Amman, Dec. 23 (Petra) -- Senate President Faisal Fayez said Jordan possesses significant and diverse tourism assets, particularly in medical and religious tourism, stressing the need to intensify efforts and boost investment in this vital sector, which plays a pivotal role in supporting the national economy.

During a meeting at the Senate on Tuesday with the Amman Group for Future Dialogues, chaired by Bilal Tal, Fayez said that Jordan, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, has successfully overcome various challenges and emerged stronger and more resilient.

Fayez noted that the King leads Jordan’s foreign policy with wisdom and balance, adding that the Kingdom maintains distinguished relations with many countries worldwide based on mutual respect and shared interests.

He reaffirmed that His Majesty represents a pillar of stability for the state, pointing to the King’s extensive international outreach, continuous engagement with Jordanians, and efforts to preserve regional security and stability.

He acknowledged ongoing economic challenges but said major projects are underway to help reduce poverty and unemployment, noting that the government has adopted positive policies and taken important economic decisions aimed at improving economic conditions.

For his part, Tal outlined an initiative presented by the group’s health team focusing on medical tourism in Jordan, its current status, and ways to develop it. He said the initiative calls for structured government support and greater policy integration to advance the sector and capitalize on its potential.

Members of the health team presented key pillars of the "Medical Tourism" initiative, underscoring that tourism is a promising sector in which Jordan holds competitive advantages and therefore warrants increased attention to maximize its economic impact.

They said Jordan enjoys a strong regional and international reputation in healthcare quality and cost, supported by advanced infrastructure and globally qualified medical personnel. They highlighted forms of medical tourism in Jordan, including medical, therapeutic, and cosmetic tourism.

They noted that medical tourism contributes about 3.5 percent to GDP and generates nearly JD1 billion annually, with medical tourists spending three to five times more than regular tourists, benefiting health, tourism, hospitality, transport, and trade sectors.

The team outlined key recommendations, including enhancing government support, developing human capital, streamlining procedures, ensuring quality, and improving patient experience to strengthen Jordan’s position as a leading medical tourism destination.

//Petra// AO