The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union have joined forces to strengthen Jordan’s digital future with a major investment in the Aqaba Digital Hub. The EBRD is providing a JOD 10 million (about US$ 14.1 million) loan to expand the country’s largest carrier-neutral data centre, supported by EU guarantees and grants.

This funding will help expand and upgrade the existing data centre facilities, including the construction of a second hall and improved infrastructure. It will also support the settlement of short-term liabilities and promote green technology investments. Capital Bank of Jordan is participating as a parallel lender.

The project aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and the Pact for the Mediterranean. It aims to position Jordan as a trusted regional digital gateway with secure, resilient, and high-quality digital infrastructure. The investment will enhance connectivity through fibre networks and subsea cables, such as the Coral Bridge, which links Jordan to Africa and Europe.

Aqaba Digital Hub plays a vital role in providing cloud services, colocation, cybersecurity solutions, and digital infrastructure for businesses across Jordan and the wider region. The expansion will increase capacity, improve reliability, and support growing demand for data services as more companies and government institutions shift to digital operations.

The partnership also advances the Aqaba Digital Academy initiative, which focuses on building local skills in information and communications technology (ICT), cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. This will create new opportunities for young Jordanians to gain relevant training and enter the digital workforce.

For ordinary citizens and businesses in Jordan, a stronger digital hub means better internet services, more secure online transactions, and greater access to digital tools for education, healthcare, and commerce. It is especially important for small and medium enterprises that need reliable cloud and data services to grow.

Officials from the EBRD, EU, and Jordanian government described the investment as a significant step toward economic modernisation and regional connectivity. The project is expected to create jobs during construction and operation while attracting more tech investments to Aqaba and Jordan.

This latest development highlights growing international support for Jordan’s ambition to become a digital leader in the Middle East and North Africa. With improved infrastructure and skills development, the country is better positioned to benefit from the global digital economy and support inclusive growth for its people.

The expansion works are expected to begin soon, with visible progress anticipated in the coming months.