Shopping is something that intrigues everyone and something that is loved by almost everyone. Barring a few scarce people, everyone loves shopping and is always on the lookout for good places to shop at. This merriment of shopping scales up to new levels when you are visiting a new city or even a country like Yemen. In the case of Yemen, a country having immense historical and cultural importance, you can hardly keep yourself off the markets and places for shopping in Yemen that offers a variety of products!.
As RocApply we understand how vital it is for you to have a steady shopping lifestyle in a foreign land! Yemen has an ongoing tradition of handcrafts that are practical, beautiful, and also make for great souvenirs. Popular products include woven textiles such as tapestries, sweaters, ponchos, and shawls. These days, indigenous and other artisans sell a wide range of handiwork comprising ethnic jewelry, masks, wood and stone carvings, blankets, and hammocks here. There are stalls every day, but Saturday is the optimal time to shop.
Nearly every Yemeni region, town, and the village has some sort of shopping, usually in the form of a souq. Souks are attractions by themselves, and ideal places for foreigners to learn the culture, language, and customs of the country all in one go. Souqs can run daily, weekly, or seasonally. The jambiya-curved dagger, which is worn mostly by men, is the most sought-out item among foreigners and can be purchased on its own or with a case. Handmade belts and items made of silver can also be seen in many souqs across the country. Jewelry made from gold and semi-precious stones is favored among female tourists.
Souk al-Milh
This is the biggest souk in the country and perhaps even the entire Arabian Peninsula. It can be found in the heart of the capital and although its name translates to ‘Salt Market’, there is more than just salt sold there. There are around thirty specialized souqs, including souqs of fabrics, gold, spices, artisans, and Yemeni pearls. Be prepared to barter but don't expect a drastic reduction in the original asking price when doing so.
Jambiya
This is a short curved dagger that is worn by men as an accessory and is of great symbolic representation in the country. Different brands manufacture jambiya, with the cost varying depending on the brand. Brands are inclined to the material in which the dagger is made from as well as the quality and the design. The handle is the most significant part of the dagger, with the safari handle being the most known and most expensive. The more elaborate the sheath, the more costly the dagger.
"I enjoy shopping and I found it affordable but some of the clothes are definitely not of the highest quality." - Hassan from Turkey
