Abu Dhabi Ports Group has signed a 30-year concession to operate and manage Jordan’s multi-purpose Port of Aqaba through a joint venture (70% Abu Dhabi, 30% Jordan). The deal includes a declared investment of $38.4 million, with full operational control set to begin in August 2026.

The ongoing Red Sea crisis has harmed maritime traffic to both Eilat and Aqaba. However, while Aqaba has remained Jordan’s primary trade gateway throughout the crisis, the Israeli port of Eilat has suffered far more severe damage. According to reports, no vehicles were unloaded at Eilat in 2024, and only 16 ships docked there that entire year. In the first half of 2025, just six ships arrived at the port.

This gap is now becoming strategically significant. Once shipping in the Red Sea recovers even partially, the port that is operationally ready, commercially attractive, and backed by a strong regional operator will be best positioned to capture renewed shipping lines, customers, and long-term logistics habits.