The Royal Decree establishing the Jordan Maritime Authority was issued on 16/8/2002 with the aim of regulating, developing and monitoring the maritime transport sector in Jordan.

The Authority aims to achieve the following:

1.      Regulating, monitoring and developing the sector with all its components of means of transport, fixed and moveable equipment, and workers, as well as accompanying, inherent and directive services, in accordance with the State’s economic and social plans, taking into consideration the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Law in effect.

2.      Strengthening the role of the private sector and its contribution to the development and growth of the maritime sector.

3.      Encouraging competition and preventing monopoly within the sector.

4.      Contributing to the protection of marine life and raising the maritime safety level.

The Authority undertakes the following tasks to fulfill its goals:

1.      Granting work permits in all sector activities in coordination and cooperation with parties of specialty, taking into consideration the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Law in effect.

2.      Registering vessels under the Jordanian flag.

3.      Issuing legal certifications for Jordanian vessels.

4.      Issuing formal documents for sector workers, including eligibility certificates.

5.      Undertaking maritime monitoring and inspection operations of naval vessels and equipment inside the Port of Aqaba and within the Jordanian regional waters in accordance with national legislations and relevant international agreements.

6.      Monitoring maritime guidance and hauling, as well as coastal navigation within the Jordanian regional waters.

7.      Following up on maritime search and rescue operations inside and outside the Jordanian regional waters.

8.      Investigating maritime accidents that occur within the Jordanian regional waters and on Jordanian vessels wherever they may be.

9.      Making recommendations to the Ministry about bilateral, regional and international maritime agreements and following up their implementation.

10.   Representing the Kingdom on regional and international maritime institutions, organizations, councils, unions and committees and following up their activities.

11.   Cooperating and coordinating with relevant local, regional and international parties on the Authority’s work.

12.   Preparing studies and collecting information and data relevant to the sector, organizing and analyzing them, and issuing leaflets and quarterly reports on the sector’s activities.

13.   Exercising the authorities of the Port of Aqaba as stated in the Maritime Trade Law in effect.

14.   Any other authorities of other official parties assigned to the Authority by the Council of Ministers.