Supporting the urban integration between the city of Al-Ula and Petra through the archaeological networks

Introduction Integrating synchronous historical cities into unified regional networks is vital for sustainable heritage tourism. This research aims to support the urban integration of Al-Ula (Saudi Arabia) and Petra (Jordan) by establishing a transnational archaeological network that capitalizes on their shared Nabataean origins. Methods The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining historical analysis, and a survey of 308 visitors, alongside semi-structured interviews with planners and tourism stakeholders. Results Empirical findings reveal a fragmented tourism ecosystem characterized by drive-by visitation, with 52.8% of tourists staying less than 3 hours, and significant dissatisfaction regarding the lack of services (55.5%) and high accommodation costs (51.3%). These data points highlight a critical disconnect between the heritage sites and their supporting urban infrastructure. While the renewal of the Hijaz Railway represents a long-term regional strategic ambition, this study utilizes the visitor survey as a preliminary ‘pulse check’ to demonstrate a clear market demand for enhanced connectivity and improved service infrastructure. Discussion This integrated approach aims to transform the sites from isolated monuments into a cohesive cross-border destination, thereby enhancing the visitor journey and supporting local economic development.