During the weekend, Al-Koura District in western Irbid Governorate witnessed significant activity from visitors and nature enthusiasts, as recreational movement increased across plains, valleys, and forests. Forested areas, natural reserves, and roadsides were crowded with visitors seeking the springtime outdoors.
اضافة اعلان
Thousands of visitors, including tourists from Gulf countries, flocked to several natural and ecological sites in the district, which saw notable tourist activity. Popular spots included Deir Al-Asal with its green hills, Barqash Forests, the springs of Wadi Al-Rayan, as well as Wadi Zalqab and Abu Ziyad, and the forests of Jdita, Kafr Abil, Kafr Awan, Beit Idis, Kafr Rakeb, Jufin, and Jneen Al-Safa, among other attractive spring locations.
Dr. Ahmad Al-Shreida, President of the Association for Human and Environmental Development, said that Al-Koura is among the most prominent natural tourism destinations in northern Jordan, due to its ecological sites, waterfalls, and springs. He noted that some sites still require further attention and development, especially in improving infrastructure to facilitate visitor access and enhance tourism sustainability.
Al-Shreida added that the influx of visitors positively impacts local commerce and the economy, benefiting shops, restaurants, and service facilities, thereby supporting the local economy and boosting tourism-related sectors. He also urged visitors to maintain cleanliness at recreational sites, emphasizing that environmental protection is a shared responsibility among authorities, local communities, and visitors.
Kthib Al-Ghazzawi, Head of the Barqash Municipality Committee, noted that tourist sites in Al-Koura, particularly the Barqash forests and surrounding natural areas, are an important contributor to domestic tourism due to their environmental diversity and attractive landscapes. He highlighted that municipalities, in cooperation with relevant authorities, are working to improve services and infrastructure at recreational sites to match the growing visitor numbers.
Al-Ghazzawi stressed that preserving forests and natural sites requires cooperation from citizens and visitors by avoiding open fires outside designated areas, collecting waste, and maintaining public facilities, underlining that environmental awareness is key to protecting these natural assets and leveraging them for tourism development.
— (Petra – Ashraf Al-Ghazzawi)
