JORDAN’S CULTURE MIXES INFLUENCES FROM EAST AND WEST, OLD AND NEW.
Jordan is unusual for a Middle Eastern country in that it has avoided most of the upheavals that have plagued other countries in the region for much of the past 40 years. Being ruled by a moderate monarchy that respects its subjects, it has acted as a safe haven for refugees from all over the Middle East and beyond. As a melting pot of different ethnic groups, the liberal nature of this country has allowed immigrants to keep their traditions while assimilating them into the greater culture.
Every region of Jordan has its own personality; Amman has plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and art galleries. Some areas like Al Weibdeh feel cosmopolitan with a multitude of street cafes and a lot of ex-pats can be seen walking about, while Abdoun is known for its high-end restaurants and vibrant life scene. The old downtown area feels like it is still stuck in the 1950s.
About 95% of the population is Muslim, but there is an important Christian minority of 5%. Jordan is home to Bedouins, Palestinians, Armenians, Circassians and Kurds amongst others.
The younger generation has created a unique local pop culture. Jordan is considered the IT capital of the middle east, and home to the best-educated population in the Levant. The main export of Jordan is its white-collar workers, and most of the teachers, engineers and managers in the Gulf hail from Jordan.