Aqaba International Stadium Unveiled After Revamp, Aims to Boost Sports Tourism

AQABA, Jordan - The Aqaba International Stadium has been inaugurated following extensive renovations aimed at enhancing sports infrastructure and readiness, according to officials.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Chief Commissioner Shadi Al Majali, Aqaba Governor Ayman Al Awaisheh, and Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) CEO Hussein Al-Safadi, along with representatives from official, sports, community, and media sectors in the city.

Al-Safadi highlighted the stadium's redevelopment as a commitment to a developmental vision that aligns with the directives of Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, emphasizing the importance of supporting youth, developing their skills, and providing an environment that enables them to excel in various fields, especially sports.

The renovation project included technical and construction updates, featuring a large, modern display screen to enhance the audience experience, according to officials. The stadium's field has been replaced with internationally approved modern artificial turf to ensure safety and provide an ideal environment for matches and tournaments.

Furthermore, the lighting system has been completely updated to meet FIFA requirements, enhancing the stadium's readiness for hosting sports events at any time. Spectator seating has been replaced with modern, comfortable options, and player seating and facilities have been upgraded to meet technical standards. Player rooms have been fully renovated, and the main platform has been developed to align with official organization and reception requirements, according to officials.

The project also included adopting a new visual identity for the stadium, reflecting its status as a modern sports facility, and officially renaming it from "Aqaba Development Stadium" to "Aqaba Stadium" to enhance its presence on the sports facilities map and align with aspirations to attract regional and international tournaments and events, according to officials.

These upgrades are part of ADC's efforts to develop integrated vital facilities that serve the sports sector, empower youth, enhance the quality of life in the city, and solidify Aqaba's position as a leading sports and tourism destination, according to officials.

The inauguration ceremony featured a friendly match on the stadium grounds between teams from ASEZA, ADC, the Aqaba Ports Management and Operation Company, and Shabab Al-Aqaba Club, demonstrating the facility's readiness and its role in supporting sports and football in the city.

The revamped Aqaba International Stadium represents a qualitative leap in the development of sports infrastructure in Aqaba, reflecting ADC's commitment to implementing developmental projects that enhance the city's competitiveness and solidify its position as a major destination for hosting sports events and tournaments at the regional and international levels, according to officials.