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Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - A series of high-profile events will enable Jordan to train its sights on youth, faith and wellness travel segments and enhance its appeal to Asian visitors, according to the mayor of capital city Amman, Akel Biltaji, who was in Singapore earlier this week for the World Cities Summit.

The World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa, which will be held in Jordan in May 2017, "will demonstrate how peace-loving and safe the country is”.

“The event will also serve to raise Jordan’s profile as an attractive tourist destination in the minds of global travellers, including Asians,” Akel stated, citing Asia as an important source market due to its rising disposable income.

The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will take place in Amman, Irbid and Zarqa from September 30 to October 21 this year, is particularly "significant" as it not only positions the country as a supporter of youth events but also marks Jordan's promotion for women activities.

Meanwhile, the annual Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts this month attracts “waves of people from the Gulf and Europe”.

Jordan will continue to leverage its ancient culture and abundant religious sites, as well as easy access to Jerusalem to attract religious travellers.

The mayor also touted the country’s advanced medical offerings as a drawcard for Europeans seeking more affordable treatments overseas.

“We have the world’s biggest natural spa – the Red Sea – which has health-giving benefits”, he said.

Accessibility between the Middle Eastern country and Asia has been enhanced through Royal Jordanian’s April first China route, a thrice-weekly service linking Guangzhou and Amman. It was launched in April this year.

*TTG