Jordan is absolutely buzzing, and they’re pulling out all the stops for 2025. Ancient ruins, as magnificent as they are, are just the beginning of an epic Jordanian experience. Now, we can also look forward a calendar jam-packed with electrifying music, captivating films, mouth-watering food festivals, and dazzling artistic performances. Trust us, it’s designed to bring in a huge global audience, and you and your clients will be clamouring for a piece of it!
Why Jordan is your next hot ticket
Forget your usual run-of-the-mill holiday options. Jordan’s calendar for the rest of this year goes way beyond traditional tourism, transforming the kingdom into a vibrant hub of creative and cultural expression. From mesmerising concerts under ancient skies to festivals celebrating the region’s rich history and incredible culinary legacy, your clients are in for an absolute treat.
“The extraordinary lineup is an open invitation to experience Jordan’s soul. In venues where our rich history lives and breathes, under skies that have witnessed the rise and fall of empires, contemporary artists will find their perfect stage.” – Dr Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board
Feast, film & famous faces
Ready to tempt those taste buds? The Jordan International Food Festival, from 6 to 11 August, promises a glorious celebration of Levantine and international flavours. And while they’re feasting, music lovers can catch Egyptian pop sensation Ahmed Saad performing on 7 August, mixing modern pop with traditional Arabic vibes.
But the music doesn’t stop there! In a massive first for Jordan, the iconic Sami Yusuf will be gracing the stage later in the year. He’ll be joined by other acclaimed regional superstars like Amr Diab and Kadim Al Sahir, ensuring there’s a huge dose of musical diversity and serious star power across the kingdom. These aren’t just any gigs, either – they’re set to be held in truly iconic locations, from the buzzing streets of Amman to the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea. Imagine the photos your clients will be sharing!
Then there’s the Amman International Film Festival running from 2 to 10 July, that will shine a spotlight on films from across the Arab world. It’s a key platform for emerging filmmakers and creative storytellers, offering a more nuanced, cultural experience for discerning travellers.
The nationwide Jordan Summer Festival 2025
Adding to the excitement, the Jordan Summer Festival 2025, freshly launched by the Ministry of Culture, is already in full swing! This nationwide extravaganza is running every Friday until the end of August, alternating weekly across the northern, central, and southern governorates. What can you and your clients look forward to?
- Children’s entertainment (think games and face painting!)
- Local bazaars brimming with unique crafts and handmade products
- Folkloric and musical performances by incredible national and popular bands
Some initial highlights from across the governorates show just how vibrant this festival is:
- Madaba: Kicked off with fanfare, offering everything from face painting and children’s entertainment to bazaars and lively performances by the Chechen and Al-Sakhra folklore groups, plus a concert by singer Zahida Zaki.
- Tafila: Featured a diverse mix of cultural, artistic, and musical programmes, folk performances, delicious local food stalls, and craft exhibitions.
- Karak: Emphasised its family-friendly vibe with children’s games, folk bazaars, DJ segments, and a patriotic performance by singer Ayham Al-Bashtawi.
- Ma’an: Packed with traditional markets, children’s entertainment, and a fantastic folkloric show by Aqaba Folk Arts Troupe, drawing large, enthusiastic crowds.
Historic venues meet modern merriment
One of the highlights of the season is the Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts, from 23 July to 2 August. Visitors can look forward to performances set against the breathtaking backdrop of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash, in 2000+ year old historical amphitheatres.
Got families or younger audiences? They’re covered too! The Pluma Circus offers a performance focused on empowerment and self-discovery, with a story told through vibrant theatrical elements. And for a dose of sharp wit and belly laughs, the hugely popular puppet character Abla Fahita is scheduled to perform on 19 July, promising an evening of irreverent humour and satire.
A Kingdom-wide celebration
The festivities kick off early, with opera enthusiasts in for a special treat on 9 July – a performance by the celebrated mezzo-soprano Farrah El Dibany. Her powerful vocals and classical finesse will add a sophisticated touch to the musical calendar.
Later in the month, the Echoes of Heritage festival on 25 July at Kerak Castle, part of the Friends of Jordan initiative, will really ramp up the celebration of local culture. August, dedicated to youth, will feature performances by Hiba Tawaji and Oussama Rahbani on 30 August in Abdali.
Among the most anticipated performances, Iraqi singer Kadim Al Sahir, affectionately known as The Caesar, performs on 14 August, followed by a joint concert featuring Wael Kfoury and Abeer Nehme.
Rounding off the year
The musical celebrations continue into September with a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Umm Kalthoum by singer May Farouq at Amman’s Roman Theatre on 20 September. And Amr Diab is scheduled to perform in Aqaba, further enhancing the country’s coastal entertainment offering with a real party atmosphere.
October’s major highlight is the Sami Yusuf concert, a date to circle for many. Plus, for those fitness fanatics, sporting events add another dimension: the Bromine Amman Marathon is set for 17 October. And to round out the year, the Ayla Red Sea Marathon will be held in December, perfectly blending sports tourism with Jordan’s stunning scenic vistas.
“2025 is the year of growth for Jordan Tourism and we are open to the world to come and experience exception. The tourism industry has put together unique cultural, artistic and immersive experiences to ensure each tourist enjoys their journey here.” – Dr Arabiyat
