Jordan

Electricity

The electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are most common, though occasionally UK flat three-pin plugs are used.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Jordan. English is also spoken in the tourism sector and is commonly understood by many Jordanians, especially in urban areas.

Money

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the official currency, divided into 100 piastres or 1,000 fils. Currency can be exchanged at banks, licensed moneychangers, and some hotels. Banks close on Fridays and often Saturdays.

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted; American Express less so, and Diners Club is rare. ATMs are common in cities but limited in rural areas.

Apple Pay works at many modern businesses in urban areas. Google Pay is supported in some cases, depending on the card in question. Digital payments are growing, but it's wise to carry a physical card or cash, especially outside major cities.

Tipping

Many mid-range and high-end hotels and restaurants include a 10 percent service charge, though this may not go directly to staff. In smaller or local establishments, a five to 10 percent tip is appreciated if service is good. For taxis, it's customary to simply round up the fare rather than leave a separate tip.

Health

Travellers arriving from or transiting through countries with yellow fever may need to show proof of vaccination. A typhoid vaccine is also recommended for those visiting rural areas, staying long-term, or spending time with local families.

Bottled water is widely available and affordable, and is generally the safest choice. Some higher-end hotels may offer filtered water, but bottled is still preferred by most travellers.

Medical care in Amman and Aqaba is good, but facilities in rural areas are basic. For emergencies, treatment should be sought in one of these cities.

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised, including coverage for medical treatment and emergency evacuation if needed.

Safety

Most visits to Jordan are safe and enjoyable, with the country welcoming many tourists each year. While the overall risk is low, travellers should stay aware in busy public areas and at tourist sites.

It's best to avoid travel near the borders with Syria and Iraq due to security concerns and limited emergency services. Public demonstrations are usually peaceful but can become unpredictable, so visitors should avoid large gatherings.

Crime levels are generally low, though minor theft such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching can happen. Visitors should keep valuables secure and be mindful in crowded places.

Local customs

Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of local customs, especially during Ramadan, when eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours is best avoided. Alcohol is available in licensed places but should not be consumed in public areas.

Dressing modestly is appreciated; women may feel more comfortable with their shoulders and legs covered in public spaces.

Same-sex relationships are not illegal, though public displays of affection between couples, regardless of orientation, may be seen as inappropriate in more traditional settings.

Bedouin hospitality is sincere and generous. If travellers are offered tea or a meal, bringing a small gift is a thoughtful but not expected gesture.

Bargaining is a friendly part of shopping in markets and can be an enjoyable experience.

Doing business

Jordanian business attire tends to be formal, with men often wearing suits and ties, and women choosing modest professional outfits with high necklines and sleeves. In creative industries and urban workplaces, more relaxed attire is becoming acceptable. Meetings may begin slightly later than scheduled, but being on time is appreciated. English is commonly used, and using a few Arabic greetings and bilingual business cards can leave a positive impression.

It's not unusual to be invited to a meal, with the host covering costs. Offering a small, thoughtful gift (such as flowers or sweets) is kind but not expected, but it's important to avoid alcohol. The workweek runs from Sunday to Thursday, and typical hours are roughly 8.30am to 1pm and 3.30 to 6.30pm, though Ramadan and public holidays may bring adjustments.

Duty free

Travellers over 18 may bring up to 200 cigarettes, one litre of alcohol, and gifts worth up to JOD 50 into Jordan duty-free. Firearms require prior approval, and items such as narcotics, birds or bird products (without permission), and offensive materials are prohibited.

Communications

Jordan's dialling code is +962. To call abroad, visitors should dial 00 plus the country code. Free WiFi is common in hotels, cafes and shopping centres; visitors can purches local SIM cards for unlocked phones.

Passport & Visa

All foreign travellers to Jordan are generally required to hold a return or onward ticket and have the appropriate documentation for their next destination. Most nationalities must obtain a visa to enter, which is often available upon arrival by air. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended duration of visitors' stays in Jordan and should ideally include two blank pages. Immigration officials typically follow official policies and rarely impose unexpected or unofficial rules.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. It is possible to apply for an extension.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

Useful contacts

Jordan Tourism Board, Amman: +96 26 5678 444 or www.visitjordan.com

112 (police) 140 (medical emergencies) 175 (fire and rescue).