Desert scenes of Wadi Rum from 1962 kick-started Jordan’s tourism industry.[12]
Wadi Rum is one of Jordan’s most popular tourist sites and attracts a monthly average of 9,860 tourists from around the world.[13] Wadi Rum is home to the Zalabieh tribe, who developed eco-adventure tourism and services throughout the protected area. They provide tours, guides, accommodation and facilities. They also run restaurants and small shops in the villages that provide meals and basic supplies for visitors. Their guide services include highly experienced mountain and trekking guides who have an unmatched knowledge of the local area and often speak fluently in two languages or more.[14] Using local guides and services brings many benefits to the protected area. In particular, it enables people to continue earning a living from the land and helps to ensure that the protected area remains protected.
Popular activities in the desert environment include 4×4 tours, camel rides, camping under the stars, riding Arabian horses, hiking and rock-climbing among the massive rock formations. Travelers staying in the area can overnight in Bedouins style Camps located in the desert or glamping hotels. Hikers and adventurous travelers may also opt to camp outdoors under the stars. Tour operators offering this experience provide sleeping equipment, meals and transport.