Wadi Rum Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site

1246

On the road to inscription, Jordan needed evidence of the site’s outstanding universal value. Former Minister of Tourism and Senator Akel Biltaji praises this accomplishment, stating “this means that Wadi Rum is important to all of humanity and this is another responsibility for Jordan to be the custodian of another World Heritage Site.”

James Irwin, one of the Apollo 15 astronauts of the fourth American lunar landing was quoted as having told HM the late King Hussein during a trip to Wadi Rum that “this is the closest thing on Earth to what I saw when I walked on the moon.” According to Senator Biltaji, “this was the origin of the name Valley of the Moon,” by which Wadi Rum is known.

Wadi Rum was first made famous in the West by the movie Lawrence of Arabia, serving as a major military point during the Great Arab Revolt of 1916 led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali – the great grandfather of HM King Abdullah II.

The incredible desert landscape extends approximately 42km from north to south, and approximately 33km from east to west. Wadi Rum is a major feature within the Hisma desert, lying to the east of the Jordan Rift Valley and south of the steep escarpment of the central Jordanian plateau.

Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, Nayef H. Al Fayez, said: “This recognition is well-deserved for such an incredible place like Wadi Rum, and Jordan will not only work on preserving the site and keeping its cultural and natural integrity intact, but we will also work on sharing its glory with the world.” Wadi Rum joins Petra, Quseir Amra, and Umm Ar-Rasas on Jordan’s list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

 

Previous articleTauck Asia Tours
Next articleCrystal Cruises New Ports in 2012
Sue Lobo
Sue, our esteemed Operations Manager, has been honored as a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler for 2023 and 2024. With over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, Sue brings a wealth of expertise to our company, particularly in the areas of group travel, event planning, and blogging. As a passionate traveler herself, Sue has explored more than 20 countries across three continents, including captivating destinations such as Cuba, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. Her firsthand experiences allow her to provide invaluable insights and recommendations to our clients, ensuring that their travel dreams become a reality. Sue's dedication to the travel industry extends beyond her role as Operations Manager. She has successfully coordinated over 200 travel groups, meticulously planning and executing each trip to perfection. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned her a reputation as a trusted and reliable travel professional. In addition to her operational expertise, Sue is a gifted writer at heart. She leverages her writing skills to share her love of travel and provide consumers with essential industry-related news and updates. Her engaging blog posts offer a unique perspective on the world of travel, inspiring others to embark on their own adventures. When she's not planning extraordinary trips or writing captivating travel content, Sue indulges in her passion for cooking, exploring the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of the places she visits. With her unwavering enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, Sue continues to be an integral part of our team, ensuring that every traveler's experience is truly unforgettable.