Aqaba, 3 February 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jordan, in collaboration with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), has launched the Enhancing Biodiversity and Resilience in Aqaba's Coastal Ecosystem (EmBRACE) Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada. The launch event, held under the patronage of His Excellency Nayef Hameidi Al-Fayez, Chief Commissioner of ASEZA, brought together partners, stakeholders, and local community members to mark the beginning of this critical initiative.

The EmBRACE Project aims to enhance biodiversity and resilience in Aqaba’s coastal ecosystem by implementing nature-based solutions to protect and restore terrestrial and marine environments. This includes planting over 200 units of artificial coral reefs at selected sites at depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters, as well as restoring and planting 1,000 native species around rock dams and coastal wadis. The project focuses on strengthening biodiversity resilience by mitigating the impact of human activities and climate change on Aqaba’s coastline. Additionally, it seeks to enhance eco-tourism by promoting sustainable tourism models that prioritize biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration.

During the launch event, Dr. Aiman Suleiman, Commissioner for Environment and Protected Areas, representing His Excellency the Chief Commissioner of ASEZA, highlighted that the EmBRACE Project is a key component of ASEZA’s 2024-2028 strategy under its sustainable growth pillar. He emphasized that the project builds on ASEZA’s efforts, including the establishment of the Aqaba Marine Reserve (AMR) and ongoing work to secure its listing on global protection frameworks, such as the IUCN Green List and UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

The project adopts a comprehensive approach to marine habitat restoration, including the deployment of artificial coral reefs at ecologically strategic sites, based on environmental and scientific assessments. It also involves the establishment of coral nurseries, utilizing coral fragments recovered from natural or human-induced incidents and marine debris for replanting.

On land, EmBRACE will support the restoration of terrestrial habitats by introducing native and indigenous plant species around rock dams, which are designed to mitigate flash floods, conserve water, and promote biodiversity. The project further emphasizes community engagement and capacity building, ensuring active participation from women, youth, academia, and non-governmental organizations in biodiversity monitoring and restoration efforts.

Speaking on behalf of Global Affairs Canada, Ms. Caitlin Hindman, First Secretary at the Canadian Embassy, underscored the project’s significance in strengthening biodiversity conservation, improving data collection, and implementing nature-based solutions to enhance the resilience of Aqaba’s coastal environment.

Dr. Nedal Al-Oran, Programme Manager for Green Pathways and Inclusive Growth at UNDP Jordan, reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to strengthening coastal ecosystems in Aqaba through an environmentally sustainable approach that supports local communities and enhances their resilience to climate change.

In addition to environmental restoration, the project promotes eco-tourism by offering visitors the opportunity to adopt coral seedlings or native plants, fostering sustainable livelihoods through eco-friendly, nature-based tourism initiatives. It also includes policy and governance support, aligning ASEZA’s regulations with national and international biodiversity conservation and disaster risk reduction frameworks.

Spanning four years, the EmBRACE Project is one of the first of its kind in Aqaba, offering a holistic approach that integrates marine and terrestrial ecosystems. By fostering a participatory and sustainable model, the project is expected to enhance the resilience of local communities and improve the management of coastal ecosystems in Aqaba.

Notes to Editors

About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.

Media Enquiries
mamoon.al-rshaidat@undp.org 
firas.salameh@undp.org