Mafraq, July 19 (Petra) — A bicycle rally set off on Saturday from the city of Mafraq to Umm al-Jimal to promote the desert archaeological site as a tourist attraction.

The 30KM cycling event, which set off from Mafraq railway station, was organized by the Umm al-Jimal Municipality in cooperation with the Jordan Cycling Federation and Ibdaa Marketing to promote the ancient site on the anniversary of its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The sport of cycling is keen to promote Jordan’s tourist sites as local and international tourist destinations, said Jordan Cycling Federation President Tariq Khayat, hailing the participation of cyclists from across the Kingdom in “this important event.”

This show, a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Tourism, the Umm al-Jimal Municipality, and the Jordan Cycling Federation, is part of the Ministry’s vision to promote the archaeological site that will positively impact the local community, said Director of Mafraq Tourism, Amjad Al-Maaytah.

Umm al-Jimal, and ancient city located north of Amman with an exceptional archaeological history, served as a vital trade and military route hub, evident in its well-preserved ruins and structures.

Often called “Black Oasis”, it was built from black basalt and contains forts housing numerous churches, water basins, and the remains of a Roman military site.

//Petra//SS
19/07/2025 17:46:57