yemeni currency), and a whole chicken typically costs around 1,500 rials. Street vendors sell snacks like sambusa—savory pastries filled with lentils or meat—for less than 100 rials each. However, the economic situation in Yemen is precarious due to the ongoing conflict, making prices fluctuate regularly, and in recent years, many families have found it increasingly challenging to make ends meet. The heart of Yemen's culture is undoubtedly its food. Meals are a celebration of flavors and community. Lunch often consists of a hearty platter of saltah, a traditional stew made with meat and vegetables and served with a side of rice and fresh flatbreads. The preparation of food is often a family affair, especially during special occasions. The very act of cooking together is a bonding experience, and it’s common for families to gather around a communal dish, sharing stories and laughter as they eat. Social customs in Yemen are deeply rooted in tradition. You will often see men wearing the traditional jambia, a curved dagger that is more than just a fashion statement; it is a symbol of honor and identity. When greeting someone, the usual expression is “salaam aleikum” (peace be upon you), to which the reply is “wa aleikum as-salaam.” Handshakes are common, especially among men, while women typically greet each other with warm hugs and cheek kisses. Family life in Yemen is the cornerstone of our society. Families are often large, with many extended relatives living nearby or together. It’s not unusual for three generations to reside under one roof. Respect for elders is paramount, and children are taught to honor their parents and grandparents from a young age. Family gatherings are frequent, filled with laughter, storytelling, and shared meals. During evenings, you can often find families sitting together, sipping tea, and discussing their day, reinforcing the bonds that hold us together. Work culture in Yemen varies from urban to rural settings. In cities like Sana'a and Aden, the hustle and bustle of daily commerce fills the air, with shops opening early and closing late. Many people work in agriculture, trade, or small businesses. The work hours can be long, often extending beyond the traditional eight-hour day, but there’s a relaxed attitude towards time. “Insha’Allah” (God willing) is a phrase you’ll hear often, reflecting a cultural acceptance that things may not always happen as planned. Fridays, the Islamic holy day, are typically reserved for family and relaxation. Many people attend the mosque for prayers, followed by a leisurely day spent with loved ones. This is when you’ll find families enjoying picnics in parks or taking trips to nearby historical sites, such as the stunning mud-brick buildings of Shibam or the ancient ruins of Marib. While the weekends are shorter compared to Western norms, the emphasis is on connection and community. Yemen’s weather also plays a significant role in shaping daily life. The highland regions, including Sana'a, enjoy a mild climate year-round, but in the summer, temperatures can soar. The heat is often unbearable, compelling locals to seek refuge in shaded areas during the peak hours of the day. The evenings, however, bring a refreshing coolness that invites gatherings outside. In contrast, coastal cities like Aden experience sweltering heat and humidity, with people often taking to the beaches in the evenings to escape the heat. Despite the challenges we face, including economic hardships and the specter of conflict, there are many positives to living in Yemen. The resilience of our people is inspiring. Communities come together to support one another, whether through shared meals, communal gardens, or simple acts of kindness. The sense of belonging is palpable, and it’s often the small moments—like a child’s laughter or a neighbor’s smile—that remind us of the beauty in our daily lives. Foreigners who visit Yemen often express surprise at the warmth and hospitality extended to them. They are often greeted with open arms, despite preconceived notions shaped by news reports. Visitors often comment on how Yemenis are eager to share their culture, inviting them into their homes and offering meals. The generosity is overwhelming, and it’s a testament to our belief in treating guests with utmost respect, as is customary in our culture. Of course, life in Yemen is not without its difficulties. The ongoing conflict and instability have led to shortages of essentials, such as fuel, medicine, and clean water. Many families struggle to access healthcare, and education has been disrupted for countless children. Yet, amidst these challenges, I have witnessed remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. People find creative solutions to everyday problems, whether it’s sharing resources with neighbors or innovating ways to make do with what they have. In conclusion, living in Yemen is a mosaic of experiences that reflect both the struggles and the joys of our existence. Daily life here is rich with traditions that celebrate community and family, deeply embedded in the culture. The cost of living is low, but the challenges are significant. Our food culture is a delightful expression of flavors, while social customs reinforce our bonds. The weekends beckon for connection, and the weather shapes our routines. While there are many surprises for foreigners, the warmth of our people stands out above all. Life in Yemen is a journey filled with stories that deserve to be shared. It’s a place where the past deeply influences the present, and despite the hardships, there exists a profound love for life, family, and community. To experience Yemen is to embrace a culture that is as rich as its history, and I invite you to explore this extraordinary country, where every moment is a testament to the spirit of our people.

Yemen holds some of the ancient world's most extraordinary heritage — the Queen of Sheba's kingdom, the frankincense trade route, mud-brick skyscrapers 500 years old, and one of the world's most ecologically unique islands — in a country that has been devastated by conflict since 2015. Yemen is not currently accessible as a tourist destination; the ongoing war has caused catastrophic human suffering and severely restricted movement throughout most of the country. But Yemen's cultural and natural inheritance deserves to be known, and its people and their history deserve the respect that comes from understanding what is there. Sana'a, the capital, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with traditions dating the city back to Noah's son Shem. Its UNESCO-listed old city, enclosed within ancient walls, contains over 6,000 tower houses built from rammed earth and dressed stone, with stained glass windows called qamariyyas that cast coloured light into interior spaces. The architecture — up to eight storeys tall, with geometric gypsum friezes and translucent alabaster windows, the buildings rising in clusters that turn amber in the afternoon sun — is genuinely unique, nothing else in the architecture of the Islamic world quite like it. The Souk al-Milh (Salt Market) in the old city has traded spices, silver, cloth and traditional daggers (jambiya) for centuries. The Hadhramaut Valley in eastern Yemen was, before the conflict, perhaps the country's most accessible and astonishing interior landscape. Shibam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site sometimes called the Manhattan of the Desert, is a 16th-century city of tall mud-brick tower houses rising from a flat valley floor — a pre-modern skyline of extraordinary density and visual drama. The towers, some over 30 metres tall and built from sun-dried mud brick, have been continuously inhabited and maintained. Tarim, further along the valley, contains dozens of mosques and a traditional Islamic scholarly tradition that produced scholars who spread Islam across Southeast Asia. Socotra Island in the Arabian Sea — accessible by ferry or flight from the mainland — is one of the world's most ecologically unique places, sometimes called the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean. Around a third of its 900 plant species exist nowhere else on Earth. The dragon blood tree (Dracaena cinnabari), with its umbrella-shaped canopy and red resin used since antiquity in medicine and dye, grows in forests across the island's mountains. White sand beaches, turquoise water, canyons of limestone and permanent wind that shapes the trees into sculptural forms combine in a landscape that photographers and naturalists describe as overwhelming. Socotra has been more accessible than the mainland during parts of the conflict, though conditions require current assessment. The frankincense and myrrh trees of Dhofar (in what is now Oman, near the Yemeni border historically) supplied the ancient world's most valuable trade commodities, and Yemen's landscape still has this quality of deep time — a land that generated the scents of ritual, medicine and trade for civilisations that preceded recorded history. Yemen's food culture — saltah (a traditional stew topped with fenugreek foam), mandi (slow-roasted lamb over rice), fahsa (braised beef with fenugreek) and the honey of the Hadhramaut region considered among the world's finest — reflects an agricultural and pastoral tradition of great depth. When peace and stability return to Yemen, it will once again be what it was before the war: one of the most historically significant and culturally extraordinary destinations on Earth. Its people deserve that moment.

Coffee originated in the Ethiopian highlands, but it was Yemen that turned it into a global commodity. The port city of Mocha — now spelled Mokha — was the world's first great coffee trading port, exporting Yemeni beans to Egypt, Turkey, Persia, and eventually Europe beginning in the 15th century. The word mocha in coffee refers to the port. The taste profile associated with Yemeni coffee — chocolate notes, wine-like acidity, earthy depth — comes from beans grown on ancient terraced mountain farms at altitudes above 1,500 metres and processed by dry methods unchanged in centuries. The old city of Sana'a — inhabited for over 2,500 years — is among the world's most visually extraordinary urban environments. The tower houses of the old city, built from stone, brick, and alabaster windows that glow from within at night like stained glass, rise seven to nine storeys in a architectural style unique on earth. UNESCO listed the old city as World Heritage in 1986. The buildings are maintained by a building tradition passed down through Yemeni craftsmen, using materials and techniques developed over centuries. Yemeni honey — particularly sidr honey, produced from the sidr tree in the Hadramawt and Marib regions — is considered among the finest in the world and commands prices that reflect its quality and scarcity. Yemeni beekeeping has a continuous history of thousands of years. The combination of Yemen's extraordinary botanical diversity — the island of Socotra has been called the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean for its endemic species — and ancient beekeeping practice produces flavours that have no equivalent.