Decrease in Jordanian tourist arrivals attributed to the ongoing Gaza dispute - Increase in tourism visits to Jordan due to Gaza conflict
Impact of Gaza Conflict on Jordan's Tourism Sector
The ongoing Gaza conflict in 2023-2024 has taken a significant toll on Jordan's tourism sector, particularly affecting the popular UNESCO World Heritage site, Petra. According to Abdul Rassak Arabijat, head of the Jordanian Tourism Board, the conflict has caused a sharp decline in tourism numbers, with visitor numbers dropping by about 61% from nearly 1.2 million in 2023 to fewer than 460,000 in 2024 [1][2][3][5].
This steep slump in visitors has severely impacted the tourism sector around Petra. Thirty-two hotels have shut down, and nearly 700 jobs have been lost in the tourism service industry near Petra [1][4]. The decline in tourism can be attributed to the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has discouraged tourists, predominantly from Europe and North America, contributing to this downturn [1].
Despite Jordan not sharing a border with Gaza, the war has had a broad regional effect. The Jordanian government has made diplomatic efforts to help Gaza, but the conflict's indirect economic impact on tourism has been substantial [1].
Jordan's economy heavily relies on tourism revenues, which account for 14 percent of its GDP. The number of European and North American tourists in Jordan has reached an all-time low due to the Gaza conflict. Abdul Rassak Arabijat stated that the impact of the Gaza conflict on the tourism sector is felt every day, a statement he made in October 2023 on Al-Mamlaka TV [6].
In summary, the Gaza conflict has disrupted travel sentiment and caused a major drop in visitors to Petra, deeply affecting local businesses and employment tied to tourism. The ongoing conflict continues to pose a challenge to Jordan's tourism sector and economy.
References
- Al-Mamlaka TV
- The Jordan Times
- Petra National Trust
- Jordan News Agency
- Jordan Tourism Board
- Al-Mamlaka TV statement
The Commission, in its role of consultancy on draft regulations, has also been approached regarding the implementation of the common fisheries policy. There seems to be a growing concern that lifestyle changes could indirectly impact travel choices for some tourists, potentially leading to a decline in tourist numbers even in unrelated destinations like Jordan. Additionally, political instability and general news related to war-and-conflicts, such as the Gaza conflict, may also play a role in shaping travel sentiments, as witnessed in Jordan's tourism sector.
