The last decade or so has been a period of civil war and general instability in Yemen. With this background, now seems a good time to share a photo-journal taken in Saana before the events unfolded.

In 2009, I was fortunate to be asked to participate in a trip to Yemen with a group of photographers from Dubai. The trip was sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism of Yemen to create visual content to promote Yemen as a tourist destination, something that may appear strange in view of recent events there. At the time there was renewed hope of growth and stability for the country. As per my experience I saw a lot of untapped tourism potential in the most undeveloped country in the Middle East.  In return for joining the trip, my contribution was to print a photographic exhibition to be inaugurated in Dubai and thereafter rotate around various target markets to promote the destination. 

Enjoy this photo-walk of this fascinating city of which so little is known.

The street scenes show a generally young and friendly population, who are proud to welcome foreigners to their country. 

The traditional architecture of the city is quite striking at first. A reminder that this was the first place to build traditional skyscrapers! Coming from super modern Dubai, one is struck by how traditional city life can be here. A family climbing out of a taxi are a reminder of how old can always remain useful. 

Children prove to be resourceful and enterprising using a wheelbarrow as a mobile shop (and shade awning!). Everyone seems to have something to sell, and there is space for everyone. Young men are proud of their motorcycle, like anywhere in the world. Sometimes we would meet tribesmen who came to town from the mountains to find opportunity. 

Everyone has something to sell, and often without an investment of any kind. A very positive spirit of enterprise all around.

Four men on a motorbike is the most I have seen anywhere! Boys messing around showing off their muscles. Young (and proud) man on his customised bike: a new use for sheepskin! Young teenage girl in the Jewish quarter looking fashion conscious (and liberal) by local standards.

Doorways are generally very low and a reminder that the average adult height used to be a lot less than now.

The traditional architecture remains fascinating and was clearly so far ahead of its time in terms of urban planning. Wooden window structures protruding from the façade allow women to see the street without being seen. A star of David on a building in the Musa (Moses) district is a reminder of how the country was a mix religions in more peaceful days.