HTC Advances USAID-Funded Aqaba Birds Observatory Wetland & Water Infrastructure Works

Aqaba, Jordan — November 2024

Hasan Al-Tarawneh & Sons Contracting Co. Ltd. (HTC Contracting) is advancing the first package of development works at the Aqaba Birds Observatory (ABO), delivering a specialized environmental and water infrastructure project in northern Aqaba.

Funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented for Aqaba Water Company, the project combines engineered wetland development with hydraulic, structural, mechanical, electrical and environmental infrastructure.

The works are transforming a desert site into a controlled wetland environment designed to support biodiversity, migratory bird habitats, environmental research and eco-tourism development in Aqaba.

Engineered Wetland & Pond Infrastructure

A central component of the project is the construction of an engineered multi-cell pond system designed to retain, manage and circulate water across the observatory environment.

HTC’s works include extensive earthworks and site formation, high-performance pond lining systems, gravel bedding, edge stabilization and associated protection works.

The engineered pond system creates the physical and hydraulic foundation required for the long-term operation of the wetland environment.

Hydraulic Supply, Drainage & Circulation Systems

The project incorporates integrated water supply, drainage and circulation infrastructure designed to control water movement throughout the observatory.

HTC is delivering extensive HDPE water supply networks, drainage pipelines, chambers, control points, outlets and associated hydraulic infrastructure.

Pumping systems and water-control components provide the operational framework required to regulate water distribution, circulation and drainage across the wetland.

Structural, Mechanical & Electrical Infrastructure

The project extends beyond environmental works into a complete package of structural and electromechanical infrastructure.

HTC’s scope includes reinforced concrete works, pump-room infrastructure, mechanical systems, electrical distribution, MCC systems, cabling, lighting, earthing and control infrastructure.

The integration of civil, hydraulic, structural, mechanical and electrical disciplines demonstrates HTC’s ability to deliver technically complex environmental infrastructure as a coordinated system.

Supporting Biodiversity & Eco-Tourism in Aqaba

The Aqaba Birds Observatory plays an important role in environmental conservation, migratory bird habitat and ecological awareness in southern Jordan.

The project also incorporates pathways, fencing, stone edging, observation structures and supporting site-development elements designed to improve controlled access and visitor use.

By combining engineered infrastructure with ecological development, the project supports both environmental objectives and the continued growth of eco-tourism and research activities in Aqaba.

Strengthening HTC’s Environmental Infrastructure Portfolio

The Aqaba Birds Observatory project expands HTC’s experience in environmental infrastructure, engineered wetlands, water systems, hydraulic networks, pumping stations, earthworks and integrated electromechanical works.

The project demonstrates HTC’s versatility beyond conventional roads, buildings and industrial infrastructure, applying the company’s execution capabilities to environmentally sensitive and technically specialized development.

The USAID-funded package adds an important environmental and water infrastructure reference to HTC’s growing portfolio across Aqaba and Jordan.

Project: Aqaba Birds Observatory — Environmental Water Infrastructure & Wetland Development Works

Client: Aqaba Water Company

Funding Agency: United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Contractor: Hasan Al-Tarawneh & Sons Contracting Co. Ltd. (HTC Contracting)

Location: Northern Aqaba, Jordan

Status: Under Execution

Commencement: September 2024

Project Type: Environmental, Wetland & Hydraulic Infrastructure