Study offers insight into monthly spending of households

AMMAN – The start of the holy month of Ramadan, coinciding with Mother's Day, will bring additional expenses to many Jordanians.

A recent study launched by Erem Business, a media agency specialising in economics, business and stock markets, revealed that 39 per cent of Jordanians spend their entire monthly salary by the first week of the month. 

The study was launched in February, covering 13 Arab countries.  

“Over 94 per cent of employees in Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Jordan, respectively, finish their entire monthly income by the third week of the month,” the study added. 

This year the holy month of Ramadan is expected to begin on March 23, with Mother's Day falling two days earlier on March 21. 

Ramadan, the fasting month for Muslims, increases household spendings for each family, adding to their monthly bill, among other expenses covering gifts and family gatherings. Mother's day is also another celebration including other familial expenses.

For Mohammad Ladqani, a Jordanian, although bills mount during the holy month he assures that everything goes as planned in addition to securing “a special gift” for his mother.

“Mother’s Day is a very special occasion for my mum. I have to bring her a nice ‘thank you’ gift for all the things she has done,” Ladqani added. 

Hana Mahasneh, another Jordanian, said that taking into consideration Ramadan’s expenses, she is planning to celebrate Mother's Day this year “with a simple cake with her family”.

Abdel Raheem Jazazi, another citizen said that although he is prioritising his savings, “I know for a fact that I will borrow money by the end of the month”.