IRBID, Oct. 20 (Petra) – Jordan’s domestic tourism program, "Urdunna Jannah," has injected fresh economic momentum into the Irbid Governorate, drawing around 32,000 participants during the current season to its archaeological and cultural landmarks.

Local tourism operators, business owners, and artisans confirmed to the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that the government-subsidized initiative has significantly boosted commercial activity across local restaurants, travel agencies, and home-based micro-enterprises while showcasing heritage destinations such as Umm Qais, Pella (Tabaqat Fahl), and the Irbid Heritage Trail.

Marwan Al-Houri, owner of Al-Houri Travel and Tourism, highlighted that affordable tour pricing has spurred broad public participation. He noted that the program creates direct jobs for tour organizers and provides a crucial sales channel for local families offering traditional cuisine and handcrafted goods. Al-Houri also commended the Ministry of Tourism's upgraded electronic registration platform for streamlining booking procedures and participant data processing.

Local travel professional Faisal Al-Khaldi emphasized the role of destination diversity in sustaining domestic tourism, advocating for expanded marketing campaigns and broader inclusion of local businesses. Similarly, Rami Al-Taani, owner of Abu Riyad Restaurants, reported a tangible surge in restaurant occupancy and demand for traditional dishes brought in by visiting tour groups.

Beyond commercial returns, local artisan Naila Al-Omari noted that visitor inflows provide a essential marketing platform for authentic Jordanian handicrafts. She regularly hosts tour groups for hands-on workshops in traditional Shemagh fringing, helping preserve national heritage crafts.

Beneficiaries and participating families praised the program for making historical exploration accessible and cost-effective, describing the guided tours as educational experiences that foster cultural appreciation among younger generations.

//Petra// AA