Amman, July 28 (Petra) – The government introduced new measures alongside previously approved initiatives to help tourism businesses navigate the impact of regional developments and maintain operational stability.

The government rolled out support packages to target key components of the sector, including hotels, tourist establishments, travel agencies, tour guides and other tourism-related professions and activities.

The measures are part of a broader government strategy aimed at strengthening the sector's resilience, preserving jobs, ensuring the sustainability of tourism businesses and maintaining the industry's readiness as a key contributor to the national economy.

Since the beginning of the year, the government has approved a series of support measures, including financial facilities for tourism establishments and covering interest on loans granted to the sector to help businesses overcome current challenges and safeguard employment.

Building on those efforts, the government recently announced an additional package focused on supporting the Petra region, which includes measures benefiting tour guides and several tourism-related professions and activities.

President of the Jordan Hotels Association Hussein Hilalat said the successive support packages reflect the government's continued commitment to addressing the challenges facing the tourism sector amid regional circumstances.

He said the measures have enhanced the operational stability of tourism establishments, eased financial burdens, protected employment opportunities and helped preserve investments in the sector.

Hilalat added that the latest package dedicated to Petra represents a significant step that responds to the needs of the region most affected by the decline in tourism activity.

Combined with earlier initiatives, including subsidised financing and government-covered loan interest, the new measures lay the groundwork for a gradual recovery and strengthen the sector's ability to regain momentum and prepare for an increase in visitor numbers.

Bilal Rubin, spokesperson for the Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies, said the government's previous and newly announced measures constitute an important support package that reflects an official understanding of the challenges facing Jordan's tourism industry as a result of regional developments affecting travel and tourism.

He said the decisions ease financial pressures on tourism companies and establishments, enabling them to continue operations, maintain stability and protect thousands of jobs across the sector.

Head of the Tourist Guides Association Ayman Omar welcomed the expansion of the subsidised loan programme for tour guides and the increase in the value of the allocated deposit, with the government covering loan interest.

He said the measures provide vital support for tour guides, enabling them to continue practicing their profession despite recent challenges while helping preserve the skilled workforce that underpins Jordan's tourism industry.

Omar added that including tour guides in the latest government support package demonstrates a comprehensive approach to supporting all segments of the tourism sector.

He said the measures will enhance guides' professional stability, help retain national expertise and strengthen the sector's preparedness for a recovery in tourism and a rise in visitor numbers.

//Petra// AK