Practical Information

Entry, visas and the Jordan Pass

Citizens of many countries can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and at several land crossings, while some nationalities need to apply in advance. Your passport should normally be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival. Because visa rules depend on nationality and can change, check the latest information with official Jordanian government sources or a Jordanian embassy before travelling.

Many visitors buy the Jordan Pass, an official tourism package purchased online before arrival. It includes entry to more than 40 attractions, among them Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum and many museums and castles. Under its conditions, which include a minimum length of stay in the country, the pass can also cover the cost of the tourist entry visa. Read the current terms on the official website before buying.

Money and payments

The currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Banks and cash machines are widely available in cities and larger towns, and money exchange offices are common in Amman, Aqaba and other tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets and shopping centres, and contactless payment is increasingly common.

Cash is still needed for taxis, small shops, markets, street food and some rural guesthouses, so it is wise to carry some small notes and coins. Tipping is customary: around 10 percent is usual in restaurants if service is not already included, and small tips are appreciated by guides, drivers, hotel staff and porters. Bargaining is normal in souvenir markets but not in supermarkets or most shops with fixed prices.

Staying connected

Arabic is the official language, and English is widely understood in hotels, restaurants, tourist sites and cities. Road signs on main routes and many shop signs use both languages. Outside the main tourist areas, fewer people may speak English, but most will try hard to help. Learning a few Arabic greetings is appreciated and helps to start friendly conversations.

Prepaid SIM cards and data packages are easy to buy at the airport and in mobile phone shops from the main operators; a passport is required to register a SIM card. Mobile coverage is good in cities and along main roads, though it can be weak in deep valleys and remote desert areas. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés.

Safety and well-being

Jordan is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination, and visitors often comment on the friendliness of the people. As in any country, use normal care with belongings in crowded places, and keep copies of important documents. Follow the instructions of guides, rangers and site staff, especially when hiking, swimming or visiting desert areas. In an emergency, dial 911.

Pharmacies are found in every town, and pharmacists often speak English. Amman and other large cities have well-equipped private and public hospitals. Travel insurance that covers medical care is strongly recommended. Most visitors drink bottled or filtered water, which is sold everywhere, and use sunscreen and drink water regularly to cope with the strong sun and dry air.

Weekends, Ramadan and local rhythms

The official weekend in Jordan is Friday and Saturday. Friday is the main day of rest and congregational prayer, so many shops and offices open later or close around midday prayers, while restaurants, malls and tourist sites usually remain open. Sunday is a normal working day. Public holidays based on the Islamic calendar move earlier by about eleven days each year.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Visitors are not expected to fast, but it is respectful to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants in tourist areas and hotels continue to serve food. Working hours are shorter, and cities come to life after sunset, when families break the fast and streets fill with people.