The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) is the financially and administratively autonomous institution responsible for the management, regulation, and the development of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ).

History

The Aqaba special economic zone or ASEZA was inaugurated in 2001 as an initiative by the government of Jordan to ensure that Aqaba’s commercial and cultural prominence develops to be a regional hub for trade, tourism, and culture. Six ministerial-level commissioners, each responsible for a major area of regulatory or operational activity, govern the ASEZ. ASEZA is a service–oriented organization offering one-stop assistance covering all investment needs.

Mission

The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) is the autonomous ASEZ management, regulation, and development institution. It offers integrated services and assistance to every concerned business and ensures all governing laws and regulations of ASEZ are made public.

Master plan

In 2002, ASEZA adopted a comprehensive master plan that encompasses development activities in the Zone for the promotion of portal, urban, tourist, commercial, academic, and other investment sectors. Developed planning already covers five special areas: Aqaba Town Port Areas Coral Coastal Zone Southern Industrial Zone Airport Industrial Zone The Master Plan aims at preserving natural resources within the construction frame. It comprises several zones and reserves for the protection of Aqaba's cultural, archaeological, historical and natural heritage and diversity. Areas include: Five environmental zones, coral reserves, archaeological reserves, natural area reserves and a Beach Protection Zone.

Aqaba International Laboratories

Aqaba International Laboratories - BEN HAYYAN was established under the EU funded programme “IS-ASEZA”, to support ASEZA in guiding the Aqaba Special Economic Zone towards becoming a dynamic and attractive engine of economic growth, enhancing public health and streamlining trade in the zone, Jordan and the region. The Ben Hayyan Aqaba International Laboratories offer analytical and advisory services for food and environment, operating under two interdependent units: the food safety and practical environmental science laboratories.

Aqaba Development Corporation

Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) was launched by ASEZA and the Government of Jordan at the beginning of 2004, ADC owns Aqaba's seaport, airport and strategic parcels of land as well as the development and management rights for these assets in addition to key infrastructure and utilities. The Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) was launched with the objective of unlocking the potential of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone by accelerating its economic growth and development.

Chief Commissioners

As of 2019, Aqaba Special Economic Zone has had 8 chief commissioners: