Azraq: Minister of Local Administration Walid Masri announced that the ministry is preparing a comprehensive development master plan for the Azraq region, targeting environmental and tourism development, which encompasses the water reserve, nature reserve, and Azraq Castle. Masri mentioned that these initiatives aim to strengthen Azraq's position on the national tourism map by rehabilitating craft areas, removing urban distortions, and improving infrastructure.
According to Jordan News Agency, the projects under this plan will designate new areas for population expansion, developed in partnership with the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDC). Masri noted that the master plan's components will be completed within one year, providing qualified craft and industrial zones and solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial areas to enhance sustainable development.
He explained that the master plan followed Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan's visit to Azraq, focusing on transforming it into an attractive environmental and tourism center. The initiative aims to restore Azraq's tourism prominence, especially after the UN Tourism Organization recognized North Azraq among the best tourism villages for 2025.
Stakeholders are optimistic about the plan's potential to advance development goals, attracting investments and positioning Azraq on Jordan's tourism and development map. The plan centers on tourism by enhancing the Azraq Castle site and launching projects in transportation, health, environment, and industries.
Director of the Planning Department at Azraq Municipality, Mohammad Al-Awartani, described the plan as promising, focusing on integrated development by transforming the Azraq Castle area into a modern tourist route and improving healthcare services. The plan includes constructing an international highway linking Jordan with Iraq, expected to generate development and investment opportunities.
Al-Awartani also mentioned establishing craft zones in North and South Azraq to relocate workshops and industries, forming future industrial cities. The plan envisions a vocational training center to provide education and training for youth, leveraging the highway to boost trade and create public parks.
Former MP and lawyer Faisal Al-Awar stated the plan would enhance Azraq's tourism appeal, stimulate economic projects, and create jobs, particularly in the environmental and tourism sectors. Establishing craft and industrial clusters would empower workers and attract investment.
Local community representatives emphasized the importance of implementing the master plan entirely and expediting its execution. They praised the Prime Minister's focus on Azraq, viewing it as a development hub generating employment, attracting tourists, and contributing to Jordan's broader goals.