Jordan’s Petra Region Strengthens US Partnership for Sustainable Tourism and Infrastructure Growth

Published on November 30, 2025

The head of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Fares Braizat, and US Ambassador to Jordan, Jim Holtsnider, recently met at a high level in the historic city of Petra, Jordan, to discuss ways to strengthen the two countries’ long-standing cooperation. Their conversation mostly focused on community-driven initiatives, infrastructure development, and sustainable tourism practices that would support the local economy and protect Petra’s rich cultural legacy.

The Saturday meeting highlighted how crucial this partnership is to advancing Petra as a globally recognised travel destination and guaranteeing its sustainability for coming generations. This discussion also demonstrated the dedication of both sides to making sure that tourism in the area is both profitable and ecologically conscious.

Highlighting the US-Jordan Partnership

During the meeting, Fares Braizat expressed his deep appreciation for the continuous support provided by the United States in the development of Petra and its surrounding areas. He acknowledged that the partnership between the US and Jordan has been instrumental in the growth of the region’s tourism infrastructure and community development projects. This relationship has had a lasting impact on the sustainable development of Petra, ensuring that both the local community and global visitors benefit from the ongoing efforts.

The partnership’s success can be seen in various initiatives that have been implemented over the years. These include significant improvements to the site’s infrastructure, such as enhanced visitor facilities, upgraded transportation systems, and investments in sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, several community-based projects have been launched, benefiting local residents by creating job opportunities and fostering a greater appreciation for preserving their cultural heritage.

US Support for Sustainable Development in Petra

Ambassador Jim Holtsnider praised the efforts made by the PDTRA in preserving Petra’s cultural and historical significance while improving its overall tourism management. He highlighted the visible progress in site maintenance, which includes the restoration of ancient structures, conservation of the surrounding environment, and the implementation of tourism management strategies aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has long been a major draw for international visitors. As one of the most recognized and visited historical and archaeological sites in the world, it attracts millions of tourists annually. The US has been one of the largest sources of international visitors to the site, contributing significantly to the local tourism economy. Holtsnider noted that American tourists continue to be among the most frequent visitors to Petra, solidifying the region’s status as a global tourism destination.

Fostering Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism has been a key focus of the discussions between the US Ambassador and the PDTRA. With global tourism on the rise, the challenge of balancing development with conservation has never been more pressing. The PDTRA, in collaboration with international partners like the US, has worked hard to develop solutions that protect the site’s unique heritage while accommodating growing visitor numbers.

Efforts to promote sustainable tourism have included creating eco-friendly pathways for tourists, minimizing waste, and encouraging the use of renewable energy sources in the facilities surrounding Petra. Additionally, the local community has been involved in the management of tourism resources, ensuring that economic benefits are shared equitably and that cultural traditions are respected and preserved for future generations.

Petra’s Global Appeal

Ambassador Holtsnider reaffirmed the US’s commitment to continuing its support for Jordan’s tourism and development sectors. He emphasized that the global appeal of Petra remains strong, with visitors from around the world drawn to its unparalleled history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. The ambassador highlighted the US government’s ongoing efforts to bolster Jordan’s tourism industry through a variety of funding and development initiatives.

One of the key factors that have contributed to Petra’s sustained appeal is the continuous improvements to the overall visitor experience. These efforts include the development of educational programmes, enhanced signage, and guided tours that help visitors understand the historical significance of the site. Additionally, initiatives aimed at diversifying tourism offerings, such as ecotourism and adventure tourism in the surrounding areas, have been prioritized to provide a broader range of experiences for travelers.

Looking to the Future of Petra’s Tourism

As the discussions between Braizat and Holtsnider highlighted, there is a shared vision for Petra’s future as a sustainable, world-class tourism destination. Both sides expressed their commitment to deepening the partnership and building upon the existing framework of cooperation. The focus will remain on enhancing infrastructure, improving sustainability, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach local communities in a meaningful way.

Moving forward, the US is expected to continue playing a crucial role in the development of Jordan’s tourism sector, with a focus on preserving Petra’s exceptional heritage while ensuring its economic vitality. Further investments in sustainable tourism practices, heritage preservation, and community-based initiatives will likely be a priority for both the PDTRA and the US government in the years to come.

Conclusion

The meeting between the US Ambassador and the PDTRA Chief Commissioner serves as a reminder of the significant influence that international collaboration can have on the direction of travel worldwide. Petra will undoubtedly continue to be a symbol of sustainable tourism and cultural heritage for future generations if Jordan and the United States continue to work together. Both nations are contributing to the development of a more sustainable and inclusive tourism model by emphasising the preservation of Petra’s history, improving its infrastructure, and incorporating the local community in tourism management.