Yafa'

Yafa’ (the Yafai Highlands), stretching across the south-eastern highlands of Lahj and Abyan, is one of Yemen’s fastest-emerging specialty coffee regions. With elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,200 meters, the area features steep, dry slopes carved into centuries-old terraces, where farmers cultivate ancient Yemeni landraces under harsh, arid conditions. Despite limited rainfall and scarce water resources, the region’s high elevation, cool nights, and traditional dry-farming techniques promote slow cherry maturation and concentrated flavour development.

Coffee from Yafa’ is gaining rapid recognition in global specialty markets for its lively and distinctive cup profile. Typical flavours include bright, zesty acidity, layers of sweetness, and occasional berry or citrus overtones that reflect both the region’s terroir and its heirloom varieties. Smallholder farmers rely on sun-drying cherries on rooftops and raised beds, with improving post-harvest practices helping elevate quality and traceability. As international interest grows, Yafa’ is becoming a prominent new source of vibrant, high-elevation Yemeni micro-lots with strong market potential.