AGP Executive Report

Regional Security: A fresh Houthi strike hit Riyadh airport on Sunday, a day after an attack killed at least 12 people and injured 309; an Indian national later died of injuries. A Jordanian father of two was among the initial victims. Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned the attacks and reaffirmed Jordan’s support for Saudi Arabia. Amman Finance: The Cabinet approved JD400 million in Greater Amman Municipality sukuk, with a five-year term and projected savings of JD70 million. Royal Diplomacy: King Abdullah arrived in Malaysia for a two-day state visit focused on longstanding ties, including education and trade. Property Market: Iraqis led foreign buyers in Jordan by investment value, purchasing JD70.3 million in property during the first nine months of 2026. Gaza Aid: Jordan’s humanitarian operation in Gaza has reached its third year, adapting deliveries as access remains difficult.

Riyadh Attack: A Jordanian was among 12 people killed when a missile struck King Khalid International Airport; four other Jordanians were injured, with two still hospitalized. Jordan condemned the attack, expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and is arranging the victim’s return. Severe Weather: Heavy rain, thunderstorms and possible hail are forecast across parts of Jordan, with flash-flood warnings for valleys and low-lying areas. Authorities urge people to stay clear of flood channels. Diplomacy: King Abdullah begins a two-day state visit to Malaysia, where talks are expected to build on more than six decades of ties, including education cooperation. Infrastructure: Jordan’s new Aqaba–Shidiya–Ma’an railway project is advancing, with officials pointing to stronger port links, logistics and potential connections to wider regional trade routes.

Regional Security: King Abdullah condemned attacks on Saudi airports and reaffirmed Jordan’s solidarity with Riyadh after a strike on King Khalid International Airport injured several people and disrupted operations. Public Opinion: A University of Jordan poll found 66% of respondents had high or moderate trust in the government, while 56% said the country was moving in a positive direction. Amman: One man was killed and two injured in a Friday brawl in central Amman; police arrested the alleged shooter and several others. Investment: Social Security Investment Fund assets rose 8% to JD20.1 billion by the end of September, while Amman’s industrial exports climbed 6.5% year-on-year to JD5.977 billion in the first nine months. Rail Links: Jordan’s new Aqaba–Shidiya–Ma’an freight railway could form part of a broader network connecting the Kingdom to regional routes and potentially the India–Middle East–Europe corridor. Volleyball: Oman beat Kuwait 3–1 in Amman, handing Kuwait its third straight loss at the Arab championship.

Security: Jordanian authorities detained a suspected ShinyHunters cybercrime group member, who is reportedly helping investigators identify other suspects. The US Embassy also urged Americans across the region to stay alert amid Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and possible travel disruptions. Palestinian Issue: Prince Hassan said lasting peace requires resolving the conflict, not managing it, and reiterated that the West Bank and Gaza are occupied territories. Water: Jordan signed an agreement with US firm Rainmaker to use rain-enhancement technology in northern catchments, aiming to support reservoirs, agriculture and water security. Economy: Foreign property purchases rose 17% in value in the first nine months of 2026, while new incentives aim to attract vehicle assembly and manufacturing investment in Zarqa. Aqaba: Queen Rania opened the “Layered Becoming” exhibition, featuring more than 140 works by 10 Jordanian, Arab and international artists. Transport: Jordan is preparing to launch its Masar electronic toll-payment service on the Al-Harrana–Omari road, allowing drivers to pay without stopping.

Digital Roads: Jordan plans to launch its Masar e-payment service on the Al-Harrana–Omari toll road on Sunday, allowing drivers to pay automatically through a linked wallet. Water Security: The Jordan Valley Authority signed an agreement with U.S. firm Rainmaker to enhance rainfall in northern catchments and support water supplies for communities and agriculture. Investment: More than 40 projects worth over $15 billion are set to be presented at the Jordan-EU Investment Conference on November 19, spanning technology, energy, industry, logistics and water security. Property Market: The value of real estate bought by non-Jordanians rose 17% to JD168.3 million in the first nine months of 2026, even as the number of transactions dipped 1%. Regional Diplomacy: Prince Hassan said lasting peace requires resolving—not merely managing—the Palestinian conflict, and stressed that the West Bank and Gaza are occupied territories. Transport Links: Jordan and the UAE have begun work on a $2.5 billion railway linking Aqaba with Shidiya and Ma’an, aimed at improving freight and port efficiency.

Water Security: Jordan Valley Authority signed a deal with U.S. firm Rainmaker to enhance rainfall in northern Jordan, targeting the Al-Wehdah and Kufranja catchments to bolster water supplies for homes, farms and reservoirs. Investment: More than 40 opportunities worth over $15 billion will be presented at the Jordan-EU conference on November 19. The government says it wants investment to reach governorates beyond Amman; 338 international participants have registered so far. Air Travel: Air Arabia will launch four weekly Sharjah–Amman City Airport flights on November 15, adding to its Queen Alia service. Wizz Air’s planned Amman operations are affected by an EU aviation safety warning on Jordanian airspace. Regional Affairs: Prince Hassan said peace efforts are obstructed by the absence of an Israeli government willing to accept a just settlement, and stressed that the West Bank and Gaza are occupied territories. Royal Court: A decree appointed Faisal Fayez Senate president from October 25 and Yasseen Khayyat as a senator, effective October 8.

Investment: Jordan will present more than 40 opportunities worth about $15 billion at its November 19 EU conference; 338 participants from 198 international companies have registered. The government says it will steer investment toward governorates, with energy and mining projects accounting for $7.1 billion. Air Links: Air Arabia plans four weekly flights from Sharjah to Amman City Airport from November 15, adding a second Amman airport to its Sharjah network. Palestinian Issue: Prince Hassan said peace remains blocked by the absence of an Israeli government willing to pursue it, arguing the conflict is being managed rather than resolved. Weather: Showers and thunderstorms may spread across Jordan, with instability expected to widen on Sunday. Consumer Protection: Olive oil producers and authorities are stepping up checks against fraud ahead of the harvest season. Senate: Royal decrees appointed Faisal Fayez as Senate president from October 25 and Yasseen Khayyat as a senator from October 8.

Investment: Jordan will present nearly $15 billion in projects at a November 19 conference with the EU, including $7.1 billion in energy and mining opportunities. Separately, work is advancing on a $2.5 billion railway linking Aqaba with industrial hubs in Shidiyeh and Ma’an. Public Safety: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered the replacement of unsafe heaters ahead of winter and stricter checks on retailers and factories. A nationwide labour inspection campaign targeting violations involving non-Jordanian workers is set to begin today. Regional Affairs: Jordan condemned Houthi attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia, voicing solidarity with Riyadh. Crown Prince Hussein also urged international efforts to ease regional tensions at the MED9 summit in Croatia. Consumers: Olive oil producers and authorities are coordinating inspections and legal action against fraud as the pressing season approaches. Digital Services: Electronic departure gates are now operating at Amman Civil Airport, with plans to expand digital travel services.

Regional Diplomacy: Crown Prince Hussein urged stronger efforts to ease tensions and protect freedom of navigation at the MED9 summit in Croatia, highlighting the Iran war’s impact on Jordan and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi also discussed regional developments and closer ties with EU officials, ahead of a Jordan-EU investment conference on November 19. Saudi Arabia Solidarity: Jordan condemned Houthi attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia that killed three people and injured dozens, reaffirming support for the kingdom. Winter Safety: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered continued replacement of unsafe heaters and tougher inspections of sellers and manufacturers ahead of winter. Travel and Investment: Electronic departure gates are now operating at Amman Civil Airport as Jordan expands digital travel services. The Cabinet also approved incentives for vehicle assembly and manufacturing in Zarqa, tied to investment, local production and jobs for Jordanians. Aqaba Rail Link: Jordan and the UAE have launched a $2.5 billion railway project linking Aqaba with key industrial hubs, aiming to improve port efficiency and regional supply chains.

Rail & trade push: Jordan’s Aqaba–Al-Shidiyeh–Maan railway project (403 km) moves into implementation, backed by a $2.5bn UAE-Jordan investment, with economists saying it will cut transport costs, boost supply chains, and strengthen Aqaba and Maan as logistics hubs. Investment incentives: The Cabinet approved incentives for vehicle manufacturing and assembly in the Zarqa Development Zone, with bigger benefits for CKD/SKD projects tied to local assembly stages and job creation for Jordanians. Tourism drive: Jordan is stepping up tourism infrastructure and services to attract Chinese visitors, including Chinese-language signage and guide training, plus plans for direct Amman–Beijing flights. Economy watch: The World Bank kept Jordan’s growth forecasts at 2.7% for 2026 and 2.9% for 2027, while the Jordan Strategy Forum reported a 21.9% jump in investor confidence in Q2. Urban planning debate: Amman’s land-use challenge is in focus as experts discuss how Regulation 81 could shape future growth, with 62% of municipal land still undeveloped. Regional solidarity: Jordan condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and reiterated support for Saudi-led efforts toward a political settlement in Yemen.

Transport & Investment: The Cabinet approved incentives for vehicle assembly and manufacturing projects in the Zarqa Development Zone, including electricity and land-price subsidies, tax exemptions, and conditions tied to local jobs. Mega-Projects: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan said the Aqaba–Shidiya–Maan railway is now in its implementation phase, with the $2.5bn line expected to boost southern logistics and connect Aqaba to wider regional routes. Tourism Push: Jordan is upgrading tourism infrastructure to attract Chinese visitors, including Chinese-speaking guide training, Chinese road signs, and preparations for direct Amman–Beijing flights and Chinese New Year events. Economy Watch: The World Bank kept Jordan’s growth forecasts at 2.7% for 2026 and 2.9% for 2027, citing resilience amid regional shocks. Finance & Confidence: Jordan’s Investor Confidence Index rose 21.9% in Q2 2026, while the GAIF conference opened at the Dead Sea with Jordan taking over the Arab insurance presidency. Public Safety: One person died and 40 were injured after a bus overturned on Amman’s Airport Road. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan condemned continued Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and reiterated support for Saudi-led Yemen efforts.

Jordan-UAE Rail Push: King Abdullah II and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled broke ground on the $2.5bn, 403km Aqaba–Al-Shidiyeh–Maan railway, aimed at cutting freight costs and boosting phosphate and potash exports. Aviation Security Shock: Reports say Israel was ready to shoot down a Flydubai jet after an Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a crash axe and tried to crash the aircraft toward Tel Aviv; the plane diverted to Tabuk after passengers and crew subdued him. Regional Tensions Over Syria: Syria accused Israel of building the “Sufa-53” defensive line along the occupied Golan, with Jordan and Qatar also voicing concerns. Local Economy Watch: Jordan’s Investor Confidence Index rose 21.9% in Q2 to 186.6 points, with economic activity up sharply. Amman Daily Life: Greater Amman Municipality issued emergency measures ahead of expected rain and warned residents to avoid valleys and protect drainage systems.

Aviation Security Shock: Israel says it was ready to shoot down a FlyDubai plane after a cockpit attack, as investigators and partners widen the probe into Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami and whether he acted alone or with help. Regional Diplomacy: King Abdullah II and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled witnessed the groundbreaking of the $2.5bn Aqaba–Al-Shidiya–Maan railway, aimed at boosting phosphate and potash exports and cutting transport costs. Local Governance & Weather Readiness: Greater Amman Municipality issued emergency measures ahead of expected rain, urging residents to avoid valleys, prevent drainage blockages, and report incidents via the unified contact center. Economy & Business: Amman Stock Exchange closed higher on Monday, with the ASE index up 0.26% and trading volume at JD20.8m. Public Safety Crackdown: Amman Municipality shut down 30 illegal parking-reservation sites in a two-day sweep, detaining unlicensed valet workers and seizing equipment. Sports: Kuwait opens the Arab Men’s Volleyball Championship in Amman today against Bahrain, with Jordan hosting the six-team tournament through Oct. 15.

Aviation Security in Focus: Israel ordered a comprehensive security review of flights to Israel after a flydubai cockpit attack, as reports say the Omani co-pilot planned to crash into Ben Gurion and that multiple detection failures helped him board. Cybercrime Crackdown: Jordan detained a suspected ShinyHunters figure, “Rey,” who is now cooperating with the FBI after the group’s extortion and a major hack of FBIJobs.gov. Jordan-Syria Tensions: Jordan condemned Israel’s “Sofa 53” work in Quneitra, calling it a breach of the 1974 disengagement line and urging international action to halt violations. Local Governance & Services: RTA said it completed a 1km road expansion in Al Mizhar 4 in Dubai to cut travel time and ease congestion, while Jordan’s VTC launched the 2026–2027 training year with 5,134 trainees. Culture & Innovation: Amman Design Week returned after seven years with “Accumulations,” and Jordan ranked fifth in the Arab world in Arcif scientific journal and citation indicators.

Jordan-Israel Tensions: Jordan condemned Israel’s resumption of work on the “Sufa 53 Line” in Quneitra, calling it a breach of the 1974 disengagement framework and international law, while Syria also denounced the move. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met Yemen’s FM Afrah Al Zouba, who delivered a letter to King Abdullah from Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council chairman, as both sides discussed activating consultations and higher committee talks. Government Performance: RASED said the Hasaan government completed 20% of Economic Modernisation Vision 2026 projects, while a separate RASED assessment found most MPs and parties back some form of Cabinet reshuffle. Aviation Security Shock: Reports say UAE investigators shared Flydubai flight details with Israel ahead of the attempted cockpit attack, as questions grow over how the Omani co-pilot boarded and what he planned. Digital Services Push: JFDA launched a pilot of 35 e-services for food, drugs and medical devices ahead of a wider rollout. Youth & Culture: Jordan opened the Arab Capitals Youth Meeting in Amman focused on e-sports and creative thinking; King and Queen visited an Aqaba school to mark World Teachers’ Day. Economy & Jobs: World Bank is nearing approval of an 18-month extension for Jordan’s Youth, Technology and Jobs Project, with more training and digital skills support.

Aviation Safety Watch: Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission says air traffic is normal and Jordanian airspace remains safe despite an EU aviation advisory, with more than 32 airlines still operating scheduled flights. Cybercrime Probe: Reuters reports a suspected ShinyHunters member, Saif al-Din Khader (“Rey”), was detained in Jordan and is cooperating with the FBI to help identify other hackers. Health Access: The Ministry of Health launched “Whats-Thru” at four Amman comprehensive health centers, letting chronic-disease patients submit documents via WhatsApp, get meds prepared in advance, and collect through a dedicated counter. Local Economy: Jordan’s GDP growth hit 3% in Q2 2026, driven mainly by manufacturing and agriculture, while Jordan Kuwait Bank posted JOD 57.6m net profit for H1 2026. Industry & Trade: Amman Chamber says certificates of origin for exports rose 20.7% to JD1.188b in nine months, and industrial exports reached JD5.17b in seven months. Transport Oversight: The Land Transport Regulatory Authority says it will tighten app-based taxi compliance, with inspections starting Oct 7 and penalties tied to company guarantees.