UAE and Saudi travellers fuel sharp travel spike to Jordan by mid-2025
Petra, Amman, the Dead Sea top list as Jordan draws growing numbers of Gulf tourists
Dubai: Jordan is fast becoming a go-to destination for UAE and GCC travellers, with the first half of 2025 showing a surge in tourist numbers — even as parts of the region continue to face geopolitical tension.
According to the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), the Kingdom welcomed 2.7 million overnight tourists from January to June — a 14% jump compared to the same period in 2024. And travellers from the Gulf are leading that rise.
UAE, Saudi visitors on the rise in Jordan
Saudi Arabia topped the list of GCC countries visiting Jordan, sending 564,000 overnight visitors — up 8% from last year. UAE residents, too, are discovering Jordan in greater numbers, with visits rising 15% to 10,000 tourists in H1 2025.
Despite a slight dip from Kuwait and other Western markets, the tourism board sees this Gulf market growth as a vote of confidence in Jordan’s safety, hospitality, and shared cultural values.
“Jordan continues to be a welcoming and safe destination, especially for our Gulf neighbours,” said Dr. Abdulrazzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board. “Our shared traditions and close proximity make it a natural choice for UAE families seeking culture, relaxation, and nature.”
Where UAE travellers are going in Jordan
Top tourist attractions are enjoying renewed momentum:
Petra saw 200,000 foreign visitors, up 17% year-on-year.
Mount Nebo, an important religious site, hosted 105,000 visitors, up 12%.
Jerash, known for its Roman ruins, welcomed nearly 70,000 tourists.
For many UAE residents, Jordan offers a refreshing break from city life — think cooler summer escapes in Amman’s hills, Dead Sea wellness retreats, or desert adventures in Wadi Rum. And with Arabic-speaking guides, familiar cuisine, and family-friendly experiences, it’s both convenient and comfortable.
Tourism rebounds despite conflict next door
Despite challenges — including the ongoing Gaza conflict and regional flight disruptions — Jordan has managed to grow its tourism economy by focusing on GCC markets and new travel routes.
“We are the calm house between noisy neighbours,” Dr. Arabiyat told Gulf News, adding that Jordan has invested heavily in messaging to reassure travellers it remains open, peaceful, and safe.
The drop in European and American visitors (who typically book multi-site, guided tours) was largely offset by the 25% rise in GCC and Arab tourists, who often prefer Amman, northern Jordan, and independent travel.
More routes, more hotels, more reasons to go
To make Jordan even more accessible, Royal Jordanian Airlines is adding flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other Asian hubs. Talks are ongoing to resume Ryanair and Wizz Air services by October. Joint ventures with Qatar are also on the table to expand long-haul connections.
Meanwhile, Jordan is encouraging investment in mid-range hotels in Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea — perfect for UAE travellers looking for quality without luxury price tags.
Dr. Arabiyat said the goal is clear: reach 10 million overnight visitors by 2033, while prioritising high-quality tourism over mass numbers.
Thinking of going? Here's what to expect
Direct flights from UAE to Amman or Aqaba
Visa on arrival for UAE nationals
Cultural familiarity and Arabic-speaking locals
Family-friendly experiences, from Roman ruins to natural wonders
Wellness and religious tourism options
Year-round travel — summer in the north, winter escapes in the south
As bookings recover and forward demand strengthens, Jordan seems set to reclaim its spot as one of the Middle East’s most rewarding travel destinations.
So if you’re looking for a quick getaway packed with culture, heritage, and hospitality — Jordan is calling.
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