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Jordan (31°57ƍN 35°56ƍE) and well known as The JK stands for The Jordanian Kingdom)

or The HKJ‘(Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan), is a kingdom on the East Bank of the River

Jordan in west-central Eurasia. It borders Saudi Arabia to the southeast, Iraq to the

east, Syria to the north, the West Bank and Israel to the west, sharing control of the Dead Sea.

Jordan's only port is located at the southern tip, the Gulf of Aqaba, which it shares with

Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Much of Jordan is covered by the Arabian Desert. However,

the north-western part of Jordan is part of the Fertile Crescent. Fertile Crescent is a region in

Western Asia. The capital city is Amman (31°56ƍ59ƎN 35°55ƍ58ƎE).Population (2009 est.) in

Jordan is 5,981,000. Total area of Jordan is 92 300 km and its 3 3/4 smaller than Malaysia

(329 845 km). Jordan has three international airport.. They are Queen Alia International

Airport, Maraka International Airport. Both airports are located in Amman. Meanwhile, King

Hussein International Airport is located in Aqaba.

Jordan consists of arid forest plateau in the east irrigated by oasis and seasonal water streams,

with Mediterranean evergreen forestry. The Great Rift Valley of the Jordan River separates

Jordan, the west bank and Israel. The highest point in the country is Jabal Umm al Dami, it is

1,854 m (6,083 ft) above sea level, its top is also covered with snow, while the lowest is

the Dead Sea -420 m (í1,378 ft). Jordan is part of a region considered to be "the cradle of

civilization", the Levant region of the Fertile Crescent. Major cities include the

capital Amman in the northwest, Irbid, Jerash and Zarqa, in the north.

Madaba,Karak and Aqaba in the south.

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Jordan is a land steeped in history. It has been home to some of mankind's earliest settlements

and villages, and relics of many of the world's great civilizations can still be seen today. As

the crossroads of the Middle East, the lands of Jordan and Palestine have served as a strategic

nexus connecting Asia, Africa and Europe. Thus, since the dawn of civilization, Jordan's

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geography has given it an important role to play as a conduit for trade and communications,

connecting east and west, north and south. Jordan continues to play this role today.

Because of its centralized location, the land of Jordan is a geographic prize which changed

hands many times throughout antiquity. Parts of Jordan were included in the dominions of

ancient Iraq, including the Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, Assyrian and Mesopotamian

Empires. From the west, Pharaonic Egypt extended its power and culture into Jordan, while

the nomadic Nabateans built their empire in Jordan after migrating from the south of the

Arabian peninsula. Finally, Jordan was incorporated into the classical civilizations of Greece,

Rome and Persia, the relics of which are scattered across the Jordanian landscape. Since the

mid-seventh century CE, the land of Jordan has remained almost continuously in the hands of

various Arab and Islamic dynasties.

The second geographical factor which has helped shape the history of Jordan concerns

climate. Only the northern highlands and the Jordan Valley have received enough rainfall to

support large populations. Therefore, this area has always been more settled by farmers,

villagers and townspeople. Most of the urban civilizations of Jordan have been based in these

fertile lands. To the south and east, meanwhile, there is very little rainfall and no rivers for

irrigation. These desert areas, which comprise the majority of Jordan, have rarely supported

large settled populations. In some periods, there appears to have been no settled population at

all. The lifestyle of the Bedouin inhabitants of these desert lands has remained similar in

some respects to that of their Edomite or Nabatean predecessors. The contrast between the

pastoral "desert" and agriculturally fertile lands is particularly pronounced in Jordan, and

much of the area's history can be linked to population shifts between large urban centers and

more dispersed, nomadic tribal groups.‘

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The climate in Jordan is semi-dry in summer with average temperature in the mid 30°C (mid

90°F) and relatively cold in winter averaging around 13 °C (55 °F). The western part of the

country receives greater precipitation during the winter season from November to March and

snowfall in Amman and Western Heights of 500 m (1,640 ft). The major characteristic of the

climate is humid from November to March and semi dry weather for the rest of the year.

With hot, dry summers and cool winters during which practically all of the

precipitation occurs, the country has a Mediterranean-style climate. In general, the farther

inland from the Mediterranean, the greater are the seasonal contrasts in temperature and the

less rainfall.

Most of the land receives less than 620 mm (24.4 in) of rain a year and maybe classified as a

semi dry region. The Jordan Valley, forms a narrow climatic zone that annually receives up

to 900 mm (35.4 in) of rain in the northern reaches; rain dwindles to less than 120 mm (4.7

in) at the head of the Dead Sea. The country's long summer reaches a peak during August.

January is usually the coldest month. Daytime temperatures during the summer months

frequently exceed 29 °C (84.2 °F) and average about 32 °C (89.6 °F). In contrast, the winter

months²September to March²bring moderately cool and sometimes very cold weather,

averaging about 3.2 °C (37.8 °F). Except in the rift depression, frost is common during the

winter, it may take the form of snow at the higher elevations of the north western highlands.

Usually it snows a couple of times in the winter.

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The overwhelming majority of the people are Arabs, principally Jordanians and Palestinians.

There is also a significant minority of Bedouin, who were by far the largest indigenous group

before the influx of Palestinians following the Arab-Israeli wars of 1948±49 and 1967.

Jordanians of Bedouin heritage remain committed to the Hashimite regime, which has ruled

the country since 1923, despite having become a minority there. Although the Palestinian

population is often critical of the monarchy, Jordan is the only Arab country to grant wide-

scale citizenship to Palestinian refugees. Other minorities include a number of Iraqis who fled

to Jordan as a result of the Persian Gulf War and Iraq War. There are also smaller Circassian

(known locally as Cherkess or Jarkas) and Armenian communities. A small number of

Turkmen (who speak either an ancient form of the Turkmen language or the Azeri language)

also reside in Jordan. ‘

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The official languages are Arabic and English. The most spoken language is Jordanian

Levantine. English is widely understood and is usually exclusively used in commerce,

government, universities, medicine, and among educated people. Modern Standard

Arabic and English are obligatory learning at public schools with French being an important

elective, and Spanish is slowly spreading. Radio Jordan offers radio services in all the official

and the spoken languages, such as Jordanian, Arabic, English, French, Armenian as well

as Caucasian languages like Circassian and Chechen. These languages are understood and

spoken by their respective communities that residing in Jordan, with several schools teaching

them, alongside English. Other languages that are recognized are Turkish, the Serbo-Croatian

language, the Greek language and the Bosnian language.

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Islam is the predominant religion in Jordan, and it is the majority religion among both Arabs

and non-Arabs. It is the official religion of the country, and approximately 92% of the

population is Muslim by religion, primarily of the Sunni branch of Islam. Islamic studies are

offered to students but are not mandatory to non-Muslim students. Jordan is an advocate for

religious freedom in the region and the world. Religious officials have no part in the

government and are not allowed to interfere in the state's affairs.

Jordan has an indigenous Christian minority. Christians are a religious minority both among

the Arab and non-Arab segment. Christians of all ethnic backgrounds permanently residing in

Jordan form approximately 6% of the population and are allocated respective seats in

parliament (The Department of Statistics released no information about the religion

distribution from the census of 2004). Christians made up 30% of the Jordanian population in

1950. However, emigration to Europe, Canada and the United States and lower birth rates

compared to Muslims has significantly decreased the ratio of the Christian population.

Coupled with the fact that the majority of people that have come to Jordan as refuges were

Muslim.

Indigenous Jordanians of the Christians faith, are, like their counterpart indigenous

Jordanians of the Muslim faith, an Arab people in language, culture and identity.

Jordanian Arab Christians hold services in the Arabic language, share the culture of Jordan,

and share the broader Levantine Arab identity. Most Jordanian Christians belong to the Greek

Orthodox Church of Jerusalem. The remainder include members of theSyriac Orthodox

Church,, Latin Rite Catholic Church, Melkite Greek Catholic Church, Syriac Catholic

Church and Anglican Communion.

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Other religious minorities groups in Jordan include adherents to the Druze and Bahá'

Faith. The Druze are mainly located in the Eastern OasisTown of Azraq, some villages on

the Syrian border and the city of Zarka, while the Village of Adassiyeh bordering the Jordan

Valley is home to Jordan's Bahá' community.

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Like most states, the majority of Jordan¶s day-to-day foreign policy centers on the business of

protecting the country¶s immediate interests and promoting the short-term welfare of its

citizens. However, the Hashemite leadership has also pursued another track designed to

promote the long-term rejuvenation of the Arab world. Jordan¶s vision of the desired Arab

order can be distilled from the speeches, remarks and statements of both the late King

Hussein and his brother, Prince El Hassan. They call for an Arab world which guarantees

democracy, human rights and political participation; social justice in dealing with the wide

gap between the ³haves´ and ³have-nots´; recognition that Arab security is indivisible;

relations between Arab countries based on cooperation and respect, not dominance; and, the

resolution of territorial disputes between Arab states. Essential to the Jordanian vision is the

importance of being open-minded to the outside world and remaining aware of the constraints

imposed by the current international order.

The promotion of these long-term objectives has sometimes conflicted with Jordan¶s pursuit

of its immediate interests. As a small state with very limited resources and a growing

population, Jordan must safeguard its interests by maintaining good relations with

neighbouring countries as well as global powers. Jordan must thus play a balancing act

between the two tracks of its foreign policy, safeguarding the immediate interests of its

citizens while promoting the rebirth of the Arab world and the well-being of the region.‘

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Following a resilient year in 2009, Jordan's tourism sector has risen sharply in the first five

months of 2010, with tourist arrivals and revenues much improved over the same period a

year ago. Investment in the tourism industry also continues to rise with several large-scale

projects recently announced in the kingdom.

The country's tourism sector has performed even better in 2010, with tourist arrivals in the

first five months of the year rising 32% to 1.66 million against 1.257 million in the same

period last year, according to official data. Jordan's receipts from tourism also rose sharply,

gaining 30% to 887 million dinars ($1.25bn) until May compared with the same period a year

earlier.

Spending by Gulf Arab tourists accounted for the highest portion (38%) of the kingdom's

tourism revenues, the data showed, with Jordan seeing a17% rise until May in Arab tourists

from the Gulf as the financial crisis has encouraged travel within the region.

The number of visitors to Petra, one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, rose

39.7% to 444,700 in the first five months of the year compared to the same period in 2009.


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Tourism is a very important sector of the Jordanian economy, contributing between 10

percent and 12 percent to the country's Gross National Product in 2006. In addition to the

country's political stability, the geography offered makes Jordan an attractive tourism

destination. In 2008, there were over 6 million arrivals, 3 million of them tourists, to Jordan.

Jordan earned over 3 billion dollars in revenue from the tourist industry. Opodo and Travel

Guides named Jordan as the Top Emerging Destination for 2009. Jordan's major tourist

activities include numerous ancient places, its unique desert castles and unspoiled natural

locations to its cultural and religious sites. Jordan also offers a variety of nightlife options

with nightclubs, discothèques, bars, and raves in Amman, Ibrid, Aqaba, and in 4 and 5-star

hotels across the kingdom including in the Dead Sea and Petra areas. More traditional

nightlife options like shisha lounges and late-night street cafes are available around Jordan. In

addition, Jordan has played host to numerous raves and concerts like the Petra Prana Festival

in 2007 which celebrated Petra's win as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with

world-renowned DJ's like Tiesto and Sarah Main. Also, the annual Distant Heat festival held

in Wadi Rum and Aqaba, which was ranked as one of the world's top 10 raves, brings local,

regional, and international DJ's to play nonstop for two whole days.

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While Jordan can bring many competitive products to the marketplace, one comparative

advantage stands out- the iconic nature of its major heritage and natural landspace products.

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Jordan¶s stunning natural landscapes not only define the country¶s sense of plave but also

hold a history that is important to the world¶s major religion. They are dominat, stable and

enduring in a changing world.

The incredibly strong unique selling propostition can be linked directly to key growth market

segments and ³pull factors´ that can build motivational, highly retained images essential to

support sucessful marketing. These are :

G‘ The Dead Sea

G‘ The Hold Land ± Religious Clusters: Biblical, Christian and Muslim

G‘ Petra

G‘ Wadi Rum

G‘ Jerash

Thirty-eight tour operators form seven markets provided their perceptions about Jordan¶s

standing according the categories. They recommened Jordan under these kind of activities :


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Here Jordan rated ahead of Egypt, which has recently changed it¶s advertising foucs moving

heritage to a more subsidiary position. Syria was in third place signaling the growing

presence of this competitior.

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Jordan again led Egypt and Syria.

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Jordan rates well behinf Egypt but ahead of Syria and Dubai. There is and admitted gap in

Jordan¶s famliy product and this will be important im its ability to complete sucessfully in the

vital sector of the regional market.



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Egypt is the leader of this activities. Jordan comes in second.

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Jordan is the first choice and wins confortably over Syria, with Egypt and Turkey well

behind.

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Israel is a clear first choice, Jordan is second.

There are many attractions in Jordan. There is no mistaking the fact that Jordan is a Kingdom

steeped in history and culture. From the moment of the arrival, tourist will get a sense of its

rich heritage, all around are remnants of ancient civilizations long since the past, yet they

still remain, stamped into the very fabric of this amazing Kingdom and etched into the soul of

the people who live here. These are the most visited attraction in Jordan.

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A sprawling city spread over 19 hills, or "jebels". Amman is the modern, as well as the

ancient capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Known as Rabbath-Ammon during the

Iron Age and later as Philadelphia, the ancient city that was once part of the Decapolis

league, now boasts a population of around 1.5 million. Often referred as the white city due to

its low size canvas of stone houses, Amman offers a variety of historical sites. Above

Amman, there is a site, which is known as Citadel includes. many structures such as the

Temple of Hercules, the Omayyad Palace and the Byzantine Church. At the foot of the

Citadel lies the 6000 seat Roman Theatre, which is a deep-sided bowl, carved into the hill and

still used for cultural events. Another newly restored theatre is the 500-seat Odeon, which is

used for concerts. The three museums found in the area offer a glimpse of history and culture,

they are the Jordan Archaeological Museum, The Folklore Museum and the Museum of

Popular Tradition.

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a fascinating city of contrasts ± a unique blend of old and

new, ideally situated on a hilly area between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley. In the

commercial heart of the city, ultra-modern buildings, hotels, smart restaurants, art galleries

and boutiques rub shoulders comfortably with traditional coffee shops and tiny artisans'

workshops. Everywhere there is evidence of the city¶s much older past.

Due to the city¶s modern-day prosperity and temperate climate, almost half of Jordan¶s

population is concentrated in the Amman area. The downtown area is much older and more

traditional with smaller businesses producing and selling everything from fabulous jewellery

to everyday household items.

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The people of Amman are multi-cultural, multi-denominational, well educated and extremely

hospitable. They welcome visitors and take pride in showing them around their fascinating

and vibrant city.

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The trip south from Amman along the 5,000-year-old Kings Highway is one of the most

memorable journeys in the Holy Land, passing through a string of ancient sites. The first city

to encounter is Madaba ³the City of Mosaics ". The city, best known for its spectacular

Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, is home to the famous 6th century mosaic map of

Jerusalem and the Holy Land. With two million pieces of coloured stones, the map depicts

hills and valleys, villages and towns as far as the Nile Delta. Other mosaic masterpieces

found in the Church of the Virgin and the Apostles and the Archaeological Museum.

Literally, hundreds of other mosaics from the fifth through the 7th centuries are scattered

throughout Madaba's churches and homes. In line with Jordan's commitment to restoring and

preserving its mosaic masterpieces, Madaba¶s extensive archaeological Park and Museum

complex encompasses the remains of several Byzantine churches, including the outstanding

mosaics of the Church of the Virgin and the Hyppolytus Hall, part of a 6th century mansion.

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In addition to Jerash and Amman, Gadara (now Umm Qays) and Pella (Tabqat Fahl) were

once Decapolis cities, and each has unique appeal. Umm Qays boasts impressive ancient

remains, such as the stunning black basalt theatre, the basilica and adjacent courtyard strewn

with nicely carved black sarcophagi, the colonnaded main street and a side street lined with

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shops, an underground mausoleum, two baths, a city gate and the faint outlines of what was a

massive hippodrome.

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The ancient city of Petra is one of Jordan's national treasures and by far its best known tourist

attraction. Located approximately three hours south of Amman, Petra is the legacy of the

Nabataens, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2000 years

ago. Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of

dams and water channels, Petra is now a UNESCO world heritage site that enchants visitors

from all corners of the globe. Much of Petra's appeal comes from its spectacular setting deep

inside a narrow desert gorge. The site is accessed by walking through a kilometre long chasm

(or siq), the walls of which soar 200 metres upwards. Petra's most famous monument, the

Treasury, appears dramatically at the end of the siq. Used in the final sequence of the film

"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade", the towering facade of the Treasury is only one of

myriad archaeological wonders to be explored at Petra. Various walks and climbs reveal

literally hundreds of buildings, tombs, baths, funerary halls, temples, arched gateways,

colonnaded streets and haunting rock drawings - as well as a 3000 seat open air theatre , a

gigantic first century Monastery and a modern archaeological museum, all of which can be

explored at leisure

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A close second to Petra on the list of favourite destinations in Jordan, the ancient city of

Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years.

Jerash lies on a plain surrounded by hilly wooded areas and fertile basins. Conquered by

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General Pompey in 63 BC, it came under Roman rule and was one of the ten great Roman

cities, the Decapolis League.

The city's golden age came under Roman rule, during which time it was known as Gerasa,

and the site is now generally acknowledged to be one of the best preserved Roman provincial

towns in the world. Hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and restored over the

past 70 years, Jerash reveals a fine example of the grand, formal provincial Roman urbanism

that is found throughout the Middle East, comprising paved and colonnaded streets, soaring

hilltop temples, handsome theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains and

city walls pierced by towers and gates.

Beneath its external Graeco - Roman veneer, Jerash also preserves a subtle blend of east and

west. Its architecture, religion and languages reflect a process by which two powerful cultures

meshed and coexisted, The Graeco - Roman world of the Mediterranean basin and the

traditions of the Arab Orient. The modern city of Jerash can be found to the east of the ruins.

The Jerash Festival, held in July every year, transforms the ancient city into one of the worlds

liveliest and most spectacular cultural events. The festival features folklore dances by local

and international groups, ballet, concerts, plays, opera, popular singers and sales of traditional

handicrafts, all in the brilliantly floodlit dramatic surroundings of the Jerash ruins.

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With its wealth of other attractions, modern-day visitors often overlook Jordan¶s splendid

Red Sea resort. However, apart from being a delightful place for discerning holidaymakers,

this is actually a great base from which to explore various places in southern Jordan.

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Aqaba is a fun place. It is a microcosm of all the good things Jordan has to offer, including a

fascinating history with some outstanding sites, excellent hotels and activities, superb visitor

facilities, good shopping, and welcoming, friendly people, who enjoy nothing more than

making sure their visitors have a good time. Aqaba¶s greatest asset is the Red Sea itself. Here

tourists can experience some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world. The temperate

climate and gentle water currents have created a perfect environment for the growth of corals

and a teeming plethora of marine life. Here tourist can swim with friendly sea turtles and

dolphins as they dart amongst the schools of multicoloured fish. Night dives reveal the

nocturnal sea creatures, crabs, lobsters and shrimp, as they search for a midnight snack.

There are several dive centres in Aqaba. All offer well-maintained diving equipment,

professional instructors, and transport by boat to a variety of dive sites. For those who prefer

to keep their feet dry, all the deep-sea wonders can be viewed through a glass-bottomed boat

or by submarine, or you can just relax under the sun on the resort¶s sandy beaches. In

addition, there are plenty of other water-sport activities available, as well as an extensive and

interesting Marine Park.

Aqaba International Airport is situated just a 20-minute drive from the town centre and

services regular flights from Amman as well as from several European cities. From the town

centre, the borders of Israel, Egypt¶s Sinai and Saudi Arabia are no more than a 30-minute

drive

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Jordan has a number of nature reserves.

‘ Dana Biosphere Reserve covers 308 square kilometres. It is composed of a chain of

valleys and mountains which extend from the top of the Jordan Rift Valley down to the

desert lowlands of Wadi Araba. Attractions include Rummana mountain. The Reserve

contains a remarkable diversity of landscapes, which range from wooded highlands to

rocky slopes and gravel plains to sand dunes. Dana supports diverse wildlife including a

variety of rare species of plants and animals; Dana is home to about 600 species of plants,

37 species of mammals and 190 species of birds.

‘ The Azraq Wetland Reserve is a unique wetland oasis located in the heart of the semi-arid

Jordanian eastern desert, one of several beautiful nature reserves managed by the Royal

Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN). Its attractions include several natural and

ancient built pools, a seasonally flooded marshland, and a large mudflat known as Qa'a

Al-Azraq. A wide variety of birds stops at the reserve each year for a rest during their

arduous migration routes between Asia and Africa. Some stay for the winter or breed

within the protected areas of the wetland.

‘ The Shaumari Wildlife Reserve was created in 1975 by the RSCN as a breeding centre

for endangered or locally extinct wildlife. Today, following breeding programs with some

of the world's leading wildlife parks and zoos, this small, 22-square-kilometre reserve is a

thriving protected environment for some of the most rare species in the Middle East. Oryx

ostriches and,gazelles which are depicted on many 6th century Byzantine mosaics, are

rebuilding their populations in this safe haven, protected from the hunting and habitat

destruction that nearly wiped them out.

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 ‘ The Mujib Nature Reserve is the lowest nature reserve in the world, with a spectacular

array of scenery near the east cost of the Dead Sea. The reserve is located within the deep

Wadi Mujib gorge, which enters the Dead Sea at 410 metres below sea level. The Reserve

extends to the Kerak and Madaba mountains to the north and south, reaching 899 metres

above sea level in some places. This 1300-metre variation in elevation, combined with the

valley's year-round water flow from seven tributaries, Over 300 species of plants, 10

species of carnivores and numerous species of permanent and migratory birds have been

recorded. Some of the remote mountain and valley areas are difficult to reach, and thus

offer safe havens for rare species of cats, goats and other mountain animals. Mujib's

sandstone cliffs are an ideal habitat for one of the most beautiful mountain goats in the

world, the horned ibex.

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Cultural heritage tourism is one of the fastest market segments and accounts for about 10

percent of tourist worldwide, about 60-70 million each year. This segment is expected to

grow with the ageing of the baby boomers. Tourist interested in cultural heritage tourism are

typically well travelled, affluent, highly educated, and stay in high quality accommodations.

As western culture ages, there is a growing need to get reacquainted with historical places

especially areas that serve as the birth place of the society. Jordan is a good position to

penetrate this market segment and traditionally has done well in historical heritage with sites

such as Madaba, Petra, and Ajloun. Many cultural sites exist in the capital of Amman, which

dates back to pre-biblical times. Jordan currently has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in

Petra and Quseir Amra that will put interest to the market.

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Religious tourist can be one of the reasons why people travel. Trips vary in motive, including

pilgrimages, religious tours, service projects and missions. Some of the most popular

Christian pilgrimage destinations are the Jordan¶s Holy Land where the religion was founded.

Worldwide, there are 1.7 billion Christian.

Jordan is a unique position because of its religious heritage assets for three of the major world

religions. Jordan is recognized as the birthplace of two of these religions, Christianity and

Judaism. The story of Adam and Eve is said to have taken place in the Jordan River Valley

near the Dead Sea. Jordan contains 50-60 percent of Holy Land¶s sites, including Noah¶s

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Tomb and Bethany. Bethany is mentioned inside Bible as a place where Jesus was baptized

by John the Baptize.

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Growing at a rate of 18 percent per year, adventure travel continues to be one of the fastest

growing niche markets in the travel industry. Contrary to the popular opinion, this is not a

young, backpacking, low budget market. Participants are often at the park of their carriers,

with a large of amount disposable income. The typical traveller is from 20-55 years old and

takes trips that average between seven and 15 days. This market includes a wide variety of

activities, including hiking cycling, rock climbing, desert trekking, sailing, camping,

ballooning, mountain biking, water sports and horseback riding.

Jordan¶s rugged and varied terrain provides the perfect venue for almost any adventure

activity in which a tourist in this segment would want to participate, from the casual to the

most hard core. Aqaba is a water lover¶s paradise, with Red Sea providing unmatched scuba

diving and calm warm waters for activities such as jet skiing and sailing. Hiking, desert

trekking and camel treks are available in nearby Wadi Rum and other desert areas. Mountain

biking and trekking are offered around the Dead Sea and in the Mujin Wildlife Reserve.

 
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Eco-tourism is a dynamic market where preservation and conservation are central to the

destination¶s appeal. Approximately 20 percent of tourist worldwide (132 million) are

involved in ecotourism and nature related tourism. Activities include wildlife viewing,

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hiking, interpretive learning, and plant identification. Eco tourists are likely to spent more

money than general tourist,

Jordan has four nature resources and one marine park that together offer a variety of eco-

tourism opportunities. Wadi Rum is an excellent example of desert landscapes with

exceptional mountains views. Dana National Park boasts a great diversity of landscapes and

is home to several rare plants. The Mujib Wildlife Reserves hosts some of the most ancient

and interesting wildlife in the Middle East, including the caracal. The Dead Sea is the lowest

spot on the Earth is a wonder unto itself and draws visitors each year to view its salt

formations and swim in its healing waters. The Shaumari Nature Reserve is home to the

Oryx, one of the few mammals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula.

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The health and wellness segment which includes activities ranging from spa treatment to

surgery is growing worldwide. It tends to be less volatile than leisure travel. Travellers in this

segment are often travelling out of necessity. The spa industry alone grew by 800 percent

between 1978 and 1994 and it¶s expected to continue growing as the world¶s population ages.

Jordan is the leader in the health and wellness travel movement and home to the world¶s

largest spa. For thousand years, kings and rulers have travelled to the Dead Sea to bathe in

the healing waters, pack their body in the nutrient rich mud and soak in the mellow sunrays.

While the Dead Sea spas are world renowned, they are not the only location in Jordan to offer

unique treatments. Afra Falls, Al-Himmeh, and Ma¶in Falls each have special clinics for a

variety of ailments.

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The total number of cruise passengers worldwide is expected to grow from 7.5 million in

1998 to 13.5 million by 2005. The cruise industry generated a total economic impact of

US$1.6 billion in the United States in 1997 and reached US$ 18.3 billion in 2002. This

segment is increasing attracting the family marker, as parents catch on to the fact that cruising

is remarkably hassle-free with children on board. All inclusive cruise ships are small and

luxury vessels which attract empty nesters and seniors. Getting married on ship is a growing

trend for couples looking for a different way to spend their wedding day. Themed cruises

attract travellers from a wide range of age groups, and therefore target markets vary

depending on the theme of the cruise.

It¶s recommended that Aqaba authorities and operators focus on this segment as it has good

potential for the south of Jordan tourism component.

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This segment attracts large groups of affluent people. This strategy aims to capture high-level

international business and political meetings. Each MICE event creates significant economic

impact on the state and community. One of the benefits of this strategy is to help extend the

length of the tourism season. MICE tourists are 40 percent more likely to return to the

destination for leisure activities in the future.

Jordan has recently committed to this segment and has made improvements in infrastructure

to grow the MICE market. Amman has built the new Zara Centre, the Cultural Centre and

sizable hotels that can accommodate large meetings. There are number of hotels in Petra and

the Dead Sea area including the new Royal Convention Centre that can entertain MICE

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clients, and Aqaba has many hotels in development. Jordan has the benefit of a central

location in the Middle East that could help in the intensely competitive MICE market.

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Attracting domestic and regional tourist is a key to maintaining a flexible tourism industry

able to weather unforeseen international pressures or events. Jordan is relatively successful at

attracting regional tourists, and they form a significant portion of Jordan¶s overall tourist

market. In 2002, two-thirds of inbound travel was from Middle Eastern countries and well

over half of that was form the Gulf countries alone. In Jordan¶s case, tourists in this market

are usually residents of Gulf who come with families and stay in furnished apartments for the

summer. The main draws for them are entertainment, attractions and cooler weather.

Amman is a vibrant metropolitan city with all of the amenities necessary to cater to the

affluent arab world. The city has numerous restaurants, souqs (bazaars), upscale boutiques,

and markets. It also has an amusement park. The Dead Sea resorts also attract visitors in this

segment, as does Aqaba.


‘

The sports travel market consists of two distinct components. One is travel for active

participation in a sport or event and the other is travel to watch an event. Jordan currently has

a number of sites and activities that can cater to the sports tourist. Amman offer golf, Aqaba

offers scuba diving, and the Mujib Wildlife Reserve offers mountain biking. Jordan hosts the

annual Dead Sea Ultra marathon, as well as the Jordan International Rally, a desert auto race.

The 2004 world championship for fencing and snooker were help in Aqaba. Jordan¶s relative

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stability provides excellent venues for sporting events in underutilized Middle Eastern

Market.

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Filming and photography are progressive industries that are always in search of new places

and creative ideas. They can produce a huge positive impact on the tourism industry by

helping to position and market the country.

In July 2003, the Royal Film Commission of Jordan was established with a goal to help

professionals and institutions working in the physical or digital production. The Commission

aims to provide a one-stop source of information for the artists and aspiring filmmakers. The

Commission also promotes cross cultural interaction and global understanding by supporting

the development of a Jordanian film industry, as well as encouraging foreign production to

film in Jordan.

The strategy recommends exploring further the potential of this sector to produce high yields

at all levels. Jordan has a wide variety of landscapes and weather as well as infrastructure,

well-trained and educated individuals, and state-to-the-art technologies. It also offers unique

historical and cultural attractions that can be of use in themed films, documentaries, or digital

productions. Apart from many local and regional movies and series were produced in Jordan,

10 international movies were filmed and of which best known are probably ³Lawrence of

Arabia´ (1962), ³Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade´ (1989), ³Son of the Pink Panther´

(1993), ³The Mummy Returns´ (2001) and ³Transformer, Revenge of the Fallen´ (2009).

Jordan has also been featured in numerous documentaries and advertisements.

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MOTA¶s principle roles are leadership, policy development, and political mediation. It¶s

recommended that the ministry take the lead in establishing conditions through which the

private sector can invest in public assets and become involved in their management and

marketing. MOTA¶s insitituational framework should be revised and upgraded to ensure

professional follow up and implemantation of all the startegy recommendations. Through

minister can receive policy advice from both the provate and public sector on high-level

issues, can ebe a beneficial forum as long as its focus is on strategic and policy issues and

that it doesn¶t not duplicate the functions of the JTB and MOTA.

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Government agencies consists of economic priorities, FDI, education, public investment, and

infrastructure policies and actions require close coordination by governments agencies who

oversee the resources, laws and regulations that will bring impact in tourism.

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The JTB is solely engaged in marketing and promotion. This is a weakness that affects

current and future performance. It should also have a voice in product development and

planning.

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The JTB and Royal Jordanian can collaborate to open new markets and expand into new

sectors of existing markets. It¶s recommended that a protocol between the two bodies be

initiated under the chairmanship of concerned ministers.

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Aqaba must develop on independent startegy that is consistent with the Natiobal Tourism

Startegy and the core principles of its integrated approach and partnership. Close partnership

with the JTB is not just recommended by the startegy but it¶s essential to it.

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The private sector is the lead implementer of the value delievery system. To enchance private

sector involvement in all aspects of tourism development, the startgey should encourage and

support the emergence of independent and voluntary tourism associations.

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 ‘

NGOs, conversation and historic preservation advocates and institutions of higher education

need to be actively involved in the planning and monitoring of tourism to help ensure it¶s

sustainability.

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The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan. Transnational terrorist groups, as well as less

sophisticated local elements, have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks

in Jordan. The Al-Qaeda in Iraq network in particular continues to carry out terrorist

activities against U.S. and Government of Jordan (GOJ) targets in Jordan. A few crimes that

conducted by Al-Qaeda are the assassination of U.S. diplomat Larry Foley outside his west

Amman residence on October 28, 2002, Aqaba rocket attacks on August 19, 2005 that targets

a U.S. naval ship, which killed one Jordanian soldier and wounded another. The Al-Qaeda in

Iraq network also claimed responsibility for the November 9, 2005, bombings of three

international hotels in Amman that killed 60 people and injured over 100. Pedestrian suicide

bombers wearing explosive vests carried the bombs into the hotels. Numerous other terror

plots have been foiled in recent years. However, terrorists detonated a roadside improvised

explosive device near an Israeli diplomatic motorcade travelling on the Dead Sea Highway

on January 14, 2010. There were no casualties as a result of this attack. On April 22, 2010, a

rocket landed at a refrigeration warehouse outside Aqaba.

Terrorists may target areas frequented by Westerners, such as tourist sites, hotels, restaurants,

bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, shopping malls and transportation hubs, places of worship,

expatriate residential areas, and schools. In light of these security concerns, tourists are urged

to maintain a high level of vigilance, to be aware of their surroundings, and to take

appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.

Anti- Western sentiments exist in Jordan and intensify following important events in the

region, particularly those related to Israeli/Palestinian issues, conflicts in Lebanon, and, to a

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lesser extent, Iraq. This may lead to random acts of violence against Westerners. On July 16,

2008, a gunman fired on foreigners leaving a public concert in downtown Amman, injuring

eight foreigners before turning the gun on himself. On September 4, 2006, a gunman fired on

foreigners at a popular tourist site in central Amman, killing one and injuring six. Travellers

and tourists are advised to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people. Many

demonstrations occur near mosques after Friday prayers. Consequently, special sensitivity

and caution should be exercised when visiting or travelling near mosques and religious sites

during holy days and the Friday Muslim Sabbath. Demonstrations may also take place at

universities and refugee camps.

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‘

Crime is generally not a serious problem for tourists in Jordan but however, host country and

local media sources have reported a slight increase in petty crime. In the narrow streets of the

older parts of the city centre, crowded conditions invite pickpockets and other petty

criminals. Tourists are urged to be more guarded in these areas so that they do not present

easy opportunities for criminals.

Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs,

as thieves have reportedly preyed upon persons soon after using these services.

Women, both visiting and residing in Jordan, have reported sexual harassment, stalking, and

unwelcome advances of a sexual nature. There have also been isolated reports of harassment

and sexual assault, many involving taxis and taxi drivers. Incidents typically involve verbal

sexual harassment, staring, or following the victim after the victim exits the taxi; however,

there are occasional violent attacks. Other troubling incidents have included indecent

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exposure, touching, and abduction. Women are advised to take reasonable precautions

including dressing conservatively, not travelling alone, and avoiding travel to unfamiliar

areas at night. Women should never sit in the front seat of a taxi and should always carry a

cell phone if possible.

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While in a foreign country tourist or travellers may encounter road conditions that differ

significantly from those in their country. The information below concerning Jordan is

provided for general reference only and may not be completely accurate in a particular

location or circumstance.

It is typical for drivers in Jordan do not signal turns or lane changes. Drivers can also be

aggressive and cars operate very closely together on the highways. Jordanian roads are

particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from December to March. City

driving in Amman is also more hazardous in the summer months of June to September when

Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highways are

more crowded around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan

for family visits. Poor lighting and road conditions prevail, so extra caution must be exercised

at all times, especially when driving at night.

The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, a popular tourist destination, is particularly dangerous

because it is narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. If possible, this area should be

avoided at night.

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When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should beware of both unmarked speed

bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions between livestock and

automobiles are common.

Landmines are often located within two miles of military installations and borders, including

the popular Dead Sea area. Minefields are usually fenced off and marked with skull-and-

crossbones notices, but the fences and signs may be in poor repair or hard to see. Avoiding

these areas reduces the risk of accidentally setting off a mine.

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‘‘[ ‘

Petra the world wonder, is without doubt Jordan¶s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist

attraction. It is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, an

industrious Arab people who settled here more than 2000 years ago, turning it into an

important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked China, India and

southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome.

Entrance to the city is through the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1 kilometre in length, which is

flanked on either side by soaring, 80 metres high cliffs. Just walking through the Siq is an

experience in itself. The colours and formations of the rocks are dazzling. As you reach the

end of the Siq you will catch your first glimpse of Al-Khazneh (Treasury).

This is an awe-inspiring experience. A massive façade, 30m wide and 43m high, carved out

of the sheer, dusky pink, rock-face and dwarfing everything around it. It was carved in the

early 1st century as the tomb of an important Nabataean king and represents the engineering

genius of these ancient people.

The Treasury is just the first of the many wonders that make up Petra. You will need at least

four or five days to really explore everything here. As you enter the Petra valley you will be

overwhelmed by the natural beauty of this place and its outstanding architectural

achievements. There are hundreds of elaborate rock-cut tombs with intricate carvings - unlike

the houses, which were destroyed mostly by earthquakes, the tombs were carved to last

throughout the afterlife and 500 have survived, empty but bewitching as you file past their

dark openings. Here also is a massive Nabataean-built.

Roman-style theatre, which could seat 3,000 people. There are obelisks, temples, sacrificial

altars and colonnaded streets, and high above, overlooking the valley, is the impressive Ad-

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Deir Monastery ± a flight of 800 rock cut steps takes you there.

Within the site there are also two excellent museums; the Petra Archaeological Museum and

the Petra Nabataean Museum both of which represent finds from excavations in the Petra

region and an insight into Petra's colourful past.

Inside the site, several artisans from the town of Wadi Musa and a nearby Bedouin settlement

have set up small stalls selling local handicrafts, such as pottery and Bedouin jewellery and

bottles of striated multi-coloured sands from the area.

It is not permitted for motorized vehicles to enter the site. But if you don¶t want to walk, you

can hire a horse or a horse-drawn carriage to take you through the one kilometre Siq. For the

elderly and/or handicapped, the Visitors' Centre, close to the entrance of the Siq, will issue a

special permit (at an extra fee), for the carriage to go inside Petra to visit the main attractions.

Once inside the site, you can hire a donkey, or for the more adventurous, a camel - both come

with handlers and take designated routes throughout the site.

Since Petra is a valuable asset for Jordan, this special report will features current issues on the

ancient city itself and the solutions to overcome the problems.

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Petra National Trust strives to find a balance between the requirements of tourism and the

preservation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra;, which means that their priority to

protect Petra, while making it accessible to tourism, work hand in hand.

A major part of what they do is raise awareness about the issues that are affecting Petra¶s

fragility and what can be done to prevent further damage to the site.

The issues listed below are those that currently face the Park. They did not list the many past

issues that have been resolved. Only where issues of the region surrounding Petra have a

direct impact on the Park will be the matter to solve.

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The carrying capacity was estimated based on specific formulas after Boullon. The results

shows that the calculated carrying capacity (16200 visitors per month) exceeds the acceptable

limits except January (Khadli Magablih and Abdulla al- Shorman,2009). The average month

number of visitors is close to the carrying capacity during June and December. The rest of the

year is wau above the carrying capacity, especially March, April, May and October. These

months are supposed to be the season for foreign non-Arab tourist in Jordan. The best time

for them to visit Petra is from February to April and October to November. Knowing in the

year 2001 is about 95% of the total visitors, carrying capacity at Petra exceeds 16200 for

months of the year.

The recommendations to overcome this problem are to work on extending the tourism season

at the site through dispersion of tourist to different periods instead of being concentrated in a

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few months. This could be achieved through offering incentives such as lower price and more

recreational activities to tourist visiting the site before and after the current peak season.

Moreover, tourist flow in Petra should be restricted to one direction. This is supposed to

double the carrying capacity of the site and enhance the level of satisfaction among tourists.

The Siq could be the main entrance for tourist visiting Petra and a possible exist could be the

established at the northern part of the site. This could help in a more balanced distribution of

tourism activities and impacts. Also, a segment of the market prefers to access the Treasury

through the SIq using animals which annoys other tourist inside Siq. This issue will be

elaborate more under animal managements.

Promoting other attractions within the site is very important in order to extend the average

length of stay and increase its carrying capacity for example let tourists visit the Theather and

Qasr El-Bint. Visits to Petra should be limited to guided tours in order to control smooth

movement of tourists. Extending the workers hours at Petra could contribute to balance the

carrying capacity especially during the high season. Night tours should be highly encouraged

among tourist wishing to enjoy the nightlife at the site, although it requires certain

infrastructures and installations.

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Animals are a means of transportation and a source of livelihood for the indigenous

communities that surround Petra. Traditionally they have been used by these communities to

transport visitors in and out of the Petra Archaeological Park (PAP).

Whereas there are procedures for the use and movement of horses, there is none to govern the

movement of donkeys and camels. Gateway communities allow their goats to graze causing

considerable damage to the vegetation cover of the Park. Currently, there is no management

policy for animals within or outside the Park. Here are the list of the animals that have been

used as the transportation to the park.

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Donkeys have been used traditionally by members of the local community to carry visitors to

and from the Treasury and high places such as the Monastery. Until recently donkeys were

banned from crossing the Siq; because of the narrowness of the Siq the use of animal

transportation is hazardous to people. Animal droppings are likewise a health hazard. The

use of donkeys in the Siq has been resumed of late and the issue of climbing the fragile

carved Nabataean sandstone steps to the high places and the erosion that it causes remains a

serious concern.

The total removal of donkeys from the site, although ideal, is not very realistic as the local

communities depend on the income generated by the use of these animals. Finding alternative

means of income for their owners is the solution to this issue.

In PNT¶s view, the impact of donkey hooves on the sandstone steps, if continued, will

accelerate erosion to a point where they will soon disappear. This activity must be stopped.

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Of late, it has been noted that donkeys are often treated harshly by their owners in the hope of

receiving larger tips from tourists. The Brooke hospital in Petra was established to give

medical care to horses but this service is not available for donkeys.



Prior to 1995 there were a large number of horses and carriages crossing the narrow Siq,

which posed a threat to the safety of visitors. Horse droppings also created a health hazard to

visitors. Currently there are 351 licensed horses. All horses are entitled to treatment at the

Brooke Hospital at the Park¶s entrance.

UNESCO, in co-ordination with PNT in 1995 was successful in limiting the movement of

horses to the area between the entrance to the Park and Bab al-Siq.

Only horse drawn carriages are now allowed to cross the Siq. These carriages serve the

purpose of transporting the elderly and the handicapped. However, more often than not

horses are hired to transport visitors who do not belong to either of these categories and move

at high speed. The speed of both the carriages and the horses needs to be regulated.

ÿ  ‘

There are 31 camels licensed to enter Petra. Camels are currently limited to circulate between

the Treasury and the Qasr al-Bint area through the Colonnade Street. Camels do not impact

the monuments and environment as much as horses and donkeys do as they do not climb the

fragile Nabataean steps nor circulate along the Siq. Being slow-moving animals camels are

not as bothersome to visitors as horses and donkeys can be, and often draw visitors with their

colourful harnesses and traditional saddles. Their droppings, however, like their fellow

animals are a health hazard and unpleasant.

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º 

Although goats have traditionally grazed in Petra, the study/survey of the flora and fauna of

Petra showed that grazing has a very high and negative impact on the biodiversity of Petra;

however, they continue grazing despite the recommendations put forward by the study.

Goats are one of the main food sources and income for the communities of the Region.

An alternative area for animal grazing, outside the Park boundaries, needs to be determined.

 
‘‘ ‘ 
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‘

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PAP management is required to develop management zones within the tourist frequented

areas; one of the layers of zoning must address animal circulation. Based on the results of this

study a policy and regulations for animal circulation will evolve specifying areas in which

donkeys are allowed to circulate. In this way, the continuation of the use of transport can be

sustained without creating damage to the site while maintaining the socio-economic benefits

to the local owners from the surrounding villages.

The use of donkeys to transport visitors using the Turkomania exit. This is the traditional

method of transportation that the inhabitants of Petra used and is more suitable than the

alternative that is being proposed by the Government i.e the use of diesel motor vehicles

whose emissions have a very negative impact on the monuments as well as the environment

and ecology of Petra.

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PNT will look into the possibility of working with the Humane Centre for Animal Welfare in

order to prevent further maltreatment of donkeys in Petra. The Centre has recently opened a

mobile veterinary unit which travels the country to reach communities that cannot afford to

visit a veterinary and also provides training on how to care for work animals.

‘‘

The circulation pattern of horses needs to be incorporated into the management zone plan and

a written policy and procedures regarding numbers permitted and circulation patterns needs

to be developed. Besides that, the speed at which the horses and the carriages move needs to

be monitored and controlled. This shows that there is an urgent need to develop a

management policy for all transportation animals within and outside the Park boundaries.

ÿ  ‘

Camels are also a source of income for the local communities that own them so banning them

from the Park altogether is not a practical solution. Due to the fact that they circulate over

the Colonnade Street, a study should be conducted to assess the impact that this has over the

paved road should they be allowed to continue with this activity.

The circulation pattern of camels should be incorporated into the management zone plan and

written regulations and policies regarding numbers permitted and circulation patterns needs

to be developed.

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Overflights and landings in the Petra Archaeological Park (PAP) do not only have a serious

impact on the geological stability of the site resulting from the vibrations that these flights

generate but noise also adversely affects Park resources and values and interferes with visitor

enjoyment and experience.

Helicopters overflights and landings are permitted for sightseeing, photography, film

shootings and similar purposes in the absence of scientific research to establish their impact

on the PAP resources and integrity. No policy, regulations or procedures are in place for such

flights irrespective of their nature and purpose.

Over the years the Petra National Trust (PNT) has on numerous occasions written to the

Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities as well as the Petra Archaeological Park (PAP) drawing

their attention to the negative impact of over flights on Petra¶s integrity and site significance.

What has stopped was over flights for sightseeing purposes, however, other types of flights

are still continue which caused the inevitable damage that helicopter flights have on a fragile

sandstone sites.

As a recommendation in a site with the geological fragility, PNT recommends that only

flights that serve the purpose of archaeological scientific research and conservation are

permitted to use the helicopter.

Besides that, PNT recommends that until such time when policy on over flights and aviation

uses are issued which regulations and procedures are based on scientific research and

monitoring are in place, helicopter flights irrespective of their purpose should be stopped

totally.

·

º 
 ‘ ‘ 

 ‘‘‘


The UNESCO Management Plan of 1994 defined Petra¶s significance on the world stage by

identifying its values which includes its cultural, natural, and socio-anthropological values as

well as its ³striking varied geological features and landscapes´. Due to potential hazardous in

Petra, unstable conditions that may lead to rock block fall with consequences on tourists that

crowds every day the Siq during their visit to Petra.

The Siq is a 1.2 km naturally formed gorge in the Sandstone Mountains that served, during

the Nabataean times, and still serves today, as the main entrance to the site. The width of the

Siq ranges from 3 metres at its narrowest point, to 15.7 metres at its widest. An average of

2300 visitors passes through the Siq every day (in peak times this can reach approximately

5000 visitors per day). The area of the Siq exhibits a very hazardous situations in terms of

slope stability conditions and may be considered as the most sensitive and critical area of the

archaeological site of Petra.

An expansion in the fracture of one of the stone in Siq was noted in March 2009 and a short

term emergency mission to study the imminent risk of the collapse of the unstable rock and

recommend mitigation measures for its consolidation. A UNESCO World Heritage Centre

(WHC) specialist in geological engineering and conservation, Dr. Guiseppe Delmonaco,

undertook it. A preliminary assessment through visual observation on slope stability

conditions was carried out. Some potential hazardous portions of the Siq were detected,

especially those where discontinuity systems outcrop in the sandstone rock that may

potentially fall.

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Until this assessment is performed, it is extremely important that any movement that may

cause vibration that will affect the stability of rocks must be reduced to a minimum. It is with

safety in mind and the integrity of this World Heritage site that PNT strongly recommends

that activities like marathons and uncontrolled carriage movement be stopped in the Siq.

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A running marathon has been licensed to take place in Petra in September of 2009. The route

the Marathon will take runners from the visitor¶s Centre, through the Siq, into the Khazne

courtyard and onward through the ³spine´ and thereafter Siq al-Barid (Little Petra as it is

known to tourists) to the wastewater management plant to the north and back.

The staging of events in Petra referred to as ³special uses´. Running marathons dinners,

concerts and performances are conducted in the absence of zoning, regulations and guidelines

that determine relevancy to site significance and integrity and monitor these events. Such

activities detract from site significance and cause irreversible damage to the monuments and

environment of Petra.

The UNESCO Management Plan states that the only type of commercial activity, which

could be compatible with a World Heritage Site, that which draws its inspiration from

intrinsic cultural values and uses the site as a powerful background to enhance and make its

cultural message more easily understood. Staging an event unrelated to the character and

history of the site would considerably detract from the significance of the site, compromise

·r
its international reputation, discourage potential interested visitors from coming and possibly

cause irreversible damage to the physical integrity of the site.

There are a few reasons behind it. First, it is not compatible with site significance and does

not promote better understanding of the park values. Secondly, the carrying capacity of the

Park does cannot accommodate the additional number of people. Thirdly, it disturbs visitors

by reducing the quality of the visit. Lastly, the vibrations that the running can cause may have

a serious impact on the structural stability in the Siq especially.

To-date, despite the recommendations of the UNESCO Management Plan and ensuing plans

and recommendations, such events continue to take place in Petra. The latest such

infringement on the Park is the licensing of this running marathon in September 2009.

It is partly due to lack of awareness, profit driven policies, commercialization and promotion

of Jordan as a tourist destination that prompts the concerned governmental bodies to license

these activities without due consideration to the damage these activities can cause and the

negative propaganda that it can bring to this fragile World Heritage Site as well as the

country.

Since early in 2008 Petra National Trust (PNT) has been pursuing its recommendation to seek

an alternative route outside the Park. The recommendations that has been made by PNT are

seeking an alternative route for the Marathon. The Petra National Trust (PNT) has

recommended that the road on the periphery of the northwestern boundary of the Park can be

used as the alternative route. Besides that, develop a zoning management plan for the entire

protected area of 264 km2 and determine the uses of zone-by-zone.

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Develop a zoning management plan for the areas with a high density of archaeological

monuments that is frequented by visitors including the Siq and other monuments along the

primary trail, and the Siq al-Barid as well as the recent excavations in that vicinity. Every

effort should be made to stop the licensing events until such time when the management

zones and procedures are developed and implemented. In the meantime until a policy on

³special uses´ events has been developed and adopted, events must be studied on a case-by-

case basis by a ³committee of specialists´ appointed by the PAP Council.

··
#)(‘
‘‘

Jordan. 2010. Retrieved on Aug 21, 2010, from

<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan>.

Jaber, J. Bickerton, and Verity Elizabeth Irvine. ³Jordan´ Britannica Online Encyclopedia.

12 March. 2010 .

Retrieved on Aug 21, 2010 from

R http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/306128/Jordan>.

Major Attractions. Jordan. 2010. Retrieved Aug 21, 2010, from

<http://www.visitjordan.com/visitjordan_cms/MajorAttractions/tabid/54/Default.aspx>

Jordan Statistic. Tourist Statistical Bulletin, Statistical Bulletin for the first quarter 2010.

Volume VI-Issue II. ³Tourism Statistic 2010 ± First Half´. 2010. Retrieved on Aug 21, 2010,

from

< http://www.locateme.jo/Stat2010v2/stat.html>

Florian, J. ³Jordan sees 2010 tourism surge 32%.´ AME Info FZ LLC/ Emap Limited. (June

29, 2010) : 21 Aug. 2010 < http://www.ameinfo.com/236571.html>

United States. Service Of The Bureau Of Consular Affairs. U.S Department of State. Jordan

Country Specific Information. 2010. 21 Aug. 2010

< http://travel.his.com/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1149.html#page>

·•
Holly Hayes. ³The Siq, Petra.´ Scared Destination. 7.8 (2009). 21 Aug. 2010

< http://www.sacred-destinations.com/jordan/petra-siq>

Greg. Petra. 2008. Welcome To Greg¶s Travel Page. Oct. 2008

<http://www.planetcarter.com/Jordan/Petra.html>

Magablih, K., & Al-Shorman, A. (2009). Tourism Analysis Vol. 13, the physical carrying

capacity at the cultural heritage site of petra (pp. 511-515). New York : Cognizant

Communication Corporation.

Petra National Trust. (2010) Petra, Retrieved Aug 21, 2010, from

http://www.pnt.jo/UI/ShowContent.aspx?ContentId=6

Keys to the Kingdom. (2001). Retrieved on Aug 21, 2010, from

< http://www.kinghussein.gov.jo/history.html>

The Hashmite Vision. (2001) ). Retrieved on Aug 21, 2010, from

<http://www.kinghussein.gov.jo/f_affairs4.html#The Hashemite Vision>

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