Aqaba receives 86,000 tourists in January
AMMAN — The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) on Tuesday announced that the gulf city received a "record" 86,000 local and foreign tourists during January.
ASEZA Deputy Chairman and Commissioner for Economic Development and Tourism Hamza Haj Hassan on Tuesday said that this number reflects ASEZA's "strategic" plan in the tourism sector, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.
He said that the number of tourists in January marked an increase of nearly 103 per cent at a two-night stay rate, where the number of Jordanians reached 48,000 visitors, accounting for 55 per cent, and 38,000 foreign tourists.
The percentage of hotel reservations during the same month was nearly 50 per cent, recording an increase of 84 per cent, and the highest percentage was for 4-star hotels.
He added that the tourist port of Aqaba received two tourist ships carrying 3,000 tourists, while Wadi Rum received 12,000 tourists during January, stressing that the authority seeks to increase these numbers through tourism plans and programmes.
Hajj Hassan pointed out that these figures came as a result of the programmes and activities implemented by ASEZA within its strategic plan, the most important of which is the launch of the Aqaba Carnival for Tourism and Shopping and the Aqaba Waves Festival.
He added that such activities contributed to activating local and foreign tourism movement despite the difficult regional conditions.
In light of halting 23 charter routes to Aqaba, the ASEZA seeks to find new tourist markets, mainly Saudi Arabia, whose tourists to Aqaba increased by 55 per cent in January, he added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Jordan News
3 days ago
- Jordan News
6% Decline in Number of Jordanians Traveling Abroad for Tourism - Jordan News
Tourism experts have emphasized the importance of supporting domestic tourism amid a decline in the number of Jordanians traveling abroad for tourism. According to preliminary official data published by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and based on Central Bank figures, the number of Jordanians who traveled abroad during the first half of this year reached 806,970, marking a 5.8% decrease compared to the same period last year. اضافة اعلان Experts stressed the need to provide suitable tourism infrastructure to encourage locals to explore domestic destinations. They also recommended expanding the 'Our Jordan is Paradise' program ('Urdunna Jannah') to include more destinations with a variety of affordable hotel options, along with promotional offers tailored for local tourists. According to the data: In 2023, the number of Jordanians traveling abroad during the first half of the year totaled 856,776, with monthly breakdowns as follows: January: 136,538 February: 132,495 March: 116,756 April: 125,535 May: 118,152 June: 227,300 In 2024, the number totaled 806,970, with monthly figures as: January: 159,085 February: 129,749 March: 126,032 April: 113,692 May: 118,957 June: 159,455 Causes of Decline Experts agree that the reduction in low-cost flight options to and from Jordan amid regional tensions has contributed significantly to the drop in Jordanian travelers. Additionally, rising travel costs to popular destinations like Turkey have made foreign tourism less attractive. Industry Insights Mohammad Al-Qassem, a member of the Jordan Hotels Association and tourism expert, confirmed that reduced low-cost flight frequencies and geopolitical developments, along with rising travel costs, have led to a drop in outbound tourism. He noted that a 5.8% decrease may not be dramatic, but it's an indicator that domestic tourism needs more support. Al-Qassem stressed that travel is important for exposure to new cultures and experiences, and shouldn't be heavily restricted, but encouraged alongside local tourism growth. He also pointed out that economic challenges and declining income have made it difficult for many to afford travel. Al-Qassem emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure in northern Jordan, and offering low-cost hotels to attract tourists, especially during summer, as alternatives to warmer destinations like the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Northern sites such as Ajloun Castle, Umm Qais, and Jerash offer attractive options. He also proposed comprehensive tour programs that include interaction with local communities, traditional meals, and cultural experiences, which would also boost the local economy. Al-Qassem called for an expansion of the 'Urdunna Jannah' program, suggesting it should include more destinations and operate throughout the week, not just on weekends. He concluded that a successful tourism sector requires strong infrastructure, a complete tourism product, and public-private partnerships to manage and improve tourist sites without compromising heritage. Geopolitical Impact Nidal Malu Al-Ain, another tourism expert, said the decline in travel is mainly due to the halt of low-cost flights, which were heavily used for trips to Europe. He also cited economic constraints, income decline, and regional geopolitical instability as key factors. Al-Ain believes that many Jordanians are interested in domestic tourism and prefer spending their vacation days in Jordan—provided that affordable tourism facilities are available. He emphasized the need to establish a model of 'popular tourism' with comprehensive and budget-friendly services, especially for middle-income groups. He urged expansion of the 'Urdunna Jannah' program or launching a new initiative aimed at encouraging domestic travel through promotional packages. Al-Ain also suggested supporting existing tourism facilities by reducing operational costs (e.g., energy bills) and offering deferred financial obligations to tourism businesses. He proposed that hotels offer promotions like free nights with bookings. 'Urdunna Jannah' Program Mahmoud Al-Khasawneh, another tourism specialist, said that regional instability is a major reason for the drop in outbound tourism. He emphasized that domestic tourism must be improved to reduce the number of Jordanians traveling abroad. He noted that while the government-run 'Urdunna Jannah' program plays an important role, a private-sector-driven counterpart should also be developed to offer exclusive packages, especially for Jordanian expatriates returning during the summer. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the program recorded 79,017 participants between April and July 2025. The program was temporarily suspended in December 2024, and resumed in April 2025. Participation figures since resumption are: April: 5,193 participants May: 36,991 participants June: 13,681 participants July (to date): 23,152 participants Previously, the Jordan Society of Travel and Tourism Agents stated that Turkey (Antalya, Trabzon, Istanbul) and Egypt (particularly Sharm El Sheikh) remain the top destinations for Jordanians traveling abroad.
Jordan News
5 days ago
- Jordan News
Jordan's Central Bank Governor Projects Over 4% Medium-Term Economic Growth - Jordan News
Governor of the Central Bank of Jordan, Dr. Adel Al-Sharkas, affirmed that the national economy continues to grow steadily despite regional geopolitical challenges, thanks to a comprehensive economic modernization vision that redefined Jordan's approach to reform. اضافة اعلان Speaking during a policy dialogue organized by the Jordan Strategy Forum titled "Reform, Stability, Resilience: The Economic Trinity in a Changing World", Al-Sharkas emphasized the transition from reactive, short-term policy approaches to a proactive and integrated strategy aimed at enhancing economic resilience and sustainability. Key Highlights: Growth Outlook: The Central Bank estimates real GDP growth at 2.7% for 2025, with projections exceeding 4% by 2028, driven by large-scale infrastructure projects tied to the Economic Modernization Vision. Macroeconomic Resilience: Jordan's economy is backed by a robust monetary and fiscal framework, institutional strength, and a sound banking sector. These fundamentals have garnered growing international investor confidence, reflected in the declining yields of Jordan's Eurobonds in secondary markets. Growth Performance (2021–2024): The average growth rate stood at 2.9%, the highest since 2010, attributed to improvements in productivity, technological adoption, and human capital development. Investment contributed 40% to this growth, while the external sector accounted for 38%. Export & Energy Performance: National exports reached new markets, with non-traditional exports contributing 20.9% of GDP in 2024, up from 16.2% in 2016. Meanwhile, energy import costs dropped to 7% of GDP, down from a third in 2012, due to diversified energy sources and long-term gas agreements. Tourism and FDI: Despite a slight dip in June due to regional tensions, tourism revenues rose 11.9% in H1 2025, reaching $3.7 billion, with expectations to hit $7.7 billion by year's end. FDI inflows amounted to $1.6 billion (3.1% of GDP) in 2024, and remittances from Jordanians abroad rose to $3.6 billion, projected to reach $3.7 billion in 2025. Monetary Stability: Inflation was kept around 2% in H1 2025. The Jordanian dinar remains strong, supported by $22 billion in foreign reserves, covering 8.4 months of imports. The banking sector continues to expand credit facilities, with loans rising to JOD 35.3 billion in May 2025 and total deposits hitting JOD 47.7 billion. Financial Inclusion & Digital Payments: The Central Bank increased financial inclusion to 43.1% by 2022 and aims for 65% by 2028, while closing the gender gap from 53% to 22%. Digital transactions grew significantly, with over 537 million transactions totaling JOD 55.3 billion in 2024—equivalent to 146% of GDP. Fiscal Outlook: The government aims to reduce the primary deficit to 2% of GDP by 2025, targeting a primary surplus by 2027. The public debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to fall below 80% by 2028. Forward-Looking Plans: Preparations are underway for the 2026–2029 Executive Program of the Economic Modernization Vision, with new initiatives focusing on digitization, fintech, innovation, and expanded financial inclusion. Sectoral Collaboration & Private Dialogue Jordan Strategy Forum Chair Sharif Fares Sharaf emphasized the need for resilient policies amid global instability, while Executive Director Nisreen Barakat reaffirmed the Forum's role in facilitating evidence-based policy discussions. The session also featured input from Nadia Al-Saeed, who stressed the importance of regulatory clarity and effective banking oversight. Topics discussed included virtual asset legislation, SME support, and public-private partnerships in navigating economic uncertainties. Governor Al-Sharkas concluded with a direct Q&A session, addressing key economic concerns raised by forum participants and reaffirming the Central Bank's commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.
Jordan News
7 days ago
- Jordan News
Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence: Mohammad Abu Odeh at 50 - Jordan News
As Mohammad Abu Odeh embarks on a new chapter of his life, turning 50 on July 27, he stands as a testament to the power of enduring legacy and unwavering dedication. اضافة اعلان I recently watched an interview on Amman TV, conducted by the talented Rahaf Sawalha, which sparked my interest in a remarkable business leader whose profile and philosophy offer valuable lessons worth sharing. For this visionary Jordanian entrepreneur, success transcends mere financial triumphs and key performance metrics. His achievements are a profound reflection of a meaningful legacy built on the bedrock of sincerity, family values, and an unshakeable commitment to community and country. The secret to Abu Odeh Group's longevity lies in its CEO's relentless effort to instill authenticity and genuine values – not just within family stakeholders, but deep within the hearts of every employee, customer, and community member who interacts with their services and products. These values serve as the ship's stabilizer, providing balance and direction through life's turbulent storms. The preservation of his father's 50-year-old grocery store is a poignant manifestation of Abu Odeh's commitment to legacy. He and his brothers have meticulously preserved this iconic shop, a living testament to the family's enduring presence and unwavering dedication to their community. His unique business philosophy is deeply rooted in the profound lessons imparted by his late mother, God bless her soul. She taught him that leadership is a divine trust, not merely an honor: "If Allah chooses you to lead, He has already endowed you with the strength necessary to carry the weight of responsibility." Her second invaluable lesson echoed in his mind: "When you deliver results, deliver them flawlessly. I believe you can." These words have become an uncompromising standard, guiding every project and venture. Underpinning every plan is a win-win formula, a strategy that seeks to harmoniously balance the growth of Abu Odeh group, benefit the family, generate employment opportunities for Jordanians, and enrich the national economy. Unlike traditional businessmen driven by short-term gains, Abu Odeh crafts plans that ensure generational continuity and sustainability. As he celebrates his birthday, the wisdom of his father and mother continues to illuminate his path, instilling in him the values that define him today. He has tirelessly worked to meet and surpass their expectations, achieving remarkable accomplishments that benefit not only his family but an ever-growing circle of Jordanians. Happy 50th birthday, Mohammad Abu Odeh. Your parents' legacy lives on through you, and we are all honored to bear witness to your remarkable journey. ###
