Abu Dhabi Ports Group, ADC sign multiple development agreements

AQABA — The Abu Dhabi Ports Group and the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) on Sunday signed multiple agreements for development of tourism, transport, logistics and digital infrastructure in Aqaba.

The AD Ports Group and the ADC signed four strategic agreements and a Head of Terms Agreement (HoT). 

Deputising for Prime Minister Bisher Al Khasawneh Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Nasser Shraideh and UAE’s Ambassador to Jordan Ahmed Al Baloushi attended the event, among other officials and notables.

According to a statement from the AD Ports Group, the strategic partnerships concern the development of Marsa Zayed, a cruise terminal, and the development of an advanced digital Port Community System, in addition to HoT agreements to explore the development and modernisation of a multipurpose port and King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba.

In his opening remarks, CEO of AD Ports Group Juma Al Shamisi indicated that mutual investments between the UAE and Jordan are currently estimated at about $20 billion, and these new projects come to enhance the volume of Emirati investments in Jordan.

“We are confident that the projects, which will be implemented under these agreements, will constitute a valuable addition to the programmes for developing the sectors of trade, logistics, tourism, transportation and digital transformation in Jordan, thus establishing Aqaba’s position as a major regional hub and as a distinct destination for tourism and entertainment in the Red Sea region,” Shamisi said.

Shamisi noted that the mega-projects represent one of the most significant integrated transport, logistics and tourism development programmes announced in Jordan during recent years. 

“Working with our partners in the ADC, these ambitious projects will significantly expand the facilities available to travellers and businesses via sea, land and air,” he added.

Nayef Bakhit, chief commissioner of Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, and chairman of the ADC, said: “We have found a key partner in the AD Ports Group, which has the vision, expertise and track record necessary to develop world-class port and cruise and digital infrastructure.”

Bakhit indicated that the agreements and HoT on the development of Marsa Zayed and a cruise terminal, exploring the modernisation of a multipurpose port, the development of King Hussein International Airport, and the establishment of “Maqta Ayla” for digital systems, “represent a significant addition to our efforts that aim to develop the Aqaba region, and enable rising volumes of visitors to come and experience the Golden Triangle of Jordan, with our unique tourism offerings of Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the ancient city of Petra,” he added.

Hussein Al Safadi, CEO of the ADC said this collaboration and strategic partnership, “will help in creating investments and job opportunities, as well as foster the role of Aqaba as a key regional hub in trade, logistics, maritime and air transportation”.

The Marsa Zayed Land Agreement is focused on the development of a land area of 1.2 million sqm in phase 1 of the development of the 3.2 million sqm Marsa Zayed area by AD Ports Group, which will include a cruise terminal, tourism, leisure, residential and other projects. The development is planned to position Aqaba as a major Red Sea destination of choice, according to the AD Ports Group’s statement.

The Development of King Hussein International Airport Agereeent is based on the development of King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, to enable increasing volumes of international and domestic tourism, ensuring a seamless journey for passengers moving between the airport and the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, while enhancing air logistics and expanding Aqaba’s air network connectivity, the statement said.