“Therapeutic Resort” Project Raises Hopes of Putting Ajloun on the Global Medical Tourism Map

“Therapeutic Resort” Project Raises Hopes of Putting Ajloun on the Global Medical Tourism Map
“Therapeutic Resort” Project Raises Hopes of Putting Ajloun on the Global Medical Tourism Map
With an investment value of 19 million dinars, the new therapeutic and wellness resort planned in Ajloun is being hailed as the largest tourism-related investment in the governorate and a potential game-changer for positioning the region on the global medical tourism scene.اضافة اعلان

Local stakeholders say the project could create hundreds of jobs and represent a significant economic addition, with positive effects extending to development efforts, tourism projects, and local markets. However, they also emphasize the need for improving infrastructure—especially roads—to ensure sustainable growth.

A Major Step Toward Global Recognition

Tourism specialist Suleiman Hashem expressed optimism, noting that the project’s announcement will have a positive impact on the future of tourism in Ajloun. He stressed the importance of supporting the investment climate to encourage various forms of tourism, including medical and wellness tourism, given the region’s natural suitability for such experiences.

Hashem added that with the operation of the Ajloun cable car and the presence of major archaeological sites like Ajloun Castle and Mar Elias, along with moderate weather, forests, and natural landscapes, the governorate is becoming more visible internationally. He also expressed hope for rapid progress on major investment opportunities listed on the “Invest in Jordan” platform, including the therapeutic resort.

A Resort Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Tourism observer Munther Al-Zghoul highlighted the project’s unique location in a forested area rich with agricultural lands and trees, making it a prime attraction for domestic and regional tourists. He noted its strong competitive potential and particular appeal to visitors from the Gulf, who seek destinations with cultural and natural character.

The proposed site overlooks the western ridge across from Ajloun Castle, sitting at the heart of the region’s famous hiking and eco-tourism trails. Alongside the recently developed cable car, the resort is expected to serve local and international visitors and will be equipped to accommodate individuals with physical and psychological needs. It will offer a wide range of therapeutic and rehabilitation services, supported by modern medical practices and technologies.

Services will include diagnostic ultrasound, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, shockwave treatment, rehabilitation programs, general medical checkups, fitness evaluations, and specialized dietary and weight management plans.

A Boost to Ajloun’s Development Path

Local activist Hamzah Shwayat noted that while Ajloun has strong environmental diversity, medical tourism is still in its early stages. He believes the resort, alongside the cable car and other investment projects, will help propel the governorate to new global recognition, especially with tourism numbers already increasing significantly—more than doubling since the cable car launch.

Major Investment from Saudi Emaar

Saudi Emaar announced its intention to build the resort, budgeted at around 19.1 million dinars, on an area of approximately 120,000 square meters. CEO Anas Ammar said it will include more than 150 hotel rooms and a suite of integrated wellness and tourism services designed for both local and international visitors.

Ammar affirmed that the project aligns with Jordan’s stable and attractive investment climate, supported by clear regulations and strong economic reform, as envisioned in His Majesty King Abdullah II’s Economic Modernization Vision.

Four-Star Medical Tourism Destination

According to the project description, the Ajloun Therapeutic Resort will be classified as a four-star facility, catering to individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle, weight reduction programs, medical recovery, and wellness experiences. It will feature a vast lineup of services including:

Interferential current therapy

Ultrasound diagnostics

Hydrotherapy

Laser treatment

Massage and spa services

Diabetes recovery programs

Fitness training

Nutritional and weight management plans

Healthy dining options

Cooking classes

Anti-cellulite therapy

Comprehensive rehabilitation services

Recreational activities will include swimming, yoga, cycling, long-distance hiking, water aerobics, tennis, meditation, and indoor/outdoor leisure events.

Local Support and Infrastructure Development

Ajloun officials and community leaders welcomed the project, noting its potential to strengthen the tourism sector locally and nationally. Governor Nayef Al-Hidayat emphasized that ongoing royal initiatives have already contributed to advances in infrastructure, health services, education, and tourism—positively impacting residents and enabling the community to leverage the area’s natural and economic strengths.

He also noted that the cable car has already attracted nearly one million visitors, revitalizing the local economy and creating employment. Several major development projects—such as the national park, the therapeutic resort, and cultural initiatives including the rehabilitation of Deir Al-Samadi village—are underway as part of the region’s comprehensive master plan.

Ajloun’s Expanding Tourism Future

Engineer Tariq Al-Maaytah, Director of the Ajloun Development Zone, stated that investment activity in the region is rapidly growing, with new eco-lodges, hotels, family attractions, and a multi-purpose venue for conferences and events in the pipeline. The cable car remains one of Jordan’s most prominent development landmarks and continues to boost tourism and commercial investment.

Ajloun Municipality Chairman Mohammed Al-Bashabsheh confirmed that the first phase of the access road to the therapeutic resort has been completed at a cost of 186,000 dinars, with additional stages underway. Work includes widening, paving, and constructing support walls to ensure safe and comfortable road access.

Director of Ajloun Tourism, Firas Al-Khattab, affirmed that the resort—located in a forest area rich with rare tree species—will enhance tourism infrastructure, create local jobs, attract more visitors seeking nature and wellness, and help reduce poverty and unemployment.

The project stands poised to become a defining centerpiece in Ajloun’s transformation into a leading regional hub for therapeutic tourism, eco-tourism, and sustainable development.