Jordan launches sports tourism push with desert marathon and MMA week
Jordan has highlighted sports tourism by hosting the Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan desert race and Jordan Mixed Martial Arts Week, events that ran this year and target international athletes, fans and media. The initiatives aim to broaden the Kingdom’s appeal beyond traditional sightseeing and attract new visitor segments.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Jordan promoted two major international sports events to diversify its tourism offering
- Timing
- The sixth Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan and MMA Week took place this year
- Who is affected
- International athletes, spectators and travel operators focusing on Jordan
The details
Event overview
The sixth edition of the Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan concluded after a week‑long, three‑stage desert race that attracted more than 500 participants, primarily from European markets. The route linked Wadi Rum, Petra and the Dead Sea, showcasing the country’s varied landscapes.
Jordan Mixed Martial Arts Week followed a week‑long schedule that featured former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, football legend Ronaldinho and other celebrities. Venues included the historic Odeon Theatre in Amman, the Dead Sea Corniche and the Roman Theatre in the capital.
Organisers and support
The marathon was organised by Jordan Experience Tours (JET DMC) with a French partner, receiving support from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Jordan Tourism Board and the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority. The event was held under the patronage of Tourism and Antiquities Minister Dr. Imad Hijazin.
MMA Week was promoted by the Jordan Tourism Board, which highlighted the event’s potential to draw large crowds, generate media exposure and introduce new audiences to Jordan’s heritage sites.
Strategic goals
Both events illustrate Jordan’s ambition to use sports and entertainment to reach new markets, encourage longer stays and reduce seasonal fluctuations. By placing competitions in iconic locations such as Petra and the Roman Theatre, the Kingdom aims to convert event‑driven visitors into broader tourism customers.
The Jordan Tourism Board expects that athletes, their support teams and fans will generate demand for accommodation, transport, guides and other services, creating economic benefits for local communities.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing Jordan bookings can now market their trips as part of a sports‑tourism experience.
- New packages may combine marathon or MMA event dates with cultural tours of Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.
Cost and documents
- No additional visa fees or documentation were introduced by the events.
- Standard entry requirements for Jordan remain unchanged for all visitors.
What you need to do
- Monitor Jordan tourism announcements for future sports‑event dates.
- Travel agents should consider adding the marathon and MMA week to itinerary options.
- Visitors planning to attend should verify event schedules and venue locations.
Who this affects
-
International marathon participants
They competed in the Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan across Wadi Rum, Petra and the Dead Sea.
-
MMA event spectators
They attended Jordan Mixed Martial Arts Week held at historic sites in Amman and the Dead Sea.
-
Travel operators
They can create themed packages that combine sports events with heritage tours.
-
Media and influencers
They covered the events, providing international exposure for Jordan’s destinations.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan take place?
The sixth Marathon des Sables 120 Jordan concluded after a week‑long race this year, featuring three stages across Wadi Rum, Petra and the Dead Sea.
Who organised the Jordan desert marathon?
Jordan Experience Tours (JET DMC) organised the marathon with a French partner, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Jordan Tourism Board and ASEZA.
What venues were used for Jordan Mixed Martial Arts Week?
MMA Week opened at Amman's Odeon Theatre, held training sessions along the Dead Sea Corniche, and finished at the Roman Theatre in the capital.
Did the events change Jordan’s visa requirements?
No, the events did not introduce new visa fees or documentation; standard entry rules for Jordan remain in force.
How can travel agents use these events in their offerings?
Agents can design packages that pair the marathon or MMA week dates with cultural tours of Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and other heritage sites.
