Yemen

Yemen is a land of ancient civilizations, dramatic landscapes, and unique architecture. Despite current travel advisories, Yemen remains one of the most historically rich and culturally fascinating places in the Arabian Peninsula. 🌍📜

Old City of Sana’a

Why Visit?
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world with unique mud-brick skyscrapers.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🏘️ Tower houses with intricate windows and carvings

  • 🕌 Great Mosque of Sana’a – Dating back to the 7th century

  • 🛍️ Bab al-Yemen Market – Traditional souqs and handmade goods

  • 🧱 UNESCO World Heritage Site

Socotra Island

Why Visit?
Known as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean”, this remote island has surreal biodiversity found nowhere else.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🌳 Dragon Blood Trees – Iconic and otherworldly

  • 🏖️ Detwah Lagoon – White sand beaches and turquoise waters

  • 🐠 Snorkeling & diving – Coral reefs and marine life

  • 🦋 Endemic wildlife – Rare plants, birds, and butterflies

Shibam

Why Visit?
A spectacular example of ancient urban planning, Shibam is famous for its vertical mud-brick buildings.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🏙️ 500-year-old skyscrapers made of mud

  • 🏰 City walls & ancient gates

  • 🕌 Historic mosques and alleyways

  • 📸 Stunning desert photography

Al-Mahwit

Why Visit?
A mountainous region with incredible views and traditional architecture.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🌄 Mountain landscapes & terraced farms

  • 🏘️ Stone houses perched on cliffs

  • 🌧️ Cooler climate & greenery

  • 🧭 Off-the-beaten-path travel charm

Jabal Haraz

Why Visit?
A UNESCO-listed area with ancient hilltop villages, lush terraces, and breathtaking views.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🏞️ Al-Hajjarah Village – Famous for its dramatic cliffside setting

  • 🌿 Terraced farming landscapes

  • 🧱 Traditional stone architecture

  • 📸 Perfect for cultural and nature photography

Thula

Why Visit?
A well-preserved town showcasing Yemen’s medieval architecture and traditional crafts.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🧱 Stone houses and mosques

  • 🛍️ Local markets with pottery and textiles

  • 🏞️ Mountain backdrop

  • 🌄 Quiet, peaceful atmosphere

Tarim

Why Visit?
Known for Islamic learning and beautiful white-washed mosques.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🕌 Al-Muhdhar Mosque – Yemen’s tallest minaret

  • 📚 Historic Islamic schools and libraries

  • 🕋 Pilgrimage destination for scholars

  • 🧕 Traditional Hadrami culture

Zabid

Why Visit?
A historic city with ancient mosques and a long-standing scholarly legacy.

🎯 Highlights:

  • 🕌 Over 80 ancient mosques

  • 🏛️ Islamic manuscripts and heritage sites

  • 📖 Former university town

  • 🧭 UNESCO World Heritage (endangered)