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AMMAN — Jordan’s tourism sector generated $4.4 billion in revenue during the first seven months of 2025, marking an 8.6 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2024, according to preliminary figures from the Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ).
The growth came despite a 5.6 per cent decline in July’s income, which stood at $721.4 million, according to a CBJ statement.
Revenues from Asian markets recorded the highest growth at 41.1 per cent, followed by European visitors at 33.8 per cent, Americans at 21.7 per cent, and Arab tourists at 7.3 per cent. Earnings from other nationalities increased by 38 per cent, while returns from Jordanian expatriates fell by 2.5 per cent.
Outbound tourism spending also rose, with Jordanians spending $1.25 billion on travel abroad between January and July, up 4 per cent from last year. Spending in July alone increased by 7 per cent to $247.4 million.
The number of tourists visiting Jordan in the first seven months of 2025 surged by 15.6 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
The figures, cited by Al Mamlaka TV, said that nearly 4 million visitors arrived in Jordan during this period, up from 3.4 million in the first seven months of 2024.
Arab nationals accounted for the largest share, with close to 2 million visitors, followed by Europeans at 500,000 and Asian tourists at 150,000.
Industry stakeholders said the results highlight both the sector’s resilience and its challenges. “We are seeing a notable increase in visitors from Asia and Europe, drawn to destinations like Petra and Wadi Rum,” said Hani Kareem, an employee at an Amman-based tourism agency. “Improved flight connectivity and targeted marketing have helped, but the July dip is a reminder of tourism’s seasonal fluctuations.”
In the hospitality sector, the gains have led to higher occupancy rates but also operational pressures. “This summer has been relatively strong, particularly in Aqaba and the Dead Sea,” said Rabei Bashar, operations manager at a luxury hotel and resort. “However, with more Jordanians travelling abroad, we need to step up efforts to make domestic tourism appealing.”
Economists note that while increased inbound tourism supports foreign currency reserves and job creation, the parallel growth in outbound spending reduces the net economic impact.
Despite the mixed indicators, sector representatives said the performance so far in 2025 reflects Jordan’s ability to remain competitive and adapt to changing market trends.
