The Jordan Hotels Association, represented by its Chairman Hussein Hilalat and the board members, participated in a dialogue session organized by the Jordanian Businessmen Association under the title: “Challenges Facing the Tourism Sector Amid Regional Circumstances.”

During his remarks, Hilalat emphasized that the hotel sector is facing significant challenges, including a noticeable decline in occupancy rates, limited financial liquidity, and difficulties in meeting financial obligations, all of which directly impact the continuity and sustainability of businesses within the sector.

He pointed out that the sector has been significantly affected by the ongoing regional developments, noting that several tourist destinations — most notably Petra and Madaba — were among the hardest hit areas, resulting in the closure of a number of hotel establishments.

Hilalat added that government interventions had been positive regarding several previously raised demands; however, a number of issues remain unresolved and require urgent attention, particularly with regard to facilitating access to the government-approved loan program for the hotel sector. The program aims to support business continuity and cover operational expenses through interest-free financing for a period of one year.

He also stressed the importance of addressing matters related to the Income and Sales Tax Department by allowing hotel establishments to reschedule their financial obligations without penalties or interest, in addition to reconsidering precautionary seizure procedures in a manner that takes into account the unique nature of the sector.

Hilalat concluded his remarks by emphasizing that the hotel sector has endured multiple crises that have negatively impacted its performance and investments, stressing that supporting the sector and standing by it during this period is essential to ensuring its sustainability and strengthening its role in supporting the national economy and the tourism sector in the Kingdom.