Yemen, officially the Republic of Yemen, is located on the Arabian Peninsula in Southwest Asia. With a population of over 34 million, Yemen is bordered by Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and Oman. Its capital city, Sana’a, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Yemen stands as the only republic on the Arabian Peninsula, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition.
A Glimpse into History: Yemen’s history stretches back to ancient times, known for its involvement in the lucrative trade of myrrh and frankincense. It was home to the Minaean and Sabaean kingdoms, followed by Roman, Ethiopian, and Persian invasions. In 628 A.D., Yemen embraced Islam, and later the Rassite dynasty played a pivotal role in its governance. The country remained under Ottoman control until their empire’s decline in 1918. Modern Yemen was formed in 1990 when North Yemen and South Yemen unified after centuries of division.
Geography, Environment, & Climate: Yemen occupies the southwestern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It is about the size of France and offers diverse geography, from coastal plains to mountainous highlands. The central highlands enjoy a temperate climate, while coastal areas can be extremely hot, especially during summer.
In terms of weather, the best time to visit the coastal areas is between November and February, while the highlands offer comfortable temperatures year-round. The monsoons bring occasional rain, with heavier rainfall in the southwest.
Population: Yemen is home to around 40.8 million people, most of whom are settled in villages and towns. The country’s population is predominantly Muslim, divided into two sects: the Shia Zaidi sect in the north and northwest and the Sunni Shafa’i sect in the south and southeast. Arabic is the official language, though English is spoken in major cities.
Currency: The official currency in Yemen is the Yemeni Riyal (YR). While larger cities and international services may accept foreign currencies or cards, it’s advisable to carry local currency for daily transactions.
Living as an Expat: Housing, Transportation, and Daily Life: Living as an expat in Yemen offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. In cities like Sana’a, housing is relatively easy to find, with large, well-maintained homes featuring unique architectural details such as beautiful stained-glass windows (camerias) and intricate stucco designs. Most landlords expect advance payments for six months to a year, so it’s wise to inspect the property thoroughly before signing a contract, especially paying attention to plumbing issues, which can be a common challenge.
For those living in Yemen, be prepared for a slower pace of life, where family traditions and cultural practices, like qat chewing sessions, play a significant role. Expats can expect a warm welcome from the local population, though it’s important to be mindful of local customs.
Getting There & Around: Most international flights arrive at Sana’a International Airport, while some airlines also serve Aden. Land travel from neighboring countries is possible, though border procedures can be time-consuming. Once in Yemen, buses provide safe and reliable transportation between major towns. Car hire is also available in larger cities like Sana’a, but make sure you’re prepared for local driving conditions and ensure all paperwork is in order if crossing the border by land.