Language

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LANGUAGE

The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely spoken – especially in the cities. Many Jordanians have travelled or have been educated abroad so French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken, but to a lesser extent.

When Arabic is written in Jordan using the Latin alphabet, English spelling is applied however these spellings can be interpreted in various ways, the spelling for example of street addresses can vary widely. For this reason, the sounds of the words is a much better guide than the spelling.

Speaking Arabic is easier than you might think and attempting a few basic words will gain you respect from the locals and is a good way to break the ice. The Jordanian people are extremely understanding and will help you whenever they are able.

Here are a few useful words and phrases to get you started:

ENGLISH

ARABIC

Yes		Na'am
No		Laa
Please		Min fadlak (to a man)
		Min fadlik (to a woman)
Thank you		Shukran
You're welcome		Afwan
Hello		Marhaba
Goodbye		Ma'asalameh
What is your name?		Shoo ismek?
Please		Lao samaht
Excuse me		'An iznek
What time is it?		Edesh el sa'aa?
How much?		Addeysh?
I don't speak Arabic		Ana laa ahkee Arabee
One		Waahid
Two		Tinain
Three		Talaateh
Four		Arba'a
Five		Khamseh
Six		Sitteh
Seven		Sab'a
Eight		Tamenyeh
Nine		Tis'a
Ten		'Ashra
Left		Shmaal
Right		Yameen
Straight		Dughree

Arabic numbers are easy to read - in fact, the western numerical system was originally derived from the Arabic system. Unlike the words, Arabic numerals are read from left to right (the same as western numerals). A good way to practice is by reading vehicle registration plates, which carry both sets of numbers.

Some of the worlds earliest known churches have been recently discovered in Jordan. The remains of a mud brick building in Aqaba may be the worlds oldest known purpose built church. This Aqaba early church dates from the late 3rd or early 4th century AD

On May 25th 1946, Britain gave up its mandate on Transjordan and Jordan became the independent Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

An economic 'Free Zone' was established in Aqaba in August 2000. It covers one million square meters, although an additional 2.5 million square meters has been allocated for the purpose of establishing industrial projects. Goods traded in the Free Zone are exempt of duty. For more information please visit www.aqabazone.com.