Shopping in Amman: Souks, Malls, and Local Markets

Amman offers a diverse shopping experience that ranges from traditional souks and bustling markets to ultra-modern malls and boutique stores. Whether you're hunting for authentic souvenirs, handcrafted treasures, designer brands, or everyday necessities, Jordan's capital has something for every shopper. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate Amman's retail landscape and find the perfect purchases to remember your trip.

Traditional Souks and Markets

Downtown Souks (Al-Balad)

The heart of traditional shopping in Amman is found in the downtown area, where a network of specialized souks offers an authentic Middle Eastern market experience. Here you'll find:

• Gold Souk - Located near King Hussein Street, this market features dozens of jewelers selling gold and silver pieces. Jordan is known for high-quality gold, often sold by weight plus craftsmanship fees. Even if you're not buying, the dazzling displays are worth seeing.
• Spice Market - Near the Husseini Mosque, colorful pyramids of aromatic spices create a feast for the senses. Look for za'atar (a thyme and sesame blend), sumac, saffron, and unique spice mixes for various Jordanian dishes. Most vendors will vacuum-seal purchases for travel.
• Souk Al-Bukhariya - This market specializes in traditional clothing, textiles, and souvenirs. It's an excellent place to find keffiyeh scarves, embroidered dresses, and Bedouin jewelry.
• Souk Al-Khudra - The vegetable market offers a glimpse into everyday Jordanian life, with vendors selling fresh produce, nuts, dates, and olives.

Shopping tips: Visit in the morning for a calmer experience, be prepared to bargain (politely start around 60-70% of the initial asking price), and bring cash as many smaller vendors don't accept cards.

Souk Jara (Seasonal)

Operating on Fridays during summer months (May to October) in Jabal Amman, Souk Jara is an open-air market featuring local artisans and designers. This is the perfect place to find:

• Handmade jewelry with contemporary designs
• Artwork by local artists
• Organic food products and homemade preserves
• Handcrafted soaps and beauty products
• Upcycled and eco-friendly crafts

The market has a festive atmosphere with occasional live music and food stalls, making it as much a social event as a shopping destination.

Friday Market (Souk Al-Juma'a)

Located in Ras Al-Ain, this sprawling flea market operates only on Fridays. It's a treasure hunter's paradise where you can find:

• Vintage and secondhand clothing
• Antiques and collectibles
• Household items and furniture
• Electronics and tools
• Unexpected oddities and curiosities

Shopping tips: Arrive early for the best selection, bring small bills, and be prepared for crowds and a bit of chaos. Keep valuables secure as the market can get very busy.

Modern Shopping Malls

Abdali Boulevard

This open-air complex in the new downtown area represents modern Amman's upscale shopping scene. The pedestrian-friendly boulevard features:

• International and local fashion brands
• Upscale restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating
• Beauty salons and wellness centers
• Art galleries and home décor shops

The Boulevard comes alive in the evenings when locals come to shop, dine, and socialize in the pleasant outdoor setting.

Taj Lifestyle Center

Located in Abdoun, this luxury mall caters to Amman's affluent shoppers with high-end brands and exclusive boutiques. The center includes:

• Designer fashion and accessories
• Premium beauty and cosmetics stores
• Gourmet food market
• Fine dining restaurants
• Upscale cinema

Mecca Mall

One of the largest shopping centers in Jordan, Mecca Mall offers a comprehensive retail experience with:

• Over 400 stores across multiple levels
• Major international brands and department stores
• Large food court with diverse dining options
• Entertainment facilities including a cinema and children's play areas
• Supermarket for everyday necessities

City Mall

Another major shopping destination, City Mall features a good mix of international and regional brands:

• Fashion retailers for all budgets
• Electronics and home appliance stores
• Carrefour hypermarket
• Family entertainment center
• Diverse dining options

Shopping tips: Malls are typically open from 10 AM to 10 PM, with some restaurants staying open later. Most stores accept credit cards, and prices are fixed (no bargaining). Malls are busiest on weekend evenings (Friday and Saturday).

Boutique Shopping Districts

Rainbow Street

This charming street in Jabal Amman has become a hub for unique boutiques and concept stores:

• The Soap House - Natural soaps and bath products made with Dead Sea minerals
• Wild Jordan Center Shop - Eco-friendly products supporting Jordan's nature reserves
• Mlabbas - Quirky t-shirts and accessories with Arabic typography and Jordanian themes
• Jo Bedu - Contemporary clothing with designs inspired by Arab pop culture
• Several antique shops and art galleries

Jabal Al-Weibdeh

This artistic neighborhood is home to independent boutiques and galleries:

• Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery - Contemporary art and design objects
• Naqsh Design House - Modern products inspired by Arabic calligraphy and patterns
• Jadal for Knowledge and Culture - Books and cultural items
• Several vintage clothing stores and concept shops

Sweifieh

A commercial district with a mix of shopping options:

• Wakalat Street - A pedestrianized shopping street with fashion retailers
• Sweifieh Village - An open-air shopping complex with boutiques and cafés
• Numerous jewelry stores and fashion boutiques

What to Buy: Authentic Jordanian Souvenirs

Traditional Crafts

• Mosaics - Jordan has a long tradition of mosaic art, particularly from Madaba. Look for pieces with certificates of authenticity.
• Bedouin Rugs and Textiles - Hand-woven rugs, cushion covers, and wall hangings with geometric patterns.
• Embroidery - Traditional Palestinian and Jordanian embroidered items like table runners, pillowcases, and dresses.
• Ceramics and Pottery - Hand-painted ceramics, often featuring Arabic calligraphy or traditional patterns.

Food and Culinary Items

• Jordanian Olive Oil - High-quality extra virgin olive oil from local producers.
• Za'atar and Spice Mixes - Essential seasonings for Middle Eastern cooking.
• Arabic Coffee (Qahwa) - Often flavored with cardamom and sold with traditional coffee pots (dallah).
• Dates and Nuts - Premium Medjool dates and Jordan's famous pistachios.
• Jordanian Wines - From the vineyards of the Jordan River Valley.

Natural Beauty Products

• Dead Sea Products - Minerals, mud masks, salts, and skincare items from the world's saltiest body of water.
• Natural Olive Oil Soaps - Traditional soaps made with local olive oil and herbs.
• Jordanian Perfumes - Locally produced fragrances, often featuring oud or jasmine.

Contemporary Jordanian Design

• Modern Arabic Calligraphy Art - Contemporary pieces that blend traditional script with modern design.
• Jordanian-themed Clothing - T-shirts, tote bags, and accessories with creative designs referencing Jordanian culture.
• Handcrafted Jewelry - Modern pieces incorporating traditional elements like evil eye motifs or Bedouin silver techniques.

Shopping Etiquette and Tips

Bargaining

Bargaining is expected in traditional souks and markets, but not in malls or boutique shops with fixed prices. When bargaining:

• Be respectful and keep the interaction friendly
• Start around 60-70% of the asking price
• Be prepared to meet somewhere in the middle
• Don't begin bargaining unless you're genuinely interested in buying
• Remember that a few dinars may mean more to the vendor than to you—aim for a fair price, not the absolute lowest

Tax Refunds

Jordan offers a VAT refund for tourists on purchases over 100 JOD from registered retailers. Look for the "Tax Free Shopping" logo, and ask for a special receipt. You can claim your refund at Queen Alia International Airport before departure.

Shipping Options

For larger purchases, many shops can arrange international shipping. Aramex and DHL have numerous locations throughout Amman if you need to ship items yourself. Some handicraft shops, particularly those catering to tourists, offer shipping services for bulkier items like rugs or large ceramics.

Shopping Hours

• Traditional Markets: Generally open from around 9 AM to 8 PM, with some closing for Friday prayers
• Malls: Typically open from 10 AM to 10 PM, seven days a week
• Boutiques: Usually open from 10 AM to 8 PM, with some closing on Fridays
• During Ramadan, shopping hours often extend late into the night after iftar (breaking of the fast)

Responsible Shopping

Support local communities and sustainable practices by:

• Purchasing from organizations like Jordan River Foundation or Iraq Al-Amir Women's Cooperative, which support women's economic empowerment
• Looking for the "Jordan Handicrafts" certification mark, which guarantees authentic, locally-made products
• Buying from Wild Jordan shops, where proceeds support nature conservation and local communities around Jordan's nature reserves
• Avoiding products made from endangered species or antiquities (which are illegal to export)

From ancient souks to gleaming malls, Amman's diverse shopping landscape offers something for every taste and budget. By exploring different neighborhoods and markets, you'll not only find unique treasures to take home but also gain insight into Jordanian culture, craftsmanship, and daily life. Whether you're hunting for the perfect souvenir or simply enjoying the experience of browsing colorful market stalls, shopping in Amman is an adventure in itself.