How to Negotiate When Buying in Jordan’s Markets
Buying in Jordan’s Markets
Shopping in Jordan’s colorful markets and souqs is more than just buying—it’s an experience full of culture, tradition, and friendly exchanges. Whether you are exploring Amman’s Downtown Souq or Aqaba’s bazaars, bargaining is a natural part of the process. Tourists are often expected to negotiate, and knowing a few Arabic phrases will make your shopping experience smoother, friendlier, and even more fun.
Why Negotiation Matters in Jordan
- Cultural tradition – Bargaining is common and part of the fun.
- Better prices – Starting with a lower offer usually gets you a fair deal.
- Connection with locals – Using Arabic phrases builds trust and respect.
- Tourist tip – Always smile, stay polite, and enjoy the conversation.
Tips for Negotiating in the Souq
- Start lower than the asked price but remain respectful.
- Use friendly phrases like “too expensive” or “make it cheaper.”
- Don’t rush—negotiation is often a relaxed back-and-forth.
- Be willing to walk away—sometimes the seller calls you back with a better price.
- Learn key Arabic words—it makes bargaining smoother and shows effort.
Useful Arabic Phrases for Negotiating
Here are 25 common Arabic phrases to use when shopping in Jordan.
| English Phrase | Pronunciation | Arabic (Meaning) |
|---|---|---|
| How much is this? | Kam haadha? | كم هذا؟ |
| Too expensive | Ghali ktiir | غالي كثير |
| Can you make it cheaper? | Mumkin tkhafed shway? | ممكن تخفض شوي؟ |
| Give me a better price | Aatini se’r ahsan | أعطِني سعر أحسن |
| What’s your last price? | Kam aakhir se’r? | كم آخر سعر؟ |
| I am just looking | Ana bas batfarraj | أنا بس بتفرج |
| I don’t have much money | Ma’andi masari ktiir | ما عندي مصاري كثير |
| Can you give me discount? | Mumkin khasm? | ممكن خصم؟ |
| That’s too much | Hada kteer | هذا كثير |
| I saw it cheaper elsewhere | Shufto arkhass makan tani | شفته أرخص مكان ثاني |
| Make it fair | Khaleeh ma’qool | خليه معقول |
| What about this price? | Shou ra’yak b-hatha? | شو رأيك بهاذا؟ |
| Add a little more | Zid shway | زد شوي |
| That’s my last offer | Hatha aakhir 3ardi | هذا آخر عرضي |
| Can I buy two for less? | Mumkin ithnayn arkhass? | ممكن اثنين أرخص؟ |
| I’m a tourist | Ana sa’iH | أنا سائح |
| I like this | Ana a’jabni hatha | أنا عجبني هذا |
| Do you have something cheaper? | Indak ishi arkhass? | عندك إشي أرخص؟ |
| I’ll think about it | Bafakker shway | بفكر شوي |
| I’ll come back later | Barja’ ba’den | برجع بعدين |
| I’ll take it | Bakhodoh | باخده |
| Too much for me | Gali 3alay | غالي علي |
| Can you include a gift? | Mumkin hdiye ma’oh? | ممكن هدية معه؟ |
| Give me local price | Aatini se’r ahali | أعطِني سعر أهالي |
| Thank you, my friend | Shukran ya sadeeq | شكرا يا صديق |
Final Thoughts
Negotiating in Jordan’s markets is about respect, patience, and enjoyment. Sellers expect bargaining, so don’t be shy. Use a few of the Arabic phrases above, smile, and you’ll likely get a fair deal along with a memorable cultural exchange. Whether you’re buying handmade crafts in Petra, spices in Amman, or souvenirs in Aqaba, bargaining is part of the authentic Jordanian experience.
