Petra's Tourism Boom: Urdunna Jannah Initiative Drives Domestic Visitor Surge

The ancient city of Petra in Jordan has experienced a remarkable resurgence in tourism, primarily driven by a domestic initiative called Urdunna Jannah. This program, focusing on overnight stays and cultural immersion, has seen astounding success, attracting a significant number of Jordanian visitors.

Urdunna Jannah: A Multifaceted Approach to Tourism Revitalization

The Urdunna Jannah initiative's triumph lies in its comprehensive strategy. It cleverly combines cultural events and entertainment, such as captivating evening shows and exploration of the vibrant Dara Souq marketplace. This holistic approach provides a richer, more engaging experience for visitors.

Furthermore, the program fosters strong partnerships with local businesses. Twenty-seven hotels and campsites actively participate in the program, a testament to the initiative's success in generating economic benefits. The increased demand also spurred ten additional hotels to reopen their doors, a significant boost to the local economy.

The support network extends beyond Petra itself. A collaborative effort involving 25 tourism departments across Jordan ensures smooth operations and a high level of service for visitors. This interconnected approach creates a seamless tourism experience across the nation.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Fares Breizat, head of the Petra Development and Tourism Authority (PDTRA), lauded Urdunna Jannah's crucial role in mitigating the impact of the decline in international tourism. "The program has revitalized the local hospitality sector, creating jobs as hotels have ramped up hiring," Breizat stated. This highlights the program's positive ripple effect on employment.

The PDTRA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Jordan Tourism Board, remains dedicated to expanding overnight tourism programs. This sustained commitment aims to continuously support local hotels, tourism providers, restaurants, and other businesses within Petra and beyond.

Abdullah Al-Hasanat, president of the Petra Hotels Association, echoed the positive sentiment, stating, "Urdunna Jannah has enabled Petra's hotels to cover operating costs by maximizing overnight stays." This speaks volumes about the financial viability and sustainability of the initiative.

Al-Hasanat also expressed hope for continued government support for the program, emphasizing its role in overcoming recent challenges faced by the tourism sector, such as hotel closures and job losses. The program serves as a crucial lifeline for the industry.

The program's success is evident in the numbers. Between September and October alone, a remarkable 21,528 Jordanians visited Petra, with 12,475 directly participating in the Urdunna Jannah program—representing a substantial 58% of total visitors during that period.

Accessibility and Future Prospects

For those keen on experiencing the magic of Petra, the Urdunna Jannah program offers comprehensive information. Both Jordanian and international tourists can access details on destinations, services, pricing, and booking options through the user-friendly Jannah.jo mobile application.

The initiative's success demonstrates the transformative power of strategic partnerships and a holistic approach to tourism development. The Urdunna Jannah program serves as a model for other destinations seeking to revitalize their tourism sectors and bolster their local economies.