15 Facts About Jordan Most People Get Wrong
Jordan is home to 10.2M people across 89,342 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for New 7 Wonders.
Below are 15 facts about Jordan, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Jordan
A complete overview of Jordan's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Jordan is home to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The Dead Sea, shared with Israel, is the lowest point on Earth.
Lawrence of Arabia led the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans from Jordan in WWI.
Jordan hosts the highest number of refugees per capita of any country.
Jordan is located in Middle East, Asia, with its capital city in Amman.
The population of Jordan is approximately 10.2M, spread across 89,342 km² of territory.
Jordan has a population density of 114/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Jordan has a coastline of 26 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Jordan shares land borders with 4 countries: Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel.
The official language of Jordan is Arabic.
Jordan uses the Dinar (JOD) as its official currency.
Jordan gained independence in 1946, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Middle East.
The total GDP of Jordan is $46B, with a GDP per capita of $4,510, classifying it as a lower-middle-income economy.
Jordan has a hot desert, mild mediterranean north climate, with the best time to visit being March–May, September–November.
Jordan is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $5–12.
Petra, carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs, was a thriving city of 30,000 people 2,000 years ago. The Dead Sea, on Jordan's border, is the lowest point on Earth at 430m below sea level.
🏆 Jordan World Rankings
Jordan holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Jordan
Jordan is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🏛️ Petra
A UNESCO rose-red city carved into sandstone cliffs by the Nabataean Empire
🏜️ Wadi Rum
A vast pink-sand desert of dramatic rock formations, used to film The Martian
🏟️ Jerash Roman City
The best-preserved Roman city outside Italy, still hosting events in its amphitheatre
🌊 Dead Sea
The world's lowest point, you float effortlessly in water 10x saltier than the ocean
Frequently Asked Questions About Jordan
What is Jordan famous for?
Petra, carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs, was a thriving city of 30,000 people 2,000 years ago. The Dead Sea, on Jordan's border, is the lowest point on Earth at 430m below sea level.
What is the capital of Jordan?
The capital of Jordan is Amman.
What is the population of Jordan?
Jordan has a population of approximately 10.2M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Jordan?
The official language of Jordan is Arabic.
When did Jordan become an independent country?
Jordan gained independence in 1946.
What currency does Jordan use?
Jordan uses the Dinar (JOD).
What is the GDP of Jordan?
Jordan has a GDP of $46B, with a GDP per capita of $4,510.
Where is Jordan located?
Jordan is located in Middle East, Asia.
Is Jordan safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Jordan vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Jordan?
Jordan is home to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Dead Sea, shared with Israel, is the lowest point on Earth. Lawrence of Arabia led the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans from Jordan in WWI.
What are some interesting facts about Jordan?
The Dead Sea, shared with Israel, is the lowest point on Earth. Lawrence of Arabia led the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans from Jordan in WWI. Jordan hosts the highest number of refugees per capita of any country.
Jordan facts: what should I know?
Jordan is a country in Middle East with a population of 10.2M. Its capital is Amman and its official language is Arabic. Jordan is home to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
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