Aqaba, July 10 (Petra) -- The Aqaba Marine Reserve has achieved a series of scientific and field milestones that strengthen its position as a leading model for environmental management both locally and internationally, while continuing efforts to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Gulf of Aqaba, said the reserve's Director Nasser Zawaideh.

Speaking to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), Zawaideh noted that the reserve has launched a strategic partnership with the Transnational Red Sea Center to develop advanced coral reef monitoring tools. These include the use of AI-powered 3D imaging and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to enhance scientific understanding of the marine ecosystem.

His Majesty King Abdullah II presented the project at three consecutive UN Climate Change Conferences (COP26, COP27, COP28) as part of Jordan’s efforts to strengthen its global presence in protecting marine life and shared natural resources, especially oceans and seas. The project enjoys broad international support through a scientific advisory board that includes renowned global experts.

In a move that reflects Jordan’s strong commitment to marine conservation and sustainable development, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inspected progress on Thursday of the international Aqaba Marine Reserve center project, launched under Royal directives as a world-class model for protecting the Gulf of Aqaba’s unique coral reefs and as an advanced national initiative that combines environmental conservation, scientific research, and sustainable tourism.

The project serves as an integrated global example for safeguarding coral reefs that have demonstrated exceptional resilience to the impacts of climate change, making them among the world’s most stable reef systems.

Zawaideh said the reserve has begun the second phase of its coral restoration project by preparing new nurseries and creating three artificial reefs in collaboration with the UN Development Program. This will help rehabilitate coral reefs and support biodiversity.

He added that the visitor center and beach facilities have seen upgrades, including new gates, an accessibility walkway at Al-Azraq Beach, hall renovations, and expanding green spaces with 160 new palm trees planted at Palm Beach, boosting the reserve’s environmental and tourism appeal.

In line with sustainable fisheries management, the reserve has, for the third time, enforced a fishing ban during the breeding season of endemic fish species, from January 1 to April 30, 2025, under fishing regulations for the Gulf of Aqaba issued in 2020. Licensed fishermen have received financial compensation to ease economic impacts and balance conservation with community support.

Zawaideh said these accomplishments reaffirm the reserve’s commitment to sustainability and strengthen Aqaba’s position as a leading destination for sustainable eco-tourism in the region and beyond.

Located along the southern coast of the Jordanian side of the Gulf of Aqaba, the reserve stretches approximately seven kilometers from the southern border of the passenger port to the southern boundary of the Public Security Officers Club. Its land boundary extends 50 meters east from the high tide line, while the marine boundary extends about 350 meters west from the high tide line.

The reserve aims to gain global recognition by being added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Its mission is to protect the Gulf of Aqaba’s rich marine biodiversity and preserve the coastal marine environment on Aqaba’s southern shore, allowing certain uses within carefully managed, sustainable limits under a legislative framework that safeguards the marine ecosystem for the benefit of present and future generations.

The project includes three main components: the Aqaba natural marine reserve, covering seven kilometers and representing 27 percent of Jordan’s coastline, aimed at protecting marine biodiversity; a scientific and technological center that will serve as a leading regional platform for marine research and blue economy innovation; and a marine life exhibition offering visitors an interactive experience using virtual reality to promote environmental awareness and sustainable tourism.

Jordan is working to register the reserve on the UNESCO World Heritage List to highlight its unique natural heritage and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 14 (Life Below Water) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). It also supports the Kingdom’s commitment to the 30x30 initiative to protect 30 percent of oceans and seas by 2030.

The project is expected to create direct and indirect job opportunities, with a particular focus on engaging youth and women, making it an environmental, economic, and community catalyst at the national and regional levels.

//Petra// AO

10/07/2025 18:13:37