Ma'an, April 17 (Petra) -Chairman of Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Dr. Fares Breizat, affirmed importance of tourism in supporting the local economy and providing job opportunities.

Breizat noted the "significant" expansion of tourism infrastructure in Petra region in recent years, adding that number of hotels in Petra increased from 40 in 2010 to 84 in 2024.

During a symposium, themed: "Role of Tourism in Community Development," held in the Greater Ma'an Municipality on Thursday, Breizat said community development should be linked to "productive" job opportunities in the tourism sector by expanding development of tourist products in Petra, launching cultural, hiking and adventure activities that serve this goal.

Breizat highlighted the need to build on the current achievements in the field of archaeological, historical, and cultural tourism and develop and diversify tourist products.

Breizat stated this vision should mainly expand the medical tourism sector to shift to "wellness and recovery" phase, as well as religious, adventure and exploration tourism.

Additionally, he highlighted the need to integrate local communities and empower them to benefit from the tourist movement.

Noting challenges facing investment in the sector, he said the industry primarily suffers from regional instability, bureaucracy, and multiplicity of legislation.
//Petra// AG

17/04/2025 15:16:04