Amman: The government has approved a comprehensive package of decisions aimed at supporting the tourism sector in Petra, safeguarding more than 1,700 jobs amid ongoing challenges. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to mitigating the adverse effects witnessed in the tourism sector over recent years.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Cabinet's decision involves 11 measures with an estimated budget of JD5 million. These measures are designed to support employee wages, postpone loan installments, and reschedule tax payments, as well as electricity and water fees. The package seeks to sustain tourism establishments and enhance the sector's recovery and sustainability.
Adnan Sawa'ir, Chairman of Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), emphasized that Petra has been grappling with cumulative challenges since 2019. These challenges stem from the COVID-19 pandemic and regional unrest, both of which have significantly impacted tourism. Sawa'ir described the government package as an "unprecedented" move, warmly welcomed by local residents and sector workers due to its direct impact on economic activity.
The Cabinet's strategy includes launching new tourist programs to attract visitors and extend their stays, targeting both Arab and international markets. Sawa'ir highlighted that support is directed at hotels, camps, tourist facilities, and related sectors, prioritizing the protection of jobs under current circumstances.
Petra, a key destination affected by the decline in foreign tourism, features prominently in 85% of foreign tourist travel plans to Jordan. This reliance on international tourism means that any fluctuations in air travel have a direct impact on Petra's economy.
Complementing the Cabinet's decisions, PDTRA has initiated measures to assist investors and businesses in the region. These include exempting new commercial market tenants from service charges, totaling JD24,000, and relieving businesses from waste collection fees. Additionally, PDTRA has waived late payment penalties for tenants, amounting to JD30,000, to alleviate financial burdens.
Dr. Sami Hasanat, a tourism crisis management expert, praised the government's efforts as a "direct" rescue package. He noted that these measures address liquidity crises and operational costs, ensuring the stability of businesses and employees. The initiatives are expected to directly protect over 1,600 jobs and reinstate workers under social security.