The Economics of Tourism in Jordan: A statistical Study during the Period 1990-2011

Abstract

This study highlights the development in the Jordanian tourism sector, while pointing out the major changes in this sector and its impact on economic development during the period (1990-2011). The study revealed that the tourism market has become a vital and dynamic sector in Jordan and witnessed significant growth in both demand and supply sides. The study showed that the supply side response was compatible with the level of demand for tourism. Moreover, the study also concluded that the tourism industry makes a substantial contribution to the Jordanian economy. During the study period, it accounted for (11.2%) of the GDP, employment in the tourism cluster, including indirect employment was estimated at around (10%) of the work force. Finally, the contribution of the tourism sector alone in export earnings amounted to an average of (38%) of the total exports.