Local facts
Jordan follows Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2:00. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to UTC +3:00.
Yes, Jordan observes DST, typically starting on the last Friday in February and ending on the last Friday in October.
Jordan shares its zone with Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. During DST, it is aligned with Saudi Arabia, which does not observe DST.
The difference between Jordan and the United States varies by location and DST. For example, Jordan is 7 hours ahead of EST and 10 hours ahead of PST.
The economy is diverse, with key sectors including:
Tourism: Historic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea attract visitors from around the globe.
Phosphates and Potash: The nation is a major exporter of these minerals, used in fertilizers.
Textiles: The garment industry plays a significant role in exports, particularly to the United States.
IT and Services: A growing tech sector and robust service industry support the economy.
Agriculture: While limited by water resources, agriculture produces olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables.
Tourism: Historic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea attract visitors from around the globe.
Phosphates and Potash: The nation is a major exporter of these minerals, used in fertilizers.
Textiles: The garment industry plays a significant role in exports, particularly to the United States.
IT and Services: A growing tech sector and robust service industry support the economy.
Agriculture: While limited by water resources, agriculture produces olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables.
Jordan is a land of diverse landscapes and historical significance:
Dead Sea: Located at the lowest point on Earth, its high salt content makes swimming nearly impossible but offers therapeutic benefits.
Petra: Known as the 'Rose City,' this ancient Nabatean city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Wadi Rum: A stunning desert valley known as the 'Valley of the Moon,' it has been a backdrop for many films.
Jordan River: A site of great religious significance, it is believed to be where Jesus was baptized.
Dead Sea: Located at the lowest point on Earth, its high salt content makes swimming nearly impossible but offers therapeutic benefits.
Petra: Known as the 'Rose City,' this ancient Nabatean city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Wadi Rum: A stunning desert valley known as the 'Valley of the Moon,' it has been a backdrop for many films.
Jordan River: A site of great religious significance, it is believed to be where Jesus was baptized.
Jordanian culture blends ancient traditions with modern influences:
Language: Arabic is the official language, and English is widely understood in business and tourism.
Religion: Islam is the predominant religion, with Sunni Muslims making up the majority. There is also a small Christian minority.
Hospitality: Jordanians are known for their warmth and generosity. Serving guests coffee or tea is a common custom.
Traditional Foods: Mansaf, a dish of lamb cooked in yogurt and served over rice, is the national dish. Other popular foods include falafel, hummus, and knafeh.
Festivals: Ramadan and Eid are widely celebrated, along with cultural events like the Jerash Festival for Arts and Culture.
Language: Arabic is the official language, and English is widely understood in business and tourism.
Religion: Islam is the predominant religion, with Sunni Muslims making up the majority. There is also a small Christian minority.
Hospitality: Jordanians are known for their warmth and generosity. Serving guests coffee or tea is a common custom.
Traditional Foods: Mansaf, a dish of lamb cooked in yogurt and served over rice, is the national dish. Other popular foods include falafel, hummus, and knafeh.
Festivals: Ramadan and Eid are widely celebrated, along with cultural events like the Jerash Festival for Arts and Culture.
The country celebrates several holidays that reflect its heritage and traditions:
Independence Day: Celebrated on May 25th, it marks the country’s independence from British rule in 1946.
Labor Day: Observed on May 1st, honoring workers' contributions.
Religious Holidays: Islamic holidays like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan), and Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) are observed with prayers and family gatherings.
Armed Forces Day: Held on June 10th, it recognizes the contributions of the Jordanian military.
King’s Birthday: Celebrated on January 30th, honoring the birthday of King Abdullah II.
Independence Day: Celebrated on May 25th, it marks the country’s independence from British rule in 1946.
Labor Day: Observed on May 1st, honoring workers' contributions.
Religious Holidays: Islamic holidays like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan), and Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) are observed with prayers and family gatherings.
Armed Forces Day: Held on June 10th, it recognizes the contributions of the Jordanian military.
King’s Birthday: Celebrated on January 30th, honoring the birthday of King Abdullah II.