One of the best known groups from Jordan’s ethnic groups is the Bedouin. As they are known in Arabic, the Bedu, or “desert dwellers,” endure the desert and have learned to survive its unforgiving climate. It is difficult to count Bedouins, but it is generally known that the majority of Jordan’s population is of Bedouin origin.
Local Communities Map
Situated to the northeast of the archaeological park of Petra,
al Bayda is home to a community that preserves and shares the traditional
Bedouin ethos of harmonious coexistence with nature. The local folklore museum,
accessible to tourists, showcases the area's rich history and cultural
traditions.
The people of Umm Sayhoun are deeply connected to their Bedouin traditions, which they carefully preserve and pass down through generations. These traditions include the intricate art of Henna design and playing traditional musical instruments like the 'Rababah' and 'Shababah'
Wadi Musa is a Jordanian city and the center of Petra District in Ma'an Governorate. It is located in southern Jordan, Wadi Musa has witnessed radical changes in the level of services during the last decade, and a large number of five-star and four-star hotels are available now
Al-Tayybeh, the second largest town in Petra, it's situated at a high altitude, overlooking Wadi Musa and Al-Rajif. It is approximately 1500 meters above sea level, with the summit of Mount Mabrak, which is considered the highest peak in Jordan.
Rajif is a Bedouin community known for its plentiful agricultural produce, which includes olives, apricots, almonds, figs, and lentils. Within this small village, the local population actively preserves Bedouin culture, which encompasses traditional dances and more.
Located just off the King’s Highway, the village of Dlaghah is a place where traditional Bedouin life persists. The local residents continue to practice a nomadic way of life, herding livestock and primarily sustaining themselves with a traditional dairy diet, often crafted from goats' milk.
The Culture
The Bedouins are the nomadic inhabitants of the desert, living by herding camels and livestock as they move from place to place in search of water and pasture. Their communities are characterized by distinctive black hair tents, known as "Bayt al-Sha'ar," or tents of hair.
For the Bedouins, coffee is the key to conversation and a signal to begin speaking. It also serves as a means of welcoming guests and conveying the values of generosity and hospitality. When serving coffee, it should first be offered to the guests or the elders.
Bedouin food is a celebration of flavors and tradition, and every meal is a communal feast. Trying zarb is a must—a mouthwatering dish of meat and vegetables slow-cooked underground.
The Bedouin cup of tea is more than just a drink; it is a profound symbol of ancestral heritage. In every sip, it embraces a story of hospitality and welcome, where Bedouin generosity is evident in every encounter.