Shopping In Jordan: A Complete Beginners Guide

Amazing architecture, seaside resorts, and natural reserves are what come to mind when one thinks of Jordan. With more than enough wonders to explore on a holiday, this is a country that surprises you for good. But what about shopping in Jordan? Well, if there's one fascinating thing that Jordan offers apart from its architectural wonders, it's a fine shopping experience. With fine streets, souqs, and top of the line shopping malls, the country has multiple wonders to enjoy today.

So, are you a shopaholic? Can't wait to explore the buzzing shopping streets of Jordan? Well, we have compiled a detailed guide of some of the finest shopping places and things that one can buy while in Jordan for a vacation.

Which Are The Best Shopping Places In Jordan?

Jordan is a country that boasts of its multiple wonders when it comes to the shopping experience. So, here are some of the finest shopping places located in the country today.

1. Al Balad

A shopping market that is approximately 60 years old, Al Balad has a lot to be admired for. The place is renowned for its vibrant streets and has a vintage touch about it. One can find many old traditional shops in the area while there are multiple shops of sweets, spices, apparel, and so much more. Interestingly, Al Balad is one of those places to go in the Middle East where loud music plays constantly throughout the day and the streets are busy.

What's more? There are many cafes and restaurants at Al Balad that travelers need to know about. So, the next time when you visit Al Balad on a holiday in Jordan, make sure to shop for the best of souvenirs here.

Location - K. Talal St.

Timings - 10 AM to 10 PM

2. Souq Jara

Now here's a fact, there are many things to do in Jordan but when it comes to a true shopping experience in the most traditional way, the Souq Jara has to be one of the prominent choices. This is a place where one can shop for the best of handicrafts and artworks. In fact, there are certain items here that one can never find anywhere in malls.

But here's a thing, the prices that are quoted at the shops here are quite high when compared to even the malls in the area. Hence, travelers are advised to bargain in the best possible way. Notably, this is a souq in Jordan that is only open on Fridays during the summers which is somewhat a setback. But if you're visiting here during the opening hours, well, it's worth it.

Location - Rainbow St., Amman, Jordan

Timings - 10 AM to 10 PM

Suggested Read: Beirut Shopping: A Paradise For International Brands And Souvenirs

3. Mecca Mall

Another fine place that is widely famous in Jordan, the Mecca Mall is one of the finest shopping places in Jordan and is particularly renowned for its shopping experience along with other facilities. The mall derives its name from the Mecca street while one can shop for various things here. Be it clothing, books, pharmacy, grocery, or anything else, the Mecca Mall has it all. Visitors coming here can shop from multiple brands while one can even head to the food court in order to enjoy a nice meal. It's because of places like these why Jordan features amongst the finest food destinations in the world. With multiple restaurants and cafés that serve delicious Jordanian food, this is a place you've got to visit when opting to go shopping in Jordan.

Location - Abdullah ad Dawud, Amman, Jordan

Timings - 10 AM to Midnight

4. Taj Mall

Another mall that offers shopping for the best of brands, the Taj Mall is a fine place with a huge variety of stores of toys, apparel, gift items and so much more. This is a mall that competes well with any souq in Jordan. Visitors can find many things to buy in Jordan as far as the Taj Mall is concerned.

Besides, while shopping is something that is bound to be a happening experience here in Taj Mall, one can expect to have the best of culinary experience as well. If you think of any top restaurant or cafe in Jordan, well, the Taj Mall has to be one of those places where there is a food court alongside various other entertainment options. One can watch a movie here and spend a relaxing time with friends and family. The best part? Well, the Taj Mall is one of the most picturesque malls in the country and offers a wide range of luxury brands.

Location - Pr. Hashim St 72, Amman, Jordan

Timings - 10 AM to 10 PM

Suggested Read: Shopping In Kuwait: Bringing The Best From The Old Traditional Markets

Top Things To Buy In Jordan

Well versed with the best shopping places in the country? Well, here are some of the best things that one can buy while shopping at the malls and souqs in Jordan.

1. Medjoul Dates

Have you ever tried some called Medjoul dates? If not, then you should at least once when on vacation. People often visit the Middle East for the Medjoul Dates. These dates of Jordan are huge, fleshy, and sweet and are ideal to be eaten as a snack for breakfast. It can even be made into a power-packed pre or post-workout shake or as an accompaniment with desserts. They are perfect gifts to be given to people. Dates are said to be stable food in Jordan and other places in the middle east. These are rarely found in any other country or continent. It is definitely worth shopping for.

2. Traditional Scarves

The most popular Jordanian souvenirs are embroidered items and Bedouin weaves. Apart from these, the most practical and iconic textile choices are the traditional headscarf, called keffiyeh in Arabic. The houndstooth checkered pattern is a classic Jordanian scarf, red and white worn by the Bedouins and black and white by the Palestinians. Tourists can buy one each as they are sold at the most visited places in Jordan.  These items often come with a lesson on how to wrap them around one’s head like a desert dweller.  SEP Jordan makes scarves and wraps in traditional styles and rainbow colors, which are a little more stylish. Women refugees supported by the company hand stitch the ethical pieces.

Suggested Read: Lebanon Shopping: A Detailed Guide To The Best Souvenirs & Souqs In The Country

3. Hand-painted Ceramics

Distinct Jordanian art forms are the Mosaics which are said to be the region’s oldest, which are said to be quite expensive. If you want something less expensive, then you can go for the Mosaic style ceramics.  You should pre-order a mosaic-style mug with your name printed on it in either Arabic or English before you take your flight to Jordan and then take it from Amman. You will see all kinds of traditional pottery, mosaic style, and other things on your adventure trip to Jordan. It will be a trip to remember and not something people should skip out on.

Suggested Read: Beaches In Kuwait Known For Their Hidden Beauty

4. Local Made Chocolate

Have you ever heard of the locally made chocolate in Jordan? There are several places in Jordan that make chocolate to reflect their local culture. The secret ingredient to making chocolate is local goat’s milk, especially in Jameed, a yogurt dried into hard cheese, also used in the local dishes like mansaf. One should give their taste buds a treat to the local chocolates. It is a different experience as it is not something that is made anywhere else in the world. So, when on vacation in Jordan, treat yourself to the chocolate and boast about it with your friends and family.  

Suggested Read: Shopping In Saudi Arabia: Top Souvenirs And Gifts Worth Buying In The Country

One of the finest destinations to visit on a holiday today, Jordan has a lot to be admired for. From top of the line malls to the finest of souqs, and more, this is a country that offers a shopping experience like no other. In fact, one can not only enjoy the shopping here but can engage in a number of other activities besides that. With some unique souvenirs and other things found in the markets here, travelers have a lot to look forward to when shopping in Jordan. So, book your Jordan plane ticket today and come spend a vacation in this country.

FAQs