How Does Alcohol Rules Work in Jordan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Alcohol is available at licensed restaurants, hotels, and some off-licences, but is not sold everywhere — check before assuming.
2What You Need to Know
Jordan is relatively liberal by Middle Eastern standards regarding alcohol. Licensed hotels, tourist-oriented restaurants, and some supermarkets and off-licences stock beer and spirits. Local beers include Amstel (brewed locally), Petra Beer, and the craft Carakale brand — all are worth trying. Alcohol is not available at most local neighbourhood restaurants or traditional eateries. The legal drinking age is 18. During Ramadan, many licensed venues restrict or suspend alcohol sales, particularly during daylight hours. Some venues reduce service on Fridays. Public drinking on streets is not acceptable.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Ask your hotel concierge to confirm which restaurants serve alcohol in your area — availability is less predictable than in Western countries
- 2Carakale is Jordan's first craft brewery and produces excellent ales — look for it at Amman's better bars and restaurants
- 3Stock up at a licensed off-licence in Amman or Aqaba if travelling to Petra or Wadi Rum where alcohol availability is very limited
Important Warning
During Ramadan, alcohol availability drops sharply at many licensed venues. Plan accordingly and be respectful of the significance of the month to local communities.
How does this compare?
Alcohol Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Alcohol is only legal at licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars. Drinking in public is illegal. Legal age is 21. Ramadan has extra restrictions.
Alcohol is available at licensed hotels, tourist restaurants, and specialist shops — but not at most local eateries.
Alcohol is available at licensed hotels, tourist restaurants, and specialist off-licences but is not sold in general supermarkets and is restricted during Ramadan.
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Call 911 for police, ambulance, or fire in Jordan; the dedicated tourism police line is +962 6 560 0700.
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Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required throughout Jordan, though Aqaba resort areas are more relaxed.
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