Jordan at the forefront of adventure tourism with Marathon Des Sables 2025
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. From the world-renowned Jordan Trail, which spans more than 650 kilometers through diverse terrains and communities, to this iconic race set against the magnificent backdrop of Wadi Rum, Jordan continues to spotlight the richness and variety of its outdoor offerings.'
The minister underlined 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.'
'Events like the Marathon des Sables bring athletes whose immersive experiences turn them into storytellers,' she explained, adding, 'Each participant leaves with a deep emotional connection to Jordan—its heritage, its people, and its natural beauty. Wadi Rum offers a demanding physical course set within a landscape that invites reflection, cultural connection, and a sense of spiritual awe. 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.'
Highlighting the marathon as a remarkable opportunity to showcase what Jordan has to offer beyond the racecourse, she said, 'It is an immersive and unforgettable experience, one that transcends geography and time, and remains etched in our guests' memory.'
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.'
For his part, 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. We believe this is the right country to grow, innovate, and build a long-term vision where sport, culture, and tourism intersect in a powerful way. 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, stated: '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.'
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.
As a host of the Marathon des Sables, Jordan marks a milestone in its emergence as a leading destination for international sporting and adventure tourism. More than just a race, it offers a transformative experience that blends endurance, culture, and exploration against the breathtaking backdrop of Wadi Rum's desert landscapes. As global interest in adventure travel continues to rise, MDS Jordan positions the country at the forefront of this growing sector, attracting high-value international visitors and supporting the national tourism strategy by showcasing Jordan's natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality on the world stage.
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Tourism Breaking News
6 days ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Jordan at the forefront of adventure tourism with Marathon Des Sables 2025
In a major announcement for Jordan's tourism sector, 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 officially launch the fifth international edition—and the first ever in the Middle East—of the Marathon des Sables, scheduled to take place in Wadi Rum from 1 to 8 November 2025. The desert ultramarathon, organized by the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Experience Jordan Adventures, and renowned as one of the world's most challenging endurance races, will bring together approximately 650 runners from across the European Union, marking a significant boost to Jordan's tourism season in November and highlighting the unique 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. From the world-renowned Jordan Trail, which spans more than 650 kilometers through diverse terrains and communities, to this iconic race set against the magnificent backdrop of Wadi Rum, Jordan continues to spotlight the richness and variety of its outdoor offerings.' The minister underlined 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.' 'Events like the Marathon des Sables bring athletes whose immersive experiences turn them into storytellers,' she explained, adding, 'Each participant leaves with a deep emotional connection to Jordan—its heritage, its people, and its natural beauty. Wadi Rum offers a demanding physical course set within a landscape that invites reflection, cultural connection, and a sense of spiritual awe. 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.' Highlighting the marathon as a remarkable opportunity to showcase what Jordan has to offer beyond the racecourse, she said, 'It is an immersive and unforgettable experience, one that transcends geography and time, and remains etched in our guests' memory.' 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.' For his part, 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. We believe this is the right country to grow, innovate, and build a long-term vision where sport, culture, and tourism intersect in a powerful way. 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, stated: '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.' 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. As a host of the Marathon des Sables, Jordan marks a milestone in its emergence as a leading destination for international sporting and adventure tourism. More than just a race, it offers a transformative experience that blends endurance, culture, and exploration against the breathtaking backdrop of Wadi Rum's desert landscapes. As global interest in adventure travel continues to rise, MDS Jordan positions the country at the forefront of this growing sector, attracting high-value international visitors and supporting the national tourism strategy by showcasing Jordan's natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality on the world stage.
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Low-cost flights to resume in Jordan by late 2025
AMMAN — Low-cost airlines are expected to resume flights to Jordan in the final quarter of 2025, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab has announced. Speaking to Al Mamlaka TV, Annab said the ministry is in ongoing contact with several low-cost carriers to accelerate the return of their operations to the Kingdom. The minister attributed the suspension of services to recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which prompted airlines to temporarily redirect their routes to other destinations in the region, including away from Jordan. She noted that the tourism sector has begun to stabilise following a two-week period of unrest in June, triggered by the Israeli-Iranian air war. According to the minister, Jordan has witnessed improvements in visitor numbers, tourism growth, and revenues in recent months. Official figures show outbound tourism spending rose by 3.3 per cent in the first half of 2025, reaching US$999.7 million. However, spending in June dropped sharply by 22.7 per cent to US$195.6 million. Inbound tourism revenue climbed 11.9% during the same period, totalling US$3.667 billion, despite a 3.7% dip in June to US$619.2 million, largely due to the impact of regional tensions. Data from the Central Bank of Jordan indicated significant increases in tourism income from various regions: 42.9 per cent from Asian nationalities, 35.6 per cent from European travellers, 25.8 per cent from American visitors, and 11.5 per cent from Arab tourists. Revenue from other nationalities rose by 43.0 per cent.
Khaleej Times
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- Khaleej Times
Look: Abu Dhabi-based runner who ran 250km in deserts 9 times, says it 'saved his life'
The first time Ammar Sabbah ran 250km across the Sahara desert, he didn't do it for the glory. He did it because it sounded like fun. 'I love the desert and I love camping,' says the Abu Dhabi-based ultra-runner. 'So, when I heard about the Marathon des Sables — 250km, self-supported, sleeping in tents, carrying everything on your back — I thought, why not?' That casual 'why not' has since turned into nine finishes of the world's toughest footrace, with a tenth on the horizon. Now 57, Sabbah speaks about running like others speak of meditation — or religion. In fact, running has brought him closer to both life and death than he ever imagined. 'It saved my life,' he says. 'Twice.' Running into the void — and finding clarity The Marathon des Sables isn't a regular race. Held in Morocco, it's a week-long ultra-marathon through sand dunes and scorching temperatures, with competitors carrying their own food and gear. 'You get water stations. That's it,' says Sabbah. 'Everything else — sleeping bag, food, safety equipment — you carry on your back. It's not just a physical challenge. It's mental. Emotional. Spiritual.' During the longer stages, he often slips into a trance. 'Your brain goes into places. I've had full conversations with people who aren't here anymore. My late mother, my uncle. Sometimes it feels like I'm dreaming with my eyes open.' It's also when he writes — not with a pen, but in his mind. 'I love writing. I get poetry ideas during runs. Business ideas too. The basics of a piece just start to flow. Some of them I remember. Some get lost in the sand.' Desert highs and near-death lows Sabbah isn't driven by competition. 'I never trained to win,' he says. 'My goal was just to break into the top 150 once. My best was 242 out of 1,200. And I was thrilled.' But even as he pushed through race after race — Oman, Jordan, Morocco — something started to feel off. 'In 2016 I wasn't improving anymore,' he says. 'I thought, okay, maybe it's age. Maybe it's the ACL tear I'd had. I just wasn't getting faster.' Then came Al Marmoom Ultra Marathon in Dubai — another 250km. Sabbah wasn't planning to enter, but the organiser reached out directly. 'He said, 'How can we not invite the guy with the most desert ultras in the UAE?' So, I agreed.' The entry required a cardiologist's clearance. Sabbah wasn't worried. 'I'd just done a 100km race in Jordan. I felt fine.' But during the test, the doctor paused. Something was wrong. 'He told me, 'I don't think I can let you run.' Later, we discovered I had over 90 per cent blockage in a major artery. I was one heartbeat away from collapse.' He underwent urgent surgery. 'I went from being 'fit' to nearly dying, just like that. And it was because I signed up for a race. That's how running saved me the first time.' Training in sandstorms and city limits For Sabbah, training has never been about long hours. 'Daily runs are short. Never over 10km. Weekends we go longer — 30km maybe. And before a big race, we'd do a five-day desert camp: Run in the morning, rest, run again at sunset.' When he moved to Dubai in 2014, he lived near Al Marmoom and trained between office meetings. 'I'd go out for 45 minutes in the sand, then go back to work.' Now based in Abu Dhabi, he drives out to Al Wathba's artificial mountain area to run. 'You can still find that nice heavy sand, or gravel, or uphill. You train your mind more than your legs.' Still, he admits he sometimes overdid it. 'There were years I'd do two or three of these races in one season. I remember running in Oman, then Morocco three weeks later. Not a smart idea.' The second scare — the valve that almost stopped everything Years after his first surgery, Sabbah began feeling the same decline. 'I wasn't getting faster. The fatigue was back. Something felt off.' A second opinion confirmed it: the previous stent was fine, but his aortic valve was calcifying. Eventually, it was opening just 20 to 25 per cent — far from what the heart needs. In September 2023, he underwent open-heart surgery to replace the valve. 'I told my doctor, let's just do it. I don't want to lose my performance slowly. Let's fix it properly.' A year later — almost to the day — he was back in Jordan, running a 250km trail race through Petra and Wadi Rum. 'It wasn't my best performance. I was still in rehab. But emotionally? It was everything. The nostalgia. The silence. The people asking, 'Where have you been for so long?' It was like coming home.' No carbs, no gels — just grit and fat-burning A clinical nutritionist by training, Sabbah has re-thought everything about endurance fuelling. 'For years, we all followed the high-carb diet. Energy gels, pasta loading — all of it. Now, I've switched to low carb. I run without sugar. Without gels. I go straight into fat-burning.' He's careful not to push extremes. 'I'm not fully keto. And I worry the new trend is the same mistake — just in the other direction. But for me, this works.' He adds: 'I have degrees in biochemistry, clinical nutrition, exercise physiology. And after all that, I still believe everybody is different. You've got to find what works for you.' Sabbah now owns Arena Fitness in Abu Dhabi, where he combines decades of ultra-running experience with professional expertise in clinical nutrition and exercise physiology. But he's careful not to glorify suffering. 'We've made overachievement look glamorous. But if you're running ultra-marathons just to prove something on LinkedIn — that's not it.' His advice? 'Only do this if you love it. If you don't have the passion, the pain won't be worth it. But if you do — it's the most beautiful experience you'll ever have.' And if he's not enjoying it? 'I don't run. I haven't run in six weeks,' he said, laughing. 'My mind's busy with business. I'll get back to it when I feel like it.' When asked what's next? Sabbah says he hasn't picked his next race yet, but Morocco is calling. 'I want my tenth Marathon des Sables; it would be the 40th anniversary; I'm not sure I'm ready… but I might just go anyway.'
