Irbid: The Hidden Gem of Northern Jordan

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• 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 alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab ba'ida!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassal batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mariid]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatl]
• How much is it?كم تكلف؟
  [kam taklif?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكن خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkin kaff alsi'r?]

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

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkharitat)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhaflah alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tadhkirah (ila...)]

Irbid, originally known as Arabella, has its roots tracing back to the Bronze Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as early as 5000 BCE. It was an important settlement due to its strategic location and fertile lands, making it a hub for agriculture and trade.

During the Hellenistic period, Irbid, known then as Arabella, became a prominent city within the Decapolis, a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire. It flourished under Roman rule, with significant urban development including temples, theatres, and roads that connected it to other key cities in the region.

In the Byzantine era, Irbid continued to thrive as an important Christian center. Numerous churches were built, and the city became a significant node in the spread of Christianity across the region. Artifacts from this period, including intricate mosaics and religious texts, provide insight into the city’s spiritual and cultural life.

The 7th century brought significant changes to Irbid with the Islamic conquests. The city was integrated into the Umayyad Caliphate, marking the beginning of a new era. Irbid adapted to Islamic governance, becoming a part of the larger Islamic world while retaining its local significance.

Under Ottoman rule, which began in the early 16th century, Irbid was a bustling administrative center. The Ottomans established schools, markets, and mosques, contributing to the city's development. The period also saw the construction of the famous Ottoman barracks, which played a crucial role in the administrative control of the region.

In the 20th century, Irbid became one of Jordan's key urban centers. During the British Mandate and after the establishment of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Irbid saw rapid modernization. The city expanded significantly in terms of infrastructure, education, and healthcare, becoming a hub for northern Jordan.

Irbid is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, blending ancient traditions with modern influences. The city is home to several museums, including the Irbid Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Jordanian Heritage, which showcase artifacts and exhibits that reflect its diverse historical layers. Traditional crafts, culinary practices, and festivals continue to play a significant role in the cultural life of Irbid's residents.

Irbid is located in the northern part of Jordan, approximately 70 kilometers north of the capital, Amman. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Irbid. The journey by road typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. There are also regular bus services from Amman to Irbid, operated by companies like JETT and Trust International Transport.

Irbid offers various modes of transportation including taxis, buses, and shared minibuses known as 'servees'. Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Public buses and minibuses connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas. For a more flexible option, you can rent a car from one of the car rental agencies in Irbid or Amman.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but smaller establishments may prefer cash. ATMs are widely available throughout Irbid, so withdrawing cash is convenient. It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in more rural areas.

Irbid is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Consult local advice for the latest safety updates.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police assistance. For medical emergencies, dial 911 or head to one of the local hospitals, such as King Abdullah University Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering 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, but note that some locals may prefer not to shake hands with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Irbid like a local, visit the local markets such as Souq Irbid, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Irbid Archaeological Museum and Yarmouk University, which offer insights into the region's rich heritage. For a unique experience, explore the nearby Ajloun Forest Reserve and the ruins of Umm Qais.