Although a small country, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has played a significant role in the struggle for power in the Middle East, partly because of its strategic location at the crossroads of what Christians, Jews and Muslims call the Holy Land.

The death of King Hussein in 1999 signified the start of a new period of political, social and economic reform. His son King Abdullah has instituted a number of measures: a free trade agreement with the USA, the creation of a low tax Special Economic Zone centred in Aqaba, privatisation of many government-run businesses and joining the World Trade Organization.

Unlike many of its neighbours Jordan does not have oil and its economy depends largely on services and tourism. Visitors are drawn to Jordan by its historical and cultural attractions. It is possible to visit the remains of cities, old before Christ was born, trek along ancient trails and roads mentioned in the Old Testament and through a landscape that has changed little in the last 2,000 years.

Petra the ‘Rose Red City half as old as time’ is commonly called the eighth wonder of the world and a popular attraction since its appearance in the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. At Jerash, chariot racing has been re-introduced in the restored Hippodrome. Visitors can stand on the very spot where John baptised Jesus at Bethany by the Jordan, visit Herod’s fortress where Salome performed her dance that got John beheaded or take in the same view of the Promised Land that Moses saw just before he died.

It is possible to follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia from his headquarters fort at Azraq through the deserts to Wadi Rum where David Lean’s epic movie was filmed. There, travellers can trek with camels and live in tents with the local Bedouin.

Aqaba, the Jordanian royal family’s favourite holiday resort, offers some of the finest diving in the world in the Red Sea. The less energetic can simply laze on the beach or visit historical sites such as the recently discovered oldest purpose-built church in the world.

89,342 sq km (34,495 sq miles).

5.9 million (CIA estimate 2006).

66 per sq km.

Amman. Population: 2.5 million (2006 estimate).

Constitutional Monarchy since 1952.

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in the cities. French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken.

Over 94% Sunni Muslim, with Christian and Shi’i Muslim minorities.

GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 between March and October - dates vary).

Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Jordanians are proud of their Arab culture, and hospitality here is a matter of great importance. Visitors are made to feel very welcome and Jordanians are happy to act as hosts and guides, and are keen to inform tourists about their traditions and culture. Islam always plays an important role in society and it is essential that Muslim beliefs are respected. Arabic coffee will normally be served continuously during social occasions. To signal that no more is wanted, slightly tilt the cup when handing it back, otherwise it will be refilled. A small gift is quite acceptable in return for hospitality. Women are expected to dress modestly and beachwear must only be worn at the beach or poolside. Photography: It is polite to ask permission to take photographs of people and livestock; in some places photography is forbidden.

220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.

Prime Minister Dr Marouf Al-Bakhit since 2005.

King Abdullah Ibn al-Hussein al-Hashimi since 1999.