PDTRA, JICA inaugurate 1st phase of Souk Al Dara in Petra

AMMAN — The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), on Saturday concluded the inaugural phase of Souk Al Dara, a weekly market located on Petra's tourism street. 

PDTRA Commissioner for Sustainable Development Fatima Hilalat said that the market aimed to promote local associations, facilitate the development of regional products, create marketing opportunities for local goods and provide visitors a chance to explore locally crafted products, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Hilalat also said that the programme plays an “important role in integrating local communities into the tourism sector, maximising the benefits of tourism, and extending returns to broader segments of the local communities”.

PDTRA officials on Sunday held a meeting with representatives from JICA to assess the outcomes of the first phase in a bid to ensure that the second phase, scheduled for the first half of 2024, adheres to the highest standards and maximises benefits for participating local associations, Petra reported.