AGP Executive Report

Digital Youth & Innovation: Ammon’s Ministries of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and Youth signed an MoU to expand “Future Stations” in youth centers nationwide, aiming to boost digital skills in areas like AI, programming, and cybersecurity. Public Transport Modernization: Jordan’s Transport Ministry signed the second phase agreement of the Regular Transport Project to build an integrated, tech-powered public transport network across governorates, with LTRC oversight and daily operations by the Integrated Transport Company. Research & International Cooperation: The Higher Council for Science and Technology met South Africa’s ambassador to discuss cooperation in science, research partnerships, and innovation management, including the Scientific Research and Innovation Support Fund. Astronomy for Jordan Skies: The Jordanian Astronomical Society says Mars and Uranus will appear in conjunction in Taurus early Saturday, with best viewing around 4:15 AM. Education Snapshot: Jordan’s Tawjihi exams begin with 56,376 students at 749 centers, with strict reminders about no electronics and early arrival. Science & Industry Growth: Agriculture reported strong Q1 2026 performance, reaching 6.8% growth and a record 6.1% GDP contribution, while industrial exports rose 9.1% to a record $3.9bn in the first four months.

Youth Digital Empowerment: Ammon’s ministries of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and Youth signed an MoU to integrate “Future Stations” into youth centers nationwide, aiming to boost digital skills in areas like AI, programming, and cybersecurity. Science & Innovation Showcase: More than 600 students presented 230 projects at the Jordan Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition at Al Hussein Technical University, spanning AI, robotics, renewable energy, biotech, and sustainability; top prize went to an AI-powered beehive monitoring system. Transport Modernization: Jordan signed the second phase of its Regular Transport Project to expand an integrated public transport network across governorates, moving toward smart operations and better commuter service. Astronomy for Jordan Skies: The Jordanian Astronomical Society says Mars and Uranus will appear in a close conjunction early Saturday, with best viewing around 4:15 AM. Education & Exams: 56,376 students are taking the Tawjihi General Secondary Education Certificate Examination, with the Mathematics exam scheduled for 10:00 AM. Agriculture Boost: Agriculture hit 6.8% growth in Q1 2026 and reached a record 6.1% GDP contribution, driven by productivity and export-focused programs.

Biometric Banking Security: BIO-key will join an invitation-only cybersecurity and identity workshop in Amman on July 6, where Jordan’s banks will discuss passwordless authentication and biometric identity to strengthen cyber defenses. Local Science & Innovation: More than 600 Jordanian students showcased AI, robotics, renewable energy, biotech and sustainability at the Jordan Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, with an AI beehive monitoring system winning top prize. Smart Transport Push: Jordan signed phase two of its inter-governorate public transport project to move toward an integrated, scheduled network using modern technologies, aiming to cut congestion and improve safety. Amman Digital & Sustainability Goals: A second Voluntary Local Review highlights progress across smart transport, digital transformation, waste management and climate action as Amman works toward SDGs by 2030. Health Tech Integration: Tandem’s t:slim X2 insulin pump is now compatible with Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus CGM in five European countries, expanding closed-loop options for users. Independence in Tokyo: Jordan marked its 80th independence anniversary with a Tokyo gala reception focused on modernization, innovation and deeper Jordan–Japan cooperation. Trade & Industry: Irbid’s industrial exports hit $590.1m in the first half of 2026 (+8.9%), led by leather/knitwear and strong gains in chemicals, food/agriculture and medical supplies.

Jordan–Brazil Trade Push: Jordan Chamber of Commerce chief Khalil Haj Tawfiq met the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce to expand Jordan–Brazil ties, with plans for a São Paulo forum keynote (Aug. 25) and a Jordan exhibition in Oct. 2026 covering sectors like food processing, construction, pharma, apparel and coffee. Marine Science in Aqaba: University of Jordan researchers say deep Gulf of Aqaba microorganisms produce natural compounds that can fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria, positioning Jordan’s marine biotechnology for new medicine development. Health Tech (Global, Jordan-relevant): Tandem Diabetes Care says its t:slim X2 insulin pump is now compatible with Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus CGM in the UK, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland and Italy, with more European rollouts planned later in 2026. DENZA Jordan Marketing: Bustami & Saheb Group appointed Sharx Marketing Agency to lead DENZA Jordan’s creative, social and digital communications as the premium mobility brand ramps up locally. Regional Development Finance: IFC appointed Jordanian Imad N. Fakhoury as Regional Vice President for the Middle East and Central Asia, effective July 1, to drive jobs and private capital across 21 countries. Disaster Response Tech: Jordanian search-and-rescue teams in Venezuela used camera-based locating to extract a child alive from rubble six days after twin earthquakes.

Marine Biotech in Aqaba: University of Jordan researchers say deep Gulf of Aqaba microorganisms can produce natural compounds active against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, pointing to new medicine leads from Jordan’s marine resources. Humanitarian Tech & Rescue: Jordan’s search-and-rescue teams in Venezuela used camera technology and thermal imaging to locate and extract a three-year-old boy from earthquake rubble after six days, then provided first aid and hospital transfer. FAO Drought Plan: FAO launched a Japanese-funded project with Jordan’s agriculture ministry to help drought-affected and refugee-hosting communities use climate-smart, agroecological practices in northern governorates. Industry & Exports: The Jordan Chamber of Industry reports industrial exports rose 9.1% in Jan–Apr 2026 to JD2.808bn, with gains across mining, construction, chemicals, and engineering/IT. Policy for Older People: The Phenix Center calls for a national minimum-income system for older Jordanians without pensions, warning of rising vulnerability as the population ages. Private Sector Leadership: IFC appointed Jordanian Imad N. Fakhoury as Regional Vice President for the Middle East and Central Asia, focused on job creation and mobilizing private capital.

Higher Education Signals: QS World University Rankings 2027 keep MIT on top, with Imperial and Stanford sharing second, but the big story is rising competition from universities in Asia and the Middle East as more schools break into the global top 20. Disaster Response Tech: Jordan’s international search and rescue team in Venezuela pulled a three-year-old from rubble in Caracas after six days, using specialized rescue gear and thermal imaging, then provided first aid before hospital transfer. Agriculture & Water Resilience: FAO launched a Japanese-funded drought resilience project in Jordan with the Ministry of Agriculture, targeting climate-smart practices and support for smallholders and refugee-host communities in northern governorates. Industry & Exports: The Jordan Chamber of Industry rolled out “Industrialist’s Compass” to help firms navigate trade rules like the EU’s carbon border adjustment, while reporting industrial exports up 9.1% in Jan–Apr 2026 to JD2.808bn. Urban Nature Planning: JCDCF and RSCN signed to create a 1,000-dunum ecological park in Amra City, designed to restore native vegetation and support migratory birds.

Amra City Eco-Park Deal: Jordan’s JCDCF and RSCN signed an agreement to create a 1,000-dunum ecological park as the centerpiece of the first phase of Amra City, with native trees, water features, and habitat restoration for migratory birds; construction is set to start in early July and finish within three years, with RSCN designing, building, and operating the site. Digital Tech Push: Crown Prince Al Hussein’s tech push is tied to national projects like the “Sanad” app, expanded digital signature services, and the “Siraj” education platform, alongside digital health and new government service centers aimed at faster, cheaper services and a stronger investment climate. Logistics & Industry Jobs: Jordan’s transport sector was highlighted as a key economic pillar at the Arab Union for Land Transport, with calls to modernize border and customs systems; separately, Zarqa Industrial Estate targets up to 530 firms and about 21,000 jobs as it positions itself as a green industrial hub. Orange Jordan at VivaTech: Orange Jordan took part in VivaTech 2026 in Paris to back startups and entrepreneurs, including a Demo Day for Orange-supported companies. Skywatching Moment: The Muharram Full Moon will peak early Tuesday (2:57 a.m. Jordan time), offering a clear astronomy event for people across the Kingdom.

Eco & Urban Planning: JCDCF and RSCN signed an agreement to create a major 1,000-dunum ecological park as the centerpiece of Amra City, with native planting, water features, rainwater harvesting, and a plan to restore vegetation and support migratory birds; construction is set to start early July with completion within three years. Transport & Trade: Jordan’s transport minister said the sector is a key economic pillar, pushing infrastructure, border-crossing upgrades, logistics corridors, and modernized customs to cut transit times and costs across the region. Industrial Growth: Jordan Industrial Estates Company outlined plans for Zarqa Industrial Estate to attract up to 530 firms and create about 21,000 jobs, positioning it as a green industrial hub aligned with the Economic Modernisation Vision. Digital Entrepreneurship: Orange Jordan took part in VivaTech 2026 in Paris, backing startups and running a Demo Day to connect Jordanian innovators with global partners. Astronomy for the Public: The Muharram Full Moon will peak early Tuesday (2:57 a.m. Jordan time), visible to the naked eye and timed for skywatchers and astrophotography. Disaster Response: Jordan’s International Search and Rescue team began heavy urban rescue operations in Venezuela after twin earthquakes, deploying doctors and specialized teams with advanced tools.

Digital Innovation in Jordan: Crown Prince Hussein is pushing a tech-and-AI agenda to turn Jordan into a regional innovation hub, with initiatives like the AI education assistant Siraj, the Jordan Digital Health Centre, digital signatures, and the unified Sanad platform. Startup Acceleration: Orange Jordan joined VivaTech 2026 in Paris, backing local startups such as LOGATTA and running a Demo Day to connect entrepreneurs with global partners. Energy & Water Resilience: Experts say renewable power, green hydrogen, and green ammonia can strengthen Jordan’s energy security and support the water, transport, and industrial economy, with renewables targeted to rise to 40% of electricity by 2035. Water Heritage Tourism: Ajloun launched “Ajloun, Land of Springs” to restore historic springs for eco-tourism while keeping them useful for irrigation. Disaster Response Tech: Jordan’s 100-member international search-and-rescue team deployed to Venezuela after twin earthquakes, using heavy urban USAR capabilities and specialized medical support. Public Health Warning: Gaza’s sanitation collapse is driving disease spikes, with aid agencies citing rising skin infections and sewage/water contamination risks.

Jordan Tech & Innovation: Crown Prince Hussein is pushing Jordan to become a regional tech and innovation hub, with AI, digital government services, and future-technology investment—backed by the National Council for Future Technology and flagship projects like Siraj, the Jordan Digital Health Centre, digital signatures, and Sanad. Clean Energy & Water Security: Experts say renewable energy, green hydrogen, and green ammonia can strengthen energy security and support Jordan’s water, transport, industrial, and digital economy, while renewables already supply about 27% of electricity and targets aim higher by 2035. Tourism & Heritage Infrastructure: Ajloun launched “Ajloun, Land of Springs” to restore historic springs, protect renewable water resources, and turn them into tourism trails without losing their irrigation role. Disaster Response: Jordan’s 100-member International Search and Rescue team deployed to earthquake-struck Venezuela, operating across three Caracas sites with doctors and specialized rescue tools. Global Tech in Jordan’s Orbit: Hikma highlighted healthcare resilience and MENA growth priorities at WEF, focusing on supply chain security and rebuilding infrastructure in tough regions. Humanitarian Tech Trend: A University of Texas jacket prototype can harvest drinking water from thin air—up to 1.5 pints/day—using moisture-collecting textile fibers heated in foldable collectors.

Jordan Digital Push: Crown Prince Al Hussein is driving Jordan’s push to become a regional tech and innovation hub, with AI, digital government services, and future-technology investment—backed by the National Council for Future Technology and flagship tools like Siraj, digital health, e-signatures, and Sanad. Green Energy & Water Security: Experts say renewable power, green hydrogen, and green ammonia can strengthen Jordan’s energy security while supporting the water, transport, industrial, and digital economy—alongside plans to raise renewables from ~27% of electricity to 40% by 2035. Ajloun Springs Revival: The Greater Ajloun Municipality launched “Ajloun, Land of Springs” to restore historic springs for eco-tourism and heritage trails while protecting their role in irrigation. Cybersecurity Watch: A new forensic report says Cellebrite’s UFED tool was used on a jailed Russian activist’s phone even after the company claimed it exited Russia—highlighting how offline-capable tools can keep operating in authoritarian hands. World Cup Tech Meets Crypto: Jordan’s debut goal vs Argentina is getting attention as FIFA 2026 leans further into crypto sponsorships and on-chain prediction markets.

Jordan Tech Push: Jordan is accelerating its digital future under Crown Prince Al Hussein, with a national push for AI, digital government services, and future-tech investment—highlighting the National Council for Future Technology and flagship tools like Siraj, Sanad, and digital signatures. Green Energy & Water-Security: Energy experts say expanding renewables plus green hydrogen and green ammonia can strengthen Jordan’s energy security and support the water, transport, industrial, and digital economy, with renewables at ~27% of power generation and targets rising to 40% by 2035. Tourism & Water Heritage: Ajloun’s “Land of Springs” initiative restores historic springs for eco-tourism while keeping their role in irrigation, aiming to revive damaged channels and heritage trails. Disaster Response: Jordan dispatched search, rescue, and medical teams to support earthquake relief in Venezuela, with a field hospital and supplies planned. Entrepreneurship Call: Global IME Bank’s Udyamshala program opens applications to incubate and accelerate SMEs through mentorship and practical training. Crown Prince Birthday: Jordan marks HRH Crown Prince Hussein’s 32nd birthday, spotlighting his role in modernization and youth-focused development.

Jordan Response to Disasters: Jordan has sent search, rescue, and medical teams to Venezuela after twin earthquakes, with a field hospital and supplies expected soon. Regional Tech & Transport History: The Hejaz railway revival is back on the agenda, with Türkiye and Saudi Arabia signing an MoU to restore the historic Damascus–Medina route and reshape Middle East connectivity. Cybersecurity & Industry Impact: Investigators say Russian-linked hackers were behind the $2.5B Jaguar Land Rover ransomware attack, highlighting how social engineering can cripple major manufacturers. Jordan Policy & Security: Jordan resumed capital punishment after a nearly nine-year moratorium, citing deterrence and national security concerns. Local STEM & Research: Mutah University reported a research milestone in water management and drought resilience, reinforcing Jordan’s push for practical climate solutions. Digital Payments in MENA: Alawneh Exchange launched Alawneh Pay on Digibanc, aiming to expand digital payments across the region. STEM in Education: Jordan’s STEM and climate/green initiatives were highlighted in an Irish ambassador’s update on expanding education and people-to-people cooperation.

Cybersecurity & Economy: Investigators say a Russian-linked ransomware attack on Jaguar Land Rover cost the UK economy about £1.9bn (around $2.5bn), crippling car production for weeks after attackers used phishing and vishing phone calls to breach staff accounts. Jordan in Humanitarian Response: Jordan sent search, rescue, and medical teams to Venezuela after twin earthquakes, with a field hospital and supplies planned. Energy & Resources: Jordan announced huge uranium reserves said to be sufficient for 80 years, signaling a long-term push in energy security. Digital Infrastructure in Jordan: AD Ports and Aqaba Development launched Maqta Ayla’s AI truck management system for port operations, aiming to streamline daily movements at Aqaba Port. STEM & Education Links: Jordan’s Crown Prince met US tech leaders and entrepreneurs, while Ireland’s departing ambassador highlighted embassy-backed STEM and climate initiatives in Jordan. Policy & Society: Jordan resumed capital punishment after a nearly nine-year moratorium, citing deterrence and national security needs.

Education & Exams: Jordan’s Tawjihi 2026 first session starts Thursday, with 126,679 students taking Islamic Education and Islamic Studies across 738 centers, including candidates in vocational/technical and health sciences tracks plus special cases at correctional and Hussein Cancer Center sites. Energy & Industry: Jordan announced proven uranium reserves of about 42,000 tons, enough for nuclear energy needs for up to 80 years, and said it has already processed 1,500 tons of uranium ore into yellowcake while aiming to scale production. STEM & Youth: The Irish Ambassador to Jordan highlighted expanding STEM and climate/green initiatives supported by the embassy, framing education as a key pillar of Jordan-Ireland cooperation. Cybersecurity: A new report flags renewed web attacks, including Cloudflare’s privacy-preserving PACT approach to reduce tracking and separate human traffic from risky requests, alongside multiple curl security flaws. Policy & Society: Jordan resumed capital punishment after a nearly nine-year moratorium, citing deterrence and internal security needs, while raising concerns over alignment with European opposition to the death penalty. Infrastructure & Mobility: A digital transformation partnership links Microshare, Taqt and Zurich Airport to bring more responsive, data-driven terminal operations using connected facilities tech.

Digital Infrastructure in Airports: Microshare, Taqt and Zurich Airport announced an integrated digital transformation partnership for terminal operations, linking IoT devices (including cleaning and pest monitoring plus connected washroom systems) to shift crews from fixed schedules to demand-driven maintenance. Energy & Mining: Jordan said it has proven uranium reserves of about 42,000 tons, enough for nuclear energy needs for up to 80 years, with plans to scale “yellowcake” production and benefit from rising global uranium prices. Education & National Exams: Amman reported the first Tawjihi 2026 exam session starting Thursday, with 126,679 students taking Islamic Education and Islamic Studies across hundreds of centers, including candidates in rehabilitation centers and students with disabilities. Tech & Government Efficiency: Crown Prince Al Hussein met Silicon Valley tech leaders and reviewed National Council for Future Technology workflows, highlighting cooperation in AI, FinTech, SaaS, digital education and engineering simulation. Cybersecurity Watch: A center detected 27 websites impersonating national institutions, warning of ongoing phishing-style threats. STEM Research Spotlight: Mutah University announced a research milestone in water management and drought resilience.