Jordan Travel Safety

Road safety

Traffic accidents are very common. Driving habits and styles differ markedly from those practised in many countries. Drivers tend to be aggressive and drive very close to each other. It is typical for drivers not to use signals to indicate turns or lane changes. It is very common for drivers to talk or text on mobile phones while driving, even though this is illegal in Jordan. You should avoid driving at night, as roaming animals and insufficient lighting create hazards after dark. If you are involved in an accident, contact the police immediately by calling 911 from a local phone. In the event of traffic accidents resulting in personal injury, drivers may be held for several days until responsibility is determined and restitution made. Off-road driving can be hazardous and should only be undertaken in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles with an experienced guide. Leave a travel itinerary with a family member or friend. Be well prepared and equipped with gasoline, water, food and a cellular phone. Public transportation is usually very crowded and can be uncomfortable. Cleanliness and mechanical reliability of taxis varies considerably. Book taxis through hotels.

Regional travel

If travelling from Jordan to neighbouring countries, ensure that you obtain your visas prior to departure from your country. These countries normally will not issue visas at border crossings to individuals without a Jordanian residency permit. For more info contact the respective embassy or consulate of these countries.

Border areas

Landmines and unexploded munitions are still a danger near military installations and borders, including the Dead Sea area. Minefields are usually fenced and marked, but could be difficult to see. Do not touch suspicious or unfamiliar objects. Exercise caution at the border with Israel, especially if using service taxis when crossing the border, as it may close on short notice.

Women's safety

There have been a number of reports of sexual harassment and assaults. Women should avoid clothing that could be construed as revealing, such as miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless or low-cut (front or back) blouses and tops. Travel in groups and in daylight. When taking a taxi, women should sit in the back seat as it could be taken in a different way. Women have been detained when reporting sexual assault because they must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid being charged under extramarital sex statutes.

Scams

Victims are usually lured out of their car as the result of a minor collision or by another car blocking their route. If you are involved in an accident in an isolated area, stay in your car and call the police at 911.

Crime

The crime rate is low by regional standards but petty crime occurs, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Do not show signs of affluence and always keep your personal belongings, passports and travel documents secure. Carjacking attempts have been reported in Amman.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Targets could include police and government buildings, places of worship, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, bars, liquor stores, transportation hubs, tourist attractions and other sites frequented by foreigners. Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places.

Dress and behaviour

The country's customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Women should avoid clothing that could be construed as revealing, such as miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless or low-cut (front or back) blouses and tops. During the lunar month of Ramadan, refrain from drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Avoid physical contact, including holding hands, in public.

LGBT

While Jordanian law may not explicitly prohibit homosexual acts, public displays of affection between homosexual couples are not generally tolerated. You could be arrested under other Jordanian laws.

Illegal or restricted activities

It is forbidden to photograph government buildings and military installations. Do not photograph people without their permission.

Driving

You may drive rental cars in Jordan with a valid an International Driving Permit. If you wish to drive any other vehicle, you must have a Jordanian driver's license. If a pedestrian is injured in an accident, the driver is always considered guilty and may face imprisonment and heavy fines.