Jordan is a land steeped in history and breathtaking landscapes, and is now home to a unique cultural offering that’s like no other: the Medaina Festival. Held annually in May, this multi-day event offers a sensory journey that beautifully intertwines the kingdom’s ancient grandeur with the pulse of contemporary arts, music, and gastronomy. Forget the usual tourist trails; Medaina invites you to experience Jordan through a different lens, one where the echoes of the past resonate with the beats of the present.
The festival unfolds across two of Jordan’s most iconic locations: the ancient “rose-red city” of Petra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the dramatic desertscapes of Wadi Rum. Imagine wandering through Petra’s Siq, not just in the daylight, but bathed in the glow of artistic light installations, with music enhancing the majesty of the historic facades. Next, you’ll find yourself under the vast, star-studded sky of Wadi Rum, where the silent sentinels of sandstone mountains lay background to captivating performances that range from modern electronic music to traditional Bedouin sounds.
Organised by Tithorea, Medaina is more than just a music festival; it’s an immersive cultural escape. The days are filled with opportunities for exploration; these include guided tours through archaeological wonders, wellness sessions that draw inspiration from the serene desert environment, and culinary experiences that showcase the rich flavours of Jordanian cuisine.
What also sets Medaina apart is its deep respect for the local culture and environment. The organisers work closely with the Jordanian Tourism Board and local communities to ensure the festival honours and respects the historical and spiritual significance of these sites. Sustainability is a further key focus, with efforts made to minimise the festival’s ecological footprint.
This year’s festival runs from May 21st to 26th, 2025, and will feature a global lineup of electronic music artists such as Âme, Bedouin, Ben Sterling, HVOB and more. These acts will perform alongside Jordanian cultural and artistic offerings. Ultimately, this festival will be a testament to Jordan’s growing reputation as a destination that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with modern experiences.
You can book local transfers, accommodation packages and cultural activities on Tithorea’s website. And to get to Jordan from Singapore, you can splurge on Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways or Emirates, or choose the more affordable Gulf Air or Turkish Airlines (we chose the latter as it’s part of Star Alliance, which Singapore Airlines is a member of).
Keep an eye out for future editions of Medaina Festival – it promises to be an unforgettable journey that’s one for the books. NYLON SINGAPORE will be on the ground in Jordan next week covering the festival live on our socials. Find us on Instagram @nylonsg to follow along.
You can find out more and book tickets at www.tithorea.com.
