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Yemen

Yemen is a country located at the southern end of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia, known for its ancient history and rich cultural heritage that includes the old city of Sana'a, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has been mired in conflict since 2014, leading to a major humanitarian crisis with widespread hunger and disease.

Despite its abundant historical sites and beautiful landscapes, Yemen's economy struggles due to the ongoing conflict, political instability, and limited natural resources.

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  • "Salam Alaikum" - Peace be upon you
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Afwan" - You're welcome
  • "Inshallah" - God willing
  • "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye

Prices in Yemen

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25

Highlights

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Diverse landscapes, including mountains and coastline
  • Strategic location along key maritime trade routes
  • Unique traditional architecture, particularly in cities like Sana'a and Shibam
  • Strong sense of community and hospitality among the local population
  • Ongoing civil conflict leading to humanitarian crises
  • High levels of poverty and unemployment
  • Limited access to healthcare and education
  • Infrastructure challenges and lack of basic services
  • Environmental issues, including water scarcity and desertification

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Explore Sana'a

morning

:

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Sana'a, where you can admire the unique architecture. Don't miss the Great Mosque of Sana'a, one of the oldest mosques in the world.

afternoon

:

Enjoy local Yemeni cuisine for lunch at a traditional restaurant. Afterward, explore the bustling souks and shop for handicrafts and spices.

evening

:

Relax at a cafe while sipping on traditional qishr coffee. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as the city lights up for the night.

day 2

Adventure in Wadi Dhahr

morning

:

Take a scenic drive to Wadi Dhahr, famous for its stunning landscapes and the Dar al-Hajar palace. Walk around the area to take in the natural beauty.

afternoon

:

Try hiking in the surrounding hills for breathtaking views of the valley. Have a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque scenery.

evening

:

Return to Sana'a and enjoy a traditional Yemeni meal at a local restaurant. Spend the evening reflecting on the day's adventures.

Explore Day Plans

Attractions in Yemen

Visit one of these nice places.

Socotra Island

Known for its unique biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and white sandy beaches, offering great photo opportunities.

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Old Sana'a

Features beautiful traditional architecture, unique skyline, and bustling markets, perfect for capturing the essence of Yemeni culture.

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Al-Mahwit

Boasts high mountains, terraced fields, and traditional Yemeni villages, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

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Is it safe in Yemen

The safety situation in the region has been severely impacted by a prolonged conflict that began in 2014, leading to widespread violence and humanitarian crises. Ongoing hostilities between various factions have resulted in significant risks for civilians, including airstrikes, ground fighting, and the use of landmines. The country faces a dire humanitarian emergency, with millions displaced and lacking access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical care. The healthcare infrastructure has been weakened, making it difficult for those in need to receive proper treatment. Additionally, the security situation is compounded by threats from terrorist groups operating within the region, making certain areas particularly perilous. Crime rates, including theft and violence, have also increased in the context of economic instability and widespread unemployment. International organizations often raise concerns about human rights abuses, with reports of arbitrary detention, torture, and attacks on civilians. Travel to the area is highly discouraged due to safety risks, and those who do visit are advised to take stringent precautions. Overall, the safety environment remains deeply unstable and dangerous for both residents and visitors.

Yemen's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mandi

Mandi is a tantalizing dish made with seasoned rice and slow-cooked meat, typically chicken or lamb. It is flavored with a distinctive blend of spices and often cooked in a tandoor oven, resulting in tender, flavorful meat and fragrant rice. To savor authentic Mandi, head to restaurants or local eateries in major cities like Sana'a and Aden.

Must-Try!

Saltah

Saltah is a hearty, stew-like dish that showcases Yemeni flavors at their best. It combines a rich meat broth with vegetables, fenugreek paste, and a dollop of savory fenugreek-based sauce called 'holba'. Enjoy Saltah at traditional Yemeni restaurants across the country, where it's often served with freshly baked bread.

Fahsa

Fahsa is a delightful spicy stew made from shredded lamb or beef, cooked with a fiery blend of chili peppers, garlic, and tomato sauce. It's a beloved dish in Yemen, especially in the region of Taiz, and is commonly found in local eateries and family-owned restaurants.

Things To Do in Yemen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Socotra Archipelago

Explore unique landscapes and biodiversity in the Socotra Archipelago, including Dragon's Blood Trees and stunning sand dunes.

Snorkeling in the Red Sea

Discover vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling in the Red Sea.

Camping in the Haraz Mountains

Experience breathtaking views, rugged landscapes, and traditional villages while camping in the Haraz Mountains.

Weather in Yemen

The climate in Yemen is characterized by a range of conditions due to its varied topography, which includes coastal plains, mountainous regions, and arid deserts. The country experiences a predominantly arid and semi-arid climate. In the coastal areas along the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea, temperatures can be quite high, particularly in summer, with highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The coastal regions have a humid climate, which can exacerbate the heat during the summer months. Winters in these areas are milder, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The western highlands, which include the capital, Sana'a, enjoy a more moderate climate due to their elevation. Here, temperatures are cooler, and the region experiences more rainfall, particularly during the summer monsoon season. Rainfall is typically concentrated from June to September, with July being the peak month. In contrast, the eastern desert regions, such as the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), are extremely arid with minimal precipitation and high temperatures during the day, especially in summer. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly in these areas. Overall, Yemen’s climate is influenced by its geography, including altitude and proximity to bodies of water, leading to significant regional variations in weather patterns, temperatures, and precipitation.

How To Behave in Yemen

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Elders

In Yemen, it is important to show respect to the elderly and address them using formal titles to demonstrate courtesy and honor.

Gender Segregation

One should be mindful of gender segregation norms in Yemen, especially in public spaces and social gatherings, where men and women may be expected to socialize separately.

Hospitality

Yemenis value hospitality and may offer guests food and drinks as a gesture of welcome. It is polite to accept the offerings and express gratitude.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Yemen, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or necessary to tip at restaurants or for services.

Payment

In Yemen, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit card acceptance may be limited, especially outside of major cities. It is advisable to carry enough local currency for daily expenses.

Nightlife in Yemen

Nightlife in Yemen is relatively subdued compared to many other countries, reflecting its conservative culture and Islamic traditions. The social scene is predominantly centered around family gatherings and traditional activities. Coffeehouses, or "maqha," play a significant role in Yemeni social life, where friends and family come together to drink coffee or tea, chew qat, and engage in lively conversation. Public entertainment options such as bars, nightclubs, and discos are virtually non-existent due to the country's strict laws regarding alcohol and its emphasis on modesty and religious practices. Instead, evenings might be spent attending cultural events, such as poetry readings, musical performances featuring traditional Yemeni instruments like the oud and qanbus, or local festivals that celebrate the nation's rich heritage. In urban areas like Sana'a and Aden, there are some modern cafes and restaurants where the younger population might gather, though these are generally low-key settings. Shopping malls and markets, or "souqs," also remain open into the evening, offering a place for people to stroll, shop, and enjoy a meal from local vendors. Overall, nightlife in Yemen is characterized by its focus on socializing within the bounds of cultural and religious norms, creating a unique and community-oriented atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Yemen

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Best time to visit as the weather is mild and dry. The landscape is in full bloom with colorful flowers.

Autumn (September to October)

Another favorable time with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Good for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Very hot and dry, especially in low-lying areas. Not recommended for travel due to the extreme heat.

Winter (December to February)

Mild temperatures but can be rainy, especially in coastal regions. Some areas may experience cooler temperatures.

Accomodations in Yemen

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yemen.

Hotels Apartments

Continue exploring Yemen

Discover local cities, attractions and more!

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