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AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Monday reiterated that the rule of law is a cornerstone of governance, stressing that “without it, no one can work or benefit.”
During a meeting in Petra with the chairman and members of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Hassan highlighted the need to intensify efforts, diversify the tourism product, and enhance it to restore the city’s tourism momentum.
The premier underscored the importance of establishing a clear framework that everyone adheres to, ensuring benefits for the local community in Petra and sustainable growth for the tourism sector as a whole, according to a Prime Ministry statement.
He noted that competition in the regional tourism sector is strong, calling for continued improvements to infrastructure, public services, and the overall visitor experience to remain competitive.
The premier emphasised that developing the tourism product to reflect the true image of Jordan and its people is “the most important aspect,” stressing the need to link Petra with nearby sites such as Shoubak Castle and the Dana Biosphere Reserve to promote local development and strengthen domestic tourism.
Hassan said the government is working to improve Petra’s infrastructure within available resources, adding that significant progress can be achieved through effective management and efficient spending. He underlined the importance of raising the quality of tourism and public services for both citizens and visitors.
Expressing optimism about the coming period, Hassan said Petra is expected to witness an increase in tourist arrivals, alongside the gradual return of airline routes suspended in previous years.
The prime minister also called for directing more high-value promotional events and celebrations to Petra, encouraging tourism establishments to host such activities to attract visitors, boost hotel occupancy, and generate economic returns.
Referring to his visit to the long-closed Crowne Plaza Petra Hotel, Hassan said renovation works will be expedited to reopen the hotel by early 2026, coinciding with the revival of tourism in the area.
He reiterated that the government’s primary goal is to advance development in Petra and its archaeological site in a manner that ensures fair and inclusive benefits for all members of the local community.
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Imad Hijazin and PDTRA Chairman Fares Breizat briefed the prime minister on the current state of the tourism sector and plans to further strengthen it, particularly in Petra.
