Understanding Yemeni Society with Qāt (Catha edulis) (July 13, 2019)

2019 Public Seminar “History, Culture, and Society in the Arabian Peninsula” (5th session)

　Yemenis’ favorite indulgence is khat. In Yemen, where recreational facilities are scarce, a few hours spent chewing fresh kart leaves harvested early in the morning with close friends and acquaintances in the afternoon provides an opportunity for socializing for men and women of all ages. This seminar discusses how qāt brings people together through its production, distribution, and consumption, including Yemenis living outside the country.