This framed photograph showcases the historic city of Shibam in the Hadramout region of Yemen. The city dates to the 3rd century CE and was nicknamed ‘the Manhattan of the desert’ due to the clusters of mud-brick towers that are the world’s oldest skyscrapers.
A local artist from this same region, Mr. Atif Al Sa’adi, carved the frame using tradition woodcraft methods. The frame displays both geometric and organic motifs inspired by local flor¬a and fauna. These motifs visually demonstrate the Hadrami people’s cultural and religious beliefs. The frame is constructed out of the trunk of a ‘Sedder’ tree or Sidr tree, which is only harvested in the winter when the wood reaches peak conditions. The Sidr tree is an ancient tree and has been used in religious instances. 
The photographer, Mr. Alaa Askol, emphasized the unique characteristics of Shibam city including tall clusters of mud-brick houses, traditional Hadrami urban architecture, the city’ fortification walls, and the surrounding agricultural landscapes.
The government of the Republic of Yemen presented ‘Shibam Hadramout, Manhattan of the Desert’ to the United Nations. 
In 1982, the city of Shibam was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site for its distinctive architecture.