Local Customs & Etiquette in Amman, Jordan
1. Greetings and Salutations
A firm handshake is customary in Jordan. It's also common to greet with 'Assalamu Alaikum' (Peace be upon you), especially among Muslims.
- Politeness: Shows respect and courtesy to the person you are meeting.
- Religious Respect: Demonstrates understanding and awareness of local religious practices.
- Cross-cultural Awareness: Helps in building a positive first impression.
2. Dress Code
Modest dress is expected for both men and women. Avoid showing too much skin, especially in public places.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respects local customs and values.
- Comfort: Ensures comfort in the warm climate of Amman.
- Safety: Avoids attracting unwanted attention in crowded areas.
3. Table Manners
Use your right hand for eating and drinking. Refusing food is considered rude, so accept it politely.
- Cultural Etiquette: Shows understanding of local customs.
- Politeness: Avoids causing offense to your host or companions.
- Health and Hygiene: Helps in maintaining good personal hygiene practices.
4. Tipping
Tipping is expected in restaurants and taxis. A 10% tip is considered standard.
- Appreciation: Shows appreciation for good service.
- Custom: Follows local customs and expectations.
- Encouragement: Encourages good service in the future.
5. Hospitality
Jordanians are known for their hospitality. If invited to someone's home, accept graciously.
- Respect: Shows respect for the host and their family.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs and values.
- Openness: Builds a bridge for cross-cultural friendships.
6. Public Behavior
Be respectful in public places, especially religious sites. Avoid public displays of affection.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respects local customs and values.
- Awareness: Helps in avoiding unnecessary conflicts.
- Safety: Avoids attracting unwanted attention.
7. Gift-giving
If invited to a Jordanian home, it's customary to bring a small gift. Avoid alcohol or pork products.
- Appreciation: Shows gratitude for the invitation.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs and taboos.
- Thoughtfulness: Shows thoughtfulness towards the host.
8. Business Etiquette
Punctuality is expected. Dress conservatively and maintain eye contact during conversations.
- Professionalism: Shows respect for business meetings.
- Timeliness: Respects the other party's time.
- Cross-cultural Awareness: Helps in building a positive professional relationship.
9. Photography Etiquette
Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Be respectful at religious sites.
- Respect: Shows respect for the privacy and dignity of individuals.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates understanding of local customs and taboos.
- Awareness: Helps in avoiding conflicts or misunderstandings.
10. Ramadan Etiquette
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Respect: Shows respect for the religious practices of Muslims.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates understanding and awareness of local customs.
- Safety: Avoids attracting unwanted attention or causing offense.
11. Visiting Souks (Markets)
Bargaining is expected in souks. Be polite and respectful during negotiations.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs.
- Negotiation Skills: Helps in getting a fair price for goods.
- Patience: Aids in the bargaining process without causing offense.
12. Eid al-Fitr
During Eid al-Fitr, dress modestly and avoid eating or drinking in public during the morning prayer.
- Respect: Shows respect for religious practices.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrates understanding of local customs.
- Safety: Avoids attracting unwanted attention or causing offense.
13. Eid al-Adha
During Eid al-Adha, avoid visiting during the first three days of the holiday as many people are celebrating.
- Respect: Shows respect for religious practices.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs.
- Flexibility: Adapts to changes in plans due to local celebrations.
14. Visiting Bedouin Camps
When visiting Bedouin camps, be respectful and follow their customs. Offer tea or coffee as a gesture of friendship.
- Respect: Shows respect for the local culture.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of Bedouin customs.
- Friendliness: Builds a bridge for cross-cultural friendships.
15. Visiting Homes
When visiting homes, remove your shoes and wash your hands before entering.
- Respect: Shows respect for the cleanliness of the home.
- Cultural Understanding: Demonstrates understanding of local customs.
- Cleanliness: Helps in maintaining good personal hygiene practices.