Yemeni

Yemeni refers to anything related to Yemen, including its people, language, culture, and national identity. Yemen is a country at the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia to the north and Oman to the east, with coastlines along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The population is predominantly Arab and regional identities and traditions vary across the country’s highlands, coast, and southern areas.

The principal language is Yemeni Arabic, a collection of dialects within the broader Gulf Arabic continuum. Modern Standard Arabic is used in media and official settings. Smaller languages such as Mehri, Soqotri, and other South Arabian languages are spoken by minority communities, particularly in remote areas and among specific tribal groups.

Historically, Yemen was divided into the Yemen Arab Republic in the north and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen in the south, which unified in 1990 to form the Republic of Yemen. Since 2014–2015, the country has faced a prolonged conflict and humanitarian crisis, with various domestic and international actors involved. The situation has caused widespread displacement, poverty, and food insecurity.

Culturally, Yemen is known for its distinctive music, poetry, cuisine, and craftsmanship. Historic architecture, such as the tower houses of Sana’a and other ancient cities, reflects long-standing urban traditions. Yemeni dress varies by region, with men commonly wearing traditional garments and belts featuring a jambiya, a ceremonial dagger; women’s dress ranges by area and custom. The overwhelming majority of Yemenis are Muslim, with Zaidi Shia communities in the north and Sunni communities in other regions.