Latest news with #FaresBraizat
Ammon
4 days ago
- 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
22-05-2025
- Jordan Times
When wonders meet: Petra and Great Wall of China forge global alliance
The agreement marks a new chapter in cultural diplomacy, bringing together two of the world's most iconic heritage sites (Photos by Ahmed Khlifat) PETRA — The ancient city of Petra hosted a historic event on Tuesday as it welcomed a high-level Chinese delegation for the signing of a twinning agreement between Petra and Jiayuguan City, home to the Great Wall of China. The agreement marks a new chapter in cultural diplomacy, bringing together two of the world's most iconic heritage sites in a strategic partnership to promote international tourism, exchange, and cooperation. The ceremony, held in front of Petra's Treasure, was led by Fares Braizat, Chief Commissioner of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, Zhao Shumin, Director of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Jiayuguan Municipality, and was attended by Chen Chuandong, Chinese Ambassador to Jordan, as well as representatives from Jordan's tourism and local development sectors. 'This is a historical moment,' Braizat said, 'We are not just connecting two landmarks – we are connecting two great cultures from the Middle East and East Asia. This partnership promotes dialogue, fosters mutual respect, and raises global awareness of the values we share.' The agreement outlines a roadmap for collaboration in tourism marketing, cultural exchange, education, investment, and joint events. It includes plans for hosting exhibitions, supporting community-based initiatives, and sharing expertise in heritage preservation, traditional industries, and crafts. Ambassador Chen highlighted the broader significance of the partnership : 'Jordan has long stood at the crossroads of civilisations. By uniting Petra and the Great Wall, we celebrate peace, prosperity, and humanity's shared legacy. We hope to see more Chinese tourists walking through the wonders of Petra.' This initiative follows a growing trend by the Petra authority to build global cultural bridges : similar twinning agreements have already been signed with the Colosseum in Rome and the Alhambra in Grenada, all aimed at reinforcing Petra's position as a global tourism hub. Petra, a masterpiece of Nabatean architecture carved into rose-red rock more than 2,000 years ago, remains a symbol of resilience, trade, and intercultural exchange. Likewise, the Great Wall, an architectural marvel and strategic fortress at the edge of China's ancient Silk Road – stands as a testament to China's imperial ingenuity and historic connectivity with the West. 'This agreement will enhance the Great Wall's standing on the global tourism map while creating exciting new opportunities for Petra in the Chinese market,' Zhao Shumin said. 'It opens the door to long-term cooperation rooted in cultural appreciation and mutual respect.' As two marvels of ancient civilization join hands in a modern pact, the Petra-Jiayuguan partnership sets a new precedent for how heritage sites can collaborate across borders – not just to attract visitors, but to inspire cultural understanding in a deeply interconnected world.
Daily Tribune
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Tribune
Rally Jameel 2025 kicks off in Jordan
TDT | Petra Rally Jameel, the first women-only navigational rally in the Middle East, kicked off its fourth edition in the historic city of Petra, marking its first-ever cross-border expansion beyond Saudi Arabia. The opening ceremony welcomed key Jordanian figures, including Dr. Fares Braizat, Chief Commissioner of PDTRA; EYazan Mahadin, PDTRA Tourism Commissioner; Emad Ali Al Helalat, PDTRA Tourism Director; Mr. Muayyad Abu Rumman, CEO of JHRC; and Mr. Zaid Balqez, CEO of Jordan Motorsport. Spanning five days and 1,600 kilometres, the rally charts a course from Petra through Tabuk, AlUla, Hail, and ends in Qassim. The route highlights the natural beauty and cultural heritage of both Jordan and Saudi Arabia, echoing the ancient Nabataean trade routes that once linked Petra and AlUla. This year, 41 teams representing 37 countries are taking part, with four teams unable to conf i r m participation due to minor logistical issues. Rally Jameel continues to grow as a global platform for women in motorsport, promoting empowerment, inclusion, and regional tourism. Munir Khoja, Managing Director at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, said: 'Launching Rally Jameel in Petra is a pivotal step toward elevating women's motorsport while expanding Saudi Arabia's global sporting presence.' Zaid Balqez of Jordan Motorsport added: 'This partnership reflects our shared vision to position the Middle East as a destination for inclusive, worldclass motor - sport experiences.' Rally Jameel 2025 is the most ambitious edition yet—combining adventure, cultural exchange, and sporting excellence. It strengthens the region's role in the global motorsport scene while celebrating the resilience, talent, and leadership of women drivers.
Arab News
23-04-2025
- Automotive
- Arab News
Rally Jameel gets underway, route expands beyond Saudi Arabia's historic sites
PETRA: Starting in the ancient city of Petra, Rally Jameel, the first women-only navigational rally in the Middle East, got underway on Tuesday with the participation of 41 teams from 37 countries. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The official ceremony for the 4th edition of Rally Jameel was attended by prominent Jordanian figures, including Dr. Fares Braizat, chief commissioner of Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority. Spanning five days and covering a 1,600-kilometer route through two countries, this year's rally is a historic expansion beyond Saudi Arabia. The route begins in Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and winds through Tabuk, a city framed by striking mountain ranges and ancient trade routes; AlUla, renowned for its dramatic rock formations; Hail, long considered the heart of the Arabian Peninsula's caravan trade; and concludes in Qassim, a region celebrated for its rich agricultural traditions — offering participants a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Munir Khoja, managing director at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, said: 'The launch of Rally Jameel 2025 in Petra marks a pivotal step in our ambition to elevate women's motorsport and expand Saudi Arabia's presence on the global sporting stage. 'As we expand beyond borders, we remain committed to empowering women through world-class sporting opportunities that challenge and inspire, in line with Vision 2030. This year's edition reflects the spirit of exploration, resilience, and cross-cultural connection that has always defined Rally Jameel, and we are extremely proud to support this journey and the incredible women driving it forward.' Zaid Balqez, CEO of Jordan Motorsport said: 'Hosting the launch of Rally Jameel here in Petra is a proud milestone for us, one that underscores the strength and potential of regional partnerships. Our collaboration with Jameel Motorsport reflects a shared vision to elevate the profile of motorsport across the region, not only as a competitive discipline, but as a platform for empowerment, cultural exchange, and adventure tourism. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and globally connected motorsport ecosystem that positions the Middle East as a leading destination for world-class sporting experiences.' The five-day event continues to set new benchmarks in global motorsport. With growing international participation and expanded geographic reach, the rally is carving out a lasting legacy. It reveals not only elite navigational talent, but also the region's evolving landscape of opportunity, ambition and leadership for women.
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.
