Amman, April 8 (Petra) -- The Amra City project is expected to stimulate more than 50 sectors, said Chairperson of the Jordan Company for Developing Cities and Facilities, Musab Muhaidat, describing it as a "strategic national ambition and a key economic driver." Speaking during a session held on the sidelines of the Economic Forum for Diplomatic Missions in Jordan, Muhaidat noted that the first phase spans approximately 40,000 dunams, with several tenders awarded and others under evaluation. The project, he noted, is being developed on land owned by the Jordan Capital and Investment Fund and is set for completion by 2029.
He said the project offers substantive partnership opportunities for both domestic and international private sector investors, reflecting growing interest from major companies and sovereign wealth funds.
He said implementation is being carried out in coordination with relevant ministries and government entities to ensure efficiency and accelerate delivery.
He added that implementation is proceeding through priority developments, including an international stadium, a sports city, exhibition grounds, and a motor racing circuit, alongside integrated infrastructure works under a comprehensive master plan.
He stressed that the company is advancing efforts to position the project as a long-term engine for sustainable economic growth, structured across two main tracks covering priority developments and infrastructure. He added that clearly defined land-use allocations, including residential, commercial, and service zones, are designed to enhance investment attractiveness.
For his part, Director of the Public-Private Partnership Unit at the Ministry of Investment, Hamza Hajaya, said Jordan has achieved measurable progress in advancing partnership projects, particularly in strategic sectors such as energy, reflecting a sustained government commitment to the model.
He highlighted the importance of a robust legislative framework to ensure equitable risk allocation and balanced obligations between public and private stakeholders. He added that the unit works closely with government institutions to foster a conducive investment climate.
Hajaya said projects undergo a multi-stage evaluation process, including initial screening and detailed feasibility studies to ensure value for money and implementation efficiency. He noted that a portfolio of around 11 projects across multiple sectors has been launched following comprehensive legal, financial, and technical assessments, incorporating green transition and climate considerations.
He added that the government is offering bankable partnership opportunities supported by feasibility studies, while leveraging innovative financing instruments such as blended finance and partnerships with investment funds to enhance project viability and returns within a transparent governance framework.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of the Aqaba Development Corporation, Hussein Safadi, highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in attracting investment, particularly within the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.
Safadi said that while development corporations can facilitate partnerships, the key determinants remain clear legislation, a coherent investment ecosystem, and well-structured medium- and long-term opportunities.
He added that the development company model, implemented across several regions, contributes to promoting investment opportunities and streamlining procedures, underscoring the importance of prioritizing a focused pipeline of projects to accelerate execution.
Safadi also revealed ongoing negotiations with a global operator to develop King Hussein International Airport, with an announcement expected soon.
He said the Aqaba Special Economic Zone is advancing digital transformation through the launch of "Digital Aqaba" initiatives, aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and enhancing the delivery of government and investment services.
He added that these initiatives are expected to attract technology investments, support entrepreneurship, and reinforce Aqaba’s position as a regional economic hub.
//Petra// AJ
