This is a tale of two cities — the Jordanian version — and it is surreal in many aspects. It started on Oct. 21, when Prime Minister Hani al-Mulki revealed in a meeting with local media that his government had finished a comprehensive study to build a “new Amman.” He said the new city would not be connected to the capital. The announcement shocked Jordanians, who were taken by surprise. The idea had never been proposed by previous governments or publicly discussed.

Almost a week later, on Oct. 29, Mulki announced that the new city was part of the government's effort to stimulate the economy and attract investment, especially from the private sector, and that it would be built entirely on government land. The project, he claimed, would help ease traffic congestion in the capital and contribute to solving the challenges of overcrowding.

Still, Jordanians were perplexed. Was this new city to become Jordan’s new capital? Why did Mulki call it a “new Amman”? Most important, where would the cash-strapped government find the money to finance such a mega project?

Under pressure from the public and media, government spokesman Mohammad al-Momani made things worse while speaking to a local TV station. On Oct. 28, Saraya news reported him as saying that “no one knows where new Amman will be located except for four or five persons.” The outlet also noted, “He himself doesn’t know.” Momani did say, however, that the “new capital” has been under study for the last six months, and it will be constructed in partnership with the private sector “since the state budget will not be sufficient.” He revealed that it is to be carried out over five phases.