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.
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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.
