The Elegance of Abdoun: Amman's Premier Neighbourhood

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [athara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bukhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriidu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتصفح
  [ana faqat atasafah]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sayruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsayr?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'at alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [almasa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albariha]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'awnan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata ya'ti alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirat (ila ...)]

The Abdoun neighborhood in Amman has its roots in the early 20th century, emerging as a residential area during the time when Amman began to develop into a modern city. Its strategic location on the hills overlooking downtown Amman made it an attractive area for affluent families, especially as the influx of people from various regions increased following the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921.

Throughout the mid-20th century, Abdoun became a cultural and political hub, attracting diplomats, politicians, and business elites. The neighborhood is known for its embassies and high-end residences, reflecting the socio-political dynamics of Jordan. This period solidified Abdoun's reputation as a prestigious area within Amman, often associated with the country's modern development and governance.

In the late 20th century, Abdoun experienced significant urban development, with the construction of luxury villas, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. The Abdoun Bridge, completed in the early 2000s, further connected the neighborhood to other parts of the city, facilitating an influx of residents and visitors. This modernization has transformed Abdoun into one of Amman's most sought-after neighborhoods.

Today, Abdoun is characterized by its cultural diversity, housing both local Jordanians and expatriates from various backgrounds. The neighborhood hosts multiple cultural events and festivals that celebrate this diversity, fostering a sense of community among its residents. Cafés, restaurants, and art galleries contribute to a vibrant atmosphere, making Abdoun a lively destination within Amman.

Despite its rapid modernization, Abdoun has made efforts to preserve its cultural heritage. Historical buildings and traditional homes still stand alongside contemporary architecture, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood's past. These efforts are part of a broader initiative in Jordan to maintain the cultural identity of urban areas amidst the challenges of modernization.

Abdoun is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Amman. You can reach Abdoun from the city center via taxi, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are also available, with routes that serve various parts of the city, but may require transfers. For those coming from Queen Alia International Airport, taxis are the most convenient option, taking approximately 30-40 minutes to reach Abdoun.

Abdoun is primarily accessible by taxi or rideshare services like Careem and Uber, which are popular and reliable. Public buses are less frequent in this upscale neighborhood. Walking is a pleasant option for short distances, as the area is relatively safe and pedestrian-friendly. Bicycles can be rented from various bike-sharing services available in Amman, although cycling in Abdoun may require navigating some hilly terrain.

Abdoun is considered one of the safer neighborhoods in Amman. However, standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and always keep an eye on your belongings. While the neighborhood has low violent crime rates, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police assistance or 193 for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers health issues while abroad. For minor health concerns, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications. Keep a list of the nearest hospitals and their contact information, as well as the location of your country's embassy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places and when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, including prayer times and rituals. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile, and use appropriate titles. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality. Don’t refuse food or drink, as it may be seen as rude.

To experience Abdoun like a local, visit the local cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Jordanian dishes. Engage with residents, who are typically friendly and open to sharing their culture. Check out local art galleries and boutique shops for unique souvenirs. Additionally, exploring the green spaces, like Abdoun Park, can provide a relaxing break from the urban environment.