Yemeni Women Launch Businesses Amid Economic Crisis

In Taiz, Yemen, women are increasingly starting their own businesses to support their families as the country faces a severe economic crisis and high male unemployment. Traditionally, Yemeni men have been the primary breadwinners, but wives like Aziza Al-Doba’ai are partnering with their husbands, or launching ventures independently, to secure a livelihood.

Aziza and her husband, Baleegh, co-own Abu Sultan, a fast-food restaurant bringing uncommon cuisine to the city, serving around 30 customers daily. This shift reflects a broader trend of female entrepreneurship in Yemen, driven by necessity and a growing recognition of women’s economic capabilities.

Sociologist Natheer Abdulhadi notes that this is fostering cooperation within households and elevating women’s status. Arwa Al-Omari, director of the businesswomen’s unit in Taiz governorate, says the number of women-led businesses is rapidly increasing, though precise figures are difficult to obtain.

The success of these businesses relies on both ingenuity and community support, with customers like Muthana Adimi actively choosing to patronize women-owned establishments. This change is also challenging traditional gender roles and forcing male business owners to adapt to a more competitive landscape.