The Enchanting Heights of Jabal Amman

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-ingliziyyah?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara al-qa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [lakad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uriid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghaali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh al-si'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-sa'ah al-ashirah wal-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa']
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخارطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata ya'ti al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Jabal Amman, known for its rolling hills and vibrant atmosphere, has its roots in the ancient city of Rabbath Ammon, which dates back to the 13th century BCE. This area was once a thriving hub of the Ammonite civilization, known for its strategic location and fertile land. The remnants of ancient fortifications and artifacts discovered in the vicinity underscore its historical significance.

The early 20th century heralded a period of transformation for Jabal Amman as it became a center for a burgeoning middle class during the Great Arab Revolt. The influx of Ottoman officials and expatriates led to the establishment of many of the neighborhood's iconic buildings, including the Royal Hashemite Court and the historic houses that define the area today.

The 1920s and 1930s saw Jabal Amman develop a unique architectural style that blends Islamic and European influences, often referred to as 'Jabal Amman style.' This architectural heritage is visible in the neighborhood's charming villas, many of which feature intricate stonework and ornate balconies. Key examples include the Abdul Rahman Hall and the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts.

Post-1948, Jabal Amman became a melting pot of cultures due to the influx of Palestinian refugees. This demographic shift enriched the neighborhood's cultural tapestry, infusing it with diverse traditions, cuisines, and arts. The vibrant souks and cafés reflect this cultural blend, making Jabal Amman a lively center for social interaction and artistic expression.

In recent years, Jabal Amman has undergone significant urban development while striving to preserve its historical character. Initiatives aimed at maintaining the area's architectural integrity have been implemented, alongside cultural festivals and events that celebrate its rich heritage. The neighborhood continues to be a focal point for art, history, and community engagement in modern Amman.

Jabal Amman is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Amman. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber are commonly used and provide a convenient way of reaching Jabal Amman from the city center or other districts. Public buses, while less frequent, also serve the area and can be a budget-friendly option. For those arriving from Queen Alia International Airport, taking a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle service is recommended, as public transport options are limited.

Jabal Amman is a walkable neighborhood, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. For longer distances, local taxis are available. Public buses do operate but may require some familiarity with routes. Bicycles can be rented in some areas, but be cautious of traffic. Walking is often the best way to soak in the rich history and architecture of the area.

Jabal Amman is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid wandering alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded places. Areas like some parts of East Amman may have higher crime rates, so it's advisable to stay vigilant and avoid these neighborhoods after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police assistance and 199 for ambulance services. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital; the King Abdullah II Hospital is a well-known facility in the area. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy, and ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious or traditional areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Jabal Amman like a local, visit the Rainbow Street for its vibrant atmosphere and local eateries. Explore the rich history by visiting the Royal Automobile Museum and the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts. Engage with local artisans in Souk Jara, a vibrant market that operates during the summer months. Don’t miss out on the traditional coffee shops where you can relax and enjoy the local culture.