Amman: Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), Ramzi Al-Maaytah, emphasized that Christmas celebrations by Christian denominations in Jordan present a bright image of coexistence and religious harmony, reflecting deeply rooted values of love and tolerance as a core pillar of Jordan's national identity.
According to Jordan News Agency, Al-Maaytah stated that this year's Christmas festivities carried a special national and humanitarian dimension, highlighted by the participation of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II. The Crown Prince joined members of the Christian community in Madaba for the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, embodying royal patronage and reinforcing the values of harmony and coexistence foundational to Jordanian society. This participation further affirms Jordan's status as a global model of interfaith fraternity and respect for diversity.
Al-Maaytah noted that this year's Christmas tree lighting events were attended by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Emad Hijazin, occurring in several locations such as Amman, Madaba, Balqa, Irbid, Ajloun, Zarqa, Karak, Mafraq, and Tafilah. The celebrations, held in public squares and urban centers, reflected communal joy and social participation, boosting tourism and commercial activity while promoting domestic tourism.
He emphasized that Jordanian Christians are an integral part of the country's social fabric, playing an active role in building the modern Jordanian state. This diversity, founded on citizenship and mutual respect, represents a key strength underpinning Jordan's tourism message in global markets.
Al-Maaytah explained that the Jordan Tourism Board prioritizes religious tourism in its promotional strategies, drawing on Jordan's rich religious and humanitarian heritage and the royal vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II. This vision promotes an inclusive humanitarian discourse that strengthens harmony among different religions and translates values of tolerance into daily practice.
He added that the harmony and cohesion between Muslims and Christians in Jordan have made the Kingdom a model for coexistence worldwide, enhancing its image as a safe and attractive destination for visitors, especially during religious holidays and festive seasons.
Al-Maaytah noted that these events, organized with official institutions, churches, and local communities, are part of national efforts to present Jordan as a land of peace and an open spiritual message to the world. The Tourism Board will continue supporting such events due to their positive impact on domestic tourism, local economic growth, and Jordan's international image.
He concluded by extending his congratulations to Jordanian Christians on the occasion of Christmas, wishing for continued goodness, peace, and prosperity for Jordan and its people.