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Wadi Rum, Jordan – November 6–7, 2026
The breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan, are preparing to welcome runners and adventure enthusiasts from around the world for the 13th RUM International Marathon, scheduled to take place on November 6–7, 2026.
Celebrating its 13th consecutive year, this remarkable sporting event combines endurance running, outdoor adventure, and the extraordinary natural beauty of Jordan's famous desert. With towering sandstone mountains, dramatic valleys, and endless stretches of golden and red sand, Wadi Rum offers one of the world's most spectacular settings for a running competition.
Under the inspiring slogan "Run Beyond Limits, Through the Valley of the Moon," the marathon invites participants to challenge themselves while exploring one of Jordan's most iconic destinations.
Unlike traditional city marathons, the RUM International Marathon takes runners deep into the heart of the magnificent Wadi Rum desert, also known as the Valley of the Moon.
Located in southern Jordan, Wadi Rum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive rock formations, ancient inscriptions, colorful sand dunes, and breathtaking desert scenery.
The event provides an opportunity for professional athletes, recreational runners, and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the beauty of the desert while participating in a challenging international sporting event.
Whether competing in a long-distance endurance race or enjoying a shorter run or walk, participants can discover the magic of Wadi Rum in an unforgettable way.
The 13th RUM International Marathon 2026 offers several race categories designed for different fitness levels and running experiences.
Perfect for families, beginners, and visitors who want to participate in the event without competing in a demanding race. The 5 km walking category provides an enjoyable opportunity to experience the desert atmosphere and admire Wadi Rum's spectacular scenery.
An excellent option for recreational runners looking for an exciting desert running experience. The 10 km course combines physical activity with the opportunity to explore the unique landscapes of Wadi Rum.
Designed for experienced runners seeking a greater challenge, the 22 km category offers a rewarding endurance experience surrounded by the desert's dramatic mountains and valleys.
For endurance athletes seeking an extraordinary adventure, the 84 km Solo category presents one of the event's most demanding challenges.
The race takes place over two days:
This category requires physical preparation, determination, and endurance, offering participants an exceptional opportunity to test their limits in the magnificent Wadi Rum wilderness.
The 84 km Relay allows two athletes to share the challenge and experience the excitement of desert endurance running as a team.
Each athlete completes:
Together, the two runners cover a combined distance of 84 km over the two-day event.
The relay category adds teamwork and shared achievement to the excitement of competing in one of Jordan's most beautiful natural environments.
Wadi Rum is much more than a spectacular race location. It is one of Jordan's most extraordinary natural attractions, drawing travelers from around the world with its dramatic landscapes, rich Bedouin heritage, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Its towering sandstone cliffs, winding canyons, and vast desert valleys create a unique atmosphere for adventure sports.
The desert has also gained international recognition as a filming location for several major Hollywood productions, including Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, and Dune.
For marathon participants, running through this remarkable landscape offers a memorable combination of physical achievement and natural discovery.
November is one of the best months to explore Wadi Rum, thanks to its generally pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler evenings.
During autumn, the desert typically experiences comfortable conditions for sightseeing, hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures.
However, temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, and runners should prepare for changing desert conditions, including sunshine, wind, and cooler early mornings.
The timing of the RUM International Marathon makes it an excellent opportunity for international visitors to combine a sporting event with an autumn holiday in Jordan.
Participating in the RUM International Marathon is only part of the adventure. Visitors can extend their stay and explore the many attractions and activities that make Wadi Rum one of Jordan's leading tourism destinations.
A 4x4 jeep tour is one of the most popular ways to discover Wadi Rum's spectacular landscapes.
Visitors can explore impressive rock formations, ancient inscriptions, natural stone bridges, and magnificent sand dunes while learning about the area's history and Bedouin traditions.
Wadi Rum is famous for its welcoming Bedouin communities and authentic desert hospitality.
Travelers can enjoy traditional Jordanian meals, including zarb, a delicious Bedouin dish prepared underground using heated stones.
Sharing tea around a campfire and listening to stories about desert life are memorable experiences that add a cultural dimension to any visit.
Far from the bright lights of major cities, Wadi Rum offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.
After sunset, visitors can admire the desert's magnificent night sky, where countless stars create a magical atmosphere.
For runners recovering after a challenging race, a peaceful evening beneath the stars provides a wonderful way to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the desert.
For visitors seeking an authentic desert experience, Rum Magic Nights Camp offers an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Wadi Rum.
Staying at a desert camp allows travelers to experience traditional Bedouin hospitality, admire spectacular sunsets, and wake up surrounded by breathtaking sandstone mountains.
Camping in Wadi Rum is an excellent way to extend the marathon adventure, combining outdoor activities with relaxation and unforgettable desert scenery.
Wadi Rum's extraordinary rock formations, colorful landscapes, and dramatic mountain scenery make it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Visitors can enjoy guided hikes through desert valleys, explore beautiful canyons, and capture remarkable photographs of the changing colors of the sandstone mountains.
The 13th RUM International Marathon includes accommodation and logistical services designed to provide participants with a complete running and adventure experience.
These arrangements help runners focus on their sporting challenges while enjoying the unique atmosphere of Wadi Rum.
Visitors planning to attend the event are encouraged to confirm accommodation arrangements, race schedules, transportation options, and participation requirements with the event organizers before traveling.
Wadi Rum is located in southern Jordan, approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Aqaba and around 300 kilometers south of Amman.
Travelers can reach the area by private car, organized tour, or arranged transportation from major Jordanian destinations.
For international visitors, King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba and Queen Alia International Airport near Amman provide convenient gateways for exploring southern Jordan.
The marathon also offers an excellent opportunity to discover nearby attractions, including the ancient city of Petra and the beautiful coastal city of Aqaba.
The 13th RUM International Marathon promises to be an exceptional sporting and tourism experience, bringing together athletes, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts in one of the Middle East's most remarkable desert landscapes.
Whether you are an experienced endurance runner preparing for the challenging 84 km race, a recreational athlete joining the 10 km or 22 km categories, or a visitor participating in the 5 km walk, the event offers a memorable way to experience Jordan's spectacular natural heritage.
Beyond the competition, visitors can discover Wadi Rum's fascinating landscapes, enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality, experience desert camping, and explore the many attractions of southern Jordan.
Mark your calendar for November 6–7, 2026, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure at the 13th RUM International Marathon.
Run Beyond Limits, Through the Valley of the Moon.
Event: 13th RUM International Marathon 2026
Location: Wadi Rum Village, Jordan
Dates: November 6–7, 2026
Race Categories: 5 km Walking, 10 km Running, 22 km Running, 84 km Solo, and 84 km Relay
Main Attraction: Desert endurance running through the spectacular landscapes of Wadi Rum
Additional Experiences: Desert camping, jeep safaris, Bedouin hospitality, hiking, and stargazing