Petra, Jan. 28 (Petra) – Chief Commissioner of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Faris Briezat, chaired a meeting on Tuesday with the Petra Tourist Guides Association and security officials to discuss preparations for the return of tourism to Petra, address challenges, and review organizational matters.

The meeting was attended by Petra District Governor Satam Majali, Brigadier General Hisham Shamaila, Director of West Ma’an Police, Yazan Mahadin, Commissioner of Petra Archeology Park and Tourism, Lieutenant Colonel Amin Shdeifat, Head of the Southern Tourism Police Branch, Hamza Hilalat, representative of the Tourist Guides Association, and several tourist guides and relevant PDTRA directors.

Breizat stated that PDTRA is committed to implementing the rule of law and development plan in Petra, both inside and outside the archaeological site, to ensure the preservation of Petra as a historical archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. He emphasized the importance of ensuring tourists can visit Petra without any disruptions or obstacles.

He explained that PDTRA will enhance its readiness to welcome the upcoming tourist season, with expectations of a gradual return of tourism in the coming period. This will ensure smooth movement, reduce congestion, and provide a comfortable experience for visitors while improving the quality of services, including tourist guiding, transportation, and horse and camel services.

Breizat stressed the need for concerted efforts to elevate the tourism sector in Petra to reflect its distinguished status on the global tourism map and showcase the civilized image of Petra’s residents and Jordanians in general to visitors.

He confirmed that the role of observers, along with tourism police, will be activated at the Petra Visitor Center, Petra Museum, and all other sites to prevent violations, exploitation of tourists, and unauthorized access to the archaeological site.

For his part, Petra District Governor Satam Majali affirmed that, in cooperation with PDTRA, security campaigns will be intensified to monitor the implementation of plans, ensure the safety of the archaeological site, and regulate the work of tourism service providers and transportation services outside the site to ensure visitor comfort and appropriate service delivery.

Hamza Hilalat, President of the Petra Tourist Guides Association, highlighted the importance of providing accurate and appropriate information to tourists by guides. He noted that tourist guides are essential partners in reflecting Petra’s bright image and developing the tourism process in Petra.

He also pointed out PDTRA’s critical role in ensuring violations do not return to the archaeological site and finding solutions to some of the challenges faced by tourists.

//Petra// AF
28/01/2025 23:36:48