The Timeless Charm of Al-Hajjarah Village

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathir]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kaifa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhair. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al ingiliyziya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakol al lah'm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!إبتعد!
  [ibtad!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialsurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atasil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalet altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود شراء...
  [awad shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam si'rh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh alsi'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al saa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsa'a alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al'ashir walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [alzuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn hu/hyi...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'unaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni ('ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirat ('iilaa ....)]

Al-Hajjarah Village, nestled in the Haraz Mountains, is an ancient settlement believed to date back to the pre-Islamic period. Its strategic location on the trade routes and fertile grounds made it a vital hub for early civilizations in the region.

During the Islamic era, Al-Hajjarah flourished as a center of learning and commerce. The village became renowned for its fortified architecture, built to protect inhabitants from invasions and raids. The rise of the Sulayhid dynasty in the 11th century further boosted the village’s prominence.

In the 16th century, Al-Hajjarah came under Ottoman rule. The Ottomans introduced new architectural styles and administrative changes that left a lasting impact on the village. The remnants of Ottoman influence can still be observed in the village's buildings and local governance structures.

The early 20th century was a period of significant upheaval for Al-Hajjarah, as Yemen sought independence from Ottoman rule. The village played a crucial role in the resistance movements, with its strategic location providing a stronghold for local fighters.

Today, Al-Hajjarah stands as a testament to Yemen's rich history and cultural heritage. Its unique stone houses, narrow streets, and stunning mountain views attract visitors from around the world. Efforts to preserve its historical structures and traditions are ongoing, ensuring that the legacy of Al-Hajjarah continues to be celebrated.

Al-Hajjarah Village is located in the Haraz Mountains, about 110 kilometers west of Sana'a, the capital of Yemen. The nearest airport is Sana'a International Airport. From Sana'a, you can hire a taxi or a private car to the village. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours by road. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance through a reputable travel agency.

Within Al-Hajjarah Village, most attractions are accessible on foot, given the village's compact size. For travel to nearby areas, hiring a local guide with a vehicle is recommended. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is the most reliable method for getting around.

The official currency in Yemen is the Yemeni Rial (YER). It is important to carry cash, as credit cards are rarely accepted, especially in rural areas like Al-Hajjarah. ATMs are limited, so ensure you withdraw sufficient cash in Sana'a before heading to the village.

While Al-Hajjarah Village itself is generally considered safe, Yemen as a whole has regions with high levels of political instability and conflict. It is crucial to stay updated on the current security situation and travel advisories from your home country. Avoid traveling alone at night and keep a low profile. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergency, the local emergency number is 199 for police and 191 for medical services. The nearest medical facilities are in Sana'a, so it is advisable to have a well-stocked first aid kit and any necessary medications with you. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should cover their heads, and both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs, including prayer times and fasting periods during Ramadan. Public Transport: Do be respectful of local customs and avoid public displays of affection. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you). Eating & Drinking: Do accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't eat with your left hand, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Al-Hajjarah Village like a local, consider staying in a traditional mud-brick house. Engage with the villagers, who are often willing to share stories and local history. Visit the local market to buy handmade crafts and traditional Yemeni clothing. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the terraced fields and ancient fortifications that offer stunning views of the Haraz Mountains.