📖 About Zarqa

Zarqa is Jordan's second largest city, located northeast of Amman in a strategic position along the trade routes. With approximately 1.4 million residents, this industrial hub is home to Jordan's petroleum refinery and significant manufacturing sector.

The city has grown rapidly, absorbing Palestinian and Iraqi refugees over decades. Despite being less glamorous than Amman or tourist sites, Zarqa is the backbone of Jordan's industrial economy. Zarqa represents working Jordan—industry, diversity, and the nation's economic engine.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Industry dominates—Jordan's only oil refinery is here. Manufacturing includes chemicals, food processing, and textiles. Many residents work in Amman. Military installations are nearby. The economy is solidly industrial and working-class.

Diverse Arab society—Jordanians alongside Palestinian, Iraqi, and Syrian communities. Sunni Islam predominates. Conservative values prevail. Food features Jordanian and Levantine cuisine. The culture values hard work, family, and community solidarity despite challenges.

📜 History

The Zarqa River (biblical Jabbok) has ancient significance. Modern Zarqa developed around the Hejaz Railway station. Circassian refugees settled in the 19th century.

Palestinian refugees arrived after 1948 and 1967 wars. Industrial development followed. Today Zarqa works—Jordan's industrial capital, diverse population, and the nation's manufacturing backbone.