Tips About Culture in Jordan

Whether you’re planning to visit, study, or live in Jordan, understanding Jordanian culture is essential—not just for navigating social norms, but also for becoming a more effective Arabic learner. Culture and language are deeply intertwined, especially in a country with rich traditions that span the ancient world to the contemporary Arab identity.

This guide will walk you through the key cultural values, social practices, and communication etiquette in Jordan so you can feel more connected and confident during your stay.

Core Jordanian Cultural Values

Jordan, situated at the intersection of three continents in the ancient world, continues to play an important role in preserving Arab identity. Some of the country’s most deeply held values include:

• Family first: Extended families often live close or together, and family ties outweigh individual interests.
• Hospitality: Offering guests tea or coffee is more than tradition—it’s a symbol of honor and generosity.
• Respect for elders: Age and wisdom are respected in speech, seating arrangements, and decision-making.
• Islamic influence: As a predominantly Muslim country, Islamic values shape laws, education, food habits, and social customs.
• Pride in heritage: From Wadi Rum to Petra, Jordanians take pride in their land, history, and traditional music.

Social Etiquette & Arabic Phrases

1- Greeting Customs

In Jordan, how you greet someone reflects your respect. Greetings typically involve a warm “Salām ʿalaykum” followed by a handshake, especially between men. Between women, hugs or cheek kisses (usually two or three) may follow. Cross-gender handshakes may only happen if the woman initiates.

Hierarchy:

Greet the eldest or highest-ranking person first. In meetings, this often determines who speaks or sits where.

Body Language:

Maintain eye contact but avoid staring.

A hand placed over the heart after a handshake signals deep respect.

Avoid touching the opposite gender unless you’re certain it’s culturally acceptable.

2- Home Visits

Do:

Bring a small gift (sweets, juice, or nuts).

Compliment the home and accept food or drink offered.

Remove shoes if you notice others doing so.

Don’t:

Decline coffee or tea unless absolutely necessary—it’s a social gesture.

Ask overly personal questions about women or politics.

Sit before being invited or in a seat intended for elders.

3- Mosque Etiquette

If visiting a mosque, especially with locals:

Key Terms:

• مسجد (masjid) – Mosque
• وضوء (wuḍūʾ) – Ablution
• صلاة (ṣalāh) – Prayer

Dress Code:

Women: Modest clothing covering arms and legs; headscarf required.

Men: No shorts or sleeveless tops.

Shoes: Always remove before entering the prayer hall.

Daily Life Culture

Work & Business Culture

Workplaces in Jordan are hierarchical but warm. Meetings begin with extended greetings and small talk. Don’t rush into business.

Meeting Style: Appointments are appreciated but may begin later than scheduled.

Phrase to Know: “كيف كان يومك؟” (kayf kāna yawmuk?) – How was your day?

Gender Interactions

Conservative Norms:

In rural and some urban settings, gender roles are more traditional. Public interaction between unrelated men and women is usually limited.

Exception:

In universities, major cities like Amman, and workplaces, interactions are more relaxed but still respectful.

Time Perception

Flexible “Inshallah” Time:

The phrase “إن شاء الله” (in shāʾ Allāh)—”God willing”—is frequently used to discuss future plans, but it may or may not mean something will actually happen.

Reality:

Appointments and schedules are often flexible. Be patient and adaptable.

Cultural Do’s & Don’ts Cheat Sheet

Do:

1. Shake hands using your right hand and use greetings warmly.
2. Compliment hosts and accept hospitality with gratitude.
3. Dress modestly, especially in religious and rural areas.
4. Learn basic Arabic—it shows respect for Jordan culture.
5. Ask before photographing people or sensitive places.

Don’t:

1. Engage in public displays of affection, especially outside Amman.
2. Discuss politics, religion, or the monarchy critically.
3. Assume uniformity—Jordanian culture varies by region and family.
4. Use your left hand to eat or pass items.
5. Compare Jordan unfavorably to other Middle Eastern countries.

Did You Know?

Wadi Rum, the famous desert landscape featured in Lawrence of Arabia, is still home to Bedouin tribes who practice ancient hospitality customs.

The national dish, Mansaf, is eaten by hand during communal gatherings—a cultural experience rich in symbolism.

Jordan continues to play a vital cultural and political role in the Arab world, bridging tradition and modernity.

Final Thought

Understanding Jordanian culture is essential for anyone hoping to learn Arabic meaningfully. From sipping coffee with a host to listening to high quality oud melodies under desert stars, culture and language come together in unforgettable ways. And with each phrase, greeting, or shared meal, you’ll find yourself not just studying Arabic—but living it.