History

The Order of Merit is believed to have first been established in 1964. The Order is named after the ancient capital of the Yemenite Kingdom and believed birthplace of the Queen of Sheba and was created in commemoration of the 10th anniversary o the Republic of Yemen. The Order is conferred in 3 Classes to citizens of Yemen as well as to other foreigners in recognition of outstanding civil merit. The design of the Order was modified in 1972.

The Grand Cordon Breast Star is worn with a Sash Badge as the I Class award of the Order.

The obverse features an Arabic inscription which translates to "Marib."

There are 2 known versions of the Order which vary by design according to period of institution. There may be additional versions or divisions issued to military personnel, but subsequent research is necessary to confirm.