Jordan - Country info

Middle East.

89,342 sq km (34,495 sq miles).

5.9 million (CIA estimate 2006).

66 per sq km.
 

Amman.
Population: 2.5 million (2006 estimate).

Constitutional Monarchy since 1952.

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in the cities. French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken.

Over 94% Sunni Muslim, with Christian and Shi’i Muslim minorities.

GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 between March and October - dates vary).

Prime Minister Dr Marouf Al-Bakhit since 2005.

King Abdullah Ibn al-Hussein al-Hashimi since 1999.

Country code: 962. Card phones are available in most big cities and major tourist sites; cards can be purchased at numerous shops. International calls from hotels and post offices carry a three-minute minimum charge.

There are Internet cafes throughout the country. And available at hotels as well.

Jordan is trying to persuade Arab commercial satellite broadcasters to relocate to its media free zone, though investors remain concerned about safeguards against censorship. In 2003, the government repealed legislation that provided for jail terms for harming the king’s reputation or for inciting strikes, criminal activity or illegal gatherings.

Packages should be left opened for customs officials. The Central Post Office in Amman is the only post office where packages can be sent. Airmail to Western Europe takes three to five days. For a higher charge, there is a rapid service guaranteeing delivery within 24 hours to around 22 countries.

Sat-Thurs 0800-1800 in summer and 0700-1700 in winter, Fri 0700-1300.

• Arabic-language daily publications include Ad Dustour, Al Ra’y, Al Ghadd and Al Arab al Yawm.
• The English-language newspapers are The Jordan Times (daily) and The Star (weekly).

• State-run Jordan Radio and Television provides services in Arabic, English and French.
• Radio Fann is an FM entertainment station run by armed forces.
• Mood FM and Play 99.6 are private, pop music stations.
• The BBC Arabic Service and Radio Monte Carlo Middle East are available on FM in Amman and in northern Jordan.