10 Ancient Middle Eastern Wonders Beyond Petra

10. Shibam, Yemen

Shibam rises from the Yemeni desert in a cluster of striking mudbrick towers, earning the nickname “Manhattan of the Desert.” Enclosed by ancient walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as one of the world’s earliest examples of vertical urban planning—its buildings reach as high as 11 stories, with origins tracing back to the 16th century and possibly earlier.

Petra may headline the conversation, but this region’s story is written across many remarkable landscapes. The wonders highlighted here cover thousands of years and countless cultures, each bringing something different to the traveler's journey. As restoration and tourism initiatives accelerate, these sites are becoming more accessible and better preserved for new generations of explorers. Whether you dream of walking ancient basilicas or tracing pilgrim routes between towering tombs, the Middle East invites you to look beyond the usual and embrace true adventure.