Aden - Commercial Capital of Yemen : Local Economic Development Strategy

Aden has a number of widely recognized
unique assets, which are critical inputs to its emerging
strategic positioning within Yemen and the region. Most
notable is its natural deep-water harbor on the Red Sea,
striking landscapes and distinctive topography, abundance of
raw materials, and rich urban heritage. In addition, the
residents of Aden are known for their hospitable nature and
openness to diversity. Today, leadership in Aden, both
public and private, are motivated to create prosperity.
Despite a broad portfolio of assets and existence of key
infrastructure, the city must address constraints that are
holding back economic growth. Aden has much of the basic
infrastructure required for businesses to compete, with a
few areas requiring major investment. The city is spread
across 6,980 square kilometers and is composed of eight
districts, each with its own commercial center. The city
developed on a peninsula and subsequently expanded along the
coast, following the main radial route inland. The city of
Aden is differentiated from the rest of the country in
several important ways. First, Aden has a deep and naturally
protected seaport. Second, the immediate region has an
abundance of raw materials. Finally, Aden is well known for
its hospitable culture and rich urban and physical heritage.
These characteristics, combined with the presence of the
container terminal, international airport, and Aden free
zone, comprise the foundation for the future growth of the
maritime, hospitality and tourism, and manufacturing
industries in the governorate. Finally, the emerging
institutional architecture and process for change in Aden
needs further development. The quality of dialogue,
particularly between the public and private sector needs to
improve, and the responsibilities of the private and public
sectors need to be articulated, acknowledged, and pursued.
While the government needs to do everything it can to help
the private sector, the businesspeople of Aden need to
accept more responsibility for improving the region's economy.