Latest news with #AqabaSpecialEconomicZoneAuthority
Jordan News
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Jordan News
For the Third Consecutive Day… Aqaba Continues Celebrating Jordan's 79th Independence Day - Jordan News
Aqaba Governorate continued its vibrant celebrations for the third day in a row to mark the 79th Independence Day of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The festivities featured a spectacular maritime parade with fishing boats, glass-bottom boats, and luxury yachts led by naval forces and royal patrol vessels. The event was attended by Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Chief Commissioner Shadi Ramzi Al-Majali, Aqaba Governor Khaled Al-Hajaj, members of the ASEZA board, security officials, and community leaders. اضافة اعلان The marine parade kicked off at the Fishermen's Marina near the Great Arab Revolt Square. Small boats, large yachts, and tugboats participated in the festivities, adorned with Jordanian flags and photos of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II. The boats formed a stunning scene across the Gulf of Aqaba, with nearly 200 vessels carrying citizens eager to join in the celebration and express their pride in this cherished national occasion. Over the past two days, Aqaba has hosted numerous events, all launched from the Great Arab Revolt Square under the patronage of Shadi Ramzi Al-Majali and in the presence of Governor Khaled Al-Hajaj, officials, and large public participation. The celebration program included the opening of a bazaar showcasing handmade crafts and local products, children's entertainment zones, a folkloric performance by Al-Rajaf Troupe, and patriotic songs performed by Jordanian artists Saad Abu Tayeh and Diana Karazon, all reflecting national pride, loyalty, and belonging. These festivities are part of a series of nationwide events commemorating Jordan's 79th Independence Day, celebrating the nation's achievements under the wise Hashemite leadership. Ayla Joins the Independence Festivities Elsewhere in Aqaba, Ayla joined in celebrating the 79th Independence Day, showcasing national pride through a vibrant blend of heritage, art, and patriotism. The destination transformed into a visual tribute to Jordan, with public spaces, beaches, and markets adorned with fluttering national flags and banners. The Jordanian flag was prominently raised at the entrance of the commercial district, and the Green Taxi Parade decorated with flags toured the city streets alongside a vehicle carnival featuring patriotic slogans and national music. Evening festivities began at 6 PM in the Great Arab Revolt Square and concluded at 11 PM with a spectacular fireworks show launched from the sea. Ayla also launched a special initiative under the patronage of the Aqaba Governorate to distribute standardized Jordanian flags on poles to all government institutions in the city, reinforcing a spirit of unity and collaboration among entities within the Aqaba Special Economic Zone. On this occasion, Governor Khaled Al-Hajaj stated: 'We take great pride in celebrating Independence Day here in Ayla and throughout Aqaba, where we express our unwavering loyalty to our beloved nation, its people, and its Hashemite leadership. Through this national initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to our flag and to Jordan's continued progress under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein.' Ayla's Director of Public and Governmental Relations, Mansour Al-Kabariti, added: 'Our participation in Ayla's Independence Day festivities reflects our deep engagement in national events that foster belonging and pride in our country and leadership. We believe our role as a Jordanian institution goes beyond tourism and economic development to include reinforcing national values and showcasing Aqaba as a cultural and touristic gem.' He continued: 'Celebrating Independence Day is an integral part of Ayla's annual plan, reflecting our ongoing pride in Jordan's journey and the values of achievement and determination that have long defined our great nation under the Hashemite rule.' The daily celebration program also featured live performances by the Jordanian Armed Forces band, who played patriotic melodies, while Ayla staff dressed in traditional Jordanian attire distributed sweets to guests, adding an authentic cultural touch. The festivities extended to Ayla's beaches, where Jordanian flags were artistically displayed alongside intricate designs inspired by Jordan's rich history—creating a breathtaking visual that captivated visitors. In the midst of the joyful celebration, guests expressed admiration for Ayla's creative and heartfelt tribute to Jordan's independence, highlighting the beautiful blend of tradition and modernity.
Jordan News
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Jordan News
Al-Majali Sworn In Before Prime Minister - Jordan News
Al-Majali Sworn In Before Prime Minister Shadi Al-Majali, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, was sworn in before Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan on Tuesday, following the Royal Decree endorsing the Cabinet's decision to appoint him. اضافة اعلان The swearing-in ceremony was conducted in accordance with Article 13 of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Law No. (32) of 2000. The ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Prime Ministry Affairs Abdullah Al-Adwan and Secretary General of the Prime Ministry Abdul Latif Al-Najdawi. —(Petra)
Jordan News
20-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan News
Gov't Unveils Plan to Transform Aqaba into World-Class Living and Investment Destination - Jordan News
Gov't Unveils Plan to Transform Aqaba into World-Class Living and Investment Destination The Cabinet has approved a comprehensive package of incentives aimed at transforming Aqaba into a premier global destination for tourism, investment, and long-term residency. اضافة اعلان The initiative seeks to attract investors, retirees, and professionals from Jordan and abroad particularly from neighboring Arab countries by enhancing the city's appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. The move aligns with Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision and Aqaba's integrated urban master plan, positioning the city to become one of the top 100 global destinations for real estate and quality of life. The decision was made during Sunday's Cabinet session, chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. Under the new framework, a range of benefits will be introduced, including customs exemptions and long-term residency incentives for foreign nationals. Notably, for the first time, the plan also extends housing incentives to Jordanians purchasing homes within gated residential communities. Buyers who purchase residential property directly from a developer for a minimum of JD 150,000 will be eligible to temporarily import one small vehicle, with annual renewals permitted. The customs exemption on the vehicle must not exceed 25% of the property's value. For purchases of JD 300,000 or more, owners will have the option to import either one or two small vehicles under the same terms, provided the combined exemption does not exceed 25% of the property's value. The package also waives the 5% customs duty and 16% sales tax on the import of personal boats. Each individual will be permitted a one-time exemption for a single boat, strictly for personal, non-commercial use. Any resale or transfer of ownership will require prior notification to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority and clearance of the vessel's customs status. Additionally, non-Jordanian retirees with valid residence permits and sufficient financial means will be allowed to import one vehicle on a temporary basis upon purchasing residential property in Aqaba, with no minimum value required for the property. Foreign property owners will also benefit from a one-time exemption on customs and duties for importing household furnishings. Those who purchase property valued at JD 150,000 or more will be granted extended residency permits covering both themselves and their dependents. Aqaba currently offers around 1,100 residential units within gated communities including apartments, villas, and chalets with an additional 1,200 units set to break ground in the coming months.
Jordan News
21-04-2025
- Jordan News
Jordan's Ministry of Tourism and Aqaba Authority Organize Field Visit for Dr. Zahi Hawass in Aqaba - Jordan News
During his visit to the Jordanian city of Aqaba, renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass praised the level of archaeological and restoration work in the Kingdom, emphasizing that Jordan possesses a rich and diverse cultural heritage stretching from the Islamic eras to even earlier periods, comparable in significance to the world's most prominent archaeological sites. اضافة اعلان The visit was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in collaboration with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, and included the participation of Her Excellency Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab and His Excellency Nayef Al-Fayez, Chairman of the Aqaba Authority. The visit included a field tour of several key archaeological sites in Aqaba, such as the Byzantine Church, Aqaba Fortress, and the Islamic city of Ayla. Following the tour, a press conference was held at the site of Islamic Ayla, during which Dr. Hawass expressed great admiration for the restoration work carried out at the Byzantine Church, the fortress, and Ayla, describing them as exemplary models in the field of heritage preservation. He emphasized that Jordan, despite being an Islamic country, sets a unique example in respecting and preserving Christian and broader human heritage, evident in its restoration efforts and the passion of young Jordanians working in the archaeological sector. Dr. Hawass also described Jordan's Regional Center for Conservation and Restoration as one of the best in the Arab world, pointing out that training young Jordanian professionals represents a genuine investment in the future of heritage. Regarding the recent discovery of a hieroglyphic inscription in Wadi Rum, Hawass called it an 'unprecedented event' that highlights the deep historical connection between ancient Egypt and surrounding regions, and opens new doors for future research and collaboration between Egypt and Jordan. He expressed his joy at Jordan's focus on archaeology alongside tourism, stressing that attention to cultural heritage is key to attracting cultural tourism. Dr. Hawass concluded by saying: 'What I have seen in Jordan in terms of restorations and discoveries is a monumental cultural achievement. It sends a clear message that the Kingdom values its heritage and gives it the status it deserves.' He also expressed his desire to return for future joint excavations. Minister Lina Annab highlighted the special significance of the visit coinciding with World Heritage Day, emphasizing Jordan's message in safeguarding cultural heritage and national identity. She noted that Jordan is not merely a crossroads of civilizations, but a true homeland of civilizations, possessing the diversity and history that qualifies it as a global tourist destination. Annab emphasized that the restoration work witnessed—carried out by Jordanian hands—is a source of pride, reflecting the development of local skills in heritage preservation. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Hawass, who stated: 'Restoration is the backbone of preserving civilizations; without it, landmarks vanish and identities are lost.' The Minister also referred to a memorandum of understanding signed between the Department of Antiquities and the Zahi Hawass Foundation, aimed at expanding cooperation in excavation, restoration, and knowledge exchange. She reaffirmed that the visit's alignment with World Heritage Day adds symbolic weight to Jordan's heritage preservation message. For his part, His Excellency Nayef Al-Fayez praised Dr. Hawass's visit, considering it a spotlight on Aqaba's unique historical and cultural legacy, which strengthens its position as an integrated tourism destination combining sea, nature, and history. The visit underscored Aqaba's importance as a promising hub for cultural tourism and showcased Jordan's ongoing efforts in heritage protection and site development, enhancing the Kingdom's global tourism standing. Al-Fayez reaffirmed that Aqaba possesses all the elements of a comprehensive tourist destination that blends history, sea, and nature. He noted that hosting an international figure like Dr. Zahi Hawass helps highlight the city's cultural legacy and boosts its competitiveness as a prime destination for cultural, environmental, and leisure tourism.
Zawya
11-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: ASEZA approves new identity to reinforce Aqaba's global tourism, investment position
AMMAN — The Board of Commissioners of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) has approved the adoption of a new brand identity for the port city, to be officially launched in the coming months. The decision followed several consultative meetings with stakeholders from all sectors in Aqaba, including members of the local community, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported on Thursday. The new identity is seen as a 'strategic' move to reinforce Aqaba's position as a leading global destination for tourism and investment. It also reflects the city's ambitions to become a fully integrated investment and tourism hub, in line with the Royal vision and ASEZA's broader strategic framework. To support investment and economic development, the board also approved the lease of 300 dunums of land to a specialised mining investment company on the condition that it establishes a manufacturing facility in Aqaba. The initiative is part of ASEZA's strategy to attract and incentivise investment by providing support and benefits to projects that create employment opportunities for local youth and promote local industry. In urban development and public services fields, the board approved the allocation of land for the construction of a waste landfill in the Qweirah district. The site is adjacent to the existing landfill used by the Joint Services Council and the Qweirah Municipality. The move aims to prevent indiscriminate dumping and improve the quality of life in the district. To address animal welfare and public safety, the board agreed to support an animal welfare organisation tasked with managing the growing population of stray dogs in Aqaba. The initiative includes providing facilities and resources to safely trap and care for stray animals, keeping them away from residential areas and public spaces. As part of its commitment to youth empowerment, innovation and community development, ASEZA also approved the sponsorship of a young entrepreneur from Aqaba to participate in the 2025 Jordan International Rally. This will be the first local participation of its kind in an international motorsport event.
