Aqaba: The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) has entered into a cooperation agreement with PetraRide, a specialist in smart transportation applications, aimed at enhancing service quality for citizens and improving transportation efficiency within the city.
According to Jordan News Agency, ASEZA Chairperson Shadi Majali outlined the agreement as part of Aqaba's ongoing development transformation, aligning with the authority's new strategy launched in May 2024. This strategy is focused on turning Aqaba into a globally integrated destination, leveraging modern management and smart technologies in accordance with the national economic modernization vision.
Majali highlighted that the initiation of the first smart transportation project underscores ASEZA's dedication to digital transformation and public service enhancement, particularly services impacting daily life. He stressed that smart transportation is crucial for improving quality of life, increasing efficiency, and bolstering tourism and investment-core elements of the new strategy.
The initiative aims to foster stronger public-private sector integration, a key goal within ASEZA's strategy to enhance development partnerships and establish regional leadership in logistics and transport services. Majali also announced plans for two additional agreements to be signed by year's end, as part of efforts to realize Aqaba's strategic vision that prioritizes citizens and visitors.
PetraRide Director Iyad Bustanji remarked that the agreement signifies the launch of Aqaba's first official smart transportation system. The system will include a digital application enabling users to track drivers, view arrival times, make electronic payments, and provide service feedback in real-time.
The agreement is anticipated to ease congestion, improve commuting for students and workers, generate new jobs in the transport and logistics sector, and reinforce Aqaba's reputation as a smart city that is both citizen- and investor-friendly.