UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yemen

Yemen UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Yemen have resulted in recognizing of 4 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yemen and 9 locations on the Yemen UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Yemen are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to these 4 sites in the Yemen UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel in Yemen that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Yemen tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Yemen.

Yemen UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

Yemen UNESCO Map Placeholder
Yemen UNESCO Map

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yemen

There are 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yemen. All of these four sites are listed under the Cultural category.

  • Old Walled City of Shibam
  • Old City of Sana’a
  • Historic Town of Zabid
  • Socotra Archipelago

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Yemen are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Old Walled City of Shibam

The Old Walled City of Shibam is a 16th-century city in Yemen known for its iconic tower houses that rise from the desert. It is considered one of the earliest examples of urban planning based on the principle of vertical construction. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique architecture.

Old City of Sana’a

The Old City of Sana’a, located in Yemen, is a well-preserved example of an ancient Islamic city. Its history dates back to the 7th century; it is known for its stunning tower houses, elaborate stone and mud brick buildings, and traditional souks. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich history and unique architecture.

Historic Town of Zabid

The Historic Town of Zabid is a well-preserved example of an ancient Islamic town in Yemen. It was essential as a cultural and intellectual center in the Islamic world from the 13th to the 15th century. Zabid is known for its impressive architectural heritage, including the Great Mosque and numerous private houses, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich cultural heritage.

Socotra Archipelago

Socotra Archipelago, located off the coast of Yemen, is a unique natural paradise of four islands. It is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, with over 700 species of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Its breathtaking natural beauty has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an important haven for biodiversity in the region.

Also read:

Yemen UNESCO tentative list

  1. The historic city of Saada
  2. The Historic City of Thula
  3. The Madrasa Amiriya of Rada
  4. Jibla and its surroundings
  5. Jabal Haraz
  6. Jabal Bura
  7. Balhaf/Burum coastal area
  8. The Hawf Area
  9. Sharma/Jethmun coastal area

Tours in Yemen

Our choices of tours in Yemen are divided into thematic features such as Old Walled City of Shibam, Old City of Sana’a, Historic Town of Zabid, and the Socotra Archipelago Experience.