Jordan back in the spotlight for travellers: Return of low-cost airlines boosts tourism recovery
Tourism in Jordan is experiencing renewed momentum. Following a period of uncertainty caused by regional conflicts, the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism has announced that low-cost airlines will be returning to the Jordanian market towards the end of 2025. This decision comes as a clear sign of stabilisation and growing confidence in the safety of travel to this Middle Eastern destination. Furthermore, Royal Jordanian is also introducing a series of new flights planned for 2026, including a probable flight to Belgrade in the summer timetable.
Tourism minister Lina Annab stated that negotiations are underway with several low-cost airlines to re-establish air links to Jordan. This decision follows the temporary suspension of flights by numerous companies due to security threats linked to the Israeli-Iranian conflict, which has impacted the entire region.
The return of these flights has multiple positive effects – it increases the destination's accessibility, encourages the arrival of budget-conscious travellers, and supports the economic recovery of a sector that makes up a significant portion of the country's GDP.
The impact of conflict on tourism
Air traffic to Jordan decreased during the spring due to security threats and changes in aircraft routes. In June, tourism revenue fell by 3.71% to US$619.2 million, while spending by Jordanian citizens abroad also dropped by 22.7%. However, by July the situation began to stabilise.
Thanks to the swift reaction of the Ministry of Tourism and the improvement in the security situation, the sector is returning to an upward trajectory.
Despite the challenges, Jordan recorded a 11.91 per cent increase in tourism revenue in the first half of 2025, with total revenues of USD 3.667 billion. This confirms the sector's resilience and Jordan's enduring appeal as a destination.
The following growth sources are particularly noteworthy:
- Asia: +42,9%
- Europe: +35,6%
- US and Canada: +25,8%
- Arab countries: +11,5%
- Other countries: +43,0%
These results confirm that Jordan is successfully diversifying its markets and becoming increasingly attractive to global travellers.
Jordan has shown resilience and the ability to recover quickly, despite the challenges. The expected return of low-cost and scheduled flights marks a new phase in tourism development – one that is more accessible, connected, and open to a wider audience.
With increasing revenues, a stabilised security situation, and growing interest from travellers from Asia, Europe, and America, Jordan is once again reclaiming an important position on the world's tourism map. If current trends continue, the Kingdom has all the prerequisites to become one of the most significant tourist hubs in the Middle East in the coming years.
