Royal Moments in Wadi Rum! Queen Rania & Princess Salma Visit Jordan’s Desert Icon

Wadi Rum, Jordan — Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah and Her Royal Highness Princess Salma bint Abdullah II visited Wadi Rum this week, where they met with local tour operators and explored the iconic desert destination’s unique experiences for visitors from Jordan and around the world.

The royals began their visit with a short journey aboard a recreation of an Ottoman‑era Hejaz Railway steam train, operated by the Jordan Heritage Revival Company. The ride included a historical reenactment linked to a battle from the Great Arab Revolt of 1916.

Following the train experience, Queen Rania and Princess Salma continued deeper into the desert and engaged with local tourism organizers around a bonfire, discussing the array of activities Wadi Rum offers — from adventure tourism to Bedouin cultural experiences.

Wadi Rum — also known as the Valley of the Moon — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its dramatic sandstone landscapes, red‑gold dunes, and stunning desert vistas. Its distinctive scenery has featured in major international films such as Dune, Star Wars, and The Martian, further cementing its global reputation.

The visit highlighted the natural beauty and tourism potential of one of Jordan’s most iconic destinations, as well as continued support from the royal family for promoting local heritage and visitor experiences.

Sources: Queen Rania / Jordan News