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:
- Shake hands using your right hand and use greetings warmly.
- Compliment hosts and accept hospitality with gratitude.
- Dress modestly, especially in religious and rural areas.
- Learn basic Arabic—it shows respect for Jordan culture.
- Ask before photographing people or sensitive places.
Don’t:
- Engage in public displays of affection, especially outside Amman.
- Discuss politics, religion, or the monarchy critically.
- Assume uniformity—Jordanian culture varies by region and family.
- Use your left hand to eat or pass items.
- 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.
FAQ
What is the most respectful way to greet someone of the opposite gender in Jordan?
In Jordan, the “Heart-Tap” is the golden standard for respectful distance. When meeting someone of the opposite gender, it is best to wait and see if they offer their hand first. If they don’t, simply place your right hand over your heart and give a slight nod while saying “Ahlan wa Sahlan” or “Ya’teek el ‘afyeh.” This gesture is universally recognized as a sign of high respect and warmth without overstepping personal or religious boundaries.
How has digital nomad culture changed the etiquette in Amman’s cafes?
Amman has become a hub for remote work, but the “Cafe Culture” remains deeply social. While working from a laptop is common in neighborhoods like Jabal Al-Lweibdeh, it is considered polite to “buy-in” every 90 minutes with a new order and to keep your voice low during calls. Unlike in the West, if a cafe is crowded, it is common for locals to ask “Mousha’ al-tariq?” (Is this seat taken?), and you may find yourself sharing a table and a conversation with a stranger.
What are the “unwritten rules” regarding photography and social media?
While Jordan is incredibly photogenic, the culture prizes privacy (Khasousiya). Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially women or families in rural areas. A simple “Mumken soura?” (Possible a photo?) goes a long way. Furthermore, avoid filming near military installations or government buildings. In the era of TikTok and Instagram, “Slow Content”—taking the time to ask and interact before hitting record—is what builds bridges rather than walls.
Why is the “third invitation” so significant in Levantine social circles?
In the Levant, the first two invitations are often seen as “polite offerings” (Moujamala). If someone invites you for coffee or lunch, it is culturally expected that you politely decline the first and second time. If they ask a third time with insistence, the invitation is genuine. This “dance of invitations” ensures that neither party feels burdened, and accepting on the third ask shows that you value the relationship enough to participate in the ritual.
