The Nabateans were an ancient Arab people known for their remarkable civilization that thrived from the 4th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. They inhabited the region of modern-day Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Syria, with their capital at Petra, a city famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit systems. The Nabateans were skilled traders, controlling key trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean. Their culture was a blend of various influences, including Greek, Roman, and Egyptian elements, reflecting their interactions with neighboring civilizations. The Nabateans developed their own script, known as the Nabatean alphabet, which evolved into the Arabic script. Their contributions to trade, architecture, and water management have left a lasting legacy in the region.