The project is expected to transport approximately 13 million tons of phosphate annually from Shadieh to Aqaba in its first phase, achieving integration with the Ma'an Land Port Project by enabling the efficient transport of various goods between Aqaba and Ma'an.
The project is a key part of a broader plan to establish a national railway network and is one of the most prominent projects of the Economic Modernization Vision.
The Jordanian-Emirates Railway Company is responsible for constructing and implementing the project, which is the result of a partnership between a group of Jordanian and Emirati companies and institutions.
During the foundation stone-laying ceremony, His Majesty King Abdullah II listened to a speech by Dr. Mohammad Dhenibat, Chairman of the Jordanian-Emirates Railway Company, who spoke about the importance of the project as a confident vision for a comprehensive economic and investment logistics renaissance, and which embodies the depth of historical relations between Jordan and the UAE.
He pointed to the strategic developmental role of the project, particularly through improving the efficiency of the transport sector, reducing operational costs, and developing new investment opportunities that enhance economic growth and provide job opportunities for Jordanians.
For his part, Eng. Shadi Malek, Deputy Chairman of the Jordanian-Emirates Railway Company and CEO of Etihad Rail, said that the project is not just a railway line, but a new economic artery that connects Jordan's resources and production centers to Aqaba Port and global markets.
He added that the project enhances the competitiveness of Jordanian exports, opens new investment opportunities and job opportunities, and establishes Aqaba as a strategic gateway for trade and growth.
In April last year, strategic agreements were signed between Jordan and the UAE, including the establishment of 360 km of railway tracks to transport phosphate and potash exports from Shadieh and Ghor Al-Safi to Aqaba.
The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Jafar Hassan, His Majesty's Office Director Eng. Alaa Al-Bataaineh, and a number of ministers and officials from both countries.
