Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj's article in Trialog focuses on the urban development of Shibam, Yemen, a World Heritage Site known as the "Manhattan of the Desert." The Shibam Urban Development Project (SUDP), initiated by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), is part of a Yemeni-German technical cooperation program. Unlike traditional historic conservation, SUDP's strategy is to develop Shibam's economic, social, and administrative base, ensuring its vitality and continuity within a new regional context.

The article delves into Shibam's historical background, highlighting its architectural significance, its strategic location on ancient trade routes, and its evolution over time. Shibam's unique mud-constructed tower houses, dating back to the 16th century, have faced challenges such as agricultural land loss, demographic shifts, and neglect of historic buildings. This decline was exacerbated during the socialist rule in Southern Yemen (1967-1990), leading to economic stagnation and infrastructure deterioration.

A key aspect of Shibam's revitalization is the rehabilitation of historic houses. The SUDP employs a practical approach, focusing on both technical and financial assistance. Technical assistance includes surveying building conditions, analyzing problems, prioritizing interventions, and preparing cost estimates. Financial assistance involves subsidies for restoration, upgrades, and maintenance, with the aim of preserving Shibam's architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary living standards.

The article also addresses the challenges in revitalizing Shibam's urban economy. It stresses the importance of diversifying income sources, especially for the youth, and engaging in community-based projects. The role of women as economic agents is also highlighted, with a focus on training programs in both modern and traditional crafts.

Furthermore, the article discusses the need for a balanced approach to conservation planning and economic development. It suggests leveraging Shibam's status as a World Heritage Site to attract tourism, which could provide sustainable funding for urban rehabilitation. The involvement of local communities in planning and conservation efforts is crucial for the project's success.

In summary, the article presents a comprehensive view of the challenges and strategies involved in revitalizing Shibam. It emphasizes the importance of a multifaceted approach that combines architectural preservation, economic development, community engagement, and sustainable tourism to ensure the long-term vitality of this historic city.