Amman
Jordan
GDN DESTINATION REPORT
Overview: Amman, the capital of Jordan, is an important destination within the Governmental Destination Network (GDN). As a key political and economic hub in the Middle East, Amman plays a crucial role in regional diplomacy and international relations. Its strategic location at the heart of the Levant, combined with its stable political environment and modern infrastructure, has positioned Amman as a significant location for governmental and institutional events. The identification of Amman as a key destination by the GDN underscores its importance in the sector of Governmental and Institutional Travel, highlighting its role in fostering diplomacy and regional cooperation.
Infrastructure and services
Recent Updates: Amman has seen considerable investments in infrastructure aimed at enhancing its capacity to host large-scale governmental events. The expansion of Queen Alia International Airport and the development of new business districts, such as Abdali, have significantly improved the city's connectivity and ability to accommodate international delegations. Key venues such as the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Center and the Grand Hyatt Amman offer state-of-the-art facilities for high-profile conferences and events. Amman provides a comprehensive service ecosystem, including luxury hotels, advanced security services, and efficient logistics, all tailored to meet the demands of international gatherings.
Benchmarking destinations
Comparison with Other Key Destinations: Compared to other capitals in the region, such as Beirut in Lebanon and Cairo in Egypt, Amman stands out for its political stability and its role as a mediator in regional conflicts. While Beirut is known for its cultural diversity and Cairo for its historical significance, Amman offers a unique combination of political influence and a commitment to peace and security. According to data from the Jordan Tourism Board, Amman has seen a 15% increase in international governmental events from 2018 to 2023, with annual revenues from governmental and corporate events estimated at $120 million.
Growth projections
Growth Projections: The governmental and institutional travel sector in Amman is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years. Based on projections from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Amman is anticipated to experience annual growth of 5% to 7% in this sector. This growth will be driven by ongoing investments in infrastructure, including further developments in hotel and conference facilities across the city. It is estimated that by 2028, revenues generated by the MICE sector in Amman could exceed $180 million annually, solidifying its position as a leading destination for governmental and institutional events in the Middle East.
Successful experiences
World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa (2019): Amman successfully hosted the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa in 2019, bringing together leaders from across the globe to discuss regional economic challenges and opportunities. This event highlighted Amman's capability to organize large-scale international gatherings. Another success story is the Amman Security Forum, an annual event that has positioned Amman as a key player in regional security and diplomacy.
Testimonials
King Abdullah II of Jordan: 'Amman is a city of great political and economic significance, well-prepared to host international events that contribute to regional and global diplomacy and cooperation.' Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum: 'The organization of the World Economic Forum in Amman was outstanding, showcasing the city's readiness to engage with the international community on critical issues.' Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations: 'Amman's role in hosting international events underscores its importance as a center for diplomacy and peacebuilding in the Middle East.'
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Green Initiatives: Amman is committed to sustainability in event management, with initiatives such as the adoption of renewable energy in key venues and the promotion of eco-friendly transportation options for international delegates. The city is also advancing circular economy practices, focusing on waste reduction and the use of locally sourced materials in event planning. These efforts contribute to Amman's broader goals of environmental sustainability and urban development.
Social impact
Local Development: Governmental events in Amman have significantly contributed to local development, creating jobs and enhancing skills in sectors such as logistics, security, and hospitality. The city has implemented extensive training programs for local workers and actively involves small and medium-sized enterprises in the event supply chain. These initiatives have strengthened social cohesion and promoted economic growth, contributing to Jordan's broader economic goals.
Conclusion
Key Points Summary: Amman is firmly establishing itself as a central hub within the Governmental Destination Network (GDN), with a rapidly developing infrastructure, a growing ecosystem of sophisticated services, and a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. As the city continues to expand its influence on the international stage, its strategic location and proven ability to host high-profile governmental events make it a vital player in the Middle East. Expectations are that Amman will continue to strengthen its role as a preferred destination for diplomacy and major international events in the coming years.
The information presented in this GDN REPORT on government destinations has been prepared to offer a comprehensive overview of the most strategic destinations globally. In this research process, a wide range of sources and studies carried out by prestigious international consulting, tourism and travel firms, as well as by international organizations such as the WTTC and UN Tourism, have been used. In addition, local, national and international reports have been incorporated, ensuring a comprehensive and global perspective. To ensure accuracy and scientific rigor, data mining techniques, algorithms and artificial intelligence have been applied in the collection and analysis of the information. The result has been synthesized and condensed to offer clear, concise and truthful data, designed to provide decision-makers with the necessary tools to understand and make the most of the potential of these destinations. Our goal is to support the planning and organization of high-level events with accurate and relevant information, thus strengthening the role of each destination in diplomacy and international cooperation.