Petra: "Beit Al-Saidiyeen" – A New Tourism Route Showcasing Bedouin Cultural Heritage - Jordan News
The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority has launched a new tourism route, marking the occasion with an inaugural hike involving approximately 28 participants. The hike led to "Beit Al-Saidiyeen," located southwest of Petra toward Wadi Araba. اضافة اعلان "Beit Al-Saidiyeen" represents the experience of the Saidiyeen family as part of the "Petra Bedouins" heritage, which UNESCO inscribed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2008. The opening of "Beit Al-Saidiyeen" was attended by the Canadian Ambassador to Jordan, Tarik Khan, Commissioner of Infrastructure and Investment Engineer Mohammad Al-Habahbeh, UNDP Resident Representative in Jordan, Randa Abu Al-Hassan, along with dignitaries from the Dlagha region and local community members. This newly launched route, managed by the Jabal Masouda Cooperative Association, is a unique tourism product designed to boost economic and social development in local communities. It does so by investing in Bedouin cultural heritage and offering it as an immersive tourism experience. The route aims to provide visitors with hands-on experiences of Bedouin life and Jordanian desert culture, allowing them to engage in its intricate traditions and daily practices. This form of tourism helps enhance the region's economic and social development while directly supporting the local community. The Petra Authority has encouraged everyone to participate in this authentic experience and support the local community by connecting with the Jabal Masouda Cooperative Association. Dr. Fares Al-Braizat, Chairman of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, emphasized that investing in Bedouin cultural heritage through unique tourism experiences enhances visitors' understanding of Bedouin traditions while preserving this rich heritage. He expressed hope that this initiative would serve as an inspiration and source of support for the local community in Petra. Al-Braizat also noted that the authority has recently developed several routes within Petra's archaeological reserve, totaling approximately 27 trails. Among them, three trails are located in the Dlagha region: the Mudhlam Trail, the Mahmad Trail, and the Khurmah Trail. These initiatives aim to enrich the tourist experience in Petra while ensuring that local communities benefit fairly from tourism-generated development. Meanwhile, archaeological restorer and trail coordinator Qais Al-Tousi explained that the Khurmah Trail spans approximately 14 km and takes most of the day to complete. He advised that participants carefully plan their time due to the natural terrain, wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, and follow local guides' instructions. Salem Al-Saidiyeen, President of the Jabal Masouda Cooperative Association, highlighted that these trails mark a significant step in enhancing local tourism in the Dlagha region while creating new job opportunities for residents. He affirmed the association's commitment to collaborating with the Petra Authority and other stakeholders to ensure the project's success and fulfill its objectives. Hani Al-Falhat, an archaeological expert from Petra, noted that for many years, Petra has been marketed primarily for its cultural and historical tourism. However, thanks to the Petra Authority, new and exciting attractions have emerged, making Petra a diverse and captivating destination. These include eco-tourism, adventure and nature tourism, geological tourism, and horseback riding experiences—all of which enrich the variety of activities available and enhance Petra's appeal to visitors from around the world. The launch of these trails reflects the Petra Authority's commitment to developing eco-tourism and cultural tourism in the region, offering a fulfilling experience that meets the expectations of visitors globally.
Recently, the authority also introduced the Khurmah Trail, recognized as one of the most beautiful and enjoyable long-distance trails. It captivates hikers with its diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty within Petra's archaeological reserve.
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