The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority in Jordan has finally announced the start of comprehensive planning, capacity building, and practical implementation of the 'Aqaba Smart City' project. The inaugural and first coordination meeting with experts and specialists from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was chaired by the Commissioner of Infrastructure and Urban Affairs at the Authority, Mutasim Hindawi. According to an official statement, during this period, practical implementation frameworks for the smart city's initiatives and programs will be developed, the capacity of local personnel will be built, and partnerships will be strengthened to ensure the formulation and implementation of an integrated plan to qualify Aqaba as one of the future smart cities. This comes within the framework of the ongoing and continuous work to implement and execute the master plan for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone (2020-2040). Hindawi affirmed that the continuation of the project through technical and technological cooperation with JICA aims to enhance the capabilities of the smart city in Aqaba, in line with the long-term vision for future comprehensive and integrated urban planning. This cooperation also leverages digital solutions and data to improve citizens' quality of life and elevate the city's level of urban services.