Navigating the vibrant souks and modern malls of Amman in search of the perfect gift or memento can feel like a mini-adventure in itself! While the sales pressure might be a touch more relaxed than in some other popular tourist destinations (mentioning no names!), you still want to feel confident you’re discovering genuine treasures at fair prices, right? Fear not, fellow travelers! I’ve explored the city and uncovered some reliable havens where you can find exceptional gifts without breaking the bank.
Simple Pleasures: Postcards and Fridge Magnets with a Local Touch
Okay, I know, I know – postcards and fridge magnets might seem like classic tourist clichés. But hear me out! Sending a postcard with a stunning image of Petra or the Roman Theatre to a loved one back home is a tangible way to share your Jordanian experience. Plus, a thoughtfully chosen magnet can be a daily reminder of your incredible journey.
Forget the overpriced racks in tourist hotspots! Your best bet for affordable and decent-quality postcards featuring iconic Jordanian landmarks is Istiklal Library, nestled in the heart of downtown Amman. At a mere 0.25 JD per card, it’s a steal! And the best part? The central post office of Jordan Post is conveniently located right across the street, making sending them a breeze. While you’ll receive a barcode sticker instead of traditional stamps these days, the act of sending a piece of Jordan will still be cherished. Budget around 1 JD for postage, depending on the destination.
Indulge in Natural Luxury: Dead Sea Delights
The mineral-rich mud and salts of the Dead Sea are renowned for their therapeutic properties, making them a fantastic and uniquely Jordanian gift. However, a word of caution: you can’t simply scoop up mud or salt from the shores! It must be commercially packaged for you to take it home.
For the most budget-friendly and reliable selection of Dead Sea products, head to well-known retailers like Hypermax, Cozmo, or Pharmacy1. They frequently offer discounts, and their pre-packaged gift sets often provide better value than standalone purchases elsewhere. You can typically find bags of Dead Sea salt for around 2.5 JD and rejuvenating facial mud masks for about 1 JD. Personally, I love gifting mud masks as they are easy to use and a set makes a thoughtful present. I’ve had good experiences with the nourishing Mud Mask from Aqua Therapy – it cleanses effectively without leaving your skin feeling overly dry.
Now, if you’re seeking something truly luxurious and pampering, look no further than Trinitae. Their products feel like a little piece of Jordanian magic! Their Citrus salt scrub, infused with nourishing grape seed and olive oil, is simply divine and would make a truly special gift for a mother, partner, or close friend. You can find Trinitae at their counter in City Mall (near Paul Restaurant) and also at The Soap House on vibrant Rainbow Street.
Artisan Craftsmanship: Traditional Ceramics
For a gift that embodies the artistic heritage of the region, consider traditional ceramic plates and mugs. The shop Souqbiladi is a treasure trove of beautiful Palestinian ceramics. I’m particularly drawn to their charming blue floral patterns adorning bowls and mugs. Keep in mind that delivery within Jordan ranges from 6 to 12 JD.
If you’re pressed for time, Al-Afghani in Mecca Mall offers a selection of similar dishes. While you’re there, you’ll also find beautiful silver jewelry, but be mindful of the stones, as they are often not genuine.
Beyond the Usual:
Don’t forget to explore other unique Jordanian finds like fragrant soaps made from camel and goat milk – a truly local indulgence! And for a culturally significant gift, consider a traditional Palestinian black and white scarf (Kufiya).
Flavors of Jordan: Spices, Dates, and Nuts
Edible souvenirs are always a hit, and Jordan boasts some exceptional local produce. Dates are a fantastic choice as they travel well without requiring refrigeration. My personal recommendation goes to the green packs from Al Baraka farms. Their packaging is sturdy yet lightweight, which is always a bonus when packing your suitcase! With so many varieties, it can be overwhelming, so trust me and go for Medjoul or Khalas dates – you won’t be disappointed!
You can usually find Al Baraka dates in major supermarkets, but for the full experience, visit one of the Al Baraka farms showrooms where you can sample different types of dates and dried fruits before making your selection. Prices typically range from 4 to 15 JD per kilogram, depending on the quality.
When it comes to spices, two staples you absolutely must bring back are sumac and zaatar. Sumac offers a lovely tangy, slightly lemony flavor that’s perfect for salads (especially with fresh tomatoes, in my opinion!). Zaatar is an aromatic blend of sesame seeds, sumac, oregano, and thyme – essential if you ever want to recreate the delicious Jordanian breakfast of pita bread dipped in olive oil and zaatar, or even try your hand at making manaeesh.
And while you’re exploring the spice stalls, don’t forget to grab some high-quality nuts! Jordanian pistachios and almonds are particularly delicious. You’ll often find nuts and spices sold together, so don’t hesitate to sample a few, even in the supermarkets.
Happy souvenir hunting in Amman! I hope this guide helps you find the perfect reminders of your incredible time in Jordan.
My Amman Life 