Jordan

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 911 for emergencies

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (buses, trains, and commercial flights)

The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan.

Terrorist groups

Transnational and indigenous terrorist groups can plan and carry out attacks in Jordan.

• Violent extremist groups in Syria and Iraq, including the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) and al-Qa’ida, have attacked or supported attacks in Jordan.
• Terrorist groups continue to plot against local security forces, U.S. and foreign interests, and “soft” targets, such as high-profile public events, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, schools, and malls.
• Jordan’s key role in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and its shared borders with Iraq and Syria increase the risk of future attacks. Although Jordan is relatively stable, regional tensions make the security situation complex and unpredictable.
• 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.

Restrictions on U.S. government employees

• Please refer to the travel advisory above for currents restrictions on where U.S. government employees can travel in Jordan. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur in Jordan with varying degrees of frequency. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• In general, demonstrations in Jordan remain peaceful. However, some have turned violent, even when the intent is peaceful. This has led security officials to intervene.
• Avoid all protests and large gatherings.
• When demonstrations occur, they are more frequently on Thursday evenings near government buildings and on Fridays near mosques following mid-day prayers. Be especially cautious when visiting or traveling near mosques and religious sites during holy days and Fridays.
• Unrest has also occurred on public university campuses. Some acts of violence have involved the use of firearms.
• Although mostly peaceful, anti-U.S. demonstrations have also taken place in front of the U.S. embassy. 

Crime

• Petty crime is the most common form of crime, 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. Stay alert in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan.
• Jordanian police advise being vigilant when leaving banks or ATMs to avoid theft.
• Thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery, and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported. Avoid displaying valuables in your car or on yourself. Always lock car doors and windows.
• Violent crime happens, but it rarely targets U.S. citizens or other foreigners.
• Celebratory gunfire is common, especially during major festivals, sporting events, or the biannual release of high school test scores.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Jordan. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic” relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Lotteries
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Jordan:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact local law enforcement by dialing 911. Ask to be put in touch with the Family Protection Directorate, part of the national police. It is staffed 24/7 and has some English-speaking personnel.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence and sexual assault are also encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at 6-590-6950.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

• Drones and satellite phones and radios are illegal and may not be brought into Jordan. These items will be confiscated, and travelers could face a fine.
• People seeking to bring any drones into Jordan must first obtain pre-authorization and approval from authorities before entry and use.

Syria and Iraq borders

U.S. citizens should stay away from the border areas with Syria and Iraq.

• All U.S. government personnel on official travel must receive prior permission to visit any area within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border. This rule does not apply to the tourist site of Umm Qais or the city of Irbid.
• U.S. government personnel must also have permission for official travel on Highway 40 to the towns of Mansheyat al Ghayyath and Ruwayshid toward the Iraq border, or for official visits to refugee camps anywhere in Jordan.
• Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas and refugee camps is not permitted.
• Police and security officials have arrested smugglers of weapons and drugs. They have also captured foreign fighters trying to enter Syria to join the ongoing conflict. In the past, fighting in Syria has happened near Syria’s border with Jordan. Some munitions have landed inside Jordan.
• The Department of State warns against all travel into Syria and Iraq. Please review the Travel Advisories for Syria and Iraq for further information.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Jordan seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press, but with some restrictions. Insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detention or imprisonment.
• Proselytizing to Muslims is illegal. This includes the distribution of religious material. Those who do so may face prosecution, imprisonment, or deportation.
• Jordanian courts can impose criminal penalties, including imprisonment, for issues that in the United States would be civil matters. The U.S. embassy knows of cases where business or financial disputes led to long pre-trial detention under local financial crime laws.
• It is illegal to use, possess, or distribute drugs, including marijuana and its derivatives. Jordan has strict drug laws and enforces them readily.
• Drug possession or use is one of the 5 main offenses that falls under the umbrella of the state security court. It follows different criminal procedures than other offenses. Accused offenders can be detained for up to 2 weeks without charges. After being referred to the state security public prosecutor, detainees may face an additional 15 days of detention for investigation, extendable for up to 2 months. This can delay the embassy's notification about the detention.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Family circumstances 

The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases in Jordan where U.S. citizens faced domestic violence, abandonment by spouses, exit bans travel, loss of child custody, or forced marriage.

• Women should pay particular attention to any warning signs, including husbands or other family members withholding money or travel documents after arrival in Jordan.
• Report cases of domestic violence to the Family Protection Department through email [email protected] or by calling and going to the Family and Juvenile Protection Department within the residential area. U.S. laws cannot protect U.S. citizens when they are outside of the United States. You are also encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Travel holds

Under Jordanian law, any adult male may prevent his minor children from leaving Jordan by registering a hold on their travel with the Jordanian authorities.

• Adults may request that a Jordanian court order a travel hold on their spouse. Adult male relatives like uncles, brothers, and grandfathers, can 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 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. The U.S. 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 review Jordan’s International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA) page for further information.

Male military requirement 

• U.S. citizen males with Jordanian citizenship may face military service laws in Jordan.
• Men under 40 must register for military service. Those required to register might not be allowed to leave Jordan until they get exit permission from the proper authorities. This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but it can take time and may be limited to a singular departure from Jordan. 

Dual citizenship

The Government of Jordan considers U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals to be Jordanian citizens.

• Local authorities are not obligated to notify the U.S. embassy of arrests, detentions, or accidents involving dual nationals.
• Dual nationals should carry copies of their U.S. passports at all times. This ensures that proof of their identity and U.S. citizenship is easily accessible for local authorities.
• For additional information, review our information on Dual Nationality.

Customs 

Jordanian customs authorities have strict rules for importing or exporting items. These items include:

• Drugs
• Firearms
• Poisons and chemicals
• Explosives
• Pornographic materials
• Communications equipment
• Drones
• Antiquities

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.

• Review our information for Laws Abroad.

Religion

• Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The Jordanian government generally does not interfere in religious practices. However, some religious groups are not legally recognized in Jordan.
• On official documents such as birth and wedding certificates, the government only allows certain faiths: Islam, certain Christian denominations, and Judaism. Not listing an affiliated faith or listing an unrecognized one is not allowed.
• Proselytizing or encouraging conversion to any faith other than Islam is banned. U.S. citizens have faced detention, arrest, denied re-entry, or deportation for discussing religion with Jordanians, even if linked to humanitarian efforts. Jordanian officials may not give warnings before detaining or arresting someone. Any warnings received should be taken very seriously.

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Hajj and Umrah Information
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGB events in Jordan. However, laws against adultery or breaches of modesty may be used against gay or lesbian travelers.
• Public displays of affection, between anyone, but especially of the same sex, are not considered culturally acceptable.
• Foreign nationals showing such behavior or dressing outside of traditional sex norms may face harassment or violence.
• Many gay and lesbian Jordanians hide their sexuality, even from family. If family members learn that a relative is lesbian or gay, they may target them for “honor” crimes.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• Outside of a few upscale hotels in the capital, accessible accommodations are rare. There are also very few accessible restaurants, shops, or historical sites.
• Transportation poses challenges, as sidewalks and crosswalks, even in the main cities, are not often accessible.
• Handicap-accessible toilets and bathrooms, even in major hospitals, are generally not available. However, at least one local NGO has a website that reports accessibility of tourist sites and other locations in Jordan.
• Travelers who need special accessibility support should research online before planning their trip to Jordan. 
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

Women in Jordan have reported sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, and assault.

The U.S. Embassy continues to receive sporadic reports involving taxis and drivers. Some cases included physical assaults.

Safety precautions:

• Dial 911 to report any incidents to the Family Protection Department.
• Avoid traveling to unfamiliar areas at night.
• Do not travel alone.
• Do not ride in the front seat of a taxi.
• Dress modestly when in public.
• Carry a cell phone at all times.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage. 

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Jordan Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

Medical payments and insurance

• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Jordan. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Jordan.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Many hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Adequate health facilities are available in Amman. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• 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

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, know that their medical systems are different from the United States and do not abide by the same standards and regulations. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about 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 may be limited in Jordan.
• Persons traveling to Jordan for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Check the Embassy of Jordan’s website for more information.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check the attached list of drugs to ensure the medication is legal in Jordan.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Jordan. ART is present but available only to married couples.
• If you are considering traveling to Jordan to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• Consider requesting beverages without ice since it may be made using tap water.
• It is encouraged to consume bottled or filtered water. Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can potentially cause health issues. 

Air quality

The air quality varies considerably and changes 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

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Jordan.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

While in Jordan, U.S. citizens may find road conditions and driving habits quite different from those in the United States. Traffic accidents are frequent and continue to be the largest cause of unnatural death.

Here is some general information. It may not be completely accurate for every location or situation:

• U.S. Embassy Amman advises its employees to avoid driving at night outside the Amman metropolitan area. This is due to road conditions, poorly lit rural roads, livestock crossings, and erratic behavior by other drivers. 
• Drivers in Jordan often do not to signal for turns or lane changes. They can be aggressive and inattentive, with cars closely packed on highways. Roads are especially dangerous during the rainy season from October to March.
• Snowfall from December to February can make many roads – even major highways – impassable for several days.
• In the summer from June to September, driving in Amman is risky due to an influx of visitors. Highway traffic increases around Muslim holidays when many expatriates return home.
• The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, the Dead Sea Highway from Amman, and the King’s Highway between Petra and Madaba, are popular tourist routes but can be dangerous. These roads are narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. Try to avoid using these roads at night.
• When driving in both urban and rural areas, watch for unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions with livestock are common.
• Muwaqqar road (also known as Highway 40), which runs east from the Desert Highway to Al-Azraq city, is dangerous due to poor road conditions, poor shoulders, and heavy truck traffic. This road sees frequent accidents, including fatal ones. The road leads to several popular tourist sites, the “Desert Castles,” but motorists should exercise caution.
• Licensed drivers must carry local third-party insurance with adequate coverage for injuries and death. If involved in an accident, remain at the scene and immediately call the police and emergency services if there are injuries.
• Police may hold the driver’s license or passport to prevent 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 (IDP) to drive in Jordan. You must get the IDP before traveling 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. 

Taxis and rideshares

Jordan has abundant taxi and ride-share services.

• Check the Crime section  for more information on sexual harassment and assault involving taxi drivers, along with safety tips when using public or private transportation.
• Book taxis via your hotel. Request that drivers do not pick up extra passengers on the way to your destinations.
• On-call taxi services, such as Uber and Careem, also operate in Jordan.
• Licensed on-call taxi drivers will have a government-issued sticker on the upper corner of the passenger windshield. Some on-call taxi drivers may not have a license and could face traffic violations. 

Public and commercial transportation

Mass transportation is not recommended.

• U.S. personnel at Embassy Amman cannot use public buses due to safety concerns.
• Jordanian security often set up checkpoints, especially near tourist spots.
• Drivers must stop and show their identity documents when asked. All drivers should comply with instructions from authorities.
• Dial 911 in case of emergencies to speak with the Civil Defense Department.
• For information on driving regulations, please contact:

Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
3504 International Drive NW
Washington, DC 20008
Phone at 202-966-2664

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Jordan’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.
• Due to ongoing military activity throughout Syria, the FAA has issued guidance prohibiting U.S. air carriers from flight operations in Syrian airspace. It cautions those carriers when operating in adjacent airspaces. More information may be found on the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Jordan should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Flash Flooding

Certain areas of Jordan, including Petra and the Dead Sea, often face heavy rain and flash flooding from October to March.

• Roads and bridges may become blocked, leading the Jordanian government to close tourist areas completely.
• The first rain of the season often causes flooding throughout Amman and other cities. It is important to follow weather reports and local recommendations.
• The Jordanian government may also send Arabic text messages to all registered cell phones during severe weather, like heavy rain.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates