Ibb: The Green Jewel of Yemen

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeرجاء
  [rujaa]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [atharana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injilia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an ara alqa'imat, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahatik]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atsil bialsurata!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atsil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uriidu shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huw thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka takhfid alsiear?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeat?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaeat alwahida]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alsaeat al'ashira walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالظهيرة
  [alzuhaira]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albariha]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureenii (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati alhafalat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tadhkirat (ila...)]

Ibb, often referred to as the 'Green Province' due to its lush landscapes, has a history that dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited as early as the Sabaean and Himyarite periods. These ancient civilizations developed advanced irrigation systems that allowed agriculture to flourish, laying the foundation for Ibb’s future prosperity.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Ibb became an integral part of the Islamic world. The city saw the construction of numerous mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools). The Al-Saleh Mosque, one of the oldest in the region, stands as a testament to the city’s early Islamic architectural heritage.

In the 16th century, Ibb came under Ottoman control. This period saw the introduction of new administrative practices and architectural styles. The remnants of Ottoman influence can still be seen in some of the city’s buildings and infrastructure. The Ottomans also contributed to the fortification of the city, enhancing its strategic importance.

Following the decline of Ottoman power in the 19th century, Ibb came under the rule of the Yemeni Imams. This period was marked by relative stability and the flourishing of cultural and educational institutions. The Imams focused on developing the city's agricultural potential, making it a vital center for the production of coffee and qat.

In the 20th century, Ibb played a significant role in Yemen’s journey towards unification. The city was a hub for nationalist movements and saw significant political activity. After the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990, Ibb became an important administrative and economic center in the newly formed Republic of Yemen.

Ibb is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its traditional music, dance, and artisanal crafts. Festivals such as the annual Ibb Cultural Festival showcase the region’s vibrant traditions. The old souks (markets) of Ibb are a treasure trove of local handicrafts, spices, and textiles, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.

The architecture of Ibb is a blend of various influences, including Islamic, Ottoman, and Yemeni styles. The old city is characterized by narrow, winding streets lined with multi-story buildings made of stone and mud brick. Notable landmarks include the Al-Qahira Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the historic Al-Jabarti House, an example of traditional Yemeni architecture.

Ibb is located in the southwestern part of Yemen. The nearest major airport is Sana'a International Airport (SAH), approximately 190 kilometers north of Ibb. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a private car to Ibb, which typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Public buses and shared taxis (known locally as 'taxis') also operate between Sana'a and Ibb, offering a budget-friendly alternative.

Within Ibb, local taxis and minibuses are the primary modes of transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through local taxi services. Minibuses operate on fixed routes and are a cost-effective way to get around the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, but be aware that driving conditions can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and local driving habits.

The official currency in Yemen is the Yemeni Rial (YER). Cash is the preferred method of payment, especially in small shops, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are available in Ibb, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards. Ensure you have small denominations for convenience, as larger notes can be difficult to break.

While Ibb is generally considered safe for tourists, it's essential to remain vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, so seek advice from locals or your accommodation on which areas to avoid. Always stay updated on current travel advisories related to Yemen.

In case of emergency, dial 199 for police assistance or 191 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Ibb is Al-Thawra Hospital, equipped to handle various medical situations. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies in Ibb can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should avoid shorts, and women should cover their heads and wear long skirts or trousers. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in mosques. Remove your shoes before entering and avoid interrupting prayers. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate to other passengers. Don’t eat or drink in public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). A handshake is common among men; among women, a nod or verbal greeting suffices. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Ibb like a local, visit the traditional souks where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. Engage with locals who are often eager to share their culture and history. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the old city, with its historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere. For a unique experience, visit the Jibla area, home to the Queen Arwa Mosque and other historical sites.