Jordanian tourism ministry has signed an agreement with Pharaon Commercial Investment Group to build a $50m tourism village near the ancient city of Petra, the Jordan Times has reported. The project will include a 100-bed five-star hotel, a multipurpose conference hall, a shopping area including a handicrafts market, restaurants, a spa and swimming pools. Additionally, a centre will be built under the project to offer training to local residents in hospitality skills, the ministry has said. Work on the project will start before the end of the year, and is scheduled for completion within 30 months.