Amid preparations for the highly anticipated Jerash Festival and the expected increase in tourism, Jordan’s tourism police are stepping up their presence in the Kingdom. A senior official source revealed that a well-organized seasonal plan has been devised to ensure a safe tourism season, directed by the Public Security Directorate’s Maj. Gen. Obaidallah Maaytah.
The plan involves coordinated efforts with various national entities to ensure a smooth and secure tourism experience for all sectors involved. The Tourism Police Department is set to play a pivotal role in this security process.
The 37th Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, scheduled from July 26 to August 5, is expected to attract a significant number of visitors. Jordan Tourism Board officials are determined to surpass past tourism performance by establishing new partnerships with low-cost airlines, adopting a robust marketing strategy, and offering diverse, comprehensive programs to attract tourists from a wide range of countries.
To ensure the safety and security of tourists during this surge in tourism, law enforcement presence will be heightened at popular tourist attractions. The senior official emphasized that the presence of the tourist police cadre has a direct impact on the tourism industry and contributes to the economic and developmental conditions in tourist areas.
Furthermore, the tourism police have implemented a prevention system that allows tourists to report safety and health hazards publicly. This system enables law enforcement to respond promptly, ensuring that tourists can enjoy their visit without any security concerns.
Apart from their increased presence and safety initiatives, the tourism police also play a crucial role in protecting the natural and cultural values of protected areas and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, and Petra Development Tourism Regional Authority, they address activities that may jeopardize the sustainability of these sites.
Jordan’s tourism infrastructure, including the reliability of its police services, has been highly praised, earning recognition in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019.
