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Jordan launches next phase of tourism sector licensing system reform

The Jordanian Ministry of Tourism has launched the third phase of a project aimed at reforming the tourism sector licensing system, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. The project, which is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply, seeks to improve procedures for launching economic activities and make Jordan an attractive and lucrative investment environment.

The secretary general of the Ministry of Tourism, Imad Hijazin, said the scope of the third phase includes the development of the start-ups and business conduct system. It also involves launching monitoring, inspection, and grievances regulations and shifting to digitization.

The reform of the tourism licensing system also aims to improve the business environment, employ a workforce, and clarify conditions and requirements to ensure compliance.

Hijazin claims that the project’s goal is to reduce costs, restrictions, and risks for tourism activities and professions by creating a better regulatory environment and reducing administrative burdens on government institutions.

He emphasized that Jordan’s tourism sector is a vital industry that supports and stimulates the national economy.

Reform attracts more tourists

Licensing system reform has already contributed to the significant development of the tourism sector in Jordan. One of the examples is an impressive increase in the number of tourists visiting the ancient city of Madaba.

According to the city’s Tourism Director, Wael Jaenini, Madaba saw a significant increase of 235 percent in the number of tourists compared to the same period last year.

During the first quarter of 2023, Madaba saw a total of 171,665 visitors, with 10,081 Jordanians and a significant number of foreign visitors from the US at 28,743, followed by Italy with 20,255, France with 13,268, and Spain with 9,566 visitors.

Jaenini also noted that the number of tourist establishments in Madaba has increased to 117, with just seven new businesses opening last year.

Out of the 117 establishments, 22 are hotels, 30 are restaurants, 60 are handicraft shops, and five are travel offices.

Madaba is well-known for its rich history and archaeological sites, including Mount Nebo, one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites. The city has won several international and Arab titles, including the 2016 World Crafts City title for mosaic and the Arab Tourism Capital for 2022.

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