Yemeni Coffee: History and Fame

Historically, Yemen has been associated with coffee for centuries, particularly with the city of Mocha, which represented the starting point for the fame of this beverage locally and globally. Yemeni coffee is known in many cultures as “Mocha,” referring to the port of Mocha, which was a hub for coffee exports.

Origin of the Coffee Tree:

The coffee tree is evergreen, reaching heights of approximately 4.5 to 6 meters, with deep roots and soft leaves. Coffee is used as a hot or cold beverage, prized for its stimulating effect due to its caffeine content.

Origin and History of Coffee:

Opinions vary regarding the origin of the coffee tree and its wild existence. Some believe it originated in the Arabian Peninsula and was transported to Ethiopia. Some suggest that coffee first appeared wild in the Kaffa region of southern Ethiopia, while others propose that it was likely brought to Ethiopia from Yemen due to environmental similarities between the two countries.

Yemeni Connection to Coffee:

It is believed that Yemenis became acquainted with the coffee tree in the early 5th century AD when it was planted in the Al-Dain region. Some accounts credit the Arab physician Al-Razi as the first to mention Yemeni coffee in 900 AD.

Agricultural and Commercial Development:

Coffee cultivation in Yemen has witnessed significant development since the Middle Ages, making Yemeni coffee a prominent symbol of high quality. Yemeni coffee became synonymous with the port of Mocha, renowned for its high quality, and was traded to several countries.

Coffee Growing Regions:

Coffee shrubs thrive in various regions of Yemen, including Sana’a, Hajjah, Al-Dain, Yafi, due to the considerable similarity in climatic conditions between these areas.

Coffee Varieties Cultivated in Yemen:

Yemen cultivates three varieties of coffee known as the Al-Daini, Tufahi, and Dwayri, named after the regions where they are cultivated, such as Al-Hamadi, Al-Yafi, Al-Burai, Al-Harazi, Al-Mutri, and Al-Haimi.