Um Qais: The Overlooked Gem of Jordan

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya al-qa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [an-najdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab baeedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atasil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad 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 أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarrag]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bi kam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd as-sa'r?]

• What time is it?ما الساعة؟
  [ma as-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [as-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-'ashrah wal-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [as-sabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-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
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  ['asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayna...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al-uniwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Um Qais, known in antiquity as Gadara, was founded in the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd century BCE. Initially established by the Greeks, it became a significant cultural and intellectual hub within the Decapolis—a group of ten cities with strong Hellenistic influence in the region.

During the Roman era, Gadara flourished as a center of arts and philosophy. The city was known for its impressive architecture, including the construction of grand public buildings, theaters, and baths. Gadara was also the birthplace of several notable philosophers and poets, contributing to its reputation as a seat of learning and culture.

In the Byzantine period, Um Qais continued to thrive. Christianity spread throughout the region, and numerous churches were built, including the prominent basilica that stands as a testament to the city's religious significance during this era. The Byzantine influence is evident in the architectural styles and the remnants of mosaics found in the area.

The Islamic conquest in the 7th century CE brought significant changes to Um Qais. The city became part of the expanding Islamic Caliphate, and its strategic location made it a notable administrative and military center. The influence of Islamic culture is still visible in the remnants of mosques and other buildings from this period.

Under Ottoman rule, Um Qais was a relatively quiet town but retained its historical significance. The Ottomans built new structures, including the notable Ottoman village that stands today. This period also saw the integration of local Bedouin culture, adding another layer to the city's diverse historical tapestry.

The modern rediscovery of Um Qais began in the 19th century, attracting archaeologists and historians from around the world. Excavations have uncovered much of the ancient city's layout and artifacts, leading to significant efforts in preservation and restoration. Today, Um Qais is a prominent archaeological site, offering insights into its rich historical and cultural legacy.

Um Qais is located in northern Jordan, near the borders with Israel and Syria. The nearest major airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Amman, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach Um Qais. The drive from Amman to Um Qais typically takes around 2 hours by road. Public buses and minibuses (servees) operate from Amman to the nearby city of Irbid, from where you can take a taxi to Um Qais.

Um Qais is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are available and relatively inexpensive for longer trips. While public buses and minibuses do operate within the region, they can be infrequent. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Um Qais and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles can also be rented for those who prefer an eco-friendly way to explore the town.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns like Irbid, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving in Um Qais.

Um Qais is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable 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 Um Qais, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in nearby towns such as Irbid. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or historical sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress modestly and be quiet when visiting religious sites. 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. Use 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' (Peace be upon you) as a respectful greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Um Qais like a local, visit the local markets 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 town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient ruins of Gadara, which offer stunning views of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the Jordan Valley. For a unique experience, take a guided tour to explore the lesser-known historical sites and learn more about the area's rich heritage.