Jordan’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, currently employing over 46,000 professionals, is well-positioned to more than double its workforce by 2033, according to Eng. Nidal Bitar, CEO of the Information and Communications Technology Association of Jordan (int@j).
“We believe there is significant potential for growth,” Bitar stated. “The Economic Modernization Vision sets an ambitious but attainable target of approximately 100,000 jobs in the sector by 2033—and we are confident that this can be achieved due to a combination of strategic initiatives and enabling factors.”
In an interview with Jordan Daily, Bitar pointed to the global shortage of tech talent—projected to reach 85 million unfilled jobs by 2030, potentially resulting in an annual global economic loss of $8.5 trillion, according to the World Economic Forum- as a strategic opportunity for Jordan.
“With approximately 7,000 ICT-related graduates entering the market each year, and with various national initiatives supported by the Ministry of Digital Economy & Entrepreneurship (MoDEE), the Digital Skills Association (DigiSkills), and international development partners focused on reskilling and upskilling thousands more, Jordan is well placed to respond to this global demand,” he added.
“We need to further empower our companies—especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups—to become more export-ready and aligned with global standards,” Bitar explained. “This includes facilitating access to international markets, enabling participation in global trade missions and exhibitions, appointing regional and international business development intermediaries, and strengthening int@j’s Business Development & Readiness Unit.”
Regarding recent concerns over proposed U.S. tariffs, Bitar clarified that initial indications suggest these measures apply to goods, not services.
“We’ve received limited but reassuring feedback indicating that Jordan’s ICT services exports are unlikely to be impacted,” he said. “This is certainly welcome news for our sector, which is primarily service-driven.”
Bitar also emphasized Jordan’s globally competitive incentives for ICT exports, such as a 0% export tax through 2033 and a reduced 5% income tax, significantly lower than the standard 20%.
On the regulatory front, Bitar acknowledged the need for continued clarity and consistency in enforcement.
“Occasionally, some laws may lack precision, leaving room for varying interpretations. This is especially relevant in sensitive areas such as data privacy, cybersecurity, customs and taxes. That said, we have seen admirable collaboration and a strong understanding from many senior government officials, which is helping drive positive change.”
To better align academic output with market demand, int@j is currently partnering with MoDEE, DigiSkills, and Better Business on a national supply-demand analysis.
“We anticipate publishing the results within the next two months,” Bitar noted.
He also highlighted the importance of continuously enhancing soft skills and technical communication abilities to improve employability and global competitiveness.
“Many universities are increasingly incorporating English language proficiency and soft skills into their curricula, which is crucial in today’s digital-first, globally connected tech ecosystem.”
int@j supports the sector through eight strategic pillars: policy advocacy, access to information, market access, human capital development, outsourcing growth, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship & startups, and digital economy promotion.
While 40–50% of ICT graduates in Jordan are women, workforce participation remains at approximately 16–20%.
“We are actively addressing this gap through our Women’s Empowerment Unit, which works closely with companies to foster inclusive, supportive, and flexible work environments for women,” said Bitar.
Under its entrepreneurship pillar, int@j also manages the national startup portal supported by MODEE and Innovative Startups & SMEs Fund (ISSF) www.startupsjo.com, which tracks over 450 Jordanian startups and other ecosystem stakeholders. Notably, a recent study by Endeavor Saudi Arabia revealed that 22% of startup founders in Riyadh are Jordanian—a testament to Jordan’s regional influence and entrepreneurial spirit.
Bitar also emphasized the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a national priority.
“AI must be integrated into university programs across all disciplines. The stronger our talent pipeline and the more robust our educational foundation, the greater our capacity to innovate and contribute to sustainable national growth,” he explained.
He also stressed the importance of increased investment in research and development and stronger collaboration between academia and the private sector.
“Graduation projects and postgraduate research should be closely tied to real-world industry challenges. These projects have the potential to evolve into game-changing startups—and possibly even unicorns—driving significant economic value for Jordan.”
Bitar concluded by referencing the recent formation of Jordan’s National Council for Future Technology, underscoring its transformative potential:
“The directives of His Majesty King Abdullah II to establish the Council mark a pivotal step in cementing Jordan’s leadership in the tech space. Under the guidance of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, and chaired by the Prime Minister, this initiative will accelerate innovation and ensure a strategic national response to future technology trends.”