Temperatures are generally very high in Yemen, particularly in the coastal regions. Rainfall is limited, with variations based on elevation.
Situated on the Arabian Peninsula in Southwest Asia, Yemen is a Middle Eastern country comprised of the formerly separate republics of North and South Yemen.
With Jebel Nugum towering over it, Sana'a sits on the narrowest point of a major mountain plateau, (2.286 metres) above sea level. The region's volcanic origin and regular rainfall make it fertile and it enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year with the occasional sharp frost in the small hours of winter nights. One legend tells of its founding by Shem the son of Noah.