📖 About Aden

Aden is a historic port city on the north coast of the Gulf of Aden, approximately 170 km east of the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. With a population of 1.15 million, it serves as a crucial maritime gateway connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Its strategic location between the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea has made it desirable to rulers throughout history.

Known as "Eudaemon" (meaning "blissful, prosperous") in the 1st century BC, Aden was a vital transshipping point for Red Sea trade. The city has its earliest recorded mention in the Old Testament's Book of Ezekiel as a trading partner of Tyre. Along with Canneh, it was one of the principal termini of the spice road of western Arabia.

As of 2025, Aden serves as Yemen's de facto temporary capital, with the government having relocated here after Houthi rebels captured Sanaa in 2015. The port remains operational, continuing its millennia-long role as a commercial crossroads despite the challenges of recent years.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Aden's economy has historically been centered on its strategic port. The city flourished during British rule as a major coaling station for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. When the Suez Canal was open, Aden served as a crucial stopover point. Today, despite challenges, the port continues operations as a vital lifeline for Yemen's economy.

Aden's culture reflects its cosmopolitan history—centuries of traders from India, Africa, and the Arab world have left their mark. The city was known for its relative tolerance and diversity compared to other parts of Yemen. Traditional Yemeni architecture, cuisine, and customs blend with influences from the many peoples who have called this port city home.

📜 History

Aden's recorded history begins with mentions in the Old Testament. The city served as a terminus of the Arabian spice trade for about a millennium until the 3rd century CE. Greeks called it "Arabia Emporion" (Arabic trade port). Under various rulers—Yemeni, Ethiopian, Arab, Ottoman, and British—Aden remained a crucial trading hub.

The British occupied Aden in 1839, developing it into a major coaling station. After independence in 1967, it became the capital of South Yemen until unification with North Yemen in 1990. Sanaa then served as the unified capital until 2015, when the internationally recognized government relocated to Aden. The city continues to endure as Yemen's economic gateway despite ongoing challenges.