Petra, Sept. 15 (Petra) -- Petra is expanding its tourism experience beyond its archaeological heritage with a new biodiversity exhibition in Beidha showcasing the region’s wildlife, plant life and ecosystems through interactive and scientific displays.

The Petra Biodiversity and Natural Heritage Exhibition, opened at the Nabataean Cultural Village, brings together live specimens, preserved wildlife, fossils, freshwater aquariums and interactive installations to introduce visitors to the natural environment surrounding the ancient city.

Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) Chief Commissioner Adnan Al-Sawair said the exhibition adds a new dimension to the region’s tourism offerings by combining environmental and scientific tourism with education and local heritage.

Among its exhibits are selected live organisms, taxidermied and preserved animals representing species found in the area, and skeletons and fossils documenting aspects of Petra’s geological and biological history.

The exhibition also features freshwater aquariums containing several fish species, preserved plants and interactive displays, including a mural illustrating bird migration routes through Petra and models of footprints belonging to local wildlife.

Al-Sawair said developing such attractions can diversify the experiences available to visitors while drawing attention to natural and cultural assets that complement Petra’s archaeological significance.

The exhibition is also designed to raise awareness of threatened species and fragile ecosystems and promote greater understanding of biodiversity conservation.

Its location at the Nabataean Cultural Village in Beidha is intended to strengthen the area as a tourism destination linked to Petra and encourage visitors to explore the region’s broader natural and cultural heritage.

Beyond tourism, the project seeks to support scientific research and biological documentation, increase local community participation and create employment opportunities in guiding, operations and maintenance.

The exhibition is envisioned as a sustainable tourism and scientific attraction and a national platform for environmental education, linking the visitor experience with efforts to preserve Petra’s biodiversity and natural heritage.

//Petra// RZ