Aqaba marine reserve
Introduction:
The Aqaba Marine Reserve is one of the prominent natural treasures in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, recognized as the first marine reserve in the country. Stretching over 7 kilometers along the southern coastline of Aqaba, it is distinguished by its exceptional biodiversity and unique marine ecosystems, establishing it as a leading global destination for sustainable ecotourism. The reserve was established by the direct royal directives of His Majesty King Abdullah II, and is managed by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) - Commissioner of Environment and Public Safety.
About the Reserve:
• Establishment Date: Officially declared as Jordan's first marine reserve on December 8, 2020, following its initial protection as a "marine park" model since 1997.
• Location: On the southern coast of the Gulf of Aqaba.
• Area: Extends over a length of 7 km, with a width of 50 meters on the landward side and 350 meters on the seaward side.
• Vision: To be a leading global model for sustainable ecotourism and the preservation of natural heritage.
• Organizational Structure: The reserve operates under the Commissioner of Environment and Public Safety within ASEZA and comprises specialized departments (Research, Community Outreach, Services, Marine Operations).
IUCN Classification:
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classification, the Aqaba Marine Reserve is categorized under Category VI (6), as a "Protected Area with Sustainable Use of Natural Resources." This classification reflects the reserve's commitment to conserving natural resources while allowing for sustainable use, such as ecotourism and recreational activities.
In 2025, the reserve was included in the IUCN Green List, a global certification granted to protected areas that meet rigorous standards in environmental management, governance, and ecological sustainability.
What Makes the Aqaba Marine Reserve Unique?
• Exceptional Biodiversity: Home to more than 157 species of hard corals and 512 species of colorful fish. It also hosts 3 main species of seagrass that form vital natural habitats, and other marine life including sea turtles (such as the Hawksbill and Green Turtle), mollusks, crustaceans, and 18 genera of benthic algae. The reserve contributes to protecting endangered species and restoring the ecological balance in the Gulf of Aqaba through its marine conservation programs.
• Climate Resilience: Its coral reefs possess a unique ability to tolerate high water temperatures, making them a natural laboratory for studying climate change.
• Unique Geographical Location: It is situated at the northernmost limit of coral reef distribution in the world.
• World-Class Diving Destination: Its crystal-clear waters (with visibility up to 100m) and diverse dive sites (over 30 sites) make it a prime destination for divers and researchers from around the globe.
Boundaries and Surveillance:
To ensure effective protection, the reserve's boundaries have been precisely defined according to the Aqaba Marine Reserve system issued by ASEZA:
• Land Boundaries: The reserve extends along the coastline from the southern boundary of the Passenger Port in the north, to the southern boundary of the Royal Diving Club in the south. These boundaries encompass the four beaches (Coral, Yamaninya, Blue, Palm) and extend 50 meters east from the shoreline, covering buffer zones and tourist facilities for visitors.
• Marine Boundaries: The reserve extends westward to a distance of 350 meters from the shoreline, including the seabed vertically, covering coral reef habitats, seagrass beds, and diverse marine life. Specific zones within these boundaries are allocated for tourist activities like diving, snorkeling, and boat mooring, with strict controls to prevent harmful activities such as illegal fishing, which is strictly prohibited in all its forms within the reserve's boundaries, and pollution.
These boundaries are subject to a continuous monitoring system through land and sea patrols supported by modern technology and smart cameras that monitor all activities in the reserve to ensure compliance with environmental legislation and protect biodiversity. These boundaries aim to promote sustainable ecotourism and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
The Four Beaches of the Reserve:
Discover diverse experiences suitable for all visitors:
1. Coral Beach: The most famous for its dense coral reefs, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
2. Yamaninya Beach: Combines rich biodiversity with the Military Diving Museum - the first military underwater museum in the region.
3. The Blue Beach: Holds the Blue Flag certification for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, 2025), a testament to its pure waters and cleanliness.
4. Palm Beach: Offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for family relaxation and camping.
Note: Entry to all the reserve's beaches is free of charge.
Our Achievements & Aspirations:
International Environmental Awards and Certifications:
• Blue Flag: The Blue Beach at the reserve's visitor center received the international Blue Flag environmental certification from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in 2023, 2024, and 2025, in recognition of its water quality, cleanliness, and commitment to safety and sustainability standards.
• IUCN Green List: The reserve was included in this list in 2025 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, confirming its commitment to global environmental standards.
• "Top 100 Green Destinations Stories" Award: Awarded to the Shipwreck dive site, one of the most prominent diving sites within the reserve.
Future Aspirations:
• UNESCO Ambition: The reserve seeks inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List to enhance its global status, with its nomination file technically accepted in the first stage during 2025.
Our Programs & Initiatives :
The reserve manages a comprehensive set of programs through its specialized departments:
1. Community Awareness and Guidance
The reserve places great importance on raising awareness among the local community and visitors about the importance of preserving the marine environment through:
• Interactive workshops at the visitor center for students, families, and tourists.
• Volunteer campaigns, such as beach clean-ups.
• Educational programs for schools, universities, and various community groups.
• Cultural and environmental events and seasonal festivals.
• Digital awareness campaigns via social media platforms (X, Instagram, Facebook).
2. Marine Operations
The reserve conducts continuous marine operations to ensure ecosystem protection, including:
• Marine surveillance patrols to prevent illegal fishing and pollution.
• Coral reef rehabilitation and replanting programs.
• Marine waste management and regular seafloor clean-ups.
• Monitoring of marine species using advanced techniques like underwater imaging.
• Providing marine facilities and services (mooring buoys, swimming areas).
3. Services and Beach Protection
The reserve provides advanced services for visitors while ensuring beach protection:
• Infrastructure: Beach umbrellas, sanitary facilities, parking, children's playgrounds, camping areas.
• Cleanliness: Dedicated teams for daily beach cleaning and recycling bins.
• Shoreline Environment Protection: Preventing harmful activities like lighting fires or littering, with fines for violators.
• Beach beautification and planting of various trees, notably palm trees.
4. Marine Research and Studies
The reserve serves as a scientific research hub, hosting studies aimed at enhancing marine conservation:
• Biodiversity monitoring using genetic analysis and 3D scanning.
• Research on the impact of rising sea temperatures on coral reefs.
• Scientific partnerships with organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Ecotourism Activities:
• Diving: Explore over 30 dive sites for all levels, located within the reserve's boundaries through registered diving centers in Aqaba.
• Snorkeling: A wonderful experience to observe the enchanting underwater world.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Ideal for families to explore marine life without getting wet, operated by licensed boats in Aqaba.
• Camping: Enjoy stargazing in designated, safe areas within the marine reserve.
Your Role in Protection…..
We invite you to join us in protecting this national treasure by adhering to the reserve's regulations:
• Do not collect or break marine organisms.
• Do not step or stand on coral reefs.
• Do not fish in any form.
• Do not light fires on the beach.
• Use the designated waste containers.
Conclusion:
The Aqaba Marine Reserve is not merely a natural protected area; it is a comprehensive experience that combines recreation, education, and environmental conservation. It is a shining model of sustainable development in the heart of Jordan, and we are proud to present it to you as a natural heritage we preserve together for future generations.
Contact & Inquiries:
• Email: info-amr@aseza.jo
• Social Media Platforms:
• X (Twitter): AqabaReserve
• Instagram: reserveaqaba
• Facebook: Aqaba.MR
We welcome you to the Aqaba Marine Reserve, where every visit is a step in the journey of preserving our environment.
To view the reserve map, click here.