Jordan is an Arab country located in Southwest Asia and occupies a rocky desert in the northern Arabian Peninsula. The country has a rich history and is home to many ancient sites, including the biblical kingdoms of Moab, Gilead, and Edom. The region has played a prominent role in biblical history, and it is separated from ancient Palestine by the Jordan River. Today, Jordan is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the ancient city of Petra, as well as for its warm hospitality and friendly people.

ABOUT

Jordan, officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a country located in Western Asia at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is situated within the Levant region on the East Bank of the Jordan River and is bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, the Palestinian West Bank, Israel, and the Dead Sea. Jordan has a coastline in its southwest on the Gulf of Aqaba’s Red Sea, which separates it from Egypt. The capital of Jordan is Amman, which is also its largest city and serves as its economic, political, and cultural center.

The history of Jordan dates back to the Paleolithic period, and it has been inhabited by humans since then. During the Bronze Age, three stable kingdoms emerged in the region, namely Ammon, Moab, and Edom. Later, the Arab Nabataeans established their Kingdom with Petra as the capital. The Transjordan region was ruled by various empires, including the Assyrian, Babylonian, Roman, Byzantine, Rashidun, Umayyad, Abbasid, and the Ottoman empires. In 1916, during World War I, the Greater Syria region was partitioned by Britain and France, and the Emirate of Transjordan was established in 1921 by the Hashemite, then Emir, Abdullah I. Jordan gained independence in 1946 and became officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The country captured the West Bank during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War and annexed it until it was lost to Israel in 1967. Jordan renounced its claim to the territory in 1988 and signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1994, becoming the second Arab state to do so.

Jordan has a population of 10 million and is the eleventh-most populous Arab country. The majority of the population, around 95%, is Sunni Muslim, with a mostly Arab Christian minority. The country is semi-arid and covers an area of 89,342 km2 (34,495 sq mi).

Jordan has been mostly unscathed by the violence that swept the region following the Arab Spring in 2010. The country has accepted refugees from multiple neighboring countries in conflict, and an estimated 2.1 million Palestinian and 1.4 million Syrian refugees were present in Jordan as of a 2015 census, with most Palestinian refugees holding Jordanian citizenship. The kingdom is also a refuge to thousands of Christian Iraqis fleeing persecution by the Islamic State. While Jordan continues to accept refugees, the recent large influx from Syria placed substantial strain on national resources and infrastructure.

The king of Jordan holds wide executive and legislative powers, and the country is a constitutional monarchy. Jordan is a founding member of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation. The country has a high Human Development Index, ranking 102nd, and is considered an upper-middle-income economy. The Jordanian economy, one of the smallest economies in the region, is attractive to foreign investors based upon a skilled workforce. The country is a major tourist destination, also attracting medical tourism due to its well-developed health sector. Nonetheless, a lack of natural resources, large flow of refugees, and regional turmoil have hampered economic growth.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

The country of Jordan is named after the Jordan River, which forms much of its northwestern border. The origin of the river’s name is believed to come from the Hebrew word Yarad, meaning “the descender”, which reflects the river’s declivity. In the past, the area that now comprises modern-day Jordan was called Transjordan, which meant “across the Jordan”, referring to the lands situated east of the river. The Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Testament, referred to this region as Ever ha’Yarden, which means “the other side of the Jordan”. Early Arab chronicles also used the name Al-Urdunn to refer to the river, which corresponds to the Hebrew word Yarden. During the early Islamic era, Jund Al-Urdunn was a military district located around the river, and during the Crusades in the second millennium, a lordship was established in the area under the name of Oultrejordain.

HISTORY

Jordan is a Middle Eastern country located on the eastern bank of the Jordan River. The region has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Over the centuries, the land that is now Jordan has been ruled by numerous empires and civilizations, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottoman Turks.

During the early 20th century, the region that is now Jordan was part of the Ottoman Empire. After World War I, the Ottoman Empire was dissolved, and the area became a mandate of the British Empire. In 1921, the Emirate of Transjordan was established, and it became an independent kingdom in 1946.

Jordan has been a key player in the Arab-Israeli conflict since the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. In 1967, Jordan lost control of the West Bank and East Jerusalem to Israel during the Six-Day War. This event had a significant impact on the country, as it resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees to Jordan.

In the years that followed, Jordan struggled with economic and political challenges, including high unemployment and a lack of natural resources. However, the country has made significant progress in recent years, with a growing economy and increasing levels of education and social development.

Today, Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. It is a relatively stable country in a region that has seen a great deal of political upheaval and conflict. Jordan is also known for its cultural and historical sites, including the ancient city of Petra, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The King of Jordan serves as the head of state, with executive authority vested in the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the King. The King also has the power to dissolve parliament, approve or veto legislation, and appoint and dismiss judges.

The parliament of Jordan consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of the House of Representatives are elected by popular vote for four-year terms, while members of the Senate are appointed by the King for four-year terms.

The Prime Minister and Cabinet are responsible for managing the day-to-day affairs of the government, including the implementation of legislation passed by the parliament. The Cabinet is appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.

The judicial system in Jordan is independent, with judges appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Higher Judicial Council. The legal system is based on civil law, with elements of Islamic law.

Jordan is known for its relatively stable political climate, despite being located in a region that has seen a great deal of conflict and instability. However, the country has faced challenges in recent years, including economic and social issues, as well as the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis.

The government of Jordan has made efforts to address these challenges, including through economic reforms and the implementation of social welfare programs. Jordan also plays an active role in regional and international affairs, and has been a key player in efforts to resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict.

ECONOMY

Jordan has a mixed economy that is heavily dependent on services, particularly tourism and finance. The country has a relatively small industrial sector, and agriculture accounts for a small percentage of GDP.

Jordan has made significant progress in recent years in terms of economic growth and development. However, the country still faces a number of challenges, including high levels of unemployment, particularly among youth, and a reliance on foreign aid and remittances.

One of the main drivers of the Jordanian economy is the tourism sector. The country is home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the ancient city of Petra, which attracts millions of visitors each year. The government has made efforts to develop the tourism industry further, including through the construction of new hotels and resorts.

Jordan is also a hub for finance and banking in the region, with a number of international and regional banks operating in the country. The government has implemented a number of reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business climate, including the simplification of business regulations and the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles.

In recent years, the government has also launched a number of initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in the technology sector. These efforts have included the establishment of a number of start-up incubators and accelerators, as well as the introduction of new policies aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship.

Despite these positive developments, Jordan still faces a number of economic challenges, including high levels of public debt, a large budget deficit, and a shortage of natural resources. However, the government is committed to addressing these challenges through continued economic reforms and investment in key sectors of the economy.

GEOGRAPHY

Jordan is a Middle Eastern country that is bordered by Syria to the north, Iraq to the northeast, Saudi Arabia to the south and east, and Israel and Palestine to the west. The country has a total area of approximately 89,342 square kilometers (34,495 square miles), and a population of around 10 million people.

Jordan is primarily a desert country, with much of its terrain covered by sand and rocky desert landscapes. The eastern part of the country is dominated by the Arabian Desert, while the western part is characterized by rugged mountain ranges and fertile valleys. The Jordan River runs along the western border of the country and forms part of the boundary with Israel and Palestine.

Despite its arid climate, Jordan has a number of significant water resources, including the Jordan River, which flows southward from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. The country also has several major wadis, or dry riverbeds, that provide important sources of water during the rainy season.

Jordan is home to a number of important natural and cultural sites, including the ancient city of Petra, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The country is also home to a number of nature reserves and national parks, including the Dana Biosphere Reserve, which is known for its diverse plant and animal life.

Jordan’s location at the crossroads of the Middle East has played an important role in its history and culture, and the country has been shaped by a variety of different influences, from ancient civilizations to modern political conflicts. Despite its challenges, Jordan remains a vibrant and culturally rich country that is home to a diverse and hospitable population.

TRANSPORT

Jordan has a modern and well-developed transportation system, with a range of options available for both domestic and international travel.

Air travel is a popular mode of transportation in Jordan, with several international airports located throughout the country. The largest airport is Queen Alia International Airport, located just outside the capital city of Amman. This airport serves as a major hub for both national carrier Royal Jordanian Airlines and several other international airlines, providing connections to destinations throughout the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.

In addition to air travel, Jordan has a well-developed road network that includes a number of modern highways and expressways. The country also has an extensive system of intercity buses, with services provided by both private and public operators. Taxis and private cars are also widely available, particularly in urban areas.

Jordan also has a modern railway system, with services provided by the state-owned Jordan Hejaz Railway. The railway connects the capital city of Amman with several other major cities throughout the country, including Zarqa, Ma’an, and Aqaba. The railway is also a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic journeys through some of Jordan’s most beautiful landscapes.

Finally, Jordan has a well-developed maritime transport sector, with several ports located along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. These ports provide connections to destinations throughout the Middle East and beyond, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Overall, Jordan’s transportation system is efficient, reliable, and relatively affordable, making it easy for visitors and locals alike to travel throughout the country and beyond.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

Jordan’s economy is driven primarily by the services sector, particularly tourism and finance. However, the country also has a small but growing industrial sector, with several key industries contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

The manufacturing sector is one of the most important industrial sectors in Jordan, accounting for around 14% of GDP. The sector is diversified, with a range of products produced, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and chemicals. The sector has been growing in recent years, driven by government policies aimed at promoting industrial development and the country’s strategic location as a trade hub.

The mining and quarrying sector is another important industrial sector in Jordan, accounting for around 4% of GDP. The sector is dominated by the production of phosphate, which is a major export commodity for the country. Jordan is also home to significant reserves of other minerals, including copper, manganese, and uranium, although these resources are not currently being fully exploited.

The energy sector is also an important contributor to the Jordanian economy, with a particular focus on renewable energy. The country has abundant sources of solar and wind power, and the government has launched a number of initiatives aimed at promoting investment in the renewable energy sector. Jordan is also exploring the potential for developing its oil shale resources, which could help to reduce the country’s dependence on imported energy.

Finally, the agriculture sector plays an important role in Jordan’s economy, although it accounts for only around 3% of GDP. The sector is focused primarily on the production of olives, fruits, and vegetables, and is supported by a range of government programs aimed at promoting agricultural development and improving productivity.

Overall, Jordan’s industrial sector is relatively small but diversified, with a number of key industries contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth and development.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Jordan has a population of approximately 10 million people, with a relatively young and growing population. The country is diverse in terms of ethnicity and religion, with the majority of the population being of Arab descent and practicing Sunni Islam.

The population is concentrated in urban areas, particularly in the capital city of Amman, which is home to around 4 million people. Other major cities include Zarqa, Irbid, and Aqaba.

The official language of Jordan is Arabic, although English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and in the business community. The literacy rate in Jordan is relatively high, with over 95% of the population able to read and write.

Jordan has a relatively high standard of living compared to other countries in the region, although poverty and unemployment remain significant challenges. The country has a relatively well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private healthcare providers available to the population. Education is also a priority, with the government investing in education and promoting initiatives aimed at improving access to education for all.

Jordan is home to a significant refugee population, particularly from neighboring Syria and Palestine. The country has provided support and aid to these refugees, although the influx of refugees has placed significant strain on the country’s resources and infrastructure.

In terms of demographics, Jordan is a young and growing country, with a population that is projected to continue to increase in the coming years. The government is working to promote sustainable growth and development, while also addressing the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and the refugee crisis.

EDUCATION

Education is a priority in Jordan, with the government investing heavily in education and promoting initiatives aimed at improving access to education for all.

Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and the country has made significant progress in increasing enrollment rates and reducing gender disparities in education. The education system in Jordan is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.

At the primary level, students are required to complete six years of education, while at the secondary level, students have the option to pursue either a general or vocational education track. The government has launched a number of initiatives aimed at promoting vocational education and training, in an effort to address the country’s high levels of youth unemployment.

Jordan has a well-developed system of higher education, with several universities and colleges offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The largest university in Jordan is the University of Jordan, located in the capital city of Amman. Other major universities include Jordan University of Science and Technology, Yarmouk University, and the University of Petra.

The quality of education in Jordan is relatively high, with the country ranking above the regional average in terms of educational attainment and literacy rates. However, the education system in Jordan faces several challenges, including inadequate funding, outdated teaching methods, and a shortage of qualified teachers.

Overall, education is a priority in Jordan, with the government working to improve access to education, promote vocational training, and enhance the quality of education at all levels.

HEALTHCARE