Signing a contract for the implementation of a smart assistant system project to support tourism and investment services in Aqaba using artificial intelligence - (Ask Aqaba)

As part of Jordan's efforts to promote the use of artificial intelligence in priority sectors, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship announced the signing of a contract to implement a project to develop a "Smart Assistant System - ASK AQABA" for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, which aims to improve the user experience in tourism and investment services, by employing artificial intelligence technologies to understand and respond to incoming inquiries accurately and effectively.

This project comes within the framework of the joint technical cooperation agreement between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), to build and develop the system supporting artificial intelligence in Jordan with the aim of promoting the use of emerging technologies related to artificial intelligence, in addition to applying use cases for artificial intelligence in priority sectors.

The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry's headquarters, under the patronage of the Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Eng. Sami Sumirat, and in the presence of the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Mr. "Shadi Ramzi” Al-Majali the and Senior Representative of JICA's office in Jordan, Mr. SUZUKI Takahiro, along with a number of experts from both sides. The contract was signed between the Japanese expert team and Tarjama, the executing company of the project.

Minister Sumirat stressed that the project embodies the ministry's commitment to employing artificial intelligence to improve the efficiency of government services provided to citizens and investors, especially in vital economic zones, pointing out that Aqaba represents a pivotal economic and tourism interface, and that the use of these technologies contributes to enhancing the quality of services and raising the region's readiness to attract investments.

For his part,  Majali stressed that the project comes in line with the Authority's vision and its strategic plan for the years 2024-2028, particularly under the smart city, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence pillar. The goal is to develop Aqaba’s environment and enhance the services provided to citizens, visitors, and investors, positioning the city as a leading investment and tourism hub through the adoption of modern technological tools. He added that the smart assistant system constitutes a qualitative leap in the mechanism of providing services, as it facilitates communication with visitors and investors and enhances the quality of the digital experience provided to them, in a way that supports the competitiveness of Aqaba at both the regional and global levels.

For his part, Mr. SUZUKI Takahiro explained, by leveraging existing data assets, we are not just developing a model; we are laying the groundwork for a future where investors and tourists can easily access vital information and services, fostering prosperity for all. Our commitment to creating a scalable solution will enhance various departments and sectors. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team at ASEZA and the MoDEE for their invaluable expertise and vision. Together, let's reimagine Aqaba's potential and transform it into a premier destination for investment and tourism.