Jordan Facts and Culture

What is Jordan famous for?

• Food and Recipes: It is traditional to eat food with the right hand (not the left). Utensils are usually available at functions involving... More
• Family: Extended family shares a close relationship. Large families are traditionally desired, but family sizes are declining due to economic pressures.... More
• Fashion: Most men wear Western-style clothing, often accompanied with the traditional white or red-checkered headdress. Women also wear Western clothing, but... More
• Visiting: Guests are greeted by both husband and wife. Invited visitors may bring gifts of flowers or sweets, but never alcohol.... More
• Recreation: Children like to play football(soccer) in the parks or even in roads and in between houses. Horse and camel racing... More
• Cultural Attributes: Time is not as important in Jordan as it is in Western countries. People are more important than a regimented... More
• Dating: Jordanian society is fairly conservative in dating and marriage practices. In general, families still have a significant role in arranging... More
• Diet: Islamic law prohibits the consumption of pork and alcohol, and most Muslims are careful to obey these restrictions. Most meals... More

What is the capital of Jordan?

Capital	Amman
Government Type	parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Currency	Jordanian Dollar (JOD)
Total Area	34,495 Square Miles 89,342 Square Kilometers
Location	Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia, between Israel (to the west) and Iraq
Language	Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
GDP - real growth rate	2.9%
GDP - per capita (PPP)	$12,400.00 (USD)

What is the population of Jordan?

Ethnic Groups	Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Nationality Adjective	Jordanian
Nationality Noun	Jordanian(s)
Population	10,820,644
Population - note	note: increased estimate reflects revised assumptions about the net migration rate due to the increased flow of Syrian refugees
Population Growth Rate	0.14%
Population in Major Urban Areas	AMMAN (capital) 1.179 million
Predominant Language	Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
Urban Population	82.7%

What type of government does Jordan have?

• Executive Branch: chief of state: King ABDALLAH II (since 7 February 1999); Crown Prince HUSSEIN (born 28 June 1994), eldest son of... More
• Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal More
• Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Jordan dual citizenship recognized: yes residency requirement for... More
• National Holiday: Independence Day, 25 May (1946) More
• Constitution: previous 1928 (preindependence); latest initially adopted 28 November 1947, revised and ratified 1 January 1952; amended several times, last in... More
• Independence: 25 May 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration) More

What environmental issues does Jordan have?

• Overview: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is located in the heart of the Middle East and the Arab World. Most of... More
• Climate: Jordan's countryside offers a diversity of climate and scenery. Within easy driving distance of the capital city of Amman, one... More
• Border Countries: Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 744 km, Syria 375 km, West Bank 97 km More
• Environment - Current Issues: limited natural fresh water resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification More
• Environment - International Agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone... More
• Terrain: mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley separates East and West Banks of the Jordan... More

How big is the Jordan economy?

• Economic Overview: Jordan's economy is among the smallest in the Middle East, with insufficient supplies of water, oil, and other natural resources,... More
• Industries: phosphate mining, pharmaceuticals, petroleum refining, cement, potash, light manufacturing, tourism More
• Currency Name and Code: Jordanian Dollar (JOD) More
• Export Partners: Iraq 20.6%, US 14.9%, India 8.3%, Saudi Arabia 5.5%, UAE 4% More
• Import Partners: Iraq 13.3%, Germany 8.7%, US 7.9%, China 6%, France 4.2%, UK 4.1%, Italy 4% More

What current events are happening in Jordan?
Source: Google News

What unique things can you discover about Jordan?

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  About 25,000 of Jordan's Sunni Muslims are non-Arabs who are known as Circassians. These are the descendants of people who fled persecution in Russia in the 19th century and settled in Jordan.
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  Jordan is the only Arab country that has ended the practice of requiring young men to do compulsory military service. It abolished military service in 1991.
  
  
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  Many men like to relax after work in coffee shops where they can smoke an argeeleh, or “hubble-bubble” pipe. It gets its nickname from the bubbling sound it makes when the smoke is inhaled through a water trap and up a hose.
  
  
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  In 1978 King Hussein married an American of Syrian heritage, Lisa Halaby. She took the name Noor al-Hussein (Light of Hussein) when she converted to Islam.
• An interesting Jordanian craft is the packing of colored sand into bottles. Each layer is carefully added to form geometric or floral designs. Tiny funnels and brushes are used to place the grains of sand precisely. When finished, the bottle is stopped with a cork.
  
  
• Body language is different from that in Canada. For example, to signal "no" a Jordanian will raise his head sharply, eyebrows raised, sometimes with closed eyes and a clicking of the tongue. To signal "yes" he will nod his head downward to one side.
• Jordan has the world's lowest suicide rate at 0.04 per 1,000 people.
• Jordanian women are encouraged to further their education and pursue careers. Most working women are employed in government offices, banks, schools, or hospitals.
  
  
• The concept of privacy is alien to Jordanians; the closest word in Arabic translates into the English word "loneliness." An old proverb says, "Where there are no people, there is hell."
  
  
• The Dead Sea, on Jordan's western border, is the lowest point on earth at 400 meters below sea level, as well as being the saltiest body of water in the world. Tourists flock to the sea to float in the extremely buoyant water - it's impossible to sink due to the salt.
• The Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts features singing, painting, dancing, bands, poetry, plays and handicrafts, and is a popular attraction for tourists and Jordanians alike. Other festivals include the Fuhais Festival (cultural/arts), the Wadi Rum Hot Air Balloon Festival and the Aqaba Sports Festival.
• Petra was the capital city of the Nabataeans, a tribe of pre-Roman Arabs who dominated the region around the Sixth century BC. Located at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, the city survived on toll and taxes collected from traders. Despite several attempts to conquer their capital, the Nabataeans remained practically independent until the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra and the reunification of the Roman Empire by Octavian in 31 BC. In 106, the Romans under Trajan finally captured Petra to mark the beginning of the decline of the city. The city remained unknown to the Western World for hundreds of years until a Swiss explorer, J.L. Burckhardt, heard about its existence from the local Bedouins in 1812.
  
  The Nabataeans carved their Capital in the canyons and hills of sandstone of Wadi Araba in Jordan. The entrance to the city is through The Alley (Al-Siq), a winding trail at the bottom of the canyon. Most famous is The Treasury (Al Khazneh). Its fascinating façade has been fea

What can you learn about Jordan in this video?

Petra YouTube: Unesco

What makes Jordan a unique country to travel to?

Country Description

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a developing economy and a modern infrastructure. Western culture features prominently in the lives of many Jordanians. At the same time, traditional Islamic ideals and beliefs provide a conservative foundation for the country's customs, laws, and practices. Businesses and facilities catering to tourists are widely available, although quality may vary depending on price and location.

Crime

Statistically, petty crime is the most common form that U.S. citizens and other Western nationals experience in Jordan, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Pickpockets, purse snatchers, and opportunistic thieves are known to target foreigners in the narrow and crowded streets of the older parts of Amman’s city center. Travelers should be more guarded in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan to lessen the likelihood of becoming a victim of petty thefts. Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs, as thieves have reportedly preyed upon persons soon after using these services.

Women from Western countries visiting and residing in Jordan have periodically reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, and indecent exposure. The Embassy continues to receive a limited number of reports regarding incidents of sexual assaults involving taxis and taxi drivers. Many of the incidents have involved verbal sexual harassment, staring, or following the victim, but some have included physical assaults. To decrease the likelihood of being victimized while using a taxi, foreign women should take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, not traveling alone, not riding in the front seat of a taxi, and dressing modestly when in public. We also recommend carrying a cellular telephone at all times and immediately reporting incidents to the police.

Violent crime is infrequent and rarely targets U.S. citizens or other Westerners. In the past, the Embassy has received reports of firearms being discharged at vehicles being driven by Westerners. A dispute between two rival protection rackets led to shots being fired at multiple nightclubs, bars, liquor stores, and similar establishments in March 2011. While not common, thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery, and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootleg copies illegal in the United States, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Criminal Penalties

While you are traveling in Jordan, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. In some places driving under the influence can land you in jail. Criminal penalties will vary from country to country. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Jordan, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not wherever you go.

The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press; however, in practice the government has imposed some restrictions on these rights. In particular, insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detainment or imprisonment. Additionally, activities that the Jordanian government considers proselytizing to Muslims are forbidden under the law and anyone undertaking these activities are subject to prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation.

While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained overseas.

Medical Facilities and Health Information

Modern medical care and medicines are generally available in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas. Most acute and chronic medical conditions can be appropriately handled. When called, ambulance vehicles are often slow to arrive and personnel generally have only a basic level of training. Seasonal dust storms that envelop the country for days or weeks each spring may significantly aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or sinus problems. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially in Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services. Because serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States could cost over US $150,000, we strongly advise travelers to carry medical evacuation insurance.

Travelers should take normal precautions against contracting the flu, including frequent handwashing and covering sneezes. It is a good idea to postpone traveling while ill.

Safety and Security

The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan. Transnational and indigenous terrorist groups have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks in Jordan. In August 2010, a roadside improvised explosive device (IED) detonated next to a vehicle carrying three USG contractors as it was traveling through an Amman suburb; the contractors did not suffer any serious injuries. In January 2010, an official Israeli motorcade was struck by an IED as it was traveling from Amman to the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge border crossing; passengers in the vehicles were unharmed and the vehicles sustained minor damage. Several rockets believed to have been launched from the Sinai Peninsula struck the port city of Aqaba in April and August 2010. In the latter attack, one rocket destroyed a taxi cab outside of a hotel, killing the driver.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. In October 2012 the Jordanian government foiled a terrorist plot, arresting a number of Al-Qaeda operatives targeting public areas and the U.S. Embassy in Amman. Travelers to Jordan should be cognizant of the fact that Al-Qaida in Iraq affiliates have carried out terrorist activities against U.S. and Government of Jordan (GOJ) targets in Jordan.

Terrorists often do not distinguish between U.S. government personnel and private U.S. citizens. Terrorists may target areas frequented by Westerners, such as tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, shopping malls, transportation hubs, places of worship, expatriate residential areas, and schools. In light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of their surroundings, and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. It is especially important for travelers to be unpredictable in their movements by varying their times and routes and maintaining a low profile. Moreover, U.S. citizens should avoid contact with any suspicious or unfamiliar objects and immediately report the presence of such objects to local authorities. U.S. government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions.

Demonstrations are common. Some, especially smaller ones, have turned violent, leading security officials to intercede. Because demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence, travelers should avoid all protests and large gatherings of people. Many demonstrations occur on Fridays near mosques following noon prayers. Consequently, you should exercise special sensitivity and caution when visiting or traveling near mosques and religious sites during holy days and Fridays. Demonstrations and other forms of unrest have occurred on public university campuses in Jordan. Some acts of violence on university campuses have involved the use of firearms. Anti-U.S. demonstrations have also taken place in front of the U.S. Embassy. Travelers should avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people.

Tribal violence in Jordan remains a concern. Clashes between feuding clans or families periodically erupt without notice and sometimes involve an escalation in violence, including the use of firearms. In some cases, Jordanian security services are slow to respond or may opt to let the violence subside before intervening. When necessary, authorities have closed major roads, including a key road near Amman’s international airport, or parts of cities to contain the violence.

U.S. citizens should avoid the border area with Syria. Police and security officials have arrested weapons and drug smugglers, as well as foreign fighters attempting to enter Syria to fight in the country’s ongoing civil war. Some riots have occurred at the Ramtha/Jaber border crossing, resulting in the burning of key municipal facilities. The Department of State also advises against travel into Iraq.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions

While in Jordan, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Jordan is provided for general reference only and may not be completely accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

U.S. Embassy Amman has advised its employees to avoid driving at night outside the Amman metropolitan area due to road conditions, poorly lit rural roads, and erratic behavior by other drivers.

It is typical for drivers in Jordan to not signal turns or lane changes. Drivers can also be aggressive, and cars operate very closely together on the highways. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from December to March. Driving in Amman is also more hazardous in the summer months of June to September when Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highways are more crowded around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits. Poor lighting and road conditions prevail, so extra caution must be exercised at all times, especially when driving at night.

The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, a popular tourist destination, is particularly dangerous because it is narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. If possible, you should try to avoid this area at night. When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should be aware of both unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions between livestock and automobiles are common.

As a result of all these factors, traffic accidents are very frequent and continue to be the largest cause of injury and death in Jordan. Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts, and all cars must have a fire extinguisher and warning triangle in the vehicle. Child car seats are not required by law. Violators of speed limits may be assessed fines up to US $140. Police routinely pull over reckless drivers as well as those believed to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Talking on a cell phone while driving is officially prohibited, although the practice is common. If stopped by police, drivers may face a fine. Licensed drivers must carry local third-party insurance with sufficient coverage for accidents resulting in injury or death. Drivers who are involved in an accident should remain at the scene and immediately call the police and emergency personnel in case injuries have occurred. Police may hold the driver’s license or passport in order to prevent the driver from fleeing. Identification documents can be recovered at the police station.

Landmines are often located within two miles of military installations and borders, including the popular Dead Sea area. Minefields are usually fenced off and marked with skull-and-crossbones notices, but the fences and signs may be in poor repair or hard to see. Avoiding these areas reduces the risk of accidentally setting off a mine.

Jordan has abundant bus and taxi services. Please see the Crime section for more information about incidents of sexual harassment and assault involving taxi drivers and important safety tips when using public or private transportation in Jordan. Visitors should arrange for their transportation needs via their hotel and should request that drivers not pick up additional passengers en route to their destinations. We do not recommend other forms of public transportation. Jordanian security authorities often establish checkpoints, especially on roads leading to popular tourist destinations, where drivers are expected to stop and present their identity documents. All drivers should stop when directed to do so and comply with the instructions provided to them by the authorities.

Emergencies should be referred to the Civil Defense Department at telephone number 199. Visit the website of Jordan’sMinistry of Tourism and Antiquities. For information on driving regulations, please contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, by telephone at (202) 966-2664.