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IN BRIEF
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The tourism sector in Jordan faces numerous challenges that jeopardize the appeal of this country rich in history and majestic landscapes. Amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the impacts of the pandemic, Jordan seeks to overcome these obstacles to regain its place on the international tourism stage. This article explores the various issues encountered by the Jordanian tourism sector and the consequences of these challenges on the local economy.
An unstable geopolitical environment #
Jordan, located in the heart of the Middle East, has long been considered a relatively stable destination in a region marked by conflicts. However, ongoing tensions with its neighbors, notably Israel and Palestine, as well as other crises in neighboring countries, have a significant impact on Jordan’s perception as a tourist destination. Regional conflicts discourage many potential travelers, who may hesitate to choose Jordan due to safety concerns.
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The decline in attendance at iconic sites #
Sites such as Petra, recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world, have experienced a dramatic decline in attendance. While Petra attracted over a million visitors in 2023, this figure could plummet to only 250,000 visits in 2024. This decrease is due to various factors, including the perception of insecurity and rivalries with neighboring destinations that are restoring their appeal.
The impact of the pandemic on tourism #
Like many other destinations, Jordan has been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions and lockdowns caused a drastic drop in tourist arrivals, leading to significant revenue losses for sectors related to tourism, such as hospitality and catering. While many countries are strengthening their vaccination campaigns and focusing on revitalizing their tourism sector, Jordan struggles to regain an influx of visitors in line with its ambitions.
Efforts to promote sustainable tourism #
In response to these challenges, Jordan is working to develop sustainable tourism initiatives. The master plan for tourism development in Petra has recently been completed, aimed at promoting environmentally friendly development and benefiting local communities. These efforts are essential to attract travelers concerned about the impact of their visits. By raising awareness among tourists about the importance of preserving the country’s natural and historical wealth, Jordan hopes to appeal to a more engaged audience.
The major challenges of infrastructure #
The development of tourism infrastructure is also a crucial issue. Although Jordan has attractions of inestimable value, the accessibility of certain sites remains limited. Roads, hospitality facilities, and services may require significant improvements to provide a tourist experience that meets visitors’ expectations. Investment in solid infrastructures could encourage more travelers to explore the wonders of the country.
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Towards an optimistic recovery #
Despite these challenges, Jordan shows some optimism for the future of tourism. Jordanian authorities are preparing to reopen their tourist facilities at full capacity, while adopting measures to reassure visitors about the safety of their stay. The resilience of the sector, combined with the opening of new tourist routes and a revitalized marketing dynamic, could contribute to a necessary recovery of the local economy.
