Economic Overview, Amman Tech Oasis & Arabic Content Hub
Jordan produces a major portion of all Arabic digital content and offers top software engineering and regional management talent in the Middle East.
Key Economic Sectors
- Software & Arabic Digital Media: Leading development center for regional SaaS, gaming, and digital content.
- Pharmaceuticals & Health Services: Regional healthcare tourism and high-grade generic drug manufacturing (Hikma Pharmaceuticals).
- Aqaba Port Logistics & Tourism: Red Sea shipping hub and world-renowned cultural tourism (Petra, Wadi Rum).
Employment Contracts, Labour Law No. 8/1996 & Probation
Regulated by Jordanian Labour Law (Law No. 8 of 1996).
- Written Contracts: Must be in Arabic (or bilingual) detailing job terms and salary.
- Probation Period: Maximum statutory probation is 3 months.
Working Hours, Overtime & Rest Periods
- Standard Hours: 48 hours per week (typically 8 hours/day over 6 days, or 5 days in tech).
- Overtime Surcharges: Minimum 125% (25% premium) on normal days; 150% (50% premium) on religious and national holidays.
Annual Leave, Public Holidays & Maternity Protections
- Annual Paid Vacation: Minimum 14 working days per year (increases to 21 working days after 5 continuous years of service).
- Public Holidays: ~10 to 12 official national and religious holidays.
- Maternity Leave: 10 weeks (70 days) fully paid leave (funded through SSC maternity insurance).
Social Security (SSC 14.25%) & ISTD Income Tax
| Statutory Scheme | Employer Share | Employee Share | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Security Corporation (SSC) | 14.25% | 7.50% | Old age, disability, death, work injury & maternity (21.75% total) |
Personal Income Tax: Progressive rates from 5% up to 30% on taxable income, administered by ISTD.
Termination, Notice & Severance Indemnity
- Notice Periods: Minimum 1 month written notice for indefinite contracts.
- Severance Pay: Paid under Section 32 of Labour Law for employees not covered by SSC retirement.
Why Use an Employer of Record (EOR) in Jordan
- Access Top MENA Tech Talent: Onboard software engineers and Arabic content specialists in Amman in days.
- SSC & ISTD Compliance: Automated management of 14.25% employer social contributions and local tax filings.
- Work Permit Sponsorship: EOR manages Ministry of Labour approvals for foreign personnel.
Hiring in Jordan? Key Resources
Whether you are evaluating entity setup vs. using an Employer of Record, or looking for the best international payroll solution, our guides give you transparent benchmarks:
