Jordan – Property Letting

How does the property letting process work in Jordan?

The legal foundation for Jordan’s rental sector rests on the Landlord and Tenant Law No. 11 of 1994 and its subsequent amendments, designed to foster a balanced rental environment that upholds the rights of both property owners and those who rent from them. The law has been revised on two occasions — in 2000 and 2011 — and must be read alongside the Jordanian Civil Code, which supplies additional governing provisions. Landlords need to be conversant with both sources of legislation.

From a practical standpoint, the letting process typically begins with marketing the property. Landlords in Jordan most commonly list on digital platforms such as OpenSooq and Bayut Jordan, as well as on social media channels, in local print media, and through personal networks. Letting agents are a popular choice — especially in Amman and other urban centres — and can manage everything from promotion and tenant screening through to contract preparation.

Tenant screening in Jordan is largely conducted on an informal basis, given the absence of any centralised referencing infrastructure. Prospective landlords generally request identification documents, evidence of employment or income, and personal references. No national tenancy register comparable to those found in several European countries currently exists in Jordan.

Any rental arrangement must be memorialised in a written lease agreement between the owner and occupant; ideally this agreement should also be recorded against the property title. Unlike legal systems where an oral arrangement can carry enforceable weight, Jordan places a firm emphasis on the written contract as the instrument that safeguards both parties and provides a basis for resolving any disagreement.

The lease agreement must set out clearly the duration, the rental amount, and the schedule and method of payment. Contracts can be fixed-term or open-ended, with renewal arrangements agreed by both parties. One-year terms are the most prevalent in the Jordanian market, giving both landlords and tenants a degree of certainty.

A well-drafted lease in Jordan will typically address: the period of the tenancy and conditions for extension or renewal; the allocation of maintenance and repair responsibilities; notice periods required by either side ahead of termination or non-renewal; the handling of utilities, specifying which are bundled into the rent and which remain the tenant’s direct responsibility; and any rules concerning pets or other occupancy conditions.

Any dispute arising from a tenancy contract that cannot be settled between the parties is heard by the magistrate court, which has jurisdiction over all such matters irrespective of the rent level specified in the agreement. Landlords should familiarise themselves with this forum from the outset.

What types of rental arrangements are available in Jordan?

Jordan’s lettings market spans long-term residential tenancies, short-term furnished arrangements, and holiday or serviced accommodation. Each category carries different expectations, and the legal framework treats them with varying levels of formality.

Long-term residential letting — typically on a fixed term of one year or more — represents the most common form of renting in Jordan. Some owners offer two- or three-year agreements where occupants prefer greater stability. These tenancies fall firmly within the scope of the Landlord and Tenant Law No. 11 of 1994, which provides the most comprehensive protections for both sides.

Short-term rentals — on weekly or monthly terms — are present in the market but are less widespread. They tend to attract a higher per-unit cost and are favoured by relocating professionals, visiting students, and those on extended stays. While the basic requirement for a written agreement still applies, the parties enjoy more room to negotiate terms that depart from the standard annual format.

Holiday and platform-based letting — through services such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and local equivalents — has expanded in Jordan, particularly in Amman, Aqaba, and areas close to Petra. Jordan does not at present have a comprehensive national regulatory framework specifically addressing short-term holiday lets comparable to the licensing regimes introduced in certain European cities. Nevertheless, properties operated commercially for short-stay guest accommodation may attract different tax treatment and, in some localities, may require approval from the relevant municipality or the tourism authority. Landlords are strongly advised to liaise with their local municipality and with the Jordan Tourism Board before advertising a property on any short-term rental platform, as the regulatory landscape in this area is continuing to develop. It is also worth noting that a tenant or property sub-lessor is not entitled to sublease the leased premises — or any portion thereof — without the explicit written consent of the original owner, making it essential that any underlying mortgage or head-lease does not prohibit such activity.

What rental income can landlords expect in Jordan, and how are rates set?

Achievable rents in Jordan differ considerably according to the property’s location, size, condition, and available amenities. Researching the local market thoroughly and taking account of demand patterns and prevailing trends is essential before setting a rental figure. There is no government-maintained residential rent index, so owners must draw on market comparisons to price their property competitively.

While Jordan stops short of imposing rigid rent controls, any increases must nonetheless be consistent with legal requirements and be proportionate. Under the legislation as amended, a rent revision or revaluation is only possible with the written agreement of both the landlord and the tenant. This means that a landlord cannot impose a mid-tenancy rent rise unilaterally — any adjustment to the agreed figure requires the tenant’s documented consent or, where agreement is not reached, a court application.

Beyond what is specified in the contract, no additional charges may be added to the agreed rent — the contractual amount is the amount that governs the tenancy. This is an important distinction from certain other markets where service charges or supplementary levies can be introduced without mutual agreement.

Rent cannot be unilaterally raised unless the mechanism for doing so is explicitly set out in the original lease. Landlords who anticipate wanting to adjust the rent at renewal are therefore advised to include a clear rent review clause when the contract is first executed. For current market data on rental values across Amman, Zarqa, Irbid, and Aqaba, consult the Department of Lands and Survey (DLS) and established local property portals.

Do landlords need to provide a furnished or unfurnished property in Jordan?

Choosing between offering a property furnished or unfurnished is a meaningful decision when entering the Jordanian rental market. The appropriate choice often depends on the type of property and the profile of tenants being targeted. Furnished accommodation tends to appeal to short-term renters, expatriates, and students, while longer-term tenants commonly prefer the flexibility of an unfurnished space they can equip according to their own preferences.

A furnished property includes furniture, white goods, and sometimes kitchen items and tableware, offering occupants the convenience of moving in without major purchasing commitments. Monthly rents for furnished properties are typically higher to reflect the included contents, and lease durations may be shorter than for unfurnished equivalents.

There is no legislative obligation in Jordan requiring residential landlords to furnish their properties. Whatever level of furnishing is offered, however, it must be clearly described in the tenancy agreement, accompanied by a comprehensive inventory of all items provided. This inventory forms part of the contract and is particularly significant when determining what deductions, if any, are appropriate from the security deposit at the end of the tenancy. Clarifying the agreed furnishing standard with the tenant before contracts are signed is the most effective way to prevent future disagreements.

Furnishing levels do not currently create a distinct rental classification or alter the basic income tax treatment of rental receipts in Jordan, though municipally operated furnished holiday lets used commercially may attract closer scrutiny. Landlords of furnished properties should retain receipts for the items supplied, as property-related expenditure may be deductible against rental income — a qualified tax adviser with knowledge of the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD) guidelines should be consulted for current rules.

Do you need a licence or registration to let a property in Jordan?

Jordan does not operate a single national licensing regime for landlords. Local rules, however, differ between areas, and certain municipalities or regions may have their own registration or notification obligations that landlords are required to fulfil.

Some of Jordan’s municipalities require property owners to register their rental premises. Such registration typically serves to confirm that properties meet minimum standards and that both parties to the tenancy understand their respective obligations. In practice, the requirements differ across Amman, Irbid, Aqaba, Zarqa, and other governorates, so checking with the relevant local authority before commencing a letting is essential.

Properties situated within the Aqaba Special Economic Zone are subject to a distinct set of regulations administered by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), which maintains its own land and property framework. Foreign owners with property in Aqaba should contact ASEZA directly to obtain up-to-date guidance on registration and letting conditions.

Short-term holiday lets and serviced accommodation may require additional permits from the relevant municipality or from the Jordan Tourism Board. Property owners are advised to consult local authorities or qualified legal professionals to determine precisely what obligations apply to their specific property, and to monitor developments since local regulations in this space can evolve.

How do you obtain a landlord licence or register as a landlord in Jordan?

Since no single national landlord licence exists in Jordan, registration — where it is required — is administered at the level of the local municipality. The steps outlined below reflect general good practice and the approach followed in most Jordanian municipalities. Always verify the current requirements with your local authority or an experienced Jordanian lawyer, as applicable fees and procedures are subject to change.

1. Confirm local requirements. Contact your local municipality (e.g., Greater Amman Municipality, Irbid Municipality) to establish whether property registration or landlord notification is required in your area. Requirements vary significantly by location.
2. Gather ownership documentation. Obtain a certified copy of your property title deed from the Department of Lands and Survey (DLS). The DLS has sole authority for validating land transactions and overseeing land registration in Jordan under the Administrative Organisation Regulation No. 27 of 2024.
3. Prepare identification documents. Non-resident foreign owners will typically need a valid passport and, where applicable, a power of attorney document authorising a local representative to act on their behalf.
4. Submit a property registration form. At the relevant municipality office, complete any required landlord or rental property registration form, attaching the title deed, identification, and details of the intended tenancy.
5. Pay any applicable fees. Municipal registration fees are set locally and can vary. Check the official website for your municipality or attend in person to confirm current fee levels, as these change periodically.
6. Register the tenancy contract. The lease agreement should be in the form of a written contract, which would preferably be registered on the title to the property. Registering the tenancy provides legal certainty and is particularly recommended for long-term lettings.
7. Obtain any additional permits for short-term or holiday lets. If operating a short-term rental, contact the Jordan Tourism Board and your local municipality for any additional licensing requirements before listing the property.

What are the rules around deposits in Jordan?

Security deposits are a well-established feature of the Jordanian rental market, serving to protect landlords against damage to the property or arrears of rent. The prevailing market practice is for landlords to collect a deposit of between one and three months’ rent. The conditions governing the deposit — including the circumstances in which deductions may be made and the timeline for repayment — should be spelled out in full within the tenancy agreement.

Unlike the United Kingdom and Ireland, where statutory deposit protection schemes require funds to be held by an independent custodian, Jordan does not currently operate any centralised deposit protection arrangement (as of 2024). Deposits are ordinarily retained directly by the landlord, which makes it all the more important that every aspect of the deposit terms — permissible deductions, return deadlines, and dispute procedures — is set out clearly in the written contract.

Once the tenancy concludes, tenants are entitled to the return of their deposit, less any legitimate deductions for damage that goes beyond ordinary wear and tear. Deductions attributable solely to normal use of the property are not allowable. Property condition reports — documenting the state of the premises at the start of the tenancy through photographs and written descriptions agreed and signed by both parties — are widely used in Jordan and provide an invaluable reference point when assessing whether any end-of-tenancy deductions are justified.

National legislation in Jordan does not currently impose a statutory cap on the deposit amount (as of 2024), though the market norm of one to three months’ rent is broadly observed. Landlords should seek up-to-date advice from a local lawyer or their municipality, as this position may change.

Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs in Jordan?

Article 684 of Jordan’s Civil Code establishes that a landlord must not interfere with the tenant’s use and enjoyment of the leased property during the period of the tenancy. This provision underpins the broader obligation on landlords to keep the property in a condition that allows it to be occupied for its intended purpose throughout the lease.

The rental unit should be safe, in sound condition, and served by functioning utilities. Ensuring the property remains liveable and addressing necessary repairs falls to the landlord, who bears responsibility for structural elements, major systems such as plumbing, electrical installations, and heating, and any defects that undermine the property’s fitness for its intended use.

By signing the tenancy agreement, the tenant confirms that they have inspected the property and found it suitable for its intended purpose, and accepts an obligation to preserve and care for it without making unauthorised alterations — any breach of this obligation renders the tenant liable for resulting costs. Day-to-day minor upkeep, general cleanliness, and proper care of any furnished items supplied by the landlord are therefore the tenant’s responsibility.

Any improvements, alterations, or fixtures installed by the tenant are carried out entirely at the tenant’s expense. On departure, the landlord may elect to retain such additions without charge or may require the tenant to reinstate the property to its original state at the tenant’s cost. This differs from the approach in certain other jurisdictions — notably Germany, where renovation obligations are tightly regulated — and should be expressly addressed in the tenancy contract.

Failure to supply water and electricity to the leased premises deprives the tenant of the benefit of the property; in line with the Civil Code, this entitles the tenant to rescind the lease and vacate — and the landlord forfeits the right to rent for any period during which the property cannot be properly used as a result of the landlord’s default.

How are letting agents used in Jordan, and what do they charge?

Real estate agents and property management firms play a meaningful role in Jordan’s lettings market. Their services typically cover marketing the property, identifying and screening prospective tenants, reviewing or drafting the tenancy agreement, and acting as an intermediary between owner and occupant. For non-resident foreign landlords, a comprehensive property management arrangement — encompassing rent collection, maintenance coordination, and ongoing tenant communication — is frequently indispensable.

Agent fees in Jordan are not governed by national legislation in the manner of, for example, the United Kingdom’s Tenant Fees Act 2019, which prohibited most charges being levied on tenants. In Jordan, fee structures are largely determined by market practice. As of 2024, it is common for an agent’s fee to amount to approximately one month’s rent, or a percentage of the annual rental — typically in the range of 2.5% to 5% — payable by the landlord upon a successful letting. In practice, fees may be shared between landlord and tenant, or borne entirely by one party, depending on local custom and individual negotiation.

For ongoing property management services, monthly fees generally fall between around 5% and 10% of the rent collected, though rates vary between firms and cities. Prospective landlords are advised to obtain quotes from several agencies and check references before making an appointment, as no central regulatory body publishes standardised fee schedules. Comparing multiple agents before committing is the most effective way to ensure value for money.

What taxes apply to rental income in Jordan?

All income earned by individuals in or derived from Jordan — including rental receipts — is subject to Jordanian tax unless a specific exemption applies. This obligation extends to both resident and non-resident landlords who earn income from property situated in Jordan; non-residents are assessed on their Jordan-sourced income.

Rental income is classified as ordinary income and charged at the standard individual rates. Whether the owner resides in Jordan or abroad, Jordanian rental income is taxed on a progressive scale running from 5% to 30% (as of 2024). The effective rate payable depends on the property’s location and type, as well as the owner’s total income from all sources. Certain property-related expenses may qualify as deductions, so engaging a local tax professional to optimise the tax position is advisable.

A separate municipal property tax also applies. This is a local tax levied at approximately 15% of the property’s estimated annual rental value (as of 2024), with that value being reassessed by the tax authorities every five years. The amount paid as property tax may be set off against the income tax liability arising on the same property.

Foreign nationals residing in Jordan are treated as tax residents if they spend more than 183 days in the country during a given tax year. The Jordanian tax year corresponds to the calendar year, and tax returns must be submitted by 30 April. The authority responsible for administering income and sales taxes is the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD). Non-resident landlords should note that their obligation to declare and pay Jordanian income tax on rental receipts exists regardless of where they are physically based. Current rates, filing procedures, and allowable deductions can be found on the ISTD official website.

Losses may be carried forward indefinitely to be set against future profits, provided they are supported by appropriate accounting records, acknowledged by the tax assessor, and connected to a taxable source of income. Given the complexity of the tax position for foreign nationals — particularly with regard to allowable deductions and the application of any double taxation treaty — consulting a qualified Jordanian tax adviser is strongly recommended.

What are the rules around ending a tenancy or evicting a tenant in Jordan?

A landlord has no right to remove a tenant without recognised legal grounds — such as persistent non-payment of rent or a material breach of the tenancy contract. Occupants cannot be compelled to leave without proper legal justification and appropriate notice. Jordan’s framework leans broadly in favour of tenant protection on this point, reflecting the historical influence of earlier tenancy legislation that afforded occupants considerable security of tenure.

The 2011 Law was enacted to strengthen and clarify the rules governing the relationship between landlord and tenant, amending provisions relating to rent, its reassessment, and required notice periods. Specifically, Article 1 of the 2011 Law abolished the fixed eviction deadlines that had previously operated, meaning a landlord can no longer simply serve a deadline for vacating the premises without a legally recognised ground for doing so.

Where a tenant fails to pay rent on the due date, the contract may be subject to automatic termination — but only if this consequence is expressly stated in the agreement and the correct legal notice procedure has been followed. The landlord must serve a formal notice before taking any action, and any eventual eviction requires a formal court process conducted through the magistrate court.

The law also provides that, where a specific clause to this effect appears in the tenancy contract, a landlord may seek possession on the ground of requiring the property for personal occupation — provided the landlord does not currently reside in the same area and has no other housing unit available there. This owner-occupation ground must be expressly inserted into the tenancy contract in order to be relied upon later.

Compared with certain other jurisdictions — for instance, many common-law countries where a no-fault notice can be served once a fixed term expires — Jordan’s eviction process is more legally intensive and dependent on court intervention. Landlords should instruct a qualified Jordanian lawyer before initiating any formal possession process to ensure full procedural compliance.

What should expat landlords know about managing property remotely in Jordan?

Running a rental property in Jordan from overseas is legally permissible and by no means unusual, but it demands careful planning and the support of reliable local professionals. The principal practical and legal considerations are outlined below.

Power of attorney: Non-resident landlords will almost invariably need to authorise a trusted local representative through a notarised power of attorney. This instrument empowers the representative to execute contracts, collect rent, correspond with tenants and public bodies, and conduct legal proceedings on the landlord’s behalf. The document should be prepared by a Jordanian lawyer and, if executed outside Jordan, must typically be apostilled or otherwise legalised before it will be recognised by Jordanian authorities.

Property management companies: Engaging a reputable local property management firm is the most effective approach to day-to-day oversight of the property. A capable manager will handle rent collection, maintenance requests, tenant communications, and routine regulatory compliance. Since letting agent and management fees are not subject to central regulation in Jordan, expat landlords should obtain several quotes and seek references before appointing a firm.

Tax compliance: Non-residents are assessable on their Jordan-sourced income, and the duty to file and pay Jordanian income tax on rental receipts applies regardless of the landlord’s physical location. Non-resident landlords should ensure they are registered with the ISTD and are meeting their annual filing obligations by the 30 April deadline. In many cases, a locally based accountant or representative can prepare and submit the annual return on the landlord’s behalf.

Repatriating rental income: Jordan generally permits non-resident investors to transfer funds — including rental proceeds — out of the country in line with the Investment Law. This is, however, conditional on tax compliance; outstanding liabilities may complicate or delay fund transfers. Landlords should verify the current position with a Jordanian bank and legal adviser, as currency transfer regulations and banking requirements are subject to change.

The Department of Lands and Survey Law No. 27 of 2024 strengthens the legal framework governing land records and transactions and reinforces the security of land ownership and dispute resolution, affording non-resident owners greater confidence in their property rights. Keeping abreast of such legislative developments is important for anyone overseeing Jordanian property from abroad.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-resident own and let property in Jordan?

Yes, foreign nationals can own and let residential property in Jordan, subject to eligibility rules under the Property Ownership Law No. 13 of 2019, which consolidates multiple property ownership laws, contributes to legal clarity, and facilitates foreign investment in real estate. Non-residents are taxed on their Jordan-sourced rental income and must comply with local tenancy and tax laws. It is strongly advisable to engage a Jordanian lawyer before purchasing and letting property.

Do I need a local agent to let my property in Jordan?

There is no legal requirement to use a local letting agent for long-term residential lets. However, for non-resident landlords, appointing a local agent or property manager is highly practical and often essential for day-to-day management, legal compliance, and tenant relations. For short-term or holiday lets, local expertise in navigating municipal permit requirements is particularly valuable.

Is there rent control in Jordan?

Jordan does not impose strict rent controls, but increases must follow legal guidelines and be reasonable. Under the law, rent can only be revised after obtaining the approval of both the landlord and the tenant. Mid-tenancy increases cannot be imposed unilaterally, and any increase agreed at renewal should be documented in writing.

How much security deposit can I charge in Jordan?

Security deposits are standard practice in Jordan, and landlords typically collect a deposit equivalent to one to three months’ rent (as of 2024). There is no statutory national cap at this time, but deposits beyond three months’ rent are uncommon in the market. There is no government-backed deposit protection scheme, so terms must be clearly written into the tenancy contract.

How is rental income taxed in Jordan for a foreign landlord?

Non-resident landlords are taxed on their Jordan-sourced rental income. The applicable individual income tax rate ranges from 5% to 30% on a progressive scale (as of 2024). A separate municipal property tax of approximately 15% of the estimated annual rental value also applies and may be offset against the income tax liability. Consult the ISTD and a local tax adviser for current rules.

What are the legal grounds for evicting a tenant in Jordan?

Landlords cannot evict tenants without legal grounds such as non-payment of rent or contract violations. Other grounds include the landlord needing to occupy the property personally (if this clause is included in the contract) or significant breach of lease terms. All evictions ultimately require court proceedings through the magistrate court. Self-help evictions — changing locks or removing belongings — are not permitted.

Is Airbnb or short-term letting regulated in Jordan?

Jordan does not yet have a comprehensive national framework specifically regulating short-term holiday lets through platforms like Airbnb (as of 2024). However, commercially operated short-term accommodation may require municipal permits, and properties in Aqaba fall under separate ASEZA rules. Landlords should check with their local municipality and the Jordan Tourism Board before listing a property on short-term platforms, as requirements are evolving.

What happens if a tenant refuses to leave at the end of the tenancy in Jordan?

If a tenant refuses to vacate at the end of a tenancy, the landlord must pursue a formal court process through the magistrate court to obtain a possession order. The magistrate court is the assigned court for all disputes that emerge from lease contracts in Jordan, regardless of the rental value. Landlords should instruct a Jordanian lawyer promptly if a tenant refuses to leave, as self-help remedies are illegal and could expose the landlord to liability.