Jordan’s tourism income surged by 21.5 percent in September 2026, reaching $794.3 million, according to preliminary data from the Central Bank of Jordan. This marks a significant increase compared to the same period in 2025. The rise in revenue helped offset declines from European and US visitors, which saw a 23.7 percent drop in income for the first nine months of 2026.
Tourism receipts for the first nine months of 2026 totaled $6.35 billion, reflecting a 4.9 percent increase year on year. The Central Bank reported that gains in tourism income were driven by stronger performance from other markets, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Holiday packages from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Japan contributed to this growth, as noted by travel industry reports.
The tourism sector in Jordan has seen a shift in visitor demographics, with increased interest from tourists in the Gulf and Asia. This trend aligns with broader global tourism growth, as highlighted by travel agencies promoting Jordan as a budget-friendly destination. The government has also been promoting Jordan’s cultural and historical attractions to attract more international visitors.
The rise in tourism revenue comes amid ongoing efforts to diversify Jordan’s economy and reduce reliance on oil exports. The Central Bank’s data underscores the resilience of the tourism sector despite challenges from international travel restrictions and fluctuating visitor numbers.
