By:Jordan Daily
Jordan Daily – Dr. Mohammad Abu Hammour, a distinguished economist and accomplished person, has left an indelible mark on Jordan’s economic landscape. With an impressive academic background and extensive practical experience, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s financial policies and promoting economic growth.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Abu Hammour is recognized for his commitment to social progress and his unwavering belief in the power of skill development.
Dr. Abu Hammour’s journey of intellectual pursuit began with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Yarmouk University in 1984. Despite having the opportunity to study medicine or engineering due to his outstanding high school grades, he willingly chose economics as his field of specialization. His exceptional academic performance granted him the privilege of working at the Central Bank of Jordan , where he gained invaluable experience and laid the foundation for his illustrious career.
Continuing his educational journey, Dr. Abu Hammour obtained a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Jordan in 1989. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Economics/Finance from the University of Surrey in Britain, which he successfully completed in 1997. Equipped with comprehensive expertise, he embarked on a path that would solidify his reputation as a leading expert in the field.
Dr. Abu Hammour’s influence on Jordan’s economic landscape spans various high-ranking positions he has held over the years. From 2003 to 2005, he served as the Minister of Finance, effectively managing the country’s financial affairs during a critical period. This accomplishment earned him the esteemed Finance Minister of the Year in the Middle East in both 2004 and 2010.
Furthermore, he made significant contributions as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Arab Potash Company and the Executive Privatization Commission.These roles allowed him to shape economic policies, foster growth, and attract investments to Jordan. His dynamic leadership and strategic vision played a pivotal role in advancing the country’s economic agenda.
Beyond his financial acumen, Dr. Abu Hammour has demonstrated his versatility as a leader. His affiliation with the Arab Thought Forum, where he served as the Secretary General, showcased his ability to engage with elite Arab thinkers and contribute to intellectual discourse. This forum, under the guidance of Prince El Hassan bin Talal , became a platform for innovative ideas and collective efforts to address regional challenges.
Dr. Abu Hammour’s current position as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Safwa Islamic Bank underscores his continued dedication to the financial sector. Additionally, he founded Al-Salam Financial Investments Company, further solidifying his reputation as an entrepreneur and visionary.
With a steadfast belief in the transformative power of economics, Dr. Abu Hammour emphasizes the importance of addressing the difficulties and challenges facing Jordan. He advocates for improving citizens’ standard of living, creating employment opportunities, and combatting unemployment and poverty. Driven by this vision, he supports the economic initiatives launched by His Majesty the King, which focus on tangible improvements in citizens’ quality of life.
Recognizing the changing dynamics of the job market, he advises young individuals to prioritize skill acquisition over formal qualifications. He highlights that the world, including Jordan, is undergoing a paradigm shift, with skills becoming increasingly valuable in the face of technological advancements. Armed with this knowledge, he encourages the youth to equip themselves with relevant skills to navigate the evolving job landscape successfully.
Dr. Abu Hammour commends Jordan’s resilience in overcoming local and global challenges. Through a commitment to implementing economic reforms across various sectors, the country has managed to maintain stability. Notable achievements include positive signs in sectors like tourism and exports, prudent monetary policies that ensure exchange rate stability, and the maintenance of adequate foreign currency reserves.
Commenting on the political landscape, he believes that Syria’s return to the Arab League represents a significant development in the region. He views this as an opportunity to redirect efforts towards local developmental issues and contribute to regional stability. However, he acknowledges the challenges Jordan has faced due to the Syrian crisis, including the impact of the refugee influx, disrupted trade routes, and increased costs of imports.
Dr. Abu Hammour’s upbringing in a conservative, religiously committed environment has instilled in him a balanced perspective, avoiding puritanical approaches in both work and behavior. His unwavering dedication to economic development, commitment to skill enhancement, and deep-rooted belief in social progress continue to drive his endeavors.
