Dana Reserve witnesses 33 per cent rise in number of visitors

AMMAN —Dana Biosphere Reserve in 2017 has witnessed an increase in the number of domestic and foreign visitors by 33 per cent, amounting to 80,000 visitors compared to 50,000 last year, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported on Sunday.

According to the director of the reserve, Amer Rfou, the local community’s benefits from the eco-tourism amount to some JD1.6 million. Rfou noted that tourist visits included tours of archaeological sites, tourist and environmental facilities.

He pointed out the expansion project of the guest house, with a cost JD925,000, which is financed through a Royal initiative. The guest house will include 15 rooms and a dining area for up to 80 people, to be entirely powered by solar panels.