Traditional markets: Buying yesteryear [Archives:2002/20/Business & Economy]

BY MAHYOUB AL-KAMALI
YEMEN TIMES STAFF
Among Yemens best loved traditions are its suqs, or markets, which date back hundreds of years.
These markets still operate today and have never been eroded by modern life. This is, in part, because rural Yemen is home to the majority of these markets.
These historic markets show ancient Yemen knew trade a long time ago.
In rural Yemen there are many traditional markets held on a certain days of the week, a practice started a long time ago, drawing large attendance from the region theyre held in.
In most cases these markets usually take place within eight to 15 km of each other.
Yemenis have been known throughout history for their expertise in trade in ancient times. Yemen has, in fact, one of the oldest trade routes in Arabia. This helped it establish good trade relations with many countries of the region and Far East.
Shareab, located to the north of Taiz and overlooking the Babalmandab Strait, has seven traditional markets alone, covering all the days of the week.
Al-Ahad Souk (Sunday Souk)
This is the most popular market in Sharaab Al Salam area.
It is located in the middle routes leading to different villages of the district. It is also near Nakhla the valley famous for its banana cultivation.
Everything one can ever need is available here, starting with household needs, livestock, handicrafts and art such as pottery. There are many modern products sold here, but this market still has the air of deep history. Shoppers flock to this market from all over Sharab.
Al-Jumaa and Al Khamees Souk
Al Juma Souk is located is only 15 km from Al Ahad Souk, All kinds of agricultural products are sold in this suk. Al Khamis Souk is located 10 km from Al Ahad Suk. Only livestock are sold here.
Al-Rabuaa Souk
Al Rabuaa Souk is located 15 km from Al Khamis suk. It is right in the center of Sharaab. This Suk is used for selling all kinds of products as well as livestock.
Terms of selling
There are two methods used to measure goods: either by using either a measurement called Mikyal or by using the world standard balance. Yet, some fruits are calculated and not weighted.

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