World Summit on Medical Tourism opens in Jordan

AMMAN, Jordan

The Sixth World Summit on Medical Tourism kicked off in Jordanian capital Amman on Saturday to discuss ways of strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors in this field.

Organized by the Pioneers Road and Talal Abu Ghazaleh NGOs in coordination with the Jordanian Tourism Authority, the two-day summit is attended by more than 50 medical tourism experts and specialists from 20 countries.

Bandar bin Fahd Al-Fuhaid, the head of the Arab Tourism Organization, a subsidiary organ of the Arab League, is also taking part in the meeting.

Speaking during the summit, Al-Fuhaid said the COVID-19 pandemic has cost the tourism sector in the region more than $200 billion in losses.

He also noted the importance of medical tourism in the Arab world which he said surpassed $30 billion in spending.

Jordan is known for its natural treatment ranging from hot water springs rich in salt, and volcanic mud, as well as mild weather and picturesque nature, making it a preferred destination for those seeking therapeutic resorts.

Tourism income in Jordan declined by 44% during the first half of 2021 on an annual basis compared to the same period in 2020, according to the latest statistics of the country’s Central Bank.

* Writing by Ibrahim Mukhtar