Approval of the Mining Agreement Law in the Abu Khusheiba Area

Thursday, April 23, 2026

Amman - Jordan

The Jordanian Parliament has approved, in a legislative session, held on Sunday, April 19, 2026, the draft law ratifying the Executive Agreement for the evaluation, exploration, and potential development of copper and associated mineralization in the Abu Khusheiba area, signed between the Government of Jordan and Wadi Araba Minerals Company. This approval is a part of the required legislative procedures in accordance with the Jordanian Constitution and applicable laws. The agreement reflects ongoing efforts to support responsible investment in the mining and natural resources sector, with the aim of contributing to economic development, enhancing skills and employment opportunities, and supporting local communities, subject to the outcomes of technical studies and regulatory approvals.

In the next legislative step, The Jordanian Senate in its session held on Wednesday April 22, 2026, chaired by Senate President Faisal Al-Fayez and attended by Prime Minister Dr. Jaafar Hassan and members of the Cabinet, approved the Executive Agreement for the evaluation, exploration, and potential development of copper and associated mineralization in the Abu Khusheiba area as received from the Parliament. In its final session of the second ordinary term, the Senate endorsed the agreement, completing the legislative process required for their ratification.

The agreement becomes effective in accordance with the Jordanian Constitution upon the issuance of the Royal Decree by His Majesty King Abdullah II.

Exploration and Evaluation Phase (Phase 1)

According to the workplan for Phase 1 of the Executive Agreement, this phase comprises a two-year exploration and evaluation programme. Planned activities include drilling, geological mapping, sampling, and geophysical and geochemical surveys aimed at enhancing the understanding of mineralization within the Abu Khusheiba area and assessing its overall potential.

The programme also includes mining-related technical studies such as conceptual pit optimization, preliminary mine design parameters, and mine planning scenarios, as well as metallurgical test work to assess mineral characteristics and potential recovery processes. Environmental baseline studies and an Environmental Impact Assessment are undertaken in accordance with applicable Jordanian legislation, the ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Standard (EMS), and relevant international and local environmental management practices.

Development Phase (Phase 2)

Upon successful completion of Phase 1, including satisfactory technical results, regulatory compliance, and the receipt of all required approvals. WAM will progress to Phase 2.

Wadi Araba Minerals Company (WAM) looks forward to advancing the next stages of work under the Executive Agreement. This milestone marks an important step in supporting the continued development of Jordan’s mining sector.

WAM is optimistic about the potential of the Abu Khusheiba area and is committed to carrying out its exploration activities in a responsible and systematic manner. The company aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the sector, in alignment with Jordan’s Economic Modernization objectives, while creating value for local communities and stakeholders.

As the project progresses, WAM will continue to work closely with relevant authorities and partners, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and adherence to recognized environmental and operational standards.