Memory, Trauma, and CommemorationGlobal Maritime and Colonial HistoriesMigration, Refugees, and Integration

Khaled Hazaymeh, O. Hazaymeh

2026.4.2Geohumanities

DOI: 10.1080/2373566x.2025.2596665

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the Syrian shops’ names in Irbid city/Jordan to understand their role in expressing cultural identity, homesickness, and social and economic adaptation of Syrians in the diaspora. The research relied on a qualitative methodology that included field observation, personal interviews with shop owners, and analysis of relevant documents, with a random sample of shops. The results showed that brand names reflect feelings of nostalgia and attachment to the original place in Syria, as the names of Syrian cities and regions are used to emphasize cultural identity and strengthen the sense of belonging. These shops also contributed to enhancing social and economic interaction between Syrians and Jordanians, which added value to the local market. It recommended encouraging joint cultural activities to deepen understanding between communities, with the importance of expanding future studies to explore the cultural and economic dimensions of such geographical and humanitarian topics.

Citation format

HAZAYMEH, Khaled; HAZAYMEH, O. The geography of love: A study in geohumanities through exploring diaspora and nostalgia in syrian shops’ names in the city of irbid/jordan. Geohumanities, 2026, 12(1): 169–186.