If you’re planning your trip to Jordan, someone might say, “Isn’t a trip to Jordan dangerous?” or “What? Jordan? Isn’t there a war there too?” Okay, geographically speaking, Jordan is in a really bad location, as it’s right next door to Israel, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Syria. We have to honestly admit, however, that we were never afraid or concerned about traveling to Jordan.

“It’ll be fine, just go for it!” Jordan has always been one of our dream destinations, and we were so excited about the country, its culture, its landscapes, and its many highlights. In the following article you will learn everything about safety in Jordan and get lots of tips for planning your trip.

What else you should know:

  • What else you should know:
  • Safety in Jordan – The Situation
  • Information from the Federal Foreign Office
  • Crime in the Country
  • Safety and Rental Cars
  • Religions and Cultures
  • Safety in Jordan – Nature & Climate
  • Traveling Alone as a Woman
  • Homosexuality in Jordan (LGBT)
  • Safety in Jordan – Tips on Behavior
  • Conclusion on Safety in Jordan

Safety in Jordan – The Situation

Jordan is located in the midst of the crisis regions of Israel, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It’s no wonder that many travelers are worried and unsure whether they should even travel to this country. The country suffers greatly from the bad reputation of other countries, but maintains peaceful relations with neighboring regions. So, there’s really nothing to worry about; the situation is relatively stable. In general, Jordan is one of the most stable and safest countries in the Arab world. According to online reports, terrorist attacks can still occur, but more on that later.

Information from the Federal Foreign Office

We always get the most important information in advance from the Federal Foreign Office website. They advise against traveling to the Syrian-Jordanian border region and to the northeast of the country, the border region with Iraq. Since Jordan lies next to Iraq and Syria, there is a nationwide risk of terrorist attacks. If you are in busy places or at certain events with large numbers of people, always be alert. Disputes can always arise.

Demonstrations and protests often take place, especially in and around Amman (the capital). Disputes and traffic disruptions can occur here. We also recommend that you refrain from attending such events and stay away from large crowds. You can find out about the current situation in the country through the local media (e.g., Jordan Times).

Crime in the country

Crime exists in almost every country, including Jordan. However, the rate is very low. We are generally very cautious when traveling and monitor the situation closely. Pickpockets are particularly active in Amman. But carjackings, break-ins (Dead Sea/Wadi Mujib), and sexual offenses also occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Never leave your valuables visible in your car, and it’s best to park your car where the parking lot is also guarded.

Safety in Jordan Aqaba Mosque

You should also safely store cash, ID cards, driver’s license, and other important documents. If you are a woman traveling alone through Jordan, it’s best to have a trusted person accompany you. Better safe than sorry! As in any other country, you should be careful with your credit card in Jordan. Always keep one hand over the PIN and never give your important documents and cards to anyone.

Safety and Rental Cars

We booked a rental car before our trip and traveled through the country on our own. At no point were we afraid of driving our own car. Outside of the major cities, traffic is completely relaxed; you share the road with a few cars. The main roads are also generally in very good condition, which is why we got from point A to point B quickly. Potholes are a regular occurrence, as are speed bumps, which are sometimes difficult to see.

Safety in Jordan Wadi Rum Tour

It’s best not to drive at night; there may be animals, people, and unlit vehicles on the road. The driving behavior of some road users is also not particularly commendable, so always drive with foresight. If you’re driving into the desert without a guide (only with an off-road vehicle!), you should have enough gas, a navigation system, water, and food with you beforehand. It would also be a good idea to inform someone about your trip beforehand. Everything about driving and rental cars here.

Religions and Cultures

As you probably know, Jordan is a Muslim country. The people are incredibly hospitable, cosmopolitan, and warm; we haven’t had any bad experiences. Furthermore, there has been peace in Jordan for many years, so you don’t really notice the unrest around you.

Respect local customs and religious sensibilities, dress appropriately, and definitely not too revealingly. You can, of course, wear shorts, but you’ll definitely feel like you’re being watched. It’s better to bring light, long linen trousers, a shirt with sleeves, and avoid low-cut necklines. As a woman, you don’t need a headscarf.

Safety in Jordan – Nature & Climate

The eastern and southern parts of Jordan have a desert climate, while the Red Sea coast has a subtropical climate. During the summer months, it gets very hot in these regions (over 40°C), so you should bring adequate sun protection (sunscreen, hat), as well as plenty of water.

Don’t underestimate the heat and postpone strenuous physical activities until the morning or early evening. In autumn and winter, long periods of drought can lead to floods and flash floods. We generally recommend a guide or tour group for all outdoor activities.

Rock City of Petra: Safety in Jordan

Earthquakes can occur in the west of the country due to the seismically active zone. We advise you to check the local weather forecast regularly and seek information in a timely manner. You should take prohibitions, signs, and warnings seriously and follow them. We don’t want to paint the devil on the wall, but this is all information you should hear at some point. If you have any questions while you’re there, always ask the locals for answers. They are always friendly and helpful.

Traveling alone as a woman

We almost always travel as a couple and can only give you the information we found online. It’s said that women traveling alone get along very well in Jordan. You should make sure you dress appropriately and avoid walking through the streets alone at night.

If you want to visit a mosque, you should bring a headscarf; you can sometimes borrow one at the mosque entrances. Many websites say that traveling through the country as a woman is problem-free. You can find a nice report about it here: Female Solo Traveling in Jordan and Israel.

Homosexuality in Jordan (LGBT)

That’s a topic! While sexual acts between people of the same sex are not prohibited by law, homosexuality is not tolerated in society. They do not recognize same-sex marriage, and you should respect that when traveling to this country. In private life in Amman, you are supposed to find communities, and there is also an online LGBT magazine, as well as various blogs on the topic.

Safety in Jordan – Tips on Behavior

  • No shorts for men (considered ridiculous)
  • Women should not dress too revealingly, prefer long trousers/skirts
  • A swimsuit is recommended on beaches
  • No displays of affection in public
  • Take off your shoes before entering a mosque
  • Haggling over prices in markets is part of the experience
  • Photos: Not everyone wants to be photographed! Ask first!
  • Military buildings are not allowed to be photographed
  • Do not refuse invitations to tea
  • Use your right hand when eating (the left is considered “unclean”)
  • Never criticize the royal family or the religion
  • Most people have no understanding of atheism

Conclusion on safety in Jordan

We hope this article has been helpful. Jordan is a wonderful country and awaits you with many highlights and adventures. When it comes to safety, trust your instincts, be mindful and cautious. As long as you follow a few rules, your trip to Jordan will be a complete success. We found the people there to be incredibly friendly and open-minded. Don’t have any concerns or worries before or during a trip to Jordan, but enjoy the country to the fullest. And what do they always say? “Ahlan wa Sahlan fi Al-Urdun” – Welcome to Jordan.