On Thursday the 31st of August, 2023, an exciting exhibition showcased the iHERITAGE - ICT Mediterranean platform for UNESCO cultural heritage - project, displaying holographic figures of Petra, Jordanian folklore, and museums.

The expo witnessed the pre-launch of the official website for the red-rose city, to be made available soon, and other tourist sites, in which visitors can indulge in an authentic tourism experience by watching a 3D movie.

The gathering and the website were created by the Jordan Society for Scientific Research, Entrepreneurship, and Creativity (JSSREC) and the Department of Antiquities (DoA), the Jordanian partners in the EU-funded iHERITAGE project.

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Makram Qeisi emphasized the ministry's dedication to collaborating with all parties to implement projects supporting and promoting Jordan's tourism at local, regional, and international levels.

In remarks given on behalf of Prof. Balawi, by the Financial and administrative assistant General Manager of DoA Mr. Ahmed Musa, he commended the iHERITAGE project for its efforts in promoting Jordan's archaeological and tourist sites, specifically Petra, by using digital technology, which greatly contributes to the attraction of visitors from all across the globe.

He added that Jordan's tourism industry currently offers 55,000 employment opportunities, contributing 13% of the gross domestic product, noting that there is a plan to increase this number and invest more in the sector as part of the country's economic modernization vision.

The JSSREC and the DoA are actively promoting iHERITAGE through various activities like showcasing products and digital platform created by iHERITAGE staff, according to JSSREC President Rida Shibli. The ultimate goal is to encourage international, regional, and Jordanian companies to explore the possibility of partnering up and establishing companies to further develop and leverage these products, he added.

Dr. Talal Akasheh, iHERITAGE project manager at JSSREC, then took the stage to provide in-depth insights into the project, offering a comprehensive overview of its progress and the intricate processes involved in bringing this innovative initiative to life.

All in all, the exhibition served as a hub for meaningful discussions on technology, iHERITAGE products, and investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs, specialists, and companies gathered to explore the immense potential of this groundbreaking initiative. As the event concluded, it was clear that iHERITAGE had not only showcased Jordan's cultural treasures but had also set the stage for a vibrant future in heritage tourism.