Jordanian culture — Bedouins, Arabs, descendants of Nabataeans. History, hospitality. Pink city of Petra, Wadi Rum desert.
Language
Arabic official. Jordanian dialect with regional variants. English very widespread (higher education in English).
Bedouins and Tribes
Bedouins in desert — big part of Jordanian identity. Tribal system strong. Arab hospitality — Arabic coffee, dates, home meal for every guest.
Petra and Nabataeans
Petra — Nabataean pink city (UNESCO + 7 new wonders). 2300 years. Carved in rock. Nabataean language extinct but its alphabet became modern Arabic.
Religion
92% Sunni Muslims, 6% Christians (largest in Middle East). Baptism Site (UNESCO) where Jesus baptized in Jordan River — important Christian pilgrimage.
Cuisine
Mansaf — national dish (lamb and yogurt and rice). Falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, kibbeh, maqluba. Mint tea, Arabic coffee.
Traditions
Jordanian wedding huge show (dabke, tarab music). Ramadan family-focused. Independence Day (May 25). Royal coronation day.
Modern Culture
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts — largest Jordanian festival. New Jordan Museum Amman. International film shooting in Wadi Rum (Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, Star Wars, Dune).