Jordan

U.S. Embassy Amman

Al-Umayyaween Street,
Abdoun neighborhood,
Amman 11118
Jordan
Telephone: +(962) (6) 590-6000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(962) (6) 590-6500
Fax: +(962) (6) 592-4102
Email: Amman-ACS@state.gov

A passport with a validity of at least six months and a visa are required for entry into Jordan. Jordanian immigration officials issue single entry visas to U.S. citizens for a fee upon arrival at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, the northern Sheikh Hussein crossing at the Israeli border, the Eilat/Wadi Araba crossing near Aqaba and most other border crossings except the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge.

Costs:

• The Jordanian visa issued upon arrival currently costs 40 JD (approximately 56 USD) for a single entry with one-month validity. Jordan will also issue a multi-entry five-year visa upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport for 114 JOD (approximately 160 USD).
• Prior to travel, U.S. citizens may apply at a Jordanian Embassy for a dual-entry visa with three months validity for 60 JOD (approximately 85 USD) or a multi-entry visa with 60 months validity for 120 JOD (approximately 170 USD).
• For travelers entering Jordan at the port of Aqaba, visit the Ministry of Tourism web site for special information on visas.
• The Jordan Tourism Board also offers a single-fee package called “The Jordan Pass” that includes visa costs and entry fees to most tourist sites in Jordan. Tourists much purchase the Jordan Pass in advance from https://www.jordanpass.jo/.
• Contact the Embassy of Jordan in Washington, D.C. for current visa information.

Visa Validity:

• Visas upon arrival for U.S. citizens are typically valid for a 30-day stay. Upon request you may obtain a five-year multi-entry visa at Queen Alia International Airport.
• Foreigners who wish to stay longer than the time limit given to them by Jordanian immigration officials upon entry must register at a Jordanian police station before expiration of that time limit. Travelers are generally given a single extension of 60 days.

Fines:

• Travelers who fail to properly register themselves incur a fine of 1.5 JD (approximately 2 USD) per day beyond their permitted length of stay.
• This fine is usually assessed at departure.
• Travelers are barred from leaving until the fine is paid.

King Hussein/Allenby Bridge:

• Visas are not issued upon arrival at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge land border crossing.
• U.S. citizens, other than diplomatic or official passport holders, must have a valid Jordanian visa or have a special entry permit from the Jordanian Ministry of Interior to enter Jordan at this crossing.
• U.S. citizens who enter Jordan on a single or multiple entry visa and depart Jordan via the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge may return to Jordan through this crossing without a new visa as long as the visa has not expired.
• An exit fee of 10 JD (approximately 14 USD) is assessed to all visitors departing through the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, except for diplomats residing in Jordan.

For more information regarding travel to the West Bank and Jerusalem, please see the country information for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza,

HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Jordan. Travelers may be denied entry at ports of entry, including land border crossings, if they are known to have HIV. This policy, however, is rarely enforced and Jordanian authorities do not screen for HIV/AIDS at the border. Jordan does not permit residency for foreign nationals with HIV/AIDS. Travelers seeking to extend their stay beyond the initial timeframe are legally required to have an HIV/AIDS test performed at a government medical facility as part of a general medical screening. Those who fail to submit to the test or who test positive for HIV are denied residency and may be deported. For further information, please see the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan website before you travel.

Travelers should check the Country Information and Travel Advisories for all countries they plan to visit during their travel to the region. Border crossing requirements may change, and borders may be closed during holidays and periods of heightened security. For further information, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, or by telephone at (202) 966-2861 or (202) 966-2664. Jordan also maintains honorary consulates in Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL, and San Francisco, CA.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan. Transnational and indigenous terrorist groups have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks in Jordan. Violent extremist groups in Syria and Iraq, including the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), and al-Qa’ida, directly or indirectly have conducted or supported attacks in Jordan and continue to plot against local security forces, U.S. and Western interests and “soft” targets, such as high-profile public events, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, schools, and malls. Jordan’s prominent role in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and its shared borders with Iraq and Syria increase the potential for future terrorist incidents.

• Travelers to Jordan should be aware that violent extremist groups have carried out terrorist activities against U.S. and Government of Jordan targets in Jordan.
• Jordanian security services have conducted multiple operations to disrupt terrorist plots and operations.
• In November 2019, a lone terrorist stabbed eight people, including four foreigners, at the Jerash tourist site. The perpetrator was immediately arrested and charged with committing a terrorist act.
•  U.S. government personnel must have permission for official travel on Highway 10 east of the town of Ruwayshid toward the Iraq border, due to Jordanian military activity, known smuggling routes, and a lack of emergency facilities.
• U.S. government employees are not permitted to visit most border areas or any refugee camps on personal travel, and the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid both locations.
• On occasion, the U.S. Embassy temporarily makes other areas within Jordan off limits to its staff based on the security situation. This information will be shared with the U.S. citizen community through our website and through a message to STEP enrollees.

In general, terrorists often do not distinguish between U.S. government personnel and private U.S. citizens. Terrorists may target areas frequented by Westerners, such as tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, shopping malls, transportation hubs, places of worship, expatriate residential areas, and schools. In light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance:

• be aware of your surroundings
• take appropriate steps to increase your security awareness
• be unpredictable in your movements by varying your times and routes
• maintain a low profile
• avoid contact with any suspicious or unfamiliar objects and immediately report the presence of such objects to local authorities

U.S. government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Statistically, petty crime is the most common form of crime that U.S. citizens and other Western nationals experience in Jordan, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Pickpockets, purse snatchers, and opportunistic thieves are known to target foreigners in the narrow and crowded streets of the older parts of Amman’s city center. Travelers should be alert in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan. Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs, to reduce likelihood of targeting by thieves.

Thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery, and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported. Take care not to display valuables in your car or on your person and be sure to lock car doors and windows.

Violent crime does occur, but U.S. citizens or other Westerners are rarely targeted. In the past, the Embassy has received reports of firearms being discharged at vehicles being driven by Westerners. Celebratory gunfire is common, especially during major festivals, sporting events, or the biannual release of high school test scores.

Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. Not only are the pirated copies illegal in the United States, if you purchase them, you will also be breaking local law. Most DVDs, CDs, and software available for sale in Jordan are pirated.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations remain peaceful. However, some have turned violent, even when intended to be peaceful, leading security officials to intervene. Travelers should avoid all protests and large gatherings of people. Many demonstrations occur on Thursday evenings near government buildings and on Fridays near mosques following mid-day prayers. You should exercise special sensitivity and caution when visiting or traveling near mosques and religious sites during holy days and Fridays. Demonstrations and other forms of unrest have occurred on public university campuses in Jordan. Some acts of violence on university campuses have involved the use of firearms. Although generally peaceful, anti-U.S. demonstrations have also taken place in front of the U.S. Embassy.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 911. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact 911 and ask to be put in touch with the Family Protection Directorate, part of the national police, which is staffed 24/7 and has some English-speaking personnel. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. U.S. citizen victims of crime may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at (6) 590-6950.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call 911 and ask to speak to the Family Protection Directorate which is tasked with assisting and investigating issues of domestic violence. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Flash Flooding: Certain areas of Jordan, including Petra, the Dead Sea, and other tourist areas, are prone to heavy rain and flash flooding, especially from October-March. Roads and bridges may become impassable and the Jordanian government may close tourist areas completely. The first rains of the season in particular often cause flooding throughout Amman and other cities in Jordan. It is important to watch the weather reports and heed local recommendations. The Jordanian government may send out Arabic language text messages to all cell phones registered in Jordan when inclement weather, such as heavy rain, occurs.

Tribal Violence: Clashes between feuding tribes, clans, or families periodically erupt without notice and sometimes involve violence, including the use of firearms. In some cases, Jordanian security services are slow to respond or may opt to let the violence subside before intervening.

Syria and Iraq Borders: U.S. citizens should avoid the border areas with Syria and Iraq. All U.S. government personnel on official travel must receive prior permission to visit any area within 10 km of the Jordan-Syria border, except the tourist site of Umm Qais or the city of Irbid. U.S. government personnel must also have permission for official travel on Highway 10 east of the town of Ruwayshid toward the Iraq border, or for official visits to refugee camps anywhere in Jordan. Personal travel by U.S. government employees to the border areas or refugee camps is not permitted. Police and security officials have arrested weapon and drug smugglers, as well as foreign fighters attempting to enter Syria to fight in the country’s ongoing conflict. In the past, fighting in Syria has occurred close to Syria’s border with Jordan, and some munitions have landed within Jordan’s borders. On June 21, 2016, ISIS conducted a car bombing attack against a Jordanian military facility in the country’s northeast, along the border with Syria, killing seven Jordanian soldiers. The Department of State warns against all travel into Syria and Iraq. Please see the Travel Advisories and Country Information for Syria and Iraq for further information.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press with some restrictions. Insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detainment or imprisonment. Additionally, the Jordanian government considers proselytizing to Muslims (including the distribution of religious material) illegal, and anyone undertaking these activities is subject to prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation. Please see the information below on Islam as the state religion of Jordan.

Jordanian courts may impose criminal penalties, including imprisonment, for alleged infractions that in the United States would be resolved in civil courts. The U.S. Embassy is aware of several cases involving business or financial disputes that resulted in lengthy pre-trial detention and imprisonment under local financial crimes laws.

It is illegal to use, possess and/or distribute drugs, including marijuana and its derivatives, in Jordan. Jordan has strict drug laws and enforces them readily. Drug possession/use is one of the five main offenses that falls under the umbrella of the state security court and is subject to a different set of criminal procedures than other offenses. Accused offenders can be detained for up to two weeks without charges. In addition, after being referred to the state security public prosecutor, the accused offender can be detained for an additional 15 days renewable for further investigation, as long as the extension does not exceed a total of two months. This delay can result in the Embassy not being notified about the detainment because an official arrest has not taken place.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are a U.S citizen and are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Family Circumstances: The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases where U.S. citizens have been subject to domestic violence and abandonment by their spouses, including incidents of restrictions of movement through travel holds, loss of custody of children or forced marriage. Women and children should pay particular attention to any warning signs, including husbands or other family members withholding money or travel documents after arrival in Jordan. Cases of domestic violence should be reported to the Family Protection Department. Travelers should also be aware that U.S. laws cannot protect U.S. citizens when they are outside of the United States.

Travel Holds: Under Jordanian law, any adult male may prevent his minor children from leaving Jordan by simply registering a hold on their travel with the Jordanian authorities. Adults may place travel holds on their spouses pursuant to a court order from a Jordanian court. Adult male relatives (uncles, brothers, grandfathers) may also petition Jordanian courts for a travel hold on their unmarried adult female relatives. Immigration officials may prevent minor children traveling with their mothers from departing Jordan without the father’s affirmative consent. This is possible even if the child or woman holds only U.S. nationality. Jordanian authorities consider disputes surrounding travel holds as private family matters, and the Embassy is extremely limited in its ability to intervene. Travel holds may only be removed by the person who placed them or by a court. Please see Jordan’s International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA) page for further information.

Male Military Requirement: U.S. citizen males who also hold Jordanian citizenship may be subject to laws that impose military service obligations on Jordanians. Jordanian men under age 40 are required to register for service in the Jordanian military. Those subject to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until exit permission is obtained from appropriate Jordanian authorities. This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but may take some time to obtain and may be limited to a single exit.

Dual Citizenship: The Government of Jordan considers U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals to be Jordanian citizens. Local authorities typically do not notify the U.S. Embassy of arrests, detentions, or accidents involving dual nationals. For this reason, dual nationals in particular should carry copies of their U.S. passports with them at all times so that evidence of their identity and U.S. citizenship is readily available for local authorities.

For additional information, see our information on Dual Nationality.

Customs: Jordanian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Jordan of items such as drugs, firearms, poisons, chemicals, explosives, pornographic materials, communications equipment, drones and antiquities, among other items. You should contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Washington, D.C., or one of the Jordanian consulates in the United States, if you seek specific information regarding customs requirements.

Please also refer to our Customs Information page for additional information.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones): Tourists’ use of smaller drones is becoming increasingly popular. However, drones are illegal for personal use in Jordan, and persons seeking to bring any drone into Jordan must first obtain pre-authorization and approval from authorities before entry and use.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The Jordanian government generally does not interfere in religious practices. Some religious groups, however, cannot obtain legal recognition of their denominations. On official documents such as birth and wedding certificates, the Government of Jordan only allows affiliation with legally recognized faiths: Islam, certain Christian denominations, and Judaism. Not listing an affiliated faith or listing a faith outside those recognized by the government is generally not permitted. Activities such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to any faith other than Islam are prohibited. U.S. citizens have been detained, arrested, denied re-entry and/or deported for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in discussions about religion, even if such discussions also involve other activities, such as humanitarian aid. Jordanian officials may not warn individuals before a detention, arrest, denial of entry or deportation; any warnings received should be taken extremely seriously.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Jordan. However, laws against adultery or breaches of modesty may be used against LGBTI travelers. Public displays of affection between individuals in general, and especially of the same sex are not considered culturally acceptable. Foreigners exhibiting such behavior or expressing themselves outside of traditional gender norms in terms of dress or appearance may face greater risk of official and societal harassment and/or be targets of violence. Gay and lesbian Jordanians frequently hide their sexuality, even from family members. Family members who discover that a relative is LGBTI may target them for “honor” crimes.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. While in Jordan, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is found in the United States. Outside of a few upscale hotels in the capital, individuals with disabilities will find almost no accessible accommodations. Similarly, there are very few accessible restaurants, shops, or historical sites. Transportation is not accessible and sidewalks and crosswalks, even in the main cities, are not accessible. Handicap-accessible toilets and bathrooms, even in major hospitals, are generally not available. However, at least one local NGO (accessiblejordan.com) has created a website which reports accessibility of tourist sites and other locations in Jordan. Travelers who rely on special accessibility requirements or assistance are encouraged to research on-line before planning travel to Jordan.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: Women visiting and residing in Jordan have reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault. The Embassy continues to receive sporadic reports regarding incidents of harassment and sexual assaults involving taxis and taxi drivers. Some have included physical assaults. To reduce the likelihood of being victimized, women should take precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, traveling alone, and riding in the front seat of a taxi. Additionally, dress modestly when in public. Carrying a cell phone at all times is recommended. Immediately report any incidents to the Family Protection Department by calling 911. See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Modern medical care and medicines are generally available in Jordan’s main cities but not always in outlying areas. Most acute and chronic medical conditions can be treated. When called, ambulances are often slow to arrive and personnel generally have only a basic level of training. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially in Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment or a high deposit for services.

Seasonal dust storms that envelop the country for days or weeks each spring may significantly aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or sinus problems.

For emergency services in Jordan, dial 911.

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate health facilities are available in Amman but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling.

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Jordan.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Jordan.
• Persons traveling to Jordan for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

• Surrogacy is illegal in Jordan.

Water Quality:

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

 Air Quality:

• The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the spring. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Jordan, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions and driving habits that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Jordan is provided for general reference only and may not be completely accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

U.S. Embassy Amman has advised its employees to avoid driving at night outside the Amman metropolitan area due to road conditions, poorly lighted rural roads, livestock crossings, and erratic behavior by other drivers. 

It is typical for drivers in Jordan not to signal for turns or lane changes. Drivers tend to be aggressive and inattentive to surroundings, and cars operate very closely together on highways. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from October to March. Heavy snowfall can occur in winter months (December to February), making many roads – even major highways – impassable for several days. Driving in Amman also is hazardous in the summer months of June to September when Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highway traffic is heavy around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits.

The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, the Dead Sea Highway from Amman, and the King’s Highway between Petra and Madaba, all popular tourist routes, are dangerous because they are narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. Try to avoid using these roads at night. When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should beware of unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions with livestock are common.

Muwaqqar road (also known as Highway 40) which runs from the Desert Highway east to Al-Azraq city is dangerous due to poor road conditions, poor shoulders, and a high volume of heavy truck traffic. This road is the scene of frequent vehicular accidents, including fatal collisions. This road leads to several popular tourist sites, the “Desert Castles,” but motorists should use this road with caution.    

As a result of these factors, traffic accidents are frequent and continue to be the largest cause of unnatural death in Jordan.

There have been reported attacks on various tourist buses on the highway between Amman and Aqaba, known as the Desert Highway, due to ongoing business or tribal disputes. Attackers, who are believed to be private citizens, throw objects often resulting in broken windshields and interrupted trips.

Licensed drivers must carry local third-party insurance with sufficient coverage for accidents resulting in injury or death. Drivers who are involved in an accident should remain at the scene and immediately call the police and emergency personnel in case injuries have occurred. Police frequently hold the driver’s license or passport in order to prevent the driver from fleeing. Identification documents can be recovered at the police station. It is common for foreign drivers to be blamed for accidents, regardless of the actual circumstances of the incident. Following an accident, the other party may file criminal or civil charges to seek damages. U.S. citizen drivers have occasionally been detained by police as a result. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizen drivers in a traffic accident retain private legal counsel.

Traffic Laws: Drivers must have a valid Jordanian license or a valid foreign license with an International Driving Permit to drive in Jordan. U.S. visitors who intend to drive should obtain an International Driving Permit before travel to Jordan. Temporary visitors may use their valid American driver's licenses only to rent “green” plated rental cars.

• Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts.
• All cars must have a fire extinguisher and warning triangle in the vehicle.
• Child car seats are not required by law.
• Fines for speeding can exceed 140 USD. Speed cameras are installed on many roads in Jordan.
• Talking on a cell phone while driving is prohibited. If stopped by police, drivers may face a fine.

Police may pull over speeding drivers, as well as those believed to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Public Transportation: Jordan has abundant taxi and ride-share services. Please see the Crime section for more information on sexual harassment and assault involving taxi drivers, as well as safety tips when using public or private transportation. Visitors should make arrangements for taxis via their hotel and request that drivers not pick up additional passengers en route to their destinations. On-call taxi services, such as Uber and Careem, also operate in Jordan. Licensed on-call taxi drivers will have government-issued license sticker on the upper corner of the vehicle windshield on the passenger seat side. Some on-call taxi drivers operate without a license and are subject to possible traffic violations. Mass transportation options, are not recommended and U.S. personnel at Embassy Amman are not authorized to use public buses due to security and safety concerns. Jordanian security authorities often establish checkpoints, especially on roads leading to popular tourist destinations, where drivers are expected to stop and present their identity documents. All drivers should stop when directed to do so and comply with the instructions provided to them by the authorities.

Emergencies should be referred to the Civil Defense Department by dialing 911.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. For information on driving regulations, please contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, by telephone at (202) 966-2664.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Jordan’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Jordan’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Due to ongoing military activity throughout Syria, the FAA has issued guidance prohibiting U.S. air carriers from flight operations in Syrian airspace, and cautioning those carriers concerning operations in neighboring airspaces. Further information may be found on the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Jordan should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.