The 11th Annual Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress is set to bring global attention to one of the Middle East’s most stunning coastal cities: Aqaba, Jordan. From October 7 to 9, 2025, the city will welcome over 400 industry leaders and professionals from more than 70 countries, showcasing Jordan as a premier luxury wedding destination. The event is co-hosted by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), and organized by QNA International, marking a major milestone in Jordan’s growing presence in the global wedding industry.
Aqaba’s Rising Appeal as a Wedding Destination
Aqaba, known for its stunning Red Sea coastline and unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is rapidly becoming a sought-after location for destination weddings. The DWP Congress will position Aqaba on the international stage as a prime destination for luxury weddings, providing attendees with a firsthand experience of its rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and renowned Jordanian hospitality.
Chief Commissioner of ASEZA, Nayef Al-Fayez, expressed his excitement about hosting this prestigious event, saying “We are honored to welcome the DWP Congress to Jordan, specifically Aqaba. This significant event will bring together leading global industry professionals, highlighting Aqaba’s potential as a premier wedding destination. It’s an exceptional opportunity to showcase Aqaba’s rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and renowned hospitality, positioning Jordan as a top-tier location for luxury weddings and events globally.”
With its tranquil beaches, breathtaking views, and luxury hotels, Aqaba is perfectly equipped to cater to high-end weddings. The congress aims to spotlight Aqaba’s hospitality industry, positioning it as an ideal setting for those looking to create unforgettable wedding experiences. From beachfront ceremonies to extravagant receptions, Aqaba’s unique offerings are sure to captivate wedding planners and couples alike.
The Role of ASEZA and the Jordan Tourism Board in Boosting Wedding Tourism
Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, highlighted the importance of the congress for Jordan’s wedding tourism sector, which commands a significant share of global spending and is witnessing strong growth. He said: “Hosting such a conference in Jordan underscores the global importance of our country, thanks to its rich, deep-rooted, and diverse culture. Jordan also enjoys stunning natural diversity, providing visitors with a unique and unparalleled experience. What further enriches this experience, especially in the wedding planning sector, is the human element, for which Jordan is particularly renowned.”
The congress will give Jordan the platform it needs to showcase its diverse wedding venues, ranging from the serene shores of the Dead Sea to the romantic, ancient city of Petra, and the otherworldly desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Each of these locations offers unique backdrops for weddings, ensuring that Jordan can cater to couples looking for either grandiose or intimate wedding settings.
Economic Impact and Growth of the Global Wedding Market
According to the International Research Group, the global wedding industry was valued at $30.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a staggering $253.3 billion by 2032, with an annual growth rate of 26.44%. This boom is largely fueled by the increasing popularity of destination weddings, where couples opt for unique, exotic locations to celebrate their special day. Jordan, with its rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes, is poised to capture a significant share of this expanding market.
By hosting the 11th Annual DWP Congress, Jordan is not only elevating its profile as a premier wedding destination but also setting the stage for future growth in its wedding tourism sector. The congress will bring together luxury wedding planners, designers, and suppliers, from bridal couture designers to photographers and tourism boards, further boosting the local economy.
Aqaba’s New Infrastructure: A Boost for MICE and Wedding Tourism
Deputy Chief Commissioner/Commissioner for Economic Development & Tourism at ASEZA, Hamza Haj Hasan, said: “Hosting the 11th Annual DWP Congress in Aqaba aligns with our goal of making the city a premier MICE destination. This event underscores our commitment to elevating Aqaba’s global profile in the meetings, events, and wedding industry. Additionally, the Aqaba International Exhibition Center, opening in September, will mark a major advancement in our capability to host exhibitions and conferences.”
The new exhibition centre, combined with the city’s world-class hotels and amenities, will make Aqaba a competitive destination not only for weddings but also for international conferences and events. This will further enhance Jordan’s reputation in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, attracting a broader range of high-profile events and business travellers to the region.
DWP Congress: A Global Hub for Luxury Wedding Professionals
The DWP Congress is the world’s largest and most influential B2B platform for destination weddings. In its previous editions, it has consistently attracted over 400 participants from more than 70 countries, offering unparalleled networking opportunities for those in the wedding industry. This year, attendees can expect a mix of inspiring keynote speeches, informative panel discussions, and interactive workshops aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the world of luxury wedding planning.
General Manager of QNA International, the event organizer, Akash Jain, said: “Over the past decade, we have built valuable business relationships and celebrated achievements within the wedding industry. As we enter the 11th year of the DWP Congress, we are committed to delivering an unforgettable experience. Aqaba’s selection as our next host destination will surpass expectations, allowing global wedding professionals to experience the grandeur and elegance of Jordanian weddings.”
The congress is not just about showcasing locations; it is also about fostering innovation and excellence within the wedding industry. Attendees will have the chance to engage with luxury hotels, bridal designers, florists, and other top-tier suppliers, providing them with the tools and inspiration they need to create extraordinary wedding experiences.
Conclusion: Jordan as a Premier Destination Wedding Hub
The 11th Annual DWP Congress promises to be a transformative event for Jordan’s wedding tourism industry. With its unique blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure, Aqaba is set to become a prime location for luxury destination weddings. The event will serve as a platform for global wedding professionals to witness firsthand the allure of Jordan, helping the country secure a more prominent position in the international wedding market.
Jordan’s offering of diverse wedding venues—whether it’s the serene beaches of Aqaba, the mystical deserts of Wadi Rum, or the historical grandeur of Petra—makes it a destination like no other. With the continued efforts of ASEZA and the Jordan Tourism Board and the spotlight provided by the DWP Congress, the future of Jordan’s wedding industry looks brighter than ever.
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