AMMAN: The Joint Coordination Committee for the “Petra Tourism Development Plan” project held its fourth meeting on Thursday, marking a significant step forward in Jordan’s efforts to enhance the Petra region’s appeal as a global tourist destination. Organized by the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the meeting gathered key stakeholders in the country’s tourism sector to discuss the plan’s objectives and progress.
According to Jordan News Agency, the meeting was attended by notable figures including Chairperson of Commissioners Fares Brizat, Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, and Commissioner of the Reserve and Tourism Yazan Muhadeen. Also present were Commissioner for Sustainable Development Fatima Hilalat, representatives from government ministries, major private tourism organizations, and international donors such as USAID, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Bank for Reconstructi
on and Development (EBRD).
Brizat emphasized the plan’s ambition to transform Petra into a sustainable and resilient tourist hub that reflects its international prominence. He acknowledged JICA’s continuing support and stressed the significance of ongoing collaboration between Jordan and Japan. Takahiro Suzuki, Representative of JICA’s Jordan Office, reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to aiding the Petra Master Plan and contributing to the broader economic growth of Jordan.
The project, set to be completed by February 2025, includes initiatives such as establishing a local weekly market, developing tourism products that benefit the local community, enhancing the Petra Museum, promoting digital marketing efforts, and improving tourism service quality.