Latest news with #LinaAnnab
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Jordan: Prime minister inspects public facilities in Aqaba's Wadi Araba, orders improvement to services
AMMAN — Prime Jafar Hassan conducted an inspection tour on Wednesday across five sites in Wadi Araba district, Aqaba Governorate, as part of his routine field visits to different parts of the Kingdom. During the visit, the prime minister inspected two healthcare centres, a school, the Faynan Museum, and the Feynan Ecolodge. At the Rahmeh Primary Health Centre, Hassan listened to feedback from medical staff, patients, and local residents, directing that the centre be equipped with essential medical devices and specialties, and undergoes general maintenance, according to a Prime Ministry statement. He also visited the Risha Comprehensive Health Centre, where he met with citizens and patients, instructed the provision of needed equipment and specialties, and called for the expansion and modernization of the laboratory and its devices. At a mixed secondary school, the Prime Minister heard from teachers regarding the school's needs and directed the creation of new classrooms, a library, a garden, and the upgrade of school facilities and its playground. Accompanied by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab, Hassan toured Wadi Faynan, where he visited the Faynan Museum, home to artefacts dating back to ancient times and a key tourism attraction in the area. On the sidelines of the visit, he met with local community leaders to hear their feedback on improving tourism and public services. Established in 2018, the Faynan Museum features a scale model of Wadi Faynan, stone tools from ancient periods, and various archaeological and natural displays. The Prime Minister also visited the Feynan Ecolodge, recognized as one of the world's top eco-lodges. He directed the expansion of the solar energy project powering the lodge, aimed at reducing operational costs and boosting tourism. The solar expansion is expected to allow year-round operation of the lodge, especially during the high-demand summer months, thus increasing its visitor capacity. The lodge supports the livelihoods of around 80 local families and is regarded as a global model for eco-tourism, having won more than 40 international awards. Prime Minister Hassan was accompanied on the tour by Aqaba Governor Khaled Hajjaj. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( JT
Jordan Times
21-05-2025
- Health
- Jordan Times
Prime minister inspects public facilities in Aqaba's Wadi Araba, orders improvement to services
Prime Jafar Hassan at Rahmeh Primary Health Centre in Wadi Araba during his visit to the southern district on Wednesday (Photo courtesy of Prime Ministry) AMMAN — Prime Jafar Hassan conducted an inspection tour on Wednesday across five sites in Wadi Araba district, Aqaba Governorate, as part of his routine field visits to different parts of the Kingdom. During the visit, the prime minister inspected two healthcare centres, a school, the Faynan Museum, and the Feynan Ecolodge. At the Rahmeh Primary Health Centre, Hassan listened to feedback from medical staff, patients, and local residents, directing that the centre be equipped with essential medical devices and specialties, and undergoes general maintenance, according to a Prime Ministry statement. He also visited the Risha Comprehensive Health Centre, where he met with citizens and patients, instructed the provision of needed equipment and specialties, and called for the expansion and modernization of the laboratory and its devices. At a mixed secondary school, the Prime Minister heard from teachers regarding the school's needs and directed the creation of new classrooms, a library, a garden, and the upgrade of school facilities and its playground. Accompanied by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab, Hassan toured Wadi Faynan, where he visited the Faynan Museum, home to artefacts dating back to ancient times and a key tourism attraction in the area. On the sidelines of the visit, he met with local community leaders to hear their feedback on improving tourism and public services. Established in 2018, the Faynan Museum features a scale model of Wadi Faynan, stone tools from ancient periods, and various archaeological and natural displays. The Prime Minister also visited the Feynan Ecolodge, recognized as one of the world's top eco-lodges. He directed the expansion of the solar energy project powering the lodge, aimed at reducing operational costs and boosting tourism. The solar expansion is expected to allow year-round operation of the lodge, especially during the high-demand summer months, thus increasing its visitor capacity. The lodge supports the livelihoods of around 80 local families and is regarded as a global model for eco-tourism, having won more than 40 international awards. Prime Minister Hassan was accompanied on the tour by Aqaba Governor Khaled Hajjaj.
Jordan Times
18-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
MENA Travel Market Forum launches in Amman, showcases Jordan's tourism potential
The MENA Travel Market Forum kicks off on Sunday in Amman, bringing over 90 exhibitors from 18 countries, bringing more than 1,500 visitors from the global tourism and travel sectors (Petra photo) AMMAN — The MENA Travel Market Forum opened on Sunday in Amman, bringing together over 90 exhibitors from 18 countries and drawing more than 1,500 visitors and professionals from the global tourism and travel sectors. Deputising for the prime minister, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab inaugurated the event alongside Secretary-General of the Ministry Fadi Balawi and Director-General of the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat. Annab toured the pavilions of participating tourism, travel, and aviation companies. The forum honoured several "influential" figures for their contributions to advancing the tourism sector. Among those recognised were former minister of tourism and Chairman of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Nayef Fayez, and Director-General of the Jordan Tourism Board and CEO of Royal Jordanian Airlines Samer Majali. They were acknowledged for their dedication to promoting tourism and enhancing Jordan's standing as a "premier" travel destination. Arabiyat said that JTB, in collaboration with the private sector, is committed to enabling "unique" events that highlight Jordan's diverse offerings from its natural beauty and year-round climate to its readiness to host major international conferences and exhibitions. "We are proud of the distinguished tourism forums hosted in Jordan," he noted. "Plans are underway for a second, more diverse edition of this event, which we aim to hold in Aqaba due to its strategic location and advanced tourist infrastructure,' he noted. Arabiyat also announced the recent launch of an incentive programme to boost conference tourism and called for broad participation in future editions. Forum CEO Khaled Shanana said that the event aims to provide a comprehensive platform that brings together tourism decision-makers and industry leaders to foster regional cooperation and expand opportunities for joint action. He also highlighted Jordan's "key" regional role, supported by its stability, security and modern infrastructure. Forum Director-General Mutasem Dalabih said that the event presents a "unique" opportunity to showcase the Kingdom's tourism assets and connect domestic institutions with global counterparts to build long-term strategic partnerships. The forum serves as a "major" regional platform linking travel companies, hotels, airlines, government agencies and investors to share experiences and explore cooperation opportunities. The event also aligns with the Kingdom's Economic Modernisation Vision and reinforces Jordan's role as a regional hub for tourism and international exhibitions. The two-day programme includes panel discussions and lectures by top international experts, addressing topics such as aviation's future, digital transformation, sustainable tourism and ecotourism, artificial intelligence, tourism investment and collaborative promotion strategies.
Jordan News
13-05-2025
- Jordan News
What Does Jordan Offer on the Global Religious Tourism Map? - Jordan News
Amman – Jordan is a prominent destination for religious tourism in the Middle East, as the kingdom boasts a rich history that reflects the succession of civilizations on its land. This is due to the sacred sites and historical landmarks related to Christian pilgrimage sites and Islamic historical sites, making religious tourism in Jordan a key pillar in promoting understanding between nations and spreading values of tolerance. It also helps in marketing the country as a global religious destination, supporting the national economy by attracting visitors from all around the world. اضافة اعلان As part of its efforts to develop religious and cultural tourism and enhance the kingdom's status as a leading Christian pilgrimage destination, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan, in collaboration with the Vatican, organized a press conference titled "Jordan: The Dawn of Christianity" last Wednesday. According to Minister of Tourism Lina Annab, Jordan will organize, in cooperation with the Vatican, a heritage exhibition in the Vatican as part of the ministry's efforts to highlight "Jordan's importance as the dawn of the Christian religion." In her speech at the press conference, Minister Annab stated that more than 90 rare archaeological pieces, carefully selected to tell the story of Jordan's intertwined heritage with the roots of Christianity, would be exhibited. These artifacts include intricate mosaics and ancient symbols, such as the fish symbol, one of the most important and rarest artifacts in the history of Christianity. She pointed out that the exhibition highlights discoveries that narrate the development of Christianity in Jordan through the ages. Attractions The exhibition will take visitors on a journey through time to explore sacred sites in Jordan, which are key Christian pilgrimage destinations recognized by the Vatican. Among the most prominent of these are: Mount Elias, the birthplace of the Prophet Elijah; the Church of Our Lady of the Mountain in Anjara, which commemorates the Virgin Mary; Mount Nebo, the burial site of Prophet Moses (near Madaba); Machaerus, the site of the martyrdom of John the Baptist (Prophet Yahya ibn Zakaria); and the Baptism Site of Christ, where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist at the Baptism site on the Jordan River. The Baptism Site is a sacred location for Christians, attracting pilgrims from around the world. It is home to many churches belonging to various Christian denominations, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other prominent attractions for Christian religious tourism in Jordan include the Church of St. George in Madaba, famous for the 6th-century Madaba Mosaic Map, which depicts the Holy Lands according to Christians. Also noteworthy is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers (a shared Islamic and Christian heritage site), where it is believed the seven youths mentioned in the Quran and the Bible slept. The cave is located in the Raqim area near the capital, Amman. On the other hand, the Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board, Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, stated that Islamic and Christian religious tourism in Jordan is "exceptionally distinguished." Jordan offers "Umrah Plus" programs, which attract Muslims from faraway countries who, after performing the Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, come to Jordan to visit the tombs of the companions and prophets. Jordan contains many tombs of companions and prophets. Among the most prominent prophet tombs in Jordan are the Tomb of Prophet Shu'ayb near Salt, and the Tomb of Prophet Aaron in Petra. In Jordan, approximately 10,000 companions died, including prominent figures like Abu Ubayda Amir ibn al-Jarrah, Mu'adh ibn Jabal, Sharhabil ibn Hasna, with their graves known, along with the shrine of companions like Ja'far ibn Abi Talib, Abdullah ibn Rawaha, and Zayd ibn Haritha, commanders of the Battle of Mu'tah. Arabiyat added that major Islamic battles, such as the Battle of Yarmouk and the Battle of Mu'tah, occurred on Jordanian soil, making it a unique religious and tourism experience, with well-planned programs for this purpose. Marketing Plans Arabiyat also mentioned that the Jordan Tourism Board has marketing plans and ambitious tourism products and experiences for 2025 that serve the aspirations of both Arab and international tourists. He added in his conversation with Al Jazeera, that this year brings many major and distinguished tourism events, with over 60 events – the first of their kind in Jordan. "We are working on attracting Arab tourists to Jordan, especially as the weather in the kingdom is moderate. In fact, Amman is perhaps the only Arab capital in the region that can host outdoor events in such mild weather." According to data from the Jordan Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the number of tourists arriving in Jordan from Arab countries in 2024 was approximately 3.27 million, a 0.7% increase compared to 2023. The number of Jordanian expatriates who visited the country was 1.7 million. Saudi nationals ranked first, followed by Kuwaitis in second place, as the most frequent Arab visitors to Jordan, followed by Bahrainis in third place, then Omanis, Emiratis, and Qataris. A decrease of 3% was recorded in the total number of tourists coming to Jordan in 2024, with the total reaching 6.1 million, compared to 6.3 million tourists in 2023, due to the repercussions of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip.
Jordan News
21-04-2025
- Jordan News
Jordan's Ministry of Tourism and Aqaba Authority Organize Field Visit for Dr. Zahi Hawass in Aqaba - Jordan News
During his visit to the Jordanian city of Aqaba, renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass praised the level of archaeological and restoration work in the Kingdom, emphasizing that Jordan possesses a rich and diverse cultural heritage stretching from the Islamic eras to even earlier periods, comparable in significance to the world's most prominent archaeological sites. اضافة اعلان The visit was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in collaboration with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, and included the participation of Her Excellency Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab and His Excellency Nayef Al-Fayez, Chairman of the Aqaba Authority. The visit included a field tour of several key archaeological sites in Aqaba, such as the Byzantine Church, Aqaba Fortress, and the Islamic city of Ayla. Following the tour, a press conference was held at the site of Islamic Ayla, during which Dr. Hawass expressed great admiration for the restoration work carried out at the Byzantine Church, the fortress, and Ayla, describing them as exemplary models in the field of heritage preservation. He emphasized that Jordan, despite being an Islamic country, sets a unique example in respecting and preserving Christian and broader human heritage, evident in its restoration efforts and the passion of young Jordanians working in the archaeological sector. Dr. Hawass also described Jordan's Regional Center for Conservation and Restoration as one of the best in the Arab world, pointing out that training young Jordanian professionals represents a genuine investment in the future of heritage. Regarding the recent discovery of a hieroglyphic inscription in Wadi Rum, Hawass called it an 'unprecedented event' that highlights the deep historical connection between ancient Egypt and surrounding regions, and opens new doors for future research and collaboration between Egypt and Jordan. He expressed his joy at Jordan's focus on archaeology alongside tourism, stressing that attention to cultural heritage is key to attracting cultural tourism. Dr. Hawass concluded by saying: 'What I have seen in Jordan in terms of restorations and discoveries is a monumental cultural achievement. It sends a clear message that the Kingdom values its heritage and gives it the status it deserves.' He also expressed his desire to return for future joint excavations. Minister Lina Annab highlighted the special significance of the visit coinciding with World Heritage Day, emphasizing Jordan's message in safeguarding cultural heritage and national identity. She noted that Jordan is not merely a crossroads of civilizations, but a true homeland of civilizations, possessing the diversity and history that qualifies it as a global tourist destination. Annab emphasized that the restoration work witnessed—carried out by Jordanian hands—is a source of pride, reflecting the development of local skills in heritage preservation. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Hawass, who stated: 'Restoration is the backbone of preserving civilizations; without it, landmarks vanish and identities are lost.' The Minister also referred to a memorandum of understanding signed between the Department of Antiquities and the Zahi Hawass Foundation, aimed at expanding cooperation in excavation, restoration, and knowledge exchange. She reaffirmed that the visit's alignment with World Heritage Day adds symbolic weight to Jordan's heritage preservation message. For his part, His Excellency Nayef Al-Fayez praised Dr. Hawass's visit, considering it a spotlight on Aqaba's unique historical and cultural legacy, which strengthens its position as an integrated tourism destination combining sea, nature, and history. The visit underscored Aqaba's importance as a promising hub for cultural tourism and showcased Jordan's ongoing efforts in heritage protection and site development, enhancing the Kingdom's global tourism standing. Al-Fayez reaffirmed that Aqaba possesses all the elements of a comprehensive tourist destination that blends history, sea, and nature. He noted that hosting an international figure like Dr. Zahi Hawass helps highlight the city's cultural legacy and boosts its competitiveness as a prime destination for cultural, environmental, and leisure tourism.
