Petra, April 23 (Petra) -- The ancient city of Petra on Tuesday hosted the launch of "Rally Jameel 2025," the first women-only navigation rally in the Middle East. The event, which runs through April 26, highlights growing regional and international momentum for women’s participation in motorsports.

Organized by the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) and Jameel Motorsports, the rally is held in cooperation with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, the Royal Automobile Club of Jordan, and Jordan Motorsports.

This year’s edition features 45 teams representing 37 countries and receives support from 25 national motorsport federations. The route spans 1,600 kilometers, passing through major landmarks including Petra, Wadi Rum, Tabuk, AlUla, Hail, and Al-Qassim.

Described as a pioneering platform for women in motorsports, Rally Jameel aims to empower participants by providing a challenging and collaborative environment that tests physical endurance, mental agility, and teamwork.

PDTRA Chairman, Fares Breizat, said the rally’s launch from Petra sends a global message on women’s empowerment and inclusion in sports. He noted that the rally’s international visibility, amplified through social media, reaches millions of women worldwide and reinforces Petra’s image as a destination for adventure and discovery.

Breizat added that hosting the event reflects the strength of Jordan-Saudi Arabia cooperation, particularly in the tourism sector. He emphasized that the rally supports Petra’s positioning as a premier global destination and opens new avenues for sports tourism in Jordan. He also highlighted efforts to promote lesser-known archaeological sites, such as the Royal Tombs, as part of the broader tourism offering.

The historical significance of women’s roles in Petra’s past was also highlighted. Breizat referenced the Nabataeans’ recognition of women, citing the example of Queen Shaqilath, whose image appeared on Nabataean coinage, marking the first instance of a woman being featured on currency in that era.

Zaid Balqez, Executive Director of Jordan Motorsports, said the rally’s launch from Petra demonstrates the tangible outcomes of regional partnerships and the growing impact of women's engagement in motorsports.

"Rally Jameel 2025" is expected to contribute not only to the advancement of women in sports but also to enhancing cultural exchange and expanding the scope of adventure tourism across the region.

//Petra// RZ

23/04/2025 10:04:58