How Does Local Laws Work in Jordan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Drugs are strictly illegal, LGBTQ+ relationships carry legal risk, and photographing military or government sites is prohibited.
2What You Need to Know
Drug possession and trafficking are very seriously prosecuted in Jordan, with severe prison sentences. LGBTQ+ relationships are technically illegal under Jordanian law — enforcement against tourists has historically been limited, but the legal risk is real and travellers should exercise significant caution. Photography of military installations, checkpoints, police officers, government buildings, and border crossings is prohibited; Jordan has numerous military checkpoints on main roads, and these must never be photographed. Public behaviour is expected to be respectful and conservative. Alcohol is available but subject to restrictions, particularly during Ramadan.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1At the many military checkpoints on Jordanian highways, slow down well in advance, be polite, and have your passport ready — never reach for a camera
- 2LGBTQ+ travellers should exercise significant discretion, avoid public displays of affection, and research current conditions via Stonewall or ILGA before travel
- 3During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours — this applies to non-Muslim tourists and carries legal consequences
Important Warning
LGBTQ+ relationships are technically illegal in Jordan. Although enforcement against tourists has been limited historically, the legal framework exists and the risk should not be dismissed.
How does this compare?
Local Laws rules in nearby and similar countries:
The UAE has strict laws around alcohol, public behavior, drugs, and dress. What is legal in your home country may be a criminal offense here.
Drug possession, LGBTQ+ activity, photographing government or military sites, and criticising the president are all serious criminal offences in Egypt.
Several activities legal elsewhere are criminal offences in Morocco, including same-sex relations, sex outside marriage, and public displays of affection between unmarried couples.
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
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
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