Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp. A visa is required, but single-entry visas are available to US citizens upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and at most international land border crossings.
US Embassy/Consulate
[962] (6) 590-6000; US Embassy in Amman, Abdoun, Al-Umawyeen St., Amman – Jordan; Amman-ACS@state.gov; https://jo.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
962
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 191; Fire: 193; Police: 192
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Jordan: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, anthrax, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
Currency (Code)
Jordanian dinars (JOD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, F, G, J
Major Languages
Arabic, English (widely understood among upper and middle classes)
Major Religions
Muslim 97.1% (predominantly Sunni), Christian 2.1% (majority Greek Orthodox), Buddhist 0.4%, Hindu 0.1%
Time Difference
UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Friday in March, ends last Friday in October
Potable Water
Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Amman; Petra; Al-Maghtas; Jerash; Dead Sea; Mujib Nature Reserve
Major Sports
Soccer, rugby, basketball, handball, volleyball
Cultural Practices
Handshakes are very common in Jordan, even in less formal interactions. Don't be surprised if even casual contact includes a handshake.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not expected, but it is always appreciated. Leaving 10% at a restaurant is sufficient. For bellhops and hotel maids, around $2 (USD) per day is considered appropriate.
Souvenirs
Decorated sand bottles, hand woven rugs, water pipe musical instruments, kefiya headscarves, pottery, camel themed items
Traditional Cuisine
Mansaf — a dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, September 26, 2023
