Today, Tuesday, April 5, 2022, the School organized a panel discussion titled "The Future of Tourism in Coexistence with COVID-19" at the Petra Auditorium. The session was initiated and organized by the outstanding students of the School.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Sharida was invited to discuss tourism and its future in coexistence with COVID-19, and he was joined by Dr. Ismail Abu Aamoud from the Department of Tourism Management at the University of Jordan to engage in dialogue and manage the panel discussion, resulting in several recommendations.
The session, moderated by student Renad Mashhoor Al-Bakkar, was attended by the Deputy Dean Dr. Adnan Al-Shayeb, the Head of the Department of Tourism Management, Dr. Hussein Ibrahim, the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and Quality, Dr. Muna Sleihat, the Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs, Ms. Lubna Higawi, and the Quality and Development Liaison Officer.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Sharida focused his talk on the positive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the environment and climate, which had a tangible impact on various aspects. The sharp reduction in individual travel and social and commercial activities led to a decrease in air pollution levels in many areas. This prompts us to say that COVID-19: a deadly pandemic with positive effects that were not anticipated! He also emphasized the responsibility of all parties towards the environment and tourism.
On the other hand, Dr. Ismail Abu Aamoud discussed the future of tourism in the face of current challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the need to create more inclusive and resilient tourism activities by leveraging the renewed interest in sustainability - which is crucial in the long run - by focusing on the pillars and principles of sustainability (economic, social, and environmental). Dr. Abu Aamoud also highlighted the role of digital technology and the significant impact of technologies such as virtual reality in attracting tourist interest.