Jordan revives plan for Zarqa–Amman light rail as Hijaz Railway outlines major upgrades

The Director-General of the Jordan Hijaz Railway, Zahi Khalil, announced a package of strategic and development projects for the rail network, most notably the revival of the proposed Zarqa–Amman light rail project.

Khalil said the study has been “resubmitted to the government,” noting that a decision will be made based on the updated review. If approved, the project would introduce a new light rail system to the country’s public transport network.

Preserving a historic railway

Highlighting the historical importance of the line, Khalil stressed that “Jordan is the only country that preserved the Hijaz Railway.” He added that the historic train carriages “have been operating since 1900 using different types of fuel.”

All locomotives remain operational, he said, explaining that the fleet includes eight steam locomotives and five diesel-powered ones.

Shift from trade to tourism

Khalil noted that commercial transport with Syria has been suspended since 2011 due to the war. As a result, the administration shifted its focus toward tourism, which is now its main activity.

The railway currently operates three to four tourist trips per week. Khalil expressed hopes that these trips will become daily in the future. Train activity pauses for one to two months in winter depending on weather conditions to ensure passenger safety.

Station upgrades and development plan

Regarding infrastructure development, Khalil said the institution has “a plan to complete the upgrade of its stations.” Out of eight stations in total, three have already been renovated, while the remaining five are expected to be completed within the next three months. This includes rehabilitating buildings to make them fully ready for use.

Current efforts are focused on the Qatraneh station, while work on the Zarqa and Mafraq stations is scheduled for next year.

Investment zones and beautification

Khalil identified the main investment zones along the railway as Mafraq, Zarqa, and Amman.

He also revealed that a request was submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture for two thousand trees to be planted along the railway. The goal is to enhance the visual appeal of the line for both visitors and tourists at destinations such as Aqaba.