Yemen

Yemen is located in the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula and is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the north, Oman to the east, the Red Sea to the west, and the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea to the south. Covering approximately 528,000 square kilometers, Yemen possesses one of the most diverse physical landscapes in the Middle East. The country includes narrow coastal plains, rugged mountain ranges, high plateaus, and extensive desert areas that merge into the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) in the northeast. The western highlands contain some of the highest mountains in Arabia, including Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb, which rises to about 3,666 meters above sea level. Unlike many countries on the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen receives relatively higher rainfall in its mountainous regions, creating favorable conditions for agriculture. However, rainfall is highly variable, and much of the country experiences arid or semi-arid climatic conditions.

Agriculture has historically been a cornerstone of Yemeni society and remains an important source of livelihood, particularly in rural areas. Due to the country's mountainous terrain, farmers have developed extensive terrace farming systems that reduce soil erosion and maximize the use of limited arable land. The main food crops include sorghum, millet, wheat, maize, barley, and various legumes. Fruits and vegetables are widely cultivated in the highlands and irrigated valleys, including grapes, pomegranates, mangoes, bananas, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. Coffee originated in Yemen and has historically been one of the country's most famous agricultural products, particularly from the highland regions. However, coffee production has declined relative to the cultivation of qat (khat), a stimulant leaf crop that occupies a substantial portion of agricultural land and water resources. Livestock farming, including goats, sheep, cattle, and camels, also contributes significantly to rural livelihoods and food security.

Forestry resources in Yemen are relatively limited because of the country's predominantly arid climate. Natural vegetation consists mainly of drought-resistant shrubs, acacia woodlands, and scattered forests in higher rainfall mountain areas. Notable tree species include acacia, juniper, and dragon's blood trees on the island of Socotra, which is internationally recognized for its unique biodiversity and high level of endemism. Forests and woodlands provide fuelwood, fodder, medicinal plants, and materials for rural communities. However, deforestation, overgrazing, fuelwood collection, and land degradation have reduced vegetation cover in many areas. Soil erosion is a major environmental concern, particularly on steep mountain slopes where natural vegetation has been removed. Conservation efforts focus on watershed protection, reforestation, and the preservation of unique ecosystems such as those found on Socotra.

The fishery sector is one of Yemen's most valuable natural-resource industries. The country has an extensive coastline of more than 2,000 kilometers along the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea, providing access to highly productive marine ecosystems. Fisheries contribute significantly to employment, food security, and export earnings. Important commercial species include tuna, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, lobster, and cuttlefish. Artisanal fishing dominates the sector and supports thousands of coastal households, although industrial fishing activities are also present. Yemen's marine waters are among the richest fishing grounds in the Arabian region due to nutrient-rich currents and diverse coastal habitats, including coral reefs and mangrove ecosystems. However, the sector faces challenges such as overfishing, illegal fishing by foreign vessels, inadequate infrastructure, and the impacts of political instability and conflict. Sustainable fisheries management and investment in processing and transportation infrastructure are considered essential for the sector's long-term development.

Overall, Yemen's geography is distinguished by its mountainous highlands, coastal plains, and desert regions, creating diverse environmental conditions that support a range of agricultural and economic activities. Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries remain vital to livelihoods and food security, particularly in rural communities. Nevertheless, water scarcity, land degradation, climate variability, and ongoing political and economic challenges place significant pressure on natural resources, making sustainable resource management crucial for the country's future development and resilience.

In November 2013 Gerold was three days in Sana'a and adjacent areas. To get the visa was already very difficult, then very unpleasant feeling to walk through the city. A rain shower at the departure day made the whole streets impassable. On departure Gerold had to buy a ticket for Riyadh because mine were not accepted. I was glad to be out again. The civil war was everywhere observable and the coming war with Saudi Arabia in the air.