Exploring the Concept of Smart Cities in Jordan
At the fourth Tawasul 2026 Forum, held at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Center in the Dead Sea area, experts and officials gathered to discuss the concept of smart cities in Jordan. The event, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein Bin Abdullah II, featured a specialized session titled "Lifestyles in a Changing World: How Our Societies Are Being Shaped Today." This session brought together professionals from urban planning, economics, and architecture to explore how smart cities are transforming life in Jordan.
The discussion highlighted that the concept of smart cities goes beyond digital infrastructure. It encompasses improving the daily quality of life for citizens, according to Yousef Shawarbeh, Chairman of the Greater Amman Municipality Committee. He emphasized that legislation is crucial for any sustainable urban transformation. Shawarbeh also mentioned that the future model for cities should focus on access to services, proximity to residents, and the provision of green spaces.
Shawarbeh pointed out key challenges facing Jordanian cities, including weak infrastructure in the face of climate change, haphazard urban development, and a lack of public spaces. He noted that Amman faces a gap between citizens' expectations and the level of implementation on the ground, which he attributed to historical planning shortcomings. The city was not designed to accommodate population growth due to waves of refugees and migration, which weakened its capacity.
To address these issues, the Greater Amman Municipality has developed a five-year strategic plan focusing on improving quality of life, strengthening the city's resilience, transforming into a green and clean city, and turning initiatives into implementable projects. The plan includes procedural reforms such as simplifying land use and enhancing citizen participation in planning decision-making.
Saad Al-Maasher, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Bank, highlighted the role of the private sector in shaping the identity of cities. He stressed that the success of any urban model requires good governance, institutional integration, and a balance between profitability and social value.
Architectural expert Rami Taher provided a critical reading of the concept of spatial identity, emphasizing that it is a dynamic entity shaped by social and cultural transformations rather than a fixed template. He warned against imposing ready-made organizational models that disregard the unique characteristics of a place and its natural resources.
Architect Ammar Khamash presented practical models of urban projects that consider both people and the environment. He affirmed that urban design can be an effective tool for creating interactive spaces and strengthening community bonds.
On transport, engineer Hazem Zreiqat discussed the need for solutions to Amman's traffic crisis. He suggested replanning neighborhoods and developing an efficient public transport system while involving various stakeholders in the decision-making process. He noted that rapid growth in vehicle numbers and limited infrastructure have exacerbated traffic congestion. Addressing the crisis requires a comprehensive approach integrating urban planning, the economy, and community behavior.
Participants agreed that the transition to smart cities in Jordan is no longer a technological option but a multi-dimensional strategic necessity. This requires profound legislative reform, enhanced partnerships, and a redefinition of the relationship between people and their environment.
The Tawasul Forum serves as a national dialogue platform organized annually by the Crown Prince Foundation. Its aim is to enhance public participation and the exchange of views among decision-makers, experts, and youth, thereby contributing to shaping future policies.
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