Latest news with #Braizat
Ammon
10-07-2025
- Business
- Ammon
Petra lights up in Mexican colors to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations
Ammon News - The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) illuminated the iconic Treasury monument in the colors of the Mexican flag on Wednesday evening, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Jordan and Mexico. The gesture, described as symbolic yet significant, formed part of a broader celebration highlighting the strong and growing ties between the two nations. The event underscored a shared commitment to cultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration across a range of sectors. Speaking at the ceremony, PDTRA Chairman Fares Braizat emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international partnerships. "Petra is a universal symbol of human and civilizational heritage," he said. "We are honored that it serves as the backdrop for this occasion, which reflects the depth of Jordanian-Mexican relations." Braizat noted that the lighting of the Treasury not only commemorates the historical milestone but also reaffirms Jordan's commitment to fostering global cooperation, particularly in tourism, culture, and sustainable development. Officials said the initiative aims to boost cultural exchange and promote Petra as a platform for international engagement. The event also serves to highlight the city's role as a cultural and tourism bridge between civilizations. As part of efforts to expand bilateral cooperation, PDTRA is currently working with Mexican authorities to finalize a partnership agreement between Petra and Chichen Itza, both recognized as the New Seven Wonders of the World. The planned agreement will focus on collaborative tourism marketing, knowledge exchange in heritage site preservation, and the development of joint projects that support sustainable tourism and raise the international profile of both cities. Jordan and Mexico established formal diplomatic ties in 1975. Since then, relations have steadily grown, with increased cooperation in trade, education, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Ammon
02-06-2025
- Business
- Ammon
NATO team in Petra to observe impact of regional turmoil on tourism
Ammon News - A delegation of the NATO Partnerships and Cooperative Security Committee was in Petra on Sunday for a firsthand observation of the impact of regional instability on Jordan's tourism sector, with particular focus on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fares Braizat, Chairman of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), gave a presentation on hurdles facing the Red Rose City's tourism industry due to the current regional situation. Braizat pointed out that Petra's tourism relies heavily on visitors from Europe and North America as the bulk of the tourist base, but regional turmoil led to a marked drop in their numbers, adversely affecting both the national economy and local communities that depend on tourism for an income. Persistent regional tensions compound these difficulties, he stressed, urging domestic and international efforts to highlight Jordan's image and promote Petra as a safe and secure destination. Braizat called for closer cooperation between Jordan and NATO nations to unanimously send a message on safety and stability, which, he said, is essential for tourism to flourish in the region. Members of the delegation underscored security and stability as key pillars of sustainable economic development and supporting local communities. The visit is part of broader diplomatic efforts, led by the Ministry of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs, to boost cooperation between Jordan and NATO, particularly in areas to support tourism, economic resilience, and regional stability. Petra
Jordan Times
15-04-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
US Congress delegation visits Petra city
A delegation from the US Congress on Tuesday visits Petra city to assess the progress of key development projects implemented by the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority and funded by USAID (Petra photo) AMMAN — A delegation from the US Congress visited Petra city on Tuesday to assess the progress of key development projects implemented by the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) and funded by USAID. The visit included a review of several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism infrastructure and sustainability in Petra region. Among the projects showcased were improved visitor flow and transportation systems within and around the archaeological reserve, as well as green growth tourism programmes designed to preserve cultural heritage and promote long-term tourism sustainability, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. These efforts are part of a broader partnership formalised through a JD15 million grant agreement signed last year between the PDTRA and USAID to support a range of development projects across the Petra region. Chief Commissioner of the PDTRA Fares Braizat stressed the significance of these projects in enhancing Petra's position as a 'leading' global tourism destination. He noted that the initiatives contribute to diversifying the local tourism offering, enhancing competitiveness, and enriching the visitor experience in the historic Rose City. Braizat also expressed appreciation for USAID's continued support, underscoring the authority's commitment to advancing Petra's tourism sector through innovative services and infrastructure aligned with its status as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Jordan Times
19-02-2025
- Jordan Times
Petra Authority launches new hiking trails to showcase Bedouin heritage, sustainable tourism
The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority launches new hike aimed at promoting eco-tourism, cultural heritage (Photos by Ahmad Khlifat) PETRA — The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) has introduced a new tourism route, celebrating its launch with an inaugural hike aimed at promoting eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and economic opportunities for the local Bedouin community. The Khurmah Trail is part of an extensive network of 27 hiking trails recently developed or rehabilitated by the PDTRA. According to Chief Commissioner of the PDTRA Fares Braizat, the initiative includes three trails within the Petra Archaeological Park, while 24 others extend beyond its boundaries. 'Today, we are hiking the trail of Khurmah, which takes almost a day and ends in a Bedouin tent, offering an authentic experience operated by the local community,' Braizat told The Jordan Times. The trail runs from Al-Rajef and Daghlah to Masoudah, where it is managed by the Jabal Masoudah Cooperative Association, a locally owned organisation dedicated to preserving Bedouin traditions and fostering economic growth. It leads to Beit Al Sa'idiyyin, a newly inaugurated cultural and hospitality hub, opened by the Chief Commissioner of the PDTRA on Monday. The event was attended by the Canadian Ambassador to Jordan Tarik Khan, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Investment, Mohammed Habahbeh, the UNDP Resident Representative in Jordan, Randa Abu Hassan, and notable figures from the Daghlah region and local residents. Preserving heritage and locals through immersive hikes Beyond offering stunning landscapes and an immersive hiking experience, the trail initiative aims to support the local economy. 'One of the major contributions is the representation of Bedouin culture,' Braizat noted. 'The Bedouin heritage of Petra and Wadi Rum is recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2008, and we want to showcase it to the world as an immersive hospitality experience.' Visitors will not only visit Petra's breathtaking geological formations but also engage with Bedouin life, traditions, and hospitality. The initiative ensures that tourism directly benefits local communities, aligning with broader sustainable tourism goals. Khurmah Trail : a Journey through time The Khurmah Trail, spanning 14 kilometres, provides an adventure through diverse landscapes and historical sites. Starting from the village of Al-Rajef, 25 kilometres south of the Petra Visitor Centre, the hikers journey westward through the Samaan area before reaching the trailhead at Arqoub Al-Ghanimat. Along the way, they encounter remnants of Nabatean water systems, archaeological ruins, and stunning natural rock formations. Notable historical sites along the trail include Al-Munqata'a, a sating from the Chalcolithic period featuring ancient flint tools and pottery fragments, Wadi Khurmah, a valley known for its striking rock formations and Edomite-period artifacts, Jabal Qala'a, home to a Nabatean water reservoir, Qulai'ah, an Iron Age settlement from the 7th century BC showcasing fortifications and ancient pottery, and Al-Sada, a site revealing Palaeolithic and Nabatean habitation, with well-preserved homes and agricultural remnants. The trail concludes in Masoudah, where visitors can rest in a Bedouin tent and enjoy traditional Jordanian hospitality. 'Most of the trails that we have rehabilitated and now introduced to our visitors will be posted on our website 'Visit Petra'. Those hikes are suitable for children aged 10 and above. Families can enjoy the scenery and unique geological formations. They can also learn about the topography of Jordan and archaeology that extends beyond Petra,' Braizat told the Jordan Times. The Petra Authority's efforts in expanding its trail network reflect a commitment to eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. By integrating local communities into tourism initiatives, the project ensures that economic benefits are shared while offering visitors an enriching, authentic experience.
