Khaberni - The Chairman of the Commissioners Council of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Shadi Majali, said on Thursday, after signing the investment agreement with Abu Dhabi Ports Group, that the signing represents an important step towards the development of the multi-purpose Aqaba port, which will enhance Aqaba’s status as a regional logistics center and generally serve the Jordanian economy.
Majali added, in statements to "Al-Mamlaka" TV, "Abu Dhabi Ports has extensive experience in managing and operating ports, with international partnerships that qualify it to provide a distinguished model in managing the Aqaba port. We look forward to benefiting from this expertise in improving the transport and handling chain, and developing the security and logistics systems at the port, ensuring the facilitation of goods movement and achieving high efficiency in handling."
He explained that the development will include updating the docks and systems, with a focus on improving public safety, noting that the Aqaba port will witness significant developments in handling grains, cars, and general cargo.
He confirmed that this will contribute to a gradual increase in handling volume from year to year, stating that the project will not only serve Jordan, but will also enhance regional and international trade, and form part of a global trade system.
"The port will be a pivotal hub in the trade chain extending to include neighboring countries, which will provide significant opportunities for developing international partnerships, and transferring expertise in the fields of science, technology, and communications," according to Majali.
Majali mentioned that Ilah Co., which was established as a partnership between the Aqaba Development Corporation and Abu Dhabi Ports, will take charge of implementing a comprehensive program to connect all systems related to ports, shipping, and customs clearance, ensuring expedited handling procedures and customs clearance through the implementation of the pre-clearance system, which allows for the review of shipments while at sea and speeds up their arrival.
The Aqaba Development Corporation had signed an investment agreement worth more than 130 million dinars with Abu Dhabi Ports Group to develop and operate the multi-purpose port in Aqaba, in line with the kingdom’s economic modernization vision.
According to data published by social media pages of the economic modernization vision, the port's annual capacity approximates 11 million tons, with 9 docks totaling a length of 2 kilometers and a draft of 13.5 meters, allowing the receipt of ships of various sizes and enhancing the efficiency of handling operations.
The data showed that the port facilities handled more than 5 million tons of cargo during the year 2025, in addition to handling about one million heads of livestock, and approximately 85 thousand units of roll-on/roll-off vehicles (Ro-Ro).
The agreement indicates that the cumulative returns expected exceed 300 million dinars over the term of the agreement, as part of a comprehensive development program that includes updating infrastructure, introducing the latest equipment and machinery, and adopting smart operating systems (TOS) to enhance the efficiency of operations at the port.
The partnership also aims to enhance the position of Aqaba port as a global center for shipping vehicle trade within ships, storing them, and connecting them to global markets, and to develop logistical corridors for neighboring countries, reflecting on reducing shipping costs and enhancing the competitiveness of Jordanian trade movement.
