Mafraq, Irbid development zones attract JD886m, create over 4,200 jobs
The King Hussein Bin Talal Development Area in Mafraq and the Irbid Development Area collectively attract JD886 million in local and international investments (Photo courtesy of King Hussein Bin Talal Development Area in Mafraq)
AMMAN — Private sector investments in Jordan's northern development zones are gaining impressive traction, with the King Hussein Bin Talal Development Area in Mafraq and the Irbid Development Area collectively attracting JD886 million in local and international investments.
These projects have so far created over 4,200 sustainable jobs across industrial, technological, and entrepreneurial sectors, according to a Social Security Investment Fund (SSIF) statement.
The figures were presented during a recent meeting of the Social Security Investment Board held at the King Hussein Bin Talal Development Area, where senior officials and stakeholders reviewed progress and upcoming initiatives.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Daman for Development Areas Company (DDC) Awwad Hijazi showcased the company's accomplishments in infrastructure development and investor engagement, which he said have been instrumental in boosting competitiveness and diversifying investment sectors both nationally and regionally.
Highlighting Mafraq's growing appeal, Salem Khazaleh, chairman of the Mafraq Development Corporation, said that the area has attracted JD641 million in investments, spanning sectors such as solar energy, manufacturing, and logistics. These investments have generated around 1,840 jobs.
Khazaleh also announced plans for a major logistics hub currently under preparation, describing it as a 'strategic opportunity' for both local and foreign investors that could position Mafraq as a key logistics gateway for Jordan and the wider region.
In Irbid, the development area is emerging as a center for innovation and technology, according to DDC CEO Liza Dughmi. She noted that JD45 million has been invested in tech-driven and educational ventures, creating 2,370 high-value jobs in advanced specialisations. Dughmi also emphasised partnerships with public institutions and local organisations to strengthen the investment climate and deliver tangible benefits to local communities.
SSIF Chairman Umayya Toukan said the progress in both zones reflects the Hashemite leadership's vision to channel investments into governorates, supporting economic growth and decentralised development.
'The Fund remains committed to securing sustainable returns that go beyond financial profit,' he said. 'Our investments are about creating real economic and social value.'
SSIF CEO Ezzeddin Kanakrieh described the development zones as a model of effective public-private partnership, grounded in strategic planning and focused on viable, impactful projects.
'These investments represent a core pillar of responsible, sustainable development,' Kanakrieh said. 'They are fully aligned with the Economic Modernisation Vision and support the government's efforts to build a resilient, competitive economy.'
Board members commended DDC and its subsidiaries for their role in elevating Jordan's regional investment profile. They applauded efforts to provide world-class infrastructure, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
Established in 2009, DDC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Social Security Corporation and serves as the investment arm of the Social Security Investment Fund.
The company is responsible for developing, managing, and marketing both the Mafraq and Irbid development areas, which were designated as special economic zones under Royal Initiatives aimed at advancing investment and fostering inclusive growth across Jordan's governorates.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Ammon
7 hours ago
- Ammon
Cabinet approves JD4.1 mln to subsidise operational costs for public transport operators
Ammon News - The Council of Ministers decided to approve the Ministry of Transport's implementation of necessary procedures to restructure the Land Transport Regulatory Commission (LTRC) to define the roles, tasks and responsibilities between the Ministry and the LTRC. Under the proposed restructuring, a study will be conducted to establish a Board of Commissioners for the LTRC, similar to the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC), enhancing the commission's independence, governance and its vital service and economic roles. Relevant legislation will be amended accordingly. The new Board of Commissioners will consist of the Chairperson, the Commissioner for Passenger Transport, the Commissioner for Freight Transport and the Commissioner for Rail Transport. Additionally, there is potential to include a Specialised Transport Commissioner to oversee other modes such as tourism, school and university transport, smart applications and more. The goal is to reduce workload and emphasise the emerging transport models. This restructuring follows a comprehensive study of the current state of the Land Transport Regulatory Commission, its mandated tasks, challenges and obstacles. The objective is to improve the commission's efficiency and effectiveness in advancing the Kingdom's transport system, which alligns with the objectives of the Economic Modernisation Vision. Recent developments in the transport sector include the launch of scheduled services between several governorates, supported by treasury funds, such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) connecting Amman to Madaba. The Council of Ministers approved to earmark JOD4.1 million to subsidise operational costs for public transport operators from June through the end of the year, based on global fuel prices. The Ministry of Transport and the Land Transport Regulatory Commission will develop the implementation mechanism. Support will be disbursed monthly at rates of JOD100 for a medium-sized bus, JOD170 for a large bus, and JOD60 for small vehicles. The Council decided to exempt Syrian buses entering Jordan from fuel subsidies (diesel), set at JOD80 per bus carrying more than eight passengers, contingent upon reciprocity from the Syrian side to benefit both Jordanian and Syrian operators, reinforcing cooperation between the two countries to enhance trade and transport. On tourism, the Council approved the draft Tourist Guide Services Regulations for 2025 and the amended Tourist Guide Association Regulations for 2025, preparing them for submission to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for approval. The regulations implement provisions of the amended Tourism Law No. (9) of 2024, which replaces licensing requirements with classification and registration via electronic applications, streamlining the licensing process. Regarding agricultural projects, the Council assigned the Ministry of Water and Irrigation/Jordan Valley Authority to set a maximum land lease of 4,000 dunams in the Wadi Araba region for investment, with exceptions possible based on project viability. This aims to stimulate economic activity, attract investments and create jobs in the area, supporting the goals of the Economic Modernisation Vision. The Council approved allocations of land in Al-Ghamr, Umm Mithla, Al-Risha, and Gharandal for food security projects, agricultural ponds and partnership expansion, contributing to national food security and optimising land use. To enhance healthcare services, the Council authorised the Ministry of Health to proceed with establishing the new Ajloun Comprehensive Health Centre, scheduled for completion in 2026 at a cost of JOD1 million. This aligns with the Quality of Life pillar of the Economic Modernisation Vision. In environmental efforts, the Council approved a $1.1 million agreement with the United Nations Human Settlements Program for urban greening and afforestation in Sahab, Zarqa Governorate. The project aims to develop sustainable, resilient urban environments, improve public spaces and address environmental challenges posed by urban expansion. As part of water infrastructure development, the government approved an investment grant from the Dutch government valued at €30 million for the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project, which aims to supply 300 million cubic meters of potable water annually to address the Kingdom's water shortage. In energy and mineral resources, the Council approved the Jordan National Petroleum Company's retention of dues amounting to JOD3.4 million from 2024 revenues to support the Risha gas field development, including drilling 80 wells to increase production. The company aims to reach a production target of 418 million cubic feet per day by 2030. Furthermore, the Council approved land use agreements with Philadelphia Solar (Jordan) and Enertag (Germany) to prepare feasibility studies for green hydrogen projects, part of the government's strategy to develop renewable energy sources. To stimulate economic activity, the Council decided to exempt companies and taxpayers from fines and fees related to installment payments of income and sales taxes, provided dues are settled by the end of 2025. This measure aims to ease financial burdens and support business continuity. Additionally, the Council approved establishing a duty-free shop at the sea pier of the Abu Dhabi Ports Company's "New Port" in Aqaba, enhancing border trade and tourism services, in line with existing agreements with the Jordan Duty Free Shops Company. The Council approved an amended regulation for licensing exchange companies in 2025, allowing them to expand activities, including electronic money transfer services. Finally, the Council endorsed the Yarmouk University Faculty Regulations for 2025 and the grounds for regulating Sufi orders and tekkes in the Kingdom. The regulation aims to organise and supervise these institutions under the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, ensuring legal oversight and preventing exploitation.
Jordan Times
25-05-2025
- Jordan Times
Jordanian apparel industry drives economic growth, green shift
Ehab Qadri, representative of the sector at JCI says that the apparel sector's export value exceeded $2.5 billion in 2024, accounting for 26 per cent of Jordan's total industrial exports (Petra photo) AMMAN — The Jordan Chamber of Industry (JCI) has highlighted the leather and garments industries sector as one of the national industries leading in export and production, attributing its success to 'supportive' political will and continuous economic reforms. Ehab Qadri, representative of the sector at JCI, said the sector has become one of the main pillars of Jordanian industry. It now ranks first among export-oriented manufacturing industries, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported on Sunday. Qadri added that the sector's export value exceeded $2.5 billion in 2024, accounting for 26 per cent of Jordan's total industrial exports. Total production amounted to more than $3.2 billion. He noted that Jordan has become a strategic industrial base for exporting products to global markets, particularly the United States, benefiting from the free trade agreements signed by the Kingdom. Qadri emphasised that the sector is among the primary drivers of the Economic Modernisation Vision (EMV), launched by His Majesty King Abdullah in 2022. The EMV aims to increase the industry's contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and create hundreds of thousands of quality jobs by 2033. He said companies in the sector are now working to shift towards higher value-added industries by promoting design, innovation, and the development of national brands. The sector is also moving towards sustainable production that considers environmental and social dimensions. As part of its partnerships, Qadri referred to the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The agreement aims to enhance productivity and adopt advanced manufacturing technologies. Qadri explained that the partnership includes initiatives to build institutional capacity, develop value chains, and promote compliance with international standards. These efforts will strengthen Jordan's position as a regional hub for advanced textile and leather industries. According to Qadri, the sector is a leader in human development, currently providing over 90,000 direct jobs. Women make up more than 67 per cent of its workforce. It is also regarded as one of the most supportive sectors for women's economic empowerment, particularly in governorates, productive branches, and industrial zones across the Kingdom. Qadri noted that the sector also appeals to Jordanian youth through specialised training programmes and job opportunities designed to align with the demands of the modern labour market. In line with the global shift towards a green economy, Qadri said major factories in the sector have begun to adopt environmental and social sustainability standards. He added that these standards include the use of solar energy, water treatment technologies, and commitment to responsible production practices, enhancing the competitiveness of Jordanian products in both European and US markets.
Jordan News
22-05-2025
- Jordan News
Jordan's Foreign Grants Drop by 46.2 Million Dinars in Q1 2025 - Jordan News
Foreign grants to Jordan reached 3.4 million dinars during the first quarter of 2025, a sharp decline compared to 49.6 million dinars during the same period last year, according to data from the Ministry of Finance. اضافة اعلان This marks a decrease of 46.2 million dinars, or 93.2%, compared to Q1 2024, as reported by Al Mamlaka. Despite the drop in disbursed grants, the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation secured new pledges exceeding $2 billion in April alone, for funding key development projects through grants and loans. According to a brief report on the achievements of government ministries and institutions in April, the Ministry of Planning signed funding agreements and received commitments totaling $2.1 billion from several partners, including: The World Bank The German Development Bank (KfW) The Dutch Embassy The Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development Rise in Domestic Revenues Meanwhile, domestic revenues increased by 150 million dinars in Q1 2025, reaching 2.16 billion dinars, up from 2.01 billion during the same period last year. Tax revenues accounted for 1.582 billion dinars, distributed as follows: General sales tax: 1.076 billion dinars Income and profit tax: 419 million dinars Real estate sales tax: 24 million dinars Trade and international transaction taxes: 63 million dinars Non-tax revenues amounted to 578 million dinars for the same period. Public Debt Update Jordan's gross public debt, including debt held by the Social Security Investment Fund (SSIF), rose to 118.4% of GDP by the end of Q1 2025. However: It drops to 91.5% when excluding SSIF-held debt And further declines to 90.9% after excluding the deposit at the Central Bank earmarked for repaying the Eurobond maturing in June These developments reflect ongoing fiscal challenges and a shift toward relying more on internal revenue sources and external loan commitments rather than direct grant disbursements.
