- “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962): This epic historical drama, directed by David Lean, showcases the life of T.E. Lawrence during World War I. It includes scenes filmed in Wadi Rum, a beautiful desert landscape in Jordan.
- “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989): Part of the iconic Indiana Jones series, this adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg features the search for the Holy Grail. Some scenes were shot in Petra, Jordan’s ancient city carved into red sandstone cliffs, providing backdrops.
- “Red Sea Diving Resort” (2019): Based on true events, this Netflix movie tells the story of a group of international agents who establish a fake diving resort in Sudan to rescue Ethiopian Jewish refugees. It was set and filmed in Aqaba, a seaside city in Jordan.
- “The Hurt Locker” (2008): Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this intense war drama focuses on an explosive ordnance disposal team during the Iraq War. Some scenes were shot in Jordan, standing in for Iraq, due to its similar landscape and architecture.
- “Theeb” (2014): This critically acclaimed Jordanian film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Set in the Arabian Desert during World War I, it follows a young Bedouin boy’s journey. Much of it was filmed in the Wadi Rum area.
- “Mornings in Jenin” by Susan Abulhawa: This powerful novel tells the story of a Palestinian family living in Jenin refugee camp during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The setting in Jordan is significant as many Palestinians sought refuge there during the conflict.
- “Levantine” by Anouar Alhimeri: This novel is set in the city of Amman and follows the life of Bassem, a young man who navigates relationships, politics, and personal growth in modern-day Jordan.
- “Najwa” by Ulfat Idilbi: This novel takes place during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and tells the story of Najwa, a young Syrian woman who finds refuge in Jordan. It offers a rich portrayal of the experiences of Palestinian and Syrian refugees.
- “The Language of Baklava: A Memoir” by Diana Abu-Jaber: Though not a traditional novel, this memoir transports the reader to Jordan through the author’s vivid storytelling. Diana Abu-Jaber explores her multicultural upbringing, discussing her experiences and family traditions.
- “Pillars of Salt” by Fadia Faqir: Set in both Jordan and England, this novel follows the lives of two Bedouin sisters from Jordan who confront traditions, patriarchy, and their struggle for independence.
WANDERLIST: Jordan in books and on film
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