Amman: The "Urdun Jannah" domestic tourism program has witnessed substantial participation in its inaugural month, with around 51,000 individuals engaging in 1,422 trips and utilizing bus services.
According to Jordan News Agency, the program involved a significant number of stakeholders, including 1,422 tour guides, 117 travel agencies, 81 restaurants, and 63 hotels and tourist camps. Additionally, 445 participants opted for direct bookings using their vehicles. Dr. Ahmed Rifai, the program's director and spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, highlighted the program's success during the Labor Day holiday, which coincided with a weekend, drawing in approximately 21,000 participants who traveled on 600 buses.
Dr. Rifai pointed out the heightened demand for domestic tourism during holidays and special occasions, with overnight stay programs in Petra experiencing increased turnout. Roughly 6,600 participants traveled on 344 buses, each accompanied by a tour guide, reflecting the growing interest in tourism programs and overnight stays in Petra.
He further elaborated on the popularity of target sites, stating that the northern governorates and the Golden Triangle region (Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba) saw increased demand. Additionally, newer destinations such as Iraq al-Amir, Umm ar-Rasas, and Rahab garnered significant interest. The remaining visitors explored various tourist spots across Jordan's governorates, showcasing the diversity of the country's tourism offerings.
The program, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, covers over 60 tourist destinations nationwide and is part of a broader governmental initiative to revitalize the tourism sector and promote domestic tourism. This initiative aims to support local communities, stimulate economic activity, and highlight Jordan's rich tourist attractions.
Furthermore, the program represents a comprehensive strategy to rejuvenate the tourism sector by engaging its various components, with the potential to expand economic benefits and foster local development throughout the Kingdom.