Aqaba: The fourth Arab Open Fishing Championship concluded in Aqaba, bringing together competitors from five Arab nations for two days of contests in the Red Sea port city.
According to Jordan News Agency, teams from Jordan, Egypt, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Yemen participated in the tournament, which was organized by the Royal Jordanian Marine Sports Federation. The event was supported and sponsored by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and hosted by Tala Bay Resort. Egypt emerged victorious in the heaviest fish competition, followed by Jordan in second place and Yemen in third. Kuwait's A team secured the top position in the highest total catch by weight category.
Alongside the Arab tournament, the first Local Companies Fishing Championship took place, attracting 11 teams from companies and institutions across Aqaba and Jordan. Aqaba Container Terminal claimed the overall title in the corporate championship, with Aqaba Columns Company for Cement and Steel Distribution and ASEZA finishing in second and third place, respectively. Al-Jawahir for Tourism Investments won the highest total catch by weight category.
ASEZA Deputy Chief Commissioner Karima Al-Dabet highlighted the growing potential of fishing competitions to blend competitive sport with Aqaba's marine tourism offerings. She noted that participation from the Arab region and spectator engagement could bolster sports tourism and enhance Aqaba's standing as a regional hub for marine sports. Al-Dabet also emphasized the significance of the local companies' championship in broadening participation in the sport.
Royal Jordanian Marine Sports Federation President Thabet Al-Nabulsi stated that the championship is part of ongoing efforts to advance competitive fishing in Jordan and increase the Kingdom's involvement in Arab marine sporting events. He expressed optimism that continued collaboration between the federation, ASEZA, and other partners would facilitate regular marine competitions in Aqaba, providing more opportunities for Arab teams and athletes to compete and exchange knowledge.
The tournament concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the winning teams, sponsors, and supporting organizations, attended by Aqaba Development Corporation Executive Director for Corporate Affairs Khaled Allawi. The federation announced plans to further develop fishing competitions and other marine sporting events to elevate competitive standards and expand Aqaba's presence on the regional marine sports calendar.