Umm Al-Jimal, known as the Black Oasis, is a remarkable ancient city in the eastern desert of Jordan, built almost entirely from black basalt stone. It was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The city flourished in the Roman, Byzantine and early Islamic periods, and it was an important stop on the trade routes. Its well-preserved houses, churches and walls give a vivid sense of life in the desert.
Umm Al-Jimal is known for its distinctive architecture, with multi-storey houses and a sophisticated water system. It is a peaceful, atmospheric site, far from the crowds.
It is an easy day trip from Amman, and it is often combined with the desert castles.
Plan your Umm Al-Jimal visit
Umm Al-Jimal is a remarkable basalt-built settlement in northern Jordan. Its dark stone architecture and long history make it very different in character from the sandstone monuments of Petra and the limestone ruins of many western Jordanian sites.
The site rewards visitors who look closely at building techniques, domestic spaces, streets and the relationship between the settlement and the surrounding dry landscape. Allow time to walk rather than viewing the ruins only from a vehicle.
Umm Al-Jimal was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024. Conservation work and visitor arrangements can evolve, so check current official guidance before visiting.
Official information & further reading
