Yemeni Sidr honey is one of the most asked-for honeys in Dubai. It is thick, dark and rich, and it is often given as a gift. Because it is so popular, there are many jars on the shelves, and it is not always easy to know what you are buying. This guide covers the basics.
What is Yemeni Sidr honey?
Sidr honey is made by bees that feed on the blossom of the Sidr tree (Ziziphus spina-christi), a hardy tree that grows across Yemen and the wider region. The trees flower for a short season, so the harvest is limited.
The best known Yemeni Sidr comes from Wadi Do'an, a valley in the Hadhramaut region of southern Yemen. The Balqees Raw Yemeni Sidr Do'ani Honey comes from this valley and is harvested by nomadic beekeepers. Read more in the story of the Sidr tree.
What does Sidr honey taste like?
Good Sidr honey is thick and smooth. Do'ani has a rich, aromatic taste with caramel and butterscotch notes. The taste can change a little from one harvest to the next, which is normal for raw honey.
How to choose Sidr honey in Dubai
- Check the origin: the label should name the country, and ideally the region, such as Wadi Do'an in Hadhramaut.
- Check the ingredients: it should say 100% honey, with nothing added.
- Look for "raw": raw honey has not been pasteurised. Our guide to raw, organic and natural labels explains the difference.
- Buy from a seller who answers questions: a good seller can tell you where the honey comes from and how it is packed.
- Look at the guarantee: Balqees offers a purity guarantee on its honey.
Sidr Do'ani or Sidr Balqees?
Balqees sells two Yemeni Sidr honeys. Sidr Do'ani is our bestseller, rich and aromatic. Sidr Balqees comes from a remote part of the Do'an Valley and has a very thick texture with a long floral finish. Both are raw and single-origin. You can compare them in the Yemeni Classic collection.
How to enjoy Sidr honey
- By the spoonful: the simplest way to taste it.
- With breakfast: drizzle over yoghurt, porridge or warm bread.
- In drinks: stir into tea once it has cooled a little.
- With Yemeni food: try it with Bint Al Sahn, the layered Yemeni honey cake.
How to store it
Keep the jar closed at room temperature, away from direct sun, and use a dry spoon. Raw Sidr honey can crystallise over time. This is natural. Stand the closed jar in warm water to soften it again. More tips in how to store raw honey.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Yemeni Sidr honey expensive?
The Sidr season is short, the valleys are remote, and the honey is harvested by hand in small amounts. Read why Yemeni honey costs more.
Is Sidr honey the same as Manuka?
No. Sidr comes from the Sidr tree in Yemen and the region, while Manuka comes from the Manuka bush in New Zealand. See our Sidr vs Manuka comparison.
Can children eat Sidr honey?
Honey should not be given to babies under 12 months. For older children, read our guide to honey and children.
Do you deliver in Dubai?
Yes. Balqees delivers across Dubai and the rest of the UAE.
Taste the honey of Wadi Do'an with Raw Yemeni Sidr Do'ani Honey, delivered across the UAE.
