Recently, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, flew to Jordan. He met with King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan, and together they witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Aqaba-Al-Shidiya-Ma’an Railway Project. This happened in Aqaba, Jordan, and here’s all you need to know about the project that is being developed by the Jordan-UAE Railway Company.
Aqaba-Al-Shidiya-Ma’an Railway Project Foundation Stone Laid
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Aqaba-Al-Shidiya-Ma’an Railway Project is being developed through a joint UAE and Jordanian investment of about $2.5 billion. As revealed in a report by Gulf News, this includes the development of 403 km of rail network. Abu Dhabi Media Office, in its report, also mentions that this reflects the vision and directives of UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein.
What Is This Project?
With the aim of consolidating a sustainable strategic partnership between the two countries, it is founded on joint action and enhanced frameworks for cooperation and coordination. The largest of its kind in the railway sector in Jordan, it aims to connect Aqaba with mining and production sites. With Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirming the strength and depth of relations between the UAE and Jordan, he also affirms the close cooperation and continued coordination between the two countries.
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Why Is This Railway Project Important?
The launch of this project reflects the two countries’ commitment towards further strengthening their bilateral partnership. The launch of strategic projects supports shared interests and also opens new horizons for cooperation across key sectors. This project work includes the construction of railway tracks, around 55 bridges, associated engineering structures, and six tunnels. In terms of the economy, the project will extend across several sectors and regions in itself. It is expected to create 5,000 jobs in Southern Jordan and would also reduce phosphate and potash transportation costs by about $40 million annually.
An important development for both countries, it is truly a high-impact partnership across the sector.
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