If you are planning to go to Jordan to work or visit, you need to know that there are practices there that are worthy to point. Why? Because you might not get used to it the first time you see people from Jordan doing such actions or behavior. It’s essential that even before you go to the country, you already have an idea of what to expect. The people in Jordan have what they call the dos and don’ts. These are the things that you can practice in the country. “Don’ts,” on the other hand, are the things to avoid.
Also Read: Philippine Embassy in Amman, Jordan
In this article, you will learn the dos and don’ts in Jordan. We made this blog to help not just OFWs but expats around the world. If you don’t have any idea what actions are accepted, you might end up doing rude things. This is why it’s important that you are aware of their culture and laws. You can’t just fly to Jordan without gearing yourself up with something that can help you understand what people there normally do.
We hope that this will guide you in your journey to Jordan. Here’s how you can behave in Jordan and the dos and don’ts.
How to Behave when you are in Jordan
To behave in Jordan, you have to know first what’s rude and what’s not. In this way, you can sort out the things that you don’t necessarily need to practice. Also, you can manage your expectations with this information.
Do’s in Jordan
Now, let’s talk about the things you can do Jordan, Here are the dos that you can practice while you are in Jordan. You will normally see people doing these things and it’s normal.
- Do speak in English. Most people in Jordan speak in English. You don’t have to push yourself to communicate using their local language. Speaking in English is normal and you can definitely enjoy touring around the city.
- Do wear your most fashionable clothes and accessories. In Jordan, you will find women who wear their most fashionable sense. So, if women look pretty with their hijab, they wear it because they like it. Fashion depends on every person and place in Jordan. You will get more used to it when you spend your time in Jordan. Also, you might learn to adopt their fashion sense and that’s a good thing.
- Do be polite and kind. They say that people in Jordan are polite and kind. You should reciprocate in order to show how you appreciate their politeness and kindness.
- Do offer to shake hands when meeting people. It’s okay to shake hands in Jordan. It’s part of the country’s appreciation of meeting someone, whether it’s for business or not.
- Do stand up when you are greeting other people. It’s a common practice in Jordan to stand up when giving greetings.
- Do let your host know that you are done drinking Arabic coffee by shaking your cup side to side. This is a common practice in Jordan. Practice this etiquette and you will definitely get used to this behavior.
Don’ts in Jordan
The don’ts in Jordan are the things you should avoid doing so you won’t look rude in the eyes of the locals.
- Don’t cover your hair or wear long sleeves. It’s pretty normal in Jordan to dress up casually. There is no need for you to cover your hair if you are a woman, You can also wear sleeveless especially during summer.
- Don’t shake hands with conservative men and women. Although you can generally shake hands with people when you meet, it’s better to avoid shaking the hands of women if you are a conservative mean. That’s what people in Jordan practice. So, if you are offering to shake hands, don’t feel rejected when some men or women don’t offer their hands.
- Don’t direct the sole of your shoes to someone. This just means that you should avoid putting your feet on the table or on your legs when you are with someone.
- Don’t interrupt a Muslim who is praying. Make sure that you don’t interrupt or pass by a Muslim who is praying. This is a sign of respect to Muslims. Since Jordan is basically a Muslim country, you will see a lot of Muslims praying.
- Don’t eat, smoke, or drink in public during Ramadan. This is also a way to show respect to Muslims in Jordan who are currently in their fasting. Ramadan is a sacrifice for them as they pray and fast at the same time. So, ensure that you avoid this.
- Don’t dress too revealing clothes. Although it’s normal not to wear hair dresses or long sleeves, this doesn’t mean that you are encouraged to wear revealing clothes. Remember that Jordan is still a Muslim country. There’s a dress code that you should follow. Wear decent clothes when walking. Wear casual dresses, blouses, pants, and other clothes that reveal your shoulders and knees.
- Don’t feel uncomfortable when an Arab pecks you on the cheeks. This is a greeting from an Arab. Don’t feel uncomfortable when someone does this to you. It’s pretty normal in Jordan.
- Don’t feel bad when a host overfeeds you during a party. This is also normal in Jordan. You should appreciate local food by enjoying what the host offer to you. Whether you are at a party or invited over a meal, expect that an Arab will offer more local food to you for consumption.
Final Thoughts
Learning the dos and don’ts is a good way to start adapting to your new environment. So, even if you haven’t been to Jordan, you will have an idea of what to expect. For example, if you are planning to wear revealing clothes because it makes you comfortable, think twice. Jordan is not a country where you can freely wear revealing clothes. It’s normal to feel awkward when you first see people practice their traditions or culture. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it as time passes by. You will also learn some of their things not mentioned in this article.