Dhamar: The Ancient Heart of Yemen

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeرجاء
  [rujaa]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• 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 alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [inasraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bilshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriid 'an 'ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat 'ataatala]
• How much is it?كم سعرها؟
  [kam si'raha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsi'ra?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahida]
• Half past (10)نصف العاشرة
  [nisf alaashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisa'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

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

Dhamar's history stretches back to antiquity, where it was a significant center during the Himyarite Kingdom, which thrived from approximately 110 BCE to 525 CE. The region was known for its advanced agricultural techniques and impressive irrigation systems. Archaeological findings suggest that Dhamar played a crucial role in the trade routes linking South Arabia with the Mediterranean world.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Dhamar, like much of Yemen, saw significant changes. The city became an important hub for Islamic scholarship and culture. The spread of Islam brought new architectural styles, with mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools) springing up, many of which still stand as testaments to this period.

During the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire extended its reach into Yemen, including Dhamar. This period was marked by a blend of local traditions with Ottoman influences, evident in the architecture and urban planning of the city. The Ottomans built fortifications and administrative buildings, many of which have become historical landmarks.

From the 17th century until the early 20th century, Dhamar was part of the Zaydi Imamate, a theocratic state ruled by Imams of the Zaydi sect of Shia Islam. This era saw the flourishing of religious and educational institutions, cementing Dhamar's reputation as a center for Islamic learning. The region also witnessed significant agricultural development and trade.

The 20th century brought profound changes to Dhamar as Yemen transitioned from the Imamate to a republic in 1962. Dhamar played a notable role in the Yemeni revolution and subsequent civil wars. In recent decades, the city has faced challenges including political instability and natural disasters, but it remains a vibrant center of Yemeni culture and history.

Dhamar is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Yemeni architecture, vibrant markets, and handicrafts. The city is also famous for its unique customs, traditional dances like the Bara'a, and its contributions to Yemeni music. Festivals and religious celebrations continue to play a significant role in the life of Dhamar's inhabitants.

Dhamar is located about 100 kilometers south of Yemen's capital, Sana'a. The nearest international airport is Sana'a International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use private car services to reach Dhamar. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance through your hotel or a trusted travel agency.

Once in Dhamar, local transportation options include taxis and minibuses. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transport and can be hired for short trips within the city or for day trips to nearby attractions. Minibuses (known locally as 'saraweh') are a more economical option and operate on fixed routes. Renting a car is also an option, though driving in Yemen can be challenging due to road conditions and traffic laws.

The official currency in Yemen is the Yemeni Rial (YER). Cash is the primary mode of payment, and it is advisable to carry sufficient cash as credit cards are seldom accepted outside major hotels and some upscale restaurants. ATMs are available in Dhamar, but it is wise to withdraw enough cash in Sana'a before traveling to Dhamar. Ensure you have small denominations for easier transactions.

Dhamar is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and stay away from poorly lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. Certain areas in Yemen are known for higher crime rates and political instability, so it is advisable to stay updated on travel advisories and avoid travel to these regions. Always travel with a local guide or in a group.

In case of an emergency, dial 199 for police assistance and 191 for medical emergencies. Dhamar has local police stations and medical facilities available. It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a hand over your heart or a slight bow. Handshakes are common but avoid physical contact with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Dhamar like a local, visit the traditional markets (souks) where you can buy fresh produce and local handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient ruins and historical sites, such as the Himyarite Kingdom remains. For a unique experience, attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in Yemeni culture.