Jordan

World Book Index

Introduction

Jordan, officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a nation steeped in history and cultural significance. Established in the aftermath of World War I, it emerged from the remnants of the Ottoman Empire when the League of Nations entrusted Britain with its governance. In 1921, the British delineated the territory of Transjordan from Palestine, granting it a degree of autonomy. This region eventually gained full independence in 1946, marking the birth of modern Jordan. Today, Jordan stands as a beacon of stability in a tumultuous region, characterized by its rich heritage, diverse population, and strategic geopolitical position.

Neighboring countries

Iraq - Israel - Saudi Arabia - Syria - West Bank

Geography

Area
Total: 89,342 sq km
Land: 88,802 sq km
Water: 540 sq km

Jordan's geography is predominantly characterized by its arid desert landscape, which covers much of the country. The climate is largely arid, with a rainy season occurring in the western regions from November to April. This climatic condition significantly influences the agricultural practices and water resource management in the country. Despite its limited water resources, Jordan is endowed with valuable natural resources, including phosphates, potash, and shale oil, which play a crucial role in its economy and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 11,174,024 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Jordanian 69.3%, Syrian 13.3%, Palestinian 6.7%, Egyptian 6.7%, Iraqi 1.4%, other 2.6% (2015 estimated)

Languages
Arabic (official), English (widely understood among upper and middle classes)

Religions
Muslim 97.1% (official; predominantly Sunni), Christian 2.1% (majority Greek Orthodox, but some Greek and Roman Catholics, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, and Protestant denominations), Buddhist 0.4%, Hindu 0.1%, Jewish <0.1%, folk <0.1%, other <0.1%, unaffiliated <0.1% (2020 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.78% (2024 estimated)

Jordan's population is a mosaic of ethnicities, with Jordanians making up the majority at 69.3%. The country has also seen significant migration, particularly from Syria and Palestine, which has contributed to its diverse demographic landscape. The official language is Arabic, while English is widely spoken, especially among the upper and middle classes, facilitating communication and business. The religious composition is predominantly Muslim, with a significant Christian minority, reflecting the country's historical ties to various faiths. The population growth rate of 0.78% indicates a steady increase, influenced by both natural growth and migration patterns.

Government

Government type
Parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Capital
Name: Amman

Executive branch
Chief of state: King ABDALLAH II (since 7 February 1999)
Head of government: Prime Minister Jafar HASSAN (since 15 September 2024)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Dina Khalil Tawfiq KAWAR (since 27 June 2016)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Peter T. SHEA (since 29 June 2025)

Jordan operates under a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, where the King serves as the head of state and holds significant powers, including the appointment of the Prime Minister and the cabinet. The capital city, Amman, is the political and administrative center of the country. The current monarch, King ABDALLAH II, has been in power since 1999 and plays a pivotal role in shaping Jordan's domestic and foreign policies. The government structure allows for a degree of parliamentary representation, although the King retains substantial authority over key decisions.

Economy

Economic overview
Upper-middle-income Middle Eastern economy; high debt and unemployment, especially for youth and women; global events triggering trade slump and decreased revenue from tourism; growing manufacturing and agricultural sectors; key US foreign assistance recipient; natural-resource-poor and import-reliant

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$109.986 billion (2024 estimated)
$107.315 billion (2023 estimated)
$104.307 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$9,500 (2024 estimated)
$9,400 (2023 estimated)
$9,300 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$22.186 billion (2023 estimated)
$20.743 billion (2022 estimated)
$13.87 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
USA 21%, India 13%, Saudi Arabia 11%, China 7%, Iraq 6% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Fertilizers, garments, phosphates, jewelry, phosphoric acid (2023)

Imports
$28.922 billion (2023 estimated)
$30.019 billion (2022 estimated)
$23.321 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 17%, Saudi Arabia 14%, UAE 8%, India 6%, USA 5% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Cars, refined petroleum, gold, crude petroleum, jewelry (2023)

Jordan's economy is classified as an upper-middle-income economy, yet it faces significant challenges, including high levels of debt and unemployment, particularly among youth and women. The economic landscape has been further complicated by global events that have led to a decline in trade and a decrease in tourism revenue, which is vital for the country's economy. Despite these challenges, Jordan has seen growth in its manufacturing and agricultural sectors, which are becoming increasingly important for economic diversification. The country remains heavily reliant on imports due to its limited natural resources, making it a key recipient of foreign assistance, particularly from the United States. The real GDP, adjusted for purchasing power parity, reflects a steady growth trajectory, indicating resilience in the face of economic adversity.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.754, ranking it 100th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 122nd out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.377. (more information)