N※N

Prince Harry & Meghan's Visit Sparks Tourism Boom in Jordan

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. eghan-s-visit-sparks-tourism-boom-in-jordan.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 16:07 GMT by USA Today
      Locales: UNITED STATES, JORDAN

Amman, Jordan - February 25th, 2026 - The impact of Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan's highly publicized visit to Jordan in late 2024 continues to reverberate through the kingdom's tourism sector, resulting in a sustained and significant boom. What began as a short trip designed to highlight Jordanian culture and support local communities has blossomed into a demonstrable surge in international interest and bookings, exceeding initial optimistic projections.

Two years after their initial visit, Jordan is experiencing a wave of tourism unlike anything seen in the past decade. While the country was already a recognized destination for history buffs and adventure seekers, the "Harry and Meghan effect" has broadened its appeal, attracting a new demographic of travelers - particularly those interested in culturally immersive experiences and sustainable tourism. Travel agencies across Jordan report consistently high booking numbers, with Petra and Wadi Rum remaining predictably popular, but experiencing an unprecedented level of demand.

Initial reports of a 'spike' in interest following the 2024 visit have evolved into a sustained growth trajectory. The Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) now estimates a 35% increase in overall tourism revenue compared to pre-visit levels, and projects further growth of 10-15% in 2026. This isn't simply a fleeting moment of royal fascination; the JTB attributes the continued success to a carefully curated marketing strategy leveraging the couple's visit and the positive media coverage it generated.

Beyond Petra and Wadi Rum, areas previously overlooked by mainstream tourism are now benefitting. The Dana Biosphere Reserve, known for its biodiversity and hiking trails, is experiencing a surge in eco-tourism, aligning with the values championed by the Duke and Duchess during their visit. Local communities in villages along the King's Highway, a historic trade route, are also reporting increased visitor numbers, driven by a desire to experience authentic Jordanian life. The couple's emphasis on supporting local artisans and businesses has proven particularly impactful, with demand for handmade crafts, traditional Jordanian cuisine, and locally-guided tours exceeding supply in some areas.

"We anticipated a positive impact, but the scale of the response has been truly remarkable," explains Hala El-Khatib, Director of Marketing at the JTB. "Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan didn't just visit Jordan; they actively engaged with the culture, met with local people, and genuinely expressed appreciation for our heritage. This authenticity resonated with audiences globally, and they've become powerful ambassadors for our country."

The Jordanian government has responded to the tourism boom by investing heavily in infrastructure development. A new eco-lodge project in Wadi Rum, focused on sustainable tourism practices, is nearing completion, and several smaller boutique hotels are being built in the historic city of Salt. Efforts are also underway to improve transportation links between key tourist destinations, and to expand the capacity of Amman's Queen Alia International Airport. Concerns about overtourism, however, are beginning to emerge. The JTB is working with local communities to ensure that the influx of visitors doesn't compromise the authenticity of the Jordanian experience or strain local resources. A new initiative, "Responsible Jordan," promotes sustainable travel practices and encourages visitors to respect local customs and traditions.

Experts also note that the increased tourism has spurred foreign investment in Jordan's hospitality sector. Several international hotel chains are now planning expansions or new developments in the country, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. Furthermore, the spotlight on Jordanian culture has led to a rise in interest in Jordanian art, music, and cuisine internationally, boosting cultural exports.

The long-term benefits of the royal visit are expected to extend beyond the tourism sector. The increased international attention is also attracting investment in other key industries, such as renewable energy and technology. Jordan is increasingly positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and sustainable development, and the boost in tourism is playing a vital role in this transformation. The Kingdom is keen to build on this momentum, and is actively exploring opportunities to collaborate with Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan on future initiatives that promote responsible tourism and cultural preservation.