Jordan, October 2026 — Jordan has begun construction of the Aqaba–Al-Shidiyeh–Maan freight railway, a major infrastructure project intended to improve the movement of mineral resources and strengthen the country's transport links with international markets. The initiative forms part of Jordan's broader plans to establish a national railway network connecting industrial centres, logistics facilities and seaports.
The project involves a planned 403-kilometre rail network, supported by joint Jordanian–Emirati investment of approximately US$2.5 billion. Infrastructure works include around 55 bridges and six tunnels, with construction expected to take approximately five years. The railway is designed to transport phosphate, potash and containerised freight between production sites, the Maan Logistics Zone and Aqaba's industrial port.
Once operational, the network is forecast to carry approximately 13 million tonnes of phosphate and 2.6 million tonnes of potash annually. The shift from road to rail is expected to reduce mineral transportation costs by around US$40 million per year while easing pressure on the road network and improving the competitiveness of Jordanian exports.
The project is being developed by Jordan-UAE Railway, a joint venture involving Abu Dhabi-based L'IMAD Holding and Jordanian partners, including Jordan Phosphate Mines Company, Arab Potash Company, the Government Investments Management Company and the Social Security Investment Fund. UAE railway operator Etihad Rail will lead development, bringing experience in railway construction and operations to the partnership.
The railway represents an initial step towards a wider national network that could eventually connect Aqaba with Amman and other industrial centres, with potential future links to neighbouring countries. Its progress will be significant for regional freight connectivity, demonstrating how dedicated rail infrastructure can support mining exports, logistics development and cross-border trade.
Source: International Railway Journal
Jordan Begins Construction Of US$2.5 Billion Freight Railway Network
Journalism & Media
Share this story
Freight railways can strengthen mineral export logistics by connecting production centres directly with ports, reducing dependence on road transport and improving supply-chain efficiency. Jordan and the United Arab Emirates broke ground on a US$2.5 billion railway project on 5 October 2026, launching construction of a network designed to connect mining areas with the Port of Aqaba.
