Marriage in Jordan: Impact of rising golds price on “Mahr”

The rising prices of gold in Jordan are having a significant impact on “Mahr” – a distinct form of dowry which is a legal obligation for all Islamic marriages. 

As gold prices keep climbing globally and in Jordan, many prospective couples and their families struggle to meet the high costs of marriage. 

This increase in gold prices leads to higher Mahr costs, imposing a considerable financial burden on many families. It may also delay marriages or lead to changes in customs and traditions, with families starting to reduce the amount of gold required or seeking less expensive alternatives due to financial capacities.

A source from the the General Syndicate For Owners Of Trade Shops And Jewelry Craftsmen (JJSJO) told Roya that the local market's buying and selling activity is very weak, noting that the activity has declined by up to 70 percent compared to during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said that during the first six months of this year, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stamped approximately 3,168 kilograms of gold in coins and bullion, compared to 58 tons and 600 kilograms in the same period last year.

Regarding the average prices of gold sets, the source added that the cheapest gold set weighing about 35.5 grams currently costs around 2,000 Jordanian dinars with the current price increase.