Digital Payments and Mobile Wallets in Jordan: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The global financial landscape has undergone significant transformation due to the rapid advancement of digital technologies, with digital payments and mobile wallets emerging as key drivers of financial inclusion and economic development. This systematic literature review (SLR) examines the adoption, challenges, and implications of digital payments and mobile wallets in Jordan, a middle-income country with a growing Fintech ecosystem. Despite the country's progress in digital infrastructure and government efforts to promote cashless transactions, adoption remains uneven due to barriers such as limited digital literacy, cultural preferences for cash, and security concerns. This study employs a three-step SLR methodology, analyzing 20 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2024, to identify trends, adoption drivers, and socio-economic impacts of digital payments in Jordan. Key findings reveal that digital payment systems are increasingly embraced, particularly among younger, tech-savvy populations, with the COVID-19
pandemic accelerating adoption. Factors such as perceived usefulness, ease of use,
trust, and government support facilitate adoption, while cybersecurity risks and
cultural resistance hinder it. The review highlights the role of digital payments in
enhancing financial inclusion, particularly for unbanked and underbanked populations, and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, gaps in the literature, such as the need for longitudinal studies and deeper exploration of cultural factors, are identified. This review provides actionable insights for
policymakers, financial institutions, and technology providers to promote digital
financial inclusion and economic development in Jordan.