The Enchanted Wilderness of Dibeen Forest

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala ar-rahb was-sa'a]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathir]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatلا آكل اللحم
  [la akul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [liqad dalalt at-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallu']
• How much is it?بكم؟
  [bikam?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam as-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [as-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [as-sa'ah al-ashirah w al-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [as-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adh-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 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 الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata al-qadim (al-hafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Dibeen Forest is situated in an area that has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that early human settlements were present during the Bronze Age. The forest provided essential resources such as timber, game, and water, making it a suitable habitat for these early communities. Ruins and artifacts found in the vicinity indicate a rich history of human activity and adaptation to the forest environment.

During the Roman era, Dibeen Forest was a valuable resource for the empire. Romans utilized the forest's timber for construction and other purposes. The area's strategic location and abundant resources made it an important part of the Roman province of Arabia Petraea. Remnants of Roman roads and fortifications can still be found, hinting at the extensive use of the forest's resources during this period.

The Byzantine period saw continued use of Dibeen Forest. The Byzantine Empire, which succeeded the Romans, maintained the infrastructure and resource management systems established earlier. With the advent of Islam and the subsequent Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates, the forest continued to be a vital resource. Islamic architecture and inscriptions found in the area reflect the cultural transitions and the continued significance of Dibeen Forest through these eras.

Under Ottoman rule, Dibeen Forest was part of the larger administrative region of the Ottoman Empire. Local communities continued to rely on the forest for their livelihoods, utilizing it for agriculture, grazing, and timber. Ottoman records provide insights into the management practices and the socio-economic importance of the forest to the local population. Traditional land use practices have left a lasting imprint on the landscape and are still evident today.

In recent history, Dibeen Forest has been recognized for its ecological and cultural value. Efforts to conserve and protect this unique forest began in earnest in the late 20th century, culminating in its designation as a protected area in 2004. The forest is now managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), which works to preserve its biodiversity, promote sustainable tourism, and support local communities. Modern conservation efforts aim to balance ecological integrity with cultural heritage preservation.

Dibeen Forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic or rare. The forest's unique ecosystem includes Aleppo pines, oak trees, and a variety of shrubs and wildflowers. It provides habitat for numerous bird species, mammals, and reptiles. The rich biodiversity of Dibeen Forest underscores its ecological importance and the need for ongoing conservation efforts to protect this natural heritage for future generations.

Dibeen Forest is located in the northern part of Jordan, near the city of Jerash. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, approximately 70 kilometers away. From Amman, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public buses to reach Jerash. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road. From Jerash, Dibeen Forest is about a 15-minute drive. There is also limited public transportation available from Jerash to Dibeen, including minibuses.

While visiting Dibeen Forest, having your own vehicle is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility. Car rentals are available in Amman and Jerash. Local taxis can also be hired for day trips. Public transportation options are limited but include minibuses from Jerash. Within the forest, walking and hiking are the best ways to explore the area.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Jerash and Amman, but it is advisable to carry cash when visiting rural areas like Dibeen Forest. ATMs are available in Jerash, so withdraw sufficient cash before heading into the forest. Small vendors and local shops often only accept cash.

Dibeen Forest and the surrounding areas are generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Dibeen Forest, but staying vigilant is always a good idea.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities and police station are located in Jerash. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Carry a basic first aid kit when hiking in the forest. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in Jerash where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid loud behavior near mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, and use your right hand. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Dibeen Forest like a local, visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the forest is at its most beautiful. Engage with local guides who can offer insights into the flora and fauna of the area. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas within the forest. Don't miss the chance to explore nearby historical sites like the ancient city of Jerash, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Jordan's rich history.