Shipping Arabia, October 20, 2026 – Jordanian Prime Minister Dr. Jaafar Hassan has called for accelerating Aqaba ports expansion and modernization projects, emphasizing the importance of strengthening port capacity, operational efficiency and regional logistics connectivity. During an inspection visit to Aqaba’s port system, Hassan highlighted the ports’ growing role as a major regional gateway serving several neighboring countries despite ongoing regional challenges.
The prime minister chaired a meeting at Aqaba Company for Ports Operation and Management (ACPOM), where he reviewed port operations and development priorities. He praised the efficiency of the port system and urged officials to maintain the current pace of improvements while intensifying efforts to accommodate increasing activity.
Hassan said Jordan has consistently demonstrated its ability to transform challenges into opportunities. He credited the vision of King Abdullah II and the continued follow-up of Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II for driving development and achievements in Aqaba.
Aqaba Ports Expansion and Oil Port Development
During his visit, Hassan inspected the Aqaba Oil Port and reviewed development and expansion projects scheduled for completion within the next two years.
The planned improvements aim to increase the facility’s handling capacity, strengthen Jordan’s energy supply security and reinforce Aqaba’s position as a major hub for supplying petroleum products to neighboring countries.
Hassan stressed the importance of completing these projects as part of the broader effort to expand and modernize Aqaba’s maritime infrastructure. He also called for sustained efforts across the port system to keep pace with increasing operational activity.
The prime minister emphasized the need to maintain the highest standards of safety and security throughout Aqaba’s ports. He said these standards are essential for strengthening confidence in Jordan’s maritime facilities and improving their competitiveness.
Government Measures Improve Cargo Handling and Transit Trade
Hassan highlighted several government decisions implemented over the past year to support the rapid development of Aqaba’s port system and improve trade efficiency.
According to the prime minister, these measures have significantly accelerated cargo handling and customs clearance procedures while facilitating operations for importers and exporters.
The decisions have also strengthened transit trade, increased storage yard capacity and supported the continuity of supply chains and logistics operations. In addition, they have contributed to maintaining strategic reserves and developing the infrastructure required to support port activities.
Hassan emphasized that the government remains focused on maintaining these improvements as Aqaba’s ports continue to develop and handle growing levels of activity.
Aqaba–Shidiya–Ma’an Railway and Dry Port Projects
The prime minister also highlighted the importance of coordinating Aqaba’s port development with major inland transport and logistics infrastructure projects.
He noted that the foundation stone for the Aqaba–Shidiya–Ma’an railway project had been laid two weeks earlier. Hassan stressed that port infrastructure and logistics services must continue to develop alongside the implementation of this strategic railway project.
The coordinated development of maritime and inland transport infrastructure aims to improve freight movement, storage efficiency and transit trade. It is also intended to strengthen Aqaba’s position on the regional transport and logistics map.
Hassan identified the Aqaba–Ma’an dry port project as another strategic development priority for the government, emphasizing its role within Jordan’s broader transport and logistics development plans.
These projects form part of the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity between Aqaba’s maritime facilities and inland logistics infrastructure.
Natural Gas Infrastructure to Support Industry and Exports
Beyond the maritime sector, Hassan highlighted the natural gas supply project serving industrial complexes in Aqaba and Quweira, which the government inaugurated approximately three months earlier.
The project is expected to reduce operating costs for Jordanian industries, improve their competitiveness and support national exports to international markets.
Hassan explained that the industrial gas supply project complements the ongoing development of Aqaba’s port system, linking improvements in industrial infrastructure with broader efforts to strengthen trade and logistics capabilities.
He also expressed optimism about the launch of additional projects in Aqaba in the near future.
Throughout his visit, the prime minister praised the efforts of those responsible for managing and operating Aqaba’s ports. He called for continued momentum and greater efforts to support ongoing development, strengthen operational performance and reinforce Aqaba’s position as a regional maritime and logistics gateway.
Source: Prime Ministry of Jordan
