welcome to jordan guide
TRANSCRIPT
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
WELCOME TO JORDAN
A practical guide to everyday life in Jordan
Jordan LESA Local Expatriate Spouse Association
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Ahlan wa Sahalan!
Welcome to Jordan - your new home!
On behalf of LESA, we extend a warm welcome to Amman! We hope that you will seize the opportunity to experience the beauty of Jordan, a country rich in history and culture and we hope that you will find great personal and professional fulfilment while here. In that spirit, we have created this document to help ease your transition.
The Welcome to Jordan guide is intended for use by expatriate staff and their families only. The content herein is based on opinions and the personal experience of LESA members living in Jordan, and do not reflect official UN policy, recommendations, or guidelines. It is intended that the information contained in this document is accurate, reliable and as complete as possible; however prices change, businesses open and close, and political and economic situations change. To make this document useful and keep it up-to-date, please send your comments and suggestions to [email protected]. We value your feedback.
Credits
Special thanks to Anne-Marie Kerrigan-Deriche and Julie Macdonald, founding members of the Jordan LESA,
for drafting and assembling the original document from a number of sources
UNRWA HQ for their Welcome to Jordan version on which this document was built Melinda Wells and Jane Bennett and UNRC staff for updates
Jane Paddock and Abigail Garner for assembling the second edition
December 2013
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Jordan LESA supports spouses & partners of expatriate staff Jordan LESA assists globally mobile families adapt to new duty stations and helps spouses and partners of expatriate
staff find jobs and maintain their professional careers.
Jordan LESA welcomes spouses and partners of international staff working with United Nations agencies, embassies, NGOs and other international organizations. Visit our website http://jordanlesa.org/ to register or contact us on [email protected] .
What can Jordan LESA offer members? Free Welcome to Jordan Guide with information for expat families arriving and living in Jordan.
Get a copy from http://jordanlesa.org
Meet other internationals at Jordan LESA meetings.
Join our Email List of vacancies, training, and volunteering opportunities. Get on a Roster that promotes the talent pool of professionals directly to Agency Human Resources Staff. Join our Online Professional Networking Group. Network with Employers. Jordan LESA liaises with the UN agencies, embassies, and international and non-governmental organizations to provide information, and organize activities in support of spouse employment.
What can Jordan LESA offer organizations? Through Jordan LESA, UN agencies, embassies, international and non-governmental organizations have access to a pool of skilled people to fill short-term international vacancies and specialist roles. Contact us if you would like to receive the monthly roster of Jordan LESA members available for work. Join Jordan LESA’s online LinkedIn group to see the CVs of internationals who are here in Jordan, available for work. Contact Jordan LESA on [email protected] with information about the position you need to fill and the type of person you’re looking for. We will email it to members who are available for work. Candidates will contact you directly.
http://jordanlesa.org/ Seeking Employment in Jordan Tip 1
Update your CV. Emphasize experience in international settings, United Nations, development and humanitarian
work, governmental and military contexts. A P11 will also be useful if you are going for United Nations work. Be
prepared to enter, and re-enter all of this information from your CV into online recruitment systems for any United
Nations agency you are wishing to apply to. It is very rare that they will accept an emailed CV although sometimes for
short term contracts and consultancies you may be lucky.
Each United Nations work setting is a separate organization with its own human resources and recruiting systems. Be
prepared to learn about each one you might be interested in, watch their websites, and apply for vacancies. 5
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Tip 2
Cold call. If you know who you want to work for and where your skill-set fits best, find out who's who and phone and
write and meet the people here. Get known. Be brave and confident. Listen and learn. Ask if you can volunteer. Many
places accept volunteers including some United Nations agencies.
Tip 3
Search Sebastian's List: http://www.unjoblist.org/
Set up an email alert so that you get sent everything for Jordan, for your level and areas of expertise, weekly.
Tip 4
Search these excellent sites for NGOs that work for the Iraq operation:
www.reliefweb.int www.devex.com
www.developmentaid.org www.ncciraq.org
Tip 5.
Go to the websites of the big UN employers in Amman. UNRWA HQ and UNRWA JFO employ the most
internationals out of the UN agencies represented here. They are open to hiring locally. And they often have
consultancies and temporary assignments which LESA members can be considered for.
UNRWA https://jobs.unrwa.org/frmHomePage.aspx
Tip 6
Search the websites of the UN agencies who are in Amman. The United Nations Agencies in Jordan website can be
helpful here. http://jo.one.un.org/index.php?page_type=pages&page_id=369
Some UN agencies in Amman:
UNDP http://jobs.undp.org/cj_view_jobs.cfm?consult=1
UNESCO http://www.unesco.org/en/amman/about-the-unesco-office-in-amman/locally-advertised-vacancies-at-
unescos-office-in-amman/
UNFPA
UNHCR
UNHABITAT
UNICEF
UNOPS
UNRWA
UNWOMEN
FAO
IOM
WHO
WFP Also check
https://erecruit.partneragencies.org/erecruit.html
http://www.unhcr.org/pages/49c3646c491.html
http://www.unchs.org/list.asp?typeid=12&catid=435
http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/index.php
http://www.unops.org/english/whoweneed/Pages/Vacancies.aspx
https://jobs.unrwa.org/frmHomePage.aspx
http://www.unifem.org.jo/Pages/vacancies.aspx
http://www.fao.org/employment/en/
http://www.iom.int/jahia/Jahia/current-vacancies
http://www.who.int/employment/vacancies/en/
http://www.wfp.org/about/vacancies
UN Secretariat and Peace Keeping https://jobs.un.org/Galaxy/Release3/vacancy/vacancy.aspx?lang=1200
and All the other Agencies - http://icsc.un.org/joblinks.asp
Tip 7
United Nations Volunteers offers job opportunities with the UN. www.unvolunteers.org
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Tip 8
Consultancy is a really great way to get started, and sometimes consultancies are advertised locally (but in a different
place on the website from the permanent position) or they may be arranged globally
Tip 10
International NGOs
There are about forty iNGOs in Amman including those listed below. Most vacancies in these are advertised on
Reliefweb. But also look for their individual websites and contact them directly if your skills match their areas of work.
Offer to volunteer, to get known, and to get local experience.
Tip 11
Volunteer in a national NGO. This can be a great way to contribute, to get local experience, and to keep up your
confidence and your work habits while you're re-establishing yourself in a new place. National NGOs are often very eager
to make the most of the skills internationals can offer. Find these through embassies, international schools, and word of
mouth.
Tip 12
Remember the organizations which are connected to the Embassies, such as the aid, trade, and development
agencies connected to embassies, for example::
British Council http://www.britishcouncil.org/jordan-about_us_vacancy.htm
US Aid USAID positions in Jordan: http://jordan.usaid.gov/en/Opportunities/Pages/Jobs.aspx
U.S. Embassy in Amman's webpage: http://jordan.usembassy.gov/hr_open_vacancies.html
Tip 13 LESA
Be sure you are connected and that your contact detail information and availability is accurate.
Roster Jordan LESA promotes the talent pool of professionals directly to UN agencies, regularly updating Human Re-
sources staff with a roster of members available for work
Online professional networking Share your Curriculum Vitae with employing Agencies here in Jordan. Register for-
Linked In and join Jordan LESA's online professional networking group. This is a managed group which only Jordan
LESA members and Agency contacts can belong to
Good Luck!
7 Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
8 Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
JORDAN AT A GLANCE
Location: Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia
Capital: Amman
Area:
total: 92,300 sq km land: 91,971 sq km water: 329 sq km
Land boundaries:
total: 1,635 km border countries: Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 744 km, Syria 375 km, West Bank 97 km
Climate: mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
Terrain: mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley separates East and West
Banks of the Jordan River
Elevation extremes:
lowest point: Dead Sea -408 m highest point: Jabal Ram 1,734 m
Natural resources: phosphates, potash, shale oil Population: 6,482,081 (July 2013 est.)
Age structure: 0 - 1 4 ye a r s : 3 4 . 6 % ( m a l e 1 , 1 5 4 , 7 9 1 / f e m a l e 1 , 0 8 9 , 9 0 1 )
15-24 years: 19.9% (male 661,516/female 625,311)
25-54 years: 36.2% (male 1,181,882/female 1,164,957)
55-64 years: 4.3% (male 133,371/female 142,636)
65 years and over: 5.1% (male 158,514/female 169,202) (2013 est.)
Median age: total: 22.4 years male: 22 years female: 22.7 years (2012 est.)
Population growth rate: -0.965% (2012 est.)
Birth rate: 26.52 births/1,000 population (2012 est.)
Death rate: 2.74 deaths/1,000 population (July 2012 est.)
Ethnic groups: Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Religions: Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 6% (majority Greek Orthodox, but some Greek and Roman Catho-
lics, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, and Protestant denominations), other 2% (several small Shi'a Muslim and Druze populations) (2001 est.)
Languages: Arabic (official), English widely understood, including in businesses.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
COUNTRY PROFILE
Geography
Jordan (Arabic: al-Urdunn), officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is situated at the junction of
the Levantine and Arabian areas of the Middle East. The country is bordered on the north by Syria, to the east by Iraq, and by Saudi Arabia on the east and south. To the west, is Israel and the occupied West Bank, while Jordan's only outlet to the sea, the Gulf of Aqaba, is to the south. Jordan is a relatively small country spread over 91,971 sq km, making it similar in size to Austria or Portugal. Distances are short and you can drive from Ramtha in the north to Aqaba in the south (430 km) in six hours. However, Jordan's diverse terrain and landscape belie its actual size, demonstrating a variety usually found only in large countries. Jordan can be divided into three main geographic and climatic areas: the Jordan Valley, the Mountain Heights Plateau, and the eastern desert, or Badia region.
The Jordan Valley
The Jordan Valley, which extends down the entire western flank of Jordan, is the country's most distinctive natural fea- ture. The Jordan Valley forms part of the Great Rift Valley of Africa, which extends down from southern Turkey through Lebanon and Syria to the salty depression of the Dead Sea, where it continues south through Aqaba and the Red Sea to eastern Africa. This fissure was created 20 million years ago by shifting tectonic plates.
The seaside city of Aqaba is Jordan's only outlet to the sea. Its 40 kilometer-long coastline houses not only a tourist resort and Jordan's only port, but also some of the finest coral reefs in the world. The rich marine life of these reefs provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
The Mountain Heights Plateau
The highlands of Jordan separate the Jordan Valley and its margins from the plains of the eastern desert. This region extends the entire length of the western part of the country, and hosts most of Jordan's main population centers, in- cluding Amman, Zarqa, Irbid and Karak. We know that ancient peoples found the area inviting as well, since one can visit the ruins of Jerash, Karak, Madaba, Petra and other historical sites that are found in the Mountain Heights Plat- eau. These areas receive Jordan's highest rainfall, and are the most richly vegetated in the country.
The Eastern Desert or Badia Region
Comprising around 75% of Jordan, this area of desert and desert steppe is part of what is known as the North Arab Desert. It stretches into Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, with elevations varying between 600 and 900 meters above sea level. Climate in the Badia varies widely between day and night, and between summer and winter. Daytime summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, while winter nights can be very cold, dry and windy. Rainfall is minimal throughout the year, averaging less than 50 millimeters annually. Although all the regions of the Badia (or desert) are united by their harsh desert climate, similar vegetation types and sparse concentrations of population, they vary considerably accord- ing to their underlying geology.
The volcanic formations of the northern Basalt Desert extend into Syria and Saudi Arabia, and are recognizable by the black basalt boulders that cover the landscape. East of the Basalt Desert, the Rweishid Desert is an undulating lime- stone plateau that extends to the Iraqi border. There is some grassland in this area, and some agriculture is practiced there. Northeast of Amman, the Eastern Desert is crossed by a multitude of vegetated wadis, and includes the Azraq Oasis and the Shomari Wildlife Reserve.
Climate
The climate depends on which part of the country you are in. However, one can say that it tends to be dry, sunny and
cloudless from May to November where temperature rises to about 32° C (90° F). From December to February the weather is cool and wet and most of the country's rainfall occurs. Freezing temperatures are not unknown. Snowfall often occurs, however, the average temperature in winter is above 7.2° C (45° F). Spring is from March to May, while autumn comes in September, October and early November.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Governance
Jordan has a constitutional monarchy with a representative government. The country is reigned by HM King Adbul-
lah II and his wife HM Queen Rania who is of Palestinian origin. They were married in 1993 and have four children: Hussein, Iman, Salma and Hashem. Administrative Structure
Administratively, Jordan is divided into 12 governorates, each headed by a governor appointed by the King:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Ajlun
Al 'Aqabah
Al Balqa'
Al Karak
Al Mafraq
6. 'Amman
7. At Tafilah
8. Az Zarqa'
9. Irbid
10. Jarash
The governorates are subdivided into approximately 52 nahias.
The Capital of Jordan is Amman. It's a city of more than 2.8 million inhabitants, and is the administrative capital and
commercial centre of Jordan.
Legal System
Jordan's legal system is based on Islamic law and French codes. Judicial review of legislative acts occurs in a special
High Tribunal. It has not accepted compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. The Jordanian legal system draws upon civil traditions as well as Islamic law and customs.
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 sound 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 very understanding and will help you whenever they are able.
Religion
More than 92% of Jordanians are Sunni Muslims, and about 6% are Christians who live mainly in Amman, Madaba,
Karak and Salt. The majority of Christians belong to the Greek Orthodox Church, but there are also Greek Catholics, a small Roman Catholic community, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox and a few Protestant de-
nominations found mostly in Amman. Small numbers of Shi'a and Druze populations can also be found in Jordan.
Education Jordan is a leader among Arab countries in educational spending as a percentage of GDP. Jordan's eight public universities, 13 private universities, 21 community colleges, and 35 vocational training centres house more than 140,000 students from around the globe and the Arab world, with the numbers of foreign students growing at a rate of 9% per annum.
The Jordanian government and the private sector, working with international IT initiatives, are investing considerable resources in primary and secondary education programs, elevating the IT know-how of Jordanian graduates. Jordan has a young population, 70 percent is under the age of 30 (about 3.8 million), and these programs are creating an impressive pool of bilingual, savvy IT graduates.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide September Economy Jordan's economy is relatively small among the Middle East nations, with inadequate supplies of water and other natural resources such as oil. Debt, poverty, and unemployment are fundamental problems, but King Abdullah, since assuming the throne in 1999, has undertaken some broad economic reforms in a long-term effort to improve living standards; this includes liberalizing the trade regime, privatizing state-owned companies, and eliminating some fuel subsidies. These measures helped improve productivity and have put Jordan on the foreign investment map. Despite that, the government relies heavily upon foreign assistance. Jordan suffers lingering effects from the 2003 war in Iraq. Jordan had previously imported most of its oil from Iraq, but the war in Iraq made Jordan more dependent on oil from other Gulf nations and forced the Jordanian Government to raise retail petroleum product prices and the sales tax base. The global economic slowdown, regional turmoil, and the Syrian refugee crisis (2012-2013) have further stretched Jordan's resources and economy and depressed Jordan's GDP growth, impacting construction, exports, and tourism. In 2011 and 2012, the government approved two economic relief packages and a budgetary supplement, meant to improve the living conditions for the middle and poor classes. Jordan's finances have also been strained by a series of natural gas pipeline attacks in Egypt, causing Jordan to substitute more expensive diesel imports, primarily from Saudi Arabia, to generate electricity. Jordan is currently exploring nuclear power generation in addition to the exploitation of abundant oil shale reserves and renewable technologies to forestall energy shortfalls. In 2012, to correct budgetary imbalances, Jordan entered into a $2.1 billion, multiple year International Monetary Fund Stand-By Arrangement. Jordan will continue to depend heavily on foreign assistance to finance the deficit in 2013 as it tries to create jobs, reduce its budget deficit, and reduce its dependence on foreign grants.
Time Jordan is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Weights and Measures Jordan uses the metric system. Business Hours (general rule)
Supermarkets: 09h00 to late
Shops and boutiques: 10h30 to 20h00 (opening hours at 14h00 on Fridays, including shopping malls)
Banks: 08h30 to 15h00 Sunday to Thursday (09h00 to 14h00 during Ramadan). Closed on Fridays & Saturdays.
Public offices: 08h00/09h00 (09h30 during Ramadan) to 14h00.
Museums: sometimes closed on Tuesdays and open on Fridays. Public Holidays The official work-week is Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend when government offices,
banks and most offices are closed. Most businesses and banks have a half-day on Thursday, and banks and government offices take Friday, Saturday and all public holidays off.
Fixed Public Holidays
1 January
30 January
1 May 25 May 9 June 10 June
14 November 25 December
New Year's Day King Abdullah's birthday
Labour Day
Independence Day
King Abdullah's ascension to the throne
Anniversary of the Great Arab Revolt
King Hussein Remembrance Day
Christmas Day
Lunar Public Holidays
Muslim holidays follow the lunar calendar and change each year. First day of Muharram Al-Mawlid an-Nabawi Eid al-Isra Wal Mi'raj Eid al-Fitr Eid al-Adha
Islamic New Year Prophet's birthday
Ascension of the Prophet Mohammed
3- or 4-day feast marking the end of Ramadan
4-day feast at the end of Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca and the sacrificing of the lamb
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
MOVING TO JORDAN
Health Clearance Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, in addition to routine immunizations including Polio, are recommended. A Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from infected areas.
Most medications are available in Jordan, but if you are taking medication for a chronic condition, it is a good idea to
check before arrival if it is available in Jordan in case it is necessary to bring a supply from your home country.
Passport Be sure to make a color copy of your passport and that of each family member travelling to Jordan with you, so you will have a copy while your residency documents are being processed.
Visas Visas for foreigners/tourists are issued for 20JD upon arrival at major ports of entry according to regulations based on reciprocity with the country of your nationality. Such visas are valid for one month, but can be extended for an additional two months at any police station. Note that Jordan does NOT issue entry visas to foreigners arriving via Allenby Bridge (King Hussein Bridge). Foreigners attempting to enter Jordan via Allenby without a valid visa are usually refused entry and lose significant time and money to travel to an alternative entry point. Visas that are issued in advance by Jordanian diplomatic and consular missions may require a recent colored photo along with your passport (minimum validity of six months) and fees. Residence Permit The employing agency will advise and make the necessary arrangements for you and your family. It is important to sort
this out as soon as you arrive because everything else is dependent on having a permit (i.e. driver's license, bank ac-
count, etc.). At a minimum, the following is required:
1. UN Laissez Passer or national passport of the staff member
2. Passports with entry visa of family members
3. (2) passport photos per person
Driver's Licenses You should acquire a Jordanian driving license if driving a private car registered in Jordan. The following documents are
required:
1. Residence visa.
2. Residence card from Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). 3. National driving license. 4. Approval of the MOFA to be sent to Ministry of Interior (MOI).
5. A Number given by MOI to refer to Licence Authority
Depending on the origin of your driving license, a Jordanian one will be issued immediately; otherwise a driving test will be conducted.
Shipment of household goods All shipment arriving by sea will arrive at the port of Aqaba. Whether by land or sea, shipping documents, including an
itemized inventory, should be sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in good time. The staff member must also be in Jordan to receive the shipment. This will avoid unnecessary delays at customs. If shipping a car, vehicle documents should also be presented with the shipping documents so that Jordanian registration plates are put on the car at the port. It is advisable to choose a reliable shipping company that has a partner company in Jordan so that your items are delivered to your new home promptly following customs clearance. Pay heed when moving during Ramadan as everything moves at a slower pace.
Moving/Shipping Companies CML 06 585 6956, 06 585 7957 Salam Logistics 06 500 4000, 06 577 7901 UMD 06 562 0447, 079 611 4445 13
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
SECURITY
General Situation Jordan remains as one of the stable countries in the Middle East due to the well trained, equipped and alert security apparatus in the Kingdom. However, incidents in the past have clearly highlighted that this position is easily shifted. While there is no past history of direct threats made against the United Nations operations in Jordan, terrorist groups in the region with varying degrees of credibility and capability have issued threatening communiqués against the organization.
During the last two years, the State Security Court has convicted several perpetrators in the Kingdom on terrorism
charges for planning/plotting attacks in Jordan. While so far the UN has not been directly targeted, the risk of collateral damage is considered medium as there is a high concentration of UN staff and premises in the country. There is a visible increase in theft, vandalism and street crimes in Jordan which implies risk for staff members. Demonstrations, sit-ins and protests remain a major concern for Jordan as political, military or economic issues in the region may spill into the Kingdom. Drug trafficking remains a major concern.
New Arrivals Briefing For UN staff and dependents a mandatory 'New Arrivals' security briefing is held every Monday at 1000H at UNDSS Jordan offices. Staff members are advised to attend the briefing. Security Incident Reporting. Nearly all embassies, agencies, and NGOs offer a security briefing for newly arrived staff, It is important for you to attend. Incident Reporting All UN staff is required to report all security related incidents to the UN DSS Office immediately after the incident occurs: A standardized incident reporting template exists in Jordan and should be utilized when reporting incidents, please ask your agency Security Focal Point for a sample. It wise for all expatriates to report any incident to their appropriate chain of concern. UN Chief Security Adviser Office Office Telephone: +962-6 5338167 Local Emergency Contact Numbers
Emergency Hotline (Amman only)
Police
Fire Brigade
Ambulance Services
Highway Patrols
Public Security Directorate
Electricity Emergency
Telephone Directory Services
Queen Alia International airport
Royal Jordanian Flight Information
911
191
199
199
4128131 or 194
196
475 0981/479 0000
1212
445 3200
445 3200
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
PERSONAL SECURITY
General Personal Safety and Security Guidelines Keep yourself informed of the general security situation Stay abreast of local news events with the local media and do not hesitate to contact your sponsoring security office for further security guidance and advice. Take responsibility for your own safety and security. Raise personal security awareness when visiting
hotels, shopping or entertainment areas, in particular well known tourist spots and other establishment frequented by foreigners. Be especially suspicious of unattended bags and parcels! If you spot an unattended bag or parcel, do notify security authorities and move away from the area immediately. Do not examine or remove the article yourself. Do carry your identification and emergency contact numbers at all times. Shopping Malls and Restaurants. Spend minimal time near the front entrance or at the main vehicle drop-off point; if possible, use alternate entrances to the mall. Do not patronize restaurants that are close to the front entrance or have large windows facing the street. Use the home delivery option when available. International Airports. When arriving, or departing, proceed directly to the airline counters and through
immigration. Do not loiter in the public areas at the airport. As equipment such as VHF/UHF radios and GPS's are
restricted in Jordan, ensure that you are in possession of required documentation; failure to present such papers
might result in confiscation, In case your belongings for some reason is confiscated; request a receipt to be provided. Hotels. Always request a room on a wing of your hotel that does not face a street nor is directly above the lobby.
Always request to be allocated a room between 2-5th floor in order to facilitate a quick egress. Avoid high
concentrations of staff when utilizing hotels, as many have similar security arrangements; vary your use. Specific
guidelines on the selection of hotels have been distributed and should be utilized by all agencies in the selection of
staff residences and conference facilities. Do not flaunt your wealth (rings, necklaces, fat wallets etc.), Dress and behave modestly. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Demonstrations have been held at UN offices and elsewhere in Jordan. Staff are advised to avoid downtown locations on Fridays, especially after noon prayers as popular demonstrations frequently occur in the area after the noon prayers. Staff are also advised to avoid demonstrations and gatherings. Follow the internal agency travel clearance procedures available with your Warden. Familiarize yourself with disaster/emergency guidelines issued by the UN DSS office or your sponsoring agency security office. Jordan is vulnerable to earthquakes and prior planning can mitigate many of the life threatening consequences of a natural disaster.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
CUSTOMS AND BEHAVIOUR
Religion
Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The government of Jordan does not interfere with public worship by the country's Christian minority; however, although the majority of Christians are allowed to practice freely, proselytizing or encouraging conversion to the Christian faith are prohibited. In the past, Westerners have been detained or arrested for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in debate about Christianity. It is illegal for a Muslim to convert to Christianity. Special sensitivity and caution should be exercised at religious sites on holy days and the Friday Muslim Sabbath. Modest attire should be worn in deference to local custom. Muslims pray five times a day and you can hear the call to prayer (called Adaan in Arabic), from mosques throughout the country. The first prayer is just before sunrise, at around 4.30/5 o'clock and lasts about three minutes. The next prayer is mid-morning, then mid-afternoon, early evening and finally, late evening at around 7.30/8 o'clock. Non- Muslims should respect the prayer times. You should not express annoyance, especially in the company of Jordanians, at the Adaan, particularly if you are living close to a mosque and you are woken in the morning. This could indicate that you do not respect Islam. You should also not criticize the Hijab for the same reason. Ramadan
During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), visitors should respect Islamic customs, adhere to local laws related to this holy month of fasting, exercise caution, and avoid large crowds. Fasting is from dawn until sunset during which no food or liquids (including water) are consumed. The country tends to slow down and the majority of businesses alter their working hours to shorter days. Working hours for Government offices, for example, are from 09h30 to 14h00 during the month. All restaurants remain closed during the fasting hours, which are from dawn to sunset. Some restaurants may, how- ever, open for take-out during the fasting hours. Only those establishments catering exclusively to tourists are ex- empted from this order. With the exception of hotels, establishments serving alcohol, including bars in restaurants, remain closed throughout Ramadan. Foreigners may be served in their hotel rooms. Alcohol cannot be purchased in shops during the entire month. Eating, drinking (including water), and smoking in public, even in cars or buses, is forbidden by law. Dressing in a manner inconsistent with Islamic norms is also discouraged. Dress should be conservative. Public displays of affec- tion are inappropriate and less tolerated than at other times of the year. Driving between 15h30/16h00 to sunset can be treacherous as people, who have been fasting all day, hurry home to prepare for Ifthar (the breaking of the fast at sunset). You should exercise maximum caution when driving during this time. The Eid al Fitr holiday that ends the holy month of Ramadan is a three to four day event. The days leading up to the holiday are a hectic time of shopping and chaotic traffic. With the exception of supermarkets, all businesses are closed during the three to four day holiday. Funerals A family mourns the death of a loved-one for forty days; however, condolences are given during the first three days. Flowers are not offered. Dress code is black with no make-up. Fifteen minutes is sufficient to pay your respects. Normally women would gather in a different location to the men. For Christians, women would attend the church ceremony, and men would accompany the family to the cemetery. Marriages Flowers and presents should be offered to the newly-weds at the family home. Do not be offended if the present is not opened until after you have left; some people think opening it in front of you would embarrass you. Births Congratulate the parents at the hospital or their home and offer a gift for the newborn. Be aware that some families with strong patriarchal values will openly express their disappointment when a newborn is a girl, making her arrival a rather somber event. More progressive families celebrate the arrivals of daughters and sons equally.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Greeting Devout Muslims do not shake hands with a member of the opposite sex. It is advisable that men do not make the first move to shake hands when greeting devout Muslim women; they should wait for the woman to make the gesture. Communication Non-verbal communication has a powerful effect on relationships and effective service provision. Non-verbal signals acceptable in one culture may be completely unacceptable or even offensive in another. For example, while it may be acceptable elsewhere, 1) beckoning 'come here' with the palm upwards or pointing to a person or object with your index finger is very rude in Jordan, and 2) when sitting on a chair or cross-legged, one must be careful that the soles of the shoes or feet face the ground and not somebody's face. Body language Devout Muslim women usually do not make direct eye contact with members of the opposite sex. In addition, a woman who clearly does not wish to shake hands with a man will put her hand on her chest. It is important for women and men to have their own space. It is advisable to keep a reasonable distance between men and women when in meetings, interviews, gatherings, and the workplace.
Advice to Teenagers Jordanians make a distinction between 'public' and 'private' behaviour. Jordanian children are raised to know how to behave in public or 'in front of people' because their behaviour reflects directly on their whole family or tribe. It is important to be able to switch between polite formality and the more casual interaction amongst immediate family and close friends. Jordanians look critically on adolescents who act silly, goofy or outlandish in public. They expect young people to be respectable and have dignity. When in doubt about what to do, pretend you are at your grandmother's, or a picky aunt's or at the Minister's house and be on your best behaviour. When this gets on your nerves, have a good safe place to blow steam or hang out and relax, for example your house, your best friend's house, the club, etc. This is not a society that promotes or respects extreme individuality. If you feel you must express yourself through a bizarre hairstyle, extreme or revealing clothing, advanced body piercing and tattoos, or any other distinctive, visible modification, do not be surprised by the unwelcome stares, comments, and maybe even physical response. It is better to blend and find some temporary ways to show your personality, for example at parties, which can be undone later. The farther afield you go from West Amman (such as to East Amman, downtown) and outside Amman (including to tourist sites), the more careful you should be about your dress. Take a second look at the picture or writing on your t- shirt. Cover your navel girls and no low-cut tops. Loose, long and baggy is best. Advice to Adults Jordan is in a period of rapid transition, especially in Amman. Social attitudes and cultural norms are changing as well, but at a lesser speed than the "material culture" of houses, consumer goods and clothing. This is still a patriarchal, family-centred, home-based society, with strong traditional values. Although there is ethnic and religious diversity in Jordan, it exists within an Islamic cultural context. All of this means that Jordanian society is still fairly conservative. Jordanians are generally more formal. Appearances are important; for example, how people dress and how they live are taken as direct indicators of social status. Conservative and formal dress is the norm. For women, covered arms and knees will make you feel more comfortable in public. Jeans are acceptable at casual res- taurants and shopping. You can dress more liberally at pools and sports clubs, tourist locations and private homes, but generally, moderation is key. Even if you dress similar to more "Western" Jordanian women, it will be interpreted differ- ently on you. When visiting a rural area or village, consider wearing loose trousers with a long tunic-like top. Men should not wear shorts when out about town and never go bare-chested unless at a pool. Rules are more relaxed for children, but teenagers should consider the 'time and place' for their most trendy clothes. It is advisable to wear something that covers party clothes if taking a taxi or walking to an event. Everyone should dress up when going to fine restaurants and to people's homes for dinners/occasions. Good grooming is a sign of self-respect and part of honouring your employer, host and guests. Avoid political discussion, especially with taxi drivers, who may tempt you into such a conversation. Bear in mind that the political situation in the Middle East is sensitive and currently un-stable. Jordan is in a period of highly condensed, rapid social change, where traditional and more "modern Western" patterns may co-exist in one person, a family, or a commu- nity. Things can be a little confusing, even for Jordanians. In many cases, the surface suggests that things are more "modern" than people really are. Do not confuse modern dress and certain behaviours with complete value systems. Certain segments of Amman society have adopted certain parts of Western popular culture, but it does not mean they think and live like you. 17
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
MONEY AND BANKING
Banks Foreigners can open accounts at Jordanian banks in either Jordanian Dinars or in foreign currencies. Currency ex- change operates under the guidelines and regulations of the Central Bank of Jordan. The Central Bank also sets the minimum and maximum interest rates for financial institutions to follow. Banking Hours Sat-Thurs 0830-1500. Hours during Ramadan are 0830-1000, although some banks may open in the afternoon. Currency The Jordanian Dinar (JD) = 100 piastres or 1,000 fils. Notes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 dinars; coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 piastres (or ¼ and ½ dinar). Pay careful attention; prices are often written with 3 numbers to the right of the decimal point. Normally cashiers round to the nearest piaster (2nd decimal place). Currency Exchange Foreign currencies can be exchanged easily in banks and bureaux de change. Most hotels also provide exchange facili- ties. The US Dollar is fixed at $0.708 = JD1.00. The daily exchange rates for other currencies are published in the local newspapers. Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs Most major credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. ATMs can be found throughout Amman and in many large towns.
1 JD 5 JD 10 JD
20JD 50 JD
500 fils 250 fils 100 fils 50 fils 10 fils
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION
Hotels There is a wide variety of hotel accommodation in Amman. Below is a list of those hotels that are often preferred by expatriates:
Le Royal Amman
Hotel Intercontinental
Grand Hayatt Amman
Four Seasons
Sheraton
Le Meridien
Landmark Hotel
Hotel Kempinski By the Lemon Tree
TRANSPORTATION
Car Rental
Zahran Street, 3rd Circle
Zahran Street, 3rd Circle
3rd Circle, Jabel Amman
Zahran Street, 5th Circle
Zahran Street, 5th Circle
Shmeisani
Shmeisani
Shmeisani Jabal al Webdeih
Tel. 06 460 3000
Tel. 06 464 1361
Tel. 06 465 1234
Tel. 06 550 5556
Tel. 06 593 4111
Tel. 06 569 6511
Tel. 06 560 7100
Tel. 06 520 0200 Tel. 0777 955 559
Car rental in Jordan is fairly expensive in comparison to Europe and the United States, but there are plenty of choices available. All the main international car rental companies operate in Amman and other major tourist points and towns. Rental cars have green number plates with yellow writing, whereas Jordanian private cars have white number plates. You can also hire a car plus driver from most rental companies. Car rental can also be arranged through travel agents and hotels.
Eurodollar 06 569 3399
Europcar 06 550 4031
Hertz 06 553 8958
Layan Rent a Car 06 562 0659
Payless Car Rental 06 552 5180
Thrifty 079 507 4444 Taxis There are conventional buses and fixed-route 'servis' (shared-taxis, most seating up to seven) in Amman and other main cities. Vehicles often fill up at central or outer terminal points and then run non-stop.
The Beige taxis operate at the airport only. The Yellow taxi is the most commonly used. They are cheap, easy to find and most often English-
speaking. Al Moumayaz Private (Silver) Taxi Service Tel. 06 5799999 or 080022808
Rail The Hejaz Railway (www.jhr.gov.jo) operated on the old Ottoman track between Medina (Saudi Arabia) and Damascus (Syrian Arab Republic). The railway has not operated in a number of years, although there are plans to re-open it. If it does become operational again, it would be worth making the journey for the experience. Se a The only port is Aqaba Tel. 03 2014031; website: www.aqabaports.com.jo), which is on some cruise itineraries. There is a daily car and passenger ferry between Aqaba and Nuweiba in Egypt. One may also rent a boat to visit Pharoah's Island in Egypt.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Driving in Jordan
Be vigilant when driving in Jordan. Stop signs and priorities are not respected and roundabouts are common and dangerous. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from December to March, when roads can be slippery. So take care when breaking. Poor lighting and road conditions prevail, so extra caution must be exercised at all times, especially when driving at night. Highways are more crowded around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits. City driving in Amman is also more hazardous in the summer months when Jordan experiences an influx of tourists and visitors from other countries in the region. Speed limits are 60kph (38mph) in cities, 80kph (50mph) on country roads and 110kph (70mph) on motorways. There are frequent speed and document controls along the highways. The minimum driving age is 18 years and it is manda- tory for all car passengers to wear seat belts. Using a mobile phone while driving is forbidden, though you get the im- pression that the car won't go unless a mobile phone is stuck to the ear! Road signs are in Arabic and often English as well. In the case of an accident:
Do not move your car Do not enter into negotiation with the other driver(s) Call the police on 191 and wait their arrival
The police will issue an accident report that you should present to your insurance.
Car plate types:
White: Local Jordanian
Yellow: Tax free and diplomatic
Red: Government
Green: Hired vehicles
Purchasing a Vehicle One may purchase a duty free vehicle from other expatriates who are departing Jordan. Alternatively, one may ven- ture to the duty-free zone in Zarka where a number of vehicles are sold. For the camper and intrepid naturalist, four- wheel drive is recommended. There are many mechanics and garages in Amman (with a high concentration in Wadi Seer) and most parts are available. Vehicle Insurance One must carry personal liability insurance purchased in Jordan. Comprehensive coverage is also recommended. In addition to proof of insurance, one must carry a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher in the vehicle. Separate insur- ance must be purchased when travelling by car to Syria, Israel, and beyond. Air Travel Queen Alia International (AMM) is 35km (22 miles) southeast of the capital (about 40 minutes driving-time). There is a regular bus service to Amman (journey time - 50 minutes), and taxis are also available. Facilities: Duty-free shops, ATMs, bank/bureau de change, eating and shopping facilities and car hire. Aqaba Airport is the other international airport. Amman Civil airport in Marka is about 8 kilometres east of the city centre. It mainly serves as a regional airport servic- ing domestic and regional routes. It is home to airlines such as Royal Wings, Jordan Aviation and Arab Wings. The UN uses the airport for flights to Iraq.
The national airline is Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ). For more information, visit www.rja.com.jo. At 7th circle, Royal Jordanian offers a city check-in, where RJ flyers can check-in up to 24 hours in advance with baggage.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
AMMAN NEIGHBORHOODS The capital city of Amman has approximately 2.8 million inhabitants and occupies about 1,680 km2. Originally, the city was built on seven hills, but now it stretches over nineteen jebals (“hill” or “mountain” in Arabic) and wadis (valleys). As such, the city elevation is between 777-1,400 metres above sea level and the city remains a group of neighbourhoods. Many of Amman's districts derive their names from the name of the mountain on which they are built. East Amman is older and more traditional while West Amman is more modern, cosmopolitan, and where most expats live.
Abdoun
South Amman
Wealthier residential neighborhood
Abdoun Circle is a center of nightlife with cafes, restaurants, lounges, and quick eateries
Hosts Taj Mall, several gyms, and more
Jabal Amman
West Amman
An older but vibrant and beautiful neighborhood with a little old world charm
Rainbow Street is a center of nightlife with many popular hangouts, cafes, galleries, lounges, and restaurants
Hosts outdoor events, concerts, other cultural activities, and Souk Jara
Jabal Al Weibdeh
West Amman
A charming older neighborhood with a contemporary art scene.
Hosts some of Amman's best art museums and galleries as well as some fine cafes
Al Balad (Downtown)
A small bustling old city of narrow streets and hills
Hosts ruins (Roman Amphitheatre and Nympheum), the souk, and the famous Hashem's restaurant
There are a few cheap hostels in the Balad, but expats do not normally live there.
Sweifieh
West Amman
Trendy, busy residential and shopping area
Hosts Wakalat pedestrian shopping zone with some upscale shops and Baraka Mall
Galleria Mall/Carrefour will be opening soon among the myriad of shops, cafes, services, and pubs
Shmeisani
Nice West Amman neighborhood
Hosts some hotels, businesses, shops, gyms, and restaurants
Jubeiha
More affordable, hilly, West Amman
Hosts Jordan University, King Hussein Cancer Hospital, shops, and inexpensive eateries
Dabbouq, Rabia, Um Summaq, Um Utheinah, Dier Ghbar
Other nicer West Amman residential areas
Wadi Seer, Marj al Hammam, Dahiyat al Rasheed, Medina Riyadhiya, Tla el Ali, Gardens, Khalda
More affordable neighborhoods in greater Amman
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
HOUSING
Most expats in Jordan live in West Amman, which is the "newer" part of the city. West Amman is anything west of 3rd Circle. Neighbourhoods in West Amman range from middle class to upper class to super rich. Many people in West Amman speak English and/or French. By contrast, the neighbourhoods in East Amman are older and more crowded, and it could be difficult for a foreigner who does not speak Arabic to get along there. For longer stays it is possible to find furnished or unfurnished apartments and houses from around JD 800 to JD 2,000 per month. It is not uncommon to be asked to pay rent one year in advance. Among the most affordable areas of West Amman are the area around the University of Jordan (Jubeiha), Madinah Riyadhiya (Sports City), Dahiyat al Rasheed, 'Abdali, Wadi Seer (at the far west edge of the city), Marj al Hammam (at the far southwest edge of the city), and 3rd Circle (Dewar Thalath). A furnished 3-bedroomed apartment in University and Sports City areas can cost you about 400 JD to 800 JD per month.
More affluent areas of West Amman are Rab'ia, Umm Summaq, Umm Utheinah, Tla el 'Ali, 7th Circle (Dewar Saba'), 8th
Circle (Dewar Thaamin), Bethyader, Deir Ghabar, Khalda, Sweifieh, Gardens (Wasfi Al Tal Street), Shmeisani, and 'Abdoun, with Shmeisani, 7 and 8th Circles, and Beyader being the most affordable of these. Rent for a 3-bedroomed furnished apartment can cost you anywhere from 800 JD to 1500 JD a month. Another area to consider is the suburb of Sweileh. It lies adjacent to the University area, and is fairly convenient to most of West Amman. Sweileh has a large shopping district, and is a transportation hub for buses and taxis servicing Amman and other parts of Jordan. You can find accommodation through a variety of resources. The Jordan Times (the daily English language) paper advertises agencies that specialize in finding flats for foreigners. If you read Arabic or have an Arabic speaking friend, the two free weekly papers, al Waseet and al Mumtaz feature a large number of ads for furnished and unfurnished apartments and houses all over West Amman and Sweileh. You will also find ads in the regular daily newspapers, such as al Rai and al Dustour. Real Estate Agencies:
Abu Judom Tel. 06 5660701 Byblos Tel. 06 5652400
Al-Amal Tel. 06 5517309 Haidar Shaban Tel. 079 5595656
Al-Fairoz Tel. 06 5688775 Mashura Tel. 06 5821549
Alkhadrh Tel. 06 5510400 Nahhas Tel. 06 5865336
Amra Tel. 06 5514456 Pia Tel. 077 7438880
Al Naser Housing Tel. 06 5538182 Reem Tel. 079 6600066
Al-Sanabel Tel. 06 5864230 Senator Tel. 06 5859981
Alternative Tel. 06 5921793 Zalloum Real Estate Tel. 06 5850440
BR Home Real Estate Tel. 06 5933610 Zeina Tel. 06 5696955
Lease Agreements A Contract or Lease especially designed for UN staff and diplomats in Jordan is more favourable to tenants than the standard Jordanian lease format and can be obtained from the respective UN agency. Landlords normally demand six months or one year's rent in advance and usually require a minimum one-year lease agreement. UN agencies can arrange a salary advance to cover a full year's rent. A rental subsidy may also be available. Jordanian law states that rental contracts are automatically renewable each year for an indefinite period. Rents cannot be raised except when mutually agreed upon by both the tenant and the landlord. Whether you have relatives or friends in Jordan, it is better to see the apartment or house first before signing a lease or agreeing to rent. People may wish to save you the hassle of trying to look for accommodation, but the reality is that only you know what you can and cannot put up with!
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
UTILITIES AND OTHER IMPORTANT HOUSING CRITERIA
Be sure to consider the following when selecting your housing:
Security UN staff members are required to contact their respective UN agency security focal point to visit and advise on the safety and security of the neighbourhood and the property intended for rent. Water Jordan is one of the most water scarce countries in the world. It is not uncommon for water to be rationed during the summer months. Efforts are being made to improve the water system in Amman and avoid unnecessary waste from, for example, leaking pipes. Water is billed monthly. Also, the Ministry of Water and Irrigation has developed and is implementing programmes to encourage more efficient water use. While the tap water is potable, it is advisable to use a purifier or purchase bottled water for drinking. Some kitchen sinks in apartments and houses are equipped with an extra tap that filters the water. Be sure the residence has its own water line and storage. Water Storage: Amman city is fed water once or twice a week (West Amman tends to receive water twice weekly). Therefore ensure adequate water storage, i.e. two water tanks instead of one and a working water pump.
Water Service: Some families elect to buy or rent water fountains with 18 liter replaceable water bottles. There are
several vendors offering this home delivery service: Ghadeer/Nestle, Al Sabeel, and Al-Furat.
Electricity Jordan's electricity supply is 220 volts/50 cycles AC. Sockets are generally of the two-pronged European variety, while a variety of other sockets and plugs—especially the 13 amp square three-pinned plug—are in use. North American equipment requires both an adaptor and a transformer. Most varieties of adaptors and transformers are readily available in electrical shops throughout Jordan. Electricity supply in Jordan is reliable and uninterrupted. Bills are normally payable on a monthly basis. Be sure the residence has its own electricity meter and that the electrical system is grounded for safety.
Gas Many homes have gas stoves and ovens which run off butane gas tanks. It's a good idea to keep a second tank on hand, because one is bound to run out of gas just when you have dinner in the oven for guests. Truck playing a repetitive tune drive through neighbourhoods daily selling butane tanks. Heating and Cooling New apartments and houses normally have central heating, many of which are heated by oil-fired boilers. During the cold months, oil consumption may increase dramatically to meet hot water and heating needs. Therefore one should monitor the diesel supply for the residence. Be sure the residence has a separate diesel tank.
- Fuel supply Service- Abu Ala'a Mobile: 079.555.71.54 If there is no central heat, you may need to buy safe, portable gas or electric heaters. Air-conditioning is also an advantage though Amman's altitude keeps temperatures bearable.
Double-glazed windows are an advantage for noise reduction and temperature control.
Waste and Sewage
Septic tanks should be emptied before a new tenant moves in. Inquire if the plumbing system can tolerate flushing
toilet paper. Where is garbage collected?
Equipment Understand whether any furniture or electrical equipment may be provided. Costs vary depending on whether a dish- washer, stove, washing machine, dryer, refrigerator or wardrobes are included.
Repairs Repairs should be made before you move in. The rental contract should clearly indicate that the landlord would cover repairs of fixed equipment, including the removal of mold and mildew, which tend to accumulate on bathroom ceilings, bedroom walls, or in basements; it should also indicate how quickly the landlord will make any future repairs.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA
Telecommunications Installation of a new phone line may take 10 days to a few months, so it is advisable to rent a property that is already
serviced with an international line compatible with a touch-tone phone, especially if you are considering installing
internet. Fixed telephone lines are provided by Jordan Telecom (run by Orange) situated between the 1st and 2
circles. Jordan Telecom Group offers yellow pages on-line at www.yellowpages.com.jo.
The Jordan prefix is 962. Area codes are as follows:
Amman 06 Karak 03 Ramtha 02 Ajloun 02 Ma'an 03 Salt 05
Aqaba 03 Mafraq 02 Sweileh 06
Irbid 02 Madaba 05 Zarqa 05
Jerash 02 Petra 03
Mobile Phone Operators ZAIN (Mobile Telecommunications Company KSC) www.jo.zain.com, 582-3111 Orange/MobileCom (GSM) www.orange.jo/en/index.php, 585-7777 Xpress (iDen) Telecommunication Company LTD. www.xpress.jo, 550-6666
Umniah (GSM) Mobile Company www.umniah.jo/umniah/main.aspx, 500-5000
Internet Providers
Orange (land line) www.orange.jo Zain (dongle) http://www.jo.zain.com Kulacom www.kulacom.jo
Radio Jordan offers radio services in Arabic, English and French, which include:
88.3 - Radio Orient|r.[R-Paris] - Amman 89.1 - BBC Arabic Service|sat feed - Ajloun news/info English/Arabic 89.5 - Amen FM - Amman (police/traffic radio) 90.0 - Radio Jordan Arabic Service - Amman, classical music 91.5 - Ayyam FM - Amman Arabic 92.0 - Mood FM - Amman English, western oldies music 92.4 - Radio Al-Balad - Amman/Zarqa 93.7 - Virgin Radio Jordan 94.1 - Spin FM - Amman English 94.9 - Jordan University Radio 95.3 - Mazaj FM - Amman Arabic music 96.3 - Radio Jordan English service, pop music 97.4 - Monte Carlo Doualiya|sat feed - Amman news/info French 97.7 - Energy 97.7 - Amman English 98.1 - Radio Sawa - contemporary music 99.0 - Radio Amman FM (Jordan R.) - Amman 102.5 - Beat FM - Amman English, latest pop music hits 103.1 - BBC Arabic Service|sat feed - Amman news/info English/Arabic 104.2 - Radio Fann - Amman 104.7 - Hayat FM - Amman religious-Islamic 105.1 - Sunny FM - Amman English
Internet Radio Streaming: www.radiotuna.com, www.grooveshark.com
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Post It takes approximately ten days for post to reach Europe, and about two weeks for a package. The post-office does not accept 'recycled' envelopes (i.e. with tape to reinforce the seal). Incoming post takes much longer and is sent to a post office rather than a street address.
Central Post Office is on King Faisal Street, about 300 metres from the Al-Husseini mosque. All parcels are
received here and opened in front of you for verification of contents. Avoid sending precious or expensive items.
Post-office outlets are dotted around Amman. Opening hours from 08h00 to 18h00 except Fridays.
Express Courier Services DHL - Tel. 06 5858451/5858514 ARAMEX - Tel. 06 5358855
Newspapers
Jordan Times (English daily on-line and in print)
International Herald Tribune (English daily, printed in Lebanon)
Other languages and international English newspapers can be purchased at hotels and large newsstands with a one or two-day delay
Arabic dailies: Al Rai, Ad Dustour, Al Arab Al Yawm, and Al Ghad
Libraries
Shoman Public Library, Zahran St between 2nd and 1st circles, Tel. 06 4633372
American Center for Oriental Research, off Queen Rania St
Jordan University Library, Open daily 8AM-22:00, Tel. 06 5355000
British Council, Rainbow St, Open Sunday-Thursday 9AM-18:30, Tel, 06 4603420
Television Multi-system or PAL system televisions are necessary in Jordan. Satellite packages are available though the following vendors:
Orbit - Tel. 06 5511615
Showtile - Tel. 06 5922515
SERVICES
Auto Mechanic
Abo Abdullah al Moghrabi Garage—Wadi Seer—Tel. 06 585 4443
Emad Abu Al Roz Garage—Marka Shamlyiah—Tel. 079 690 4740
Saleh Hjaazin Center—Wadi Seer—Tel. 078 571 0222
Car Wash
Geo Wash—400 0420, www.geowash-jo.com
Ziebart—06 582 5533, 079 543 2800
Cobbler/Shoe-mender
City Mall: Level -1
Kulliyat Al Sharee'ah Street - Jabel Weibdeh
Dry Cleaner
Anky Steam: Mango St, Jabel Amman - 06 4621140, Sweifieh, byJordan Kuwait Bank - 06 5851533
Qais Center for Quick Services, Mecca St, 06 5828163
Electrician
Al Adham Store: Tel. 06 5817071, Mob. 077 1856020
Raed: Mob. 079 6880265
Key Copying
Inside C-Town (7th Circle) or Spinneys (Taj Mall)
Dawazeh/Mr.Fix It in Sweifieh
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Recycling
Entity Green: collection point in main Cozmo car park at the back of the complex - no glass bottles
Wild Jordan Café: collection bins in reception - takes small quantities including glass bottles
Repairs Mr Fix It: Sweifieh, Mahmoud Al Mousa Ubayadat Street, opposite the local bakery Sufara Tailor Mazen Al Zaen, Abdoun Circle, Tel: 06 5933379/079 5714191 Miral Tailor Shop, Sweifieh, Tel: 06 5828233/077 7999907
HAIR AND NAIL SALONS
Hair service has a wide range of pricing in Amman—from 5 JD to over 100JD—depending on the service rendered and salon expertise. Typical prices comprise: manicure/pedicure - JD16; eyebrows - JD4; bikini wax (line) - JD3; full leg wax JD8; half-leg wax JD5. Sugar-wax is the same price. Tips should be 1 or 2 JD.
Anis Beauty Centre Um Uthainah, 27 Al Furat Street Behind Zad El Kheir restaurant Tel. 06 5535718 Dazzle 5th Circle, Al Ameerah Basma Street Tel. 06 5927277/7574 Essentials Ladies Beauty Spa Abdoun Circle Tel. 06 5935555 Guinot Um Uthainah Tel. 06 5526240 Glow Training Al Fouad Complex (behind Abdoun Mall) Tel. 06 5526240 Jolies Femmes Abdoun, 69 Saed Zaghloul Street Tel. 06 5935518 Jubran Jubran
Salon de Paris - Fadi Sfeir Sweifieh, Paris Street Hussein Complex, 1st floor Tel. 06 5817886 Mob. 077 7694684 Scholl Al Malekah Zein Al Sharaf Street Above Baguette Ask for Alena - facial expert Tel. 06 5939100 Spa Amber Bin Ghazi Street, near Abdoun Circle www.spaamber.com Tel. 06 593 5518 Tareq Salon www.tareq-m.com Branch 1: Dabouk Mall Jam'ah Al Shabibi Street Tel. 06 5413131/1011 Mob. 079 5500552 Branch 2: Nakawa Center Al Malekah Zein Al Sharaf Street
Sweifieh, Paris streest t Hussein Complex, 1 floor Tel. 06 5818845 Kinda Center Abdoun www.kindacenter.com Murad Salon for Ladies Abdoun Circle Tel. 06 5932252 Sa Scène Abdoun, Forum 1 Complex Sa'ad Abdoh Shammout Street (above Le Nôtre, Abdoun Mall) Tel. 06 5933435/6
Tel. 06 5923232 Mob. 079 5705557 [email protected] T oni & Guy Abdoun, Al Fouad Complex Sa'ad Abdoh Shammout Street Tel. 06 5922999/5927774 And 3rd Circle, Grand Hayatt hotel Tel. 06 4622465/4622463
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
HAMMAN AND SPA 1 Circle, Al Mahmoud Taha Street Ast Pasha Turkish Baths l Oldest baths in Amman Tel. 06 4633002 Alf Layla Wal Layla Turkish Bath Al No'mani Building No. 191 Al Madina Al Munawarah Street Amman, Jordan Tel: 06 5518868 Armonia Spa Um Uthainah Tel. 06 5547063
ALCOHOL
Elixir Sweifieh, Rodeo Plaza (between Pizza Hut and BMW) Tel. 06 5855723 Menna - Spa & Wellness Um Uthainah Tel. 06 5481170 Tan & Tone Queen Zain Al Sharaf Street Tel. 06 5920050 **Dead Sea and Ma'in Hot Spring Hotels
Alcohol is served in many restaurants, except during Ramadan. You can buy alcohol in designated shops that are dotted around Amman. They are small and marked with an alcoholic brand (such as Amstel, Heineken) or are simp- ly called 'liquor store' or 'wine shop'. Cozmo hosts an off-licence shop called 'Vino', which is also located on Abdoun Circle. Spinneys in Taj Mall also has sells off-licence, which is located in the freezer section of the supermarket, just after the pork counter. Remember, you can also purchase alcohol at the duty-free shop of Amman located on Tunis Street in Shmeisani within 14 days of an international arrival. Bring your passport as proof of date of entry. You can purchase local wine at 'The Winemaker' on Arar Street (Wadi Saqra), just before Zara Center as you head downtown. Omar Zumot is the owner and loves nothing better than to explain his wines and let you taste them. Phone number 06 4614125, http://zumot-wines.com/ourPassion.php.
Yousef M. Haddad is another recommended wine merchant located on the top-end of Arar Street (about 800 metres
down from the Istiklal clinic traffic lights) in the Haddad centre. Person to contact is Mario Appiani on 06 5658500 or email [email protected] who will be more than delighted to talk you through the large selection of wines on
offer. More information found at www.yhaddco.com. All these places are closed during Ramadan.
CATERERS Hindi
My Chef at Home Samaweer
WOX The Passionate Chef Kabab-Ji
Indian
International cuisine Caucasian
Chinese
Tel. 06 5827440
Tel. 06 5622215, www.mychefathome.com Tel. 06 5814818 Um Utheineh, 6 Kareem Al Zyoud Street
Tel. 06 5827440 Tel: 079 705 7905 Tel. 06 551 3308
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
SUPERMARKETS Carrefour Large hypermarket. Cheaper than most and stocks French products, as well as
a lot of non-food items and electrics. Located in City Mall and Sweifieh.
Cozmo
C-Town Food City
Happy Family
Miles
Plaza
Safeway Spinneys
Metro
Fouad
Haboob
Nice sized supermarket with best selection of European cheeses. Sells pork at cold meat counter. Can be expensive on imported items. Located in Sweifieh near 7th Circle, Abdoun, Dabouq, and Tlaa' Ali.
Cheap on local produce and household basics. Many branches throughout Amman.
Same as C-Town
Where the locals buy their meat - excellent selection. Cheap on local produce and household basics. Just off 7th Circle towards Mecca St. on Shuhad'a Al Haram Al Ibrahim Street.
Good choice of imported items. Excellent meat and cheese counter. Situated in Mecca Mall's ground floor.
Small and compact. Lots of imported items. Excellent bakery section and sells pork. Located in Shmeisani, Queen Noor Street.
Excellent selection of fruit and vegetables. Wide selection of imported items, especially USA brands. 2 shops in Amman:
Shmeisani - corner of Ash Sharif Nasir Bin Jamil and Ash Sharif Abd Al Hamid Sharaf Streets
7th Circle direction airport road, first right at Audi.
Premiering in Jordan in Taj Mall, Abdoun. Large selection of fruit and vegeta- bles and imported items. Khalda
Supermarket and alcohol, Yaqoub Mu Ammar St, Sweifieh
Supermarket and meat importer, Zahran between 2nd and 1st circles
Large department and retail operations broadly accept the tax exemption cards. Korean Gardens Zaza Building, near 7th Circle, Sweifieh, 06 581 6444 Select Foods near 7th Cirlce, behind Safeway; carries imported food items
Don't forget to check out your neighbourhood market. Chances are, it carries more products than you might expect.
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
SPECIALTY FOOD SHOPS
Breads and Pastries
German Bakery: Baraka Mall; German style grain breads
Sufara: Mahmoud Al Mousa Ubayadat St, Sweifieh; local bakery
Bread Talk: Queen Zein al Sharaf St, Abdoun; breads
The Mill: Zahran between 6th and 5th circles; breads
Blue Fig: Abdoun; breads
Chez Hilda: Sweifieh; cakes
Babiche: Abdoun; cakes
La Mirabelle: pastries, cakes
Crumz: Abdoun and Dabouq; breads and pastries
Fayruz: Paris Circle, Jebal al Webdieh Fish
Carrefour: City Mall
Cozmo
Ocean: Will prepare and cook the fish for a few fils extra per kilo and have it ready for collection at an hour agreed to by you.
Shmeisani, Suleiman Al Nabulsi Street
Al Madeena Street (on the right coming from Mecca Street just after KFC)
7th Circle, Abdullah Ghosheh Street (just before Geneva Hotel)
Miles: Mecca Mall
Spinneys: Taj Mall
Meat The Meat Master: Gourmet meat store in Sweifieh, 33 Na'eb Imran al Ma'Aytah St, near Rawan Cake shop, Tel. 06 5821116, [email protected], www.themeatmaster.co
Pork
Cozmo: supermarket - 7th Circle
Plaza: supermarket - 4th Circle
The Pork Shop: Assad Burqan (owner), Jaber Complex opposite Grand Market supermarket between Mecca Street and Abdullah Ghosheh Street, Tel. 06 5856698
Spinneys: supermarket in Taj Mall - Abdoun
Produce
Your local green grocer. Be sure to visit the small green grocer near your home. Often they have the freshest fruits and vegetables.
Wadi Seer Market: There is an excellent fruit and vegetable market in Wadi Seer, at the roundabout intersecting Al Sina'ah and Rasheed Byouk Streets (close to UNRWA) that sells local produce at low prices.
Nour al Baraka Park: This cooperative garden project which is an independent extension of the Al Hussein Society
is open Tuesday afternoons and on Saturdays during the warm months. Organic vegetables grown on the
premises are available for purchase. Supplies are limited, so arrive early.
Roastery: Nuts and Spices
Captain Company: (wooden façade) large choice on 2 floors - Al Malek Talal Street (down-town)
Kabatilou (:(يك تاب ي Sweifieh, Abdul Raheem Al Haj Mohammed Street ول
Al Rifai --Sweifieh, Cozmo, and City Mall
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
SHOPPING
Amman Mall The oldest mall in Amman. Located at the intersection of Wasfi Al Tal Street and Al Madeenah Street
Al Baraka Newest mall in Amman. Sweifieh, Sa'eed Al Mufti Street Mall
City Mall
Mecca Mall TAJ Mall Zara Center
Many western shops. Located close to Mecca Mall. Go right at the end of Mecca Street in direction of Jerash.
The largest mall in Jordan. On the right towards the end of Mecca Street. Newest mall in Amman with a number of fashion retail, health and beauty brands mak- ing a first appearance in Jordan. Abdoun, end of Sa'ad Abdoh Shammout Street
Very chic. Arar Street near 3rd Circle heading downtown.
Shops and boutiques open from 10h00/10h30 to 20h00 Saturday to Thursday. Some may close for lunch from 13h30 to 15h30. Supermarkets open earlier at 08h00. Shops are generally closed on Friday, though some, including the malls open from 14h00. Shopping malls normally stay open until late hours. Other Shopping Areas
Sweifieh between the 6th and 7th Circles, comprises a maze of streets, including the pedestrian street called Wa- kalat Street, full of a large variety of shops and boutiques (food, clothes, shoes, hairdressers, furniture, etc.). * Istiklal: Subhi Al Omari St, Large stationery shop and party items, including toys * Nour Home: Abdul Raheem Al Haj Mohammed St; Hardware and housewares
30
Abdali For those who love a bargain, there is a flea market every Thursday evening and Friday in Jabel Al Hus-
sein in front of the bus station at Abdali where you can buy fruit, vegetables, clothes, furniture, etc. Al Balad Downtown, around Quraysh and Al Malek Talal Streets, you will find a labyrinth of streets hosting shops and boutiques selling all sorts of things. The souk is organized by item, i.e. DVD, shoes, jewellery, material, clothes, etc. There is a very good fruit and vegetable market just behind the Al Husseini mosque.
Souq Jara Every Friday from May to October 10AM-10PM there is a craft and food market off Rainbow Street in Jabal Amman. Sometimes there is music as well. During the spring, there is also an organic famer's market at Wild Jordan, which is down the stairs from the Souq Jara. Tel: 06 4634760 www.jara-jordan.com Souq al Ard Saturdays at Bayt al Bawadi in Abdoun there is a small food an craft market offering products from women's cooperatives of the Jordan Hashemite Fund for Human Development. Operates May to October. Tel: 06 5925841.
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
SPECIALTY SHOPS
Electronics
SmartBuy: Taj Mall and Cozmo, Tel: 06 5809999
Frames
Fadi Hodroj: Shari's College Street - Jabel Al Weibdeh - Tel. 06 4648241
Miriam Gallery: Umm Summaq
Top Art: Sweifieh, behind Alleewan hotel - Tel. 06 5857759
Furniture
Home Centre: Mecca Mall, 1st floor
Wadi Saqra: Several shops on Arar Street heading downtown
Hardware and Haberdashery
ACE: Mecca Mall, 3rd floor, Tel: 06 554 1919 , 06 582 2224
Lots of shops downtown opposite Al Husseini mosque
Bashiti, Jerash Rd in Khalda—Tel: 06 5350009 and Park Plaza, Sweifieh- 06 585 2604
Alleyway shops in Sweifieh
Leaders, 147 King Abdullah II St, Khalda, Tel. 06 553 3332
Mawadco, Mecca St, Tel. 06 552 3250
Housewares
Nour Home, Sweifieh, Tel: 06 5827455 Other stores, same street as Nour Home Carrefour, City Mall Home store on Rainbow St
Paint
Dulux, Abdoun, Tel. 06 592 2837 National Paints, Mecca St, Tel 06 581 6190 Sipes, Abdoun, 06 592 4464 See Hardware stores above
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
DOMESTIC HELP As a resident you may choose to hire staff members—full-time or part-time, live-in or live-out—to ease your workload at home. Inquire with friends, colleagues, and acquaintances about their experiences, best practices, and pay scale to gain a sense of the most current domestic help situation in Amman. Below are several things to consider. Hiring Watch for ads and recommendations of others within the expat community. Often the best employees are found by word-of-mouth. Carefully consider your needs and interview a number of candidates. You may wish to hire on a 14-30 day trial basis initially to make sure you can achieve a good working relationship with the employee. Salary Salary is set by agreement between the employer and employee, according to the hours and days worked, the type of tasks required, and competency standards. The average monthly salary for a housekeeper or nanny (among expatriates) is approximately 400-450JD per month (or 350JD if living in the house) for full-time. For part-time the rate is 3- 4JD per hour or 25JD per 8-hour day plus travel expenses. A cook may be paid by the event or may earn 250-350JD per month depending on experience and expertise. A gardener may earn 30-75JD per month depending on the size of the garden and work required. Sometimes gardener and boab duties are combined. A boab usually takes care of the trash, washing the car, carrying groceries or other items, cleans stairwells, checks on the water level, and other mainte- nance tasks for 20-50JD per month depending on the requirements and the number of tenants sharing services. Drivers may be hired full-time or part-time and pay varies according to the requirements and whether s/he is driving your vehicle or his/her vehicle. Be sure to specify duties required of any employee when establishing wages. Clear expectations are best for all involved. It is customary to provide holiday bonus pay (up to 2 weeks pay) for Eid; usually one offers this at the end of Ramadan and perhaps at Christmas, the new year, or Eid al Fitr. Residency and Sponsorship Please be sure to check if your sponsoring office has certain requirements for employees hiring domestic staff; you may be required to have a security and/or health check of any employee. It is important to check whether any individual you hire is in Jordan legally. While Jordan has the most progressive labour laws for both domestic and foreign workers in the Middle East, some human trafficking does exist; if using an employment agency, be sure that the agency is listed by the government and is reputable. As the employee, you may be required to obtain a residency permit for the employee. The fee is approximately 350JD and the permit is valid for one year. Residency permit renewals should be submitted 2 months before the current residency card expires. If the employee has been out of work for awhile, s/he may have over- stayed the visa and have fees to pay. Inquire about this matter up front. As a sponsor, the employee assumes legal responsibility for all medical expenses of an employee. Therefore, it is wise to make a physical exam and chest x-ray a requirement for sponsorship and to purchase health insurance for your employee. While it is rarely enforced, law stipulates that a sponsor may be responsible for an employees' return ticket to his/her home country. Clear communication is essential and a contract that stipulates what the employer will and will not cover protects both the employer and employee. Under no circumstances should you ever hold an employee's documentation (Passport, residency card, or other ID cards). You may retain a copy of documents. You must pay your employee on the agreed date each month according to your contract. If you have a part-time employee, you may pay daily, weekly, or according to your mutual agreement. Daily Operations Effective communication can prevent many issues. Families have different expectations and methods of running the home, so it is important to give very clear instructions from the beginning. With children, it is critical to give specifics about schedule, nutrition, discipline, and any special concerns. Devoting some time to training your employee how you prefer things to be done can help create a positive environment. Be sure to provide the necessary tools for the employee to complete the tasks you require or give money for the employee to purchase the necessary supplies according to his/her preference. Make sure the employee knows where your home phone is located and how to operate it. Review emergency procedures and post a list of phone numbers. Employees are entitled to take all national holidays off; if you wish to require services on a holiday, be sure to compensate with time off and/or bonus pay. Employers must allow time for staff to eat. Discuss with employees whether they prefer to bring their own food of for you to offer meals. Cause for Immediate Dismissal Some people feel very uncomfortable firing employees, but there are some circumstances that require it such as: failure to safeguard children or secure the home; theft and accruing charges to employers phone or other accounts; willful destruction of property; guests without permission; or failure to show up for work without notice. 32
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
EDUCATION
Kindergartens and Crèches There is an abundance of nursery facilities for tiny-tots in Amman. Some commonly used addresses below:
The Little Academy Nursery to KG2 Arabic, English, French Al Iftikhar Street, Deir Ghabar Tel: +962 6 5858282 Fax: +962 6 5827099 [email protected]
Ecokids Nursery to KG2 Arabic, English, and "Fun with French" Hamzah Labadi Street, Um Uthainah Tel: +962 6 5510599 Fax: +962 6 5510221 [email protected]
Primary and Secondary Schools
Hill House Kindergarten Nursery to KG2 Arabic and English 37 Mohammed Ali Bdeir Street, Abdoun Tel: +962 6 593 2110 Mob: +962 79 551 2381 Small World Nursery & Kindergarten Nursery to KG2 Arabic and English 9 Usayd Bin Tha'labah Street, Shmeisani Mob. +962 79 5530360 Nevine, Director
The contact information for the main international schools in Amman is provided below: Amman Baccalaureate School On the road from Dabouq to Fuheis PO Box 441, Suweileh, Amman 11910 Tel. +962 6 5411191 www.abs.edu.jo The American Community School
International School of Choueifat P.O. Box 316, Amman 11810 (Airport road) Tel: +962 6 4291133 Fax: +962 6 4291155 [email protected]
King's Academy
Dahiat Al-Amir Rasthd Street (Between 7th and 8 Circles) Tel: +962 6 5813944 Admin fax: +962 6 5823357 Business office fax: +962 6 5820641 [email protected] International Academy-Amman PO Box 144255, King Hussein Park, Sa'ad Khair St Amman 11814 Tel: +962 6 5502055 [email protected] http://www.iaa.edu.jo International Community School P.O. Box 2002, Amman 11181 (Dead Sea road) Tel: +962 6 4790666 Fax: +962 6 5725416 http://www.ics-amman.edu.jo/
PO Box 9, Madaba-Manja 15188 Tel: +962 6 4300230 [email protected] http://www.kingsacademy.edu.jo Lycée Française d'Amman Al Iftikhar Street, B.P. 830059, 11183 Amman (Deir Ghabar) Tel: +962 6 5826830/46 Fax: +962 6 5822380 www.efa.edu.jo Special Education Al Masar Child Development Services PO Box 3470, Amman 11953 Tel: +962 6 533 8278 [email protected], http://www.almasar.edu.jo
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Arabic Lessons
Qasid Institute Al Madinah Al Riyadiah, Complex Of Al Awa'el Restaurant, Next to Mukhtar Mall, Amman
Tel: 06 5154364 www.qasid.com, www.qasidonline.com
British Council Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman Tel. 06 4624686 Institut Français Off Paris Square, Jabal al Webdieh Tel. 06 4612658 www.ifjordan.com University of Jordan Language Center Queen Rania St, Jubeiheh Tel. 06 5355000 http://ii-tasol.ju.edu.jo,
http://www.ju.edu.jo/lancen/index.html
Berlitz Prince Shaker Bin Zeid St., Bldg.#46, Shmeisani, P.O.Box 942250, Amman 11194, Tel: 06 566 5393/8393, www.berlitz.com
Private Tutors (Check with your sponsoring agency and inquire of friends) Suleiman Jibril 077-7635260 Helen Ayoub 079-5522226 Ekky Rowlson 077-7588819
Language, Culture, and Technology Centers Pioneers Academy Pioneers Complex, Rabieh, Amman Tel: +962 79 9090373, www.pioneers-academy.
IT courses and certificates
New Horizons Wasfi Al Tel, Gardens Shmaisani, Amman Tel: +962 6 5672147, www.newhorizons.com/conten IT courses and certificates
American Language Center Madina Munawara St, Amman Tel: 06 5523901 English British Council 1st Circle, Rainbow Street Jabal Amman Tel: 06 4624686
http://www.britishcouncil.org/jordan.htm English
Societa Dante Al Ighieri Al Sharea College St, Coomplex #27 Jabal Al-Weibdeh, Amman Tel: 06 4640350 http://www.dantejo.org/ Italian
Goethe-Institut Jordanien 5, Abdel Mun'im Al Rifa'i St., Jabal Amman , Tel: +962 6 4641993, [email protected], http://www.goethe.de/ins/jo/amm/deindex.htm, German
Institut Francais Square de Paris, Jebel Al-Weibdeh POBox 9257, Amman 11191 Tél. : + 962 6 4612658 http://www.ifjordan.com/ French, Arabic
Instituto Cervantes 12 Mohammad Hafez Mu'ath Street , near Third Circle Jabal Amman 11180 Tel: 06 4610858 http://amman.cervantes.es
Friends of Archeology and Heritage Um Uthaina, Amman Tel: 06 5547905
https://sites.google.com/site/friendsofarchaeology/home
Latin American Cultural Center off Kaboul St, Building #25, 3rd floor, Rabieh, Amman Tel: 06 5534017 http://latinoamercc.com/
TAG-Confucius Institute Mecca St., Building 19 Um Uthainah, Amman Tel: 06 5100600, [email protected] http://www.tagconfucius.com
Russian Cultural Center 7 Shahed Ismail St., First Circle Amman, Tel: 06 4658343 American Center for Oriental Research PO Box 2470, Amman 11181 Tel: 06 534 6117 [email protected]
www.acorjordan.org
34
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide University Level Studies Most universities in Jordan follow the English-American education systems and are associated with many American and English universities. Jordan University Queen Rania St, Al Jubeiha Amman 11942 Tel: +962 6 5355000 http://www.ju.edu.jo Philadelphia University Jerash Road Amman 19392 Tel: +962 6 4799000 Fax: 0096264799040 [email protected]
Volunteer Opportunities
Petra University P.O.Box 961343, Amman Tel.: +962 6 5799555 Fax: +962 6-5715570 [email protected] www.uop.edu.jo German Jordan University P.O. Box 35247 Amman 11180 Tel: +962 6 4294444 Fax. +962 6 4300215 http://www.gju.edu.jo
Upon first arrival, it may appear difficult to find local projects where one may lend a hand, but after a bit of exploring, you
find that the opportunities abound! These are just a few possibilities:
Al Hussein Society: (06) 581-7598, http://www.ahsrehab.org/
Habitat for Humanity Jordan: (06) 461-2081, http://www.habitatjordan.org
Helping Syrian Refugees in Jordan: facebook.com/HelpingSyrianRefugeesJordan
Home of Peace: (06) 552-4218
Humane Center for Animal Welfare: (06) 412-9077, http://www.hcaw-jordan.org
Jesuit Refugee Services: (06) 461-4190
Jordan Meningitis Foundation: (06) 551-0327, http://www.jmf95.org
Jordan River Foundation: (06) 491-4999, www.jordanriver.jo
Katie's Readers:
Nour al Baraka:
Operation Smile: (06)568-3476, http://jordan.operationsmile.org/
Our Lady of the Mount: (02) 646-1013, www.OLM-Anjara.org
Petra National Trust: (06) 464 1037, http://petranationaltrust.org
Reclaim Childhood: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Reclaim-Childhood/301396818254?fref=ts
Right to Play: http://www.righttoplay.com/international/our-impact/Pages/Countries/Jordan.aspx
Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature: http://www.rscn.org.jo/orgsite/RSCN/GettingInvolved/Volunteer/
tabid/284/Default.aspx
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
CHILDREN
Children's Brunches
Four Seasons Hotel: 5th Circle - fun, games and food - Fridays, 13h00 to 16h30 - Tel. 06 5505555
The Courtyard: Asqar Metropol Hotel, behind Food City in Shmeisani - fun, games and buffet - Fridays, 11h30 to 16h00 - Tel. 06 5620528 Ext. 127
Wild Jordan Café: Ohman Bin Affan Street, 1st Circle - Fridays - Tel. 06 4633542
Dancing
Freeway Dance Studios: Shahrouri Plaza, Wakalat Street, Sweifieh - ballet, jazz, modern - Tel. 06 5827887/5858649, Mob. 077 7833842
Music House: Deir Ghabar - ballet, jazz, salsa, modern, oriental - Tel. 06 5933443, Mob. 077 6311454/ 079 5411172, www.musichouse.jo
One II One: - ballet, Tel. 06 5413139, www.onetoonegym.com
Royal Performing Arts Center: - ballet, Tel. 06 5690291
Tempo Studios: 5th Circle, beside Whispers restaurant - Tel. 06 5938939, www.tempojordan.com
Hairdresser
101 Dalmations: Sweifieh
Cool Cut: Mecca Mall, 3rd floor Kids' Clubs All of these clubs organize birthday parties.
Bambolina: Open 10:00-20:00 Sun-Thu and 15:00-20:00 Fri, Tel. 06 5854410
Cutie Town: Abdoun, Kurdi Complex, Fawzi Al Qawoji Street - Tel. 06 5923952
Fun Factory: Sweifieh, 3 Allawi Street, opposite Hotel Bristol - Tel. 06 5923475
Funtastic: Um Uthaina --Tel. 06 5540850
Funtown: Sweifieh Mall 3rd floor, Tel. 06 5822299
House of Tales and Music: (in Arabic) https://www.facebook.com/HouseOfTalesAndMusic
Jingo's Jungle: City Mall, top floor - indoor fun-fair - card operated
J'Imagine: Abdoun, Princess Basma Street, National Bank of Abdu Dhabi building - where parents can quietly finish an adult conversation while the little ones explore a borderless world of creation and imaginative play - Tel. 06 5927883, www.j-imagine.com
Jordan Kids' Club: Abdoun, Al Kurdi Street - games, pool, summer camp - Tel. 06 5925057
Jungle Bungle: Sweifieh, Bashut Al Issa Street, behind Modern American School - Indoor jungle gym - open daily from 10h00 until 19h00, 6 JD for unlimited time - Tel. 06 5861796
Jungle Bungle: Mecca Mall, top floor - trampoline and machines - card operated - Tel. 06 5536511
Kid Zone: Sweifieh, Tel 06 5926677
My Gym: 5th Circle, Princess Basma Street - games, gymnastics, music, dance - Tel. 06 5925113, www.my- gym.com
Soapy 4 Fun!: Tel. 079 5102911, www.soapy4fun.com
Speed Centre - Go Karting: Airport road opposite the Arabian Horse Club - Open daily 09h00 to 23h00 - Hel- mets provided - Tel. 06 4290306, Mob. 079 9233000 www.jsc-kart.com
Nursery and Children's Accessories All the supermarkets have a section that sells nursery items and accessories. The following shops are also popular:
Abdeen Grand Store: Arar Street (Wadi Saqra), Al Kair Center
· Babyshop Store: Mecca Mall and Brarid Street, Sweifieh
· Mothercare: City Mall and Mecca Mall
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Museums
Haya Center Children's Heritage & Science Museum: Shmeisani, Haya Arts Center - Tel. 06 5665195
Children's Museum of Jordan (CMJ): On the hill opposite City Mall next to the King Hussein Memorial - excel- lent hands-on interactive museum, indoor and outdoor areas full of educational activities - 3JD per child, or 45JD per family of 2 children per year - in English and Arabic - Tel. 06 5411479, www.cmj.jo
The Royal Automobile Museum: Beside the Children's Museum - A tribute to King Hussein's eventful life and to
commemorate his passion for cars and motorbikes - Open daily from 10h00 to 19h00 except Tuesday, free for children under 12 - Tel. 06 5411392, www.royalautomuseum.jo
Music
Freddy for Music: Abdoun near Bella Market, across from Abdoun Mall - Instrument rentals and music lessons - Tel. 06 5920085
Lana's Piano Studio: Abdoun, Al Qaherah Street - Ages 3-6 and 7-12 - Piano lessons and Music for fun - Call Lana on Tel. 06 5931832, Mob. 079 5643043
Music House: Deir Ghabar - instrumental and vocal, traditional and oriental - Tel. 06 5933443, Mob. 077 6311454/079 5411172, www.musichouse.jo
National Conservatory: Near 5th Circle
Royal Performing Arts Center: Tel. 06 5690291/2
Outdoor Fun Amman has playgrounds dotted around the city and the majority are entrance-free. Sand is usually used as ground cover. Below is a list of those most commonly used:
Abdoun: Ahmad Al Arousi Street, behind Simply Cozmo - playground with bicycle track
Bird Garden/Prince Hasheem Gardens: Shmeisani, Ahmad Urabi Street - menagerie and playground - small entrance fee
Fly kites at the Citadel, ask local kids to teach you how to make a kite (about 3JD)
Housing Bank Park: Abdoun, Suleiman Al Qdah Street (beside Crumz) - playground with grassy area
Jordan Adventure Camp: Airport road opposite Biharat - Arabian Horse Club - for older elementary children and up - climbing and other challenging outdoor activities - www.adenture-jordan.com
King Hussein Park: Al Madeenah Al Tibbiyah, Al Malek Abdullah Al Thani Bin Al Hussein Street - large park with play areas and beautiful view of Amman
Mountain Breeze at Zai Park:
Orthodox Club: Abdoun Circle, end of club car park - playground - entrance fee
Toy Shops There are many toy shops in Amman. Below are those most frequently used by expats:
Early Learning Centre: City Mall, 3rd floor
Hamleys: Mecca Street, Cozmo, and Abdoun
Istiklal Library: Sweifieh
Mikhi Store: Mecca Mall and Sweifieh
Toys & Toys: opposite Safeway parking near 7th Circle
Water Parks
Amman Waves: Airport Road - www.ammanwaves.com
Alwadi Resort: Dead Sea, beside the hotel strip - www.alwadiresort.com
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
DOMESTIC ANIMALS
Domestic Animals There are no restrictions on domestic animals. You may be asked for a certificate of good health and a vaccination card. In recent years, dogs have been kidnapped and sold off as guard dogs, for example. Whilst the number of incidents of this nature is small, you don't wish it to happen to you. If your dog is indeed the family pet, you should take precautionary measures, such as keeping the animal inside while you are not at home. If the dog must be kept outside, then it is advisable that he cannot be seen from the Street. Veterinarian Dr Alex Abu Ghazaleh Across from Jordan University Tel: 06 5341311 Mob: 079.5555945 Dr Ziad Chadid Clinic: 06 4789277 Mob. 079 5552526 Makes home visits Speaks Arabic and English Dr Moaid Jaber Sweifieh, Paris complex 17 Princess Taghreed Street Clinic: 06 5813268 Mob. 079 6868001 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Hani Masso Abdoun Clinic: 06 5931731/41 Mob. 079 5565630 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Akef Al Zoabi Sweifieh, Princess Taghreed St, Paris Complexe 17 Tel 06 581.32.68 Mob : 077 7719749 Animal Refuge The Humane Centre for Animal Welfare Airport Road Tel. 06 4129077 Mob. 079 5590241
Vet Zone Near 8th Circle Mob. 079 9699988 www.vetzone.net The Pampered Pet 11 Abed al Raheem al Hajj Mohammad, Sweifieh (near McDonalds) Mob: 079 6567052
Excellent at making/advising on arrangements if moving outside Jordan with a pet www.hcaw-jordan.com
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
HEALTH
Community Health Concerns Communicable diseases including TB, hepatitis, and schistosomiasis are found among the local population. Normal regimens of sanitation are the best defense against disease, such as careful washing of produce, regular hand washing, not swimming in fresh water, and keeping immunizations current. Many individuals suffer from allergies, especially in the spring; it's important for those who normally wear contacts to keep a pair of glasses as a back-up.
Hospitals There are very good hospitals in large towns and cities, with clinics in many villages. The main hospitals in Amman frequented by the expatriate community are the following:
Al Khalidi Medical Centre Ibn Khaldoum Street, between 3rd and 4th Circles Tel. 06 4644281-86 UN Designated Hospital Arab Medical Centre 33 Sulayman Al Hadeedi St., Abdoun 5th Circle, behind the Sheraton Hotel Tel. 06 5921199 Emergency room ext: 750/1 direct line on 06 5925801 Farah Maternity Hospital Mai Zeyadeh Street Tel. 06 4603555/3777 Fax. 06 4614440 www.farah-hospital.org
Medical Laboratories All of these laboratories speak Arabic and English.
Jordan Hospital Queen Noor Street, 4th Circle Shmeisani Tel. 06 5608080/30 King Hussein Medical Centre King Abdullah II Street, bottom of Mecca Street Tel. 06 5856856/5815572
5 Circle, behind Arab Heart Centre MthED LABS
Tel. 06 5922960
Zahran Central Laboratory 4th Circle Tel. 06 4613031
BIO LAB 5th Circle, behind the Sheraton Hotel and other branches Tel. 5924385
Pharmacies in Jordan Jordan has first-rate pharmacists and pharmacies in the Kingdom. You can find pharmacies in any given neighbourhood in Amman and the country at large. Pharmacies are open late into the night and many of them operate on a 24-hour basis and during holidays. Pharmacies in Jordan are also convenient drug stores, where you can find creams, baby food, and other similar products. Pharmacy One and Rawhi are two popular pharmacies in Amman. The former will deliver pharmaceuticals and other items to your home. Doctors There are many excellent doctors in Amman. A list of those that are commonly used amongst the expatriate community follows. *UN Designated Physicians
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide General Practice
Dr Mazen Al-Bashir Istishari Hospital Kindi Street, 5th Circle direction Shmeisani from 4pm at the Jordan Family Medical Centre Mecca Street Tel. 06 551364 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Mohammad Barakat * General Practitioner and Gastrologue Jordan Hospital, Queen Noor Street Tel. 06 5691500 Fax 06 5690700 Dr Aimy Khoury 09h30-16h00 daily except Friday Arab Medical Centre, 5th Circle Tel. 06 5921199 Ext. 721 Mob. 079 5539449 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Taroub Khoury * Internal Medicine Shmeisani, Laila Akhyaliyeh Street Tel. 06 5678909 Mob. 079 5551355 [email protected] Speaks English and Arabic
Pediatrics
Dr. Medhat Abu Shaaban ABU-SHAABAN An / Ar 5th circle, Hani Medical Centre Tél: 06 5921020 Mob: 079 5822137 Speaks English and Arabic Dr. Kareem Alzaka Jabal Amman - Abou Firas Al-Hamdani St. 24 hours Tel. 06 4649449 Speaks English and Arabic Dr Hind A. Dawani Shmeisani, corner of Ahmad Urabi and Ubadah Al Samet Streets (opposite entrance to Bird Garden) Tel. 06 5621020 Mob. 079 5584614 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Jarir Halazun Jordan Hospital, Queen Noor Street Tel. 06 5684450 Home: 06 5926881 Mob. 079 5570440 Speaks Arabic and English
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Dr. Samir Madanat Aqaba Mob. 079 5548220 Dr Samir Saker * Internal Medicine Arab Medical Center Tel. 06 5921199 Fax. 06 5921282 Dr Nagham Abu Shakra Family Physician/Women's health 5th Circle, near Arab Medical Centre/Sheraton Hotel Tel. 06 5933950 Mob. 079 5209729 Dr Adeeb Saleh Mob. 079 5569307 Makes home visits Speaks Arabic and French Dr. Lana Hatamleh Kilo Circle, behind Hamley's on Mecca St Um as Summaq Tel. 06 552 5451 FB: ammanfamilymedicine
Dr Marias Najma 6th Circle, Um Utheinah Mob. 079 5574402 Dr Marlin Nino Medical Complex Ala Kayleh 4th Circle, Ibn Khaldoun Street Opposite Khalidi Hospital Tel. 06 4648400 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Hamida Shaheen 41 Ibn Khaldoun Street (beside Al Khalidi Hospital) Tel. 06 4651212 Mob. 079 5562600 Speaks Arabic and English Dr. Wadah Audat Umm Uthaina Tél. 552.28.28 Mob: 079.55.88.201 Speaks French and Arabic
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Allergy
Dr. Saïd Abu Blan Allergist Al Zahrawi Str. Clinique Shmeisani Tel 06 5602909, 06 5931284, 06 5931284 Speaks English and Arabic
Cardiology
Arab Heart Centre 33 Sulayman Al Hadeedi St. 5th Circle, behind Hotel Sheraton Tel. 06 5921199 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Nidal Hamad * Cardiology 5th Circle, Al-Saudi Medical Building near the Arab Medical Centre Tel. 06 5920202 Fax. 06 5925202 [email protected] Dr. Yousef Qassous Tel. 06 4650888
Dermatology
Dr Ziad Al Zubi Also a vein specialist Abdoun Circle Tel. 06 5920413 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Joseph Bilbeissi Doctor to French Embassy Tel. 06 4630936 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Ear, Nose, & Throat
Dr Haytham Abdul Hadi Tel. 06 4640040 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr. Mazen Rahahleh Tel. 06 4619440
Endocrinology
Dr Mohammad Hilal Al Essra Hospital Tel. 06 5300300 Mob. 079 5013165 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr. Dina Zakka Tel. 06 4625044
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Dr. Muna Khater Tel. 06 5626198
Dr Suail Al Sweis 5th Circle, Al Shafi Clinic (opposite Arab Heart Centre) Tel. 06 5920470 Mob. 077 7316161 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Michel Bakri 5th Circle, Beni Hani Building (opposite Arab Heart Centre) Tel. 06 5922450 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Dr Louai M Khalifeh near Khaldi Hospital, No 54, 2nd floor Tel. 06 4652468 Dr Sanoua Baban Tel. 06 4655633 Mob. 079 5568419 Jabel Amman, beside Kookai Speaks Arabic and English
Dr Mohamed Arnaout Tel. 06 4643335 Home: 06 5824505 Speaks Arabic and English
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Gastroenterology
Dr Mahmoud Junaid Jabal Amman by Al Khlalidi Hospital Tel: 06 4644474 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Sami Khurma * Gastro. Ent. & Hepat. Prince Mahammad strret, 3rd Circle Tel. 06 4642229 Fax. 06 4642229
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Nail A. Abaza Across from Arab Medical Center, Wadi Abdoun Tel: 06 5934425 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Efteem Azar Jordan Hospital, Queen Noor Street Tel. 06 5620411 Mob. 079 5531090 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Dr Nael Zreikat Tel. 06 5922242 Mob. 079 5527644 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Ibrahim Mashini (male) 4th circle, tall building on Abdoun side of roundabout Tel. 06 5931755 Mob. 079 5530535 Dr. Mohamed Samran Marj el Hamam Tél: 06 5713968 Mob: 079 5220022 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Maher Sarraf (male)
Dr Amal Dakkakrd(female) Farah Hospital, 3 Circle Tel. 06 4603555/4603777 Speaks Arabic and English Dr. Yasser Khalifa Tél: 06 5353666 Mob: 079 5661515 Speaks Arabic and English
Occupational Therapy
For special needs children requiring therapy Dr Al Masar Khalda Tel. 06 5338278
Ophthalmology
Dr Nadia Mawas Wadi El-Seir Tel: 06 5810627 Mob: 079 5640416 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr. Khaled Al Sharif Tel. 06 4644066
Physical Therapy
Dr. Hussam Kharoba Mob: 079 5591919 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Al Amal Maternity Tel. 06 5607155 Mob. 079 5544955
Dr Maysam [email protected]
Dr. Iyad Farah Near Al Khalidi Hospital Tél: 06 4655987 Speaks Arabic and English Dr, Samir El Mulki Pediatric ophthalmologist Tel. 06 5516808
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Orthopaedics
Dr. Kamel Afifi Tel. 06 5676767 Dr Amr Amr Tel. 06 5931611 Mob. 079 9760496 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Psychology
Monique Damgajian-Jolas Abdoun Mob. 077 7784494 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Pulmonology
Dr Abdul Rahman Anani Tel. 06 4641339 Mob. 079 5537505 Speaks Arabic and English
Rheumatology
Dr Khalil Abadi Tel: 06 4628877 Mob: 079 5160744 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Saed Albarghouty Al-Mutanabbi St., near 3rd circle Tel: 06 4643133 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Vascular and Thorasic Surgery
Dr. Al Qudah Jordan University Hospital Tel: 06 5353444 ext. 2793 Mob : 079 5590788 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Acupuncture/Massage/Physiotherapy
Dr Hussam Kharoba
Dr. Majd Sharif Tla'a Al Ali Hospital Tél: 06 5339008 Speaks Arabic and French
Dr Basem Kamel 25 Al-Taj St./Al Awdeh St Al Bashir Hospital Tel: 06 4775111 Speaks Arabic, English and French
Dr Yang
Mob. 079 5591919 Shang-HaithMassage Centre makes home visits Between 5 and 6th Circles, beside Whispers restaurant Speaks Arabic, English and French Tel. 06 5924028
Mob. 079 5996075
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Dentistry
Dr Bassim Al Saadi Implant Specialist 5th Circle Tel. 06 5937070 Mob. 079 6885588 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Nabil Asfour Tel. 06 5923250 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Lara Bakaeem Tel. 06 4646456 Dr Edouard Hakim 3rd Circle, Prince Mohamed Street Tel. 06 4644926 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Salim Ismail
Speaks English, Arabic, and French Dr Maha Khorsheed Sweifieh, Wakalat Street (pedestrian Street) Tel. 06 5813913 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Nabil Michel Layyous Al Khalidi Dental Center Tel: 06 4630093/4644281 [email protected] Dr Jamal Mashini Mob: 079 5942472 Speaks English, Arabic, and French Dr Sleiby Near Arab Medical Centre Tel. 06 5930015 Mob. 079 5754413
Implant Specialist 5th Circle, behind Arab Medical Centre Entrance opposite Emergency, 3rd floor Tel. 06 5931335 Mob. 079 6252826 Speaks Arabic, English and French Dr Suhair Kalawi Tel: 06 4657871 Speaks English and Arabic Dr Mathila Khalaf Jabal Amman, near 3rd circle Tel: 06 4613535 Mob: 079 5888728
Orthodontics
Dr. Khaldoon Al Khazawneh Jabal Amman, Al Khaldi Street Mob: 079 6789777 Speaks English, Arabic, and French Dr, Lama Al Jarrah Tel. 06 5934534 Dr Kamal Kawasni 65 Wadi Saqra (Ibn Seena) Tel: 06 5516303 Speaks English and Arabic
Dr Amjad Sabieha Paediatric dentist 5th Circle, Back of Hotel Sheraton between hotel car park and Arab Medical Centre Tel. 06 5926663 Dr Nora Tleel Paediatric dentist Sabeel Plaza Building - Al Rabiah Tel. 06 5527278/9 Speaks Arabic and English Dr Yassar Nafa Wasfi Al Tal Street (Gardens Street) Building Al Akkad B, 1st floor Tel. 06 5325000 Mob. 077 7790956 Speaks Arabic and French Dr Samir Sunna 4th Circle, Al Naser Medical Centre Tel. 06 4650928 Speaks Arabic and English
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
RECREATION AND LEISURE
Aerial Sports
Royal Jordanian Gliding Club: - https://www.facebook.com/RoJoGC
Royal Aero Sports Club, Tel. 03 2058050, 079 7300299, http://www.rascj.com Badminton
Shuttlers: Tel. 079 6132632, [email protected], http://www.facebook.com/SHUTTLERS
Bicycling
Cycling Jordan Club: Tel 078 5552525, www.cycling-jordan.com
Bike Rush: http://www.facebook.com/bikerush
Bike Jordan: Weekend bike trips, Tel: 078 5552525, [email protected]
Nader Bikes: http://www.facebook.com/NaderBikes
Amman Bicycle Polo Club: http://www.facebook.com/bikepoloJordan
Bowling
Strikers at Hotel Kempinski - Shmeisani, Tel 06 5200200
Jordan Bowling Center at Mecca Mall: Tel 06 5512987
Royal Automobile Club - 06 5850626 Chess
Royal Chess Club: open daily 16:00-22:00, Tel: 06 5666382 Cinemas
Grand Cinema: City Mall - Tel. 06 4613260; Zara Center - Tel. 06 5818808
Cinema City: Mecca Mall - Tel. 06 5518611
Prime Cinema Store: Al Baraka Mall (sometime French sub-titles) - Tel. 06 5858500
TAJ Cinemas: Taj Mall - Tel. 06 5937714
Concorde: Shemeisani/Abdali - Tel. 06 4618274 Dancing
Arthur Murray: Sweifieh - Ballroom, Latin and Salsa - Tel. 06 5862404
Dance Mania Academy: http://www.facebook.com/pages/DMA-Dance-Mania-Academy/167889079936339
Freeway Dance Studios: Shahrouri Plaza, Wakalat Street, Sweifieh - ballet, jazz, modern - Tel. 06 5827887/5858649, Mob. 077 7833842
Music House: Deir Ghabar - ballet, jazz, salsa, modern, oriental - Tel. 06 5933443, Mob. 077 6311454/079 5411172, www.musichouse.jo
Tempo Studios: 5th Circle, beside Whispers restaurant - Tel. 06 5938939, www.tempojordan.com
Zumba Jordan: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Zumba-Jordan/222485294463751
Diving
Aqaba Adventure Divers, Tel. 079 5843724, www.aqabadiving.com
Red Sea Dive Center, Tel. 079 5591310, 079 7422331, [email protected] Go Karting
Jordan Speed Center: Um al Kundum Hills, off Airport Rd near Bisherat stables, Tel: 06 4290306
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide Golf
Bisharat Golf Club: Airport road, exit after Amman waves.Tel. 079 5520334, www.golfinjordan.com Hiking, Trekking, and Climbing
Climbat Amman: Marj Al Hamam, Dead Sea Road, on the left just after Harley Davidson
Motorcycles. Tel. 06 5736177, www.climbat.com
Abraham's Path: http://www.abrahampath.org/jordan.php
Pro Hikers Jordan: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pro-Hikers/212398155461693
Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature: http://www.rscn.org.jo/
Tropical Desert: http://tropicaldeserttrips.com/
Horse-Riding
Arabian Horse Club (Bisharat): Aiport road - exit just after Amman Waves. Tel. 06 4291386/7
Country Riding Center of Jordan: in Jelad, Tel. 05 3514008
Princess Alia Center for Riding: Sport City, Tel. 06 5675739
Saifi Stables: Airport road - exit after Amman Waves, next road up from Arabian Horse
Club. Tel. 077 7442222, www.saifistables.com
Fitness Clubs
Aline Fitness Center: Gym, pool - Mecca Street, Tel. 06 5811001, www.alinefitness.com
Body Design (women only): Tel: 06 5929669
Crossfit Quicksand 29 Ahmad al Dalahmeh, Tel. 079 5646440
DNA Personal Training Boot camp, Tel: 06 5921449
Fitness First: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8505170039. Fitness centre with several branches throughout Amman.
Fitness First Platinum: Abdoun, Sa'd Abdoh Shammout Street, Tel. 06 5923414. Largest of the Fitness First group with gyms, squash, large swimming pool.
Fitness One: Mecca St, Tel: 06 5859924
FLEX: 7th Circle, Tel: 06 5811240; FLEX Eve (women only), near University of Jordan, Tel 06 5300950
GX Gym Medina St (near Burger King), Tel. 06 5857446, 079 6802729
Mountain Breeze Country Club: Jala'ad near Zai, Al Salt (north-west of Amman), Tel. 077 7234569 or 079 6382828, www.jordanadventure.com. Something for everyone: relax in the green surroundings, numerous outdoor activities (e.g. paintball, archery, volleyball, children's playground) or just enjoy a good meal at the terrace restaurant.
Orthodox Club: Abdoun circle, Tel. 06 5920494. Large outdoor pool and 25m indoor pool. Gym, squash, tennis, football, play area. Popular local club.
Power Hut: Al Thaqafa St, Shmeisani, Tel. 06 5686349
Royal Automobile Club: 8th circle and Wadi Saqra, Tel. 06 5850626/4622467, www.racj.com.jo. Pools, tennis, play areas and good food. A hang out for wealthy well educated teens.
Sport City: Huge sport complex with tennis, squash, pool, riding, walks, cycling, theatre.
VY: Behind Abdoun Mall, Tel. 06 5923828, www.vylife.com. Sport club with gym and pool.
Football/Soccer
Women's Soccer: http://www.facebook.com/WomanSoccerAmman
SSA Football: at New English School, Tel. 079 9750758, [email protected] Martial Arts
Family Tae Kwon Do Center: Tel. 06 5920239
Capoeira: http://www.facebook.com/CapoeiraAmmanJordan
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Paintball
Mountain Breeze: http://www.jordanadventure.com/
Paintaball Jordan: Tel: 078-8381234
Parkour
Team X Gravity: http://www.facebook.com/pages/X-Gravity/158598980823009 Running/Walking
Fast Walk Amman: Twice weekly, usually Sundays and Wednesdays, at 8pm. Small donation to charity. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=125029157513963#!/group.php?gid=18858233424
Amman Road Runners: serious running group, [email protected]
Hashemite Hash House Harriers (HHHH): meet Mondays, http://www.hashemitehhh.googlepages.com
Rugby
Nomad Rugby Club: https://www.facebook.com/NomadsRugbyClubAmman Ultimate Frisbee
Amman Ultimate Frisbee: at Modern American School, http://www.facebook.com/AmmanUltimateFrisbee Volleyball
VolleyJO: https://www.facebook.com/VolleyJO Yoga/Pilates/Barre
Art of Living Foundation: Tel. 079 6606746, http://www.facebook.com/groups/39898932987/
Galleria Yoga Center: Tel: 079 5521099
One with Nature: Tel: 079 6223099, http://www.onewithnaturecenter.com/
Yoga Jordan: http://www.facebook.com/YogaJordan
Yoga with a View: http://www.facebook.com/groups/yogawithaview/ Associations and Social Clubs
Amman Accueil: Various activities are available to Francophone women workshop mosaics, watercolor classes, etc.. Chair: Myriam Radjouh Tel. : 077 6595701
American Center for Oriental Research (ACOR):
American Women of Amman (AWA) www.awajordan.com
Aussies and Friends Jordan: http://web.me.com/sandi_titus (User Name: aussie / Password: oioioi)
British Club: Abdoun (behind Orthodox Club). Allows some internationals only. Has limited facilities (very small pool, tennis, football pitch, etc.) and organizes social events. Not so much for older children apart from soccer and tennis. Tel. 06 5909330, 079 6921560
British Ladies of Amman www.bristishladiesofamman.com
Club des Femmes Francophones: Meeting every Wednesday at 10:00 am at the French Cultural Center in Jabal Weibdeh.
Friends of Archaeology - Tel: 06 5547905
International Women's Association Amman (IWAA)
L'Institut Francais de l'Archeologie du Proche-Orient, Tel: 06 4643840
La Détente: [email protected], http://ladetentejordanienne.ifrance.com; Organization with family and friends speaking out, parties, rallies, bowling, etc.
Rotary Club of Amman Tel : 06 592 76 93, Contact Mr Fouad - Weekly meeting
Shams: 3 Abdul Mina'am Al Rifai St, 3rd Circle, Tél : 077 6740787, [email protected] , www.shamsjordanie.org
Rainbow Toastmasters Club http://596103.toastmastersclubs.org/
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
FINE ARTS
Art Centers
Al Hara Art Gallery 7th Circle, opposite DHL near Happy Family Store Tel. 06 5828126 Beit al Bawadi Abdoun, near Wadi Abdoun Amman 11185 Tel: 06 5925841/5930070 http://www.beitalbawadi.com Café des Artistes Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman Tel: 06 4638239 https://www.facebook.com/CDArtistes Dar Al Anda (beautiful view of Amman) Jabel Weibdeh, Dhirar Bin Al Azwar Street Tel. 06 4629599 www.daralanda.com Darat Al Funum (café and gardens) Jabel Weibdeh, Khalid Shoman Foundation 13 Nadaim Al Mallah Te. 06 4643251 www.daratalfunum.org El Khazneh
Nabil Farah Sweifieh, Naib Imran Al Mayatah Street Tel. 06 5810720 Foresight Art Gallery 5th Circle, 32 Ibn Al Roumi Street Tel. 06 5560080 www.foresightartgallery.com
Jacaranda Gallery Omar Bin Al Khattab Street (Mango Street), Building # 18 Jabal Amman Telr: 06 4644050 http://www.jacarandaimages.com/ Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts Jabel Weibdeh, Hozni Fareez Street Tel. 06 4630128 www.nationalgallery.org Lines Contemporary Art Gallery Jabel Amman, 1st Circle Othman Bin Afan Street, next to Wild Jordan Café Tel. 06 4655084 http://www.linesgallery.com
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Love on a Bike 36 Khirfan Street (last right from Rainbow) Tel: 079 6433311 http://www.loveonabike.com/ Makan 21 Nadim Mallah St., Jabal alWeibdeh Tel: 06 4631969 makanhouse.net
Nabad Gallery 46 Uthman bin Affan Street Off Rainbow St, Jabal Amman Tel: 06 4655084 http://www.nabadartgallery.com Orfali Art Gallery and Art Center Summer camps for children
Um Utheineh, 46 Kufa Street Tel. 06 5526932 www.orfali.net Orient Gallery Abdoun, off Sa'd Zaghloul Street Tel. 06 5931331 Mob. 077 7002070 www.orientgallery.net Royal Cultural Centre Daklieh Circle, next Sports City and the Ministry of Interior Queen Rania Al Abdullah Street Tel. 06 5661026 www.rcc.gov.jo
Silsal Ceramics Khlaif Al-s-Haimat Street 3rd Street off 5th Circle heading towards 4th Circle Tel. 06 5931128 www.silsal.com The Studio Prince Mohammad Street, opposite the Wafa Dajani Gas Station on the way to downtown Amman Tel: 06 4646367 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thestudiojo Wadi Finan Gallery Asfour St, just off of Rainbow Street. Tel: 079 5966623 Website: http://www.wfinangallery.com/ Zara Gallery Hussein Bin Ali St., Jabal Amman, 3rd Circle Tel: 06 4651433 http://www.zaragallery.org
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Music Conservatory of Music Ras Al Ain Tel : 06 4767221 Sat-Thu 9:30-13:30 and 15:30-18:30, Closed Fridays. Being introduced to music and all levels, private lessons; piano and other instruments. Dozan wa Awtar Musical Estab choral group Tel: 06 5920542 www.dozan-awtar.com DJ Khalil Ju'aneh: (very good music) Mob. 079 6906269 Freddy for Music Abdoun and Gardens Music lessons for all levels, dance Tel: 06 5692696/5920085
Photography The 7iber Photography Meetups [email protected]
Handicrafts, Upcycling, and Gifts
iPlay Music Center 23 Paris St, Husseini Center, Sweifieh Tel. 06 5868676 www.iplaymc.jo Lina piano teacher Tel : 06 5343628 Music House Mohammad Zgoul St, Dier Ghbar Tel. 06 5933443 Mob. 079 5411172 YMCA Choir Tel: 06 4641119 Zeina Al Tamimi piano teacher Deir Ghbar Mob: 079 5657748
Al Hussein Foundation: Shmeisani, Fares Al Khoury Street - souvenirs, rugs, lovely idea for gifts -
Tel. 06 5607460, www.nooralhusseinfoundation.org
Al Hussein Society for Disabled Children: 7th Circle, Mousa Al Fayed Street - Tel. 06 5826273. www.alhusseinrehab.org.jo - two charity shops:
New to You: second-hand items (clothes, toys, etc.)
Kenz: children's costumes, children's wooden furniture, cushions, etc.
Desert Rose Holy Land Designs: Wadi Seer, 5 Abbas Sulayman, first side street in front of fruit n' veg market - beautiful olive wood carvings, rugs and silk items - phone Lynn Smith, Director, to say you're coming and you'll get a tour of the workshop, Tel. 06 5831022, www.holylanddesigns.net
Jewellery:
Aza Fahmi: Issam Ajlouni St, Shmeisani, Tel. 077 9002222, 06 5529022
Christina Ferrari: Tel. 079 6783381, www.christinaferrari.com
Lama Hourani: Foresight Gallery
Lumani Designs: Tel. 079 5162165, www.facebook.com/lumanidesigns - customized and exclusive de- signs - has 2 charity jewellery lines: Yazan Ayoub for children with cancer and 7 positive words for breast cancer
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Nadia Dajani Shop in the Intercontinental Hotel
Jordan Meningitis Foundation: off Mecca across from Bel Mondo, embroidery
Jordan River Foundation: 1st Circle, Rainbow Street - Tel. 06 4612169/4613081, www.jordanriver.jo - NGO promoting beautiful Jordanian craft that empowers local communities, especially women and children
Limited Edition: 4th Circle, Ibn Khaldoun Street - make artistic boxes and photo albums
Soap House: 1st Circle, very end of Rainbow Street - beautiful view of the Citadel; lovely ideas for presents
Souvenirs of Jordan: Dead Sea road opposite Al Salam fuel station
Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
EATERIES Bakeries and Ice-cream
Chez Hilda: Tea room and cakes - Sweifieh
Frosti: Ice-cream - Um Utheineh gold souk
Gérard: Ice-cream - Abdoun Circle and Rainbow Street
Ghraoui: Chocolates - Behind Arab Medical Centre
Jabri: Ice-cream - several in Amman of which 1 on Zahran Street just after 5th circle
La Mirabelle: excellent cakes - Rivoli Plaza building at Shmeisani and Abdoun
Le Nôtre: French chain - Abdoun
Paul: French chain - City Mall (2nd floor)
Sufara: local bakery - Sweifieh
The Mill: very good petits fours, excellent pain au chocolat - between 6th and 5th Circles
Zalatimo Brothers for Sweets: Excellent Arabic sweets - several shops throughout West Amman Cafés
Bert's Café: Abdoun Circle - Tel. 06 5920899
Blue Fig: Abdoun, Al Ameer Hashem Bin Al Hussein Street (just before Starbucks) - arty and fashionable, music nights and art exhibitions - Tel. 06 5928800
Books@Café: 1st Circle, Omar Bin Al Khattab Street (turn right at end of Rainbow Street just before No Entry sign) very hip - retro style, first cybercafé in Amman, book shop on ground floor, beautiful view of old Amman and
the Abu Darwish Mosque, brunch on Fridays - Tel. 06 4650457
B@C: the Abdoun branch of the original Books@Cafe
Caffe Strada: 15 Mohammad Rashid Ridha (Just off Rainbow Street), Jabal Amman, Tel: (962-6) 461-0017
Turtle Green Tea Bar: 46 Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman, Tel: (962-6) 464-4813
Wild Jordan Café: 1st Circle, Othman Bin Afan Street (off Rainbow Street) - organic food, beautiful view of the Cit- adel and downtown Amman - Tel. 06 4633542
Pubs/Lounges
Buddah Bar: Le Royal Hotel, 3rd circle, Tel. 06 460-3000
Cantaloupe: 10 Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman, Tel: (962-6) 465-6561, 077-773-3333
Canvas: Jabal al Weibdeh, Tel: 06 592-6285
Entrecote Café de Paris: (Above Levant Restaurant), 3rd Circle, Tel: 06 462-8948, 079-660-9000
Grappa: Second Circle, Jabal Amman, Tel: 06 465-1458
Oobe: AlQasr Metropole Hotel, 3 Arroub St, Shmeisani, Tel: 06 566-6140 Ext. 3
Salute: 1st Circle, behind Iraqi Embassy - terrace with a view -Tel. 06 4651458
Sanctuary: 5th Circle, Sheraton Hotel - Tel. 06 5834111 Ext.5320
Sangria: Off Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman, Tel: 079-715-0555
The Living Room: (above Romero), Third Circle, Jabal Amman, Tel: 06 464-4227
Cheap Eats
Shwerma Reem: 2nd Circle, famous lamb shwermas
Felafel Al Quds: Rainbow Street
Hashem: famous old 24-hour restaurant in the heart of al Balad: hummus, ful, falafel, salads
Habiba: knafeh, knafeh, knafeh; downtown
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
A Few Good Restaurants...
Fakhr el Din Arabic Jabal Amman Tel: 06 465-2399 Levant Armenian 3rd Circle, Jabal Amman Tel: 06 462-8948, 079-660-9000 Tannoureen Lebanese Um Uthaina Tel: 06 551-5987, 552-9108 Noodasia Abdoun Circle, Abdoun Tel: 06 593-6999 Ren Chai Chinese Between Fourth Circle and Third Circles, Jabal Amman Tel: 06 462-5777 Yoshi Japanese 3rd Circle, Jabal Amman Tel: 06 464-0903 La Maison Verte French Abed Al Hammeed Badis Street, Building No. 59, Shmeisani Tel: 06 568-5746 Indu Indian Intercontinental Hotel, Queen Zein Street Tel: 06 464-1361 Romero Third Circle, Jabal Amman Tel: 06464-4227/8 Explore and Find New Favorites http://www.ammansnob.com http://beamman.com http://youinjordan.com http://jo.jeeran.com/en/amman http://www.lonelyplanet.com/jordan/amman http://www.tipntag.com
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
TRAVEL IN JORDAN The Royal Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan may be a young country but its history goes back to 9000 BC. At a cross- roads between East and West, the sea and the desert, the oldest civilisations in the world have lived on its soil - the Egyptians, the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Hittites, the Greeks, the Romans, the Arabs and the Turks. Each society left its mark and cultural influence making Jordan a museum under the open skies. Amman The earliest signs of habitation in Amman proper date back to around 1800 BC. Amman was known as Rabbath Ammon (the Great City of the Ammonites) and was later renamed Philadelphia circa 250 BC. The city was originally built on seven hills (jebal), but today spreads over about twenty. Amman is really two different cities - Western Amman boasts modernism with large shopping malls, chic restaurants and wide streets, whereas the bustling markets, smokey cafés and crowded streets are more characteristic of East Amman. Historic sites of interest include the Citadel on Jebel al Qala'a, the Roman Theatre, the Omayyad Palace, Rainbow Street from First Circle, and the King Abdullah Mosque. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) has its tourist office in the Wild Jordan Café (just off Rainbow Street) and promotes historic walks in Amman. Around Amman
Iraq al-Amir: about 12 km west of Amman from Eighth Circle past the village of Wadi as-Seer visit the Caves of the Prince, Iraq al-Amir handicraft village and Qasr al Abd (Palace of the Slave).
Fuheis: about 15 km north of Amman from Eighth Circle and best known for its restaurants - Zuwwadeh (tel. 06 4721528) and Hakoura (tel. 06 4729152).
Salt: some 30 km north-west of Amman, Salt was the region's administrative capital during the Ottoman empire and boasts Ottoman architecture, an Archaeological Museum and a Handicraft Training Centre where you can watch artists at work and buy their products.
Desert Castles - as of 30 km East These castles have diverse architecture and are all within easy reach of Amman making it possible to visit in one day. They include Ajloun, Amra, Azraq, Hallabat, Kharana, Mushatta (closest to Amman near the airport). You can also visit the wetland and wildlife reserves in Azraq and stay at Azraq Lodge, which is run by the RSCN (tel. 05 3835017).
Madaba - 33 km South The King's Highway, used for over 3000 years for travel south, passes through Madaba, the 'City of Mosaics'. Main attraction in Madaba is the Madaba Map in St George's Church, which represents the oldest map of Palestine in existence and provides many historical insights to the region. The Archaeological Park and Museum are also recommended visits. Ten minutes from Madaba brings you to Mount Nebo from where Moses is said to have seen the promised-land, and from where you have a panoramic view of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and Jericho. Recommended restaurants:
Haret Djouna: popular with the expats on Talal Street. Reserve in advance tel. 05 3248650.
Siyagha Restaurant: buffet style on the road to Mount Nebo. Popular with tourists. About 30 km from Madaba is the Evasion Ma'in Hotel and Six Senses Spa - natural hot springs and a peaceful haven for a weekend of relaxation www.sixsenses.com.
Aqaba - 325 km South
The southern tip of Jordan and the country's only access to the sea, Aqaba is an important city for the country. Around the Bay of Aqaba, visitors can see four countries - Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. It is a great desti- nation for the cooler months as temperatures rarely reach below 20 degrees. Main attractions are diving and snorkel- ling, water sports, cruises, glass-bottomed boats, Aqaba Museum and Aquarium, and the Jordan Experience Show featuring the highlights of Jordan in 3D format with movable seats. Aqaba is also a duty-free zone; however beware of limits, especially alcohol, for checkpoint control. The town boasts a large choice of quality hotels along the sea front and at Tala Bay (about 10km south of Aqaba towards the Saudi border).
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Jordan LESA Welcome Guide
Jerash - 51 km North Jerash is one of the best preserved cities of the Roman Empire. Don't miss the Hippodrome to watch the chariot racing and gladiators (11h00 - 15h00 during summer and 11h00 - 14h00 during winter; no show on Fridays). Recommended restaurants:
Lebanese House (Bait Libnaan)
Al-Khayyam Restaurant
Jerash Rest House (on site)
Um Quais - 100 km North On the north-west tip of Jordan where three countries meet - Jordan, Syria and the West Bank - Um Quais boasts a fair- ly well preserved ancient Roman city and Ottoman village. Visitors have a spectacular view of the Sea of Galilee, the Jordan Valley, and the Golan Heights. The visit is not complete without taking in the view from the terrace of Le Romero restaurant and enjoying a mezze lunch or simply sipping mint tea. Reservation recommended: tel. 02 7500555.
Dead Sea - about 1 hour drive West Soak in the salted waters of the Dead Sea and envelope yourself in mineral-rich mud for the weekend or just for the day. There are a number of quality hotels - Holiday Inn, Kempinski, Marriott, Mövenpick, Dead Sea Spa Resort - on the edge of the sea and equipped with spas. Recommended to reserve your spa treatments in advance. Beaches outside the ho- tel complexes comprise:
Public beach with entrance fee: Amman Beach - pool and buffet restaurant Private beach with entrance fee: Obeach - www.obeach.net Water Park: Alwadi Resort - www.alwadiresort.com
Petra - 226 km South One of the new Seven Wonders of the World built by the Nabataeans from the 6th century BC. Petra is an unforgettable experience. Strewn over a vast area of mountains and wadis, it is worth considering a full day or even two to explore its history. Don't forget to show your residence card when buying the entrance tickets because the price differs enormously - 1 JD for residents, 50 JD for non-residents. Restaurants are found on the site. Hotels include the:
Mövenpick (03 2157111) and the Crowne Plaza (03 2156266), both situated at the main entrance to Petra
Marriott (03 2156407), perched on a cliff side on the road to Aqaba with superb views of the valley
Taybet Zaman (03 2150111), in the village of Tayyibeh on the road to Aqaba, it is constructed like an Ottoman village with a magnificent view of the valley.
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