King visits Umm Qais, joins hikers on Jordan Trail

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah, accompanied by HRH Crown Prince Hussein, visited Umm Qais in Irbid Governorate on Sunday.

King Abdullah stressed the importance of highlighting the area’s history and promoting its attractions to bolster tourism, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty was briefed on restoration efforts at the archaeological site, and noted the need to continue working on enhancing activities to enrich the tourism experience in Umm Qais.

The King stopped by the room where the Umm Qais Treaty was signed in 1920, which marked a significant point in the history leading to the establishment of the Jordanian state.

His Majesty visited a café and gift shop which displays products from the Jadara Society for Friends of Antiquities and Heritage, and viewed handicrafts by members of the local community, noting the role of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in supporting projects by the local community and associations to provide job opportunities and capitalise on tourist attractions.

Moreover, the King joined hikers on part of the Jordan Trail, which extends over 650km from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south.

His Majesty emphasised the need to promote, develop, and sustain the trail, within a plan that contributes to increasing visitor numbers.

During the hike, the King stopped by the productive project of Mariam Abu Alloush, who serves local dishes to tourists at her home.