Situated in the Middle East and surrounded by countries including Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Israel and the West Bank, Jordan’s position within the region has long been debated. In particular, many people have questioned whether this small country borders the Mediterranean Sea. While some believe it does, there are others who disagree.
In order to find an answer to this question, let us look at some important facts about Jordan’s geography. First of all, the country has a total area of 89,342 square kilometers and it is bordered by Iraq in the northeast, Saudi Arabia in the south, Syria in the northwest, Israel and the West Bank in the west, and Jordan’s only maritime border is the Red Sea in the south-west. The eastern border of Jordan is made up of the Jordan River and a small section of the Dead Sea.
When it comes to the Mediterranean Sea, the closest Jordanian city to it is Aqaba, a port city located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. But, even though Aqaba is geographically close to the Mediterranean Sea, Jordan does not have any direct border with it. In fact, the only countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea in the Middle East are Israel, Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey.
Despite this lack of an official border, Jordan could still be considered to have a connection with the Mediterranean Sea in certain respects. For instance, it is a relatively wealthy country by Middle Eastern standards and due to its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, it has a strong cultural and economic cultural link with it. Furthermore, Jordan’s major ports – Aqaba and the King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba – are located close to the Mediterranean Sea.
Nevertheless, the fact remains that Jordan does not border the Mediterranean Sea and many experts argue that this has had both positive and negative implications for the country. On the positive side, it has enabled Jordan to remain largely out of conflict that has frequently broken out in the region. On the other hand, it has meant that Jordan has been excluded from the major economic activities that have been undertaken in the area.
It is clear then, that while Jordan does not border the Mediterranean Sea, it still has a connection to it in certain respects. Nevertheless, this lack of a direct border has had both positive and negative implications for the country and it is likely that this lack of connection will remain for the foreseeable future.
Geography and Climate
Geographically, Jordan is strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. The country is largely desert and comprises mainly of the eastern bank of the Jordan River, the Arabah Valley, the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. Jordan has an arid climate and receives very little rainfall, with the average annual precipitation ranging between 1 and 5 inches. Winters in the country are generally mild and dry, while summers tend to be hot and humid.
Jordan is home to some of the oldest cities in the world such as Jerash, Amman, and Petra. The area is also known for its diverse landscapes which range from the stunning mountains of the Jordanian Highlands to the sharp cliff of Wadi Rum and the calm waters of the Red Sea.
Jordan is also home to a number of protected areas including the Dana Biosphere Reserve and the Mujib Nature Reserve, both designated as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. The Dana Biosphere Reserve is considered to be the largest of its kind in the country, covering some 660 square kilometers.
An important sight in Jordan is the Dead Sea which is precisely 422 meters below the Mediterranean Sea Level. The Dead Sea both offers a fantastic vista and plenty of therapeutic benefits. Due to its unique combination of salts and minerals, Dead Sea minerals are renowned for their therapeutic effects and are used in many spa treatments.
Population and Economy
Jordan is home to around 9.8 million people, most of whom live in the country’s cities including Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid. The majority of the population is of Arab descent, though there is also a significant number of Armenians and Circassians as well as a small minority of Bedouins. Arabic is the country’s official language, though English is widely spoken.
The economy of Jordan is largely based on services such as tourism and financial services, as well as on its strong agricultural sector. The country is particularly known for its production of olive oil, which is exported to countries around the world. Other important industries in the country include manufacturing, chemicals, and the mining sector. In terms of foreign trade, significant exports from Jordan are oranges, tomatoes and petroleum-based products.
The Jordanian government also plays an important role in the country’s economy. It has been active in encouraging foreign investment as well as in implementing economic reforms in order to reduce unemployment and improve living standards. The government also provides support for businesses, particularly in the form of loans and tax incentives.
Culture and Tourism
Jordan is a deeply diverse country and its culture is an amalgamation of its various cultural influences, most notably those of its Arab and Islamic heritage. Despite its troubled region, the country is known as a beacon of peace and tolerance and is renowned for its hospitality and acceptance of different cultures. This is evident in the country’s museums and galleries, which showcase centuries-old artifacts and artworks from around the world.
As a result, tourism is a very important sector in the Jordanian economy and the country is home to some of the world’s most incredible sights. Some of the most popular destinations in Jordan include the ancient city of Petra, the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, the Roman ruins of Jerash, and the Dead Sea. The country is also home to numerous religious sites such as the biblical Mount Nebo and the Al-Khazneh temple in Petra.
Jordan also offers a wealth of activities for adventurers, from birdwatching and horse riding to rock climbing and scuba diving. The country also has some of the world’s finest spas and health centers, offering a range of therapeutic treatments and activities such as yoga, meditation, and hydrotherapy. With its combination of stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, Jordan is a must-visit destination.
Rights and Social Issues
Jordan is a constitutional monarchy and is a relatively stable country. Nevertheless, corruption and inequality remain major issues and the country continues to struggle with gender and social issues. In particular, Jordan is plagued by gender discrimination and gender-based violence, with women often facing obstacles to accessing employment and the decision-making process.
Despite the fact that Jordan has a high literacy rate, access to education remains unequal with many students dropping out of school, especially girls. Furthermore, the school system is still largely outdated, with many teachers lacking the training and skills necessary to properly teach students and provide them with the necessary resources for their development.
In addition, health care is also a major issue in Jordan, with many people lacking access to adequate medical care and health care services. The country also has a high rate of unemployment and poverty, with over 15% of the population living below the poverty line. These social issues are further exacerbated by the influx of refugees from the conflict in neighboring Syria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that despite not having an official border with the Mediterranean Sea, Jordan still has a connection to it in certain respects. This lack of a direct border has had both positive and negative implications for the country and it is likely that this lack of connection will remain for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, Jordan is also home to some of the most amazing sights and attractions in the world, as well as a unique culture and diverse population. Nevertheless, the country continues to struggle with issues such as poverty, gender discrimination and unequal access to education and health care. It is hoped that these problems can be addressed in the near future in order to ensure a brighter future for the Jordanian people.
