Group RCI signs agreement to globally promote Jordan's premier religious tourist destination

Developed by the Abu-Dhabi owned Global Management Group and located only 15 kilometres from the Dead Sea and half an hour's drive from the capital Amman, the Levant Heritage Resort is aiming to become the Kingdom's leading destination for religious tourists.

Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Group RCI stated:

"As innovators in the timeshare industry, our new affiliation with Levant Heritage Resort not only adds a world-class resort to our global collection of nearly 4,000 upscale properties, but it also allows us to offer our members the chance to create a once in a lifetime experiential travel experience. This new affiliation is in line with our plan to continually try and add resorts that excite and engage our members with sought after vacation options in the most desirable locations."

Situated near to a number of prominent sites from the Holy Bible, the Levant Heritage Resort will include a 300 room resort and spa, with 75 units allocated to a timeshare programme. Residents and guests will also be able to enjoy the resort's various restaurants and leisure facilities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Arshad Hussain, RCI Business Development Director, commented on the potential that exists for faith tourism in the region: "The promotion of Jordan's rich and varied history has proven to be a huge draw for travellers looking for a richer, more spiritual experience. The Levant Heritage Resort
will help fill a niche in the market whereby visitors who want to enjoy the facilities of a five star resort can now do so whilst being situated next to some of the world's most important religious sites.

Jordan's tourism revenues reached JD1.03bn ($1.45bn) in 2007 and the country is targeting revenues of JD1.3 to 1.7bn ($1.83 to $2.4bn) in 2010.

The location of the tombs and shrines of companions of the Prophet Muhammad have proved popular with Muslim tourists who have begun to explore Jordan's historical treasures. Partly as a result of the country's expanding religious tourism sector, Jordan's tourism revenues reached JD 1.03bn ($1.45bn) in 2007, and the country is targeting revenues of JD1.3 to 1.7bn ($1.83 to $2.4bn) in 2010.

"Jordan is truly the Holy Land, and is the one country in the region to offer a one-stop location that can meet the needs of faith-based travellers. We're delighted to conclude this agreement with Group RCI to showcase the uniqueness of the Levant Heritage Resort across the globe,"

commented Abdul Aziz Al-Laham, general manager, Levant Heritage Resort.