Petra, Jordan’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), becoming the first city in the Arab World to do so. This move signifies Petra’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices, ensuring the long-term preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. The decision follows a comprehensive Destination Assessment and training programs for key stakeholders in the tourism sector.
Petra, the ancient Jordanian city, has taken a significant step towards sustainable tourism by joining the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This move reflects the city’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage while appealing to the growing number of environmentally conscious travelers. The initiative involves training, qualification processes, and awareness campaigns to ensure responsible tourism practices across all sectors.
Jordan’s tourism sector is experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by visa-free access for 11 countries, attracting visitors to iconic sites like Petra and Wadi Rum. The country’s rich cultural heritage, luxurious hotels, and diverse travel experiences are fueling a remarkable increase in tourist arrivals and revenue, positioning Jordan as a premier global destination.
The United Nations Tourism has launched new investment guidelines for Jordan, highlighting its potential for growth in the post-pandemic era. The guidelines emphasize Jordan’s attractive heritage sites, including Petra, and its flourishing tourism sector. The country has experienced a surge in tourism in the first quarter of 2023, with a 90.7% increase compared to pre-COVID levels. Jordan is also implementing various strategies to enhance its competitiveness and investment frameworks, including the Economic Modernization Vision (2023 – 2030), the Investment Promotion Strategy (2023 – 2026), and the Jordan National Tourism Strategy (2021 – 2025). These initiatives aim to attract an estimated USD 3.8 billion in tourism sector investments by 2033.
