Wadi rum: Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Salma bint Abdullah II, visited Wadi Rum on Wednesday, where they met with local tour operators and explored a range of experiences the site offers visitors from Jordan and around the world.
According to Jordan News Agency, Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a UNESCO Heritage Site and protected area located in southern Jordan. It is known for its vast sandstone landscapes, red-gold dunes, hiking and rock-climbing routes, and Bedouin cultural experiences.
Queen Rania and Princess Salma began their visit with a journey aboard an authentic recreation of an Ottoman-era Hijaz Railway steam train, operated by the Jordan Heritage Revival Company (JHRC). The ride included a reenactment of a battle that took place during the Great Arab Revolt.
During the train ride, JHRC CEO Muayyad Abu Rumman briefed Her Majesty and Her Royal Highness on the company's mission. Established in 2010 by the King Abdullah II Fund for Development (KAFD), JHRC aims to contribute to the development of the local tourism sector by bringing Jordanian history to life through engaging experiences.
Following a brief pick-up truck ride, the Queen and Princess joined local tour operators around a bonfire for a discussion on the unique experiences Wadi Rum has to offer.
Approximately one hour's drive from the coastal city of Aqaba and two hours from the ancient city Petra, Wadi Rum is one of seven UNESCO Heritage Sites in Jordan. It is a popular filming destination, with its distinctive sand dunes serving as the backdrop for several movies, such as Dune (Parts I and II), two Star Wars films, and The Martian.