AGP Executive Report

Independence Day push for growth: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated the Dead Sea Corniche and new tourist beach projects, unveiling a 1.2-kilometre promenade with cycling, sports and an outdoor theatre as Jordan marks 80 years of independence. Cybersecurity drive: The Economic Modernization Vision report says Jordan has rolled out 3 national cybersecurity initiatives since the start of 2026, including bootcamps, awareness campaigns and steps to strengthen incident response. Investment momentum: Foreign direct investment hit about JD1.43 billion in 2025, while the government upgraded Invest.Jo into a unified digital gateway and prepared further bylaw amendments to streamline investor procedures. Regional diplomacy and aid: Jordan’s Crown Prince met Germany’s economic minister and discussed cooperation on water and vocational training; meanwhile the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization began a week-long “Eid Clothing” programme for children in Gaza and earlier dispatched a 25-truck relief convoy to Lebanon. Security at Al-Aqsa: Jordan condemned repeated Israeli extremist incursions into Al-Aqsa, warning of violations of the holy site’s legal status quo. Weather: Sunny, mild conditions in most areas, with dust risk in desert regions.

Diplomatic Push in Berlin: Crown Prince Hussein met Germany’s economic cooperation minister Reem Alabali Radovan, praising German support for Jordan’s National Water Conveyance Project and technical education, and urging deeper expertise exchange ahead of a Jordan-EU investment conference. Skills and Industry Link: Hussein and Princess Rajwa toured Berlin’s ABB Training Centre, highlighting robotics, automation and digitalisation as models Jordan wants to replicate for water and railway projects. Holy Sites Tension: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned repeated Israeli extremist storming of Al Aqsa/Al Haram Al Sharif, calling it a violation of international law and urging firm international action. Trade and Tech: Jordanian fintech firms are joining the Money 20/20 Europe mission in Amsterdam, while Amman also secured a British smart-city certification for smarter municipal services. Regional Pressure on Shipping: With Hormuz disruption ongoing, Iraq is leaning on Aqaba again as cargo ships carrying food and industrial goods dock there.

Hormuz Pressure, Aqaba Pivot: Five cargo ships carrying food and industrial goods for Iraq have docked at Jordan’s Aqaba port despite ongoing Strait of Hormuz disruption, with 100,000 tons of vegetable oils already received and more shipments awaiting unloading—part of a wider shift as Iraq’s Gulf imports and oil exports have fallen sharply and Baghdad pushes Mediterranean and overland routes. Diplomatic Reassurance: Jordan’s Crown Prince Al Hussein reaffirmed continued support for Syria, Lebanon and Iraq, stressing de-escalation to restore regional stability. Humanitarian Push to Lebanon: Jordan’s JHCO sent a 25-truck relief convoy coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, Armed Forces and the UN World Food Programme, delivering infant formula and medicine to support healthcare and child needs. Trade and Growth: Industry and Trade Minister Yarub Qudah urged deeper EU ties as Jordan’s exports to EU markets rose 72.3% in the first two months of the year. Smart City Milestone: Amman secured British quality certification for smart and sustainable cities, backing its push for technology-driven urban services.

Humanitarian Push: Jordan’s Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) has dispatched a 25-truck relief convoy to Lebanon, coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, the Armed Forces and the UN World Food Programme, carrying infant formula and medicine to support healthcare and child needs. Housing & Rights: A new UN-Habitat report launched at the World Urban Forum in Baku argues housing solutions work best when communities help shape them, pointing to upgrades of informal areas rather than eviction. Trade Boost: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah says Jordan’s exports to the EU jumped 72.3% in the first two months of 2026, urging stronger marketing and private-sector ties. City Tech: Amman has earned a British smart-city certification for smart and sustainable urban management. World Cup Focus: Jordan’s national team begins its final World Cup preparations in Amman before friendlies and a training base in the US. Weather Watch: Mild, sunnier conditions are expected through the weekend, with intermittent dust and morning fog risks.

Middle East Tensions: Trump says US-Iran peace talks are “right on the borderline,” warning Washington will move quickly if Tehran’s answers aren’t “100 percent good,” while Iran insists “all paths remain open” as Israel raises its military alert to the highest level. Gulf Energy Shock: With the Strait of Hormuz under pressure, analysts warn the region is being forced into a new overland energy map as shipping delays and higher freight costs ripple into fuel, petrochemicals and food. UAE-Iraq Drone Row: The UAE says drones targeting Barakah’s nuclear plant came from Iraqi territory, prompting fresh demands for Baghdad to stop attacks from its soil—while Iraq has yet to respond. Jordan Smart Cities: Amman becomes the first capital to win British smart-city certification under ISO 37106, boosting its push for data-driven public services. Local Security & Health: Jordan shot down an unidentified drone over Jerash; meanwhile, it bans entry from DRC and Uganda for 30 days over Ebola concerns.

IKEA Price Lock: IKEA Jordan has launched its new catalogue, promising prices on hundreds of items will stay stable until the end of August—“they can only go down, never up”—alongside lower offers and flexible financing. Regional Security: Jordan’s Armed Forces shot down an unidentified drone over Jerash’s Balila area, with no casualties and only minor damage reported. US-Iran Tensions: President Trump said Iran talks are “right on the borderline,” warning Washington will move quickly if responses aren’t “100 percent” satisfactory, while Iran’s IRGC warns any renewed war could spread beyond the region. Jordan-Europe Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met Portugal’s leaders in Lisbon, discussing deeper cooperation and de-escalation efforts, including plans for direct flights between Amman and Lisbon. Public Health & Travel: Jordan temporarily banned entry from DRC and Uganda for 30 days over Ebola concerns. Digital Payments Push: Valu Jordan and MadfoatCom signed a partnership to let customers settle dues via eFAWATEERcom.

Aerial Security: Jordan’s Armed Forces say they shot down an unidentified drone that entered the airspace over northern Jerash, near Balila, with no casualties and only minor damage; investigations are ongoing. Regional Tensions: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any renewed US attacks could widen the conflict “beyond the region,” as the Middle East crisis remains live with fresh threats and counter-threats. Foreign Policy: Jordan and Portugal are pushing for direct Amman–Lisbon flights, while Ayman Safadi also met Qatar’s PM to discuss de-escalation efforts. Investment & Tech: Saudi and Jordanian investment funds signed an MoU to target long-term projects in infrastructure, healthcare, tech and tourism; Valu Jordan and MadfoatCom also partnered to let customers pay bills via eFAWATEERcom. Health & Weather: Jordan temporarily bans entry from DRC and Uganda over Ebola concerns; meanwhile, milder, more humid conditions are settling in, with dust risks in exposed areas.

Tech & Jobs: Ghost officially opened its headquarters in Irbid, pitching mobile/web development, ERP builds, and marketing services after onboarding 12 clients. Christian Heritage: King Abdullah inaugurated the Baptism Site International Orthodox University at Al-Maghtas and directed government support for the “Baptism 2030” commemoration plan. Gaza Humanitarian Pressure: Indonesia urged Israel to release all ships and crew of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 and keep aid flowing under international law, while Jordan also backed diplomatic channels to free Indonesian citizens. Regional Diplomacy: Ayman Safadi met Portugal’s leaders in Lisbon and pushed for stronger ties, including possible direct flights between Amman and Lisbon. Security Tensions: Kata’ib Hezbollah warned Jordan over US-Israeli reconnaissance missions launched from Jordanian soil. Water & Infrastructure: EBRD is considering up to $54m for expanding Irbid’s Shallala wastewater plant. Weather: Dusty, windy conditions continue across the Kingdom.

Media Freedom Push: The EU Delegation in Jordan says independent, professional journalism is “oxygen of democracy,” backing community outlets like Radio Al-Balad and AmmanNet while warning that regulation, money pressure, and digital-era safety risks can still squeeze the sector. Gaza Humanitarian Relief: Jordan University Hospital admitted two Gaza children for heart and blood disorders under the Jordanian Medical Corridor, as Jordan keeps evacuations moving. Regional Security Tensions: Kata’ib Hezbollah warned Amman over US-Israeli reconnaissance missions launched from Jordan, saying patience is “starting to run out,” while Jordan also condemned drone attacks tied to Iraq’s airspace aimed at Saudi Arabia. Diplomacy & Trade: Deputy PM/Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met Portugal’s FM in Lisbon to expand cooperation, and Jordan and Portugal flagged broader regional de-escalation efforts. Weather Watch: Dusty, moderate conditions continue across the Kingdom, with reduced visibility on desert roads and gusty winds expected. Water & Infrastructure: EBRD is considering up to $54m for expanding Irbid’s Shallala wastewater plant, aiming to restore compliance and boost capacity.

Media Freedom Push: The EU Delegation says independent, professional journalism is “oxygen of democracy,” backing Jordan’s community media and noting progress alongside risks like self-censorship, funding strain, and online safety gaps. Rights & Business Framework: The NCHR and UNDP launched a national dialogue on business and human rights, moving Jordan toward systematic implementation of UN guiding principles. Tribal Engagement: Crown Prince Hussein met Ajarma tribe dignitaries, stressing National Service and vocational training to equip youth for future jobs. Security Tensions: Iraqi militant group Kataib Hezbollah hinted it could target Jordan, warning “patience is starting to run out” over Jordan’s backing for the US. Diplomacy & Holy Sites: King Abdullah accepted new ambassadors’ credentials and inaugurated Baptism Site International Orthodox University, directing government support for a 2030 commemoration plan. Water Security Deal: Jordan and the US signed a $78.2m agreement to ready infrastructure for the National Water Carrier. Local Justice: Public Security clarified an Irbid video showing an assault on a minor, saying the suspect was arrested and referred to prosecutors.

Water Security Push: Jordan and the US signed a $78.2m deal to ready the National Water Carrier system—building reservoirs, pipelines, leak monitoring and network upgrades so extra water can actually reach homes and farms. Regional Tensions: Jordan condemned drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant, calling them violations of sovereignty and international law, as diplomats stress solidarity and possible responses. Wastewater Upgrade: The EBRD is considering up to $54m for expanding the Shalala wastewater treatment plant in Irbid, aiming to restore compliance and boost capacity for decades ahead. Ports & Business: Aqaba Container Terminal named Jose Rueda as its new CEO, while MS Pharma announced an investment from Olayan Financing to accelerate growth across MENA. Media & Society: The EU backed independent community media in Amman, saying it’s “oxygen of democracy,” as Radio Al-Balad and AmmanNet renewed their international trust certification. Weather Watch: Strong winds and dusty conditions are expected Monday, with reduced visibility in some areas.

Regional Diplomacy: Jordan’s top officials are pushing for stability as China postpones a second Arab summit, citing regional instability, while the King says any deal to end the war must guarantee Arab states’ security. UAE Security: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned a drone attack near the Barakah nuclear plant, reaffirming Jordan’s solidarity with the UAE as the UAE calls it a “dangerous escalation.” Water Security: Jordan and the US signed a $78.2m agreement to prepare national water networks to receive extra supplies from the National Water Carrier. Economy & Reserves: Foreign reserves rose to $27.051bn by end-April, with gold holdings climbing, and the Cabinet approved merging civil and military consumer corporations to curb inflation and improve service efficiency. Media & Society: The EU backed independent media as “oxygen of democracy,” while community outlets in Jordan renewed international journalism trust. Yemen Humanitarian Move: The UN and EU welcomed a Yemen prisoner exchange of over 1,600 detainees after talks in Amman.

Media Freedom & Community Radio: The EU Delegation in Amman said independent, professional media is “oxygen of democracy,” backing freedom of expression while warning that regulation, economic pressure and online safety risks can still push outlets toward self-censorship. Banking & ESG: Jordan Ahli Bank released its 2025 Sustainability Report, its ninth straight disclosure, adding climate-related reporting aligned with IFRS sustainability standards. Infrastructure Quality: The Ministry of Public Works launched new Ma’an and Madaba central laboratories to speed testing and raise standards for national projects. City Services: Greater Amman Municipality rolled out an online valet and parking permit system to curb unregulated services and improve traffic oversight. Weather Watch: Temperatures rise Sunday with dusty conditions and reduced visibility risks on desert roads. Yemen Diplomacy: UN chief António Guterres praised Jordan-hosted talks that produced an agreement to release more than 1,600 detainees, the biggest swap since the conflict began.

Yemen Prison Swap: UN chief António Guterres praised Jordan for hosting talks that produced the release of more than 1,600 conflict-related detainees—the biggest such exchange since the war began—urging fast implementation with the ICRC so families can reunite. Diplomacy in Motion: Türkiye, Oman and Saudi Arabia also welcomed the Amman-brokered deal, framing it as a humanitarian step that could revive wider peace efforts. Media & Society: In Amman, the EU Delegation backed independent journalism as “oxygen of democracy,” while Jordan’s community media leaders said platforms like Radio Al-Balad and AmmanNet have again earned Reporters Without Borders’ Journalism Trust certification. Local Economy & Youth: The Tawasol 2026 forum opened at the Dead Sea, focusing on tech and the gig economy, while Jordanian youth in the US launched an initiative to promote Jordanian products during the FIFA World Cup. Independence Day Plans: The Culture Ministry announced nationwide 80th Independence Day celebrations from May 23–25, with concerts, heritage shows, bazaars and fireworks.

Yemen Prisoner Deal: The UN-backed agreement reached in Amman calls for the release of more than 1,600 conflict-related detainees, with families set to be reunited as talks—mediated by the UN and the ICRC—move from lists and logistics to implementation. Regional Diplomacy: Türkiye, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar all welcomed the step, praising Jordan for hosting the negotiations and urging momentum toward a broader political settlement. Jordan Economy Watch: The Amman Stock Exchange logged a weekly uptick, with trading volume and the general index rising, while industrial production and inflation data point to a still-mixed economic picture. Trade & Logistics: Customs clearance firms processed 310,567 declarations since the year began, and Karameh border freight surged after extended operating hours. Energy & Industry: Risha gas output reportedly jumped sharply after capacity expansion, while a major $1.1bn green ammonia project in Aqaba moves forward. Media & Society: The EU Delegation highlighted independent media as “oxygen of democracy,” as Jordan’s community media network convened in Amman.

Yemen Prisoner Swap: Yemen’s government and the Houthis have agreed to release more than 1,600 detainees in the biggest exchange since the war began in 2014, signed in Amman after 14 weeks of UN-backed talks with the ICRC overseeing implementation; the Houthis will free 580 prisoners (including seven Saudis and 20 Sudanese) while the government releases 1,100 Houthi detainees, with further releases and mutual prison visits expected. Regional Diplomacy: Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar all welcomed the deal as a humanitarian step and a chance to build momentum toward a political solution. Jordan Watch: Jordan also reported economic updates this week, including industrial production rising 2.5% in March and inflation reaching 1.65% over the first four months of 2026. Media & Society: The EU Delegation highlighted independent media as “oxygen of democracy,” backing Jordan’s community media push and noting a five-point rise in the RSF press freedom index.