Language

The official language of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is Arabic. However, the spoken Arabic dialect differs from classical Arabic and varies from that used in Egypt, the Gulf States, and North Africa. Minor differences in pronunciation separate the dialects of Jordanians, Palestinians, Lebanese, and Syrians. (See the Language Glossary at the end of this book for more on Arabic.)

Due to nearly three decades of British colonial rule, English is Jordan’s second language. It is taught at both public and private schools, so almost all Jordanians have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the language. Most signs are written in both Arabic and English, and Jordan Television’s second channel broadcasts subtitled British and American programs after 8:30pm. French is taught as a third language by private schools and is occasionally spoken by the upper class.