How Things Work in Jordan
Everything Tourists Need to Know
Tipping is expected in Jordan — 10% at restaurants, 1–2 JOD for hotel staff, and 5–10 JOD per day for guides.
Updated 2025-06
There is no reliable public transport network for tourists — taxis, Uber in Amman, and JETT buses are the practical options.
Updated 2025-06
Amman has excellent private hospitals, but medical facilities outside the capital are limited — travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential.
Updated 2025-06
Drugs are strictly illegal, LGBTQ+ relationships carry legal risk, and photographing military or government sites is prohibited.
Updated 2025-06
Call 911 for police, ambulance, or fire in Jordan; the dedicated tourism police line is +962 6 560 0700.
Updated 2025-06
Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required throughout Jordan, though Aqaba resort areas are more relaxed.
Updated 2025-06
Alcohol is available at licensed restaurants, hotels, and some off-licences, but is not sold everywhere — check before assuming.
Updated 2025-06
Bargaining is expected at souqs, craft shops, and for tours and taxis — but Petra entrance fees are fixed.
Updated 2025-06
Never photograph military checkpoints or government buildings — but Petra and Wadi Rum are among the world's most photogenic and freely photographable sites.
Updated 2025-06
Friday is Jordan's holy day — government offices close Friday morning and many businesses operate a Saturday–Thursday week.
Updated 2025-06
Use Uber in Amman for metered, fair-priced travel — outside the capital, always agree a price with taxi drivers before you get in.
Updated 2025-06
Do not drink tap water in Jordan — bottled water is essential everywhere, and staying hydrated is critical given the desert climate.
Updated 2025-06
The Jordanian Dinar is one of the world's most stable currencies — use Arab Bank or Cairo Amman Bank ATMs and carry cash for small vendors.
Updated 2025-06
Buy a Zain Jordan SIM at Queen Alia Airport for the best coverage — passport required, and Airalo eSIMs also work well.
Updated 2025-06
Jordan uses multiple plug types — Type B, C, F, and G — at 230V/50Hz; bring a universal adapter to be safe.
Updated 2025-06
Watch for overcharging on horse and carriage rides at Petra, fake guide fees, and taxi fare inflation — Jordan is relatively safe but these scams are consistent.
Updated 2025-06
Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists — violent crime is rare and Amman is generally very safe.
Updated 2025-06
Jordanian hospitality is exceptional — always accept offered tea or coffee, use your right hand, and be respectful during Ramadan and Friday prayers.
Updated 2025-06
English is widely spoken in Amman, Petra, and at tourist sites — but a few words of Arabic will be warmly received everywhere.
Updated 2025-06
Aqaba offers excellent Red Sea snorkelling and diving, while the Dead Sea offers a unique floating experience — but not swimming.
Updated 2025-06
Jordan drives on the right; an international licence is required, and military checkpoints are frequent — slow down and be polite.
Updated 2025-06
Jordanian food is outstanding — mansaf (the national dish), falafel, and hummus are must-tries, and local restaurants offer exceptional value.
Updated 2025-06
Remove shoes at mosques, dress modestly at all religious sites, and ask permission before entering any working mosque.
Updated 2025-06
March–May and October–November are the ideal months — summers are extremely hot at Petra and Wadi Rum, and desert nights are cold year-round.
Updated 2025-06
The Jordan Pass is the single biggest money-saver — it covers your visa fee and Petra entry, saving around 50–70 JOD depending on your Petra stay.
Updated 2025-06