Salt:The national domestic tourism program "Urdunna Jannah" has successfully attracted around 15,000 visitors to the city of Salt and the broader Balqa Governorate since its launch through the end of September. This influx of visitors has reinforced the governorate's prominence on Jordan's cultural and heritage tourism map.
According to Jordan News Agency, Mahmoud Arabiyat, Director of Balqa Tourism, stated that the increase in domestic tourism numbers is a result of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to expand subsidized travel options. This initiative allows citizens to explore national historical, cultural, and natural landmarks while stimulating local economic activity.
Arabiyat mentioned that the program's implementation in Balqa has involved local restaurants, hotels, travel agencies, handicraft shops, and licensed local tour guides. This has created a cohesive hospitality chain that directly benefits community service providers.
He emphasized Salt's cultural significance, noting that its historic city center, with traditional architecture, heritage trails, local markets, and museums, serves as the main draw for tourists in Balqa. The governorate's natural, rural, and religious sites provide additional attractions for domestic travelers.
The tourism director highlighted that "Urdunna Jannah" continues to generate direct economic benefits across Balqa by increasing demand for food services, broadening the market for traditional crafts, and creating employment opportunities for local residents.
Arabiyat advocated for maintaining this momentum by developing integrated tourism corridors that connect Salt's historic center with nearby rural and ecological attractions, aiming to boost visitor spending and enhance hospitality services throughout the governorate.