Cultural Etiquette in Jordan

Understanding Jordanian Culture

Jordan is a country where traditional values and modern influences coexist harmoniously. Jordanian society is built on strong family ties, religious traditions, and a deep sense of hospitality. Understanding and respecting local customs will not only help you avoid unintentional offense but will also enrich your travel experience and open doors to meaningful cultural exchanges.

Greetings and Social Interactions

Common Greetings

• As-salamu alaykum (Peace be upon you) - A common greeting
• Wa alaykum as-salam (And upon you be peace) - The response
• Marhaba (Hello) - A casual greeting
• Ahlan wa sahlan (Welcome) - Often used to greet visitors
• Sabah al-khayr (Good morning) - Used until noon
• Masa al-khayr (Good evening) - Used after noon

Physical Greetings

Jordanians typically greet each other with a handshake, though there are some gender considerations:

• Men shake hands with other men
• Women shake hands with other women
• Between genders, wait for the woman to extend her hand first
• Some conservative Muslim women may not shake hands with men
• Close friends may greet with kisses on the cheek (usually right-left-right)

Conversation Etiquette

• Jordanians often ask about your family, health, and journey as a sign of care
• It's polite to inquire about their family and well-being in return
• Avoid rushing straight to business or practical matters
• Small talk is an important social lubricant
• Maintain eye contact during conversation as a sign of sincerity
• Speaking a few words of Arabic is greatly appreciated

Personal Space and Physical Contact

• Same-gender friends may stand or sit closer than in Western cultures
• Men may hold hands or walk arm in arm as a sign of friendship (not romantic)
• Public displays of affection between couples are inappropriate
• Maintain more distance between genders in conservative areas

Dress Code and Modesty

General Guidelines

Jordan is relatively moderate compared to some neighboring countries, but modest dress is still appreciated, especially outside tourist areas:

• Cover shoulders and knees (both men and women)
• Avoid tight-fitting or revealing clothing
• Loose, lightweight fabrics are practical and culturally appropriate
• Long pants for men are preferable to shorts in most settings
• Women should avoid low-cut tops and very short skirts/shorts

Regional Variations

• Amman: More relaxed in upscale areas like Abdoun and Sweifieh
• Tourist sites: Standards are more relaxed but still conservative
• Rural areas: More conservative dress is expected
• Dead Sea/Aqaba resorts: Western swimwear is acceptable at pools and private beaches

Religious Sites

When visiting mosques or religious sites, stricter dress codes apply:

• Women should cover their hair with a scarf
• Both men and women should cover arms and legs completely
• Remove shoes before entering prayer areas
• Some mosques provide robes or scarves for visitors
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless participating

Dining Etiquette

General Table Manners

• Use your right hand for eating and passing food
• The left hand is traditionally considered unclean
• Wait for the host or eldest person to begin eating
• It's polite to try everything offered
• Compliment the food and thank the host
• Leave a small amount of food on your plate to show you're satisfied

Traditional Meals

When invited to a Jordanian home or participating in a traditional meal:

• You may be seated on floor cushions around a communal platter
• For mansaf (the national dish), eat from the portion directly in front of you
• Expect to be offered seconds (and thirds) - a polite refusal may require several attempts
• Bringing a small gift (sweets, fruit) is appreciated when visiting homes

Coffee and Tea Customs

• Arabic coffee (qahwa) is a symbol of hospitality
• It's polite to accept at least one cup
• Hold the cup with your right hand
• When finished, wiggle the cup slightly when returning it
• Tea is also commonly offered and is typically very sweet

Religious Customs

Respecting Islam

Islam is the predominant religion in Jordan, and respecting religious customs is important:

• Be aware of the five daily prayer times
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan daylight hours
• Speak quietly near mosques, especially during prayer times
• Avoid religious debates or criticism

Visiting Mosques

• Many mosques welcome non-Muslim visitors outside prayer times
• Remove shoes before entering prayer areas
• Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs
• Men should wear long pants and sleeved shirts
• Ask permission before taking photographs

Ramadan Etiquette

If visiting during the holy month of Ramadan:

• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
• Dress more conservatively than usual
• Be aware that business hours may be shortened
• Restaurants in tourist areas may remain open during the day
• Expect increased activity and festive atmosphere after sunset

Photography and Public Behavior

Photography Etiquette

• Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and children
• Avoid photographing military installations or government buildings
• Some religious sites restrict photography or charge a fee
• In Bedouin communities, some people may request a small payment for photographs

Public Behavior

• Public displays of affection are inappropriate
• Avoid loud or boisterous behavior in public
• Drinking alcohol in public places is not acceptable
• Public intoxication is strongly frowned upon
• Respect quiet hours, especially in residential areas

Business Etiquette

Meeting Customs

• Relationships are important in Jordanian business culture
• Meetings often begin with small talk and refreshments
• Business cards should be presented and received with the right hand
• Punctuality is appreciated but not always strictly observed
• Decisions may take longer than in Western business cultures

Business Attire

• Conservative business attire is expected
• Men typically wear suits or dress shirts with slacks
• Women should choose modest business attire
• Avoid revealing clothing in professional settings

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