# Aqaba and JICA sign discussion record for smart-city capacity project

> The initiative covers a technology roadmap, training and expert advice for ASEZA teams.

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- Publisher: Newsverum
- Section: Infrastructure
- Country: Jordan
- Published: 2026-10-18T21:10:53+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-18T21:10:53+00:00
- Event / data period: 2026-10-18
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The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a Record of Discussion for a project to strengthen smart-city capacity. According to Petra’s October 18 announcement, the JICA-funded initiative focuses on a roadmap for smart-city technologies in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

The work includes a smart-city master plan, professional training, a study visit to Japan and expert advice for ASEZA teams. JICA’s updated 15-year regional master plan, finalized in late 2024, listed 99 projects across investment sectors. That figure describes the earlier plan, rather than 99 construction contracts awarded under the new record or completed infrastructure.

## Data

### Aqaba and JICA sign discussion record for smart-city capacity project

Methodology: The new signature concerns a capacity-building Record of Discussion. The 99 projects and 15 years refer to the earlier regional plan finalized in late 2024. No budget for the new project is stated.

| Indicator | Projects in plan | Plan horizon | Scope and basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earlier regional master plan | 99 | 15 | Updated in late 2024; not a count of new contracts or completions |
| New smart-city capacity project |  |  | Record of Discussion signed; roadmap, training and advice |

Sources: <https://petra.gov.jo/en/news/aseza-jica-sign-agreement-for-aqaba-smart-city-initiative> · Download data: [JSON](https://newsverum.com/api/v1/articles/jordan-aqaba-jica-smart-city-capacity-agreement-2026/data/plans-and-stages?lang=en&format=json) · [CSV](https://newsverum.com/api/v1/articles/jordan-aqaba-jica-smart-city-capacity-agreement-2026/data/plans-and-stages?lang=en&format=csv)

## Sources

- [Jordan News Agency (Petra)](<https://petra.gov.jo/en/news/aseza-jica-sign-agreement-for-aqaba-smart-city-initiative>) (Source checked: 2026-10-18; Published: 2026-10-18)

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