The Bedouin in Jordan are known for their nomadic lifestyle and rich traditions. During your trip through Southern Jordan, there is a good chance, you will meet some Bedouin yourself, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum.
In this article, you’ll learn about their history, cultural practices, and impact on Jordanian society. We’ll explore their hospitality, tents, food, and justice system and – most importantly – discover how they maintain their heritage in the modern world.
Key Takeaways
- Bedouin culture is integral to Jordan’s identity, showcasing values of resilience, hospitality, and a deep connection to the land.
- Despite modernization, Bedouins have managed to blend traditional practices with contemporary elements, maintaining their cultural heritage. Nowadays, the tourist industry plays an ever-increasing role in their lives.
- Experiencing Bedouin culture firsthand, such as through staying in traditional camps or engaging in local customs, offers a rich insight into their way of life. We suggest visiting Wadi Rum to do so.
Learn about Bedouin Culture Firsthand.
Visit the Bedouins of Wadi Rum.
Join the Bedouin experiences of Wadi Tribe crafted by local Bedouin communities – raw, authentic and immersive.
- Key Takeaways
- Visit the Bedouins of Wadi Rum.
- Who are the Bedouins?
- Bedouin Tribes in the Levant and on the Arabian Peninsula: An Overview
- Historical Background of Jordan’s Bedouin
- Bedouin Hospitality
- Bedouin Tents and Camps
- Traditional Bedouin Food
- Bedouin Justice System
- Bedouin Women: Roles and Responsibilities
- Bedouin Poetry and Oral Traditions
- Evolution of Bedouin Lifestyle
- Bedouin Communities Today
- Bedouin Heritage Preservation
- FAQs
Who are the Bedouins?
Bedouin people are nomadic people from the Middle East. They are considered to be a native population of the area. With some certainty, we can say that the Bedouin have existed in the Middle East for up to 10,000 years. The English word ‘Bedouin’ is rooted in the Arabic badawī, meaning desert dweller.
Bedouins are known for herding camels, sheep and goats. Due to the harsh environment their society originated in, they were forced to move around the vast desert of the Middle East with their families and livestock.
Over thousands of years, they adapted tribal structures and clearer distinctions between each of the Bedouin tribes arose. At the same time, many unique cultural practices such as traditional tent knitting, playing traditional instruments, cultural festivals and many other cultural practices arose.
Most Bedouins are Muslims, with a small minority adhering to the Christian faith. Muslim faith is embedded in Bedouin life and reflected in Bedouin family structures, moral and law practise.
Bedouin Tribes in the Levant and on the Arabian Peninsula: An Overview
The Bedouin territory stretches all over the Middle East and the wider Arab world including North Africa, the Levant and the Arabian Peninsula. For the sake of this article, we will focus on the Bedouin tribes of the Levant and the Arabian Peninsula.
Bedouin life and culture are integral to both regions. Today’s understanding is that the Bedouin origins lay in modern-day Syria, dating back as far as 6,000 BC. Similarly Bedouin life in Saudi Arabia is thought to have millennia-old roots. The latter tribes eventually migrated from the Arabian Peninsula to Jordan to settle in several regions of the Levantine kingdom.
Bedouin society began to build more coherent settlements and structures around 850 AD. Some centuries later, Bedouin tribes are thought to have given birth the the earliest Arab tribes of the region.
Today, the total Bedouin population is estimated to be around 25 million. However, in most countries with Bedouin tribes, clear numbers are not easy to obtain. Bedouin society continues to exist at the periphery of modern urban lifestyle, with little access to government institutions.
Historical Background of Jordan’s Bedouin
The Bedouin tribes, believed to be the backbone of Jordan’s population, have a rich history that dates back centuries. Originating from the Qahtanis and Adnanis, Bedouin tribes migrated to Jordan between the 14th and 18th centuries, bringing with them a lifestyle deeply rooted in nomadic herding and agriculture.
It is important to understand, however, that there is no coherent group of Jordanian Bedouin. Instead, there is a complex network of different Bedouin tribes in Jordan. Each of the Bedouin tribes has its own roots, history, beliefs and culture.
In Jordan, Bedouin people can roughly be categorised as Bani Hasan, Bani Sakher, Banu Last and Banu Al-Huwaytat. These descriptors describe the different regions where Jordan’s Bedouin live rather than describing coherent cultures or peoples. It is said that the Western Bedouin herd sheep and goats and the Eastern Bedouin living east of the Desert Highways are camel breeders.
In this article, we will use the Al-Huwaytat as our main point of reference. The Al-Huwaytat of Jordan are mainly settled in the Wadi Rum desert in the South of Jordan close to the Saudi-Arabian border.
In Wadi Rum, the Al Huwaytat still obey a tribal structure and often refuse to adapt a fully Western lifestyle. Additionally, their cultural practices and familial ties still show a deep connection to the Arabian homeland. Their black goat hair tents are historically routed in Saudi Arabia and families still have relatives in the respective countries.
In modern times, however, the restricted freedom of movement of Bedouins is increasingly threatening their traditional nomadic lifestyle. Although Bedouin culture has been integral to Jordanian and Arab society, communities have seen little recognition by local governments and have suffered oppression at times.
Despite the pressures of modernisation, many Bedouins have retained traditional Bedouin cultures, blending it with contemporary elements. In Wadi Rum, for example, many Bedouins follow are sort-of semi-nomadic lifestyle between the settlement of Wadi Rum Village and the camps in the Wadi Rum desert.
Bedouin Hospitality
Hospitality in Bedouin culture is not merely a custom but a deeply ingrained obligation. It is a reflection of their values and identity, where generosity towards guests is paramount. The term ‘dhiyaafa’ encapsulates this ethos, symbolizing the high regard in which hospitality is held.
To the Bedouin, it is customary for guests to stay in a Bedouin home for up to three days without being questioned, a practice that underscores the importance of treating visitors with utmost respect and warmth.
When you step into a Bedouin tent, you are immediately welcomed with tea, a gesture that signifies hospitality and respect. The sweet Bedouin tea is a staple and we are willing to bet that will will drink no less than 10 of those during your time in Jordan.
The ritual of serving coffee follows, often accompanied by hearty meals that showcase the Bedouin’s culinary traditions. This act of sharing food and drink is not just about sustenance but about forging connections and honoring the guest.
This profound sense of community is evident in every interaction, where the host’s honor is intertwined with the guest’s satisfaction. The meticulous preparation and presentation of coffee, for instance, are laden with cultural significance, where even the slightest deviation from tradition can be seen as a breach of etiquette.
Bedouin Tents and Camps
The iconic black goat-hair tents of the Bedouin, known as ‘houses of hair’, are a symbol of their nomadic heritage. These tents, called ‘bayt al-shar’, are meticulously crafted from materials sourced from goats and sheep, providing both durability and insulation from the desert’s extreme temperatures.
Inside, the tents are adorned with vibrant carpets, mattresses, and pillows, creating a cozy and welcoming environment.
A traditional Bedouin tent is divided into distinct areas to facilitate social interactions while maintaining privacy.There are separate sections for guests and women, often marked by a small screen.
This layout ensures that guests are treated with respect and that social norms are upheld. The guest area, in particular, is designed to be inviting, with crafts for sale and communal spaces for serving tea or coffee.
While many Bedouins have adopted a hybrid lifestyle, balancing time between urban environments with proper houses and traditional camps in the desert, the essence of their nomadic life remains.
Modern Bedouin camps blend tradition with contemporary conveniences, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has adapted yet remained true to its roots. This process of modernisation is most apparent in Bedouin desert camps built for tourists in places such as Wadi Rum, offering important amenities such as water and electricity.
Traditional Bedouin Food
Traditional Bedouin food is a culinary journey that reflects their resourcefulness and connection to the land. One of the most renowned dishes is Zarb, an underground oven cooking method where marinated meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in a buried pit.
This method, which utilizes natural desert resources, results in flavors that are both rich and unique. Modern interpretations of Zarb can be found in urban areas, where the dish is cooked in home ovens or outdoor pits, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary culinary practices.
In Wadi Rum, however, the Bedouin still prepare the Zarb underground, digging the fire pit in the late afternoon with the chicken and vegetables being ready for serving at dinner time.
Another staple of Bedouin cuisine is Mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, made with lamb, rice, and a tangy yogurt sauce. This dish, often served during special occasions, embodies the essence of Bedouin hospitality and culinary heritage. This dish is renowned for being especially heavy, with one Mansaf restaurant even offering beds to take a rest break after your meal.
Interested in Bedouin food? We wrote a full guide on the topic. Read it now.
Bedouin Justice System
The Bedouin justice system is a unique blend of traditional customs and modern legal practices. It operates alongside the state judicial system, allowing for a flexible approach to conflict resolution.
Bedouin tribunal processes often precede state legal proceedings, influencing the outcomes of civil court cases. This system is not strictly codified but is based on customary practices that vary between tribes.
The primary aim of the Bedouin justice system is to restore social relations rather than to punish individuals. This approach is evident in practices like jalwa, or forced migration, which is employed to prevent further conflict. In cases of severe offenses, tribal leaders can mandate the exile of offenders and their families, maintaining social stability within the community.
Women’s testimonies are respected in Bedouin judicial customs, with their words often sufficient to resolve disputes. This respect for women’s integrity is a notable aspect of the Bedouin legal framework, which emphasises the role of tribal leaders in maintaining order and justice.
Bedouin Women: Roles and Responsibilities
Bedouin women have historically played vital roles in their communities, contributing to agriculture, livestock herding, and family management. Their responsibilities included tasks such as tent-making, weaving large pieces of cloth from sheep wool and camel hair, and producing dairy products and textiles for sale. These contributions were essential to the nomadic lifestyle, showcasing the women’s resourcefulness and resilience.
Over time, the roles of Bedouin women have evolved, with changes in lifestyle and economic opportunities leading to a more limited focus on child-rearing and household duties. Despite these shifts, efforts to preserve Bedouin culture have provided women with new opportunities in handicrafts and community workshops.
In Bedouin culture, respect towards women is strictly commanded. Any offences in this respect, will not be tolerated. This applies to member of Bedouin communities and visitors alike. Upon marriage, a dowry for the bride is still common practice among Bedouin tribes.
Bedouin Poetry and Oral Traditions
Oral poetry, also known as Nabati poetry, holds a special place in the culture of the Bedouins. This art form is highly valued and celebrated within their communities. It is recited in vernacular dialects and serves multiple purposes, from artistic expression to conveying information and social control.
Poets hold a highly regarded position in Bedouin society, reflecting the cultural significance of their role. While being a male-dominated field, there is also a number of female Bedouin poets that have made a name for themselves.
Bedouin traditions also include unique storytelling and music, which preserve their heritage and cultural practices. These oral traditions are a testament to the Bedouins’ deep connection to their history and identity, offering insights into their values, beliefs, and way of life.
Evolution of Bedouin Lifestyle
The Bedouin lifestyle has undergone significant changes over the years, transitioning from a fully nomadic existence to a more hybrid approach. Modern restrictions of movement have made it hard, if not impossible, to maintain the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Today, many Bedouins have forfeited their traditional lifestyle in the face of many challenges to become urban Bedouin. Additionally, many Bedouins in Jordan live in permanent houses while maintaining traditional tents for part of the year. This hybrid lifestyle reflects both the influence of modernization and the desire to preserve their nomadic heritage.
This change is especially apparent in the Wadi Rum desert where many Bedouin families alternate between their family houses in the Bedouin settlement of Wadi Rum Village and their desert camps deep in the desert.
Modern technology, such as smartphones and electricity, has also made its way into Bedouin life, creating a blend of traditional and contemporary living. In desert camps, electricity is generated via solar panels, phone signal and stationary internet access can be found in some places, too.
Modernisation poses numerous challenges for Bedouins in maintaining their traditional practices. Along with neglect by the Jordanian government and arbitrary borders separating Bedouin tribes, environmental and social pressures have made it difficult for some to continue their nomadic lifestyle.
Despite these changes, nomadic and tribal traditions remain an important part of Bedouin life, reflecting their enduring connection to the land. Recently, tourism has begun to serve as the Bedouins’ main source of income, allowing them to stay on their homelands instead of moving to larger cities to find work there.
Bedouin Communities Today
Today, nomadic Bedouin communities in Jordan face the challenge of balancing tradition and modernity. While the Jordanian government has acknowledged their cultural contributions, providing education, housing and health services to support their communities, they struggle to make a living under a system threatening their nomadic identity.
Bedouins are determined to maintain their traditional lifestyle, resisting the pressures of urbanization. Modern technology and social media have revitalized interest in Nabati poetry, enabling wider sharing and engagement with this oral tradition. The tourist industry serves as vehicle to generate vital income and spreading the word about Bedouin culture, history and traditions.
Bedouin Heritage Preservation
In recent years, tourism initiatives, cultural centers and educational programs have increasingly been established to showcase traditional Bedouin craftsmanship and practices.
The Bani Hamida Weaving Centre, for instance, offers visitors a chance to purchase handmade carpets, reflecting the artistry and skill of Bedouin women. Further in the South, the Bedouins living in Wadi Rum, have started leaning more heavily into tourism, showcasing Bedouin life in traditional Bedouin camps and more modern hotels alike.
These preservation efforts not only highlight the importance of Bedouin culture but also provide economic opportunities for Bedouin communities. Promoting sustainable practices and cultural tourism helps Bedouins maintain their heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges.
Therefore, we encourage you to book a stay in a traditional Bedouin desert camps to walk in the footsteps of the desert dwellers.
Visit Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum, with its stunning desert landscape and unique rock formations, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Known for its red sands and significant historical sites, including Lawrence’s Spring and the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, Wadi Rum offers a glimpse into the past and the beauty of the desert.
Visit Wadi Rum during fall and spring and take part in economical guided tours to explore archaeological sites, natural wonders, and the rich cultural heritage of the Bedouins. Make sure to stay in the Wadi Rum desert for at least a night to experience sleeping in a traditional Bedouin tent. While being basic, these desert camps offer everything you will need during your stay, along with some outstanding food.
Camping in Wadi Rum is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to sleep under the stars and experience the desert’s unique flora and fauna. Popular nightly activities are stargazing and spending a night under the stars in some of the most remote areas of the desert.
Experience Bedouin Culture Firsthand
For those eager to dive deep into Bedouin culture, there are numerous opportunities to experience their way of life firsthand in the Wadi Rum desert. Staying overnight in a Bedouin-style camp offers a unique glimpse into their traditions – if you do it right.
The onset of Bedouin tourism has brought a wide range of offers with it. Bubble tents, for example, have taken social media by storm, recently. While these might make for a luxurious experience and instagrammable photos, werecommend staying in a traditional Bedouin desert camp for a more authentic experience.
There is several Beoduin camps in Wadi Rum, that can give you exactly that. Our recommendations are Desert Guide Camp and Desert Tree Camp, both run by members of the Al-Zalabiah family. For a worry-free all-inclusive deserts experience, we recommend getting familiar with our initiative aiming to drive more tourism towards authentic Bedouin programs highlighting their cultural heritage.
In these Bedouin camps, visitors are often greeted with warm hospitality, starting with a cup of tea and traditional Bedouin food, creating an authentic cultural exchange. On top, they offer various guided tours in English that include exploring archaeological sites and natural wonders along with insightful history lessons.
Exploring the rich heritage of the Bedouin in Jordan offers a journey through time, showcasing a unique blend of tradition and modernity. From their deep-rooted values of hospitality and community to the evolving roles of Bedouin women and the preservation of their cultural practices, every aspect of Bedouin life is a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Whether you’re visiting Wadi Rum for the day or staying in a traditional Bedouin camp, the experiences you gain will provide a deeper appreciation for these desert dwellers’ way of life and their enduring legacy. Make the best of your stay and go for an authentic all-inclusive experience with Wadi Tribe.
FAQs
Who are the Bedouins in Jordan?
The Bedouins in Jordan are nomadic desert dwellers renowned for their warm hospitality and adaptability to harsh desert conditions. Experiencing their culture offers a unique glimpse into their welcoming way of life.
Do Bedouin still live in Petra?
The Bedouins in Petra, primarily from the Liyathnah tribe, are understood to have century-old ties to the region around Wadi Musa and Petra. Additionally, people of the Bedul tribe are said to have settled there for about 200 years and claim descent from the ancient Nabataeans and sometimes Jews.
Are there Bedouins in Jordan?
Yes, there are Bedouins in Jordan. The modern population of Bedouin people in Jordan is estimated to be around 1,3 and 4 million. The discrepancy in numbers is due to the poor records of nomadic Bedouins and the increasing blending into Arab and Jordanian society of urban Bedouins.
Are Bedouins Muslims?
Yes, most Bedouins adhere to the Muslim faith. Bedouin cultures is heavily influenced by Muslim teaching and moral. However, it is important to note that there is also a small number of Christian Bedouin tribes. Some also claim descendance of Jewish communities (see Bedul tribes).
Are Bedouin people friendly?
Yes, Bedouin people are considered friendly and hospitable. Originating in Muslim teaching, Bedouins ethos comprises courage and hospitality towards strangers. Today, many Bedouins work in the tourism sector, offering Bedouin camp experiences in desert environments such as the Wadi Rum desert.
Wadi Tribe 