Flag of Al Mahrah

The Mahra region is in the east of Yemen, bordering Saudi, Oman and Somalia. Mahris have their own culture and non Arabic dialect. Partially nomadic, they use their fishing, trading, animal herding and small-scale farming skills to scrape a living from a harsh and difficult landscape.

The majority of Mahris are young (60% under 30 years old). Many families rely on financial support from family members who have emigrated to GCC to find work as there are few job opportunities in the region. With few basic amenities such as water, electricity and health care, there is currently little incentive for businesses to invest in the area. Sadly, many young people are tempted by the quick gains that can be made through illegal means: the smuggling of drugs, guns and people.