Tourism Industry meets to improve the visitor experience in Petra
Petra – To initiate steps towards improving the visitor experience in Petra, a meeting with tourism industry representatives was held today to discuss projects and initiatives that can be implemented in order to support continued efforts to enhance facilities and services at the ancient city and develop Petra into a world-class destination that meets international standards and expectations of visitors. The meeting was organized by the Petra Development & Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), with support from the USAID/Jordan Tourism Development Project II.
The PDTRA, supported by the USAID tourism project, is working to capitalize on Petra’s appeal and enhance the visitor experience in the Petra region. This work seeks to improve visitor satisfaction as well as increase visitor numbers and extend the average length of stay.
“We are getting the tourism sector directly involved in our efforts to effectively build on Petra’s tourism industry and create a holistic destination experience that equals that of any other major attraction in the world,” said H.E. Mr. Nasser Shraideh, Chief Commissioner of the PDTRA. “Today’s meeting is a positive step in that direction and the PDTRA is eager to undertake the work needed to achieve the goals we have set.”
“We are proud to support the Authority diversify and expand tourism products in the Petra region that would enrich the visitor experience and showcase Jordan’s authentic culture and traditions, and linking Petra to its surrounding towns and villages to increase economic benefits to all.” said Mr. Ibrahim Osta, Chief of Party of the USAID/Jordan Tourism Development Project II.
Attendees included representatives from hotels, restaurants, tour operators, tour guides, and tourism-related associations from Petra, Aqaba and Amman. The discussion centered on ways to develop existing products, as well as looking at what new products can be introduced and how these can be linked to the areas surrounding Petra. In addition, investment opportunities available in Petra were highlighted.
The outcomes of today’s meeting will be studied by PDTRA and implementation of the suggested projects and initiatives will be undertaken with help from the USAID/Jordan Tourism Development Project II. Ultimately this work will improve the value of tourism to Petra’s communities, the tourism trade and Jordan’s economy at large. This will be achieved through increased investment in the Petra region and creating new tourism products and services.