Aqaba and Wadi Rum Bring Together International Women Leaders for Wellness and Sustainability Event

More than 100 participants attend the 12th edition, featuring expert discussions and field visits highlighting Jordan’s wellness tourism, cultural heritage and environmental conservation.

The Jordanian destinations of Aqaba and Wadi Rum hosted the 12th edition of an international women’s health and wellness event under the theme “Sustainability and Heritage,” bringing together more than 100 women leaders, experts, media professionals and advocates working across health, culture and development.

The four-day programme combined specialised discussions with cultural and environmental experiences, highlighting the diverse tourism offerings of southern Jordan.

Participants included women from Jordan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, alongside representatives from Europe and Australia. The event explored connections between wellness, mental health, nature and cultural heritage, while showcasing Jordan’s potential as a destination for sustainable tourism.

The event was organised by Family Flavours and Nakhat A'iliyeh magazines under the patronage of Princess Dana Firas, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Heritage, who was represented by Senator Haifa Al Najjar. Hind-Lara Mango, Executive Director of the publications, highlighted the importance of initiatives that promote women’s participation while positioning Jordan as a destination combining sustainable tourism, cultural experiences and wellness. 

The programme featured panel discussions and presentations addressing mental health, wellness and the relationship between people and nature. Speakers included Turkish scientist Serdar Savaş and Kuwaiti specialist Dr. Amani Al Zaidan, who discussed the role of nature in enhancing personal well-being.

A cultural session also explored Al Tathqif Zaman Al Ta'fif, a book by Sheikha Al Yazia Al Nahyan, connecting intellectual exchange with broader cultural dialogue.

Participants travelled to Wadi Rum, one of Jordan’s most prominent natural attractions, where they learned about efforts to protect the Arabian oryx and preserve biodiversity within the desert ecosystem.

The programme also included a visit to the Women's Association of Disi Villages, where participants experienced local traditions, including preparing traditional shrak bread and planting desert vegetation.

These activities highlighted the role of local communities in protecting cultural heritage and natural resources.

They also demonstrated how traditional crafts, regional cuisine and community experiences can enrich tourism programmes, allowing visitors to discover Jordanian culture beyond conventional sightseeing itineraries.

The event took place amid growing international interest in travel experiences centred on relaxation, nature and mental well-being, areas in which Aqaba and Wadi Rum offer considerable potential.

However, the announced programme did not include specific economic outcomes or new agreements to develop wellness tourism products. Its immediate value therefore lies primarily in knowledge exchange, cultural engagement and promoting locally rooted tourism experiences.

For Arab travellers, combining Aqaba and Wadi Rum offers a diverse itinerary stretching from the Red Sea coastline to spectacular desert landscapes, camping experiences and stargazing adventures.

Visitors can also explore traditional cuisine, local handicrafts and community-based cultural activities.

Together, these destinations provide opportunities to combine relaxation, adventure and cultural discovery within a single journey, while encouraging responsible travel through licensed tourism providers and respect for the fragile desert environment.