Yemeni Bodybuilder Pursues Ambition of Competing on the International Stage.

In Yemen, a country beset by years of civil strife and economic challenges, bodybuilder Saleh Hussein al-Raidi is determined to pursue his passion for bodybuilding against formidable odds. At just 24 years old, al-Raidi dedicates hours to training in a small, bustling gym in Mukalla, where the air is thick with humidity and the atmosphere is charged with aspiration. Despite the constraints posed by limited resources and a fragile economy, his commitment to becoming a competitive bodybuilder remains unwavering.

Currently juggling two jobs to support his family, al-Raidi often finds himself lacking access to essential nutrition and supplements critical for muscle growth. His daily meals typically consist of a modest portion of fish and rice, a far cry from the protein-rich diets that many of his competitors enjoy. Al-Raidi’s resilience shines through as he trains barefoot amidst antiquated gym equipment, all while navigating the sounds of bustling traffic that invade his makeshift sanctuary.

Many in Yemen, particularly the youth, face similarly challenging circumstances as they attempt to pursue their dreams. Al-Raidi’s aspirations are not solely personal; he trains with his family’s welfare in mind, supporting his wife, child, and parents through hard work unloading ships at Mukalla’s port and engaging in free diving for seafood. Each day presents a new challenge, but the hope for a brighter future pushes him forward.

The backdrop of Yemen’s ongoing civil conflict adds another layer of difficulty to al-Raidi’s journey. Power outages are common, leaving him to train in the sweltering heat without basic amenities. Nevertheless, the perseverance of individuals like al-Raidi speaks volumes about the resilience of youth in the region.

His early competitive experiences, including a significant event in the capital city, Sanaa, left him with mixed feelings. While he received a medal and a modest cash prize, the lack of substantial support highlights the broader socio-economic challenges that athletes face in Yemen. An attempt to compete in neighboring Saudi Arabia brought its own obstacles, as economic constraints led him to travel by bus and face strict border checks, ultimately impacting his performance due to inadequate nutritional intake during transit.

Despite these hurdles, al-Raidi holds steadfast dreams of competing in prominent regional competitions, such as the Dubai Pro Bodybuilding Championship. His journey represents not just a personal quest, but also the spirit of resilience and discipline shared by many in the Arabian Peninsula’s youth, particularly as Saudi Arabia and the UAE increasingly foster sports and fitness culture among their populations. For Saleh Hussein al-Raidi, bodybuilding is more than a sport; it’s a beacon of hope in challenging times.

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