About Jordan

Tucked in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan stands as a beacon of stability, heritage, and hospitality. With a captivating blend of ancient wonders, welcoming people, and clear Arabic dialect, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is not only a travel gem but also one of the best places in the world to learn Arabic. We will expand information about facts about Jordan.

Jordan – The Country

Introduction to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan:

Jordan is a constitutional monarchy officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. It is led by King Abdullah II, a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad through the Hashemite family.

Location:

Jordan is strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe. It shares borders with Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, and Palestine. This makes it a vital part of the geopolitical and cultural landscape of countries in the Middle East.

Size:

Jordan covers approximately 89,000 square kilometers, roughly the size of Portugal, offering dramatic contrasts between the northern part (green hills) and the desert regions of the south.

Capital:

The capital city of Jordan, Amman, is a modern metropolis built on seven hills, blending ancient ruins with contemporary life.

Jordan’s Climate:

Jordan has a semi-arid climate. Summers are hot and dry, especially in parts of the country like Wadi Rum and Aqaba, while winters are cool and wetter, especially in the north. The climate varies from the Mediterranean highlands to the dry deserts, making it ideal for year-round visits.

Jordan’s Rich History & Heritage

Nabateans:

The Nabatean civilization gave the world the city of Petra, carved directly into rose-colored rock. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Roman Empire:

The Roman Empire left significant marks in Jordan, especially in Jerash, home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy.

Islamic Caliphates:

Jordan later became part of major Islamic empires, including the Umayyad, Abbasid, and Fatimid Caliphates, influencing its architecture, cuisine, and language.

Modern Era:

In the 20th century, Jordan played a key role in the Great Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire and became a sovereign state in 1946. Today, it maintains strong ties with the West while preserving its Arab identity.

Must-Visit Places in Jordan

1- Petra – The Rose City

Known for its stunning architecture and water channels, Petra is a 2,000-year-old marvel that showcases Nabatean ingenuity. You can hike to Al-Deir (the Monastery) or see the Treasury glow at sunrise.

2- Wadi Rum – Martian Landscape

Often called the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a desert reserve with towering sandstone mountains. This UNESCO site has been featured in films like The Martian and offers stargazing, rock climbing, and Bedouin camping.

3- Dead Sea – Lowest Point on Earth

The Dead Sea sits over 400 meters below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth. Its hypersaline waters allow you to float effortlessly, and the mud is rich in minerals—ideal for spa treatments.

4- Amman

Modern yet historic, Amman offers Roman ruins, bustling souks, and modern cafes. It’s also a hub for Arabic learners, with many language institutes and cultural centers.

5- Aqaba

Aqaba is Red Sea port city is famous for coral reefs, water sports, and warm weather year-round. It’s also Jordan’s window to trade and tourism in the south.

Jordanian Culture & Traditions

Jordanian culture is a blend of Arab tribal heritage, Islamic values, and regional influences from the Levant and the broader Middle East. It is deeply rooted in hospitality, respect for family, and a strong sense of community.

1. Arabic Coffee Etiquette

Arabic coffee, or qahwa, is more than a drink—it’s a social ritual. Served in small, handleless cups, it’s offered first to guests as a sign of respect. The right hand is always used to serve and receive. Traditionally, guests drink three cups—no more, no less—and shake the cup slightly to indicate they’re finished.

Coffee is often served during:

• Family gatherings.
• Tribal meetings.
• Weddings and funerals.
• Business negotiations.

This simple drink communicates honor, inclusion, and mutual respect.

2. National Dish

Mansaf is Jordan’s culinary pride and is served during celebrations, especially weddings, religious holidays, and when honoring guests. It consists of lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce (jameed), served on flatbread and rice, and eaten communally by hand—typically with the right hand, symbolizing trust and unity.

It reflects Bedouin generosity, a value that remains strong across parts of the country, rural and urban alike.

3. Music & Dance

Jordanian music often features instruments like the oud, tabla, and rebab, and carries both folk and classical influences. Lyrics focus on love, history, and nature. Dabke, a traditional Levantine line dance, is performed at weddings and public celebrations, showcasing communal joy and rhythm. The dance involves synchronized steps, stomping, and turns, accompanied by lively music and chants.

In urban areas, you’ll also find fusion genres mixing Arabic melodies with Western beats—reflecting modern Jordan’s evolving cultural landscape.

4. Customs & Traditions

Jordanian society is built on principles of:

• Respect for elders and family.
• Honor and hospitality.
• Religious courtesy and modesty.

Greeting customs include warm handshakes, and in more traditional settings, kisses on both cheeks. Women often greet women, and men greet men, unless close family connections allow otherwise. Visitors are usually offered tea, juice, or coffee, and refusing without a valid excuse can be seen as impolite.

Religious practices are woven into daily life, with Friday being the holy day. Many businesses pause during prayer times, especially in more conservative towns.

5. Traditional Jordanian Clothing

Jordanian dress reflects a mix of practicality and tradition. In rural and tribal areas, men often wear the dishdasha (a long white robe) and the keffiyeh or shemagh (red-and-white or black-and-white headscarf), secured with an agal (black cord). The patterns of the scarf often signal tribal identity.

Women traditionally wear the abaya or thobe, sometimes embroidered with regional designs. Modern women may wear modest Western clothing paired with a hijab, depending on their personal or family preference.

Traditional clothing is still worn at:

• Religious festivals.
• National ceremonies.
• Cultural performances.
• Weddings and family gatherings.

Why Jordan is Famous for Learning Arabic?

Jordan has built a strong reputation as a top destination to study Arabic for international students, linguists, diplomats, and casual learners alike. Here’s why:

Pristine Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) Pronunciation:

Jordan is known for its neutral and clear pronunciation of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). Teachers speak MSA fluently with proper enunciation, and even media outlets follow linguistic norms. This clarity is ideal for learners building a foundational understanding of Arabic grammar, pronunciation, and formal vocabulary.

Unlike some countries where dialects dominate spoken Arabic in all settings, Jordan preserves MSA in schools, universities, and public discourse—making it easier for students to transition from textbook Arabic to real-life usage.

Safe & Welcoming Environment:

Jordan is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the Middle East. Students are welcomed warmly by locals and experience minimal language-learning stress because of the country’s reputation for hospitality and political stability. Crime rates are low, and the country’s infrastructure for education and tourism is well developed.

This peace of mind allows students to focus entirely on their learning, whether they’re beginners or advanced speakers.

Unique Jordanian Dialect (+ MSA Combo):

In Jordan, learners get the best of both worlds: exposure to both MSA and Levantine dialect (specifically Jordanian). The Jordanian dialect is:

1. Easily understandable across the Arab world.
2. Grammatically simpler than MSA, making it more approachable.
3. Spoken in a clear, soft tone that’s excellent for beginners.

This combination gives students a fuller Arabic experience, letting them read, write, and speak naturally in different contexts.

Living Language Labs:

Jordan’s markets, transportation systems, cafés, and community events serve as living classrooms. Students can practice Arabic daily in:

1. Ordering food in Arabic.
2. Bargaining at traditional markets (souks).
3. Asking for directions.
4. Attending public lectures or religious sermons.

Because many Jordanians are used to interacting with international visitors, they are patient and helpful with language learners. This makes practicing speaking skills in daily life less intimidating.

Affordable Living Costs:

Compared to other Middle Eastern or Western destinations, Jordan offers:

• Reasonably priced Arabic courses
• Affordable housing and food.
• Low-cost travel within the country to explore places like the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, or Petra.

This makes Jordan one of the most cost-effective options for long-term or immersive Arabic language study.

How AlBaher Leverages Jordan’s Advantages?

At AlBaher Language Center, we don’t just teach Arabic—we build immersive learning journeys that take full advantage of everything Jordan has to offer. Our programs are designed to help students feel supported academically, culturally, and practically, from the moment they arrive.

We offer at AlBaher:

• Comfortable Student Accommodation in Amman.
• Area Studies Instruction.
• Cultural Excursions and Guided Tours.
• Travel Guide & Support.
• Transportation (To/From Airport).

Our method turns Jordan into your classroom and the Arabic language into your everyday tool.