What To Buy In Amman, Jordan

1. Traditional keffiyehs (scarves)

When you think of traditional Middle Eastern garb, the first thing that might cross your mind is a checkered scarf fashioned out of cotton. These traditional Jordanian scarves are called keffiyeh, and you can find plenty of shops that sell them. The Bedouins wear them in red and white checks, whereas black and white scarves are generally worn by Palestinians. Make sure you buy the square-shaped scarf or keffiyeh and learn how to wear it in true Middle-Eastern style.

2. Arabic coffee pots

If you are a coffee lover, then make sure you purchase a traditional Arabic coffee pot or dallah. Made of gold, silver, copper, or brass, the dallah is traditionally used to brew the Arabic coffee, qahwa, or the khaleeji, a bitter and spicy coffee. The latter is usually served during a feast. The coffee pot has a long spout and is often ornate and engraved with beautiful patterns. Serving coffee in this pot can make you feel nothing short of royalty.

3. Locally made chocolate

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If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try and buy some locally made chocolates. These decadent sweets are made from goat’s milk and offer a unique flavor. Often, artisan chocolates are a good buy and are made using in-season and local ingredients that make the chocolates delicious and one of a kind. Some even use pistachios, dates, and walnuts, lending them a great local appeal and flavor. You can look for popular brands like Alamieh Chocolate.

4. Ajloun olive oil

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Jordan is popular for its olives and Ajloun is one of the most famous areas offering the best-quality olives. You can buy pure and locally made Ajloun olive oil bottles from most shops in Amman. Made from freshly plucked olives, Ajloun olive oil is as pure as it gets. You can even visit an olive farm during harvest season and watch the process. The benefits of olive oil make it an ideal purchase.

5. Arabic sweets

If you’re looking for gifts for your loved ones, then include a box of delicious Arabic sweets on your list. There are multiple sweets to choose from, but if you wish to play it safe, then you can buy the baklavas. You can also pick up anise cookies and sweets with walnuts, dates, or pistachio. You can even buy an assorted gift box to get a wide variety of these mouthwatering Arabic sweets.

6. Model of a Bedouin tent

A great souvenir to bring back home that can remind you of Amman is a model of a Bedouin tent. These quirky showpieces are perfect travel memorabilia and can remind you of your happy times in Jordan. These models are made by local artisans, and the intricate workmanship is for all to see and admire. The colorful model usually comes with a miniature Arabic coffee pot, rug, and even fire pit. Some also have figures sitting inside the replica tent.

7. Camel and Aladdin lamps

You can purchase oil lamps similar to the one Aladdin had and hope a genie pops out. Oil lamps shaped like camels are also available for purchase. These oil lamps are usually made of brass and can range in size. Though most of these lamps can usually just be found on tourists’ shelves, some can actually be lit. Apart from the quirk factor, the craftsmanship alone makes these a worthy buy.

8. Dead Sea mud

Jordan is popular for being home to the Dead Sea, and over the years, the benefits of the mud have taken the world by storm. It is known to have antimicrobial properties, so those who purchase this mud usually use it on their faces to prevent breakouts. Rich in minerals, Dead Sea mud can be purchased at shops or at spas. You can purchase tiny packets of the mud, which make great gifts for a reasonable price.

9. Mosaic artwork

You can pick up mosaic ceramics when in Amman. This artwork is synonymous with Jordan and can be quite expensive. You can find traditional mosaics in Jordan’s Madaba area, which are the oldest in the region. However, you can also choose to buy coffee mugs, bowls, trays, and pottery with mosaic work for more budget-friendly options. You can even have your name customized on the mugs in Arabic.

10. Sand art in a bottle

Another unusual gift to buy in Amman is sand art in a bottle. These decorative bottles with colored sand can make great presents or souvenirs. Glass bottles contain different local scenes such as deserts, sunsets, camels, mountains, and more. These are hand-painted with colored natural sand and not digitally printed. The colorful bottles are part of local crafts and have been inspired by the multi-colored rocks and sand of the Petra Mountains. The decorated bottles require artistry and skill to be made. This type of art is one-of-a-kind and is the perfect memento to take back home.

Shop until you drop in Amman

Shopping enthusiasts can enjoy exploring the local bazaars and souks when in Jordan. There are so many local crafts and artwork such as mosaic mugs, sand bottles, and scarves to take back home as lovely presents for friends and family. Make sure to pick up some souvenirs that can remind you of the good times spent in Amman.