SUSTAINABILITY AND SYSTEMS APPROACH

 As Jordan’s first designated marine reserve, the Aqaba Marine Reserve is a cornerstone of the country’s INTEGRATED COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT (ICZM) strategy and a flagship initiative for ecosystem-based climate resilience. The AMR safeguards critical habitats for fish breeding and coral health, reinforcing the long-term sustainability of local fisheries, marine tourism, and recreational industries.

The reserve plays a catalytic role in the local economy by linking conservation to livelihoods—empowering fishers, divers, and tourism operators through training, infrastructure, and market access. Additionally, the development of alternative income streams such as aquaculture reduces reliance on wild stocks, ensuring ecological and economic sustainability.

ELEVATING GLOBAL AND LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

The AMR’s inclusion in the IUCN Green List and its nomination as a UNESCO WORLD NATURAL HERITAGE SITE signal global recognition of Jordan’s leadership in marine conservation. Locally, two freezing units (31 m³ capacity) and tailored support programmes are enabling fishermen and glass-bottom boat operators to upgrade their practices. A gender mainstreaming strategy for ICZM and a newly developed fishing guideline further reinforce inclusive, participatory marine governance.
 

PROOF OF CONCEPT: FROM CONSERVATION TO FINANCEREADY COASTAL DEVELOPMENT

The AMR exemplifies how nature-based solutions can be integrated with economic opportunity, aligning with UNDP’s shift from funding to financing. As a platform for blue economy development, the reserve provides a replicable model for investing in coastal resilience, eco-tourism infrastructure, and sustainable fisheries. Its embedded systems of monitoring, policy alignment, and stakeholder engagement provide the accountability and transparency frameworks needed to attract public and private financing.