The Royal Commission for AlUla and Jordan’s Petra National Trust have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance the sustainable protection of ancient monuments and boost community involvement in preserving their shared Nabatean heritage.
The agreement includes knowledge exchange, educational initiatives, and community engagement, and supports the Ruwat program, which offers training for AlUla residents to contribute to heritage conservation.
The Petra National Trust joins the Royal Commission's network of international partners, including UNESCO and IUCN, while strengthening ties with Jordanian sectors such as Royal Jordanian Airlines and Khammash Architects.
AlUla, September 5, 2024 — The Royal Commission for AlUla has taken a significant step towards enhancing the sustainable protection of ancient monuments by signing a groundbreaking cooperation agreement with Jordan’s Petra National Trust. This landmark agreement, formalized in the historic Hegra area of AlUla, aims to strengthen efforts in preserving and safeguarding their shared cultural heritage, as both AlUla and Petra are pivotal centers of the ancient Nabatean civilization.
The agreement outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration between the two entities, encompassing the exchange of knowledge and expertise, as well as facilitating mutual visits and tours. It emphasizes promoting education and community engagement in the fields of history and heritage preservation. By fostering a deeper understanding of their common heritage, the agreement seeks to empower local communities and enhance public participation in the conservation of these invaluable landmarks.
AlUla and Petra are renowned for their remarkable cultural and architectural achievements, which vividly reflect the ingenuity and artistic prowess of the Nabateans. The Darb al-Bakrah route, which connects Hegra to Petra, is particularly noteworthy for its historical inscriptions in both Arabic and Nabatean languages. This route not only highlights the historical connections between the two regions but also underscores their integral role in the ancient Nabatean trade networks.
A key component of the agreement is its support for the Ruwat program, an initiative launched by the Royal Commission for AlUla that offers specialized cooperative training for the local population. This program aims to build capacity within AlUla, equipping residents with the skills and knowledge necessary to actively contribute to heritage conservation efforts.
Through this partnership, the Petra National Trust becomes an esteemed member of the Royal Commission’s international network of partners, which includes globally recognized organizations such as UNESCO, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). These collaborations are instrumental in advancing global efforts to preserve cultural and natural heritage.
Additionally, the agreement reinforces strategic partnerships with various Jordanian sectors. For instance, Royal Jordanian Airlines, which facilitates travel between Jordan and AlUla, plays a vital role in connecting the two regions. The agreement also engages Khammash Architects, who are integral to the design and construction of the Sidrat AlUla project, further linking the conservation efforts of both nations.
This collaboration not only highlights the shared historical significance of AlUla and Petra but also marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to protect and celebrate the rich cultural legacy of the Nabatean civilization.
