Khaberni - Tourism and Antiquities Minister Imad Hijazin said that the tender for the restoration of the heritage village of Umm Qais will be issued before the end of this year, with restoration work at the Umm Qais Museum set to begin at the start of next year, as part of an integrated program to rehabilitate one of Jordan's most prominent archaeological sites and enhance its tourism readiness.
Hijazin explained, in a statement to "Al-Mamlaka" on Sunday evening, that the ministry is working on a comprehensive development plan for the tourist areas in the north of the kingdom, which includes Jerash, Irbid, Umm Qais, and the surrounding environmental and heritage sites, as part of a government approach to enhance the efficiency of cultural and tourist infrastructure in the provinces.
He pointed out that the northern region of Jordan attracts about 80% of tourists coming from the Gulf countries, making investment in this area a national priority. He confirmed the ongoing coordination with the Royal Jordanian to attract more tourists from the Gulf region, especially towards the Golden Triangle (Aqaba - Wadi Rum - Petra) during the winter season, which is characterized by its mild climate in the south of the kingdom.
Prime Minister Jafar Hassan directed on Sunday to maintain and rehabilitate the Umm Qais Museum, and to expedite the implementation of the village restoration plan; this contributes to enhancing the site's presence on the Jordanian tourism map.
