Jordan

Region
🌍 Asia
Population
👥 11
Currency
💱 Jordanian dinar
Languages
🗣️ Arabic
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Discover Jordan, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the rose-red city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into sandstone cliffs. Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Marvel at the desert castles and Roman ruins scattered across the country. Experience warm Bedouin hospitality and savor delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. From the vibrant capital of Amman to the stark beauty of Wadi Rum, Jordan offers an unforgettable adventure.

Official NameSource: REST Countries
Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Continent
Asia
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Jordanian
Independence
May 25, 1946 (from the United Kingdom)
Top-Level Domain
.jo
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+962
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+03:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Amman
ISO Alpha-2
JO
ISO Alpha-3
JOR
UN Code
400
Geographic Coordinates
31,36
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
89,342#112 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
11,937,000#82 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
128.83
Highest Point (m)
Jabal Umm ad Dami, 1,854 m
Lowest Point (m)
Dead Sea, -431 m
Land Use
Primarily desert, with some arable land.
Irrigated Land
Approximately 780 sq km (2012)
Coastline Length
26 km
Climate
Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Natural Resources
Phosphates, potash, shale oil
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Iraq, Israel, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria
Major Rivers
Jordan River, Yarmouk River
Major Lakes
Dead Sea
Government Type
Constitutional Monarchy
Administrative Divisions
12 governorates
Chief of State
King Abdullah II
Head of Government
Prime Minister Bisher Al-Khasawneh
Cabinet
Council of Ministers appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
Elections
Elections for the House of Representatives are held regularly.
Judicial Branch
Courts of First Instance, Courts of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation.
Legislative Branch
Bicameral National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives)
Major Political Parties
Islamic Action Front, National Unity Party, and others.
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Jordanian dinar
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
61.61#91 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
145.53#92 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
5,347.78#135 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
5.56
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
27.37
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
56.77
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1.77#134 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3,220,931
16.54#12 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
93.62
Budget
Jordan's budget includes revenues from taxes and foreign aid, and expenditures on public services and infrastructure.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2007)Checked September 29, 2026
9.28#113 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2007)Checked September 29, 2026
15.7#102 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Approximately $17 billion (2022 est.)
GDP by Sector
Services, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Major Industries
Phosphate mining, tourism, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
Major Export Partners
United States, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and India.
Major Import Partners
Saudi Arabia, China, United States, and Germany.

Society

94.44#81 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
20.5
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
3.1
Net Migration Rate
Approximately 0 migrants per 1,000 population (2021 est.)
Median Age
Approximately 24 years (2021 est.)
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
93.21#24 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Approximately 1.5% annual rate of change (2021 est.)
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
78#67 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Less than 0.1% of the adult population (2021 est.)
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
7.66
Ethnic Groups
Primarily Arab, with smaller communities of Circassians, Armenians, and Chechens.
Religions
Primarily Sunni Muslim, with a Christian minority.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Arabic

Education

Education System
The education system in Jordan includes primary, secondary, and higher education. It is overseen by the Ministry of Education. Education is compulsory for 10 years.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
10.4
Government Education Spending
Government expenditure on education is a significant portion of the budget.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
University of Jordan, Yarmouk University, Hashemite University, and Jordan University of Science and Technology.

Culture

Cultural Overview
Jordan's culture is a blend of Arab, Bedouin, and Islamic traditions, with influences from the Levant region. Hospitality and family are central.
National Holidays
Includes Independence Day, Labor Day, and Islamic holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha).
Popular Music
Popular music includes Arabic pop, Dabke music, and modern genres.
Traditional Food
Popular dishes include Mansaf (lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt), Maqluba (rice and vegetables), and Falafel.
Sports
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport, followed by basketball. Other sports include martial arts.
Major Festivals
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, and festivals related to religious holidays.
Famous People
Queen Rania, Zaid Al-Hussein (human rights advocate), and artists and athletes.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Include historical sites like Petra and Jerash.
UNESCO Sites
Petra, Wadi Rum, Quseir Amra, Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan), and As-Salt.
Annual Tourist Visits
Millions of tourists annually (pre-pandemic levels).
Tourism Overview
Tourism is a significant sector, with historical sites, religious sites, and natural attractions drawing visitors.
Top Tourist Attractions
Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Jerash, Amman Citadel.
Famous Cities
Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Zarqa.
National Parks
Several national parks, including protected areas in Wadi Rum and Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Protected Areas
Significant protected areas for biodiversity conservation.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild, perfect for exploring the ancient city of Petra, hiking in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and experiencing the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Cities like Amman offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing without the intense summer heat. Beach activities along the Red Sea coast in Aqaba are enjoyable year-round, but the spring and autumn provide the most agreeable conditions. For those interested in cultural events, the Jordan Festival, typically held in the summer, offers a glimpse into local arts and music, though it can be quite warm.
Tourist Visa Info
Visas are required for many nationalities; visa on arrival available for some.
Visa Requirements Overview
Tourist visa requirements for Jordan vary significantly based on your nationality. Many nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman or at land border crossings. For others, it is advisable to check with the Jordanian embassy or consulate in your home country prior to travel to determine if an advance visa application is necessary. Some nationalities are eligible for a Jordan Pass, which combines the visa fee with entry to numerous historical sites, offering good value and convenience. It is recommended to have at least six months of validity remaining on your passport. Always verify the latest regulations directly with official sources before your trip.
Travel Advisory
Travel advisories may exist; check your country's travel advisory for specific guidance.

Healthcare

Healthcare Quality
Jordan's healthcare quality index is moderate and improving.
Medical Cost
Medical costs in Jordan vary, with public healthcare being more affordable.
Number of Hospitals
Jordan has a number of hospitals, both public and private, providing a range of services.
Universal Healthcare
Jordan provides healthcare through public and private systems, with the Ministry of Health overseeing public facilities. There's a mix of public and private insurance.
Medical Services Overview
Jordan offers a mix of public and private healthcare services, with a focus on specialized care.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available in Jordan, with ambulance services in major cities.

Emergency & Safety

Emergency Number (Police)
191
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
911
Emergency Number (Fire)
911
Crime Rate
Relatively low crime rate.
Safety Index
High safety index.
Military Expenditure
Significant military expenditure as a percentage of GDP.
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services include police, ambulance, and fire departments. Response times may vary depending on location.
Safety Overview
Jordan is generally a very safe country for tourists, with a low crime rate. Petty theft is uncommon, but as with any travel destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets or busy city centers. Scams are rare, but be cautious of unsolicited offers of tours or assistance, particularly at popular tourist sites; it's best to book through reputable agencies or your accommodation. While Jordan is a stable country, it's always advisable to stay informed about regional news. Exercise common sense, trust your instincts, and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables openly. Roads can be busy, so drive defensively if renting a car. Tourist police are readily available to assist visitors.
Military Branches
Jordan Armed Forces: Royal Jordanian Army, Royal Jordanian Air Force, Royal Jordanian Navy.

Infrastructure

Electricity Access
Near universal electricity access.
Water Access
Relatively high water access, though water scarcity is a significant concern.
Sanitation Access
High sanitation access in urban areas, with improvements ongoing in rural regions.
Railways
Limited railway network, primarily for freight transport.
Roadways
Road network relatively developed, with asphalted roads connecting major cities and regions.
Transportation System
Roads are the primary mode of transport. Public transport includes buses and taxis. There's limited railway.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), Marka International (Amman Civil) Airport (ADJ), Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
Ports
Aqaba is the primary port, handling significant cargo and serving as a gateway to the Red Sea.
Public Transit
Limited public transit; buses are the main mode within cities, and taxis are widely available.

Technology & Communication

Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
95.62#27 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
High mobile subscriptions per 100 people.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup scene, particularly in Amman, with government support and investment.
Innovation Index
Moderate innovation index.
ICT Development Index
Moderate ICT Development Index.
TV Broadcast Stations
Multiple TV broadcast stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Numerous radio broadcast stations.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type C/G, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
2.09#112 of 202
Air Quality Index
Air quality is a concern, with high levels of particulate matter and pollutants in urban areas.
Water Pollution Level
Water pollution is a significant issue, stemming from industrial discharge, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
Renewable Energy Usage
Renewable energy usage is growing, with solar power projects underway, but still a small percentage of total energy consumption.
Environmental Issues
Major environmental issues include water scarcity, desertification, air pollution, and waste management.
Natural Hazards
Prone to droughts, earthquakes, and flash floods.
Waste Management
Waste management faces challenges, including limited recycling and inadequate disposal infrastructure.
Environmental Agreements
Party to international environmental agreements, including those on climate change, biodiversity, and desertification.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Maintains diplomatic missions globally.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
Arab League
Major Treaties
Participates in various international treaties related to trade, human rights, and other areas.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens can travel visa-free to a number of countries.

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