Coffee, Clean-ups and Coral Magic: Green Fins Jordan in Action

Written by Dom Wyszogrodzki (Green Fins Jordan assessor)

The sun’s just beginning to rise over Aqaba, painting the Red Sea in fiery hues of orange and gold. There’s something magical about mornings here. Maybe it’s the promise of a day spent among the coral reefs, or perhaps it’s knowing that you’re part of a bigger mission — protecting these treasures for generations to come. As I sip my coffee (a necessity, not a luxury), I can’t help but reflect on everything the Green Fins Jordan team has achieved in the last year. Let me tell you, it’s been quite the ride.

When I think of our team, the word “passionate” doesn’t even begin to cover it. We’re a motley crew united by a love for the ocean and a stubborn refusal to accept the status quo. Leading the charge with me are two absolute legends: Tareq Al Salmam and Col. Anas Bani Younes. Tareq’s the kind of guy who can convince even the most sceptical dive centre owner that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the future, and he’s absolutely right! And Col. Anas? Well, let’s just say he’s the steady hand on the wheel, keeping us all focused and on track. Together, we’ve had a cracker of a year.

In the past month, we’ve managed to assess nine dive centres (Arab Divers, Deep Blue Dive Center, Red Sea Dive Center Bait Al-Aqaba, Coral Garden Diving Center, Red Coral Dive Center, Rio Dive Center Aqaba, Royal Diving Club, Sea Wonders Diving Center). That’s nine unique conversations, nine opportunities to make a tangible difference, and nine times I’ve been reminded of why we do this. But we’re not stopping there. We’ve got another eight dive centres lined up, including three shiny new recruits. This shows that the diving industry in Aqaba is eager to make diving in Aqaba a sustainable one! Watching these operators embrace eco-friendly practices has been nothing short of inspiring. There’s a real buzz in Aqaba’s diving community right now — a sense that we’re all in this together.

Top left to right: Arab Divers, Deep Blue Dive Center, Red Sea Dive Center | Bottom left to right: Bait Al-Aqaba, Coral Garden Diving Center, Red Coral Dive Center, Rio Dive Center Aqaba, Royal Diving Club, Sea Wonders Diving Center

Speaking of buzz, let’s talk about the big news. In 2024, Aqaba was recognised in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories. Yes, you read that right. We made the list, and let me tell you, it’s a big deal. This isn’t just a pat on the back; it’s a testament to the hard work, collaboration and sheer determination that’s gone into making Aqaba a leader in sustainable tourism. The story that got us there? The strategic scuttling of military wrecks to create artificial reefs. It’s the perfect blend of innovation and conservation and it has put Aqaba firmly on the map for divers around the world.

Of course, Green Fins Jordan played a big part in that story. Our work with ASEZA and local dive centres has helped ensure that these artificial reefs are not just cool dive sites but thriving ecosystems. And now, we’re asking for your support. The Green Destinations People’s Vote runs from the 13th to the 24th of January, and every vote counts. Seriously, if you’ve ever wanted to help make a difference from the comfort of your couch, this is your chance.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m filled with equal parts excitement and caffeine-fuelled energy. We’ve got big plans — and I mean big. We’re kicking off the year with our first Green Fins Cleanup Dive at the Aqaba Marine Science Station. It’s going to be a fantastic opportunity to bring together stakeholders, divers and the local community for a common cause. From there, we’re diving headfirst into a packed calendar of beach clean-ups, awareness sessions, and educational events. Whether it’s chatting with school kids about marine conservation or working with dive operators to fine-tune their eco-briefings, we’re determined to make 2025 a year of impact.

Let’s not forget Boot Düsseldorf in January. Green Fins Jordan will be represented at the Visit Aqaba booth, sharing our story with divers and industry professionals from around the globe. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase Aqaba’s unique diving opportunities and highlight the incredible work of our Green Fins dive centres. Plus, it’s a great excuse to indulge in some German pretzels (priorities, right?).

Reflecting on 2024, I’m struck by the sense of community that underpins everything we do. From the dedication of our team to the enthusiasm of Aqaba’s dive centres and the support of local and global partners like ASEZA/Visit Aqaba and The Reef-World Foundation, it’s clear that this is a collective effort. Every clean-up dive, every assessment, and every vote for Aqaba is a step toward a brighter, more sustainable future.

So, what do you say? Will you join us? Vote for Aqaba between the 13th and 24th of January, come along to one of our events or choose a Green Fins dive centre for your next underwater adventure. Together, we can protect Aqaba’s reefs, inspire responsible tourism, and create a legacy that will make us all proud.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, there’s a sunrise over the Red Sea that’s not going to admire itself. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead — and to making waves for a better tomorrow. Happy 2025!