Jebel Um ad Dami | Wadi Rum

Information

Landmark: Jebel Um ad Dami
City: Wadi Rum
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Jebel Um ad Dami, Wadi Rum, Jordan, Asia

Jebel Umm ad Dami is the highest mountain in Jordan, reaching an elevation of 1,854 meters above sea level. It is situated in the remote southern region of the Wadi Rum Protected Area, positioned directly on the international border with Saudi Arabia.

Visual Characteristics

The mountain is composed primarily of dark sandstone and granite, exhibiting a more rugged and darker aesthetic than the red sandstone massifs of central Wadi Rum. Its terrain consists of steep scree slopes, narrow rocky ridges, and massive boulders. From the summit, the topography offers a direct view of the Red Sea to the west and the expansive desert plains of northern Saudi Arabia to the south.

Location & Access Logistics

The peak is located approximately 35km south of Wadi Rum Village. Access is strictly via a 4x4 desert vehicle, typically requiring a 60 to 90-minute drive through deep sand and remote valleys from the main tourist hubs. There are no paved roads or marked public transport routes. Most visitors access the mountain through organized day trips from the Wadi Rum Visitor Center or overnight desert camps.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Geologically, the mountain is part of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, formed by tectonic activity and weathered over millions of years into its current high-altitude profile. Unlike the more archaeologically dense northern areas, its history is primarily tied to traditional Bedouin migration and hunting. Ecologically, it serves as a habitat for rare high-altitude desert species, including the Arabian ibex and various birds of prey.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is a guided trek to the summit, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours for a round trip from the base. The hike is considered moderate and does not require technical climbing gear, though it involves steep scrambling over loose rock. Photography from the peak is a major draw due to the unique perspective of two countries and the sea from a single vantage point.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There is no modern infrastructure at the site. No restrooms, shade structures, or visitor centers exist at the base or on the trails. All logistical supplies, including water and emergency equipment, must be carried by the visitor or guide. 4G/5G cellular signals are non-existent or roaming on Saudi Arabian networks near the summit.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal months for trekking are October through April. Due to its elevation, temperatures at the summit are significantly lower than in the desert below, and winter can bring frost or light snow. Summer visits should be limited to the very early morning (before 08:00 AM) to avoid extreme heat exposure on the unshaded slopes.

Facts & Legends

Jebel Umm ad Dami only officially became recognized as Jordan's highest point after modern GPS surveys corrected previous data that attributed the title to Jebel Rum. Local Bedouin lore refers to the mountain as a landmark for ancient spice and incense caravans navigating the "Empty Quarter" toward the Mediterranean.