Jordan gets ready to host international desert race in Wadi Rum

Jordan is set to boost adventure tourism with an international desert race coming to Wadi Rum in 2025. The iconic Marathon des Sables will hold its fifth global edition—and the first ever in the Middle East—from November 1 to 8, bringing endurance athletes to Jordan’s desert landscape.

Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, and CEO of the Global Marathon Des Sables (MDS), Cyrilie Gauthier, held a press conference in Amman to make the official announcement about the launch of the event.

The desert ultramarathon, organized by the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Experience Jordan Adventures, and known as one of the world’s most challenging endurance races, will bring together approximately 650 runners from across the European Union, marking a boost to Jordan’s tourism season in November and highlighting the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.

In her remarks to the press, Minister Annab said, “Hosting the Marathon des Sables for the fifth time in Jordan firmly cements our country’s position as a premium adventure travel destination. Over the past decade, Jordan has made significant strides in shaping its adventure tourism landscape, investing in trails, infrastructure, and authentic experiences that connect visitors with our nature, culture, and heritage.”

The minister said that marathon tourism “has become a strategic pillar in our destination planning. It aligns with global trends in wellness and ‘live tourism,’ offering immersive, shareable experiences that resonate with cultural athletes, runners who view the sport as a way to connect, explore, and reflect shared values.”

“Beyond the race, runners will also have the opportunity to experience the timeless wonder of Petra and the healing stillness of the Dead Sea, two of Jordan’s most iconic and transformative landscapes,” Annab added.

Minister Annab concluded by extending her “heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the Marathon des Sables for their continued trust in Jordan, and to all the extraordinary runners joining us from around the world. We look forward to welcoming them this November and wish each participant the very best of luck on this extraordinary journey.”

Cyrilie Gauthier, the CEO of MDS, stated, “MDS Jordan has become the crown jewel of our global series—one of the most successful destinations in the history of MDS. Its extraordinary landscapes, unmatched hospitality, and the emotional connection it creates with runners from around the world have set a new benchmark for what adventure racing can be.”

 “But this is only the beginning. We have ambitious plans for Jordan. Jordan has all the ingredients to become a global hub for our endurance events, and we are proud to be part of that journey,”

Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, Dr. Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, said: “We at the Jordan Tourism Board are proud to support world-class events like the Marathon des Sables. This event not only highlights Jordan’s stunning landscapes, but also reflects our ongoing efforts to position the Kingdom as a leading destination for adventure tourism.”

 “Through such events, we welcome responsible travelers who are seeking authentic connections with nature, culture, and history. Events like this help visitors discover the true spirit of Jordan and the richness that makes our country truly unique,” he added.

Commenting on the occasion, CEO of Experience Jordan Adventures, Ayman Abd-AlKareem, said, “As the official local partner, Experience Jordan Adventures is proud to continue hosting this iconic race, which brings together hundreds of international runners in a celebration of endurance, connection, and discovery.”

He stressed the team’s commitment to sustainability and community partnership in Wadi Rum, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support of the Ministry of Tourism, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), and the Jordan Tourism Board in strengthening Jordan’s position as a leading adventure travel destination.