Madaba named Arab Tourism Capital for 2022

AMMAN — Madaba was named the Arab Tourism Capital for 2022 after meeting the criteria and terms of reference as stipulated by the Arab Tourism Organisation (ATO), the Tourism Ministry announced on Monday.

In a statement cited by the Jordan News Agency, Petra, Tourism Minister Nayef Fayez said that naming Madaba as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2022 will boost tourism movement in the city and in Jordan.

Fayez added that the announcement will play a role in attracting “pioneering investment projects”, investing the city’s unique natural, cultural and religious resources in increasing job opportunities.

The ministry seeks to turn Madaba into a centre for cultural and religious heritage and a home to mosaics and handicrafts in the Kingdom, the minister noted. 

He stressed that the city is rich in heritage and archaeological and religious monuments, and is famous for its “picturesque natural landmarks of distinctive valleys and unique mountain views”.

The ATO extended its congratulations to the ministry, pointing out that the organisation is working hard, in cooperation with the ministry, to develop tourism in Jordan and turn it into “a special tourist destination for the Arab world”.

The organisation said that the selection criteria focused on each city’s tourism management, infrastructure and resources, the diversity of tourism patterns and activities, the preservation and protection of the environment, as well as the city’s safety and security.

The ATO noted that the aim of this initiative is to support the inter-Arab tourism movement and highlight the uniqueness, customs and traditions of each city.