An official speaks during the event.

An exclusive investor roadshow organised in Abu Dhabi by Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC), the central development arm of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), was an overwhelming success highlighting investment opportunities for UAE-based and international investors.

The tremendous response from global investors expressing interest and intent to invest in Aqaba underlines the strong value proposition offered by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

It includes exceptional benefits for them in a thriving tourism and business hub, underscored by easy access to world-class ports and airports.

Held at Erth in Abu Dhabi on June 25, the “Aqaba - It’s Happening” roadshow showcased investment value propositions in Jordan’s picturesque coastal city of Aqaba, in developments such as the Al Matal High Lakes, a 2.5 million sq.m entertainment and recreational community overlooking the northern beach; and a Hotel & Retail Complex, envisaged as a vibrant hub featuring four-star accommodations, diverse shops, restaurants, entertainment options, and state-of-the-art office spaces.

Investors also had the opportunity to explore options in the South Central District, which integrates residential spaces, retail establishments, premium hotels, restaurants, entertainment facilities, and a tech and gaming park.

Another key opportunity is investing in the Aqaba International Exhibition Center, a premier venue for exhibitions, trade shows, and significant private events on a land area of over 170,000 square meters and a built-up area of 35,000 square meters.

For investors looking beyond conventional businesses, the Aqaba International Racetrack is a promising destination. It is an FIA grade 3 certified track featuring a main racetrack, karting track, low-friction center, and car vaults.

Several investors have expressed interest in the Agri-Tech Corridor, which features advanced indoor farming, food production units, fisheries, and intelligent agriculture.

Many also expressed interest in the 140,000-square-meter Aqaba Filming & Media Hub, which has comprehensive production facilities, sound stages, a backlot, production office spaces, and vocational training centers.

Addressing the participants, Hussein Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation, said: “Aqaba is the gateway from Jordan to the entire Middle East and North Africa region as well as to strategic European cities. Underlining the vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II for the country, Aqaba has evolved as a global tourism and business hub and continues to expand on the growth opportunities it offers.

In addition to an array of benefits for investors, they can benefit from the strategic location, world-class infrastructure, effortless connectivity, and access to the digital-savvy young Jordanian talent pool, making it one of the most promising investment destinations of the future.”

Najib Faris, CIO of Aqaba Development Corporation, added: “With several investors from the UAE, the wider GCC, and across the world already having a strong operational presence in Aqaba, we are now showcasing diversified investment choices, especially in the industries of the future. Aqaba’s strategic location makes it a cost-effective investment destination, enabling investors to expand their footprint in new markets.”

Several experts at ADC and other investors highlighted the advantages and future growth opportunities offered by Aqaba. Among those who addressed the event was Abdulla Al Ansari, Director of Real Estate – International Office – AD Ports Group, who delivered a presentation on Marsa Zayed, a mega mixed-use waterfront project, including high-rise residential towers, retail, recreational, entertainment, business and financial districts, and several branded hotels.  Several marinas will add to the current berthing capacity, transforming Aqaba into a premier yachting destination and a state-of-the-art cruise ship terminal, becoming one of Jordan’s touristic landmarks and a welcoming gateway to Aqaba.

Abdulrahman Alnuaimi, Key Accounts Manager at Maqta Gateway, Digital Cluster of AD Ports Group, provided a detailed overview of the Maqta Ayla, a JV between Maqta Gateway, the digital arm of AD Ports Group, and Aqaba Development Corporation. The joint venture company will revolutionise Aqaba’s port operations by implementing an advanced Ports Community System (PCS) that leverages Maqta Gateway’s expertise.

Omar Nashashibi, Director of Revenue and Business Development at Al Ayla Oasis Development Authority, highlighted the investment opportunities at Ayla, a 4.3 million sqm inspirational waterfront destination committed to environmental sustainability by protecting the integrity of its marine and wildlife, recycling its water resources and harnessing solar energy for power. Ayla features world-class hotels, dream homes, and a thriving marina, all adding to residents’ lifestyle choices and creating value for investors.