The Kingdom of Jordan, which once captivated ancient travelers, continues to enthrall a whole new generation as a modern, vibrant nation.
From the haunting, primeval starkness of Wadi Rum, to the teeming center of urban Amman; from the majestic ruins of bygone civilizations to the timeless splendor of the Dead Sea, Jordan is unveiled as a unique destination offering breathtaking and mysterious sights, high standard accommodations, exquisite cuisine and countless activities that can provide visitors with inspiration, motivation, and rejuvenation.
Marveling at herds of gazelles and oryx and migrating birds, camping amidst the grandeur of Wadi Rum or Dana Reserve, trekking the ancient caravan trails from the highlands of Moab and Edom, hiking the wooded hills of biblical Gilead, or experiencing the unique, cleaning mud baths of the Dead Sea are just but a few examples.
The new stream of luxury hotels emerging in Amman, Petra, Aqaba and the Dead Sea is just adding quality to a refined product that is distinct, accessible and friendly. A product that is home to a new display of modern meeting facilities and unique venues for incentive travel.
Whether it is a conference for 5000 people, a lavish dinner in the peerless desert of Wadi Rum, a barbecue at the shores of the Dead Sea ( the lowest point on earth ), or a reception atop a medieval castle overlooking the Jordan Valley, the amicable and competent people of Jordan will ensure a once in a life time memorable encountering.
Quick Facts:
Population: 5,315,987 (October 2002 est.)
Ethnic groups: Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Languages: Arabic (official), English widely understood
Country name:
Conventional long form: Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Conventional short form: Jordan
Local short form: Al Urdun
Local long form: Al Mamlakah al Urduniyah al Hashimiyah
Former: Transjordan
Government type: constitutional monarchy
Capital: Amman
Administrative divisions:
12 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Ajlun, Al 'Aqabah, Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Jarash, Ma'an, Madaba
Executive Branch:
Chief of state: King Abdallah II (since 7 February 1999); Crown Prince HAMZAH (half brother of the monarch, born 29 March 1980)
head of government: Prime Minister Ali Abul RAGHEB (since 19 June 2000)
Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the monarch
Currency: Jordanian dinar (JOD)
Religions:
Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 6% (majority Greek Orthodox, but some Greek and Roman Catholics, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, and Protestant denominations), other 2%
Land boundaries: 1,635 km
Border countries:
Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 744 km, Syria 375 km, West Bank 97 km
