1. Visa Requirements for Jordan

Jordan’s visa policy is straightforward and tourist-friendly, with several options depending on your nationality and length of stay.

Short Stays (Up to 30–90 Days)

• Visa-Free Travel: Citizens of select countries (e.g., Egypt, Turkey, and most GCC states) can enter Jordan visa-free.
• Visa on Arrival: Many travelers—including those from the EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—can obtain a visa on arrival at airports and land borders. The standard tourist visa costs 40 JOD (≈ €52 / $56) and is valid for 30 days.
• E-Visa: Travelers who prefer to arrange a visa in advance can apply through Jordan’s official e-visa portal.
• Jordan Pass Option: Tourists staying for more than 3 nights can purchase the Jordan Pass, which includes a visa waiver and access to over 40 tourist sites (including Petra and Jerash).

Long Stays (More than 90 Days)

For work, study, or long-term stays, travelers must apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit through a Jordanian embassy or the Ministry of Interior.

2. Passport Validity Requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Jordan.

✈ Tip: Airlines may deny boarding if your passport is close to expiring, so renew it well in advance if needed.

3. Vaccination & Health Requirements

Mandatory Vaccinations

• Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from or transiting through a country where Yellow Fever is endemic. A valid certificate is required.
• COVID-19: As of 2024, there are no COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements to enter Jordan.

Recommended Vaccinations

• Hepatitis A & B
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Typhoid (especially if eating street food or staying with locals)
• Rabies (for travelers doing outdoor activities or visiting rural areas)

💊 Health Tip: Jordan has decent urban healthcare, but rural areas may lack medical facilities. Travel health insurance with emergency evacuation is strongly advised.

4. Customs Regulations: What You Can & Cannot Bring

Duty-Free Allowances (for travelers over 18):

• Alcohol: 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine
• Tobacco: 200 cigarettes OR 25 cigars OR 200 grams of tobacco
• Gifts: Up to 200 JOD (~€260 / $280) in value

Currency Declaration:

• You must declare amounts exceeding 10,000 JOD (~€13,000 / $14,000) or the equivalent in other currencies when entering or leaving Jordan.

Prohibited & Restricted Items:

❌ Illegal drugs and narcotics
❌ Weapons, explosives, or military gear
❌ Pornographic materials
❌ Drones without prior authorization
❌ Fresh food, plants, and seeds (agricultural restrictions)
❌ Israeli products or goods with Hebrew labeling may be questioned at customs

🚨 Tip: Jordanian customs are generally efficient, but they may inspect luggage thoroughly at land borders. Always declare restricted items and carry prescriptions for any medications.

5. Border Controls & Security Checks

Jordan is not part of the Schengen Area, and standard border checks apply at airports and land crossings.

Expect questions about:

• Purpose of visit
• Proof of accommodation
• Return or onward ticket
• Sufficient funds for your stay
• Travel history, especially if you have visited Israel (entering Jordan after Israel is generally fine; issues can arise if trying to enter Israel from Jordan with a Jordanian stamp from certain borders)

📌 Final Tip: Always double-check the latest requirements with your nearest Jordanian embassy or consulate, especially if you're entering by land or traveling during times of regional tension.

1. Local Currency

• Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD, د.ا)
• Subunits: 1 Dinar = 1000 Fils
• Coins: ½ dinar, ¼ dinar, 100 fils, 50 fils, 25 fils, 10 fils, 5 fils
• Banknotes: JOD 1, 5, 10, 20, 50

💰 Fun Fact: Jordanian banknotes feature Arabic on one side and English on the other, with designs depicting historical kings, cultural motifs, and iconic landmarks like Petra and the Dome of the Rock. 

2. Exchange Rate & Best Places to Exchange Money

Exchange Rate (approximate):

1 USD ≈ 0.71 JOD
1 Euro ≈ 0.76 JOD
(Rates can vary—always check a reliable source or app before exchanging.)

Best Places to Exchange Money:

• Currency exchange offices: Found in city centers and tourist areas; often offer better rates than banks.
• Banks: Secure but may charge fees or offer less competitive rates.
• ATMs: Offer good rates and are convenient; just watch out for withdrawal and foreign transaction fees from your home bank.

💱 Tip: Avoid exchanging money at the airport or in hotels unless it’s an emergency—rates tend to be lower. Exchange in the city for better value, and keep your receipt if exchanging large sums.

3. Availability of ATMs & Card Payments

ATMs:

• Widely available in cities, airports, and larger towns.
• Most machines have English-language options.
• Accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, some American Express).
• Dispense Jordanian Dinar only.

Card Payments:

• Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions.
• Smaller shops, local eateries, taxis, and rural areas may be cash-only.
• Contactless payments and mobile wallets (like Apple Pay and Google Pay) are still not widespread, so carry cash as a backup.

💳 Cash Tip: Jordan is more cash-oriented than Western countries—carry small bills for tips, market purchases, and transport.

4. Tipping Culture

Restaurants:

• A 10% tip is standard if service is good and not already included in the bill.
• Some restaurants add a service charge, but tipping extra for exceptional service is appreciated.

Cafes & Bars:

• Rounding up or leaving small change is common but not mandatory.

Taxis:

• Tipping is not required, but rounding up the fare to the next dinar is polite.

Hotels:

• 1–2 JOD per bag for porters
• 2–3 JOD per night for housekeeping
• 5–10 JOD for concierge or special assistance

Tours & Guides:

• For group tours: 3–5 JOD per person per day
• For private guides: 10–20 JOD per day, depending on service

💸 Tipping Tip: While tipping is not strictly mandatory in Jordan, it is a respected gesture and expected in the tourism and hospitality industry—always carry small denominations for convenience.

1. Official Language(s) & Basic Phrases

Official Language: Arabic
Widely Spoken Language: English (especially in tourist areas and cities)

Basic Arabic Phrases to Know:

• Hello = Marhaba
• Thank you = Shukran
• Please = Min fadlak (to a man) / Min fadlik (to a woman)
• Goodbye = Ma’a as-salama
• Excuse me / Sorry = Afwan / Aasif
• Where is the bathroom? = Ayna al-hammam?
• How much does it cost? = Kam ath-thaman?

🗣 Cultural Tip: Jordanians are very friendly and appreciate any effort to speak Arabic. Even simple greetings can go a long way in making connections. Arabic is read right to left, but many signs in cities are bilingual (Arabic & English).

2. English Proficiency Level

Ease of Communication: Generally easy in urban and tourist areas

• English is widely spoken in Amman, Petra, Aqaba, and major tourist zones.
• Hotel staff, guides, and younger Jordanians typically have a good command of English.
• In rural or less touristic areas, English is less common, so a few Arabic phrases or a translation app can be very useful.

🎯 Tip: Street signs, menus, and transportation info are often available in both Arabic and English in cities and tourist spots.

3. Useful Translation Apps

• Google Translate: Excellent for Arabic ↔ English; includes voice and camera translation for menus and signs.
• iTranslate: Good for common travel phrases and offline use.
• SayHi: Great for spoken conversations; simple and clear for tourist-level exchanges.
• Microsoft Translator: Offers multi-person conversation mode—handy for group travel.

📲 Tip: Download Arabic offline language packs in advance for areas with poor coverage or when on desert treks or remote site visits.

4. Local SIM Card or eSIM Options

Local SIM Cards:

• Zain: Largest provider, good nationwide coverage and reliable tourist SIM packages.
• Orange Jordan: Strong data network, with tourist-friendly prepaid options.
• Umniah: Budget-friendly plans with decent coverage in cities and towns.

eSIM Options:

• Airalo: Offers Jordan-specific eSIMs with flexible data packages.
• Holafly: Unlimited data eSIM for Jordan, easy setup and customer support.
• Nomad & Ubigi: Global eSIM options that include Jordan in their roaming packages.

Where to Buy:

• Queen Alia International Airport (Amman) – convenient kiosks
• Mobile network shops and malls in Amman, Aqaba, and other cities
• Online (order a physical SIM or activate an eSIM before arrival)

📱 Tip: Tourist SIMs start around 10–20 JOD (~€13–25), typically including 5–15 GB of data, local calls, and SMS. Most plans are valid for 7–30 days and include free incoming calls. Buying a local SIM or eSIM is far cheaper than international roaming.

1. Public Transport System

Trains:

Jordan does not currently have a passenger railway network. All long-distance travel is done via road (buses, taxis, or private cars). A historic train runs occasionally as a tourist attraction along parts of the old Hejaz Railway, but it is not a functional transport option.

Buses:

• JETT (Jordan Express Tourist Transport): The most reliable and comfortable intercity bus company for tourists. Routes include Amman, Petra, Aqaba, Jerash, and the Dead Sea. Tickets can be booked online or at JETT terminals.
• Local minibuses and service taxis (shared taxis): Common across the country and very budget-friendly, but they don’t run on fixed schedules. Drivers often wait until the vehicle is full before departing.
• Public city buses: Operate in Amman and a few other cities. They are extremely cheap but often confusing for non-Arabic speakers.

Trams / Metro:

Jordan does not have metro or tram systems.

Tuk-tuks / Rickshaws:

Not commonly used in Jordan. In some rural or remote areas, you may find small local vehicles or donkey carts, but these are not standard transport.

🚍 Tip: Use Google Maps or the JETT website for intercity travel planning. Public transport within cities is limited—taxis and ride-hailing are often the best bet.

2. Taxi & Ridesharing Options

Traditional Taxis:

• Widely available in Amman, Aqaba, and other major cities.
• Always ask the driver to use the meter (“Add the meter = Shaghil al-‘addad”) or agree on a fare in advance for long trips.
• Official taxis are yellow; private or unlicensed cars should be avoided.
• Not all taxis accept cards—carry cash.

Ridesharing Apps:

• Careem: The most popular and reliable app in Jordan for ride-hailing (available in Amman, Zarqa, and Aqaba).
• Uber: Available in Amman, but only works with licensed taxi drivers (not private cars).
• Jeeny: A local ride-hailing app that’s popular with Jordanians—often cheaper than Uber or Careem.

🚖 Tip: Careem is preferred by tourists for convenience, safety, and price transparency. Most rides are affordable, even for longer distances.

3. Driving Rules

Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.

License Requirements:

• Tourists can drive in Jordan with a valid national driver’s license.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or Arabic.
• Rental car companies may ask for both your passport and driving license.

Key Road Rules:

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
• Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited (hands-free devices only).
• Road signs are in Arabic and English.
• Traffic in roundabouts has right of way unless otherwise marked.
• Speed limits:
  • Cities: 50–60 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80–90 km/h
  • Highways: 100–120 km/h

🚗 Tip: Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze work well in Jordan. Driving in Amman can be hectic—expect heavy traffic and aggressive drivers. Parking can be challenging; paid lots and valet services are common in urban areas.

4. Bike / Scooter Rental Options

Bike Rentals:

• Cycling is not a common mode of transport in Jordan’s cities due to steep hills, traffic, and lack of bike lanes.
• However, guided bike tours are available in Petra, Wadi Rum, and some nature reserves (e.g., Dana).

E-Scooter Rentals:

• E-scooter sharing is not widespread in Jordan (unlike in some Western countries).
• In limited areas of Amman, local initiatives or rental shops offer scooters, but they’re not yet fully integrated into the urban infrastructure.

Guided Tours:

• Popular in Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Jordan Valley—offered by eco-tour operators and adventure companies.
• These are more recreational than transport-focused.

🚴 Tip: Helmets are recommended, but not always provided. Bring your own gear for bike tours. Scooters and bikes are great for sightseeing in low-traffic tourist zones, but not recommended for city commuting.

1. Best Neighborhoods for Tourists

Amman:

• Jabal Amman (Rainbow Street area): Central, walkable, and filled with cafés, art galleries, and historic architecture. Great for first-timers and those wanting culture and convenience.
• Abdoun: An upscale neighborhood known for its embassies, international restaurants, and nightlife. Ideal for travelers looking for comfort and luxury.
• Al Weibdeh (Jabal Al Lweibdeh): Bohemian, artistic, and trendy—filled with local art spaces, independent cafés, and vintage charm. Perfect for creatives and budget-conscious visitors.
• Shmeisani: Safe, central, and residential—ideal for families or travelers looking for peace and easy access to major roads.

Petra (Wadi Musa):

• Wadi Musa Town Center: Walking distance to the Petra Visitor Center with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops. Great for convenience and early-morning Petra access.
• Upper Wadi Musa: Quieter, with stunning sunset views and boutique-style hotels—good for couples or those wanting a relaxing stay.

Aqaba:

• City Center: Close to beaches, souks, and restaurants. Ideal for beachgoers, divers, and those seeking a vibrant seaside base.
• South Beach Area: A few kilometers outside the city—quieter with direct access to private beaches and diving resorts.

Dead Sea:

• Sweimeh / Dead Sea Hotel Zone: Home to major resorts like the Mövenpick, Kempinski, and Hilton. Perfect for spa breaks and floating in the salty waters.

🏘 Tip: In Amman and Petra, aim for accommodations near key attractions or main streets (like Rainbow Street or Petra Visitor Center) to avoid hilly walks and costly taxi rides.

2. Hotel, Hostel, or Airbnb Options

Hotels:

• Budget (10–30 JOD/night | €13–€40): The Boutique Hotel Amman, Nomads Hotel (Amman), My Home Petra.
• Mid-range (30–70 JOD/night | €40–€95): Petra Guest House, Larsa Hotel (Amman), Lacosta Hotel (Aqaba).
• Luxury (70+ JOD/night | €95+): Kempinski Hotel Amman, Mövenpick Resort Petra, InterContinental Aqaba, Hilton Dead Sea Resort.

Hostels:

• Budget-friendly (7–20 JOD/night | €9–€26): Nomads Hotel (Amman & Petra), The Cabin Hostel (Amman), Bedouin Garden Village (Aqaba).
• Many offer dorms and private rooms with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and social events—great for backpackers and solo travelers.

Airbnb:

• Prices range from 20–60+ JOD/night (€26–€80+) depending on location, size, and season.
• Amman, Wadi Musa, and Aqaba have the most listings, including apartments, guesthouses, and villas.
• Ideal for long stays, families, or travelers seeking local living.

Booking Platforms:

• Booking.com (widely used for hotels, guesthouses, and boutique stays)
• Airbnb (for apartments, homestays, and local rentals)
• Hostelworld (for budget options and social hostels)
• Expedia (packages and international chains)

🏨 Tip: Book well in advance for Petra and the Dead Sea during spring and autumn—these are peak travel times.

3. Cultural Stay Recommendations

Traditional Homestays & Guesthouses:

• Bedouin Camps (Wadi Rum & Petra): Stay in traditional tents with shared meals, stargazing, and desert experiences. Recommended: Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp, Seven Wonders Bedouin Camp, or Little Petra Bedouin Camp.
• Jordanian Homestays: Experience authentic hospitality, meals, and culture in homes across Amman, Dana, and Madaba. Try platforms like Engage Jordan or Airbnb Experiences.

Boutique Hotels:

• Beit Al Baraka (Um Qais): Cozy, community-run guesthouse supporting local livelihoods.
• Feynan Ecolodge (Dana Reserve): Award-winning eco-lodge powered by solar energy, with candle-lit rooms and local meals.
• Beit al Taybeh (near Petra): A lovingly restored traditional house with home-cooked food and warm hosts.

Unique Experiences:

• Eco-lodges & community stays in Dana Biosphere Reserve—perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and sustainable travelers.
• Wadi Rum luxury bubble tents—private domes with clear roofs for stargazing and comfort.
• Cooking stays in Madaba or Amman—combine accommodation with culinary workshops and family-style dining.

🏡 Tip: Search for terms like "eco-lodge Jordan," "Wadi Rum camp," or "community-based tourism Jordan" to find authentic and meaningful stays.

1. Crime Levels & Travel Advisories

General Safety:

Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. Crime rates are relatively low, and violent crime against visitors is rare. Jordanians are known for their hospitality, and most travelers experience a warm and welcoming environment.

Common Risks:

• Pickpocketing: Can occur in crowded areas like downtown Amman, bus stations, and busy tourist spots such as Petra or Jerash.
• Scams: Generally uncommon, but travelers should be cautious with unlicensed guides, overly aggressive shopkeepers, or taxis that refuse to use the meter.
• Security Incidents: While Jordan is politically stable, occasional protests or demonstrations may occur in Amman or near borders. These are usually peaceful and well-monitored by authorities.

Travel Advisories:

• Check your country’s official advisory (e.g., U.S. Department of State, UK FCDO, German Auswärtiges Amt) for updates.
• Avoid border zones with Syria and Iraq unless necessary—these areas may have restricted access or active advisories.

🚨 Safety Tip: Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid political gatherings, and carry a copy of your passport or national ID. In rural or tribal areas, cultural respect and modest behavior are essential.

2. Emergency Contacts

Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade:

📞 911 – Works for all emergency services in Jordan
📞 112 – Alternative emergency line for police
📞 199 – Civil Defense (fire, rescue, ambulance)

Embassies:

Most embassies are located in Amman.
Check your embassy’s website for emergency assistance and contact details.

🆘 Tip: Travelers are encouraged to register with embassy programs (e.g., U.S. STEP or Germany’s ELEFAND) and save emergency numbers in their phones before arrival.

3. Local Laws & Customs

Dress Codes:

• Jordan is a conservative country—modest clothing is expected, especially outside Amman or in rural areas.
• Women: Should cover shoulders, cleavage, and knees. A headscarf is not required, but may be appreciated in rural or religious areas.
• Men: Should avoid sleeveless shirts in conservative areas.

Alcohol Restrictions:

• Legal drinking age is 18, but alcohol is not widely available outside tourist zones, hotels, or licensed restaurants.
• Public drinking is not permitted, and alcohol may be restricted during Ramadan or in conservative towns.
• Muslim-owned establishments typically do not serve alcohol; Christian-owned hotels and shops are more likely to.

Photography Rules:

• Photography is allowed in most public places, but ask before photographing people, especially women.
• Avoid taking photos of military sites, police, border posts, or government buildings.
• Be discreet in religious areas and always look for signs indicating photography restrictions.

📸 Tip: In Bedouin communities or tribal areas, always request permission before taking pictures. It’s considered very respectful and may lead to a warm conversation!

4. Health & Hygiene Considerations

Tap Water Safety:

• Tap water is treated and safe in Amman and hotels, but it’s often not recommended for drinking due to pipe contamination in some areas.
• Bottled water is widely available and affordable—most tourists choose this option.

Medical Facilities:

• Jordan has modern hospitals and clinics, especially in Amman and Aqaba.
• Emergency care is available at public and private hospitals, but non-citizens must pay upfront unless covered by travel insurance.
• Pharmacies are widespread and many pharmacists speak English.

Pharmacies:

• Known as “Saydaliyya”, pharmacies are common and well-stocked.
• Many are open late, especially in cities, and offer over-the-counter meds.
• Some private clinics are connected to pharmacies and offer quick consultations.

💊 Health Tip: Bring essential medications in original packaging along with prescriptions. Jordan does not allow some medications without documentation (especially narcotics or psychotropics). Travel insurance covering medical care and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

1. Typical Weather Conditions

General Climate:

Jordan has a mostly arid to semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. The climate varies by region—from desert heat in the south to milder, greener highlands in the north.

Seasons:

• Spring (March to May): Warm and pleasant across the country. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Wildflowers bloom in the northern hills and nature reserves.
• Summer (June to August): Very hot, especially in the Jordan Valley, Petra, and Wadi Rum. Amman averages around 32°C (90°F), while Aqaba and the Dead Sea can reach 40°C (104°F).
• Autumn (September to November): Dry and comfortable, with temps ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Excellent conditions for hiking and desert stays.
• Winter (December to February): Cool to cold, especially in Amman, Petra, and the highlands. Amman can dip to 5°C (41°F), and snow is possible in elevated areas. The Dead Sea and Aqaba remain mild and sunny.

Rainfall:

Rain falls mostly from November to March, concentrated in the north and west. The eastern desert and Wadi Rum remain extremely dry year-round.

☀️ Tip: In summer, pack sunscreen, light layers, and plenty of water. In winter, bring warm clothing—especially if visiting Petra or northern areas.

2. Best Months to Visit

High Season (March to May, September to October):

Perfect for visiting Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. The weather is comfortable for hiking, exploring ruins, and desert stays. Spring offers green hills and flower blooms; fall is dry, warm, and less crowded.

Shoulder Season (February, early November):

Cooler but still pleasant for sightseeing and city visits. Fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices make this a good value season.

Low Season (June to August, December to January):

• Summer: Extremely hot, but ideal for Aqaba and Dead Sea resorts. Desert visits are possible early in the day or at sunset.
• Winter: Cold in Amman and Petra but great for off-season deals and fewer crowds. Aqaba stays sunny and warm, even in January.

📅 Tip: April and October strike the best balance of mild weather, good availability, and lower risk of extreme heat or cold.

3. Natural Disaster Risks

Hurricanes/Typhoons:

❌ None. Jordan is landlocked and not exposed to hurricanes or typhoons.

Earthquakes:

✅ Possible but infrequent. Jordan lies near the Dead Sea Fault, and mild tremors occur occasionally. Significant earthquakes are rare but not impossible.

Flash Floods:

⚠️ A real hazard in wadis (dry riverbeds) during autumn and winter rains. These floods can come on suddenly and are extremely dangerous. Avoid canyons, gorges, and hiking trails if rain is forecasted.

Other Risks:

• Heatwaves in summer, especially in Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Jordan Valley.
• Dust storms (khamsin) may occur in spring, reducing visibility and air quality.

🌦 Tip: Always check the Jordan Meteorological Department or local apps for weather updates before desert or canyon hikes. If rain is expected, reschedule any wadi activities.

1. Local Dishes to Try

• Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish—a Bedouin specialty of lamb cooked in fermented yogurt sauce (jameed), served over rice and thin flatbread. Often eaten with the hands during family gatherings and festivals.
• Maqluba: A flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken or lamb), eggplant, and vegetables. It's flipped upside down when served—“maqluba” literally means “upside down.”
• Falafel: Crispy, deep-fried chickpea balls served in pita with tahini, pickles, and salad. A popular vegetarian street food available all over Jordan.
• Hummus & Moutabbal: Creamy chickpea or eggplant-based dips topped with olive oil, garlic, and lemon. Served with fresh bread as a starter or light meal.
• Zarb: A traditional Bedouin barbecue dish, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked underground in a sand oven. Commonly found in Wadi Rum desert camps.

🍽 Tip: For an authentic food experience, try eating at local restaurants in downtown Amman or enjoy a home-cooked meal on a Bedouin tour in Wadi Rum.

2. Dietary Restrictions

Vegetarian Options:

Jordanian cuisine includes many naturally vegetarian dishes such as falafel, hummus, lentil soup, tabbouleh, mutabbal, baba ghanoush, and stuffed vine leaves. Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarians easily, especially in cities.

Halal Options:

Jordan is a majority-Muslim country, and almost all restaurants and street food vendors serve halal food by default. No need to ask in most cases unless you’re in an international hotel.

Kosher Options:

Kosher food is not commonly available in Jordan. Jewish dietary laws are not followed outside of private or diplomatic contexts. Visitors who keep kosher should plan to eat vegetarian or bring packaged kosher items.

🌱 Tip: Look for vegetarian symbols on menus or say "Ana nabati" (I’m vegetarian) to restaurant staff. Most servers in tourist areas speak basic English and are happy to help with dietary questions.

3. Street Food Safety

General Safety:

Street food in Jordan is generally safe, especially in busy, popular areas like downtown Amman or tourist hubs like Petra.

Tips for Avoiding Food Poisoning:

• Eat where locals are lining up—high turnover = fresher food.
• Make sure meat (especially shawarma and grilled meats) is cooked thoroughly and served hot.
• Avoid food that’s been sitting out uncovered, especially sauces or dips.
• Be cautious with unsealed fresh juice stands; opt for bottled water and drinks in sealed containers.

🌯 Tip: Carry hand sanitizer or wet wipes, especially when eating on the go. Avoid raw salads in small roadside stalls if you have a sensitive stomach.

4. Restaurant Etiquette

Eating Customs:

• Wait to be seated in sit-down restaurants; in cafés or fast food spots, order at the counter.
• Meals often start with complimentary mezze (small dishes like hummus or olives).
• It’s polite to say “shukran” (thank you) and “min fadlak/fadlik” (please).
• In traditional settings, you may be offered food multiple times—accepting a little is considered polite.

Service Charges:

• Some restaurants include a 10% service charge on the bill—check the receipt.
• If not included, tipping 10–15% is appreciated in full-service restaurants.
• Tipping is not expected at fast-food chains or local snack shops, but rounding up is common.

🍴 Tip: Credit cards are accepted at mid- to high-end restaurants and hotels, but cash is preferred for tipping and small eateries.

1. Average Daily Budget

Backpacker: 25–45 JOD/day (€32–€60)

Stay in hostel dorms or budget guesthouses, eat at falafel stands or local cafés, use minibuses or shared taxis, and visit low-cost or free attractions like Petra viewpoints, downtown Amman, or street markets.

Mid-Range Traveler: 70–130 JOD/day (€90–€165)

Stay in 3-star hotels or Airbnb, dine in sit-down restaurants, pay for key attractions like Petra or Wadi Rum tours, and use taxis or pre-arranged group transfers.

Luxury Traveler: 200+ JOD/day (€260+)

Stay in boutique or 5-star resorts, enjoy fine dining and private drivers, book guided tours or desert experiences, and include spa treatments or Dead Sea hotel stays.

💰 Tip: Amman and Petra are pricier than smaller cities or rural areas. Wadi Rum offers excellent luxury-for-value in desert camps.

2. Cost of Meals, Transport, and Attractions

Meals:

• Budget (street food): 1.5–3.5 JOD (€2–€5) – falafel wrap, shawarma, hummus plates
• Casual restaurants: 5–10 JOD (€6–€13) – grilled meats, mezze meals, or local cafes
• Fine dining: 20–40+ JOD (€26–€52+) per person in upscale Amman or Dead Sea resorts

Transport:

• City bus: 0.5–1 JOD (€0.60–€1.30) – usually exact change only
• Taxi (short ride): 2–5 JOD (€2.60–€6.50), meters are common in Amman but confirm before boarding
• Intercity bus (e.g., Amman to Petra): 8–11 JOD (€10–€14.50) with JETT
• Car rental: 25–40 JOD/day (€32–€52) + fuel

Attractions:

• Free: Citadel viewpoint (Amman), Roman Theater exterior, Rainbow Street strolls, Wadi Rum stargazing (camp-dependent), Jerash city walk
• Paid:
  • Petra: 50 JOD (€65) for 1-day ticket (included in Jordan Pass)
  • Wadi Rum entrance: 5 JOD (€6.50) + tour or camp fee
  • Jerash ruins: 10 JOD (€13)
  • Dead Sea resort access: 20–40 JOD (€26–€52) day-use passes
• Guided tours: 30–100 JOD (€40–€130) depending on location, group/private, and inclusions

🎫 Tip: Petra by Night is a magical but separate experience (17 JOD / €22), offered 3 nights a week—book it in advance!

3. Ways to Save Money

City Passes & Discount Cards:

• Jordan Pass: Best deal for tourists visiting Petra. Includes free visa entry and access to 40+ attractions (Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel, and more). Starts at 70 JOD (€90) depending on your Petra ticket choice.
• JETT Bundle Tickets: Booking return tickets or multiple routes in advance with JETT Bus can save a few dinars.

Free Activities:

• Stroll through Amman's Rainbow Street, explore the Citadel grounds, or browse souks and craft shops.
• Public beaches in Aqaba and Dead Sea (limited but available)
• Enjoy Bedouin hospitality in Wadi Rum—even if you don’t stay overnight, tea is often free.
• Join tip-based walking tours in Amman or Petra (look on Couchsurfing or Facebook groups).

Booking Tips:

• Use sites like GetYourGuide, Viator, or local platforms like Trekking Jordan for group tour deals.
• Book midweek stays in Petra and Dead Sea to avoid peak pricing.
• Use Careem (ride-hailing app) for cheaper, safer taxi rides in cities.

🎟 Tip: If visiting Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum, the Jordan Pass pays for itself after two major sites—plus it saves you the 40 JOD visa fee.

1. Gestures & Body Language

Politeness:

Jordanians are warm and hospitable, and polite greetings and respectful body language are highly valued. Always say “Salam Alaikum” (peace be upon you) when entering a room or meeting someone—it’s a respectful and appreciated greeting.

What’s Considered Rude:

• Pointing directly at people or using the left hand to give or receive items is considered impolite.
• Showing the soles of your feet or shoes is disrespectful—avoid crossing your legs with your foot pointing at someone.
• Public displays of affection (hugging, kissing) are frowned upon, especially in rural or conservative areas.
• Avoid overly animated gestures, shouting, or arguing loudly in public—it’s considered poor manners.

General Behavior:

Handshakes are common between men, but men should wait for women to offer a hand first. A nod or hand over the heart is a polite alternative if unsure.

🤝 Tip: Show appreciation for Jordanian hospitality—it’s customary to accept offers of tea or coffee even if you only sip it.

2. Social Etiquette

Greetings:

• Standard greeting is a firm handshake with direct eye contact (between same genders).
• In conservative settings, men and women may greet verbally only.
• Among friends, greetings often involve cheek kissing (1–3 times, starting with the right cheek), but only within the same gender.

Personal Space:

• Jordanians stand relatively close when conversing—close proximity is normal, especially among friends.
• In more formal situations or mixed-gender interactions, people may keep a respectful distance.

Small Talk:

• Family, travel, and food are great topics.
• Avoid direct questions about income, politics, or religion unless you know the person well.
• Hospitality is deeply rooted—expect to be offered tea or coffee as part of any visit or meeting.

🌞 Tip: Learn and use a few Arabic phrases—this earns instant respect and often leads to warmer interactions.

3. Religious Considerations

Dress Codes:

• In urban areas like Amman and Aqaba, casual western-style clothing is fine, but modesty is still appreciated.
• In religious or rural areas (Petra, Madaba, Karak), both men and women should cover shoulders and knees.
• When visiting mosques or churches:
  • Women should wear long sleeves, long skirts or trousers, and may be asked to cover their hair.
  • Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.

Prayer Times:

• The Muslim call to prayer happens five times a day. You’ll hear it broadcast from mosques, but it rarely disrupts public services.
• Some businesses may briefly close during Friday midday prayer (the most important weekly prayer).

🕌 Tip: When entering religious sites, remove your shoes and avoid walking in front of people during prayer. Respect any signs or local customs regarding attire.

4. Workweek & Holidays

Workweek:

• The standard workweek in Jordan runs from Sunday to Thursday.
• Friday is the main weekly day of rest (Jumu’ah) for Muslims—many businesses and public offices are closed, especially in the morning.
• Saturday is often a partial or full holiday in the private sector.

Public Holidays:

• Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan – dates vary)
• Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice – dates vary)
• Islamic New Year
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
• Independence Day (May 25)
• Christmas (December 25 – mainly in Christian areas)

Holiday Notes:

• During Ramadan, many restaurants close during the day, and working hours are shorter. Be respectful and avoid eating or drinking in public before sunset.
• Eid holidays are very busy travel periods—book transportation and hotels early.

📅 Tip: Plan ahead if traveling during Ramadan or Eid, as transport, food services, and attractions may have limited hours or closures. Fridays are generally quiet across the country.