Jordan Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Jordan; Middle Eastern state; 88,950 km², 10.0 million residents (2019).Jordan borders south to Saudi Arabia, west to Israel, north to Syria, and east to Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Apart from a narrow strip of land at the city of Aqaba in the south, Jordan is completely enclosed by other states. In 1988, Jordan abandoned all claims of sovereignty on the West Bank and transferred the legal and administrative responsibilities of the Palestinian liberation movement PLO. The capital is Amman (1.8 million residents, 2016).

Country facts

al-Mamlaka al-Urduniya al-Hashimiya / Hashimite Kingdom of Jordan
Country abbreviation: JO
Area: 88 950 km²
Population (2019): 10.0 million residents
Capital: Amman
Main languages: Arabic
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Abdullah II (King)
Head of Government: Omar al-Razzaz
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 4 248
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 4,210
Currency unit: 1 Jordanian dinar = 1,000 fils
Currency code: JOD
Country number (telephony): 962
Internet domain name: yes
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: May 25 (Independence Day, 1946)

Nature

Land use: forest (1%), agricultural land (5%), other (94%)
Highest mountain: Jabal Ramm (1,754 m asl)
Largest lake: Dead Sea (650 km² )

Population

Population density (2019): 112 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.8%; birthrate 22 ‰, death count 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (34%), 15-64 (62%), 65- (4%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 73 years, women 76 years
Infant mortality (2019): 17 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 13 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.735 (place 95 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 90%
Most populous cities (2016): Amman (183 million residents), az-Zarqa (635,200)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017: agriculture (4%), industry (29%), service (67%)
Exports (2017): US $ 7,511 million
Main export products: clothing, vegetables, phosphate
Main exporting countries: USA, Saudi Arabia, India
Imports (2017): US $ 18 210 million
Main import products: crude oil, machinery, means of transport
Main trading partners: China, Saudi Arabia, USA
Railway network (2014): 500 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Jordan is a landlocked country located in the Middle East, positioned on the eastern bank of the Jordan River. It shares borders with Syria to the north, Iraq to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south and southeast, and Israel and Palestine (the West Bank) to the west. Jordan is strategically situated at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it an important cultural and economic hub throughout history. It covers an area of approximately 89,342 square kilometers (34,495 square miles), making it relatively small in size compared to many other countries in the region.

The country’s borders are defined by its neighboring countries and bodies of water. To the west, Jordan has a coastline along the Dead Sea, a saltwater lake that serves as a natural border with Israel and Palestine. The southern part of the country also touches the Red Sea, specifically through the Gulf of Aqaba, which provides Jordan with its only access to open water and is crucial for trade and tourism.

Physical Features

Jordan’s geography is diverse, ranging from the fertile plains in the west to the arid deserts in the east. The western part of the country is dominated by the Jordan Rift Valley, which stretches from the Sea of Galilee in the north down to the Red Sea in the south. This rift valley is part of the larger East African Rift system and includes the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the earth’s surface, sitting at more than 400 meters (1,312 feet) below sea level.

To the east of the Jordan Rift Valley lies the vast, dry desert known as the Eastern Desert or Badia. This region is made up of rocky plateaus, dunes, and sparsely vegetated land. Although this area is largely uninhabited, it is significant for Jordan’s Bedouin communities, who have historically lived in the desert and still maintain a traditional nomadic lifestyle in some areas.

Jordan’s highest point is Jabal Umm al-Dami, located in the south, which rises to 1,854 meters (6,049 feet) above sea level. The country is also home to several mountain ranges, including the Ajloun Mountains in the northwest and the mountains of southern Jordan. Despite its arid climate, Jordan has numerous fertile valleys, particularly in the northwest, where agriculture is practiced due to the availability of water from seasonal rains and rivers.

Climate

Jordan experiences a variety of climate zones due to its diverse geography. The climate in the western regions, including the capital city of Amman, is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures in the summer can exceed 30°C (86°F), while winters are cooler with average highs of around 12-15°C (54-59°F) and occasional snowfall in higher elevations.

In the eastern and southern parts of the country, where the climate is more arid, temperatures can soar during the summer months, reaching 40°C (104°F) or more. The eastern desert regions are notably dry, with minimal rainfall, making these areas prone to drought conditions. The southern part of Jordan, particularly around the Red Sea, has a more moderate climate with warm temperatures year-round and relatively high humidity due to its coastal location.

Jordan’s climate is also influenced by its proximity to the Mediterranean, which brings seasonal rains and mild temperatures in certain regions, while the desert areas remain hot and dry throughout the year.

Natural Resources

Jordan’s natural resources are limited, particularly in terms of water. The country faces significant water scarcity, with limited freshwater sources and reliance on desalination and imported water for its growing population. The main water sources in Jordan are the Jordan River, the Yarmouk River, and underground aquifers, but these resources are not sufficient to meet the demands of the population, especially given the country’s arid climate.

Jordan does have significant mineral resources, including phosphate, potash, and shale oil. Phosphate mining is particularly important to the Jordanian economy, as the country is one of the world’s largest producers of phosphates. Jordan also has some oil shale deposits, and efforts have been made to explore and develop these resources, although large-scale production remains limited.

In terms of energy, Jordan relies heavily on imports of oil and natural gas, though the country has been investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce dependence on imported fuels.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Jordan has a population of around 10.5 million people. The population is ethnically diverse, with the majority of Jordanians being Arab, including a mix of descendants from Bedouin tribes and urban populations. The Bedouins, traditionally semi-nomadic herders, have historically played a central role in Jordan’s culture and political landscape. They are particularly influential in the eastern and southern regions of the country.

In addition to the native Arab population, Jordan is home to a significant number of Palestinians. Many Palestinians migrated to Jordan during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and subsequent conflicts, leading to the establishment of a large Palestinian refugee community. Today, Palestinians make up a substantial portion of Jordan’s population, particularly in urban areas like Amman. Other ethnic minorities in Jordan include Circassians, Armenians, and Chechens, although these groups are smaller in number.

Jordan also has a substantial expatriate community, with foreign nationals, particularly from Syria, Egypt, and other parts of the Arab world, working in various sectors. This influx of migrants contributes to the country’s growing population and labor force.

Language

The official language of Jordan is Arabic, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population. The Jordanian dialect of Arabic is part of the Levantine dialect group, which is spoken across Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. In addition to Arabic, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in urban centers and business contexts. English is commonly taught in schools, and many Jordanians are fluent in the language, making it an important medium for communication in education, government, and commerce.

Jordanian Arabic differs somewhat from the standard Arabic used in formal writing and media, with local idioms and expressions adding a distinctive flavor to the language. However, Modern Standard Arabic is the official language for formal communication, education, and media, making it accessible to people from other Arab countries.

Religion

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, with around 97% of the population identifying as Sunni Muslim. Islam plays a central role in the daily lives of most Jordanians, influencing cultural practices, holidays, and social norms. The kingdom’s religious observances, such as the holy month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, are widely celebrated and hold significant cultural importance.

There is a small minority of Christians in Jordan, making up approximately 2-3% of the population. Jordan is one of the few Arab countries with a relatively stable Christian community, and many Christians in Jordan belong to the Greek Orthodox Church, followed by smaller numbers of Roman Catholics, Armenians, and Protestant denominations. Christianity has a long history in Jordan, with many important Christian sites, such as the baptismal site of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River, located within the country’s borders.

Social Structure

Jordan has a relatively conservative social structure, influenced by both Islamic traditions and Bedouin customs. Family is at the core of Jordanian society, and extended families often live in close proximity or maintain strong ties. Traditional gender roles are observed in many areas, though there has been progress in women’s rights and participation in the workforce in recent years.

Education is highly valued in Jordan, and the country has one of the highest literacy rates in the Arab world. Access to education has improved significantly in recent decades, and the country is home to several universities, with King Abdullah II University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and the University of Jordan being among the most prominent.

Economy

Key Industries

Jordan’s economy is considered diverse, with key sectors including services, manufacturing, agriculture, and mining. The country has limited natural resources, which has made it reliant on trade and foreign aid. Services, including finance, tourism, and education, make up a significant portion of Jordan’s GDP, with the country positioning itself as a regional hub for business and financial services.

The industrial sector is also important to Jordan’s economy, with industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and cement production contributing to the economy. Jordan’s pharmaceutical industry, in particular, is one of the most advanced in the region, exporting medical products to markets around the world.

Mining plays a key role in Jordan’s economy, particularly the extraction of phosphate, potash, and other minerals. The country is one of the world’s largest exporters of phosphate, which is used in fertilizers. Potash, another important mineral, is used in agriculture and industry.

Agriculture and Water Scarcity

Agriculture has historically been a key part of Jordan’s economy, although it now represents a smaller share of GDP. The country produces a variety of crops, including wheat, barley, fruits, and vegetables, particularly in the fertile lands around the Jordan River Valley. However, due to the country’s limited arable land and water scarcity, agriculture remains challenging. The scarcity of water is a significant barrier to agricultural expansion, and Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world.

The government has invested heavily in irrigation projects, including the use of treated wastewater for agriculture, but these efforts have been unable to fully meet the needs of the growing population. Water conservation and management remain key challenges for Jordan’s future development.

Trade and Foreign Relations

Jordan’s economy is heavily reliant on trade and foreign aid. The country has limited natural resources, so it imports a large percentage of its energy, including oil and natural gas. Jordan’s exports include phosphate, fertilizers, clothing, and textiles. The country also has a well-developed infrastructure for trade, with the Port of Aqaba serving as the main seaport, facilitating trade across the region and beyond.

Jordan maintains strong trade and diplomatic relationships with several countries, particularly in the Arab world and the West. It has free trade agreements with the United States and several European countries, and it has signed agreements with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Jordan’s political stability and strategic location make it an important partner in regional and international trade.

Government

Political System

Jordan is a constitutional monarchy, with the King of Jordan holding significant executive authority. The current monarch, King Abdullah II, ascended the throne in 1999. The monarchy is central to Jordanian politics, and the king is both the head of state and the head of government. While Jordan has a constitution that guarantees certain civil rights and freedoms, the king retains the power to dissolve parliament, appoint the prime minister, and control major decisions regarding foreign policy and national security.

Jordan has a bicameral legislature, consisting of the House of Representatives (elected by the people) and the Senate (appointed by the king). The political system allows for political participation and elections, but the king’s influence remains significant in shaping the direction of the country’s governance.

Legal System

Jordan’s legal system is based on civil law, with influences from Islamic law (Sharia) and customary law. The judiciary is independent, and the courts handle both civil and criminal cases. Sharia law is applied to matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance, particularly for Muslims, while civil law governs other legal matters. The country’s legal system is known for its efficiency, though there are ongoing discussions about human rights and political freedoms, particularly related to freedom of speech and assembly.

Foreign Policy and International Relations

Jordan has a long-standing reputation for maintaining stability and neutrality in the Middle East. It has played an active role in regional diplomacy, particularly in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader Arab world. The country signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1994, becoming the second Arab nation to do so, after Egypt. This treaty has been significant in shaping Jordan’s diplomatic relations, particularly in terms of trade and security cooperation.

Jordan is a member of the United Nations, the Arab League, and other international organizations. It maintains strong relationships with Western countries, particularly the United States and the European Union, which provide economic and military aid to the country. Additionally, Jordan is heavily involved in humanitarian efforts, particularly in regard to Syrian refugees, as the country has been a major host to displaced persons due to the ongoing Syrian conflict.

Culture

Language and Literature

Arabic is the official language of Jordan, with Modern Standard Arabic being used in formal contexts and media, while Jordanian Arabic (a Levantine dialect) is spoken in daily life. The dialect is similar to those spoken in neighboring countries such as Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon. Jordan has a rich tradition of oral and written literature, including poetry, which has deep roots in the Arab world.

Jordanian literature is often shaped by the country’s history, culture, and political climate. Writers such as Ibrahim Nasrallah and Fadia Faqir explore themes related to identity, exile, and political conflict, often reflecting the experiences of Palestinians in Jordan. In addition, Jordan is home to a vibrant contemporary arts scene, with theater, music, and visual arts gaining prominence over the years.

Art, Music, and Dance

Jordanian art is influenced by both traditional Arab culture and contemporary global movements. Traditional arts such as calligraphy, pottery, and weaving are still practiced, especially in rural areas, while modern Jordanian art has incorporated influences from Western art traditions. The Royal Cultural Center in Amman and other galleries showcase a mix of contemporary art forms.

Music is a key element of Jordanian culture, with traditional music influenced by Arabic classical styles. The “oud” (a string instrument) and “tabla” (drum) are often used in performances of folk music. In modern times, Jordanian music has embraced popular genres like pop and rap, and Jordanian musicians regularly perform at cultural festivals.

Dancing is an integral part of celebrations and social life in Jordan, with traditional forms such as the “dabka” (a group folk dance) being performed at weddings and festivals.

Festivals and Traditions

Jordan is known for its rich cultural heritage, and its festivals reflect the diverse influences of Arab, Islamic, and Bedouin traditions. Religious festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are widely celebrated across the country. These holidays involve communal prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. The Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is also an important occasion marked by religious observances.

In addition to religious holidays, Jordan hosts a variety of cultural and artistic festivals, including the Jerash Festival, which celebrates music, theater, and dance in the ancient Roman city of Jerash. The Amman International Film Festival also draws artists and filmmakers from around the world to showcase Arab cinema.

Cuisine

Jordanian cuisine is a blend of Arabic, Mediterranean, and Bedouin influences, with a focus on fresh ingredients, vegetables, meats, and grains. Popular dishes include mansaf, the national dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt sauce; maqluba, a rice and vegetable dish; and falafel, deep-fried balls of chickpeas. The cuisine often features olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices such as cumin and coriander.

Traditional Bedouin meals often include grilled meats, particularly lamb and chicken, and zatar (a mix of herbs and spices) served with bread. Jordanian cuisine also includes a wide variety of fresh salads, such as tabbouleh, and sweet treats, like kanafeh, a pastry made with cheese and syrup.