Shibam, known for its unique skyline and ancient mud-brick skyscrapers, has historically been an important stop on the caravan route, with its urban structure enduring natural disasters and preserving an ancient grid pattern distinct from other cities in the region.

In 1982, Shibam was registered as a World Heritage Site, sparking debate over the extent of the heritage zone. Due to management challenges and limited government capacities, the nomination was limited to the walled city and immediate surroundings, with an adjacent agricultural oasis serving as a buffer zone. UNESCO's preservation campaign focused on flood protection and restoration, but lacked a strategic, locally driven approach. This led to the out-migration of residents and businesses, diminishing Shibam's economic and administrative importance.

Preservation efforts faced challenges due to limited local technical expertise, resulting in central government directives that often contradicted international heritage standards and disregarded local construction traditions. The Shibam Urban Development Project, initiated in 2000, aimed to reconcile these conflicting interests but struggled with communication and coordination among local, national, and international stakeholders.

A significant aspect of Shibam's preservation is the residents' decision to stay or leave. Many residents see little social difference between living in Shibam and newer suburbs. However, living in a World Heritage Site incurs higher maintenance costs and stricter restoration regulations, driving families to relocate. The Shibam Urban Development Project focused on preserving architectural integrity and securing funding for home renovations, recognizing that retaining residents is key to preserving the site's historical value. The project argued for public funding of private property renovations as compensation for the indirect tax paid by residents due to the restrictions and lower land values imposed by the heritage status.

Overall, the article highlights the complexities of preserving a World Heritage Site like Shibam, balancing international standards, local traditions, and the socio-economic realities of residents.