Chiang Mai's Lanna heritage is 90% ready for ICOMOS evaluation on August 3–8, 2026, seeking Thailand's 10th UNESCO World Heritage listing. Distinctive from past sites, Chiang Mai positions itself as a "living historic city" with 730+ years of continuous culture: temples remain active, residents engage daily, commerce thrives. If approved by the World Heritage Committee next year, the designation would boost tourism revenue and local brand value across hotels, restaurants, and traditional goods—though management must balance conservation with the city's vibrant, everyday use.