6% Decline in Number of Jordanians Traveling Abroad for Tourism - Jordan News
Previously, the Jordan Society of Travel and Tourism Agents stated that Turkey (Antalya, Trabzon, Istanbul) and Egypt (particularly Sharm El Sheikh) remain the top destinations for Jordanians traveling abroad.
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Jordan News
a day ago
- Jordan News
6% Decline in Number of Jordanians Traveling Abroad for Tourism - Jordan News
Tourism experts have emphasized the importance of supporting domestic tourism amid a decline in the number of Jordanians traveling abroad for tourism. According to preliminary official data published by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and based on Central Bank figures, the number of Jordanians who traveled abroad during the first half of this year reached 806,970, marking a 5.8% decrease compared to the same period last year. اضافة اعلان Experts stressed the need to provide suitable tourism infrastructure to encourage locals to explore domestic destinations. They also recommended expanding the 'Our Jordan is Paradise' program ('Urdunna Jannah') to include more destinations with a variety of affordable hotel options, along with promotional offers tailored for local tourists. According to the data: In 2023, the number of Jordanians traveling abroad during the first half of the year totaled 856,776, with monthly breakdowns as follows: January: 136,538 February: 132,495 March: 116,756 April: 125,535 May: 118,152 June: 227,300 In 2024, the number totaled 806,970, with monthly figures as: January: 159,085 February: 129,749 March: 126,032 April: 113,692 May: 118,957 June: 159,455 Causes of Decline Experts agree that the reduction in low-cost flight options to and from Jordan amid regional tensions has contributed significantly to the drop in Jordanian travelers. Additionally, rising travel costs to popular destinations like Turkey have made foreign tourism less attractive. Industry Insights Mohammad Al-Qassem, a member of the Jordan Hotels Association and tourism expert, confirmed that reduced low-cost flight frequencies and geopolitical developments, along with rising travel costs, have led to a drop in outbound tourism. He noted that a 5.8% decrease may not be dramatic, but it's an indicator that domestic tourism needs more support. Al-Qassem stressed that travel is important for exposure to new cultures and experiences, and shouldn't be heavily restricted, but encouraged alongside local tourism growth. He also pointed out that economic challenges and declining income have made it difficult for many to afford travel. Al-Qassem emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure in northern Jordan, and offering low-cost hotels to attract tourists, especially during summer, as alternatives to warmer destinations like the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Northern sites such as Ajloun Castle, Umm Qais, and Jerash offer attractive options. He also proposed comprehensive tour programs that include interaction with local communities, traditional meals, and cultural experiences, which would also boost the local economy. Al-Qassem called for an expansion of the 'Urdunna Jannah' program, suggesting it should include more destinations and operate throughout the week, not just on weekends. He concluded that a successful tourism sector requires strong infrastructure, a complete tourism product, and public-private partnerships to manage and improve tourist sites without compromising heritage. Geopolitical Impact Nidal Malu Al-Ain, another tourism expert, said the decline in travel is mainly due to the halt of low-cost flights, which were heavily used for trips to Europe. He also cited economic constraints, income decline, and regional geopolitical instability as key factors. Al-Ain believes that many Jordanians are interested in domestic tourism and prefer spending their vacation days in Jordan—provided that affordable tourism facilities are available. He emphasized the need to establish a model of 'popular tourism' with comprehensive and budget-friendly services, especially for middle-income groups. He urged expansion of the 'Urdunna Jannah' program or launching a new initiative aimed at encouraging domestic travel through promotional packages. Al-Ain also suggested supporting existing tourism facilities by reducing operational costs (e.g., energy bills) and offering deferred financial obligations to tourism businesses. He proposed that hotels offer promotions like free nights with bookings. 'Urdunna Jannah' Program Mahmoud Al-Khasawneh, another tourism specialist, said that regional instability is a major reason for the drop in outbound tourism. He emphasized that domestic tourism must be improved to reduce the number of Jordanians traveling abroad. He noted that while the government-run 'Urdunna Jannah' program plays an important role, a private-sector-driven counterpart should also be developed to offer exclusive packages, especially for Jordanian expatriates returning during the summer. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the program recorded 79,017 participants between April and July 2025. The program was temporarily suspended in December 2024, and resumed in April 2025. Participation figures since resumption are: April: 5,193 participants May: 36,991 participants June: 13,681 participants July (to date): 23,152 participants Previously, the Jordan Society of Travel and Tourism Agents stated that Turkey (Antalya, Trabzon, Istanbul) and Egypt (particularly Sharm El Sheikh) remain the top destinations for Jordanians traveling abroad.
Jordan News
2 days ago
- Jordan News
New Tourist Trail Launched in Wadi Al-Tawahine, Tafileh - Jordan News
A group of adventurers from Tafileh, led by Jordanian explorer Captain Aws Al-Marayat, has launched a new tourist trail named the 'Wadi Al-Tawahine Trail.' This route showcases the region's cultural and historical heritage and stretches approximately 5 kilometers through one of the area's most scenic natural landscapes. اضافة اعلان Located around 35 kilometers northwest of Tafileh city, the trail begins at Wadi Al-Tawahine, which is known for its ancient stone water mill that still preserves its traditional architectural style. The mill tells the story of the region's history and how grains were ground using the force of water flowing from the high streams of Wadi Al-Hasa. The trail continues through Wadi Mukhariq and the Soblah area, ending at the shrine of the revered companion Furwah bin Amr Al-Judhami near the Afra hot springs. Stone water mills were historically used to grind grains in ancient civilizations and are commonly found along several water paths in Tafileh's valleys. Many of these mills still remain, adding significant archaeological and tourism value to the region. According to Al-Marayat, the new trail features a uniquely diverse natural setting, including caves from the Cretaceous period and breathtaking rock formations sculpted by natural erosion over time. The route is surrounded by reeds, palm trees, flowing water, and pink-hued rock sections, offering an ideal experience for adventurers seeking geological beauty and variety in terrain. He noted that the trail is of medium difficulty and requires moderate physical fitness, offering a perfect opportunity for heritage and nature enthusiasts to discover the architectural treasures of Jordan's mountainous and valley-rich terrain—dubbed the 'Amazon of Jordan.' Al-Marayat highlighted the collaboration with Tafileh's Tourism Directorate in promoting the area's remarkable and diverse natural sites, many of which feature waterfalls and continuously flowing springs. Tafileh Tourism Director, Kholoud Al-Jaraba'ah, stated that the Ministry of Tourism aims to establish more trails in this ecologically and culturally rich region. She described the Wadi Al-Tawahine trail as a medium-length route that represents a qualitative step toward ensuring the sustainability and diversity of the kingdom's tourist trails. She added that the ministry is working to develop modern trails to boost tourism development, enhance the region's tourism potential, and establish Tafileh as a hub for adventure tourism, including climbing, daytime and nighttime hiking, rappelling, and more. These efforts aim to generate new job opportunities for local youth and support the growing adventure tourism movement in the area. According to Al-Jaraba'ah, the traditional water mills—built from stone and powered by flowing water—operated by rotating wooden wheels that transferred motion to the millstones. Their designs varied in size and wheel shape, and they were used not only to grind grain but also to press grapes and sugarcane using only the force of water, without human or animal labor. Over the years, Al-Marayat has discovered seven new water and rock-based trails across Tafileh's northwestern and southern mountains and valleys, walking dozens of kilometers to promote these hidden gems on both local and global tourism maps. He has completed training in rappelling, long and safe night hiking, wilderness survival, and first aid, and holds certifications from international institutes in Europe and the U.S. specializing in nature exploration and adventure. – Petra
Jordan Times
6 days ago
- Jordan Times
QAIA welcomes 4.4m passengers in H1 2025
AMMAN — Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) recorded its 'highest-ever' semi-annual passenger traffic in the first half of 2025, welcoming 4.4 million travellers, marking a 6 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2024, the Airport International Group (AIG) said on Thursday. The rise in traffic was largely driven by the resumption of several regional and European routes, as well as increased travel during Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr. Aircraft movements also rose by 2.2 per cent, reaching 36,331 during the six-month period. Despite regional tensions disrupting some flight schedules in June, QAIA said that it continues to strengthen its position as a growing regional hub. 'We chose Jordan as a stop between Europe and the Gulf,' said Chloe Martin, a French tourist travelling with her family. Hasan M., a Jordanian residing in Qatar who was transiting through QAIA, commended the facility's recent enhancements. 'It's clear the airport is aiming for international standards. The new e-gates made passport control seamless, especially during peak hours,' he said. Tourism expert Rania Wazzan said QAIA's performance underscores Jordan's emerging role as a 'strategic' link between East and West. 'The airport's integration of green infrastructure and digital transformation gives it a strong competitive edge in regional tourism,' she noted. Reaffirming its focus on passenger experience, QAIA was named the 'Most Enjoyable Airport in the Middle East' for the second year in a row. In June, nine new smart gates were introduced to streamline arrivals and departures for Jordanian citizens. With expanding air connectivity, sustainability initiatives, and continued operational upgrades, QAIA is 'steadily' cementing its reputation as a world-class aviation gateway, AIG said.
