Amman Jordan Travel Tips

Travel Etiquette Tips for Amman

Key Travel Etiquette Tips:

  • Greetings: Jordanians are warm and hospitable people. A common greeting is “Salam aleikum” (peace be upon you), to which the response is “Wa aleikum assalam” (and peace be upon you too). It’s polite to shake hands with men when greeting them, and offer a polite handshake and verbal greetings (“As-salam alaykum”) to both men and women.

  • Dress:

    • Modesty is key: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. This means covering shoulders and knees for both men and women. For women, loose-fitting clothing that covers the body from head to toe (except for hands and face) is best. Men typically wear long pants and shirts with sleeves.

    • Clothing in general:

      • Dress Code:

        • For women: While Jordan is generally tolerant of Western dress, it’s important to be mindful of the cultural norms. In Amman, you’ll see a variety of clothing styles. However, for visiting religious sites, it’s best to wear loose-fitting, long clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

        • Dress for comfort: Amman is a hilly city with hot summers and mild winters. Opt for comfortable shoes and breathable clothing like cotton.

        • Be aware of weather conditions: The sun can be intense in Amman, so bring a scarf or shawl to cover your head when needed.

  • Shoes:

    • It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering mosques and some homes. Always look for signs or follow the lead of locals.

    • Respectful footwear:

      • Avoid wearing shoes that are too revealing (e.g., flip-flops) in public, especially when visiting conservative areas like religious sites.

  • Left Hand/Right Hand:

      * The left hand is considered "unclean" in Jordan.
  * Try to use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and giving gifts.

  • Photography:

    • Be mindful of mosques: Photography is often prohibited inside mosques. Always ask permission before taking pictures of people, especially women.

  • Hospitality:

    • Embrace the warmth: Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for tea or a meal – it’s considered rude to refuse such an invitation.

  • Ramadan:

Remember that Muslims in Jordan fast during Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar). Avoid eating, drinking, or chewing gum in public while they are fasting, and remember to be respectful of those who are observing the holy month.

  • Greetings and Relationships:

    • Greetings:

      • “As-salamu alaykum”: Use this traditional greeting “peace be upon you” when greeting a Jordanian. It shows respect for their culture and is a polite way to start an interaction.

    • Hospitality:

      • Be prepared for warmth and generosity.

      Jordanians are often happy to practice their English with visitors, but it’s still considered rude to speak directly to them in Arabic.

Respectful Practices:

  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases: While English is widely spoken in Amman, especially in tourist areas, making an effort to learn a few simple greetings and words of thanks in the language will be greatly appreciated.
  • Be mindful of cultural norms:

Jordanians are generally conservative. Avoid public displays of affection (PDA) and dress modestly when visiting mosques or traditional neighborhoods.

  • Photography:

      * Eating and drinking with your left hand is considered disrespectful. It's best to use your right hand for these activities, as well as for eating and drinking.

  • Shoes:

Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or home in Jordan, especially during Ramadan when it’s crucial to be respectful of the culture.

Cultural Etiquette Tips:

  • Respectful Dress:

    • Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees (especially for women) when visiting religious sites.

    • Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

    • Men are often expected to wear a shirt and pants at all times, while women may be more comfortable wearing a long dress or skirt with a loose-fitting top.

    • Be prepared to say “no”: In Jordan, it’s common for shopkeepers and locals to offer you tea or coffee.

  • Right hand:

This is a gesture of respect and hospitality. Accepting a drink from someone in the right hand shows appreciation and willingness to engage with them.

  • Respect during Ramadan:

During this holy month, be respectful of those who are fasting by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public.

  • Modesty in Conversation:

      * Avoid discussing topics like food and drink during this time.

Additional Tips:

  • Be mindful of your surroundings:**

In Jordan, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and respect the local culture.

  • Haggling:

Expect to haggle when buying goods in markets or from street vendors.

  • Haggling tips:

It’s considered part of the cultural experience and often a good way to get a better price.

  • Respect for Prayer:

Remember that Muslims pray five times a day. Be respectful of those who are praying by avoiding talking loudly or interrupting them.

  • Learn about local customs:

Haggling is not only acceptable but expected in traditional markets.

Respecting the “No”:

  • Respect for women: Avoid eating, drinking, or chewing gum while a Muslim is praying.

  • Haggling etiquette:

Remember that “no” doesn’t always mean “no”.

While visiting a mosque, be respectful of the local culture and customs by dressing modestly and avoiding making noise during prayers. Respecting Others:

  • Be mindful of the cultural context:

“No” in this context is not necessarily a definitive rejection. It’s often part of a negotiation process.

  • Respectful communication:

Be polite and respectful to everyone you encounter, regardless of their religion or beliefs.

  • Haggling:

Always remember to be respectful of the shopkeeper’s time and effort.

  • Be respectful of your surroundings and the people who are in them.

  • Respect for religious practices:

Remember that Jordanians may be offended if you eat, drink, or chew gum with your left hand while they are eating with their right.

  • Haggling etiquette:

Be friendly and polite.

Start by saying “thank you” (“shukran”) when offered something. Be prepared to negotiate:

Price is often negotiable in informal settings.

Respecting the Culture:

  • Dress Modestly:

Dress modestly, especially in Amman’s more conservative areas. This means covering your shoulders and knees (or wearing pants) and avoiding revealing clothing.

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases: Saying “shukran” (thank you), “ma’a salaama” (goodbye), and “ahlan wa sahlan” (welcome) in the local language shows respect and appreciation for their culture.
  • Avoid Offensive Language:

Remember: This is a general guide. It’s important to be respectful and observe the customs of the people around you.

Learn about Jordanian history and culture:

This will help you understand the context behind certain behaviors and avoid any unintentional disrespect.

Respect for the local culture:

  • Be mindful of cultural sensitivities:

Observe what locals are doing and try to follow their lead.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions:

Jordanians are generally very hospitable and willing to share information about their culture. Asking questions in a respectful manner is a good way to learn more about the local customs.

Remember, respect goes both ways!

Learning a few basic phrases, such as “thank you” (“shukran”) and “please” (please use this word sparingly) can help you navigate social interactions and show your appreciation for their culture.

  • Respecting Religious Sites:

Be prepared to be respectful of others’ religious practices.

  • Be mindful of the fact that people are praying and avoid any actions that could be considered disrespectful, such as talking loudly or interrupting them.**

  • Dress modestly: When visiting a mosque, it’s important to be respectful of the fact that this is a holy place for Muslims. It’s recommended to wear clothes that cover your arms, legs and chest.

  • Avoid pointing at people, places or objects with your finger or foot.

  • Remove shoes:

Remember to remove your shoes before entering a mosque, and leave them in the designated area.

  • Dress appropriately:

Remember that Jordanians are generally conservative people.

Dress modestly:

  • Remove shoes before entering any religious site.
  • Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees (for men and women).

Carry yourself with respect:

  • Avoid talking on the phone or using electronic devices inside a mosque.
  • Be patient and respectful during negotiations.

General Tips for Respectful Behavior:

  • Learn about Jordanian culture:

Jordan is a Muslim-majority country, so it’s important to be aware of the local customs.

  • Speak softly:

Be mindful of your voice volume when inside a mosque or in a religious setting.

  • Use respectful language and gestures.

Respect for others:

  • Be polite and patient with those you encounter.
  • Avoid interrupting someone during prayer.

Remember, it’s important to be respectful of local customs in Amman, especially during Ramadan.

Be mindful of dress codes: Wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is a good idea when visiting Jordan (especially in Amman) as a sign of respect for their culture.

  • Dress modestly

  • Avoid eating or drinking in public: This is considered disrespectful to Muslims.

Important Note: Jordanian law does not require you to remove your shoes before entering a mosque, but it’s a common courtesy and polite practice.