Mansaf is the most distinctive Jordanian dish, and it's the national dish of Jordan, thus Mansaf on the menu is the greatest symbol in Jordanian culture for generosity. Mansaf is associated with a traditional Jordanian culture based on an agro-pastoral lifestyle in which meat and yogurt are readily available. Mansaf is served on special occasions such as weddings, births and graduations, or to honor a guest, and on major holidays such as Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Christmas Day, Easter and Jordan's Independence Day. It is traditionally eaten collectively from a large platter in the Bedouin and Rural style, standing around the platter with the left hand behind the back and using the right hand instead of utensils. Al Karak is widely accepted by citizens as the mansaf "capital" of Jordan.

Mansaf is also eaten in Palestine, but is considered a regular dish and not something holiday worthy.