Jordan has officially announced the fifth international edition of the Marathon des Sables (MDS), to be held in the striking desert terrain of Wadi Rum from November 1 to 8, 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference in Amman by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab and Cyrilie Gauthier, CEO of the Global MDS.
Organised by the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Experience Jordan Adventures, the ultramarathon is regarded as one of the world’s most demanding endurance races. This year’s event is expected to draw over 650 runners from across the European Union and beyond, marking it as the largest edition yet.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Annab highlighted the strategic role of the event in positioning Jordan as a premium destination for adventure tourism. “Hosting the Marathon des Sables for the fifth consecutive year reinforces Jordan’s leadership in adventure travel. We’ve invested extensively in trails and experiences that highlight our landscapes and heritage, and this race in Wadi Rum is a shining example,” she said.
Jordan has made major strides in this sector, notably with the development of the 650-kilometre Jordan Trail, which traverses diverse terrains and communities. The race in Wadi Rum—often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon”—provides a dramatic backdrop for international athletes to test their limits in extreme desert conditions.
Cyrilie Gauthier of MDS expressed admiration for Jordan’s growing role in the global endurance scene. “MDS Jordan has become the crown jewel of our series. The landscapes, hospitality, and deep cultural connection runners experience here set a new standard. We see Jordan as a long-term partner in building a global adventure sport platform,” he said.
Dr. Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, described the marathon as a reflection of the Kingdom’s strategic vision. “This race is more than a sporting event. It tells a story about Jordan—its beauty, its history, and the authentic encounters it offers. We are proud to align this with our broader tourism goals,” he remarked.
Ayman Abd-AlKareem, CEO of Experience Jordan Adventures and local host of the event, reinforced the commitment to sustainable tourism and community partnerships. “This race represents endurance and discovery. We are deeply committed to ensuring that local communities, especially in Wadi Rum, benefit from and contribute to the event’s success,” he noted.
As interest in adventure tourism continues to grow globally, Jordan’s hosting of the MDS places it firmly on the map as a world-class destination for sport, nature, and cultural immersion. Beyond competition, the event offers runners and spectators alike a rare opportunity to experience Jordan’s unique blend of physical challenge and historical wonder.
