The Nuclear Jackpot: Jordan’s Big Uranium Bet
Jordan Positions Itself as a Key Uranium Supplier Amid Rising Global Demand

Jordan is positioning itself as a future player in the global uranium market, recognizing the critical role the resource will play in sustainable growth and energy security. The Jordan Uranium Mining Company (JUMCO) is leading the charge, working on a feasibility study that could pave the way for commercial-scale uranium mining. The recent partnership between JUMCO and Kazakhstan’s national atomic company, Kazatomprom, underscores Jordan’s commitment to becoming a key uranium supplier.
Mohammad Shannag, general manager of JUMCO, highlighted the significance of the memorandum of understanding signed with Kazatomprom. The agreement, finalized during Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit to Jordan, will facilitate joint exploration and mining projects, helping assess the country’s uranium potential. With global demand for uranium rising, Jordan is keen to capitalize on its reserves and position itself as a strategic supplier in the nuclear energy sector.
A Nation Rich in Uranium Reserves
Jordan’s uranium reserves are substantial. The 2022 OECD Nuclear Energy Agency and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ‘Red Book’ estimates that Jordan holds around 62,000 tonnes of inferred uranium resources. The deposits, primarily located in central Jordan, are found in shallow carbonaceous and phosphatic rocks, making extraction cost-effective. In addition, uranium-bearing phosphatic rocks in regions like Al Hasa, Al Qatrana, and Al Ruwaished hold an estimated 200,000 tonnes of uranium oxide, suggesting a vast untapped potential.
Unlike some countries that export raw uranium ore, Jordan aims to produce yellowcake domestically. This aligns with its national strategy of creating high-value industries and job opportunities, rather than merely being a supplier of raw materials to international markets. The country’s pilot plant in Swaqa, operational since 2021, has been instrumental in testing heap leaching technology. By processing hundreds of tonnes of uranium ore, Jordan hopes to scale up production and transition toward full-fledged commercial mining.
Securing Investment and Overcoming Challenges
A key step in Jordan’s uranium ambitions is completing a bankable feasibility study to assess expected returns and attract investors. The government is exploring multiple funding avenues, including local and international loans, financial backing from institutions like the World Bank, and private sector investments. With uranium prices on the rise, the sector has caught the attention of regional and international investors, increasing the likelihood of securing capital for large-scale development.
However, Jordan faces a significant challenge—water scarcity. The country’s demand for water exceeds supply by approximately 600 million cubic meters per year, making efficient water usage crucial. To address this, JUMCO plans to use treated brackish groundwater for mining operations while implementing industrial water recycling technologies. By adopting sustainable water management practices, Jordan aims to mitigate environmental concerns while ensuring the viability of its uranium projects.
Commitment to Environmental and Workforce Development
Environmental protection remains a top priority in Jordan’s uranium mining strategy. Operations will adhere to strict IAEA standards, ensuring that heap leaching residues are treated and securely stored to prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water sources. Ongoing environmental monitoring will be enforced to minimize risks to soil, air, and water quality.
Beyond environmental considerations, Jordan is focused on developing a skilled workforce to manage its uranium sector. JUMCO is actively training local talent through mining fieldwork programs and partnerships with international institutions such as the IAEA. By fostering homegrown expertise, Jordan seeks to reduce reliance on foreign professionals and build a self-sufficient nuclear energy industry.
The Road Ahead
Jordan’s uranium ambitions are moving forward with confidence. With strong partnerships, a commitment to environmental sustainability, and strategic investment planning, the country is poised to become a significant player in the uranium market. If the feasibility study confirms commercial viability, Jordan could soon emerge as a key supplier in the global nuclear energy landscape, supporting both economic growth and energy security.
