The Nabataeans were an ancient Arab people who inhabited the region of modern-day Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. They are best known for their remarkable city of Petra, which features stunning rock-cut architecture and advanced water management systems. The Nabataeans thrived from the 4th century BCE to the 2nd century CE, primarily as traders who controlled key trade routes for spices, incense, and other goods. Their culture was a blend of various influences, including Greek, Roman, and local Arabian traditions. The Nabataeans developed their own script, which was an early form of the Arabic alphabet. They were skilled in agriculture and engineering, allowing them to flourish in the arid desert environment.