Aqaba’s beaches are not just a place to relax under the warm sun, but rather a gateway to a magical and colorful world under the surface of the water. Here are stunning inshore coral reefs, which grow just offshore and surround the sand and shoals, creating a rich habitat for hundreds of species of colorful fish, sea turtles, crustaceans, molluscs and all sorts of other diverse marine life. These reefs also act as a natural shield that protects the coast from erosion and erosion, and maintains the balance of the beach and its unique beauty.

But some visitors make a common and costly mistake: they think that these reefs are just solid rocks that can be stepped on or stood on without harm. The truth is that they are very delicate and sensitive living marine organisms. Every wrong step causes fractures and scratches, leading to their death and the death of the small creatures that live on them and depend on them for their survival. What appears to some to be a moment of curiosity, innocent play, or a rest stop, is in fact a direct harm to a marine treasure accumulated over thousands of years. It is part of local threats that combine with other global challenges such as climate change.

The damage is not limited to the reefs themselves; With its death, the entire food chain is affected, and one of our most beautiful marine ecosystems is depleted compared to other seas in the world. The coast is also increasingly vulnerable to degradation and erosion. Every unconscious step on these precious reefs is a link in a long chain of environmental destruction, which may lead to the decline of the unique biodiversity that characterizes our smiling bay.

It is no longer just educational advice, but rather a strict legal obligation. According to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority’s environmental protection regulations, in particular the Aqaba Marine Reserve Regulations, damaging coral reefs – whether intentionally or as a result of negligence – is a serious environmental violation. Explicitly prohibited violations include: harming, transporting, or destroying coral or marine creatures without a permit, with the imposition of large financial fines and legal accountability, in order to preserve this rare natural heritage, which is considered one of the most resilient reefs to climate change globally.

So that we can all be protectors of this beautiful marine treasure: completely avoid stepping on coral reefs, stick to the paths and areas designated for swimming and diving, and teach your children and visitors how to deal with the sea with respect and awareness. These are simple steps, but they are effective, and their effects will extend to future generations – God willing. In Aqaba, every conscious step is a message of love and protection: we preserve the sea for ourselves and for future generations. Let your marine experience be one of respect, not destruction. Coral reefs cannot scream in pain, but any impact of our neglect will affect all of us, and the groups that depend on them for their livelihood, such as fishermen, divers, glass boat owners, and everyone who works in marine tourism. It will also leave an impact on our future generations in every loss they may suffer.

Always remember: the sea is a shared treasure, and our feet are responsible for keeping it healthy, thriving and vibrant for the future.