UNDP - United Nations Development Programme

Purpose

The Protecting Marine Biodiversity in Aqaba project aims to conserve and restore marine and terrestrial biodiversity in the Gulf of Aqaba and surrounding coastal area, while fostering economic opportunities through innovative eco-tourism initiatives. It seeks to enhance the resilience of marine and land ecosystems in the region against the threat of climate change and human activity. On land, the project introduces native plants near dams along the coast to preserve essential habitat for birds, mammals, and reptiles. In the sea, artificial coral reefs are installed to provide additional habitat for marine life, serving as nurseries and feeding grounds for fish and other organisms. The project seeks to strengthen women’s entrepreneurial roles in coastal ecosystem management and resilience to enhance and improve the well-being of the broader coastal community, including women and youth. The project also focuses on effectively removing solid waste from the protected areas through clean-up dives, and relocating vulnerable corals developed on this waste.