Jordan Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2 and the change to Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to safety risks, and to add the “other” risk indicator. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. Reconsider Travel to Jordan due to  terrorism and armed conflict . Advisory Summary On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government ...

🇬🇧 UK Foreign Office (FCDO)

New information about the land border crossings with Saudi Arabia, Israel, Palestine, Syria and Iraq and sea crossing with Egypt (‘Entry requirements’ page).

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Jordan safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Tourist Police: 196. Jordan Civil Defence: 199. Emergency response in Amman is reliable. In rural areas and Wadi Rum desert, response times can be long.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Private hospitals in Amman are of good quality. Jordan University Hospital is the main teaching hospital. Specialty Hospital caters to international patients. English is widely spoken in the medical sector.

Insurance: Travel insurance with medical coverage recommended. Jordan has good medical infrastructure. Medical evacuation coverage recommended for adventure activities (Wadi Rum, Dead Sea).

💊 Medication Restrictions

Jordan has strict drug laws — possession, use, or trafficking can result in lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines. Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter, ideally translated into Arabic. Controlled substances should be declared at customs with supporting medical documentation.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Controlled prescription drugs; must carry original prescription and doctor's letter. Arabic translation recommended
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines are strictly prohibited in Jordan; Adderall is not recognized as legitimate medication. Do not bring—severe penalties
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: All cannabis products including CBD are illegal; zero tolerance policy with potential imprisonment
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled but recognized for ADHD treatment; carry prescription, doctor's letter, and prior approval from Jordanian MOH recommended
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine-containing medications require prescription; stronger opioids may need advance MOH approval. Keep in original packaging

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Expected in restaurants (10%), hotels (JD 1-2/day for housekeeping), taxis (round up), and for guides (JD 5-10 per day). Jordan has a tipping culture influenced by tourism.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Public affection between unmarried couples
• Entering mosques without permission or inappropriate dress
• Photography of military installations, government buildings, or uniformed personnel
• Public criticism of the King or Royal Family
• Drinking alcohol in public outside licensed establishments

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Jordan: