Aqaba, June 15 (Petra) -- The designation of the Aqaba Bird Observatory as a Special Protection Area under the Protected Areas and National Parks Regulation No. 29 of 2005 marks a significant step in strengthening biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental management efforts.

Commissioner for Environment and Public Safety at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Nidal Al-Aouran described the approval of the observatory's nomination file as a major national achievement that reflects the commitment to protecting natural resources and preserving biodiversity.

He said the designation was the result of coordinated efforts and effective partnerships involving ASEZA, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, Aqaba Development Company and Aqaba Water Company, in addition to support and coordination from the Ministry of Environment and other national stakeholders.

Al-Aouran noted that the new status provides a legal and administrative framework for safeguarding the site and preserving its ecological value over the long term.

For his part, Aqaba Bird Observatory Director Firas Al-Rahahleh said the observatory represents a pioneering example of nature-based solutions, having been developed through the reuse of treated wastewater to create artificial wetlands that serve as an important habitat for both migratory and resident bird species.

He explained that the observatory is located along the world's second most important migratory bird flyway, making it a key site for biodiversity conservation and environmental monitoring.

According to Al-Rahahleh, the observatory has recorded more than 270 bird species, representing over 60 percent of the species documented in the Kingdom.

He added that the site has become one of the country's leading locations for birdwatching and biodiversity conservation and is managed through a partnership between ASEZA and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature.

The designation is expected to strengthen the national network of protected sites and enhance integration between existing protected areas and special conservation zones.

Officials said the move supports broader efforts to preserve the Kingdom's natural heritage and ensure its sustainability for future generations through strengthened environmental protection measures and biodiversity conservation initiatives.

//Petra// RZ