Jordan Baptism site tourism revenues down by 30 percent

AMMAN, Jordan – Tourism revenues from the Baptism site in 2011 declined by 30 percent compared to last year standing at JD1.1 million, according to Director General of the Baptism Commission Dia’ Madani.

Madani attributed the drop in revenues to the current situation in the region, adding the impact of this decline was not felt due to an amendment to services fees.

“Despite the current developments in the region, this year witnessed the arrival of pilgrims from Italy through regular flights, he added.

Madani said that pilgrims from Russia will start visiting the site as of early 2012 as Russia has completed the construction of an Orthodox church and a guest house at a total cost of JD40 million.

Pilgrims from the US topped the list of tourists visiting the site followed by tourists from Europe, Russia and Arab countries.