February 11 2025 8:44 PM Newsletter

Ayla: A Premier Sports Destination and Platform for Excellence

Ayla: A Premier Sports Destination and Platform for Excellence
 Ayla has emerged as a world-class residential and tourism destination, committed to sustainable environmental, social, and economic development. At its core, Ayla places sports as a key pillar of its operations, offering a comprehensive sports ecosystem that supports national athletics and inspires Jordanian youth.
As a dynamic and modern community, Ayla has leveraged its unique capabilities, 25 years of expertise, and state-of-the-art infrastructure to foster a thriving youth and sports sector. It has become a hub for sustainability, healthy living, and major sporting events at the local, regional, and international levels.
A Commitment to Sports
Mansour Kabariti, Public Relations Manager at Ayla Oasis Development Company, emphasized that Ayla’s success stems from strong partnerships between national institutions, the private sector, and the sports and youth community. Ayla views sports as a core component of its mission, featuring prominently in its annual event calendar. The company is dedicated to supporting Jordanian athletes, helping them reach championship podiums while promoting sports tourism in Aqaba.
Ayla has taken significant steps to strengthen its collaboration with Jordan’s sports and youth sectors, embodying values of competitiveness, perseverance, and sustainability. By investing in sports infrastructure, Ayla has set an example of how private sector initiatives can play a transformative role in national development.
Through strategic partnerships, Ayla supports Jordanian sports organizations, including the Ministry of Youth, the Jordan Olympic Committee, the Jordan Golf Federation, the Royal Jordanian Marine Sports Federation, the Jordan Triathlon Association, the Jordan Cycling Federation, the Jordan Athletics Federation, Run Jordan, Aqaba Youth Club, and others.
World-Class Sports Facilities
Over the past two decades, Ayla has developed comprehensive sports facilities catering to a wide range of disciplines. These include water sports, golf, running, triathlon, duathlon, cycling, as well as team sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, and tennis.
These top-tier facilities provide essential training resources, nurture young talent, and serve as venues for hosting national and international championships.
Golf: A Global Success Story
Ayla has placed a strong focus on golf, recognizing the sport’s potential to integrate tourism and athletics in Aqaba and across Jordan. It developed Jordan’s first grass championship golf course, covering 800,000 square meters.
Designed by world-renowned golf architect Greg Norman, the 18-hole championship course and 9-hole academy course welcome both amateur and professional players. Since its opening, Ayla has hosted numerous local, regional, and international golf tournaments.
To further support the sport, Ayla established a state-of-the-art golf academy, making the game accessible to all enthusiasts. Its successful efforts in hosting global tournaments have elevated Aqaba’s sports profile, boosted tourism, and contributed to increased hotel occupancy rates.
Additionally, Ayla has integrated and trained local community members and university students to work in its golf facilities as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Expanding Sports Offerings
Beyond golf, Ayla caters to a diverse range of athletic interests. Its facilities accommodate training camps and sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Currently, Ayla offers 10 high-quality sports courts, including two tennis courts, two children’s tennis courts, two padel courts, a basketball court, a five-a-side football field, and a grass football training field.
Encouraging a Healthy Lifestyle
Ayla’s commitment to sports goes beyond competition, encouraging residents and visitors to embrace an active lifestyle. Dedicated running and cycling tracks promote fitness and well-being.
In collaboration with the Jordan Athletics Federation, Ayla hosts major endurance events, including the Asia and Oceania 100km Ultramarathon Championship and the annual Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon.
Ayla has also hosted multiple editions of the prestigious Ayla ASTC Triathlon Asian Cup, as well as the Ayla Aqaba Asian Duathlon Championship.
A Hub for Water Sports
With its prime coastal location, Ayla has become a premier destination for water sports and aquatic activities. It hosts numerous open-water championships, including fin swimming competitions, club-level swimming tournaments, and sailing regattas featuring laser and optimist classes.
Ayla is also a preferred venue for underwater photography contests and scuba diving events, supported by a specialized technical team and world-class equipment. The community offers unique cycling experiences and is home to Jordan’s only dedicated water-skiing park.
For younger athletes, Ayla provides fun and challenging experiences through its floating water park, making it an ideal destination for children and families.
A Thriving Sports Hub
Ayla continues to spotlight Jordanian athletic talent by organizing and hosting major local and international competitions. It actively supports, sponsors, and empowers local sports organizations and athletes.
Ayla Oasis Development Company views sports as a powerful platform to showcase Jordan’s progress and growth. By supporting national tourism and economic development—particularly in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone—Ayla has established itself as a vibrant center of activity where “Sports for All” is more than just a motto—it’s a way of life.