Ancient South Arabia, located on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, was home to several important civilizations, including the Sabaeans, Himyarites, and Qatabanians. These societies thrived from around the 1st millennium BCE to the 6th century CE, primarily due to their strategic position along trade routes connecting India and Africa with the Mediterranean. The region was known for its rich resources, particularly frankincense and myrrh, which were highly valued in ancient trade. The cities of Marib and Zafar served as cultural and economic centers, showcasing impressive architecture, including the famous Marib Dam, which exemplified advanced engineering techniques of the time.