AMMAN — The ancient city of Petra has witnessed a historic
surge in tourism, with approximately 700,000 visitors from various
nationalities flocking to the iconic site during the first half of the current
year.
اضافة اعلان
These figures, released by the Petra Development and Tourism
Region Authority (PDTRA), represent the highest number of visitors ever
recorded in the history of Petra tourism.
The
chief commissioner of the PDTRA, Suleiman Farajat,
hailed this achievement and highlighted the continued global demand for Petra
as a unique tourist destination, according to Ad-Dustour daily.
A remarkable growth trend
The number of visitors to Petra during the first half of
this year increased by a staggering 102 percent compared to the same period
last year when the total visitor count stood at around 345,713.
The PDTRA expects the total number of visitors by the end of the tourist year to reach approximately 1.5 million.
Furthermore, this year's figures also marked a 29 percent
increase compared to the same period in 2019, which recorded approximately
539,363 visitors.
Notably, June of last year witnessed the highest number of
visitors since the inception of Petra's tourism journey, with about 87,373
visitors from diverse nationalities.
Farajat pointed out that this increase in the number of
visitors demonstrates the non-seasonal nature of
tourism in Petra and the
stability and significance of Jordan as a preferred tourist destination.
He revealed that preparations are underway to welcome 1
million visitors to Petra in October of this year, a milestone that will be
achieved for the second time in the city's history.
The
PDTRA expects the total number of visitors by the end of
the tourist year to reach approximately 1.5 million.
Enhancing the tourist experience
Given the surge in visitor numbers, the PDTRA has taken
proactive measures to improve the archaeological site and diversify its
pathways. Efforts are also being made to address any violations and ensure the
best possible presentation of the city to its visitors.
In order to alleviate pressure on the archaeological site
and preserve its historical heritage, the authority plans to operate
transportation from the back road of Petra, open the cultural village to
visitors, and continue diversifying the tourism products offered to enrich the
variety of tourist destinations in the city.
The PDTRA also intends to review partnerships with local
community associations to enhance employment opportunities for the local
population and improve the overall tourism process within the archaeological
site.
Investments and future programs
Farajat unveiled plans for several tourism programs that
will be launched this year, including the fixed balloon project and off-road
vehicles in the Beidha area.
The popular Rose City Nights festival will continue, aiming
to attract visitors from diverse tourism markets and stimulate tourism and
commercial activities in the region. Furthermore, additional hotel rooms and
tourism investments are set to open, providing advanced services to visitors.
The PDTRA also intends to review partnerships with local community associations to enhance employment opportunities for the local population and improve the overall tourism process within the archaeological site.
The PDTRA emphasized its commitment to facilitating
investment in the region and expects the completion of the bidding process for
the establishment of a conference palace in Petra.
Additionally, an alternative road to connect the city center
with the tourist area will be completed, and the fleet of electric vehicles
within the archaeological site will be expanded to better serve visitors.
A vision for global tourism growth
Farajat emphasized the PDTRA's dedication to implementing
infrastructure and service projects to develop Petra as a global tourist city
that benefits both residents and visitors.
The authority, he said, remains committed to its
partnerships with official entities such as the Ministry of Tourism, the Jordan
Tourism Board, and the private sector to promote and market the city in
international tourism forums.
Farajat attributed the recent tourist activity in Petra to
the concerted efforts of the authority, official entities, private sector, and
local communities, who have played a pivotal role in showcasing the best of
Petra and the Kingdom's tourism offerings.
The PDTRA reaffirmed its commitment to serving Petra as the
gateway to Jordanian tourism and preserving its status as a crucial world
heritage site, aiming to achieve comprehensive development in the region and
all its population centers.
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