When you study Arabic at Almujam Institute in Amman, you're not just immersed in language — you're also surrounded by the rich and diverse world of Jordanian and Middle Eastern cuisine. The institute's location places you just steps away from a wide selection of eateries that suit every taste, time constraint, and dietary preference.
Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch between Arabic classes or sitting down for a hearty post-study meal, the area offers something for everyone:
Authentic Jordanian dishes (shawarma, mansaf, maqluba, musakhan)
International options (Chinese stir-fries, Pakistani curries, American burgers, Tunisian couscous)
Health-focused meals (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Mediterranean diets)
Meal Times and Food Access
Since Almujam's teaching hours typically cover midday sessions, students often explore Amman's local food scene for lunch and light dinner options. While breakfast and late dinner fall outside the institute's hours, students can easily find:
Nearby restaurants and cafés open early and late
Takeaway and delivery options
Supermarkets and small grocers offering fresh and ready-made items
Staff-recommended catering options for students staying longer hours
Traditional Jordanian Food Culture: More Than a Meal
In Jordanian society, food is a powerful symbol of hospitality, connection, and generosity. Meals often bring families and communities together around large shared platters, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the country's Bedouin roots.
Jordanian Cuisine at a Glance
Rooted in the Levantine culinary tradition, Jordanian food draws on neighboring flavors from Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, offering a balance of:
Grilled meats and poultry (shish tawouk, lamb kebabs)
Rice-based casseroles (maqluba, mansaf)
Hearty soups and stews
Stuffed vegetables (grape leaves, zucchini, bell peppers)
Yogurt-based sauces and dips
Seasonal produce and aromatic herbs
Mezze: The Joy of Shared Appetizers
A typical Jordanian meal begins with mezze, a colorful and flavorful assortment of small dishes, perfect for sharing:
Hummus: a smooth blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic
Mutabbal: roasted eggplant dip with yogurt and olive oil
Tabbouleh and fattoush: refreshing parsley or toasted bread-based salads
Kibbeh: fried or baked cracked wheat stuffed with meat
Pickled vegetables, cheeses, and olives
Popular Dishes to Try While Studying at Almujam
If you're looking to try traditional Jordanian food near Almujam, here are some must-try dishes:
1. Shawarma - Rolled flatbread filled with roasted meat (typically chicken or lamb), pickles, garlic sauce, and fries — the go-to street food for students on the go.
2. Falafel - Deep-fried chickpea balls served in pita bread with hummus, tahini, and salad. A typical breakfast or quick lunch, especially popular on weekends.
3. Maqluba - A layered dish of rice, meat, and vegetables, flipped upside-down when served. A flavorful and home-style meal perfect for those craving comfort food.
4. Mansaf (The National Dish) - A signature Jordanian feast of lamb cooked in fermented yogurt (jamid), served over rice and shrak bread, garnished with pine nuts and almonds. Traditionally eaten by hand in group settings, it's a true symbol of Jordanian generosity and pride.
5. Musakhan - Roasted chicken seasoned with sumac and onions, served on taboon bread and soaked in rich olive oil — a beloved Palestinian-Jordanian specialty.
Don't Skip Dessert
Jordanian sweets are deeply satisfying and usually enjoyed with strong Arabic coffee or mint tea. Local dessert favorites include:
Kunafa: a layer of cheese or cream topped with crunchy kataifi dough and sweet syrup
Qatayef: stuffed pancakes filled with nuts or cheese, especially during Ramadan
Baklava and basbousa: semolina and nut-based sweets soaked in syrup
Learn to Cook Arabic Food in Amman
Want to dive deeper into the culinary world of Arabic cuisine? Join a local Jordanian cooking class! These hands-on workshops are perfect for:
Travelers interested in learning traditional recipes
Long-term Arabic students wanting to connect with local culture
Families and professionals looking for a fun cultural experience
Popular options include home-style kitchens, guided culinary tours, and professional studios offering lessons in everything from making falafel and hummus to mastering mansaf.
Jordan: A Stable and Welcoming Country in the Middle East
While the Middle East has experienced significant political and social changes over the past decade, Jordan has remained a pillar of stability in the region. The country is known for its calm environment, strong government institutions, and friendly population.
Amman, the capital city, is a popular destination for visitors, students, and expatriates. It is large enough to provide modern amenities but small enough to remain manageable and secure.
For newcomers, Amman offers a welcoming and relatively familiar environment when compared to other regional capitals.
Personal Safety in Amman
Amman is considered one of the safest cities in the Middle East, with low crime rates and a strong public security presence. Visitors generally find the city to be:
Safe for walking in most neighborhoods, even after dark
Well-organized with visible traffic enforcement and local police stations
Supportive of foreigners, with locals often offering help or guidance
As always, using standard safety practices is encouraged, such as keeping personal items secure and being aware of surroundings in busy public areas.
Healthcare in Jordan
Jordan is widely regarded for having one of the best healthcare systems in the Arab world. People from neighboring countries—including those from the Gulf, North Africa, and beyond—travel to Jordan for high-quality, affordable medical treatment.
Key Features of Jordan's Healthcare System:
Internationally trained medical staff, with many doctors completing their education or residencies in the U.S., U.K., or Canada
Bilingual service: Many doctors and healthcare providers speak English fluently
Modern hospitals and clinics equipped with advanced medical technology
Affordable treatment, often at a fraction of the cost in Western countries
Access to both public and private medical institutions
Pharmacies and Medication
Amman has a large number of well-stocked pharmacies that provide:
Most prescription and over-the-counter medications without the need for a doctor's visit
24-hour pharmacies in major areas
English-speaking pharmacists in many locations
Tip: International travelers are encouraged to bring any essential or hard-to-find medication with them, especially if they rely on specific brands or prescriptions.
Communication and Digital Connectivity
Staying connected while in Jordan is simple and budget-friendly:
Local mobile SIM cards are available for a small fee at the airport or in most shopping areas
Internet access is widely available in homes, cafes, hotels, and public spaces
Apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom are commonly used for voice and video communication
Jordan: A Safe and Healthy Choice for Visitors
From reliable healthcare to a welcoming, secure environment, Jordan continues to be one of the most attractive and trustworthy destinations in the Middle East for travel, study, or extended stays.
Explore Jordan with Almujam
At Almujam, language learning goes beyond the classroom. We believe that deep understanding of Arabic comes from living it, hearing it, and engaging with it in real-world settings. Our cultural immersion program offers a wide range of activities, field trips, and guided excursions that allow students to experience Jordan's rich heritage, landscapes, and daily life.
Each term, students enjoy a variety of structured trips and cultural outings, carefully designed to complement their language studies and create meaningful experiences.
Educational and Cultural Tours Within Jordan
Our excursions introduce students to Jordan's most important historical, cultural, and natural sites. Trips include:
Historical and Cultural Landmarks
Visits to ancient cities, castles, and traditional neighborhoods provide valuable context for understanding the Arab world. Destinations may include:
Ajloun and its famous hilltop castle
The city of Salt and the shrines of the Prophets
The Hijaz Railway and Ottoman heritage sites
Historic mosques, old towns, and museums
Cultural centers and local exhibitions
Religious and Spiritual Heritage
Students visit many sites significant in both Islamic and Biblical traditions. These visits connect language learning with deeper regional context. Sites may include:
The tombs of prominent companions of the Prophet
Sacred valleys and mountains associated with prophetic stories
Religious heritage routes across northern Jordan
Natural and Outdoor Exploration
For those who enjoy nature and adventure, our program includes trips to:
Wadi Rum desert for stargazing and Bedouin-style hospitality
Aqaba for swimming and exploring the Red Sea coast
Horseback riding and nature trails
Mountain villages and forested areas in the north
Regional Travel Opportunities
Depending on availability and interest, students may also have the chance to travel beyond Jordan to explore neighboring countries such as:
Palestine, with visits to Jerusalem and other sacred landmarks
Egypt, to experience ancient civilization and modern culture
Oman or Morocco, for immersion in diverse Arabic dialects and traditions
Weekly Activities and Cultural Events
To enrich student life, we offer regular weekly events, which may include:
Public Talks and Lectures
Speakers and educators share insights on topics related to:
Arabic linguistics and literature
Jordanian culture and society
Religion, politics, and regional history
Refugee issues and multicultural dynamics
Workshops and Group Activities
Students take part in interactive sessions that help them engage with the Arabic language through:
Cooking demonstrations
Debate tournaments
Art and calligraphy
Group discussions and creative projects
Film Nights and Themed Evenings
Cultural film screenings, student-led performances, and community nights help foster bonding and language use in informal settings.
Social Life and Community Building
From the first day to the closing ceremony, each term includes key moments such as:
Welcome orientation and city tours
Sports tournaments and games
Museum visits and cinema outings
Graduation celebrations and farewell gatherings
A Language Journey Enriched by Experience
The immersion program at Almujam is designed to help students connect with the Arabic language through the living culture of Jordan. Each experience reinforces classroom learning, encourages real communication, and creates lasting memories.
Getting to Jordan
Jordan is served by several major international airlines. Students traveling from North America, Europe, and Australia can choose from reliable carriers such as Royal Jordanian, Lufthansa, and KLM. If you need assistance making travel arrangements, feel free to contact us. We are happy to offer guidance.
Recommended Airport
Most international students arrive at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman. The airport is located approximately 35 minutes from the city center and is Jordan's main international gateway.
Visa on Arrival for Most Travelers
Holders of passports from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, and several other countries are eligible to receive a visa upon arrival at the airport. This is a straightforward process and costs approximately 40 Jordanian dinars (about 56 USD). The visa is valid for 30 days.
Embassy Option
If you prefer, you may also apply for a visa in advance at a Jordanian embassy or consulate in your home country.
For Other Nationalities
If your passport is not from one of the countries listed above, please check the visa requirements with your nearest Jordanian diplomatic mission before traveling.
Land Entry and Border Crossings
While most students fly into Amman, some choose to enter Jordan by land from neighboring countries. If you plan to arrive via land border (from Israel/Palestine, Syria, Saudi Arabia, etc.), please reach out to us in advance so we can provide the latest guidelines and logistical support.
Visa Extensions and Renewals
If you plan to stay in Jordan for longer than one month, you will need to extend your visa.
Step-by-Step Visa Extension Process
Step 1: Upon arrival, obtain a 30-day visa at the airport (if you have not already received one from a consulate).
Step 2: During your first week in Jordan, our team will help you extend your visa to 90 days.
Step 3: If your stay exceeds three months, you will need to apply for another 90-day extension before the first one expires.
Step 4: After six months in Jordan, all visitors are required to exit the country unless they have been granted a residency permit. Most students plan a short trip abroad at this point (e.g., to Turkey, UAE, Lebanon) and then return to Jordan with a new visa.
Residency Permits
As a private educational institution, we do not provide student residency permits. Therefore, students staying longer than six months must leave Jordan and re-enter to renew their visa.
Budget Consideration
Please factor in the potential cost of regional travel every six months, especially if you plan to study in Jordan long-term. Affordable flights are often available via regional budget airlines.
Contact and Support
If you need assistance with your travel or visa process, contact us at:
M.ALBISHAWI@almujamedu.com
Do you want to enhance your Arabic language skills by gaining practical work experience? At Almujam Center, we provide valuable opportunities to combine language study with internships and volunteering in Jordan.
Put your Arabic to work by adding hands-on experience in community development, social services, education, business, diplomacy, media, human rights, and more. Engaging with the local community deepens your cultural understanding and enriches your regional knowledge.
Internship Eligibility and Placement
Am I Eligible for an Internship?
To qualify, you must be enrolled in Almujam's core Arabic program at least part-time. Your internship schedule must not conflict with your classes or academic responsibilities.
What Kind of Work Would I Do?
You will be placed in a field aligned with your interests, educational background, and prior experience, subject to position availability and employer acceptance.
Internship Hours and Duration
Work hours depend on agreements between you and the host organization, ensuring no conflict with your Almujam classes. Most internships require a minimum commitment of 2 months and approximately 10 hours per week.
Benefits of Interning with Almujam
Gain real-world experience, improve your Arabic proficiency, and build cross-cultural skills that enhance your employability. Internships help you stand out to future employers and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Upon successful completion, you will receive an official certificate and a personal reference from Almujam Center.
How to Apply for an Internship
Internship applications open four weeks before each term starts. To apply, submit:
A copy of your passport
A detailed CV
A statement of purpose
Any special needs or preferences
Send applications to M.ALBISHAWI@ALMUJAMEDU.COM.
Selection Process and Fees
After submitting your application and paying a refundable deposit of 100 JD, the Almujam Internship Committee will review your qualifications, language skills, leadership experience, and goals.
If matched with a placement, you pay the remaining 250 JD internship facilitation fee during your first week, totaling 350 JD. If no placement is found, your deposit is refunded.
Terms and Conditions
Actively cooperate with the Internship Committee and attend all interviews and appointments.
Accept reasonable placements based on Almujam's discretion and your preferences.
Maintain professional conduct and fulfill internship responsibilities.
Complete evaluations and assignments on time.
Withdrawals before placement commencement forfeit the deposit; withdrawals after starting forfeit all fees.
Failure to comply may result in removal from the program without refund.
Important Advice and Disclaimer
Ensure your internship commitments do not hinder your Arabic course progress. Almujam does not sponsor or endorse any host organizations, and is not responsible for incidents at internship sites.
If you know organizations interested in hosting interns, please contact us at M.ALBISHAWI@ALMUJAMEDU.COM.