Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar, type C, D, G, and J plugs and 911 for emergencies. Jordan is generally considered a safe and welcoming country for tourists.
Emergency Numbers
How safe is Jordan?
- Very Safe
- Generally Safe
- Exercise Caution
- High Risk
- Dangerous
Jordan is generally considered a safe and welcoming country for tourists. Major tourist sites are well-protected. While serious crime is rare, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, especially markets. Exercise standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Advisories (5)
Scams
- Taxi overcharging: Always negotiate fares before starting your journey or insist on using the meter. Ride-hailing apps are a good alternative.
- Fake guides at historical sites: Only hire official, licensed guides, especially at popular attractions like Petra and Jerash.
- Persistent vendors: Expect vendors in souks (markets) to be persistent. A polite but firm 'no thank you' (La' shukran) is usually sufficient.
Warnings
- Avoid border areas with Syria and Iraq due to ongoing regional instability. Monitor local news and official travel advisories.
- Demonstrations or protests can occur, particularly after Friday prayers. Avoid large gatherings and political rallies.
Practical Info
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Power Plug
Type C, D, G, and J
Types C, D, G, J (most common are C, D, G). It's advisable to carry a universal adapter.
See the sockets
Tipping
Tipping is customary and appreciated. In restaurants, 5-10% for good service is standard. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common. Small tips (1-2 JOD) are appreciated for hotel porters and housekeeping. Tour guides usually expect 5-10 JOD per person per day.
SIM / Data
Local SIM cards are readily available at Amman's Queen Alia International Airport and in major cities from providers like Zain, Orange, and Umniah. You will need your passport for registration. Data packages are generally affordable and offer good coverage.
Visa
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Jordan. Visas can often be obtained upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport (Amman) and some land borders, or in advance from a Jordanian embassy or consulate. It's recommended to check specific requirements based on your nationality prior to travel.
Driving Side
Right-hand side
How do you get around Jordan?
Public Transport
Within cities like Amman, public transport mainly consists of local buses and shared taxis (servees). Buses can be crowded and challenging for non-Arabic speakers. Shared taxis are a common and affordable option, operating on fixed routes. For a more comfortable experience, ride-hailing apps are recommended.
Ride-hailing
- Careem
- Uber
Intercity
JETT buses offer comfortable and reliable services connecting major cities and tourist destinations (e.g., Amman to Petra, Aqaba). Private taxis can be hired for longer distances but are more expensive. Renting a car is a popular option for flexibility, especially for exploring sites like Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and the Desert Castles.
Culture and customs
Customs
- Shake hands with men upon greeting; for women, it's best to wait for them to offer their hand first.
- Accept offers of tea or coffee, as refusing can be considered impolite and accepting is a sign of respect for hospitality.
- Always use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
- Remove your shoes when entering a private home or a mosque.
- Avoid public displays of affection, as Jordan is a conservative society.
Dress Code
Modest dress is recommended, especially for women. Shoulders and knees should be covered. While not strictly enforced for tourists in all areas, dressing conservatively shows respect for local customs. When visiting religious sites, women will often be required to cover their hair with a scarf.
Religious Etiquette
When visiting mosques or religious sites, dress conservatively (shoulders, knees, and often hair for women covered). Be quiet and respectful, and avoid walking in front of people who are praying. Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Common Phrases
- MarhabaHello
- ShukranThank you
- Na'amYes
- La'No
- Min Fadlik (to a woman) / Min Fadlak (to a man)Please
- AfwanYou're welcome / Excuse me
Highlights
Sports & Recreation
Football (soccer)
Football is the most popular sport in Jordan, with passionate local leagues and a strong national team following. Basketball also enjoys significant popularity. For recreation, hiking, canyoning (especially in Wadi Mujib), diving and snorkeling in Aqaba's Red Sea reefs, and desert safaris in Wadi Rum are major attractions for both locals and tourists.
National Festivals
- Varies (follows the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Fitr
Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It's a joyous celebration with family gatherings, special prayers, feasts, and gift-giving.
- Varies (follows the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Adha
The 'Festival of Sacrifice' commemorates Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son. It involves prayers, charity, and sharing meals with family and the needy.
- May 25
Independence Day
Celebrates Jordan's independence from the British Mandate in 1946. Marked by parades, national ceremonies, and festivities across the country.
- Typically July/August (annual)
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
An annual festival held in the ancient Roman city of Jerash, featuring local and international music, dance, theater, and traditional crafts performances within the historic ruins.
Cities in Jordan
Planning Jordan?
Try a ready-made trip first.
Open the demo trip with no sign-up: Barcelona on your own, or Rome, Florence and Venice as a group. Then plan Jordan your way.