Over 100,000 Visitors Flock To Aqaba During Eid Al-Adha Holiday

(MENAFN- Jordan News Agency)

Aqaba, June 11 (Petra) -- More than 106,000 visitors traveled to Aqaba over the Eid Al-Adha holiday, driving hotel occupancy rates to an average of 91% and contributing to a surge in tourism and commercial activity in the coastal city, according to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA).
The influx of visitors, who stayed an average of two nights during the six-day holiday, included around 90,000 domestic tourists who entered through the Wadi Al-Yutum and Wadi Araba border crossings, in addition to 16,000 international tourists arriving via land, sea, and air routes.
ASEZA Chief Commissioner Shadi Ramzi Al-Majali said the holiday period proceeded smoothly despite the high number of arrivals, crediting a coordinated operational plan implemented by ASEZA, the Aqaba Governorate, and various public service agencies. The plan focused on maintaining essential services, managing traffic, and facilitating customs procedures at all entry points.
Majali highlighted the successful execution of the plan under the leadership of Aqaba Governor Khaled Al-Hajaj and the efforts of security forces and public service personnel. Traffic flow was maintained, congestion was minimized, and no delays were reported in customs processing.
Wadi Rum also saw a significant boost in tourism, attracting around 6,500 visitors during the holiday, including 4,000 international tourists. Visitor numbers were monitored through a smart camera system installed at Aqaba's entry points to ensure accurate tracking.
Port operations continued without interruption, with the smooth flow of goods supported by the Jordan Customs Department, the Aqaba Company for Ports Operation and Management, and the Aqaba Container Terminal. Majali confirmed there were no delays in cargo handling during the holiday.
He also attributed the increased tourist activity to ASEZA's marketing initiatives and public events, as well as partnerships with the private sector. A range of free cultural, musical, and folkloric performances were organized in the Great Arab Revolt Square, attracting both residents and tourists. Highlights included performances by Jordanian artists and folk groups, a drone light show, and a fireworks display over the Red Sea to mark Eid Al-Adha, Army Day, the King's Accession Day, and the national football team's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As part of the "Amwaj Aqaba" festival, two major concerts were held featuring artists Nassif Zeytoun and Rahma Riad on the city's southern beach amphitheater.
In addition to entertainment activities, ASEZA and its partners launched several environmental initiatives. The Environmental Affairs Commission rolled out the "Leave It Clean" campaign across border crossings and public beaches, distributing awareness materials and eco-friendly fabric bags to visitors. The campaign was supported by the Royal Department for Environmental Protection, waste management company Urbaser, youth committees, and community volunteers.
The Aqaba Marine Reserve conducted underwater cleanup campaigns and round-the-clock coastal monitoring in collaboration with the environmental protection authorities. Special teams were deployed to prevent violations and pollution in areas with high visitor density.
To support public health and safety, ASEZA operated the city's slaughterhouse throughout the holiday and intensified food inspections to ensure safe and legal sales of consumables. Health inspectors worked around the clock to monitor establishments handling food products.
The city's public services department implemented a comprehensive plan to maintain facilities and respond to complaints. In cooperation with Urbaser, the city increased the number of sanitation workers, particularly in markets, slaughter zones, beaches, and downtown areas. Waste collection shifts were extended to operate 24/7, with additional garbage compactors deployed in commercial and hotel districts.
Majali commended the collaborative efforts of all agencies and personnel involved in managing the Eid holiday, emphasizing their unified and professional approach in providing seamless services to Aqaba's visitors.

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