Yemen, often in the news for unfortunate reasons due to Houthi attacks, has recently been the focus of a groundbreaking genetic study that sheds light on the country's rich and interconnected past.
Researchers from a university in the United Arab Emirates revealed that Yemen historically served as a genetic crossroads, linking the Levant (a geographical term encompassing the eastern Mediterranean region, including Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Cyprus), East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
The study identified two primary genetic influxes shaping the Yemeni gene pool. The first, originating from the Levant around 5,000 years ago, and the second, from East Africa approximately 750 years ago, reflect Yemen’s historical role as a trade hub.
Traces of genetic signatures from Egypt, Greece and the Persian Gulf were also found, indicating far-reaching cultural and economic exchanges.
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The Yemen region and the countries that influenced its population
(Photo: Scientific Reports 2024)
Genetically, Yemeni men show stronger influences from Arab populations, while Yemeni society as a whole reveals a significant impact from women arriving from East Africa.
Additionally, the study uncovered genetic distinctions between densely populated coastal areas and the country's interior regions, illustrating historical migration patterns that continue to shape Yemen today.