How Does Water Safety Work in Jordan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Do not drink tap water in Jordan — bottled water is essential everywhere, and staying hydrated is critical given the desert climate.
2What You Need to Know
Tap water in Jordan is not safe to drink and will commonly cause gastrointestinal illness in tourists. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive at supermarkets and shops. Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world — be mindful of unnecessary water usage during your visit. The Dead Sea region, Petra, and Wadi Rum require aggressive hydration due to extreme heat and dry desert air. Good hotels provide complimentary bottled water but budget accommodation and camps may not. Always carry more water than you think you need when hiking at Petra or exploring Wadi Rum.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1At Petra, carry at least 2–3 litres of water per person — the site is vast, largely exposed to sun, and water sellers inside the site charge a premium
- 2Buy large 6-litre bottles from supermarkets in Aqaba or Wadi Musa rather than individual 500ml bottles to reduce cost and plastic waste
- 3At the Dead Sea, the high salinity and heat cause extreme dehydration — drink water before, during, and after your time in the water
Important Warning
Dehydration at Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea is a genuine medical risk. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur regularly among tourists who underestimate Jordan's desert conditions.
How does this compare?
Water Safety rules in nearby and similar countries:
Tap water is desalinated and technically safe to drink, but most residents and tourists use bottled water due to the heavy chlorination and taste.
Never drink tap water in Egypt — bottled water is cheap, widely available, and essential everywhere.
Do not drink tap water in Morocco — drink only sealed bottled water and be cautious with ice and raw salads at local establishments.
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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.
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There is no reliable public transport network for tourists — taxis, Uber in Amman, and JETT buses are the practical options.
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Amman has excellent private hospitals, but medical facilities outside the capital are limited — travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential.
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Drugs are strictly illegal, LGBTQ+ relationships carry legal risk, and photographing military or government sites is prohibited.
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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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