Jordan Dead Sea Development Zone Master Plan | Sasaki

In order to capitalize on its cultural and political assets, the Government of Jordan has established a series of six Development Zones in which directed efforts are being made to increase foreign and domestic investment. The Dead Sea Development Zone encompasses 40 square kilometers of coastal land along the lowest body of water on earth. The Detailed Master Plan for the Dead Sea Development Zone lays out a vision and blueprint for fostering a dynamic, robust, and sustainable tourism-based economy at the Dead Sea that will become a source of pride and revenue for the Kingdom and set the highest standard for sustainable development and innovative urban design. Critically, the plan establishes a "balanced approach" between development and conservation of this most precious resource. At the same time, it will strengthen local economies and greatly support social infrastructure for nearby existing communities. Comprehensive design guidelines, a detailed infrastructure report, and an extensive market study enable the client to attract investment. Future development will follow a carefully choreographed phasing plan that capitalizes on existing investments, introduces infrastructure to precede development, and preserves large contiguous tracts of developable land as future land banks. The year-long master planning process focused on critical work sessions held in Amman with local community leaders, government officials, international and local investors, and leading academics. Jury Comments The jury appreciated the project’s emphasis on the creation of a public waterfront, unusual in this region of resorts. The development of a planning strategy that is structured around the movement of water demonstrates an ecological sensitivity. The master plan skillfully accommodates different populations and is incredibly comprehensive.