The MENA run exchange is a student-led initiative that organises different running camps across the Middle East and North Africa. The camps offer students from the University of London the chance to train in a new environment whilst becoming immersed in a new culture.
Our first camp, with athletes from the School of Oriental and African Studies, took place in Ramadan in April 2023. We were based in the heart of Aqaba, training and living with local Jordanian athletes, learning about local music, food and dance and bonding with the Jordanians over a shared love for running and adventure; swimming in the Red Sea, floating in the Dead Sea, stargazing in Wadi Rum and soaking in the ancient beauties of Petra.
Our second camp brought athletes from the School of Oriental and African Studies and University College London to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Each day began with a trail run through the mountains as the athletes readied themselves to summit Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa sitting at 4179m. Throughout the week, students stayed in a secluded Amazighi village and became involved in the local community; working hard to help prepare the village for winter whilst enjoying the local hamam and the tastes of apple season to relax.
Happy Runners
Miles clocked
Feet climbed
For the 2024 MENA Run Exchange camps in Jordan and Morooco. Sport City in Aqaba, Jordan is hosting a track running and cultural exchange trip and Aroumd village in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco is hosting a trail running, adventure, and cultural exchange trip open to all students under the University of London.
Jordan Camp Morocco Camp
