Neglected group

According to the World Health Organisation, senior citizens (individuals who are 60 years old and above) will make up more than 22 per cent of the world’s population in 2050.

This age bracket has become important to the tourism industry, but senior citizen tourism has different requirements, sometimes similar to those of people with disabilities. 

Despite the importance of the senior travel market, managers and tourism services providers in the Middle East pay little attention to it.

Jordan is no exception; here, most tourist sites are ill equipped to receive this type of tourists.

Investment in this area would be money well spent, as it would also benefit tourists with disabilities and families with children.

It is hoped that tourism managers in Jordan take into consideration the importance of senior tourism and consider these people when they draw up plans and strategies for the future.

Mamoon Allan,
Amman