The Economic Impacts of World Bank Heritage Investments in Jordan

Jordan’s unique cultural and historical assets are a major draw card in attracting international tourists and in earning much-needed foreign exchange to support the Jordanian economy. The tourism industry is also of critical importance as a significant employer of labor. But it is becoming increasingly apparent that the potential of the industry is not being fully realized. Although several iconic sites are well presented, there are numerous smaller heritage locations such as historic city centers in regional towns that are less well known but that have much to offer to tourists. Improvement of tourist facilities and visitor access in such places offers the possibility of increasing local employment opportunities and engaging communities with their own cultural and economic development.