Jabal Ajloun Master Plan

In 2007, His Majesty King Abdullah II detailed a vision for the Northern Highlands of Jordan as an area of “exceptional natural and touristic character” in which opportunities for investment emerge within an agenda of economic development, enhancing of livelihoods, and the sustainable use of natural and cultural resources. Consultants from OHK translated this vision into a concrete master plan and roadmap for the 1,000 square kilometer Jabal Ajloun region.

To refine the economic program, we developed an innovative “flow map” of visitation in the Ajloun region. The resulting data set, previously unknown in Jordan, supported an economic strategy that integrated spatial linkages across the landscape with value chain tourism and hospitality products. To ensure sustainability, the team generated a master plan covering the entire 1,000 square kilometer area, including detailed development programs and guidelines ensuring sustainable development that is economically viable, attractive to investment, and sensitive to the unique ecological and cultural assets. This was accompanied by a community development plan that examined the conditions and economic development needs of more than 60 villages supported by special area development plans for 9 key villages.