Aqaba, Oct. 21 (Petra) — The environmental impact assessment for the
JD280 million Riviera Heights waterfront development in Aqaba has
reached its final review stage, with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone
Authority (ASEZA) discussing the remaining requirements for its
approval.

The authority held a workshop Wednesday to review the study’s final
findings, proposed measures to mitigate environmental impacts during
construction and operation, and plans for environmental management
and monitoring. The workshop brought together representatives of
relevant government agencies, environmental experts, specialists, and
the team responsible for preparing the assessment.

Discussions focused on comments submitted by the relevant
authorities, the responses provided by the study team and the final
recommendations needed to complete the assessment’s approval
procedures in accordance with applicable regulations.

The ASEZA Environmental Impact Assessment Section Head, Iman Kouz,
stressed the importance of ensuring that development projects comply
with environmental standards and best practices. She said
environmental impact assessments play a key role in integrating
environmental, social and economic considerations into development
planning, reaffirming the authority’s commitment to cooperation with
relevant stakeholders.

Participants emphasized the need to implement the proposed preventive
and mitigation measures to minimize potential environmental impacts
and balance economic development with the protection of Aqaba’s
environment and natural resources.

The workshop concluded a series of meetings and technical discussions
held during the preparation and review of the study to ensure its
accuracy and comprehensiveness and to involve relevant stakeholders
in the assessment process.

The ASEZA said the process aims to support development decisions
based on scientific and technical considerations while promoting
sustainable development in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

The Riviera Heights project, developed by MAG Group Holding and AD
Ports Group in the Marsa Zayed area, comprises four residential
towers ranging from 35 to 38 floors, with more than 1,250 sea-view
residential units and a private beach. The development is expected to
be completed in the first quarter of 2028.

//Petra// AJ