Overview
Shibam is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Yemen's Hadhramaut region, famous for its unique sixteenth-century mud-built high-rise apartment buildings—some sixteen stories tall. The bizarre "skyline" has earned it the moniker "Manhattan of the Desert." Dating back to the second century AD, the city offers a rare glimpse into medieval urban planning where towers were built to protect citizens from Bedouin raids.
Architecture · History
Before you go
Access
Weekly flights from Cairo (CAI) to Seiyun (GXF) as of March 2024, with Seiyun approximately 20 km from Shibam.
Architecture
Shibam's 16-story mud-brick high rises date to the 16th century, making them the world's first skyscrapers. UNESCO World Heritage site.
Food
No restaurants exist within Shibam. A small cafe at the city entrance serves tea; bring your own food or arrange meals locally.
Safety
Yemen travel requires careful security assessment. Check government travel advisories before planning a visit.
Shopping
Famous for handcrafted wooden Shibam locks and keys. Shopkeepers don't bargain, claiming prices are already low.
Size
With only about 7,000 residents, Shibam is a small, compact town walkable in a few hours.