Ma'an is a city in southern Jordan, 218 kilometres southwest of the capital Amman. It serves as the capital of the Ma'an Governorate. Its population is approximately 41,055 in 2015. Civilizations with the name of Ma'an have existed at least since the Nabatean period—the modern city is just northwest of the ancient town. The city is an important transport hub situated on the ancient King's Highway and also on the modern Desert Highway.