How Does Crime & Safety Work in Jordan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists — violent crime is rare and Amman is generally very safe.
2What You Need to Know
Jordan consistently ranks as one of the most stable and tourist-safe countries in the Middle East. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and petty theft such as pickpocketing is uncommon by regional standards. Solo female travellers report that Jordan is relatively respectful compared to some neighbouring countries, though dressing conservatively and being alert to occasional verbal harassment in less-touristed areas is advisable. The borders and northern regions near Syria and Iraq require checking current government travel advisories — western Jordan (Amman, Petra, Aqaba, Wadi Rum) is entirely separate from any conflict zones and very safe.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Check your government's travel advisory specifically for the northern Jordan border areas before planning any itinerary near the Syrian or Iraqi borders
- 2Amman, Petra, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and the Dead Sea are all considered very safe by Middle Eastern and global standards
- 3Solo female travellers should dress conservatively outside resort areas and be comfortable with a direct but polite 'la shukran' (no thank you) for unwanted attention
Important Warning
Northern Jordan near the Syrian border has historically seen spillover instability — check current travel advisories from your government before visiting any sites in that region.
How does this compare?
Crime & Safety rules in nearby and similar countries:
The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world with extremely low crime rates — road accidents are a greater real risk than crime.
Major tourist areas are generally safe, but harassment — especially of women — is a genuine and frequent concern.
Morocco is generally safe for tourists with violent crime being rare, but solo women face significant street harassment in medinas and pickpocketing is a concern.
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More About Jordan
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
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