Amman: The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) Committee, led by Mayor Yousef Shawarbeh, has approved a series of pivotal agreements focused on developing smart city initiatives and enhancing urban cooperation and sustainable transport. During the Committee's 8th regular session, the members endorsed significant strides towards the Arab Smart Cities Forum 2030 Strategy in collaboration with the Arab Urban Development Institute.
According to Jordan News Agency, the strategy aims to establish the forum's vision, mission, institutional framework, and strategic priorities for the years 2026-2030. In an effort to bolster urban development, the Committee also sanctioned a draft memorandum of understanding with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA). This MoU is designed to create a cooperative framework for sharing expertise, data, and technical insights to uplift institutional performance, city services, and urban planning.
Moreover, the Committee approved a draft grant agreement for the European Electric Bus Rapid Transit Project (EBRT2030) in partnership with the International Association of Public Transport. This grant will facilitate a feasibility study focused on integrating next-generation electric BRT systems with automation and smart connectivity technologies to foster sustainable urban mobility and mitigate emissions and traffic congestion.
The Committee has further committed funds from GAM's budget to support the Amman Vision Treatment and Recycling Company for a decade. This financial allocation aims to uphold high-quality environmental services, maintain operational continuity, and enhance waste management efficiency through contracts with three service providers.
In addition, two GAM Council members, Jordan Engineers Association President Abdullah Ghosheh and Cesar Omar Sober, have been appointed to the Central Planning Committee. This committee, chaired by the GAM Committee Chair, is tasked with overseeing urban planning and zoning matters.
The Committee also ratified a draft technical assistance grant agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Valued at EUR 75,000, this grant will finance consultancy and technical support for installing a new engine at the Ghabawi landfill's biogas system, as part of the development of the site's sixth cell.
To facilitate the digital transition, the formation of the Smart City Steering Panel was approved. This panel will oversee the strategic plan for smart city transformation, endorse proposed project packages, establish policies and procedures, and ensure that smart city initiatives are aligned with Amman's historical and cultural identity.