Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, the Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, is in India to unveil Jordan’s ambitious tourism vision for 2025.
This visit underscores Jordan’s dedication to strengthening cultural ties and fostering strategic partnerships with India, a vital ally in promoting mutual prosperity through tourism.
“India is an important source market for Jordan, consistently ranking among our top five markets,” said Dr. Arabiyat. “The deep cultural connections and the increasing number of Indian travellers exploring our historic and scenic destinations reinforce our commitment to enhancing travel experiences and promoting mutual growth. We also appreciate the efforts of Think Strawberries, our representatives in India for supporting our shared goals towards making Jordan an ideal destination for high-value Indian travelers,” he added.
Dr. Arabiyat joins H.E. Makram Al Queisi, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan, on his maiden visit to India. The Minister’s presence marks a historic moment as efforts are made to formalise Umm el-Jimal as Jordan’s seventh UNESCO World Heritage site. This significant milestone will further enrich Jordan’s cultural landscape and bolster its global reputation as a guardian of ancient civilisations.
“Jordan is a land of unparalleled beauty and rich heritage, offering a multitude of attractions that cater to the diverse interests of Indian travellers. It offers an unparalleled blend of historical depth and natural beauty,” said Arabiyat.
“Petra, an ancient city carved into red sandstone cliffs, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Nabateans. Recognised as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, Petra is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike,” he elaborated.
“Another gem is the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, where visitors can float effortlessly on the mineral-rich waters renowned for their therapeutic properties,” Dr. Arabiyat continued. “The surrounding landscape, with its dramatic salt formations and rugged mountains, offers a surreal and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
Jordan’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage is evident in the array of UNESCO World Heritage sites, which, in addition to Petra, include Quseir Amra, Um er-Rasas, and the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ. Each site provides a unique glimpse into Jordan’s historical and religious significance, attracting pilgrims and history buffs from around the world.
“For those seeking adventure, the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum provide a stunning backdrop for activities such as camel trekking, hot air ballooning, and stargazing,” said Dr. Arabiyat. “Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum’s ethereal towering rock formations have been immortalized in films like ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘The Martian.'”
Jordan’s diverse landscape extends to its coastal regions, with Aqaba offering world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities. “The crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant coral reefs and marine life, making it a haven for underwater enthusiasts,” Arabiyat noted. “Aqaba’s warm climate and luxury resorts make it a perfect year-round destination for relaxation and recreation.”
“Jordan’s capital, Amman, offers a vibrant blend of ancient and modern attractions,” he added. “The city’s bustling markets, historic Roman Theatre, and the Citadel provide a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.”
Dr. Arabiyat introduced Jordan’s Vision 2025, focusing on five strategic pillars designed to position Jordan as a premier global destination:
● Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism: “Jordan offers a unique combination of modern infrastructure and historical charm, making it an ideal venue for international conferences and corporate events,” said Dr. Arabiyat.
● Destination Weddings: “Iconic sites like Petra and the scenic landscapes of Wadi Rum provide a stunning backdrop for luxury weddings, blending cultural richness with unparalleled natural beauty,” he noted. Munnmunn Marwah, COO of Think Strawberries, added, “Jordan hosted several Indian Weddings and is ready to host several more in 2025.”
● Luxury Tourism: “Jordan is a hub of exotic and luxurious properties. The experience offered stands as a testimony to our hospitality,” emphasised Arabiyat.
● Adventure Tourism: “For adventure enthusiasts, Jordan offers thrilling experiences ranging from desert safaris in Wadi Rum to diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea,” he highlighted.
● Film Tourism: “Cameras love Jordan! The cinematic appeal of the destination not only enhances the screenplay but also subtly highlights the extra dramatic effect that is needed,” said Dr. Arabiyat.
“We have streamlined the visa process, enabling Indian visitors to quickly obtain their visas online or upon arrival. This initiative reflects Jordan’s commitment to strengthening ties with India and ensuring a seamless experience for all visitors, whether they are here for leisure, business, or cultural exploration,” Dr. Arabiyat emphasised.
Currently, Indian travellers face layovers which Jordan seeks to alleviate with direct routes. Arabiyat emphasised the need for this improvement, noting that direct connectivity will cater to Indian tourists’ preferences for convenience. Jordan is strategically enhancing its tourism ties with India by focusing on improved connectivity and market strategies.
To address current travel challenges, Royal Jordanian is set to launch direct flights in 2025, aiming to reduce travel time and simplify connections with India. Additionally, Jordan is engaging with key stakeholders and travel agencies to refine its market approach and enhance its appeal.
To further boost tourism marketing, Jordan is set to launch an advanced AI-driven application named Jordan Gate. This innovative super app integrates various functionalities into one platform and features a cutting-edge AI system designed to offer personalised interactions with tourists. “With Jordan Gate, we are not only improving how we communicate with potential travellers but also setting a new standard in tourism marketing,” Dr. Arabiyat explained. “Our AI system will provide tailored recommendations, generate content, and facilitate real-time, personalised conversations. We are excited about this technology as it positions Jordan among the first tourism boards globally to leverage such advancements.” The launch of Jordan Gate is anticipated within the next two months and is expected to revolutionize how Jordan engages with the global tourism market.
During his visit, Dr. Arabiyat engaged in productive discussions with Indian authorities, tourism stakeholders, and industry leaders to forge strategic collaborations and cultural exchanges. These initiatives aim to enhance tourism cooperation between Jordan and India, leveraging tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and mutual understanding. Additionally, he assured that Jordan is committed to implementing targeted marketing strategies to foster its reach to the Indian travellers through digital campaigns and association with media channels to showcase its unique attractions and create tailored travel experiences.
