AD Ports Group has signed an agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation to establish a state-of-the-art cruise terminal at Marsa Zayed in Aqaba.
It will be the first facility developed by AD Ports Group in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and its first cruise facility outside the United Arab Emirates.
The new terminal will serve as a gateway at the Port of Aqaba that will welcome cruise passengers visiting the Red Sea, in addition to serving as a major attraction for Aqaba residents with a wide range of tourism, commercial and entertainment services.
Another terms agreement was also signed, stating that AD Ports Group, through its digital arm, Maqta Gateway, will manage the implementation of an advanced Port Community System (PCS), which will oversee communication between Aqaba’s ports, terminal operators, customs, support services and shore connections for the Port of Aqaba.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of AD Ports Group, said, “We are delighted and proud to sign this strategic agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation. The establishment and operation of a new cruise terminal at Marsa Zayed will be a milestone for Jordan’s rapidly growing cruise and tourism sector, and is the first of many enhancement projects we have planned.”
“In addition, as part of our ongoing commitment to support the growth of Jordan’s maritime industry, AD Ports Group, through its digital arm, Maqta Gateway, is leveraging its digital expertise to implement a robust Port Community System in Aqaba’s port ecosystem that will accelerate the exchange of goods and elevate trade to new heights.”
Hussein Alsafadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation, said, “The development of the cruise terminal in Aqaba will significantly support the growth of the tourism sector in the Kingdom, which will expand the scope of on-site facilities and services.
“It will also facilitate the movement of cruise passengers arriving from Mediterranean and European countries, who often visit Jordan’s Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle, which stretches from the desert landscape of Wadi Rum to the sandy beaches of Aqaba and the ancient city of Petra, is considered by many to be one of Jordan’s top tourist destinations. This cooperation will also promote our tourism offerings, create new jobs and reinforce Aqaba’s status as an important regional center.
