Al-Haymah, situated west and southwest of Sana’a, is one of Yemen’s traditional highland coffee districts, known for its long history of terraced agriculture and heritage landraces. Perched between 1,600 and 2,300 meters, the region features dry, windswept terraces carved into stone-rich soils, where farmers rely on centuries-old dry-land practices adapted to Yemen’s harsh, arid environment. The landscape is rugged, and farms are typically small, family-managed plots passed down through generations, with cultivation methods emphasizing selective picking and careful sun-drying on rooftops or raised beds.
Coffees from Al-Haymah are valued for their classic Yemeni character. In the cup, they often display a harmonious combination of spice notes, cocoa-like sweetness, dried fruit tones, and balanced, elegant acidity. This profile reflects both the region’s traditional post-harvest techniques and its high-altitude microclimates, which slow cherry development and enhance complexity. Known for consistent quality and a steady supply of distinctive lots, Al-Haymah continues to maintain its reputation as a dependable source of archetypal Yemeni coffee.