Amman: Experts in the field of information technology have emphasized that Amman's selection by the Council of Arab Ministers of Communications and Information as the Arab Digital Capital for 2025 is a significant national and regional achievement, strengthening Jordan's role as a leading hub for digital transformation in the Middle East.
According to Jordan News Agency, this landmark decision, announced at the 28th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Communications and Information held in Cairo, Egypt, is a recognition of Jordan's ongoing efforts in developing its telecommunications and technology sectors. It underscores the nation's commitment to digital transformation and the establishment of a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation.
Nidal Bitar, CEO of the ICT Association of Jordan (int@j), described the designation of Amman as the Arab Digital Capital for 2025 as a notable achievement for both Jordan and the broader Arab region. He highlighted that this recognition reflects the combined efforts of Jordan's public and private sectors in building smart infrastructure and developing innovative digital services. It also acknowledges Jordan's leadership in adopting cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and fintech to achieve sustainable development goals.
Bitar noted that the designation would enhance global investor confidence in Jordan's ICT sector, particularly given the country's highly skilled workforce and supportive regulatory environment. He emphasized that Amman will serve as a platform for advancing collaboration among Arab nations in areas like cybersecurity, financial technologies, and smart cities. For the successful realization of this initiative, Bitar stressed the need to expand smart city projects, including intelligent transportation systems, smart street lighting, waste management solutions, eco-friendly data centers, and AI-supported tourism applications that highlight Jordan's historical landmarks.
He also called for further support for technology-focused business incubators, as well as creating connections with regional funding opportunities, particularly for initiatives in smart agriculture and e-health. Bitar further emphasized the importance of enhanced collaboration between the government, private sector, and academic institutions to craft adaptable policies that will drive digital transformation and keep pace with evolving technological trends. He advocated for specialized training programs in areas such as big data, blockchain, and AI, developed in partnership with universities and global tech firms.
In a similar vein, Abdul Hamid Al-Rahamna, an IT consultant and expert, stated that Amman's selection as the Arab Digital Capital for 2025 is a result of Jordan's ongoing efforts to advance its information and communications technology infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of preserving this achievement through strategic pillars, including the development of a clear digital vision aligned with His Majesty King Abdullah II's aspirations for a digitally attractive investment environment. This vision should include the strengthening of high-speed internet networks, the expansion of data centers and cloud computing, and the transformation of Amman into a smart city through IoT and AI technologies.
Al-Rahamna also highlighted the necessity of a highly skilled, well-trained workforce, robust cybersecurity practices, privacy protection, and the formulation of laws and policies that support e-government services and digital infrastructure.
Dr. Omar Al-Zoubi, Dean of the Artificial Intelligence College at Al-Balqa Applied University, noted that this achievement reflects Jordan's sustained efforts in fostering digital transformation and promoting a knowledge-driven economy. He emphasized that Amman's advanced digital infrastructure and innovation-driven ecosystem now serve as a regional model, reinforcing Jordan's commitment to leading the digital transformation in the Arab world and promoting regional cooperation in fields like AI, technology, and digital entrepreneurship.
Al-Zoubi outlined several key areas critical to the success of Amman's role as the Digital Capital of 2025. He stressed the importance of developing robust digital infrastructure, enhancing high-speed internet networks, supporting 5G technologies, and ensuring that Amman's digital environment is capable of meeting the demands of the digital age. Additionally, he highlighted the need to support digital startups through a conducive ecosystem that offers financial support, streamlines legal procedures, and fosters public-private collaboration to drive innovation and create new economic opportunities.
Furthermore, Al-Zoubi pointed out that developing digital skills is pivotal to the success of this initiative. Investment in digital education and training programs will be crucial to preparing the local workforce to keep pace with technological advancements and lead the digital transformation effectively. He also noted the central role of universities in supporting Amman's ambition to become the Digital Capital. Universities can contribute by developing specialized academic programs in fields such as AI and cybersecurity, training graduates to drive the digital economy, and establishing research centers focused on innovation and technology. Collaboration with the public and private sectors, as well as organizing specialized conferences and business incubators, will further enhance the competitiveness of Jordan in the global digital arena.
Al-Zoubi stressed the critical importance of cybersecurity and data protection in ensuring the success of digital initiatives. He advocated for the development of policies and legislation that protect information security and build trust in the digital ecosystem, encouraging both individuals and institutions to adopt digital solutions without concerns over security risks. Al-Zoubi concluded by emphasizing that regional and international cooperation is key to accelerating digital transformation. Expanding partnerships with Arab and international stakeholders will facilitate knowledge exchange, enabling the adoption of the latest innovations and best practices in the field.
This recognition of Amman as Arab Digital Capital for 2025 provides a unique opportunity to showcase Jordan's digital potential and solidify its position as a regional center for innovation and technology. It is crucial for both the public and private sectors to collaborate in realizing this ambitious vision, making Amman a successful model for digital capitals across the Arab world.