Zabid Travel Guide

Discover the stunning historic town of Zabid, Yemen. Our travel guide provides insider tips on what to see, do, eat and where to stay in Zabid.


Introduction to Zabid

Zabid is a UNESCO world heritage site in the Tihama region of Yemen, about 150 km southwest of the capital, Sanaa. The town served as a center of Islamic learning and became an important commercial center in the 16th century. Today, visitors can admire the well-preserved historic architecture, visit museums, sample local cuisine, and participate in outdoor adventures in the surrounding area.

List of Places to Visit in Zabid

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Al-Mahweet Museum: This museum is housed in a former palace and exhibits displays of traditional Yemeni architecture, art, and jewelry.

  2. Dar Al-Hajar: This former palace is now a museum and is known for its unique architecture.

  3. Great Mosque of Zabid: This UNESCO-listed mosque is one of the oldest in Yemen and represents the town’s importance as a center of Islamic learning.

Natural Attractions of Zabid: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Wadi Zabid: This dry river valley offers spectacular landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sand dunes, and palm trees.

  2. Haraz Mountains: The mountain range that borders Zabid offers great hiking and scenic views of the surrounding valleys and villages.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Zabid

  1. Jabal Al-Rawga: This moderate to challenging hike takes you through stunning, unspoiled terrain, including ancient ruins, olive groves, and breathtaking panoramas.

  2. Ride the Wadis: Mountain biking is popular in the Tihama region, and several rental companies offer tours through the wadis, where you can enjoy stunning views and hidden swimming holes.

Best Things to Do in Zabid: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Souq Al-Silah: This lively market offers a glimpse into everyday life in Zabid and is an excellent place to shop for traditional Yemeni crafts and textiles.

  2. Take a guided walking tour: Hire a guide to take you on a walk around the town and point out the historic landmarks and buildings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zabid

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Zabid, visit the Great Mosque of Zabid and Dar Al-Hajar museum
2 Hiking in Jabal Al-Rawga and picnic near the ruins
3 Visit the Al-Mahweet Museum and Souq Al-Silah
4 Guided walking tour of Zabid with lunch at a local restaurant
5 Day trip to Taiz to visit the famous citadel and museum
6 Mountain biking tour of the wadis and dinner at a traditional Yemeni restaurant
7 Departure from Zabid

Food and Drink Scene of Zabid

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Saltah: This national dish of Yemen is essentially a stew made with meat, vegetables, beans, and a tangy sauce. It is typically served with bread.

  2. Zabib: This famous dessert is made by drying grapes in the sun and then boiling them with honey and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Qishr: This traditional Yemeni drink is a type of tea made with ginger and coffee husks. It is usually served in tiny cups and is a popular morning drink.

  2. Sharbat: This refreshing drink is made with fruit and sugar syrup.

Where to Stay in Zabid: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Dar Al-Saeed Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, simple rooms in a traditional Yemeni-style building.

  2. Beit Al-Wali Hotel: This historic hotel is housed in a 16th-century palace and offers large, comfortable rooms and a peaceful courtyard.

What to Buy in Zabid: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Yemeni textiles: The souq is an excellent place to shop for colorful scarves, shawls, and clothing made from locally produced cotton and silk.

  2. Silver jewelry: Yemen is known for its intricate, silver filigree jewelry, and many shops in Zabid sell pieces made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Zabid

Yemen is a conservative Muslim country, and visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs. Women should cover their hair and arms and avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. Alcoholic beverages are not typically served, and visitors should not drink alcohol in public.

Best Time to Visit Zabid

The best time to visit Zabid is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. Summer temperatures can be hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zabid

Do:

  1. Hire a guide to learn more about the history and culture of the town.

  2. Eat at local restaurants and sample traditional Yemeni cuisine.

Don’t:

  1. Take photos of people without asking permission first.

  2. Bring alcohol into the town or drink it in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zabid

Yemen has experienced political instability and conflict in recent years, making travel to certain areas of the country unsafe. Visitors should check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip to Zabid.

Health in Zabid

Visitors should ensure they have up to date vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Drinking tap water in Yemen is not advised, and visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid eating uncooked foods.

Getting to Zabid: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zabid

The nearest airport to Zabid is in Hodeidah, around 60 km away.

Bus Stations Near Zabid

Buses run regularly between Sanaa and Zabid, and visitors can also catch shared taxis or private cars.

Other Options

Private transportation is widely available in Yemen, and visitors can hire a driver or rent a car to travel around the country.

How to Get Around in Zabid

The best way to get around Zabid is on foot, as the town is compact and easy to navigate. Taxis and private cars can be hired for longer journeys, and mountain bikes are available for hire from several rental companies.

Where to Go Next from Zabid: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Taiz: The historic city of Taiz is a great day trip from Zabid and is known for its impressive citadel and bustling souq.

  2. Hodeidah: This coastal city is famous for its beaches and is a popular place to surf and swim.

Conclusion

Zabid is a hidden gem in Yemen and is well worth a visit for its stunning historic architecture, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs and textiles, and learn about the town’s rich history and culture. With careful planning and preparation, Zabid is a safe and rewarding destination for travelers in the Middle East.

Zabid mosque Zabid mosque