AQABA, Jordan - The Jordan Olympic Committee (JOC) is set to host the Baja Sports Festival in Aqaba, coinciding with the Jordan Baja Rally 2026. The festival anticipates the participation of approximately 200 athletes.

The festival will feature competitions in taekwondo, karate, boxing, and e-sports. Events are scheduled to take place at the Great Arab Revolt Square and Ayla Oasis, fostering a community-focused atmosphere.

This marks the second time the JOC has organized the Baja Sports Festival. The event aims to promote community sports, raise awareness about the importance of physical activity, and leverage major sporting events to disseminate sports culture within the community.

Aqaba was selected to host the festival due to its tourism appeal and developed infrastructure. The timing of the festival alongside the Jordan Baja Rally 2026 is expected to enhance the presence of various sports and solidify Aqaba's position as a destination for major sporting events.

Rana Al-Saeed, Secretary-General of the JOC, stated that organizing the Baja Sports Festival in conjunction with the Jordan Baja Rally stems from a desire to involve the local community and visitors in the event. The JOC aims to broaden sports participation and promote the concept of community sports by linking it to national and international events hosted by Jordan.

Al-Saeed affirmed the committee's commitment to launching initiatives that strengthen the presence of sports in the community and contribute to establishing a culture of physical activity as a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.