The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) intangible cultural heritage elements are the non-physical traditions and practices performed by a people. As part of a country's cultural heritage, they include celebrations, festivals, performances, oral traditions, music, and the making of handicrafts. The "intangible cultural heritage" is defined by the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, drafted in 2003 and took effect in 2006. Inscription of new heritage elements on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists is determined by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, an organisation established by the convention.
Yemen ratified the convention on 8 October 2007.
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Representative List Name Media Year inscribed No. Description Song of Sana’a 2008 00077 This form of performance uses sung poetry and is called homayni; it is a tradition that dates to the 14th century. The urban homayni style known in the capital of Yemen, Sanaani singing, is the most well-known today. Arabic calligraphy: knowledge, skills and practices + 2021 01718 The artistic practice of writing Arabic letters and words to convey grace and beauty. Date palm, knowledge, skills, traditions and practices + 2022 01902 There is a long history of cultivation and utilisation of the date palm in the region, which has led to the development of traditional crafts and social practises. Arts, skills and practices associated with engraving on metals (gold, silver and copper) + 2023 01951 Henna, rituals, aesthetic and social practices + 2024 02116A temporary tattooing practice with medicinal and aesthetic motivations. Hadrami Dan gathering 2025 02232
See also List of World Heritage Sites in Yemen
Notes
References
External links UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: Official site UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Yemen: Official site