In a war-torn country like Yemen, young people struggle to find employment, especially those without unique skills or higher education degrees. Zahed al-Zabidi, in his 30s, is among those who have been battling to provide for his five family members.
His anxious look reflects his daily hardships; he eagerly anticipates a job opportunity from anyone who approaches him, ready to take on any work that can help support his family.
"I have been working, washing dishes and cleaning restaurants, for more than 15 years. That is the only thing I can do," Zabidi told Middle East Eye. "I used to find a job easily, but it isn't easy to find work anymore."
Yemen's youth unemployment rate stood at 32.39 percent in 2024, and this rate is particularly prevalent among young people like Zabidi, who rely on low-skilled jobs that do not require specific experience.
Originally from the Hodeidah governorate, Zabidi moved to Aden seven years ago in search of a better income. He had struggled to find stable employment in Hodeidah, where he relied entirely on intermittent day labour.
