Etihad Rail to Tender $2.3bn Jordan Phosphate Railway in 2026

In a significant move to bolster Jordan's mineral export infrastructure, Etihad Rail, the UAE's national railway developer and operator, is set to invite tenders in early 2026 for the construction of a 360-kilometre railway network. This ambitious project aims to connect Jordan's key phosphate and potash mining sites in Al-Shidiya and Ghor Al-Safi to the Port of Aqaba, enhancing the country's logistical capabilities and export efficiency.

Strategic Collaboration Between Jordan and the UAE

The railway project is part of a broader $5.5 billion investment package agreed upon by Jordan and the UAE in November 2023. Under this collaboration, Etihad Rail will undertake the design, construction, and operation of the new railway line. The initiative also includes agreements with the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company and the Arab Potash Company to transport approximately 16 million tonnes of minerals annually to Aqaba, significantly boosting Jordan's export capacity.

Project Timeline and Scope

Detailed studies on the railway alignment and handling requirements for potash and phosphate are expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Subsequently, construction tenders will be issued in early 2026, with the railway anticipated to commence operations by 2030. The project encompasses the development of loading and unloading terminals in Aqaba, Ghor Al-Safi, and Al-Shidiya, as well as the manufacturing and supply of a fleet of trains designed to international standards.

Economic and Logistical Impact

The establishment of this railway is poised to transform Jordan's mineral transportation landscape, reducing reliance on road transport and enhancing the efficiency of mineral exports. By facilitating the movement of 16 million tonnes of phosphate and potash annually, the railway will not only improve logistical operations but also create job opportunities in the transport and mining sectors, contributing to the Kingdom's economic development.

Strengthening Regional Ties

This project underscores the deepening strategic partnership between Jordan and the UAE, reflecting a shared commitment to economic growth and infrastructure development. By leveraging Etihad Rail's expertise in railway construction and operation, the initiative aims to establish a robust and efficient rail network that meets international standards, setting the stage for future advancements in the region's transport sector.