Jordan is harnessing all its resources and efforts to overcome the repercussions of ongoing regional developments on its tourism sector, through an integrated vision aimed at protecting the gains of this vital industry and gradually restoring tourism momentum.
اضافة اعلان
In a session held on Saturday, the Cabinet approved a decision under which the government will cover the interest costs on new loans granted to tourism offices and hotels (excluding five-star hotels) by banks operating in the Kingdom. These loans will be provided in line with the banks' credit policies, and within the framework of the Central Bank of Jordan’s economic sectors financing program.
Stakeholders in the tourism sector emphasized the importance of this government decision, noting that it offers direct support that enhances the sustainability of tourism establishments and preserves their operational capacity amid current challenges. They described the move as a realistic and well-considered response by the government to the regional conditions that have weighed on tourism performance.
In comments to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), they explained that the decision not only eases financial burdens on tourism businesses, but also strengthens their ability to retain staff, sustain operations, and safeguard local tourism expertise. They called for continued supportive initiatives to ensure the recovery and resilience of the sector as a major contributor to the national economy.
Dr. Raef Al-Tahat, spokesperson for the Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents, praised the Cabinet's decision as wise and instrumental in helping tourism offices restructure their financial situation, especially in light of declining outbound tourism due to regional instability.
He added that the decision will assist offices in covering employee salaries, preserving jobs, and paying Social Security contributions—thereby enhancing sustainability and enabling businesses to maintain their roles.
Tourism expert Dr. Ibrahim Al-Kurdi from the Aqaba branch of the University of Jordan's Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality, described the measures as a significant step in supporting the tourism sector. He said they reduce financial pressure on travel agencies and small-to-medium-sized hotels, the groups most vulnerable to crises.
Dr. Al-Kurdi noted that the government's targeted support for the most affected segments—those with limited self-capacity to withstand economic shocks—will help prevent the closure of small and medium enterprises, preserve diversity in the tourism infrastructure, and enhance their ability to gradually recover and remain in the market.
He added that the decision will positively impact investor and employee confidence in the tourism sector, showing the government’s commitment to adopting flexible, responsive policies. It will also promote the sector’s sustainability, enabling it to overcome the crisis and revive its activity without losing skilled labor or valuable resources.
Meanwhile, Nabeih Riyal, a member of the Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association, welcomed the government’s move to cover the interest on new loans for tourism offices and hotels. He stressed the decision’s timely importance, especially since inbound tourism continues to face major challenges due to regional turmoil, the aftermath of the war on Gaza, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Riyal pointed out that tourism employees possess valuable skills and accumulated experience that must be preserved. He urged a comprehensive approach to enhance the sector’s sustainability and support its ability to navigate both current and future crises.
The Cabinet’s decision stipulates that, to benefit from the government support, new loans must be exclusively allocated for covering the salaries and wages of employees at eligible tourism offices and hotels (excluding five-star hotels) for a period of three months, or for paying their Social Security contributions. These loans must be repaid within 24 months, including a six-month grace period starting from the date the funding is disbursed. The decision remains in effect until the end of September.
— (Petra)
