Published on
September 16, 2025
Jordan’s tourism sector is set for a robust revival as low-cost airlines gradually resume flights connecting the country to sixteen key European destinations, significantly boosting accessibility and travel opportunities. According to the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC), Hungary’s Wizz Air has already restarted twice-weekly services between Hungary and Jordan, while Ryanair plans to resume flights to sixteen European cities from October 28, starting operations to two destinations as soon as September 20. This expansion reconnects Jordan with major European destinations such as Italy, Poland, and Hungary, enhancing tourism flows and supporting economic recovery.
Low-Cost Airlines: Expanding Air Connectivity from Europe to Jorda
The reintroduction of low-cost carriers plays a pivotal role in Jordan’s tourism growth and regional connectivity. The CARC chairman highlighted that besides Wizz Air and Ryanair, three additional low-cost airlines are considering launching regular routes to Jordan, reflecting rising demand. Airlines receive permits for two flight seasons annually, winter and summer, and also have flexibility over year-round or seasonal operations. These air transport agreements are based on bilateral arrangements with Jordan’s government ensuring regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Jordanian Tourism Impact: More Visitors and Economic Growth
Low-cost carriers are not only promoting greater passenger volumes but are making Jordan more accessible to a broader traveler demographic beyond traditional tourism markets. In 2024, Ryanair and Wizz Air transported nearly 345,000 passengers to Jordan, while in 2023, six airlines collectively brought in around 885,000 travelers. The availability of budget-friendly airfares supports Jordan’s strategy to diversify and grow its tourism base, enabling visits to iconic sites including Petra, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, and the Red Sea coastline around Aqaba. Tourism receipts for the first half of 2025 reached approximately dollar 3.7 billion, an 11.9 percent increase, underpinning the sector’s vital contribution to Jordan’s economy.
Winter Season: Largest Low-Cost Flight Network to Date
The upcoming 2025/26 winter season marks a historic expansion in Jordan’s low-cost air routes, connecting the kingdom with as many as eighteen European destinations through carriers such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Eurowings. New routes enhance accessibility to the Red Sea port of Aqaba from cities like Katowice, Warsaw in Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria, developing the city’s role as a premier beach and winter tourism hub. Flight frequencies are expected to increase throughout the season, encouraging more extended stays and easing travel planning for European tourists captivated by Jordan’s heritage and natural wonders.
Beyond Tourism: Low-Cost Flights Support Broader Travel Needs
While tourism is a significant driver, CARC clarifies that low-cost flights cater to all passenger segments, including business travelers, diaspora communities, and educational journeys. The renewed connectivity fosters business exchanges, cultural ties, and family reunions alongside leisure travel, broadening Jordan’s profile as a regionally connected hub. This inclusive access model is expected to attract a diverse traveler mix supporting various sectors of the economy beyond hospitality.
Stability and Confidence Bolster Tourism Growth
The restoration and expansion of low-cost flights come amid regional geopolitical improvements and growing confidence in Jordan’s safety as a travel destination. The government and tourism stakeholders anticipate that as security concerns ease, tourism volumes will normalize and grow sustainably. Jordan’s ability to maintain competitive airfare options and develop infrastructure will be critical in consolidating its position as the Middle East’s gateway to culture, history, and natural beauty for European travelers.
The combination of improved security, broadened accessibility, and upgraded infrastructure solidifies Jordan’s position as the Middle East’s gateway to a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural wonders. Iconic destinations such as Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum are increasingly positioned to attract international tourists year-round, supported by an enhanced flight network and travel convenience. These factors collectively contribute to a resilient tourism recovery, ensuring that Jordan remains competitive in attracting European travelers seeking a blend of adventure, spirituality, and heritage in a safe and welcoming environment.
