Jordan Tourism and Environmental Campaigns Quiz

Introduction

• The Jordan Strategy Forum (JSF) is a non-profit organization representing Jordanian private sector companies.
• It promotes Jordan's economic growth and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
• The forum aims to facilitate dialogue on economic and social issues.

Background

• Jordan has experienced sluggish economic growth, fiscal deficits, and increased public debt in recent years.
• Tourism is one of the most promising sectors for economic growth and job creation in Jordan.
• The tourism sector has significant potential globally and in Jordan.
• Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Baptism site are recognized for attracting tourists.

Overview of Recent Achievements and Challenges

• Visa restrictions for some nationalities have been lifted.
• Petra visitors reached 1.42 million by early 2019.
• More visitors for sites such as Bethany, Wadi Rum, and Kerak Castle.
• New budget airlines will start flying in 2020.
• Increased tourist arrivals (by 6.5% in Q3 2019).
• Tourism sector is 12.5% of GDP in 2018 (estimated increase to 2019).
• Tourism revenues totaled JD 1,290.7 Million in Q3 2019 (7.7% increase).
• Tourism employment reached 53,389 in 2019's Q3.
• Challenges include restrictive/outdated tourism laws, lack of adequate transportation, inadequate research, and lack of awareness, poor presentation, among others.

Jordan's Competitive Position

• Jordan ranked 84th out of 140 economies in the 2019 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI).
• There has been a decline in Jordan's ranking over the period 2009-2019.
• Jordan's scores for factors like Business Environment, ICT Readiness, and Human Resources & Labor Market were low.
• Poor Investment Climate.

Tourism Patterns & Accompanying Services

• Jordan is competing with 150+ international destinations.
• Niche tourism products and geographic locations are considered.
• Seasonality is a challenge.
• Average length of stay for tourists is approximately 4.7 nights (2018).

Tourism Stakeholders and Sector Governance

• The tourism sector is governed by Tourism Law 20 (1988).
• Tourism-related legislation and instructions shape industry rules and govern licensing processes.
• The Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and its related institutions govern the sector.
• Problems exist with coordination amongst sector stakeholders.

Tourism Research and Academia

• A lack of quality tourism information in Jordan exists.
• There is a need for better data collection and analysis.
• Improved collaboration between academia and the tourism sector is needed.

Environmental and Heritage Conservation

• Jordan's heritage conservation is championed by several institutions like the Jordan Department of Antiquities and the Petra National Trust.
• Funding, staffing, and experience are noted as weaknesses.
• The tourism sector should promote sustainability and conservation.
• Reducing waste, and promoting energy savings will be crucial.

Tourism and Supporting Industries

• Tourism significantly influences transportation, IT, and healthcare.
• Opportunities for collaboration exist between sectors, but coordination and understanding needs to be facilitated.

Looking Ahead

• Tourism should be prioritized as an economic pillar in Jordan.
• The sector needs comprehensive reform of its legal and institutional structure.
• Stakeholder involvement is crucial to improve the sector.
• Environmental and heritage considerations should be fundamental to the sector's operations.