Khaberni - Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Imad Hegazin, held a meeting on Friday with representatives of the tourism sector in the city of Aqaba, in the presence of the head of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Shadi Al-Majali, and a number of officials, representatives of relevant agencies, and investors in the sector.
Hegazin emphasized that this meeting is part of the ministry's commitment to direct communication with partners in the sector, to understand their needs and challenges, which contributes to developing practical solutions that enhance the status of the tourism sector and its economic role, and ensure its operation with efficiency and flexibility.
He pointed out the importance of diversifying tourism markets and offered products, and working on promoting Jordan as a comprehensive tourist destination, noting that work is underway to prepare a clear timetable for implementing this direction, through a joint vision with various stakeholders, leading to an integrated action program that enhances the competitiveness of the sector.
He explained that field visits that included areas in the south, especially the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority and the Petra Region Authority, are part of two parallel tracks, the first of which is preparing for the launch of the royal directive for the Golden Triangle area, ensuring the implementation of an integrated tourism product, at a time when there is an urgent need to highlight it as one of the strategic options supporting the sector.
He affirmed the importance of integrating efforts between regulatory authorities, represented by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, and the Petra Region Authority, along with partners in the tourism sector, which enhances the ability to face challenges, and build on the available opportunities to advance the sector.
During the meeting, he discussed the latest updates related to the "Ahla bil Jordan" platform, outlining its anticipated role in the coming phase as an effective tool to support tourism promotion efforts and attract visitors, contributing to revitalizing the sector and enhancing Jordan's presence on the regional and international tourism map.
For his part, Al-Majali affirmed the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority's commitment to providing an attractive investment environment, supporting the establishment of distinctive tourism projects, in addition to developing infrastructure and improving the level of services offered to visitors.
He mentioned that the latest promotional campaigns have contributed to increasing hotel occupancy rates and revitalizing the tourism movement in Aqaba, noting the ongoing work in partnership with various entities to enhance the sector's performance.
The minister and attendees listened to interventions and suggestions from representatives of the tourism sector, focusing on the importance of simplifying procedures for investors and providing a supportive environment for the stability and expansion of the sector.
The attendees highlighted the importance of integrating official and private efforts, and developing a joint action program and a clear roadmap, which contribute to the development of the tourism sector in Aqaba and enhancing its stature as a sustainable regional and international tourist destination.
