Jordan

Jordan, officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a landlocked country in Western Asia, known for its historical sites, diverse culture, and strategic position in the Middle East.

Jordan covers an area of about 89,342 km², bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and east, Iraq to the northeast, Syria to the north, Israel and the West Bank to the west, and the Red Sea via the Gulf of Aqaba to the south. Its terrain ranges from the coastal desert along the Sea of Galilee to the mountainous regions of the Jordan Rift Valley, and the famed Wadi Rum desert.

Jordanian culture blends Arab traditions with Bedouin heritage. Arabic is the official language, while English is widely understood. The population is predominantly Muslim, with a Christian minority. Traditional music, dance such as the dabke, and cuisine featuring dishes like mansaf (sheep's milk yogurt rice dish) reflect the country’s rich heritage.

The area that is now Jordan has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements. It later became part of Canaan, the Ammonite kingdom, and the Hashemite-led Arab Revolt. In 1921, it was established as the Emirate of Transjordan under British mandate, gaining independence in 1946. Jordan has since been a constitutional monarchy under the Hashemite dynasty.

This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.