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AMMAN — The Petra International Marathon celebrated the “successful” conclusion of its 15th edition on Saturday, bringing together more than 300 runners from across the globe in one of the world’s most extraordinary race settings.
Organised by Jordan Experience Tours and Albatros Adventure Tourism, in collaboration with the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), the event combined athletic endurance with cultural discovery, reaffirming Petra’s reputation as a leading destination for sports tourism.
The marathon route began at the Obelisk Tomb inside Petra’s archaeological park, guiding participants through some of the ancient city’s most iconic monuments—including the Siq, the Treasury, the Theatre, and Qasr Al Bint—before stretching into the rugged mountains of Baidah.
Widely recognised as one of the world’s top “adventure marathons,” the event has become a “flagship” sporting occasion in Jordan.
This year’s edition welcomed runners from Europe, Latin America, East Asia, and several Arab countries. Many participants extended their stay in Jordan, joining a seven-day cultural and adventure programme highlighting the Kingdom’s archaeological sites and natural landscapes.
In the 42-kilometre full marathon, Jordanian athlete Salameh Al Aqra secured first place, followed by Tyma of Ukraine in second and Hadrian of Malta in third.
Jordanians dominated the 25-kilometre half marathon, with Yousef Jomaa taking gold, trailed by Abdulaziz Al Shoaibi, Mohammad Bakr and Fouad Abu Safi.
The competition concluded with a festive award ceremony celebrating both the athletes’ achievements and Petra’s growing role as a global hub for sports and cultural tourism.
PDTRA Chief Commissioner Fares Braizat praised the marathon’s impact on Petra’s visibility and the local economy.
“Since its launch in 2009, following Petra’s recognition as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the marathon has contributed significantly to room occupancy and the socio-economic fabric of Petra,” he told The Jordan Times. “From restaurants and souvenir shops to transport providers and even camels, everyone in the supply chain benefits.”
Braizat noted that this year’s edition brought more than 350 runners and companions, most of whom are staying over three days in Petra and more than a week in Jordan.
“This is a complete package that extends the benefits beyond Petra to communities across the country,” he said.
The commissioner emphasised that the event supports the Royal Modernisation Vision 2023–2033, which aims to enhance tourism revenues and diversify the national economy.
Looking ahead, Braizat revealed plans to expand Petra’s offerings as a sports destination.
“We are working to enhance, improve, and enlarge these activities—introducing horse races, trekking, hiking, meditation, and more—to position Petra as a hub for sports and wellness tourism,” he said.
