Aqaba: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Saturday celebrates the inscription of the Aqaba Marine Reserve on the UNESCO World Heritage List, following the formal adoption of the decision by the World Heritage Committee during its 48th session in Busan, Republic of Korea.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Committee inscribed the Reserve under natural World Heritage criteria (ix) and (x), recognizing its outstanding processes, exceptional marine biodiversity, and globally significant contribution to the conservation of threatened marine species and ecosystems.
A statement released by Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) describes the inscription as an "international recognition" of one of the northern Red Sea's most exceptional marine ecosystems. It highlights the growing global importance of climate-resilient coral reefs amidst unprecedented environmental pressures on marine environments worldwide.
This landmark achievement aligns with ongoing efforts directed by His Majesty King Abdullah II, supported by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, to safeguard Jordan's natural heritage and prioritize environmental sustainability. It is the result of years of collective efforts by the Government of Jordan, ASEZA, national institutions, scientists, local communities, and international development partners.
ASEZA Chief Commissioner Shadi Al Majali emphasized the significance of this milestone, remarking that the inscription is a source of immense honor for Jordan. It acknowledges the Kingdom's leadership in protecting a marine ecosystem of global importance. Guided by King Abdullah II's vision, Jordan accepts this recognition with pride and a renewed commitment to preserving the Reserve's Outstanding Universal Value for future generations.
The Aqaba Marine Reserve, located at the northernmost tip of the Red Sea, protects a unique mosaic of coral reefs, mesophotic reefs, and seagrass habitats. Its reefs are noted for their exceptional thermal resilience and are home to over 150 species of hard corals, 500 fish species, and approximately 1,000 species of molluscs, including numerous endemic and threatened species.
Al Majali stated that the World Heritage inscription marks the beginning of an enhanced commitment to protecting this globally significant site. He reaffirmed Jordan's commitment to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention and the implementation of the World Heritage Committee's recommendations.
Through ASEZA and its partners, Jordan plans to strengthen the Reserve's legal protection, management, scientific research, ecological monitoring, and visitor management, alongside community engagement. Future policy actions will focus on implementing the Second Aqaba Marine Reserve Integrated Management Plan (2027-2030) and enhancing long-term environmental monitoring to safeguard the site's Outstanding Universal Value.
Jordan welcomes the Committee's emphasis on regional cooperation and will continue collaborating with regional and international partners to strengthen conservation efforts in the Gulf of Aqaba and the wider Red Sea. Additionally, Jordan's government expresses sincere appreciation to the World Heritage Committee, UNESCO, and all partners who contributed to the nomination and evaluation process.
In dedication to its people and the international community, Jordan reaffirms that the Aqaba Marine Reserve is both a national treasure and a shared natural heritage of humanity.