Did you know that Jordan’s hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing in the Middle East, with a projected annual growth rate of over 5%? In the heart of this thriving sector is the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), a pioneering institution driving excellence in culinary education.
Established in 2008, RACA has not only led the way in developing a skilled workforce, but also in empowering youth and fostering gender equality within the industry. As an EHL Certified School, RACA offers a range of programs, from Bachelor's degrees to vocational courses, focusing on academic excellence and hands-on training. Its comprehensive approach equips students with the practical skills and mindset necessary to meet the evolving demands of the hospitality sector, both locally and regionally.
Join us as we explore how RACA is shaping Jordan’s culinary future and leaving a significant mark on the country’s hospitality and culinary arts landscape.
Meet Chef Jacques Rossel
His passion for teaching mirrors RACA’s broader commitment to driving excellence in Jordan’s hospitality sector.
RACA has been a member of the EHL Network of Certified Schools since 2018 and achieved Certified status in 2022. This recognition underscores RACA's dedication to academic excellence and practical skill development, empowering students to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality.
Jordan’s Hospitality Industry: Growth and Opportunities
Jordan’s hospitality industry is a key driver of its economy, contributing $5.8 billion to the GDP in 2021, accounting for 19.3% of the country’s total economic output. As international tourism in Jordan continues to rebound post-pandemic—especially with destinations like Petra and Wadi Rum gaining popularity—the demand for skilled culinary professionals has surged.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector is projected to grow by 8.4% annually over the next decade.
The Evolution of Jordan’s Culinary Landscape
In recent years, Jordan’s culinary landscape has become increasingly international, driven by its growing tourism and expatriate population.
Furthermore, the rise of cloud kitchens has added a new dimension to the market, particularly in Amman, where online food delivery has seen exponential growth since the COVID-19 pandemic.
RACA plays a pivotal role in preparing its students for this evolving environment, with programs that blend traditional Jordanian cuisine with global culinary trends.
Bridging the Skills Gap: RACA’s Role in Reducing Youth Unemployment
One of the greatest challenges Jordan faces is its youth unemployment rate, which stood at 48.5% in 2021, among the highest in the region. RACA directly addresses this challenge by providing high-quality vocational training that increases employability in both Jordan and the broader Middle East.
In fact, graduates of RACA are in high demand, with many finding opportunities in neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, where rapid hospitality development is driving the need for skilled chefs and hospitality managers.
With the support of EHL Education Consulting experts, RACA’s curriculum—academically certified by the EHL Group through its prestigious certification scheme—ensures that graduates are equipped not only with technical skills but also with leadership and management qualities, positioning them to compete successfully in the international job market.
READ: Whom is Culinary College right for? By Chef Jacques Rossel
Empowering Women in Culinary Arts
RACA is also making strides in promoting gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated industry. According to the World Bank, only 14% of Jordanian women are active in the workforce, a statistic that RACA is working to improve within the hospitality sector. One of RACA’s notable success stories involves a young female graduate who, after a successful stint abroad, returned to Jordan to open her own restaurant.
By creating an inclusive environment and encouraging female participation, RACA is fostering culinary talent and addressing broader societal challenges related to gender inequality.
A Vision for the Future: RACA’s Long-Term Goals
Looking ahead, RACA aims to continue its leadership role in shaping Jordan’s culinary landscape. Chef Rossel envisions the academy playing a larger role in promoting vocational education, combating unemployment, and empowering women.
With Jordan’s tourism industry set to expand and the government prioritizing job creation in high-demand sectors, RACA is positioned to be a key player in the country’s economic future.
RACA’s journey over the past 15 years has been marked by excellence, innovation, and a commitment to empowering Jordan’s youth. As the country’s culinary landscape evolves, so too does RACA’s role in preparing the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals. Under Chef Jacques Rossel’s leadership, the academy remains dedicated to shaping a brighter future for Jordan’s hospitality industry—one where tradition meets innovation, and where passion meets opportunity.
