Davud Akhundzada in Seiyun: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Sanaa

Must-try foods in Sanaa

• Saltah
  SaltahWidely regarded as Yemen's national dish, Saltah is a hearty meat stew (usually lamb or beef) base served bubbling in a traditional stone pot called a 'madra'. It is topped with 'hulba'—a frothy, whipped fenugreek foam—and often includes potatoes, scrambled eggs, and 'sahawiq' salsa.
• Fahsa
  FahsaA close relative of Saltah but more meat-centric, Fahsa consists of tender, shredded lamb or veal in a spicy, rich broth. It is served scorching hot in a clay bowl, often accompanied by a dollop of fenugreek foam and fresh 'malooga' bread to scoop up the savory drippings.
• Bint al-Sahn
  Bint al-SahnThis iconic 'Honey Cake' is a celebratory dish made of multiple paper-thin layers of dough brushed with ghee and sprinkled with black nigella seeds. It is baked until golden and flaky, then generously drizzled with high-quality Yemeni Sidr honey before being served warm.
• Mandi
  MandiA traditional dish featuring slow-roasted meat (lamb or chicken) that is cooked in a specialized underground pit (tandoor). The meat becomes incredibly tender and smoky, served over a bed of long-grain basmati rice seasoned with a distinct blend of Yemeni spices and saffron.
• Shafout
  ShafoutA refreshing and unique appetizer or light meal, Shafout consists of layers of 'lahoh' (a spongy, pancake-like flatbread) soaked in a seasoned yogurt or buttermilk sauce. It is typically flavored with garlic, mint, and coriander, and topped with finely chopped fresh vegetables.
• Aseed (Asida)
  Aseed (Asida)A dense, smooth porridge-like dough made from wheat or maize flour. It is a staple comfort food in Sana'a, typically served with a savory lamb broth ('maraq') poured into a well in the center, intended to be eaten with the fingers.

Trip guide

• About Sanaa
  About SanaaSana’a, the capital of Yemen, is a city with documented habitation extending over 2,500 years. Located in a mountain valley at an altitude of 2,200 meters, it was a major center for the propagation of Islam in the 7th and 8th centuries. The Old City was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 and contains over 6,000 houses, 103 mosques, and 14 hammams built before the 11th century.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Sana'a is from October to February, when the dry winter season offers clear skies and mild daytime temperatures around 22°C (72°F). Due to the city's high altitude, nights can be quite cold, often dipping toward 3°C (37°F) in January, so warm layers are essential. While the summer months of July and August are warmer, they bring heavy monsoon rains and potential flash floods, making the winter "peak" period the most practical window for travel.
• Getting around
  Getting around Sanaa

  • Commercial Flights (Limited) Sanaa International Airport (SAH) has extremely restricted operations, primarily serving humanitarian aid and limited commercial flights to Amman.
  • Intercity Bus and Private Car Overland travel from Aden or the Saudi border involves a 10–16 hour drive through numerous military checkpoints. A new unified land port in Sanaa (opened May 2026) serves as a hub for international and long-distance.
  • Local Taxis and Minibuses (Dababs) Within the city, 'dababs' (shared minibuses) follow fixed routes from hubs like Bab al-Yemen. Private taxis are available but rarely use meters; ride-hailing apps like Yango or Careem are the most reliable options for.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Dress conservatively by wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs, and women should carry a headscarf for public spaces.
  • Always use your right hand when eating, offering, or receiving items, as the left hand is traditionally considered impolite for these actions.
  • Avoid photographing women, military personnel, or government buildings to prevent legal complications and respect local privacy norms.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Sanaa

  • Resumption of regional conflict and blockade escalations at Sanaa International Airport.
  • Amazon Waterpark, a new viral leisure destination for families in the Jadir area.