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HRsolution » COUNTRIES »
Population
Jordan has a population of approximately 10.5 million people (as of 2023). The population is ethnically diverse, with the majority being of Arab descent. There are also significant groups of Palestinian refugees who have been living in the country since the regional conflicts. In recent years, Jordan has also taken in a large number of Syrian refugees.
Capital
The capital of Jordan is Amman, a rapidly growing city and the economic and cultural center of the country. Amman is known for its modern infrastructure, historical sites, and its role as an important hub in the Middle East.
Economic Strength
Jordan’s economy is diversified but highly dependent on foreign aid and imports due to the country’s limited natural resources. Key economic sectors include services, tourism, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and IT. Tourism, driven by historical sites like Petra and the Dead Sea, significantly contributes to the economy. While the economy is growing moderately, the country faces challenges such as high unemployment and significant reliance on foreign assistance.
Culture
Jordan’s culture blends traditional Bedouin customs with modern Arab lifestyles. Religion plays a central role, with Islam being the dominant religion. Festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are important religious celebrations. Jordanian cuisine, with dishes like Mansaf (the national dish made of lamb and rice), reflects the rich traditions of the country. Jordanian society is family-oriented, and hospitality is deeply embedded in the culture.
Currency
The official currency of Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which is relatively stable compared to other currencies.
Health Insurance and Social Security System
Jordan has a state-run healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to all citizens, with most services being subsidized. There is also a private healthcare system offering additional services. Jordan’s social security system includes pensions, unemployment benefits, and sick leave. Both employers and employees contribute to the system, with the employer contributing 14.25% and the employee contributing 7.5% of their salary.
Employer Costs
Employer costs in Jordan include social security contributions, healthcare benefits, and salaries. The employer’s contribution rate to social security is 14.25% of the employee’s gross salary. Additionally, employers may offer voluntary benefits such as private health insurance or transportation allowances, which can increase total costs.
Salary and Bonuses
Salaries in Jordan vary depending on the industry and the qualifications of the employees. The minimum wage is approximately 260 JOD per month (as of 2023). Annual bonuses or special payments, particularly around the end of the year or during religious holidays, are common in many companies, especially in the public sector.
Payroll
Employers are required to provide employees with a monthly payslip, detailing the base salary, allowances, and deductions such as taxes and social security contributions. These payslips are essential for ensuring transparency and compliance with tax regulations.
Public Holidays
Jordan observes several public holidays, both religious and national. Key holidays include:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Independence Day (May 25)
- Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
- Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
- Islamic New Year
Holidays that follow the Islamic lunar calendar may vary each year.
Working Hours
The standard working week in Jordan is 48 hours, typically spread over six days, with most employees working eight-hour shifts. Friday is generally a day off due to it being the Islamic day of prayer. In some sectors, especially office jobs, a five-day workweek with reduced hours is common.
Vacation
Employees in Jordan are entitled to at least 14 days of paid annual leave, which increases to 21 days for those who have been employed for more than five years with the same company. Additionally, employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays. Workers can also take up to 14 days of sick leave per year.
Sick Leave
In the case of illness, employees are entitled to sick leave. The first 14 days of sick leave are fully paid by the employer, and in some cases, employees can extend their sick leave, with partial coverage provided by the social security system. An official medical certificate is usually required to claim sick leave.
Termination/Severance
Jordan’s labor law mandates a 30-day notice period in the case of termination by the employer. In the event of involuntary termination, employees are entitled to severance pay after a certain period of employment. Severance pay is generally calculated based on the length of service and can be up to one month’s salary for each year of employment.