Jordan Travel Guide

Welcome to Jordan

Jordan is a land of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, living traditions, and warm hospitality. From the rose-red city of Petra and the desert wilderness of Wadi Rum to the healing waters of the Dead Sea and the lively streets of Amman, every region offers a different side of the Kingdom.

Throughout your journey, you will often hear the phrase “Ahlan wa sahlan,” meaning “welcome.” Hospitality is deeply rooted in Jordanian culture, influenced by generations of Bedouin traditions in which welcoming and caring for guests are considered a matter of honour.

Jordan at a Glance

Official name: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Capital: Amman
Official language: Arabic
Other languages: English is widely spoken, particularly in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and major cities.
Government: Parliamentary hereditary monarchy
Head of state: His Majesty King Abdullah II
Currency: Jordanian dinar — JOD or JD
Country code: +962
Total area: Approximately 89,341 square kilometres
Time zone: GMT/UTC+3 throughout the year
Electricity: 220 volts, 50 Hz
Driving side: Right-hand side of the road
Unified emergency number: 911

Jordan’s current time zone is GMT/UTC+3 throughout the year, with no seasonal clock changes.

Highest and Lowest Points

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth’s land surface and one of Jordan’s most distinctive natural attractions.

Jordan’s highest mountain is Jabal Umm ad Dami, located in the southern Wadi Rum region, reaching approximately 1,854 metres above sea level.

Weather and the Best Time to Visit

Jordan has a generally dry climate, although temperatures and conditions vary considerably by region and elevation.

Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, usually offer comfortable conditions for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor experiences.

Summers can be hot, particularly in the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea, Aqaba, and desert regions. Amman, Petra, and higher-elevation areas are generally cooler, especially in the evenings.

Winters can be cold in Amman, Petra, Ajloun, and other elevated areas. Rain is possible, and occasional snowfall may occur in some regions.

Travelers should pack layers, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and clothing appropriate for the season and planned activities.

Safety in Jordan

Jordan is known for its welcoming culture and established tourism infrastructure. Tourist police and security personnel are present at many major attractions, airports, and border crossings.

As in any destination, travelers should follow normal precautions:

• Keep passports, money, and valuables secure.
• Use licensed transportation providers.
• Follow local instructions at archaeological and natural sites.
• Avoid restricted border and military areas.
• Check official travel advice before departure.
• Inform your tour operator of any medical or mobility requirements.

Regional conditions can change, even when tourism areas within Jordan continue operating normally. Travelers should therefore follow updates from their airline, embassy, insurance provider, and local tour operator.

Women Travelers

Women regularly visit Jordan independently, in private groups, and as part of organised tours.

There is no compulsory dress code for foreign visitors. However, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting religious places, rural communities, family homes, and traditional neighbourhoods.

Swimwear is acceptable at hotel pools, private beaches, and designated resort areas. A light scarf can also be useful when entering certain religious sites.

Solo Travelers

Jordan is a compact and sociable destination that can be explored independently or through an organised itinerary.

Solo travelers often find Jordanians approachable and willing to offer assistance. Nevertheless, transportation between remote destinations, nature reserves, deserts, and archaeological sites should be planned carefully.

A private driver, licensed guide, or organised small-group tour can provide additional comfort, local knowledge, and logistical support.

Traveling with Children

Jordan offers many memorable family experiences, including:

• Exploring Petra
• Jeep tours and camel rides in Wadi Rum
• Floating in the Dead Sea
• Visiting castles and archaeological sites
• Cooking and cultural experiences
• Glass-bottom boat trips and beach activities in Aqaba

During the hotter months, families should avoid lengthy outdoor activities during midday and ensure that children drink sufficient water, wear sun protection, and take regular breaks.

Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for family travel.

Accessible Travel

Accessibility varies throughout Jordan. Modern hotels, airports, restaurants, and newer public buildings may provide accessible facilities, while archaeological sites can involve uneven ground, steps, steep paths, sand, and long walking distances.

Petra, Jerash, desert camps, nature reserves, and historic towns each present different accessibility considerations.

Zaman Tours can design tailor-made arrangements based on the traveler’s mobility, preferred pace, accommodation requirements, and need for assistance. Accessibility requests should be discussed before confirming the itinerary.

Entry Requirements and Visas

Visa requirements depend on the traveler’s nationality, entry point, travel purpose, and length of stay.

Many eligible nationalities can obtain a single-entry visa for JOD 40 upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and certain land borders. Other nationalities must obtain approval or an electronic visa before traveling.

A visa is generally required in advance when entering through the King Hussein Bridge/Allenby Bridge. Border procedures and visa availability can change, so arrangements should always be checked before travel.

Travelers should ensure that:

• Their passport is valid for at least six months from the arrival date.
• They have confirmed whether prior visa approval is required.
• Their passport has sufficient blank pages.
• Their airline and border requirements have been checked.
• Any group visa or arrival assistance has been arranged in advance.

Depending on the nationality and itinerary, Zaman Tours may be able to provide visa guidance and arrival assistance.

Arriving by Air

Queen Alia International Airport

Queen Alia International Airport is Jordan’s principal international gateway. It is located approximately 35 kilometres from central Amman.

Private transfers, taxis, car rentals, buses, and meet-and-assist services are available.

King Hussein International Airport

King Hussein International Airport serves Aqaba and southern Jordan. Flight schedules vary according to the season and airline operations.

Amman Civil Airport

Amman Civil Airport, also known as Marka Airport, is used mainly for selected regional, private, training, and charter operations.

Airport Meet-and-Assist Services

Zaman Tours can arrange airport assistance and private transfers at Queen Alia International Airport.

Depending on the selected service and airport procedures, our representative can assist with arrival coordination, immigration guidance, luggage collection, and meeting the assigned driver.

Airport assistance must be confirmed before arrival, and the exact meeting procedure will be shared with the traveler or tour organiser.

Land Border Crossings

Jordan has land connections with Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and the Palestinian Territories.

Common passenger crossings include:

Western crossings

• King Hussein Bridge/Allenby Bridge
• Sheikh Hussein/Northern Border Crossing
• Wadi Araba/Southern Border Crossing

Syria

• Jaber Border Crossing
• Ramtha Border Crossing, primarily used for cargo and selected movements

Iraq

• Al-Karamah Border Crossing

Saudi Arabia

• Al-Omari Border Crossing
• Mudawara Border Crossing
• Al-Durra Border Crossing

Operating hours, visa availability, passenger procedures, and temporary closures can change without notice. Travelers should confirm the latest information before traveling.

Departure Procedures and Taxes

Departure taxes are normally included in international airline tickets.

Separate departure fees may apply when leaving Jordan through a land border. The amount and payment method can vary by crossing and traveler category.

Travelers should carry some Jordanian dinars when using land borders and confirm the latest requirements before departure.

Customs

Travelers must declare restricted goods and comply with Jordanian customs regulations.

Weapons, illegal drugs, and prohibited materials are strictly forbidden. Duty-free allowances and rules concerning medication, alcohol, tobacco, professional equipment, drones, and commercial goods may change.

Travelers carrying specialised equipment or prescription medication should check the requirements before departure.

Money and Payments

The official currency is the Jordanian dinar, commonly written as JOD or JD. One dinar is divided into 100 piasters or 1,000 fils.

Banks, exchange offices, and ATMs are widely available in Amman, Aqaba, Petra, Madaba, the Dead Sea area, and other major destinations.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, tourist shops, and car rental offices. However, cash is useful for:

• Small shops
• Local restaurants
• Tips
• Rural communities
• Street vendors
• Small purchases
• Remote attractions

Travelers should use licensed exchange offices and confirm any bank charges before withdrawing money from an ATM.

Working Hours

Jordan’s official weekend is Friday and Saturday.

Government departments, banks, museums, archaeological sites, restaurants, and private businesses operate according to different schedules.

Many private businesses and tourist services remain open during weekends, while government offices and banks generally operate from Sunday to Thursday.

Opening hours may change during Ramadan, public holidays, winter, and the summer tourism season. Travelers should check attraction times shortly before visiting.

Transportation

Private Transportation

Private vehicles with professional drivers are one of the most convenient ways to travel between Jordan’s major destinations.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Applications

Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in Amman and some other cities. Travelers should ensure that the taxi meter is operating or agree on the price before beginning the journey.

Public Transportation

Public buses and shared transportation connect many cities and towns, although schedules and comfort levels may vary.

Car Rental and Self-Driving

Rental cars are available at airports and in major cities.

Drivers should:

• Carry a valid driving licence.
• Confirm whether an international driving permit is required.
• Keep the rental contract and vehicle documents available.
• Follow posted speed limits.
• Avoid driving in remote areas after dark when possible.
• Allow additional time for traffic in Amman.
• Confirm insurance and collision-damage coverage.

Road signs on major routes are generally displayed in Arabic and English.

Maps and Navigation

Online navigation applications work throughout much of Jordan. However, mobile coverage may be limited in remote desert and mountain areas.

Travelers heading into Wadi Rum, nature reserves, hiking trails, or remote border regions should not depend solely on mobile navigation.

Zaman Tours provides its guests with practical destination information and can arrange guides, drivers, and local assistance where required.

Mobile Networks and Internet

Jordan’s principal mobile network operators are:

• Zain
• Orange
• Umniah

Prepaid SIM cards and mobile internet packages are available at airports, shopping centres, and authorised stores.

Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, although connection speed can vary in desert camps, remote villages, and nature reserves.

Visitors may need to present their passport when purchasing a local SIM card.

Health and Medical Services

Jordan has private and public hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and medical centres, particularly in Amman and other major cities.

Travelers should:

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
• Carry sufficient supplies of regular medication.
• Keep medicine in its original labelled packaging.
• Carry a doctor’s letter for controlled or specialised medication.
• Drink sufficient water, especially during outdoor activities.
• Use sun protection.
• Inform the tour operator of allergies or medical conditions that may affect the journey.

The unified emergency number in Jordan is 911.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

The policy should ideally cover:

• Medical treatment
• Emergency transportation
• Trip interruption
• Flight cancellation
• Lost or delayed luggage
• Adventure activities
• Existing medical conditions, where applicable

Travelers planning hiking, canyoning, diving, horse riding, desert activities, or other adventure experiences should confirm that their policy includes the relevant activity.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in Jordan and is customary within the tourism and hospitality sector.

Restaurants may add a service charge, although an additional tip may still be given for good service.

Tips are also commonly offered to:

• Guides
• Drivers
• Hotel staff
• Porters
• Camp teams
• Local experience providers
• Restaurant staff

The appropriate amount depends on the service, group size, trip duration, and level of satisfaction.

Toilets

Western-style toilets are available in most hotels, restaurants, and visitor centres.

Facilities at remote sites, roadside stops, and desert locations may be more basic. Carrying tissues and hand sanitiser is useful during longer journeys.

In many places, toilet paper should be placed in the provided waste bin rather than flushed, particularly where plumbing systems are sensitive.

Photography

Jordan offers exceptional photography opportunities, from archaeological monuments and desert landscapes to local markets and traditional communities.

Travelers should request permission before photographing local people, particularly in rural areas and private homes.

Photography may be restricted at:

• Border crossings
• Military facilities
• Government buildings
• Security checkpoints
• Certain museums
• Religious sites
• Airports and immigration areas

Professional photography, filming, drones, and large productions may require advance permits.

Culture and Local Customs

Jordanian society combines modern lifestyles with strong family and community traditions.

Visitors are encouraged to:

• Greet people politely.
• Accept hospitality respectfully.
• Ask before photographing individuals.
• Dress appropriately in traditional areas.
• Avoid public displays of anger.
• Use the right hand when offering or receiving food where practical.
• Respect private homes, religious places, and local customs.

A few Arabic phrases are always appreciated:

Ahlan wa sahlan: Welcome
Marhaba: Hello
Shukran: Thank you
Min fadlak/min fadlik: Please
Ma’a salama: Goodbye

Religion

Islam is Jordan’s official religion, and the country is also home to historic Christian communities and important Islamic and Christian religious sites.

Mosques and churches are found throughout the Kingdom, particularly in Amman, Madaba, Salt, Fuheis, Kerak, and other established communities.

Visitors of all faiths are welcomed. Respectful clothing and behaviour are expected when entering places of worship.

Dress Code

Jordan does not impose a general dress code on international visitors.

Casual clothing is acceptable in hotels, tourist areas, and major cities. More modest clothing is recommended in rural communities, traditional neighbourhoods, family homes, and religious sites.

Comfortable footwear is essential for Petra, Jerash, castles, nature reserves, and walking tours.

During summer, lightweight clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended. During winter, travelers should carry warm layers and rain protection.

Jordanian Food

Food is central to Jordanian hospitality and social life. Meals are often shared, and guests may be encouraged to eat generously—a Jordanian tradition that should be taken as a sincere compliment.

Popular dishes and flavours include:

• Mansaf
• Maqluba
• Musakhan
• Galayet bandora
• Hummus
• Mutabbal
• Falafel
• Zarb
• Sayadiyeh
• Knafeh
• Arabic coffee and mint tea

Travelers should advise Zaman Tours in advance of allergies, dietary restrictions, vegetarian preferences, or religious requirements.

Ramadan

Ramadan is the Islamic month of fasting. Many Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking between dawn and sunset.

Tourist hotels and selected restaurants usually continue serving international visitors, although operating hours may be adjusted.

Visitors should avoid eating, drinking, or smoking openly in public during fasting hours, particularly outside major tourist areas.

At sunset, families and communities gather for iftar, the meal that ends the daily fast. Ramadan evenings often feature special meals, decorations, family gatherings, cultural events, and traditional hospitality.

Public Holidays

Government departments, banks, and some businesses may close during public holidays.

Major holidays include:

• New Year’s Day
• Labour Day
• Jordan’s Independence Day
• Christmas
• Easter
• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha
• Islamic New Year
• The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

Dates of Islamic holidays change each year according to the lunar calendar.

Plan Your Journey with Zaman Tours

Whether you are visiting Jordan independently, as part of a group, or through a travel professional, Zaman Tours can assist with:

• Tailor-made itineraries
• Airport meet-and-assist
• Private transportation
• Licensed guides
• Hotel and camp reservations
• Cultural and local experiences
• Family travel
• Women-only programs
• Adventure travel
• Accessible travel arrangements
• Incentive and special-interest groups
• Border and visa guidance

Contact our team before traveling for advice based on your nationality, arrival point, itinerary, and preferred travel style.

Important Travel Notice

Visa regulations, border operating hours, entrance fees, public holidays, transportation schedules, and attraction opening times can change.

Please contact Zaman Tours or consult the relevant official authorities before finalising your journey.