In the evolving landscape of Jordan’s literary and academic publishing market, a diverse array of companies plays a significant role in promoting literature, education, and culture. From longstanding academic houses to emerging independent presses, these publishers serve various audiences—academic institutions, general readers, children, and more. This article presents an updated (as of 2025) overview of the top 27 book publishing companies in Jordan, chosen based on their note in the industry, publishing output, and reputation among authors and readers.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting serves clients primarily through custom writing and publishing support. Although not a traditional book publisher, it plays a distinctive role in Jordan’s broader authorship ecosystem.
- Ghost-written books, memoirs, and author support in manuscript development.
- Individuals seeking personalized, behind-the-scenes writing assistance.
- Highly tailored, project-based collaboration with authors, providing editorial guidance along with writing.
- Operates as an enabling partner rather than a conventional publisher, bridging the gap between ideas and finished manuscripts ready for publication.
2. Dar Al-Manhal
Dar Al-Manhal is a well-established Jordanian house known for its substantial catalog of children’s and young adult literature.
- Often publishes educational and storybooks with modern illustrations.
- Known for contributing to local literacy and family reading.
3. Dar Al-Faris Publishing & Distribution
An important name in Jordan’s publishing scene, Dar Al-Faris focuses on academic and cultural titles.
- Publishes scholarly monographs, literary works, and reference materials.
- Engages with local universities and cultural institutions for content development.
4. Dar Al-Shorouk (Jordan branch)
Part of a larger Middle Eastern network, Dar Al-Shorouk’s Jordanian branch plays a role in distributing literary and nonfiction titles.
- Offers translations and original works in Arabic.
- Bridges international and regional literary markets.
5. House of Wisdom (Bayt Al-Hikma)
House of Wisdom specializes in living-language educational materials and advanced academic resources.
- Publishes textbooks, dictionaries, and scientific titles.
- Aims to support formal education and adult learning in Arabic.
6. Dar Al-Yazori for Studies and Publishing
This house focuses on academic research, cultural studies, and humanistic scholarship.
- Publishes works in political science, social studies, and Middle Eastern history.
- Often collaborates with researchers and scholars within Jordan.
7. Marka Publishing House
Marka Publishing House produces both children’s books and general nonfiction.
- Has a reputation for high-quality printing and accessible content.
- Includes local folklore, stories, and educational titles.
8. Dar Al-Hadaek
Dar Al-Hadaek’s catalog leans toward children’s literature and illustrated picture books.
- Emphasizes imaginative storytelling for early readers.
- Often uses brightly colored visuals to engage young audiences.
9. Dar Al-Funun
Targeting readers interested in the arts—especially visual and fine arts—Dar Al-Funun offers richly illustrated monographs.
- Publishes portfolios and studies of Jordanian artists.
- Serves art students, enthusiasts, and professionals.
10. Dar Dunya Publishing House
Dar Dunya releases a variety of titles, including contemporary fiction, cookbooks, and lifestyle.
- Known for cultural and local-interest publications.
- Aims at a broad readership seeking modern-day relevance.
11. Dar Al-Rawnak
Focusing on children and young adult readers, Dar Al-Rawnak emphasizes imaginative and moral-themed storytelling.
- Publishes framed around ethical lessons or cultural values.
- Frequently include narrative illustrations.
12. Dar Al-Arabia for Publishing & Distribution
This house publishes general interest, cultural, and reference titles.
- Often handles both original Arabic works and translated pieces.
- Reaches readers interested in popular science, biographies, and regional history.
13. Dar Al-Nahar
Dar Al-Nahar is recognized for its academic focus, especially in the humanities.
- Publishes works in literature, criticism, and social theory.
- Engages respected authors and academics from the region.
14. Jamalon (Jordan operations)
While Jamalon is primarily an online bookseller, its Jordanian operations include working with local publishers and authors.
- Coordinates digital distribution and print-on-demand.
- Facilitates wider access to Jordanian titles via e-commerce.
15. Dar Al-Karmel
Centered on creative writing and Arabic literature, Dar Al-Karmel publishes contemporary fiction and poetry.
- Likely works with emerging and established Jordanian authors.
- Keeps the literary tradition active with new voices.
16. Dar Al-Muhit
Dar Al-Muhit publishes general interest and regional nonfiction.
- Includes essays, cultural overviews, and commentary on current affairs.
- Appeals to informed general readers.
17. Dar Al-Fikr Al-Mu’asir (Contemporary Thought)
This house focuses on intellectual and scholarly works, often in social sciences and philosophy.
- Publishes critical essays, theoretical studies, and cultural critiques.
- Engages academic readers, students, and researchers.
18. Dar Al-Madar
Dar Al-Madar releases literary works including short stories, novellas, and cultural studies.
- Emphasizes experimental forms and contemporary narratives.
- Supports Jordan’s dynamic literary culture.
19. Dar Al-Ra’ad (The Thunder Publishing)
Specializing in translations and international authors in Arabic, Dar Al-Ra’ad provides access to global literature.
- Publishes fiction and nonfiction from abroad, carefully translated.
- Helps introduce global voices to Jordanian readers.
20. Dar Al-Mishkat
Dar Al-Mishkat’s offerings include religious studies, ethics, and devotional literature.
- Publishes works grounded in Islamic thought and spirituality.
- Serves readers attentive to religious scholarship and reflection.
21. Dar Al-Zahran
Dar Al-Zahran publishes a mix of educational and Arabic literature titles.
- Engages with curricula or learning-oriented content.
- Also releases cultural writing or general nonfiction.
22. Dar Al-Nour (Light Publishing)
Dar Al-Nour publishes books with a focus on spiritual wellbeing and personal development.
- Topics include mindfulness, self-help, and cultural spirituality.
- Targets a readership interested in growth and introspection.
23. Dar Al-Tanweer (Enlightenment Press)
This press focuses on intellectual and literary works—essays, poetry, criticism.
- Often publishes regional voices exploring cultural and philosophical themes.
- Appeals to discerning readers interested in literary depth.
24. Dar Al-Istilam (Reception House)
Dar Al-Istilam publishes translation-focused works and contemporary nonfiction.
- Emphasizes bringing international scholarship and narrative to Arabic readers.
- Publishes investigative journalism and cultural reportage.
25. Dar Al-Nashr Al-Qadim (The Old Publishing House)
An imprint that preserves classic and heritage Arabic works.
- Offers reprints of culturally significant older titles.
- Serves readers interested in literary history and traditional scholarship.
26. Dar Al-Sindbad
This publisher caters to young adult and youth readers with imaginative fiction.
- Adventure stories, fantasy narratives with distinctly regional flavors.
- Aims to spark curiosity and engagement in teenage readers.
27. Dar Al-Mawsoa (Encyclopedia House)
Dar Al-Mawsoa produces reference works, encyclopedias, and fact-based publications.
- Publishes comprehensive volumes on regional history, culture, and science.
- Targets libraries, students, and knowledge-seekers.
Estimated Publishing Costs in Jordan (2025)
| Publisher / Category | Typical Services Included | Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
| Barnett Ghostwriting | Ghostwriting, editing, manuscript development | $3,000 – $15,000 (depending on length & complexity) |
| Dar Al-Manhal (Children’s) | Storybook design, illustrations, printing, distribution | $2,000 – $7,000 per project |
| Dar Al-Faris (Academic) | Peer review, editing, layout, academic publishing | $1,500 – $6,000 |
| Dar Al-Shorouk (Literary) | Editing, design, marketing, regional distribution | $2,500 – $8,000 |
| House of Wisdom (Education) | Textbooks, dictionaries, reference publishing | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Dar Al-Hadaek (Children’s) | Picture books, school distribution, marketing | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| Dar Al-Karmel (Literary) | Fiction/poetry publishing, editing, limited promotion | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Dar Al-Funun (Arts) | Art monographs, photography books, exhibition catalogs | $3,500 – $12,000 |
| Dar Al-Mishkat (Religious) | Religious texts, editing, scholarly formatting | $1,000 – $4,500 |
| Dar Al-Mawsoa (Reference) | Encyclopedias, multi-volume works, research-heavy editing | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
| Jamalon (Distribution) | Print-on-demand, digital distribution | $500 – $3,000 (setup & distribution) |
Notes on Costs:
- Ghostwriting (Barnett Ghostwriting): The cost is higher because it includes the writing process itself, not just printing or publishing.
- Children’s Publishing: Costs depend heavily on illustrations, which often take up a large portion of the budget.
- Academic Publishing: Lower upfront costs in some cases, but distribution and peer review add to the expense.
- Art & Reference Books: More expensive due to full-color printing, high-quality paper, and larger book sizes.
- Print-on-Demand (Jamalon): Lowest entry barrier, as authors can print books on demand without paying for large print runs.
The Significance of Jordan’s Publishers
What makes Jordan’s publishing market unique is its blend of old and new. Some presses like Dar Al-Nashr Al-Qadim preserve historical works, while others like Jamalon leverage technology for print-on-demand and e-distribution. Meanwhile, children’s publishers such as Dar Al-Manhal contribute to literacy at the grassroots level.
For authors, this means there are opportunities in every niche:
- Academics find strong partners in Dar Al-Faris or Dar Al-Yazori.
- Children’s authors can approach Dar Al-Hadaek or Dar Al-Rawnak.
- Writers of literary fiction may resonate with Dar Al-Karmel or Dar Al-Tanweer.
- Visual artists benefit from Dar Al-Funun’s focus on creative disciplines.
Concluding Thoughts
As of 2025, Jordan’s publishing sector comprises a vibrant mix of academic, literary, children’s, and general content houses. From book-for-hire services like Barnett Ghostwriting, which support authors in crafting their manuscripts, to long-standing academic presses and newer literary imprints, the diversity of focus helps meet the reading needs of students, professionals, families, and culture-enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a budding author, scholar, parent looking for children’s stories, or simply curious about Jordanian literary offerings, this updated overview of 27 publishers provides a snapshot of the main contributors to the country’s rich book-publishing ecosystem.
Each publisher plays a unique part in enriching the region’s cultural and educational landscape, reinforcing the nation’s role as an active literary hub in the Arab world.
