Written by Rabab Doleh

Translated by Haifa Ghaith

The selection of Wadi Rum and its surroundings by major global film production companies, including Hollywood, was not merely a coincidence. These companies have spent hundreds of millions of dollars to capture scenes and simulate Mars or other planets. Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, is truly unique and stands out with its distinct features, deserving the title "Wadi Rum Planet."

There may be a shortfall from both official and private entities in marketing and promoting Wadi Rum and its numerous tourism-related events, entertainment activities, and other aspects that are difficult to enumerate. Similarly, there is a clear lack of promotion for the tourist facilities.
Through a simple calculation during our visit to Wadi Rum, "Akhbar Al-Yawm" found that there are over 200 tourist camps and hotels, ranging from six to eighty rooms. These accommodations attract between ten to twelve thousand visitors specifically over each weekend.
These numbers are not arbitrary but rather there are tourism companies that offer their services for one or more nights as part of their marketing programs. While it is possible to leverage the presence of these thousands of visitors to promote other tourist areas, it is also possible for the relevant official tourism authorities to meet with tourism companies and a marketing plan for most tourist destinations in Jordan, including programs for domestic and international tourism.
This is considered one of the most important factors in supporting domestic tourism and the national economy, as it creates a positive image for foreign tourists. Many countries organize free trips for university students and families to familiarize them with these areas and put them on the tourism map.
One of the employees in Wadi Rum camps adds that the summer season witnesses significant influx of tourists, especially domestic tourists or expatriates. At the same time, there are Arab tourist groups that come to this place. If there was better promotion, Wadi Rum would be filled with tourists throughout the year, especially since the economic impact of this tourism benefits not only the locals or the camps operating in the area, but it extends to a chain of businesses including the airport, tourist transportation buses, restaurants, grocery stores, and many heritage establishments. All of these contribute to the national economy.
Regarding the events held in these camps and on the sands of Wadi Rum, they encompass various aspects of Jordanian heritage, including traditional cuisine, attire, songs, and folk music. Moreover, as visitors seek enjoyment and happiness, we have created safari trip programs that vary in duration, location, and are offered at reasonable prices by relevant entities.
Furthermore, all of these activities have successfully conveyed the image of Jordanian identity and heritage to visitors from all countries. With the enchanting sands of Wadi Rum and its breathtaking landscapes during sunrise, daytime, sunset, and night, each timeframe has a particular impact on tourists. In reality, you are truly experiencing "Wadi Rum Planet."
Another camp owner laments the lack of promotion and support for these camps, as we rely solely on ourselves in this regard. We should not forget that the government and the private sector have the potential to support these facilities through various means. Some have even suggested previously that international conferences held in Jordan should be hosted in Wadi Rum, similar to those held at the Dead Sea, Aqaba, or even the events of the Jerash Festival. The mesmerizing nature of Wadi Rum is unparalleled anywhere else in Jordan or the world.