Resumption of int'l travel boosts Jordan's tourism sector

AMMAN — Local travel agencies, which faced significant losses in 2024, reported a positive turnaround as more Jordanians resume international travel.

Travel agency owners who spoke to The Jordan Times shared that demand for outbound tourism has been steadily increasing, driven by a growing number of Jordanians seeking leisure travel abroad.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the number of Jordanians traveling overseas for leisure saw a modest 0.7 per cent annual increase in 2024, indicating a slow but steady recovery in the sector.

Industry experts predict a surge in outbound travel during the upcoming Eid al Fitr holiday, which is expected to further boost the sector. Currently, Jordan's outbound tourism market is served by 860 travel agencies.

Tourism expert Sameh Khatib noted that "the growing number of Jordanians traveling abroad is a promising sign for the sector's recovery." He also highlighted that the affordability of travel has motivated many Jordanians to explore new destinations, particularly in Europe.

Saleem Ghasan, an employee at a tourism agency, pointed out that Turkey, Egypt, and Dubai remain among the most popular destinations for Jordanian tourists. "We anticipate even higher demand for these destinations during Eid, with many people already inquiring about prices."

Despite the positive momentum, travel agency director Sleiman Khaled emphasised that financial constraints continue to be a significant barrier for many Jordanians hoping to travel abroad. "Given the ongoing economic challenges, a large segment of the population still struggles to allocate funds for leisure travel."

As the sector gradually recovers, industry experts remain optimistic that sustained demand and strategic planning will help travel agencies overcome the setbacks experienced in the past year.