About Yemen
Yemen, a country located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a land with deep historical roots, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions. Its strategic location has made it a significant crossroads for civilizations and trade routes throughout history. Yemen is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the north, Oman to the northeast, the Red Sea to the west, and the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the south, occupying a vital position in the Middle East. The country’s capital, Sana’a, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient architecture and historical significance, while other major cities such as Aden, Taiz, and Mukalla boast a rich historical and cultural heritage.
In ancient times, the region was known as “Arabia Felix” or “Happy Arabia” due to its fertile lands and thriving trade. Yemen was home to powerful kingdoms such as the Sabaeans, famous for the Queen of Sheba, and the Himyarites, who played pivotal roles in the spice trade and left behind engineering marvels such as the ancient Ma’rib Dam. With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Yemen became a key part of the Islamic Caliphate and later saw the rise of influential dynasties such as the Zaydi Imams, who shaped the country’s political and cultural identity.
In the modern era, Yemen underwent significant transformations, most notably its division into North Yemen (the Yemen Arab Republic) and South Yemen (the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen) for much of the 20th century. The two regions united in 1990 to form the Republic of Yemen, yet the country has since faced recurring political unrest and conflicts that continue to challenge its stability.
Yemen’s population is estimated at around 33 to 34 million. Yemenis are known for their resilience and hospitality, sharing a common Arab heritage while also encompassing small minority groups of African, Indian, and Jewish origins. Arabic serves as the official language, and Islam is the predominant faith, with Sunni and Zaydi Shia Muslims forming the two main sects. The country’s cultural traditions—such as its music, oral poetry, and distinctive architecture—form an essential part of its national identity.
Yemen’s 2,000-kilometer coastline along the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea has long been a vital corridor for trade and communication. Its varied geography—mountainous highlands, fertile western landscapes, and arid eastern deserts—mirrors the richness and diversity of its cultural and historical heritage. Despite ongoing conflict and economic hardship, Yemen’s heritage endures through its architecture, traditions, and the enduring spirit of its people.
National Holidays in Yemen:
Unity Day (May 22) Commemorates the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990.
- Revolution Day (September 26) Marks the 1962 revolution that led to the establishment of the Yemen
- Arab Republic. (October 14) Celebrates South Yemen’s revolution against British colonialism in 1963.
- Independence Day (November 30)Marks the end of British rule in South Yemen in 1967.
Yemen retains its identity as a cradle of ancient civilizations and Islamic heritage. With its globally renowned historical architecture, Yemen’s history, geography, and cultural traditions make it a country of unique beauty and significance.