is travel to amman jordan safe

Update April 12, 2024

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Jordan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, jordan - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to  terrorism . Some areas have increased risk. 

Do not travel to:

• Within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria and east of the town of Ruwayshid in the direction of the border with Iraq due to  terrorism and armed conflict.
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to  Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps .
• Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to  terrorism  and  crime.

Reconsider travel to:

• Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate due to  terrorism  and  crime .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue to plot possible attacks in Jordan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Jordan.

If you decide to travel to Jordan:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Jordan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Border with Syria and Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Jordan's border with Syria and Iraq given the continued threat of cross-border violence, including the risk of terrorist attacks.

All U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for all official travel within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border, and all travel must occur during day light hours only. U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for official travel east of the town of Ruwayshid towards the Iraq border, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas is not authorized.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Refugee Camps – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to the four designated Syrian refugee camps listed below (formerly all refugee camps in Jordan) must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions.

• Azraq Syrian Refugee Camp, Azraq, Zarqa
• Za’atari Syrian Refugee Camp, Al Zatryah, Mafraq
• King Abdullah Park Syrian Refugee Camp, Ramtha, Irbid
• Emirati Jordanian Syrian Refugee Camp (Murijep al Fhoud), Al Jadedah, Zarqa

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these refugee camps is not authorized. 

Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a Neighborhood of Ayn Basha – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.  U.S. government personnel may transit through these cities on major highways during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these cities is not authorized.

Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to Ma’an city, all areas of Ma’an Governorate east of Highway 15 (“The Desert Highway”) and all areas of Ma’an Governorate within 2 kilometers to the west of Highway 15 due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions. U.S. government personnel on official travel may transit through this area on major highways outside of daylight hours.  

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is permitted during daylight hours only, with the exception of direct transit through these areas, which may also occur during hours of darkness.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is Amman Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Jordan : Safety by City

Amman is the capital and largest city in  Jordan .

Besides the fact that it has four million inhabitants, the city is generally reasonably well-organized and people are very friendly.

It is divided into the eastern part of the city, which is the area of the working class and is much older than the more modern western part.

When visiting Amman, you should go to Roman Amphitheatre, art galleries and Jordan Museum, or try its delicious cuisine.

Districts like Weibdeh, which is a very nice area for entertainment or Dabouq, a very wealthy area, are both safe and interesting to visitors.

• Warnings & Dangers in Amman

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Even though there are certain risks in Amman, it is still considered as the safest capital in the region. Pickpockets are operating in crowded areas, the risk of mugging and scam risk exists, but there are no reports of serious criminal acts against tourists recently.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

The public transport is dangerous because of the high risks of terrorist attacks that might occur there. Also, rush hours should be avoided and if you decide to take a rental car, make sure you have extra liability insurance for your car. Yellow and grey taxis are available and can be easily found anywhere in Amman, while white taxis are shared, and they have a specific route. You should ask the driver to turn on the meter. Never accept lifts from strangers.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Crime level when it comes to pickpocketing is medium, which means that occasional bag snatching and theft from cars happen, so tourists need to be vigilant and keep their money and passport in a safe place. Jordanian police are doing its best to protect people from thieves.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The risk of natural hazards exists and floods can occur during winter. Jordan is located in an active earthquake zone and rockfalls and landslides can occur.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The fact that there is almost no kidnapping or mugging risk in the city does not make it fully safe since terrorist groups operating in Syria use kidnapping as a tactic. The ransoms are considered to make the hostage-taking even more developed.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorism risk is very high here and attacks could occur anywhere, especially in places visited by foreigners, particularly hotels, shopping malls, and tourist sites. The authorities in Jordan are doing their best to stop the terrorist groups from attacking and have successfully prevented several planned attacks.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There are very harsh punishments for criminal acts, but still safety level is medium. Some scams are made by the taxi drivers when the meter is in fils, not in dinars, and vendors sell goods as they are handmade, when in fact they are imported from abroad. Scammers can be found in tourist areas, targeting single women travelers and are aimed at stealing money.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Jordan is a Muslim country and Jordanian people are mostly very welcoming to any foreign visitors. Still, reports of cases of sexual assault against foreign women are increasing recently. Female visitors should avoid traveling alone even during daylight hours, and consider dressing modestly when in public.

• So... How Safe Is Amman Really?

Regarding the fact that Amman has a location score of 53 when it comes to safety, it is not such a safe place to visit.

Even though people consider that it is safe to walk anywhere in the city at any time of day or night, precaution is obligatory.

Serious crime is extremely rare, but the terrorist threat exists.

What is even worse is that the extremists have expressed a desire to attack targeting Western visitors in Jordan.

Considering the fact that it has a population of more than 4 million inhabitants, generally speaking, the state of criminality in Amman is moderate, with the most common threats like pickpocketing and bag snatching.

If you are a watchful and experienced tourist, the chances of running into trouble are rare.

• How Does Amman Compare?
• Useful Information

When coming to Amman, a valid passport and a visa are required. You can get a single entry visa valid for 1 month on arrival at the airports, and if you decide to stay longer in Amman, you can extend your visa up to a maximum period of 6 months. If you overstay your visa you will be fined. If you have previously visited Israel, this might cause some difficulties when entering Jordan.

Jordanian dinar is the official currency of Jordan. Cash machines can be found throughout Amman, as well as ATMs.

Hot summers and short winters are characteristic of Amman's climate, with a minimum of 6°C in January and 38°C in summer. Winter lasts from the end of November to mid-March and snow occasionally falls once or twice a year. The most rain falls between October and April.

Most travelers to Amman come via Queen Alia International Airport, located in east Amman, a few kilometers beyond the railway station. This is the largest one in Jordan, used by approximately 40 airlines from around the world.

Travel Insurance

A travel insurance policy that will cover both medical problems and theft is the important fact when visiting Jordan.

Amman Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Jordan - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

5 Reviews on Amman

Terrorism alert exaggerated.

The last time Amman had a terrorist attack was in 2005. Even Australia has had a few terrorist scares and minor attacks (car ploughs, 2014 siege, stabbings), and yet you don’t put that country on high alert. Sure, Jordan is surrounded by countries that spawn Islamic terror, but so far it has been pretty safe.

This review is inaccurate and not reliable.. The most dangerous thing that can happen to you in Jordan is getting overcharged for things in local shops for being a foreigner (doesn’t happen everywhere). As for women chances of being catcalled is somewhat high depending on the place you’re in. For example: in Amman, Salt, Madaba and tourist spots you can wear whatever you want and if someone does sth that makes you uncomfortable you can call the cops on them, or even yell at them I assure you that other locals will help you out (Catcalling is illegal in Jordan and is enough to charge someone). I would advise women to wear modest clothes in other cities like Zarqa, Irbid, Mafraq.. local women get sexually harassed so I would assume that foreign women might stand out more in the streets. If you’re traveling with a male companion the chances of getting catcalled or sexually harassed are probably down to 5%. Other than that, terrorist attacks and mugging don’t exist in Jordan! What would Syrian terrorists be doing in Jordan?

You know nothing about Jordan. Walk alone at night in Zarqa and tell me what will happen.

Wrong Ratings

Amman is probably safer than all of Europe, these ratings are completely inaccurate.

The city is classified as safe from New York, Washington and Madrid and it is one of the security of countries in the world but some there is exaggeration but a warning I have visited Jordan 5 times and it was beautiful

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Article Contents

• Amman : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? Latest travel advice

The foreign office has updated its travel advice for jordan following iran’s strikes on israel. here’s what you need to know.

J ordan is in a rare position in the Middle East — it shares a land border with both Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. While the country hasn’t been directly involved in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, there have been protests over the war and it has been a key mediator.

Jordan has come under added scrutiny since Iran fired hundreds of drones and missiles into Israel on April 13, of which nearly all were intercepted. Jordan’s air force was involved in intercepting and shooting down dozens of Iranian drones that violated its airspace and were heading to Israel, with its government saying it would “confront anything that would expose the security and safety of the nation”.

In response to this latest escalation, the UK’s Foreign Office has updated its guidance to travellers, warning them to monitor its travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast.

Meanwhile, the country’s tourism board has emphasised that it remains “safe and welcoming” to tourists, and that its focus is the “safety and wellbeing” of all visitors who might want to explore the majestic Nabataean tombs at Petra and the mesmerising coastline along the Dead Sea, or understand the lives of the Bedouin people. Whether you have a trip coming up or are just beginning to plan one, here’s what you need to know.

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Jordan?

The UK Foreign Office continues to advise against all travel to anywhere within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria — this advice was in place before war broke out between Israel and Hamas . It considers the rest of the country to be generally safe for travel.

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Since January 11, US and UK forces have carried out strikes against Houthi bases in Yemen in response to the group’s continued attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. After the strikes began, the Foreign Office updated its travel advice for all neighbouring countries, including Jordan.

Following Iran’s drone and missile attack Israel on April 13, the Foreign Office has not expanded its “do not travel” zone, but it warned travellers to monitor its advice and other media as the situation is changing fast.

Has Jordan been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Jordan has not been directly affected by the war between Israel and Hamas, in the sense that it is not involved in any fighting. It has been among the Arab nations trying to broker peace between the two, and there have been protests within the country.

However, amid Iran’s attack on April 13, Jordan’s air force intercepted and shot down dozens of Iranian drones that violated its airspace and were heading to Israel. Reuters quoted two regional security sources as saying Jordanian jets shot down the missiles in order to ensure the safety of its citizens. The Jordanian government said in a statement that “some flying objects that entered our airspace last night were dealt with and confronted”.

Jordan came under added scrutiny because of a drone attack on January 28 on a US base near the Syria-Jordan border. Three US troops were killed and dozens more were injured; it is the first time US troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war in Gaza began. The Islamic Resistance of Iraq (IRI), an umbrella grouping of Iranian-aligned militias, has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to the UK Foreign Office.

On the situation in Jordan, the Foreign Office said: “The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders (air and land) in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the crossings between Jordan and Israel and the West Bank might be closed at short notice.

“In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Jordan and more protests have been planned over the coming days, including after Friday prayers. Some can be spontaneous and involve large numbers of people. You should avoid demonstrations and protests.” It added that “recent protests have also taken place in the vicinity of the Israeli and US Embassies”.

In a statement, the Jordanian tourist board said: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasise that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world. Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering and we want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists.”

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for other countries

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest government advice • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Latest travel advice • Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now?

The UK Foreign Office considers Jordan to be a safe destination and, aside from its advice on avoiding the border with Syria, has no warnings against travelling there. However, although most tourists have visited the country without incident, it is worth remaining vigilant.

Levels of crime are generally low in Jordan, with most incidents involving pickpocketing, bag snatching or theft from cars. You should keep your valuables secure and have your photo ID with you in case of checks.

According to the Foreign Office, disputes between tribes, families and other social groups can start without warning and turn violent or involve the use of firearms. It also states terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Jordan — these could take place at locations visited by tourists such as hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and tourist sites. The last high-profile incident was in November 2019, when a man carried out a knife attack at the Roman site in Jerash that left eight people injured.

What are Jordan’s entry requirements?

British citizens will need a visa to enter Jordan for tourism which can be obtained on arrival. Your passport will need to have a minimum of six months’ validity on the day you arrive.

A tourist visa costs 40 Jordanian dinars (about £46) and is valid for one month. The visa can be extended for up to six months once you’re in Jordan. However, if you stay in the country for more than 30 days, you’ll need to undergo a mandatory HIV test and obtain a health certificate, which currently costs 20 dinars (about £23).

If you’re leaving the country via one of the road borders, you’ll also need to pay an exit tax of ten dinars (about £11); those leaving the country on a flight are exempt.

• Best things to do do in Jordan • Best time to visit Jordan

Is Jordan safe for female travellers?

Jordan is generally safe for female travellers but they can receive unwanted attention, in the form of both verbal and physical harassment, in more remote areas of the country. The Foreign Office says that occasionally these situations have escalated and there has been an increase in reports of sexual assault.

Female travellers should therefore take care when walking or travelling alone, during the day as well as at night. They should also avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxi.

Is Jordan safe for LGBT travellers?

The Foreign Office says that Jordanian law does not “explicitly prohibit homosexual acts”. However, public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not generally tolerated and could lead to arrest under other Jordanian laws.

Can you drink alcohol in Jordan?

Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country but alcohol is permitted. However, it’s illegal to consume alcohol on the street — it’s only allowed in bars, clubs, hotels and private homes.

You should also be aware that during Ramadan, while restaurants in cities such as Amman remain open during the day, eating in the street is likely to cause problems.

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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Jordan .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Jordan

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Jordan.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• shopping malls
• restaurants
• tourist sites

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Examples of significant attacks include:

• in 2019, 8 people injured in a knife attack in the Roman site in Jerash
• in 2018, 2 officers killed and several others injured in Fuheis when an explosive device destroyed a gendarmerie vehicle

Political situation

The political situation in Jordan is stable but sometimes there are protests in Amman and other cities. There have been recent protests about the Gaza conflict near the Israeli and US embassies and downtown. You should:

• take particular care near these areas
• take care when travelling outside Amman, especially at night
• be aware of the possibility of large, spontaneous demonstrations

There is a heavy security presence and roadblocks can happen. Most protests are peaceful, but they can become confrontational. There may be heightened anti-western sentiment. You should:

• take sensible precautions
• follow news reports
• avoid all political gatherings and demonstrations
• follow the advice of local authorities

Red Sea military activity

There is a military response to Houthi militants’ attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea. The military activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, but travel advice for Jordan could change at short notice. You should monitor travel advice and follow instructions from local authorities.

Tribal violence

Tribal and social disputes may start without notice and become violent. You should:

• leave the area if caught in an incident
• follow any police instructions

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Crime levels are generally low, but there is a risk of pickpocketing, bag-snatching and theft from cars. Stay alert and keep your money, passport and valuables secure.

Street begging can be aggressive, particularly during Ramadan. Do not engage with beggars.

Sexual assault

Women travellers are often harassed and sexually assaulted by men. Take care when walking or travelling alone. Maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK. See advice for women travelling abroad .

You should not accept lifts from strangers. If you must use a taxi , you should:

• ask your hotel to recommend a reliable driver
• not ride in the front seat, particularly when travelling alone
• use Uber or Careem which are safer than yellow taxis

Laws and cultural differences

Jordan is a predominantly Islamic country. Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions so you do not cause offence.

Personal ID

The police carry out random security checks. Keep ID (passport or driving licence) with you to show at checkpoints. 

Alcohol laws

It’s illegal to drink alcohol on the street, but you can drink in bars, clubs, hotels and private homes.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

It is illegal to possess, use or traffic drugs. If convicted, you can get a lengthy prison sentence and heavy fine.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual relations are not illegal, but same-sex couples showing affection in public may cause offence. You could be arrested under other Jordanian laws. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Unmarried couples living together

It is socially unacceptable for unmarried foreign couples to live together. Some landlords may ask if you are married or request a marriage certificate.

Converting people to Christianity

It is illegal to encourage someone to convert to Christianity. You could face a prison sentence or a fine.

Visiting Petra 

The Petra Archaeological Park has strict visitor opening and closing hours. You risk arrest and prosecution if you are in the park outside of these hours. Tourists have been locked in Petra overnight.

Ask the tourist office staff if you’re unclear about ticket prices and before agreeing to additional charges.

Cash machines are only widely available in Amman and other major towns and cities. Most places accept card payments.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

For all activities, bring appropriate clothing and enough food and water for extreme temperatures.

Tour operators

The quality of tour operators providing outdoor activities varies. A list of all tour operators is available on the Visit Jordan website. Research tour operators and choose one with suitable safety mitigations and insurance in place.

Visiting wadis

There are around 80 wadis (valleys) in Jordan. During the rainy season from November to March there’s a risk of flash floods. Before travelling to a wadi, you should:

• check the weather forecast
• not travel to places after heavy rain for at least one day

If you’re caught in a flash flood, you should:

• go to a high point
• not attempt to cross the water
• try to drive to a dry spot
• contact Civil Defence on 911 if you need help

Scuba diving and snorkelling

Safety standards of diving operators in Aqaba can vary. You should:

• not dive or snorkel alone
• make bookings through your tour representative
• make sure the operator has a recognised accreditation, like PADI

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Jordan, see information on driving abroad .

You’ll need to have both the 1949 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Driving standards

Driving standards differ from those in the UK. Stray animals, broken-down vehicles and unmarked roadworks are common. There have been fatal accidents on the Desert Highway. Drive with care at night and avoid unlit roads.

Rules of the road

If you have an accident, do not leave the scene before the police arrive and take a statement. Call 911 to contact police.

The speed limit in urban areas is 40kph, 80kph on rural roads and 120kph on highways. The police issue 15 to 150 Jordanian dinar on-the-spot fines.

It is illegal to drive or ride in a front seat without a seatbelt or use a mobile phone while driving. You could get a fine. All cars must carry a fire extinguisher and warning triangle.

Driving in winter

Heavy snow can trap vehicles and block mountain roads, including around Petra. Take care and follow local restrictions.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

In the rainy season from November to March, the Jordanian government sometimes issues flood alerts, particularly along the Jordan Valley. Flood alerts can cause diversions and road closures, affecting drivers and hikers. There is a risk of flash flooding. Be alert to advisories and co-operate with the authorities.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Jordan travel advice

Latest updates: Safety and security – removed information for Canadians in the Middle East

Last updated: April 14, 2024 13:26 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, jordan - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest and demonstrations.

Border with Syria - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to all areas within 5 km of the border with Syria, with the exception of the tourist site Umm Qais, due to incidents linked to the conflict in Syria.

Border with Iraq - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to all areas within 5 km of the border with Iraq, due to incidents linked to the conflict in that country.

Northeastern Jordan, east of Ruwaished - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the east of the city of Ruwaished, in northeastern Jordan, due to military activity and the lack of emergency facilities.

Refugee camps - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to all refugee camps in Jordan.

Back to top

Situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Due to recent events in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, operations at the land borders with Jordan may be affected by reduced hours or closure on short notice.

Land borders to the north and south with Israel remain open.

If you’re planning to cross the border between Jordan and Israel, you should verify the status of the border crossings before you travel.

Register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive information about departure options.

Since October 13, 2023, protests related to the ongoing conflict in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have been taking place regularly at various locations across Jordan.

Protest activity occurs throughout the week with larger demonstrations typically occurring on Fridays.

Major gathering places have included:

• places of worship, especially:
• the Al Husseini Mosque in downtown Amman
• the Al Kalouti mosque near the Israeli embassy in Rabieh, Amman
• refugee camps, including:
• the al-Wehdat refugee camp in South Amman
• the Baqa’a refugee camp near Ein Al-Basha on the Amman-Jerash highway
• the American Embassy and surrounding areas in Abdoun, Amman
• various neighborhoods in East Amman

Most protests have been peaceful and contained by security forces, but isolated incidents of minor clashes with security forces have been reported.

There could be additional calls to march to the border between Jordan and Israel where confrontations could occur between protestors and security forces along the Dead Sea highway and surrounding areas.

Jordanian authorities may employ enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

• deploying additional security forces
• using crowd dispersal methods
• establishing checkpoints and roadblocks

If you are near an affected area:

• exercise caution
• expect heightened security measures
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Areas within 5 km of the borders with Syria and Iraq, with the exception of the tourist site Umm Qais

Clashes involving small arms and mortar fire have occurred in the areas bordering Syria and Iraq, due to the ongoing conflict in these countries. Borders with Syria and Iraq are highly militarized. Government security forces may engage vehicles and people coming into Jordan illegally.

Refugee camps

Operation of refugee camps is managed by the Government of Jordan. You must receive the Government of Jordan’s approval for any travel into refugee camps.

There’s a threat of terrorism. Transnational and domestic terrorist groups have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks in Jordan. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Jordanian security forces have increased their operations across the country. This has resulted in the deaths of suspected terrorists, bystanders and local security officers. Further counterterrorism operations are expected throughout Jordan. Heightened security measures are in place.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Demonstrations have occurred in Amman at locations including:

• the Al Husseini Mosque, downtown;
• in front of Parliament in Abdali District;
• in front of the Prime Ministry at 4th circle on Zahran Street.

Outside of Amman

Other cities in Jordan where large demonstrations occur frequently include Irbid, Kerak, Ma’an, Madaba, Mafraq, Salt and Zarqa.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty Crime

The crime rate is low by regional standards. Petty crime occurs, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Theft of vehicles, assaults, robberies and attempted residential break-ins also occur.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Always carry a photocopy of identification documents for identification purposes
• Don’t display valuables in your car or on your person
• Lock car doors and windows
• Avoid travelling alone, especially in remote areas

Incidents of celebratory gunfire, while illegal, are common and occasionally result in injury and death.

Tribal violence

Clashes between tribes, clans or families periodically erupt and sometimes involve the use of firearms. Response from authorities is often delayed or non-existent.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Sexual harassment and assaults have occurred.

Women have been detained when reporting a sexual assault. Women must prove that any sexual activity was not consensual to avoid being charged under extramarital sex statutes.

Women should:

• dress conservatively
• travel in groups
• travel during daylight hours
• sit in the back seat of taxis.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous during winter. Accidents are common but more frequent during Ramadan and Eid.

Some drivers don’t respect traffic laws. Drivers may be aggressive and drive very close to each other. It’s typical for drivers not to use signals to indicate turns or lane changes. Drivers often talk or text on mobile phones while driving, although this is illegal in Jordan.

Off-road driving can be hazardous, and you should only do it in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles with an experienced guide.

• Avoid driving at night in rural areas, as roaming animals and insufficient lighting create hazards after dark
• Leave your travel itinerary with a family member or friend
• Be well prepared and equipped with gasoline, water, food and a cellular phone

If you’re involved in an accident

Many drivers involved in an accident may avoid calling the police and try to negotiate a settlement instead. However, they may later try to file a claim against you.

In the event of an accident causing personal injury, the driver may be held for several days until responsibility and appropriate restitution is determined.

To avoid legal issues, call the police to attend the scene of the accident and assess responsibility.

Public transportation

Public transportation is usually very crowded. It can be uncomfortable.

The cleanliness and mechanical reliability of taxis vary considerably. Book taxis through hotels.

Vehicles booked through ride-hailing applications are generally more reliable and in better condition than taxis in Jordan.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Jordanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Jordan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada

• Canadian passports

Tourist visa

Required, and valid for 30 days. You may obtain a visa upon arrival if you travel by air or enter Jordan at the following border crossings:

• Sheikh Hussein Bridge
• Wadi Araba (Aqaba)

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, operations at the land borders with Jordan may be affected by reduced hours or closure on short notice.

You need to obtain a visa online or from a Jordanian diplomatic mission prior to travelling if you’re planning on entering Jordan at the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) border crossing.

You can extend the validity of a visitor visa at any police station.

If you overstay your visa, you’ll be fined when leaving the country.

Business visa

First, you need a tourism visa to enter. Then, you must obtain a residency permit from Jordan’s Ministry of Interior upon arrival.

Residency Permit

You must obtain a tourist visa to enter Jordan. Once in Jordan, you may apply for a residency permit from the Ministry of Interior.

Jordan only issues visas at:

• international airports
• the Sheikh Hussein Bridge border crossing
• the Wadi Araba (Aqaba) border crossing

Jordan doesn’t issue visas at the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) border crossing between Jordan and the West Bank.

• Jordanian Pass - Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
• Ministry of Interior - Jordanian e-government site

Health entry requirements

You must take a medical exam to obtain a residency permit, including mandatory testing for tuberculosis, HIV and hepatitis C.

Other entry requirements

Canadians who were previously in Jordan under a Refugee Status Determination process may be subject to different entry requirements and should contact the nearest Jordanian Embassy before travel. 

Registration

Register with the police for stays of more than 2 weeks.

Travelling to neighbouring countries

If travelling from Jordan to neighbouring countries, ensure that you obtain your visas before departing Canada. These countries don’t normally issue visas at border crossings to individuals without a Jordanian residency permit.

Travelling to and from Israel

Consult our travel advice for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Strip for more information on entry requirements.

If you’re travelling beyond Jordan, note that other countries have denied Canadians entry because their passports bore a Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. Such a stamp would indicate that the traveller had entered Jordan from Israel.

Travelling from Egypt

You’ll need to show your Egyptian entry and exit stamps to border officials when arriving from Egypt.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Upon departure, your luggage may be searched for security reasons and to prevent the illegal export of Jordanian and Iraqi antiquities.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired   Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely ,   and   avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and  wash your hands  before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in Amman but could be inadequate elsewhere. Procedures often require immediate cash payment.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive. You may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Jordan only offers government services in Arabic. Before submitting official documents to local governments, you must have them translated to Arabic.

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Avoid romantic physical contact, including holding hands, in public.

Don't photograph people without their permission.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Jordan.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Jordan, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

Confirm your citizenship status with the Embassy of Jordan in Ottawa before your departure.

• Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
• General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Even possession or use of small amounts of illegal drugs is a criminal offence. If you're accused of a drug offence, you can be detained by authorities for up to 2 weeks without being charged. Convicted offenders can expect heavy jail sentences and fines.

Consumption of alcohol outside approved venues is illegal. It could result in your arrest, heavy fines or imprisonment. Public intoxication is a criminal offence, whether or not consumption occurred privately

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Illegal activities

Other illegal activities include:

• insulting King Abdullah II or other members of Jordan's royal family
• photographing government buildings and military installations
• all forms of religious proselytizing, including distribution of religious materials
• extra-marital sexual relations
• prostitution
• possession of pornographic material

By law, all vehicles must carry a fire extinguisher and warning triangle.

If a pedestrian is injured in an accident, authorities always deem the driver to be guilty. As the driver, you may face imprisonment and heavy fines.

Drinking and driving

If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver's licence on the spot. If you're convicted, you can expect heavy fines and possible imprisonment.

International driving permit

You should carry an international driving permit. You may only drive rental cars with a valid Canadian driver's licence or an international driving permit. To drive any other vehicle, you must hold a Jordanian driver's licence.

International Driving Permit

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Although the laws of Jordan don't prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated. Jordan does not recognize same-sex marriages.

Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community could face arrest under other charges, such as anti-adultery or public indecency laws.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Jordan.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dress and behaviour

Jordan'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.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Before travelling to Jordan, and in case of a family dispute involving children, both parents should ensure they're fully aware of the implications of local laws on children's mobility, access and custody.

Any adult male may prevent his minor children from leaving Jordan by placing a hold on their travel with Jordanian authorities.

Immigration officials may prevent children travelling with their mothers from departing Jordan without the father's consent. This is possible even if the child or woman is solely a Canadian citizen. Jordanian authorities consider disputes surrounding travel holds as private family matters. The Embassy of Canada is limited in its ability to intervene. Only a court or the person who requested the travel hold may remove it.

Under Jordanian law, a husband may place a travel hold on his wife, preventing her departure from Jordan. Adult male relatives (that is uncles, brothers, grandfathers) may also request that a court place a travel hold on unmarried adult female relatives.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Jordan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Jordan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Jordan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Legal process

Jordan's legal process may be slow and cumbersome. Police may hold suspects and witnesses to incidents for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials.

The currency in Jordan is the dinar (JOD). ATMs are available in larger cities and at the Queen Alia International Airport, but are limited elsewhere. Only U.S. dollars and euros are easily convertible into local currency.

Larger stores and restaurants in Amman and other tourist areas accept credit cards.

Jordan is located in an active seismic zone. Strong aftershocks may occur up to one week after the initial earthquake. Landslides are possible in certain areas. 

Droughts and sand and dust storms occur.

Snowfall is infrequent but can cause extensive road closures and disrupt public services.

Rainy season

The rainy season usually extends from November to March.

Heavy rain can result in flash floods in dry river beds and canyons (or “wadis”). Flash floods and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local news and weather reports • Stay away from the affected areas • Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast –  Jordan Meteorological Department

Local services

Dial 911 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Amman and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Is Jordan Safe to Visit?

Jordan is a country full of stunning ancient sites, sweeping desert vistas, and laid-back seaside resorts. It’s also home to the famed archaeological site of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Wonders of the World.

Compared to many of its neighbors in the Middle East , Jordan is an exceptionally safe country to visit. It even ranks above France on the Global Peace Index , a country that people clamor to visit without a second thought towards safety.

When I was in Jordan, I never encountered any safety issues. Instead, I found everyone to be curious, welcoming, and hospitable, and a number of solo female travelers I know have experienced the same thing.

More and more travelers are starting to discover the wonders of Jordan, and tourism has been increasing exponentially . To aid Jordan’s appeal as a destination, the Jordanian government puts a lot of effort and money into making visitors feel safe through high-profile security and police presence in tourist regions and in hotels. And crime, which is already quite low, has been steadily decreasing in recent years.

In short, while people may have some trepidation about the Middle East, Jordan is one of the safest places to visit in the region .

So, what do you need to think about before you head to Jordan? And are there any parts you should avoid? Any things you need to be cautious of?

In this post, I’ll highlight the safety information you need to know so you can enjoy every moment of your trip. If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be safe and sound while exploring this vibrant country!

Table of Contents

7 Safety Tips for Jordan

Is the tap water safe to drink in jordan.

• Are There Any Scams in Jordan?
• Is it Safe to Visit Jordan Solo?
• Is Jordan Safe for Female Travelers?

Should I Worry About a Terrorist Attack in Jordan?

Are taxis safe in jordan.

1. Be aware of your belongings – Thanks to an increased police presence in Jordan, even petty crime is rare. However, it’s always sensible to stay aware of your belongings. There have been reports of pickpockets and purse snatchers in some of the more crowded parts of Amman’s old town center and at major tourist sites. Keep your valuables out of reach just to be safe. Carry some cash and one credit card, but leave your main wallet secured in your accommodation.

2. Avoid the borders with Syria and Iraq – It’s common knowledge that Syria and Iraq are unsafe places to visit at the moment, and this extends to their frontiers with Jordan. None of the main tourist attractions are near these borders, so it makes sense just to keep clear.

3. Stay away from public protests – The regular public demonstrations in Jordan are generally peaceful, but just the same, avoid big gatherings like this if you can help it. You never know what will happen.

In the capital, Amman, there are often demonstrations on Thursday evenings or after Friday midday prayers, near the office of the prime minister. They also tend to occur when major economic issues are being debated or on significant anniversaries. Keep an eye on the local media so you’re able to avoid accidentally being caught up in any local protests.

4. Be aware of your safety in taxi rides – There have been a few reports from female travelers regarding harassment from taxi drivers. The best way to avoid this is to sit in the back and remain alert. These are very isolated incidents; generally speaking, taxi drivers in Jordan are really helpful. When in doubt, avoid traveling alone if possible.

5. Check conditions before traveling on the Desert Highway – Highway 15, which runs north to south through Jordan, is one of the main routes between Amman and other centers, like Aqaba. There have been occasions when the highway is closed because of unrest in Ma’an in the south, and other parts are blocked from time to time. Check the local news for any closures and always follow police instructions.

6. Stay alert on or near roads – The roads in Jordan can be chaotic and a bit more hectic than what you may be used to (especially in Amman). Traffic laws seem to be treated more like suggestions, and it’s not surprising that traffic accidents are the third-leading cause of death in Jordan. So you’ll want to stay on your toes whether you’re driving or as a pedestrian. Be cautious when crossing the streets, look both ways, and stay alert when walking around town.

7. Buy travel insurance – Whenever and wherever you travel, you should always have an appropriate level of travel insurance, since you never know when something can go wrong. Buy travel insurance when you book your trip to help you out of an emergency or to compensate you for theft or injury. I never leave home without it. You shouldn’t either.

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

While it may technically be safe, most locals will tell you not to drink the tap water because it has a strange taste (due to the pipes). Many hotels have water purifiers as well to ensure you get clean drinking water. If you’re in doubt about your water’s cleanliness, boil it for a minute first.

I suggest you bring a LifeStraw , a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter that ensures your water is always clean and safe. You’ll also avoid single-use plastic, which is especially important in Jordan as there are no comprehensive recycling programs in the country (so most plastic ends up in landfills).  

Are There any Scams in Jordan?

Like most countries, there are a few scams you’ll want to be aware of when visiting. The most common scams involve taxi drivers overcharging you or taking you on a longer route, shop owners telling you that handicrafts are made locally when they are not, and shop owners selling “antiques” that are just cheap replicas.

Most of the scams are simply trying to rip you off so you needn’t worry too much about your safety. Just keep your wits about you and you’ll be able to avoid these common petty scams.

For more information, check out this post on common travel scams .  

Is It Safe to Visit Jordan Solo?

Like anywhere, there are a few extra precautions you should take when you travel solo, but Jordan is definitely a great destination nonetheless. Jordanian people are really friendly and welcoming, and you’ll make lots of local friends.

Just keep your valuables secure when you go out, avoid walking around alone at night, and avoid isolated areas where you stand out. In short, the more you can blend in the easier time you’ll have.

Is Jordan Safe to Visit for Solo Female Travelers?

Solo female travelers should take standard precautions here in addition to being mindful of the clothing they wear. Of course, you’ll want to ensure you are properly covered when entering religious sites but you may also want to cover up when out exploring the country at large as well.

Unwanted attention can be kept at bay by dressing like the locals and covering your exposed skin. Long pants and long-sleeve shirts will go a long way in helping you look less like a tourist while also preventing unwanted attention.

Here are a few helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:

• How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
• 8 Myths About Solo Female Travel Debunked
• 10 Common Questions About Solo Female Travel

Government warnings for travelers to Jordan do mention the possibility of terrorist attacks, in light of some incidents in the past, especially one at Karak Castle in 2016, when a Canadian tourist was killed. There have also been several extremist terrorist plots disrupted by the Jordanian authorities. So, the threat exists, but the government is usually good at monitoring and dealing with it.

The riskiest areas in this respect are along the border with Syria, which should be avoided anyway .

Overall, the terrorist attack warnings are at the same level as many countries in Europe that you would probably visit without considering this at all.  

Taxis are a common way to get around in Jordan, and taxi drivers in general are very helpful. Always make sure that the driver turns on their meter before starting the ride (it’s the law here), and if they don’t, get out and find another cab. And, like anywhere, keep your wits about you and remain alert about where you’re going.

Despite some of its neighbors being countries I don’t recommend visiting at the moment (such as Iraq and Syria ), Jordan itself is very welcoming to tourists. The government, which is keen to have more foreign visitors, has taken many precautions to ensure your safety.

The friendly locals — combined with incredible ancient architecture, stunning desert settings, and the uniqueness of visiting the Dead Sea, among other sites — will make sure you have a thoroughly enjoyable trip to Jordan.

Book Your Trip to Jordan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Nomads Hotel and Hostel (Amman)
• Petra Gate Hostel and Hotel (Petra)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Higher levels apply in some areas. 

Jordan (PDF 719.24 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan overall.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel to the Syrian and Iraqi border regions.

Reconsider your need to travel to the Syrian and Iraqi border regions due to the unstable security situation.

• An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. 
• This may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and flight diversions, and other travel disruptions. 
• Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in Jordan. Stay at hotels with a visible security presence. Have an exit plan if you visit possible targets.
• Protests occur in Amman and other major cities in Jordan. Most protests are peaceful but could become violent. Avoid protests and public gatherings.
• Security is unstable in Syria and Iraq . Reconsider your need to travel to Jordan's borders with Iraq and Syria, which can be subject to cross-border criminal and politically motivated attacks on security forces and military installations inside Jordan.
• Petty crime includes robbery with violence, bag snatching, theft from hotels and vehicles, and assault. Be alert in tourist areas, especially to pickpocketing, bag snatching and assault by unlicensed guides. Scammers operate in tourist areas. They often target single women. They promise companionship, marriage or offer joint business ideas. Credit card fraud, including card skimming, occurs. Be wary of approaches from friendly strangers. Always keep your card in sight when shopping. Check ATMs for card-skimming devices.
• Women may be verbally, sexually and physically harassed or sexually assaulted. Don't make eye contact with or talk to men you don't know. Don't walk or travel alone, especially after dark. Always ride in the back seat of rideshares or taxis.
• Shooting guns to celebrate is illegal but common. It sometimes causes death and injury. Stay indoors and away from windows if people are celebrating with gunfire.
• Flash flooding occurs across Jordan during the rainy season, which runs from November to March. Valleys (wadis) are most at risk, but recent flooding has closed roads, including major highways. Monitor weather conditions before commencing road travel. Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid flood waters.

Full travel advice: Safety

• There are reports of cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus ( MERS-CoV ). Avoid consuming products contaminated with camel secretions. Wash hands regularly before and after touching animals.
• Waterborne, foodborne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are prevalent. They include hepatitis, typhoid, measles and sandfly fever. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Amman has high-quality private medical services. Outside major cities, health services are basic. Paramedic and ambulance services are basic compared with Australia. You may have to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, you might need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Many laws in Jordan differ from laws in Australia, including sex outside marriage, photos of embassies, military or security sites and religious activities. Familiarise yourself before you go. Get professional advice for local legal matters. You may be prevented from leaving the country until issues are resolved.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences include life imprisonment. You may face jail terms for possessing small amounts of drugs. Serious crimes attract the death penalty. These include terrorism, murder, treason and rape of a minor. Some offences, such as causing personal injury or property damage, are punishable by hard labour.
• Respect the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During Ramadan, it's illegal to eat, drink and smoke in public during daylight hours.
• Local customs are conservative. Public affection between couples is unacceptable, as are unmarried couples living together or sharing accommodation. Same-sex relations are not socially acceptable. Always get consent before taking photos of people.
• If you're a dual national, authorities will consider you Jordanian. Men aged between 18 and 40 need to register for military service, although you don't have to complete it. If you don't register, authorities may not let you leave the country.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You'll need a visa to visit Jordan. Multiple visa options are available on the Ministry of Interior webpage , depending on your travel requirements. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.
• Some land border crossings from Israel into Jordan are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. You need a visa to enter Jordan. Visas on arrival are available but be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan. If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel. Be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan.
• Australians who were previously in Jordan under a refugee status determination, should check with the Jordanian  Public Security Directorate  on whether they can legally re-enter Jordan. 
• There are unexploded weapons and landmines in Jordan's border regions. Known minefields are usually fenced and marked, but warnings may not be obvious. Get local advice in these areas.
• Road rage incidents are common. They can escalate quickly. Road travel in remote desert areas is very risky. Don't drive outside cities at night. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, stay at the scene until traffic police arrive.
• Flights to and from Jordan may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict may increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace.  Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Amman .
• To stay up to date with local information follow the Australian Embassy Jordan on social media.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, border with israel .

Some land border crossings from Israel into Jordan are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time. You need a visa to enter Jordan. Visas on arrival are available, but be prepared for delays when crossing into Jordan. If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations and protests are common, including in Amman.

They're triggered by:

• domestic and regional events
• economic issues
• important anniversaries

Most have been peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Demonstrations often occur after Friday noon prayers but can happen at any time. These often result in road closures.

They're likely to occur:

• near large mosques, government ministries and diplomatic missions
• at major intersections
• in downtown areas of Amman

Demonstrations and protests also occur in regional centres, including:

They can also happen on the major highways between these towns.

To stay safe:

• avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings
• check the media for news of possible unrest
• avoid possible unrest on national days or commemorations
• change your plans if there are disruptions
• follow the advice of local authorities

Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help if there are disruptions.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Border regions

Security is unstable in Syria and Iraq .

There's frequent military activity near Jordan's borders with these countries. This includes shelling, gunfire and drone attacks from smugglers and militias in Syria and Iraq.

People have died or been injured on the Jordanian side of the border with Syria. Jordan has deployed extra security forces to the area.

Violent extremists continue to plot possible attacks in Jordan. Jordanian authorities have stopped terrorist plots in recent years.

• In November 2019, an attacker with a knife injured 4 tourists and 4 Jordanians near the Visitor's Centre at the Jerash Roman ruins.

Terrorists may target tourist areas and attractions. They target tourists going to or from these places, including tour groups.

Terrorists also target Western businesses, including:

• hotels, restaurants and bars
• nightspots and clubs
• sporting venues
• international fast-food outlets and supermarkets
• markets and shopping centres
• cinemas and theatres

Foreigners living in Jordan have been targeted at:

• expatriate housing areas and schools
• outdoor events

Extremists in Syria and Iraq threaten Jordan. Jordanian foreign fighters are involved in the conflicts in Syria and Iraq.

Jordan has extra forces in areas bordering Syria and Iraq. Many extremist sympathisers have been arrested.

Jordanian security forces monitor the security environment closely. They check Jordanian fighters coming back from Syria.

• be aware of the kinds of places that terrorists target, and the level of security in place
• stay at hotels with a visible security presence, such as uniformed guards and screening equipment that's being used
• have a clear exit plan if you visit a possible terrorist target, in case there's a security incident
• be alert to threats at tourist places, religious sites, Western businesses and crowded public places
• report any suspicious activity or items to police

Keep informed about possible terrorist activity:

• check local and social media for news of any threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow advice from local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Terrorist threats

People have reported:

• robbery with violence
• bag snatching
• assaults against foreigners in tourist areas, including assaults by unlicensed guides
• bags stolen from hotels and vehicles
• aggressive begging practices by organised criminal groups

Be alert to pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in tourist areas.

Scams and fraud

Scammers work in tourist areas. They often target single women. They promise companionship or marriage.

Some scammers offer joint business ideas. Their aim is to take large sums of money from their target. Jordanian laws can make legal action difficult. Scams involving sex outside of marriage may not be investigated by local authorities due to local laws and cultural differences. See  Local laws .

Authorities report credit card fraud. This includes the use of card-skimming machines.

To avoid being scammed:

• keep your credit card in sight during transactions
• check for card-skimming devices before you use an ATM
• be wary of friendly strangers, especially if the person mentions marriage or business ventures

Firearms are more common than in Australia. Criminals sometimes use firearms. Shooting guns to celebrate is illegal but still occurs. It sometimes causes death and injury.

Stay indoors and away from windows if people are celebrating with gunfire.

Female travellers

Women are often subject to harassment. This includes leering, unwanted physical contact and stalking.

Incidents of sexual assault against foreign women are reported. Friendliness can be misinterpreted.

If you're a woman:

• avoid eye contact and talking to men you don't know
• avoid walking or travelling alone, particularly after dark or in lonely places
• always ride in the back seat of rideshares or taxis, especially when travelling alone
• pay attention to your surroundings, and leave if you feel uncomfortable
• report sexual assault incidents to the police

Women travellers

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Tours and safety

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Jordan is in an active earthquake  area.

Rock falls and landslides can occur, especially in valleys.

There can be sand or dust storms, especially in desert areas. Snowstorms can happen at higher elevations, including in Amman.

The rainy season runs from November to March and can cause flash  flood ing . Valleys (wadis) are most at risk. Recent flooding has closed roads, including major highways. Monitor weather conditions before commencing road travel. Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid flood waters.

• In December 2022, an estimated 1,700 tourists were evacuated due to flash floods in Petra
• In October 2018, 21 people died in flash floods around the Dead Sea

If a natural disaster or severe weather  happens:

• keep your passport in a safe place
• closely monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• stay in contact with friends and family

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up   
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Jordan by contacting the Jordan Food and Drug Administration .   Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus.

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported in:

• Saudi Arabia
• the United Arab Emirates

Other countries have reported cases from returned travellers.

Avoid consuming raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions. Wash hands regulars before and after touching animals.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

MERS information card

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• brucellosis
• leishmaniasis (sandfly fever)
• schistosomiasis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Amman has high-quality private medical services. Outside major cities, Jordan's health services are basic.

Paramedic and ambulance services are basic compared with Australia.

If you need treatment, healthcare providers may ask you to pay upfront. This may happen even if you have travel insurance.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include life in jail.

Penalties for possessing even a small amount of drugs include mandatory jail terms.

Carrying or using drugs

Family and business law

Jordan's family laws are different from Australia's. These include laws about divorce, child custody and child support. 

If you're involved in family and business issues, get professional legal advice. Know your rights and responsibilities under local laws.

If you want to get married in Jordan, check the legal requirements before you travel. Contact the Jordanian Embassy in Canberra for advice.

Criminal law

If you commit a crime, punishments can be harsh by Australian standards. For certain crimes, authorities can sentence you to death though there is currently a moratorium on the death penalty in place in Jordan. These include terrorism, murder, treason and rape of a minor.

You may face hard labour for some offences, such as causing personal injury or property damage.

Authorities may detain you if you do any of the following:

• have consensual sex outside of marriage, particularly with Jordanian nationals, even if in a de-facto relationship or civil union recognised in Australia
• take photos of embassies, military or security sites
• injure a pedestrian while driving a car
• take part in missionary work, preaching or other religious activities that are against local rules
• procure or traffic prohibited drugs

Research local laws before you travel.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

If you're a dual national, you'll be considered Jordanian by law while in Jordan.

The government has stopped compulsory military service. However, all males aged 18 to 40, including dual nationals, still need to register for military service. You need to then postpone your service each year.

If you're eligible and don't register, authorities may stop you from leaving Jordan.

Dual nationals

Local customs

The Islamic fasting month of Ramadan is observed in Jordan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

It's illegal to eat, drink and smoke in public during daylight hours in Ramadan. If you're not fasting, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Other local customs

These activities are not socially acceptable and may offend:

• public affection between couples
• unmarried couples living together or sharing accommodation
• same-sex relationships
• taking photos of people without their consent

Other cultural and social rules can vary between regions of Jordan. Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to visit Jordan. 

If you're a tourist, the E-Visa program enables you to apply for a digital visa before arrival. Multiple visa options are available on the  Ministry of Interior webpage , depending on the purpose of your travel. 

You can get a single-entry visa valid for 30 days when you arrive at airports. These visas are also available at the border crossings between Jordan and Israel.

You may wish to purchase a Jordan Pass before arrival. More details are available  here .

You need to arrange a visa in advance if:

• you plan to stay for more than 30 days
• you're going to Jordan to do something other than be a tourist, such as work or study 

Border measures

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy of Jordan for details about visas, currency, customs, entry and quarantine rules.

Jordan’s international airports are open to commercial flights. Land and sea crossings are also open. 

Monitor government announcements and media sources and follow the advice of local authorities.

Other formalities

You must comply with additional rules for travellers if you stay more than one month. You must register with the police. You may also need to have medical and HIV tests.

Under Jordanian law, a husband can prevent his wife and children from leaving Jordan. This is the case even if they're Australian citizens. See Local laws .

You need to pay an exit tax at all border crossings except airports.

In March 2017, the UK government announced restrictions on carrying electronic devices from or through Jordan to the UK.

Some countries in the region may refuse you entry if you've been to Israel. Authorities may stop you from entering if you have entry and exit stamps from border crossings. They may also stop you if your luggage has baggage tags showing you've been to Israel.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Jordan if you've travelled through or from an area with a risk or transmission. Some airlines may want to see the certificate when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 253KB)

Land borders

Land border crossings from Israel into Jordan (Sheikh Hussein, Allenby Bridge, and Aqaba) are scheduled to be opened daily, but crossings may close without notice and for an unknown period of time.  

If you're departing Israel to Jordan, check the Jordanian and Israeli government websites to determine if border crossings are open before travel. 

For details about travel to the West Bank, read the travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories .

If you decide to travel to either Syria or Iraq despite our advice, read our travel advisories for Syria and Iraq .

More information

• Israel Ministry of Tourism

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

If you travel with an emergency passport, you may be allowed to transit through Jordan. You must confirm this with your airline or your closest  Embassy of Jordan . Entry into Jordan with an emergency passport will require the approval of the Jordanian authorities. The Australian Embassy is unable to assist with such approvals.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Declare all amounts over JOD10,000 or equivalent on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATMs are available throughout Amman and in other major cities. It's harder to find ATMs in rural areas. Most petrol stations on major roads offer ATMs.

Local travel

There's a danger of unexploded weapons, including landmines, along Jordan's borders. Known minefields are usually fenced and marked. These warnings may not be obvious.

Reconsider travel to areas near the borders with Syria and Iraq due to the unstable security situation.

Seek local advice if travelling near Jordan's borders. See more information in 'Land borders' above.

Driving permit

To drive in Jordan you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Road accidents are common.

Roads are dangerous at night. In rural areas, stray livestock and unlit vehicles are common.

Incidents of road rage are also common. They can escalate quickly.

Road travel in remote desert areas is very risky. Isolation, distance from towns and lack of phone service can make it difficult to obtain assistance. Even routine vehicle breakdowns can be dangerous.

• vehicles must carry an extinguisher and a warning triangle
• drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident, no matter how minor, must remain at the scene until traffic police have attended

Call police on 911. You can ask for an English-speaking operator.

If you intend to drive in Jordan:

• learn the local road rules
• make sure your vehicle has all required safety equipment
• avoid driving outside cities after dark
• keep your doors locked when driving
• carry identification documents to show at checkpoints
• stay calm, particularly if faced with 'road rage'
• stay at the scene of an accident unless people threaten your safety

If you travel in remote desert areas, take enough food and water in case your vehicle breaks down. Crime has been known to occur in isolated areas; be careful when speaking to others.

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorbikes. It's dangerous due to poor driving and road standards.

Check with your travel insurer if you're covered to ride a motorcycle.

Always wear a helmet. 

Use only licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing or limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel. 

Avoid taxis that tout for business outside airports, hotels and tourist attractions. They often try to charge high prices. Always insist drivers use the meter.

Authorities report taxi drivers have seriously assaulted lone female passengers. If you're a woman, always sit in the back. 

Public transport

Buses can be crowded. It's worse on holidays and during peak times. Safety standards are not the same as in Australia.

Transport and getting around safely

International cruise ships visit the port of Aqaba on the Red Sea.

Going on a cruise

Flights to and from Jordan may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict could increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace.  For more information, see  air travel and check with airlines before booking. Flight paths are subject to change. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options. 

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 911. You can ask for an English-speaking operator.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact:

Australian Embassy

41 Kayed Al Armouti Street Abdoun Al Janoubi Amman, Jordan

Phone: +96) 6 580 7000 Fax: +962 6 580 7001 Email: [email protected] Website: jordan.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy in Jordan   X: @AusAmbJO

Opening hours are 8:30am until 4:00pm Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Jordan?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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Jordan travel: Is it safe to travel right now, and what are your rights if you have a trip booked?

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Since the start of the Israel-Gaza war and amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea, concerns over the safety of travel to Israel and countries in the surrounding region have risen.

Although the FCDO considers most of Jordan generally safe to travel to – bar the area up to 3km from its northern border with Syria – travel guidance has been updated to reflect ongoing events.

As conflict in the Middle East spills into the Red Sea , cruise itineraries could be disrupted beyond the existing restrictions due to conflict in neighbouring  Israel  and Gaza .

Jordan, a popular winter sun destination for tourists, shares its northern border with both Israel and Syria, and travellers with trips booked may be questioning the wisdom of holidaying there.

Here’s the latest travel advice for  Jordan , plus all the key questions and answers.

What is happening in the Red Sea?

Houthi rebels, a Yemen-based group backed by Iran, have been fighting a civil war since 2014 against Yemen’s government. Since 19 November the group have launched 27 assaults on commercial vessels and warships in the Red Sea – claimed to be targeted action against all ships bound for Israel in support of the Palestinian people.

On 11 January, the US and UK militaries mobilised  missile strikes  against the militant group’s sites in Yemen in a naval coalition to protect shipping, and further attacks have followed.

Aqaba, Jordan’s only seaport, sits on the Gulf of Aqaba at the tip of the Red Sea. Cruise holidays due to dock in Jordan will likely be diverted due to the unfolding Red Sea crisis.

What does the Foreign Office say?

The most recent Foreign Office (FCDO) advice updated on 12 January said: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea.

“While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice.”

On 10 October, the FCDO  strengthened its stance  on travel to Jordan to warn that crossings from Jordan to Israel may be closed at short notice as a result of the conflict and state of emergency in southern Israel close to the border with Gaza.

Large political demonstrations and protests in response to the situation in Israel, often near the Israeli and US embassies, should also be avoided by tourists in Amman.

The FCDO has long advised “against all but essential travel to within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria”.

Its guidance states that the situation in Syria is “fragile” and “security threats in the form of instability or terrorist activity could arise with little or no notice”, advising against all travel to the country.

Travellers are also warned to “take particular care at all border areas and if crossing into any neighbouring country” and “remain vigilant” to terrorism threats at all times.

What do the Jordan authorities say?

The Jordan Tourism Board said in a statement: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasise that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world.

“Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering. We want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists, and we are eager to share our extraordinary experiences with the world.

“We understand that tensions around the world can raise concerns, but we believe in the power of travel to foster understanding and build bridges between nations.

“As always, the Jordan Tourism Board is here to assist and support tourists in making the most of their visit.”

Jordan’s deputy Prime Minister and minister of foreign affairs, Ayman Al-Safadi,  stressed  the need to “stop the dangerous escalation in Gaza and its surroundings” and highlighted the ongoing Jordanian effort to launch “immediate international action to stop the escalation, the necessity of protecting civilians and respecting international humanitarian laws”.

Al-Safadi  said  that the need to protect civilians, whose killings are “condemned by international laws”, fuelled Jordanian efforts to stop the escalation and end the war on Gaza, in order to “avoid their repercussions on the entire region”.

Are Jordan flights continuing?

Flights are operating to and from Jordan, although forced cancellations to Aqaba Airport are active until 31 January from Wizz Air and Ryanair due to “operational restrictions beyond their control”.

The main airlines that fly from the UK to Jordan include British Airways, easyJet, Tui and Wizz Air out of London Heathrow, London Gatwick and London Luton. From 6 March, Royal Jordanian will depart London Stansted and Manchester for Amman.

Currently, Queen Alia International Airport, south of Amman remains operational – as does King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, Jordan’s southernmost point.

In 2021, Jordan and Israel reached a historic agreement to open up the Jordan-Israel air corridor and allow flights that previously flew around Israel to cross over into each country’s airspace, cutting flight times from the West.

An international aviation group, OpsGroup  warns : “Lessons learned regarding civil operations in conflict zones over the last nine years since MH17 need to be applied. The risk of a passenger aircraft becoming a casualty of this war is high.”

What if I have booked a package holiday to Jordan?

Travellers who have booked package holidays to Jordan’s “no go” zone as advised by the FCDO can cancel without penalty for a full refund, although the main tourist spots are a fair distance from here anyway.

Outside of the 3km radius between Jordan’s northern border and Syria, the conditions for cancelling your trip will be dependent on your holiday provider, so it’s best to contact them if you’re looking to postpone. There is no obligation for companies to refund you if you want to cancel and you will not be able to claim on travel insurance due to safety concerns unless FCDO advice changes.

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? The latest travel advice

Here’s everything we know so far about travelling to Jordan amid the Israel-Hamas conflict

Home to five Unesco World Heritage Sites and more than 100,000 archeological and religious landmarks – including Petra, one of the most famous in the world – Jordan makes for a fascinating holiday destination for all those interested in Middle Eastern history. It’s a popular destination for some winter sun, and annually it has around 5 million visitors. 

However, as the country borders Israel , where a violent war between Israel and Hamas has been unfolding since Saturday, travellers are questioning if it’s safe to visit this part of the world. Israel has just declared a state of emergency, so here is everything we know so far about travelling to Jordan. 

Is it safe to travel to Jordan at the moment? 

The UK Foreign Office is not currently advising against travel to Jordan. 

The Jordan Tourism Board released a statement to address concerns about safety for travellers. It says: ‘In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasise that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world.

‘As always, the Jordan Tourism Board is here to assist and support tourists in making the most of their visit.’

Flights to and from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman and King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba are still going ahead. Many airlines have suspended their services to Israel, but there have been no reports of this happening with flights to Jordan. 

What has the UK Foreign Office said? 

The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance regarding Jordan, advising against all but essential travel to within 3 km of Jordan’s border with Syria, where it describes the situation as ‘fragile’. 

It also advises against all travel to the provinces in Iraq that border Jordan, and says that crossings with Israel could be shut with very short notice due to the conflict. 

Though the political situation in Jordan is stable and protests in Amman and other cities are usually peaceful, tourists should still be cautious. 

What about the travel advisory? 

Similarly to the UK Foreign Office, the Jordan Travel Advisory encourages caution. They recommend against all travel to the following locations:

• Within 3.5 km of the Jordanian border with Syria, and east of the town of Ruwayshid
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to government restrictions
• Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighbourhood of Ayn Basha due to risks of terrorism and crime

It also urges travellers to reconsider travel to Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate. You can read more about their advice on travelling to Jordan on their webpage. 

Is it safe to travel to other places in the Middle East amid the conflict in Israel?

As the conflict rages on, travellers are uncertain about whether it’s safe to visit neighbouring countries. You can read our travel guide on Israel and Egypt here , and our guide for travel to Türkiye here . 

For all the information about helping those affected by the conflict in Israel, read  our guide on charities and organisations providing vital aid and where you can donate .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out travel newsletter for all the latest travel news. 

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Is Jordan Safe To Travel To? A Jordan Travel Safety Guide

Is Jordan Safe to Visit?

Travel Warnings Jordan: What to Look Out For

Border areas, protests and demonstrations, petty crimes.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan in 2024?

Is Jordan safe? This seems to be the question of the hour and everyone is wondering it. Especially with the constant news of bombings, terrorist attacks, and other events related to conflict in this region.

We’ve met people who would never dream of visiting the Middle East right now, no matter what it had to offer, and who think we are absolutely off our rockers for having done so, and continue to do so.

Don’t get me wrong, despite the fact that we often commit to visiting the area, we can’t help but let our minds wander to the current issues. I mean, we have been in the Middle East for all the events I just mentioned above.

I remember waking up in our hotel in Petra to the news of the Paris attack during our first visit to Jordan (we’ve now been 3 more times). It was heartbreaking, and I would be lying if I said it didn’t make us nervous.

All of that said, we had a really amazing time in this part of the World and our interests are increasingly piqued each time we return to explore more.

We know a lot of you are wondering what it was like to travel in this part of the World and whether your plans should involve a visit in the future. So let’s talk about it.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Jordan

Is Jordan Safe? Let’s Take a Deep Dive

Table of Contents

Is Jordan Safe for Westerners?

I’ll start by telling you about a moment that David and I had shortly after we arrived in Amman, Jordan the first time.

After checking into our hotel, we walked down the street to a Japanese restaurant for a scrumptious bowl of ramen. We walked through the door, were seated, and handed menus.

After placing our order we both looked at each other and said, ‘I can’t believe we are in Jordan.’ Just bluntly to each other, then both looked out the window in amazement.

If we didn’t have the plane tickets and passport stamps to prove we had just landed in Jordan, we could have snapped a photo and posted it online saying we had just arrived in Minneapolis, Minnesota .

The crazy part? Everyone would have believed us.

We never felt unsafe or threatened during our time in Jordan and never got the impression that we were not welcome there. We’ve been back to Jordan three times since this first visit and have even led our own group trip to the country.

Additionally, we’ve also been to Egypt three times and will be exploring more of the Middle East with trips planned to Oman, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain this year.

Jordan as a whole is working hard to put the positive image of their country forward, and it deserves to have tourism .

You can learn more about Jordan in our extensive Jordan Travel Guide .

What are the Local People Like in Jordan?

Jordan is an incredibly progressive place and while they still hold onto their cultural roots, they have moved forward with great care for the stability of their country and its people.

We walked the streets of every city we visited at all hours of the day and night and were not hassled once .

Many women in the bigger cities walked the streets without burkas, wearing trendy clothing. The men dressed sharply and treated the women they came in contact with respectfully.

Curious locals waved at us and started random conversations with us. Despite what people may think about it, we are not the kind of people who won’t tell people where we are from.

When asked, we tell. I can’t tell you the amount of excitement that would come out of learning we were Americans and how much passion the local people put into telling us how great it was that we were there and how much they loved our country.

This is the tour we took on our first visit : 8 Day Jordan Explorer

Don’t Fall For Sensationalized Media Headlines

The mainstream news media does the World a great disservice with its sensationalism in the news headlines.

The average American is terrified at the mere mention of the Middle East and can’t fathom why anyone would want to leave America. 

It’s ridiculous if you want my honest opinion. These media practices make people forget that there are people living in these countries, going about their lives just like you and me.

They want terrorism stopped just as much, if not more, than we do because, unlike the few occurrences that we see happening to the Western world, it is a nightmare that is affecting their quality of life.

Try to think about that the next time you hear that the Middle East is not a safe place to visit.

Stay safe everywhere you go: 25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel

Is Jordan Safe to Travel Around Independently?

Absolutely. While traveling in a group is the most popular option, traveling independently in Jordan is easy and very safe.

The infrastructure of Jordan is very modern , meaning they have paved roads, direct routes, and even an expressway.

It is not a big country by any standard and you can travel from Amman to Aqaba in 4 hours . Buses connect the main cities but do not stop at the sights.

So you will have to plan on arranging shuttles or tours from the cities you are staying in.

If you’re not up for going it alone, check out this great 8 Day-Jordan Explorer tour option that we experienced which operates round trip from Amman.

We also organize our own custom and private group trips to Jordan. You can learn more about our trips and watch for Jordan trips here: Divergent Travel Trips

Will I Be Harassed while Traveling in Jordan?

While I can’t guarantee that you won’t, I’ve been harassed in some cities in America, it never happened while we were in Jordan. On any of our four visits.

The people were respectful of Western tourists and for the most part, didn’t really pay attention to us.

I never noticed men going out of their way to catcall the ladies or follow them down the street like I have seen in places like India and Morocco .

The key to visiting any country, not just in the Middle East, is to respect their culture .

You have to remember that you are choosing to visit their country, you were not invited and you don’t have a right to just parade around like you do at home.

Jordan is a progressive country, but it is still a conservative place by Western standards. Do your part by researching the country and showing some respect during your time visiting the country.

Just paying attention to those things will save you a lot of hassle during your travels.

We have also traveled to Jordan with Globus, and it was fantastic! Read about our experience here: 7 Days in Jordan on the Globus Escape

Tips for Dressing Appropriately in Jordan

Being a conservative country, I think it goes without saying that you should leave your shorts and skimpy tops at home. Yes, it’s going to be hot out but it is imperative that you be respectful.

I would say of all the countries in the Middle East, Jordan is the most accepting of the Western visitor.

That said, following these simple tips will ensure you have a great time and feel comfortable during your trip.

• Male travelers: Shorts seemed to be ok, same with T-shirts and lightweight button-up shirts. Don’t wear tank tops. Sandals are ok. If you’re looking to be conservative wear long pants and long sleeve shirt. Many men were wearing jeans.
• Female Travelers: Don’t wear tight-fitting clothes, shorts, or tank tops. The local women, while progressive, do not dress like this, and neither should you. You don’t have to cover your head.

I wore a combination of loose-fitting hippie pants, lightweight travel pants, and lightweight travel capris. I wore fitted, but not tight, short-sleeved tops and carried a scarf with me at all times.

I also wore long-sleeved button ups over tank tops. This wardrobe worked for me throughout our travels in the Middle East.

Is Jordan Safe Amid All the Stereotypes?

You should visit Jordan because it is awesome and has a lot to offer travelers. Jordan has history, culture, ruins, and natural wonders jam-packed into a small country with great infrastructure.

The people are friendly, welcoming, and eager to show you the best of their country.

The Kingdom of Jordan is working hard to maintain the stability of their country and keep it a safe place for tourists.

It is very important to remember that the majority of the people in this part of the World are just people.

Just people like you, working for a living, working so their kids can have a better life, and working so they can live their dreams.

So, Is Jordan Safe to Visit?

Just so we are clear, I am not trying to sugarcoat the situation in the Middle East . What is going on over there is real and affects everyone in this World.

I am not saying the Islamic State is not a real threat nor that the situation with Jordan’s neighbors should be ignored. However, I can tell you that Jordan is a safe country and a safe place to travel to.

There is security everywhere, they have a large, powerful, alert army and there have been no attacks in Jordan.

Don’t let the media storm that often surrounds this part of the world convince you that it is all bad and that the people despise Western people and our way of life.

This is nothing further from the truth. Jordan is an exceptional example of a safe country promoting the good of an area and we can’t wait for a chance to return and dig a little deeper on our travel adventures.

Besides, I think you have a better chance of being hit by a bus while walking across the street in your hometown than being the subject of any attacks while traveling in Jordan.

• Official Information: Visiting Jordan for US Citizens .
• Planning to cross from Jordan to Israel? Check out: Crossing into Jordan from Israel – Overland border

More on traveling to Jordan:

• Ultimate Jordan Itinerary for 5 Days, 7 Days or 10 Days
• 27 Special Things to Do in Jordan
• Wadi Rum in Jordan: Best Camps & Ultimate Planning Guide
• The Jordan Pass: Is It Worth It? Plus How to Maximize Your Ticket
• Best Time to Visit Jordan: Month by Month Breakdown
• Inside Petra Jordan: Everything You MUST Know Before Visiting
• Swimming in the Dead Sea in Jordan

You might also like:

• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?
• Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks
• 21 Epic Things to Do in Egypt

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

53 thoughts on “Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan in 2024?”

I have been planning to visit Jordan for many years. Your article will now push me to do so

Love to hear this! Be sure to check out our many articles on traveling in Jordan!

This was such an informative post! Thanks for the fantastic tips and amazing guidance. You have helped me a lot. Got to learn more about the topic!Thanks for sharing this post.

Thank you for your informative article….I am a 73 year old, partially disabled, woman who will be traveling alone…..do you think I will be ok? I have travelled quite a bit…. I really, really want to see Petra.

Yes! You will have a fantastic time in Jordan. Enjoy. 🙂

“I would say of all the countries in the Middle East, Jordan is the most accepting to the Western visitor.” __

More than Israel? That’s surprising.

I need answer for the same question.

The article does a pretty good job of answering the question. 😉

It’s safe to work in Jordan….I mean…its safe to get a job over there. …

Thank you for sharing your experiences in Jordan and making visitors feel safe about visiting a country who cannot help being located in a hotbed of instability! I hope more people will take you advice and visit Jordan whether independently or on an organized tour this year!

Really interesting post, thanks for writing it! Couldn’t agree with you more when you said “The mainstream news media does the World a great disservice with its sensationalism in the news headlines.”

It is a very advantageous post for me. I’ve enjoyed reading the post. It is very supportive and useful post. I would like to visit the post once more its valuable content. Thanks for sharing this so interesting post! I really want to be thankful for the way you have put it here.

Glad to hear you found the article helpful! Cheers

Hi Everybody

I would like to thank everybody for your kind words about jordan .

If anybody want to visit jordan or need any help about places , i’m proud to help .

We have just arrived in Amman at 9pm today, decided on car hire after reading multiple advices. We have driven in many countries and hardly met problems. My husband is a seasoned driver.

Driving from airport to hotel was ok. But when we were on the way to the supermarket, a car drove into our lane from the front out of nowhere, very very close to us, on a totally empty street in Amman and forced us to move slightly to the right. We were already on the right and there were no other lanes on the right just some head-in parking lots, some empty some taken. When we were being pushed to the right and wondering why the driver drove so badly, another car magically close enough behind to get scratched on their front left bumper. The car that cut into our lane had sped off very quickly.

We pulled up and 2 men appeared from the “victim” car (they only spoke Arabic apparently) blabbering about calling the Police (who they claim is off work) and another guy mysteriously appeared to “mitigate” in some simple English.

They wanted ridiculous amount of money and we emptied our wallet to send them off. They took whatever we had, got into their car real quickly and drove off quickly too.

We removed the huge car rental company sticker at the back of our car windscreen. We believe it was a planned scam (we had 3 very small scratches but theirs was very scratched) and wonder if there was any way we could have avoided it.

That sounds terrible! If it was me, I would have insisted that we call the police and would have also called the hotel to explain what had happened before even thinking about handing over money of any kind. It definitely sounds like a scam and I imagine had the police been called they would have disappeared. Jordanians hold tourism in a very high regard and this type of behavior isn’t tolerated but unfortunately, that kind of scam can happen anywhere. I hope you don’t let it ruin your time in Jordan, it’s a fantastic country with lots to offer.

Jordan is really a historic place. I will come visit someday. Thanks for this!

I cannot thank you enough for your post. Leaving for my 3rd trip to Israel next week, and wanted to add a day trip to Petra. My travelmates are terrified to leave Israel — fearful of the travel warnings, the terrorism, and the instability of the region. It is so hard to explain to people that have not been to the Middle East the exact notion that you articulated— that people just like you and I are living in these regions, making a living, raising families, and wishing the media would not overstate the conditions as much as we do.

Your blog was balanced, fair minded, and so well written. I have forwarded to my travel partners as a reassurance.

Thank you, thank you.

Fantastic to hear that you found our information useful! Jordan is a SPECTACULAR country and we were surprised by it every single day we spent there. You’ll LOVE Petra. Never seen anything quite like it. Media hype is a real thing and we need to make sure we maintain perspective about everything we see and hear. Be sure to check out our guide for visiting Petra to get the most out of your visit.:)

There are amazing flight deals to Amman right now and it has been a dream of mine to visit Jordan. I’m glad I read this blog but it’s still hard to not be worried considering the travel warning. I’m going to continue my research and keep the flight deal alerts coming. Thanks for this!

Hi, Thanks for sharing this. I am currently doing some research on Jordan because my daughter and son in law wants to go to Jordan to do missionary work. It scared me to death at first, but thanks to this blog I see that I was just being ignorrant as unfortunately so many people are.

Hi Witha, I am so glad you found us and that we were able to put Jordan into a healthy perspective for you. It is an amazing country with a lot to offer people who visit. They will have a fabulous time there and learn so much along the way. Cheers!

I’m glad that you enjoyed traveling to Jordan next time when you arrive here send an email and I will help you to know and visit all the nice and incredible spots in Jordan ??

Thank you! Yes, we loved Jordan and will definitely plan a return visit.

Excellent article, thanks for posting. I also appreciate the 2017 update! I’m heading to Jordan the third week of April for 4 days and this sort of affirmation about the safety and friendliness of the people is exactly what I needed! (I’ve been getting nonstop questions from family about whether or not I have a deathwish!)

You’re going to love Jordan! There are so many misconceptions about Jordan and the Middle East as a whole. Make sure you visit Petra. 🙂

Hi all. I have now lived and worked here for over three years I Lived in Amman for most of this time but have now moved to Aqaba. I can reiterate that Jordan is an amazing country with beautiful people to match. I have made many good friends here during my time. I have NEVER felt in danger, you just need to blend in and enjoy your stay. Like many have said you are a visitor so always keep that in mind. I love the place. Just one point about dress code, I have seen many local women wearing dresses and shorts. just dress respectfully. In the last six months or so there has been more trouble and today the 18th December 2016 there was the worst incident in the time I have been here. This was in Karak. Just about 10 KM of the main road near the bottom end of the Dead Sea. I still wouldn’t be put off by this. I just see it as there is trouble in all countries world wide.

I hope this honest appraisal of Jordan helps. COME VISIT you won’t regret it.

Just visit Jordan and enjoy it.

Is there a site that I could possibly find a travel buddy? As I am a single woman planning to travel January 2017?

Thank you for posting this article! As an expat living in Jordan, I am happy whenever I see westerners have a great time. I will add that safety here is a very real concern, both for locals and tourists. We live in the worry everyday. I wouldn’t want anyone to get the wrong idea that it’s completely safe because it isn’t. That being said, most will be just fine visiting here, but please take precautions.

Thank you for your rational comment. We agree that there is risk in any destination that you visit, and especially when you visit a country with unstable neighbors. But it is not reason enough to boycott visiting a place that has a lot to offer. Many people make decisions based solely on the information they are spoon fed in media, without digging deeper into the issues or talking to people that have actually experienced it for themselves. There is a big difference in that information.

Hi, this is great to know and read. Thank you! We are a tour operator in Jordan and comments like this helps us a lot. Can we share some of this on our Facebook for clients to read? We are trying hard thru our FB to be as informative as we can especially on how safe Jordan is. How can we collaborate?

Hi Carol, Thank you for the comment. Please contact us via email to discuss collaboration. Lina

Very useful blog on visiting Jordan. Thanks and well done. We’re not shy of visiting most places though Jordan did cause us to have some reservations. On your recommendation we are off then… bike tour here we come. 🙂

Jordan is an amazing country and very peaceful. They have some rowdy neighbors, but it is not affecting their country. Go and enjoy!

Nice read! Jordan looks really beautiful and I’d really like to visit at some point; it does seem like one of the safer options at present for exploring middle eastern lands and cultures.

Yes, Jordan is incredibly safe to visit. You won’t meet nicer people either.

Thank u my dream is Petra for yearsss,u article is awesome can’t wait to be there this year.

Why did you eat Chinese food while in Jordan?

Because we had been traveling through Africa for 5 months before we arrived in Jordan and it sounded good! Hadn’t had Ramen in almost 8 months.

Jordan is a heaven.

I Can only agree with all you have told! I have visited Jordan twice, and I will again! It is a very pleasent country, and it deserves to be visited.

Liked your positive outlook on middle-east!

Thanks for this amazing article which described Jordan at it true form ! Am glad you enjoyed your time here and hope you visit us again 🙂

love this article, I have lived three years in Jordan and this exactly matches my experiences. It is a different country, it is a different culture but with little alternations especially in the clothing part and a little respect for local culture it is a country very open to westerners. I cant’t think of any negative experience that had to with me being a blond European. I do remember some issues involving being a woman, but I later discovered it is something the local women deal with too. Besides that I always ALWAYS have felt safe in Jordan, everywhere any inch of the country. I have been everywhere on my own, without any trouble. But this works only with dressing up proper and with some respect for local culture. It is great country visit. Thanks for writing this blog.

Thank you for adding your insight! These are the stories people need to hear. Cheers!

Great read Lina! Glad you felt safe and enjoyed your time in Jordan. Jordan is indeed ‘the quiet house in a noisy neighborhood!’ Hope you make it again!

Welcome! You are right and so many people told us that same thing while we were there.

At first I would love to thank you about writing something we are looking to show it to the world as a Jordanians. Jordan is such a great place to visit whenever you get you time and your opportunity to make your dream come true to visit this country. and we are safe country to visit for all the people around the whole world, and the people of Jordan are friendly and respectful for the other. don’t let a little fear stop you to visit Jordan. Best wishes from Petra Archaeologist lives in Petra

I had a great time my son has been in Aqaba since September 2015 & has made some good friends who I met, they arranged a trip to Petra and Wadi Rum on three occasions, actually New Years Eve was spent with the Bedouin and 80 other European travellers French, Spanish, Dutch, on the third trip to Wadi we spent several hours with one of the family owners of a camp, a really great insight into how stuff works, I regularly drink mint tea as a result of the visit, very refreshing, I even went for a shave and haircut a guy from Egypt, in the shop was a guy from Syria, the haircut and shave was 3 Jordanian Dinar, I gave him 10JD and asked him to treat the Syrian and keep the change, lol…..the guys took me shopping bought 2 coats and 2 pairs of shoes all for less than 50JD bargain…great place great people, fly into Aqaba airport and your in your hotel in 10 mins….

Agreed, thanks for sharing! We need more people sharing the facts on the ground rather than fearing from their perception.

Love hearing about your experience and being an American living in Jordan, we get to experience this on a daily basis.

Hope to see you back!

Yes, there is a huge problem with people just assuming things this day in age. They watch the news, believe everything that is spoon fed to them and then rant an uneducated opinion about it. For people that are doing more research and are actually out exploring the World, we see things at face value. We loved Jordan, recommend it to fellow travelers and can’t wait to be back!

Good article Lina, I lived in amman for nearly 6 years and loved every moment and really miss it, Last trip back, I had a meeting with the Minister for Tourism and said all of the same to him, they know they need to work on changing the media and how the middle east is shown etc. But a lot of it is ignorance on peoples part, not being willing to read and research for themselves. And not just taking what is printed in papers as the gospel! ..enjoyed your article

Hi Evelyn, thanks for your comment. Yes, mainstream media is a real issue right now and people are just gullible. They believe whatever they are told without even doing more research! It’s frustrating. All we can do is share our positive experiences and hope people wise up a little. We loved Jordan and can’t wait to return to visit the places we missed and spend more time.

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Is it safe to travel to Jordan now? Latest Foreign Office advice after Israel declares state of emergency

The escalating situation between israel and hamas has led to travel fears around neighbouring countries.

Seventeen British nationals, including children, are dead or missing in Israel after attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Palestinian health officials have said 1,200 people have died in Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip , while the death toll from the Hamas attack launched at the weekend is also 1,200, Israeli officials say.

Rishi Sunak said the UK Government was ready to support any British citizens in need of help, telling broadcasters: “I know there will be families who are anxious about their loved-ones in the region.

“I want to reassure them we’re doing everything we can, working very closely with the Israeli authorities to establish what is happening on the ground, provide support to people where it’s needed.

“I’d urge anyone there to contact the Foreign Office so that they have their details, follow the advice locally from the Israelis but also from the Foreign Office, and we stand ready to support everyone as best we can.”

The escalating situation between Israel and Palestine has led to fears over travelling to and around neighbouring countries. Here is the latest advice for Jordan, and what its regime has said about the conflict.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is not currently advising against travel to Jordan relating to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Police raid Columbia University to clear pro-Palestinian protests

However, it advises against all but essential travel to within three miles of Jordan’s border with Syria .

The FCDO said around 25,967 British nationals visited Jordan in 2021, and that most visits are trouble-free.

However, it adds: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Jordan. There have been a number of incidents since 2016, some serious.

“Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, particularly hotels, shopping malls and tourist sites. You should take extra care, and in the event of an incident, follow the advice of the Jordanian authorities.”

Jordan’s King Abdullah said on Sunday that there was a need to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent escalating Israel-Palestinian violence with “dangerous repercussions” for the region’s security.

He added that contacts with regional and international parties were underway to discuss “urgent international action to avoid an escalation and prevent the region from the consequences of a new round of violence”.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

The FCDO is advising against “all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories”, and against all travel to the following locations:

• The Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar;
• Within 500m of the border with Lebanon (the “Blue Line”) east of Metula, including the northern edge of the town;
• Within 500m of the border with Syria (the “Alpha Line”);
• The area close to the border with Gaza that includes: south-west of Ashkelon, and south of route 35 and west of route 40 as far as Tlalim, not including Be’er Sheva.

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country, meaning international borders could close at short notice.

Anyone currently in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories is advised to register their presence with the FCDO here . It can then share important updates with you, including information to support you to leave the country.

Despite the warnings, the UK is not currently planning to follow other European nations in evacuating citizens from Israel.

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Is Jordan Safe? Is It Safe To Travel To Petra? (Yes!)

Jordan is emerging as one of the most popular countries to visit in the Middle East, with good food, a healthy dose of culture shock, amazing desert canyons, and ancient archaeological sites like Petra that belong on any traveler’s bucket list.

“But is Jordan safe? Is it safe to travel to Jordan and Petra?”

Those are the first questions I heard when I showed friends the pictures from my solo trip to Petra, Jordan in the last part of 2018. And they’re fair questions, because the Middle East is not the safest part of the world.

However, Jordan is easily one of the safest countries to visit in the Mideast, with a low crime rate and a stable government that actively watches out for us tourists. If you’re still not feeling reassured, read on for some Jordan safety tips!

My Experience In Jordan

First of all, I should share my background. I solo traveled all over Jordan (and other countries in the Middle East), exploring places in Amman, Petra , Wadi Musa, and Wadi Rum .

I got a pretty good feel for how safe Jordan is, and what it’s like to travel in the country, especially in the ‘touristic’ areas that most visitors are likely to want to go.

I had a wonderful time in Jordan. It was the trip of a lifetime.

Is Jordan Safe? Is It Safe To Travel To Jordan & Petra?

Yes, Jordan is definitely a safe country to visit in my opinion.

Nowhere in the world is completely safe of course, but Jordan is a stable country that gets millions of visitors per year, and Petra has become a famous tourist attraction.  

What’s The Crime Rate?

The UN reports a homicide rate of only 1.6 per 100k inhabitants in Jordan, which is 75% lower than the global average. That’s a very low figure.

The Jordanian government also takes special steps to protect tourists, and attitudes toward us are generally welcoming.  

What About Terrorism?

Terrorist attacks are possible, and have happened occasionally throughout the years, but that’s true anywhere. They don’t seem to be any more common in Jordan.

In the age of terrorism I would try to avoid hanging out in big crowds while traveling here, but again, that’s a basic safety tip that goes for just about anywhere nowadays.

Personally, I would rate Jordan much safer than Egypt .  

What About Scams?

Like every country in the world, Jordan has some scams to watch out for.

These are pretty minor things like taxi drivers trying to overcharge you, or fake tour guides offering a ‘free’ horse ride and then demanding a big tip afterwards.

When you barter or haggle for something, always make the terms plain before you agree to anything. Keep your guard up, and these scams will be easier to avoid.

Top Safety Tips For Jordan

Here are a few recommended safety tips for your trip to Jordan.

To be honest, these are all rules I’ve broken from time to time, but it’s good to try to practice them sometimes at least:

• Don’t wander around after dark if you can help it. Petty crime happens in the day time, but most violent crime happens at night .
• Travel with a companion if you can. There’s some safety in numbers.
• Be careful about big crowds. This is where terrorism and pickpocketing come into play. By hanging out in a crowd, you’re more likely to be a target of either.
• Stay away from the Syria & Iraq borders. These are not safe countries right now. Thankfully, none of the popular tourist attractions in Jordan are near these borders.
• Book drivers & tour guides through reputable companies or hotels. Again, just a suggestion. Don’t hop in a random taxi if you have better options.
• Wear your seatbelt on the highway. Statistically, you’re more likely to die in a car accident than a stabbing, shooting, or other violent crime. And that probably goes for most places on Earth.
• Dress modestly in public, especially if you’re a woman. You’re not likely to have any major issues here, but Jordanian culture is conservative and you don’t want to offend people.

So Is Jordan Safe?

In conclusion, yes, I think Jordan is quite safe to travel! I hope you’ve been helped by some of these thoughts and tips about safety in Jordan.

Take reasonable precautions, but please don’t be put off too much by fear and what-ifs. Jordan is a beautiful country and I’d encourage you to visit.

Don’t forget to check out my complete travel guides for Petra and Wadi Rum before you go!  

• Petra Jordan Guide – How To Visit The Lost City Of Petra
• Wadi Rum Jordan Guide – Desert, Canyons, & Jeep Tour
• Jordan Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Blog

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In Jordan, a Community Disrupted Awaits Travel’s Return

T rying my best not to make a mess, I devoured the chocolate-drizzled, walnut-topped qatayef and instantly felt better about the wet, wintery day. In Jordan and throughout the Middle East, these palm-sized semolina pancakes are typically only popular during the holy month of Ramadan—As-Salt, a city on three hills about an hour north of the Jordanian capital of Amman, is “the only place where one can find qatayef year-round,” my As-Salti guide Sewar Alfauori explained between bites.

Minutes earlier, a downpour had drenched the city in buckets of water that now cascaded down the steep limestone streets. In a futile effort to escape the rain, we had stopped by the pastry stand at the deserted Al Hammam Street , a pedestrian-only thoroughfare that normally attracts travelers to its spice and textile shops in As-Salt’s UNESCO World Heritage city center .

Travel to Jordan, which shares a western border with Israel and the occupied West Bank Palestinian territories, has reduced dramatically in the last six months. According to the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, visitations dropped by 80-90% in some places due to concerns for safety in the region following the months-long war in Gaza in response to the October 7 Hamas attack. The impact of the neighboring crisis has been devastating for the country where tourism serves as the largest export sector and second largest employer .

Although As-Salt is not as well known among travelers today as the ancient Nabataean city of Petra or the Mars-red Wadi Rum desert, the city played a vital role in the region’s development. Occupied since the Iron Age, it blossomed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, during the late Ottoman period. As-Salt was the crossing point of pilgrims on the way to Mecca and traders headed for Europe, Asia, or Africa. This strategic location helped turn the small village—known as ‘Saltus’ in Roman times—into a major commerce hub. Merchants from Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine settled in As-Salt to trade goods like livestock, grains, textiles, and plant dyes. By way of Damascus, As-Salti wool reached as far as the European and American markets; from the ports of Haifa, crops like wheat and raisins spread across the Mediterranean.

Where trade flourished, people gathered. Soon, As-Salt attracted skilled craftsmen, architects, and stone masons who built its characteristic golden-colored limestone houses with public gathering spaces, internal courtyards, domed roofs, and tall, arched windows. At the crossroads of cultures, ideas, and groups of people—Bedouin sheiks, Ottoman officials, Christian missionaries, and Levantine traders—As-Salt became famous for a practice known locally as takaful al-ijtimai —a unique blend of Bedouin hospitality and tolerance of diverse ideas, religions, and cultural traditions. It manifested in the creation of multiple madhafa guesthouses and entire neighborhoods where people of all backgrounds lived side by side.

As Alfauori conveyed these facts to me with the enthusiasm only professional guides possess, she turned somber. “For most of last year, I had two or three daily tours around the city,” she said, adding: “You are only my third tour since the beginning of this year.”

I’ve been traveling to Jordan several times a year for nearly a decade. After October 7th I wanted to see for myself how local communities are coping since the Israeli military campaign on Gaza began. This February, I visited Amman to catch up with Yasar Malhas, a Jordanian tour operator who runs Pan East Tours . “We have zero work,” she said, “but we are hanging on.”

Back in As-Salt, the rain eventually stopped, revealing a lush green tapestry of landscapes like olive groves and Mediterranean forests, a calling card of northern Jordan. From the historic city, I moved further north to Jerash, one of the Roman Empire’s most important outposts at the dawn of the first millennium. In Jerash, I tried my hand at baking zalabia, a fluffy bread made with sesame seeds, yogurt, and olive oil. This experience is one of many provided by Dar Ne’meh , a community tourism project employing women, orphaned girls, and refugees in five hubs across Jordan.

Dar Ne’meh has helped nearly 3,000 women create a sustaining income for themselves and their families in the last five years, according to the Princess Taghrid Institute, which oversees the project. “When you support one woman, you’re supporting five to six people in the community,” said PTI’s general director Dr. Aghadeer Jweihan while we shared a meal of chaa’cheel, a local specialty in which dumplings stuffed with a native wild plant called loof (Arum Palaestinum) are slowly cooked in jameed, a fermented dry yogurt.

Traveling across Jordan from north to south takes just eight hours. Yet, in this small area, people of different faiths–Muslims, Druze, Christians of Catholic, Orthodox Greek, Syrian, and Coptic denominations–have coexisted for centuries. Heading south from Jerash, I soon arrived in Madaba, an Arab Christian town dating back to the times of the Crusaders where the world’s oldest map of the Holy Land , a mosaic treasure, lies for all to see on the floor of a Byzantine church.

A fresh arrival to Madaba’s dining scene, Carob House is a farm-to-table restaurant and community kitchen supplied by a zero-waste farm just outside of town. Jordan’s ecotourism veteran Rakan Mehyar founded Carob House to grow clean, nutritious food sustainably using time-tested practices like crop diversity and composting. Community is at the core of this operation: Carob House supports a network of small farmers, mostly women, in nearby villages who produce artisanal-quality products such as bottled carob molasses I happily acquired during my visit.

In the Carob House restaurant, led by chef Sarah Yassine, Mehyar and his team are resurrecting food traditions indigenous to this region. “This is where humanity’s agriculture originated , which means our food is thousands of years old,” said Mehyar. “Our menu is based on heritage recipes, but we leave room for contemporary creativity.”

At the communal dining table, I tasted dishes hard to find elsewhere on Jordan’s touristic trail: hearty soup made with native plants like mallow and gundelia (a type of thistle), pumpkin kubbeh inspired by lent, during which Madaba’s Christian residents make a vegetarian version of this meat dish, and ice cream made with carob foraged nearby.

“We want to connect travelers and local communities with farmers, celebrating the food that farmers grow,” said Mehyar. “Unless we create abundance in the soil, reimagine the way we grow our food, and share the goodness with others, I see a gloomy world.”

Just 20 miles south of Madaba, a nondescript hill called Mukawir overlooks the Dead Sea. At the top of this quiet hill, a bird’s-eye view of Jerusalem forms a backdrop to the ruins of Machaerus, a fortified castle built by biblical despot Herod. Although calamities befell Machaerus in the past—this site is considered to be where John the Baptist met his beheading fate —today it is entirely peaceful. I felt completely safe on this quiet shore—and throughout my entire visit—but it was not devoid of heart-wrenching emotion as I recognized and mourned the massive loss of life that took place so close to where I stood. Headlines about the Middle East often paint the region with a broad, often negative stroke. I’m glad that as a traveler, I’ve had the opportunity to go, see, and experience firsthand the overwhelming hospitality of Jordan’s many cultures.

I stopped at Mukawir for breakfast with the women of the Bani Hamida Weaving Project . When tourism numbers are high, Bani Hamida supports over 1,800 women from 14 remote villages in the area who craft exquisite wool carpets and upholstery in traditional and modern designs. In times like this, the women are managing to stay busy and put their products on the global stage through a partnership with IKEA , which now carries some of their designs in stores worldwide.

“We are able to help our households, improve our living conditions, and put our children through school,” explained Amal Kaida, one of the women greeting us over the breakfast spread of soft balls of labneh, mounds of zaatar, olives, and pickled eggplant called makdous. “But I want to know where you’re from,” she added, filling my cup with the third round of sage tea.

Back in As-Salt, I thought about Jordan’s role as the region's shelter from conflict. Throughout history, people have come to this country to escape violence and war. From Circassians fleeing the persecution of the Russian Empire in the 18th century, to survivors of the Armenian Genocide during World War I, to Palestinians who have built a new life in Jordan since being removed from their lands in the 1948 Nakba, entire communities have found a haven in Jordan. That is what makes it the vibrant, eclectic mix of cultures it is today.

A common trait now underpins these diverse communities: a steadfast warmth and generosity. Once I first tasted the flavor of As-Salt’s takaful al-ijtimai, I found it impossible to not come back for more.

Jordan has long been a beacon of stability in the Middle East – but that looks to be changing

Professor of International Relations, Lancaster University

Disclosure statement

Simon Mabon is affiliated with the Foreign Policy Centre. He receives funding from Carnegie Corporation of New York and The Henry Luce Foundation.

Lancaster University provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation UK.

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Sat in the Wadi Araba in the baking midday sun, senior Jordanian officials and their Israeli counterparts signed a historic peace agreement in 1994 that ended decades of conflict between the two states. Witnessed by the then US president, Bill Clinton, it was just the second peace agreement that Israel had signed with an Arab state, coming over a decade after it made peace with Egypt .

At the same time, artillery fire from southern Lebanon hit targets in the north of Israel in protest, a barrage credited to Hezbollah, the Lebanese Party of God. Now, 30 years later, Hezbollah’s barrage of northern Israel continues amid a devastating conflict in Gaza and escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Across Jordan, people have taken to the streets demanding that King Abdullah tears up the peace agreement.

Jordan has long been viewed as a pillar of stability in the Middle East. It is a US ally and collaborated with Washington during the war on terror while other Arab states were deeply opposed. But the Hashemite kingdom now finds itself in a precarious position.

Throughout the Arab world, anti-Israeli sentiment has increased dramatically since the bombardment of Gaza that began in October 2023. This anger has been keenly felt in Jordan.

The country provided refuge to many of the Palestinians that were displaced from their ancestral homes in 1948 – the event known as the Nakba. And Jordan is now home to an estimated 3 million Palestinians. This means that events in the West Bank and Gaza reverberate in Jordan.

Read more: The Nakba: how the Palestinians were expelled from Israel

Pressure is mounting

While demonstrations have taken place across Jordan since the start of the Israeli bombardment, they have escalated in recent weeks. Since March 24, protests have taken place in Jordan’s capital, Amman (including outside the Israeli embassy ), as well as in Karak and Irbid.

The protests began as expressions of support for Hamas and opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza. However, the protesters are beginning to turn their ire to the Hashemite court, the administrative and political link between the king and the Jordanian state.

They have called for an end to the peace deal, halting the export of goods to Israel, and breaking diplomatic relations with Israel. These moves are almost impossible given Jordan’s reliance on aid from the US, a key ally of Israel. But pressure is undoubtedly rising on the Hashemite court.

The protesters have expressed anger at events in Gaza, along with concerns that Jordan would be affected by the forced displacement of Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza. These concerns are not unfounded, as the events of 1948 demonstrate. Perhaps even more worrying for the Hashemite court are accusations by some protesters that the king is “colluding” with the Israelis.

Fearing what may happen if the protests escalate, the Jordanian government has sought to limit protests. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces near the Israeli embassy and Baqaa refugee camp resulted in arrests , drawing criticism from human rights organisations and increasing the fury of those on the streets.

The pressure on the Jordanian state is also growing from other sources. Funding to the UN relief agency Unrwa was slashed following allegations that its staff were involved in the October 7 attacks. This has affected Jordan directly as Unrwa provides essential services to over 2 million refugees in the kingdom.

Regional instability

Jordan’s geographic position at the heart of the Middle East means that unrest in the Hashemite kingdom poses a significant challenge to neighbouring states, not least Saudi Arabia and Egypt. On April 5, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman, called King Abdullah and expressed Saudi Arabia’s “support for the measures taken by the Jordanian government to maintain Jordan’s security and stability”.

Regional news outlets have also come out against the protesters, framing them as Iranian or Islamist stooges. In Al-Arabiya, an opinion piece argued that “Islamist groups want to benefit from [the ongoing protests in Jordan] … and reproduce the Arab Spring revolutions”. The Arab Spring was a wave of pro-democracy protests and uprisings that took place in the Middle East and North Africa in 2010 and 2011, challenging some of the region’s entrenched authoritarian regimes.

In Asharq Al-Awsat, the former editor in Chief, Tariq Al-Homayed, suggested that unrest in Jordan would allow Iran to extend its supply lines to the Mediterranean, giving Iran a “foothold on the Saudi and Egyptian borders”. Another newspaper, Okaz, claimed that unrest in Jordan was part of an “Iranian project to expand Tehran’s influence” across the Middle East.

This fusion of Islamist and Iranian threats may appear counterintuitive given their different political and sectarian characteristics. Islamists such as Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood adhere to Sunni Islam while Iran sees itself as the leading Shia Muslim power. However, the coming together of the two camps has become more common after the start of the war in Gaza and the shifting contours of regional politics.

A shared anti-Israeli stance is where the two coalesce. Islamist groups, and also individuals, had been used by some as a means of countering Shia and, by extension, Iranian gains after the Arab uprisings of 2011.

But in recent years, Islamist groups such as Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood have been viewed as a major threat to domestic and regional security by Saudi Arabia, the UAE and others by virtue of their longstanding criticism of rulers in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi.

As the Middle East drifts away from the heady days of normalisation that characterised the spring and summer of 2023, Jordan remains on the precipice. Bringing peace to Gaza is a necessary step in reducing tensions in the Hashemite kingdom, but it alone will probably be insufficient.

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Middle East crisis live: Rebuilding Gaza will cost $30bn to $40bn, UN says as scale of destruction is ‘huge and unprecedented’ – as it happened

UN agency says reconstruction will require effort on a scale unseen since second world war

• 10h ago Closing summary
• 10h ago UN estimates rebuilding Gaza will cost $30bn to $40bn
• 11h ago Hamas delegation to visit Egypt soon for further Gaza ceasefire talks
• 14h ago Summary of the day so far …
• 15h ago Israel's war cabinet to meet tonight to discuss ceasefire and hostage deal
• 16h ago EU announces €1bn funding for Lebanon including training support to troops for 'border management' amid Israel-Hezbollah clashes
• 18h ago Hamas response to ceasefire and hostage release plan said to be 'negative' but discussions continue
• 18h ago Welcome and opening summary

UN estimates rebuilding Gaza will cost $30bn to $40bn

A UN agency said on Thursday that rebuilding Gaza will cost an estimated $30bn to $40bn and require an effort on a scale unseen since the second world war, reports Agence France-Presse (AFP).

“The United Nations Development Programme’s initial estimates for the reconstruction of … the Gaza Strip surpass $30bn and could reach up to $40bn,” said UN assistant secretary general Abdallah al-Dardari .

“The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented … This is a mission that the global community has not dealt with since the second world war,” Dardari told a press conference in the Jordanian capital Amman .

According to AFP, he added that if Gaza’s reconstruction were to be carried out through the normal process, “it could take decades, and the Palestinian people do not have the luxury of waiting for decades”.

He told the press conference:

It is therefore important that we act quickly to re-house people in decent housing and restore their lives to normal – economically, socially, in terms of health and education. This is our top priority, and it must be achieved within the first three years following the cessation of hostilities.”

He estimated the total rubble from bombardment and explosions at 37m tonnes.

“We are talking about a colossal figure, and this figure is increasing every day,” he said. “The latest data indicates that it is already approaching 40m tonnes.”

The UN official also said “72% of all residential buildings have been completely or partially destroyed”.

“Reconstruction must be planned carefully, efficiently and with extreme flexibility because we do not know how the war will end” and what type of postwar governance will be established in the Gaza Strip , he added.

Closing summary

It is 6pm in Gaza and in Tel Aviv . We will be closing this blog soon, but you can stay up to date on the Guardian’s Middle East coverage here .

Here is a recap of the latest developments:

A UN agency said on Thursday that rebuilding Gaza will cost an estimated $30bn to $40bn and require an effort on a scale unseen since the second world war. “The scale of the destruction is huge and unprecedented,” UN assistant secretary general Abdallah al-Dardari told a press conference in Amman, Jordan.

Hamas confirmed that the group will visit Egypt for further ceasefire talks in the Gaza war. A statement by the group added that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh had affirmed the group’s “positive spirit in studying the ceasefire proposal” in a phone call with Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel. Speaking to Reuters, a Palestinian official close to the mediation said the Hamas delegation’s visit could take place in the next two days.

Israel’s president on Thursday criticised US universities for campus unrest over Israel’s war in Gaza, saying these institutions were “contaminated by hatred and antisemitism”. Isaac Herzog said in a special broadcast that he was issuing an urgent message of support to Jewish communities amid a “dramatic resurgence in antisemitism and following the hostilities and intimidation against Jewish students on campuses across the US in particular”.

Israel’s war cabinet will meet at 6.30pm [3.30pm GMT] tonight to discuss “the next steps in negotiations to achieve a hostage deal”. The full security cabinet will meet afterwards. Earlier this week, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would launch a ground operation in Rafah regardless of whether there was a deal or not.

A senior Hamas official overnight has told the AFP news agency that at the moment the group’s response to the proposed truce deal brokered by Egypt and Qatar was “negative”, but that discussions were still under way. The official said Hamas “cannot under any circumstances raise the white flag or surrender to the conditions of the Israeli enemy.”

The outline of the hostage release programme that has been proposed is believed to be a 40 day pause in fighting while initially female hostages are released in batches of three every three days in return for Palestinian detainees. Hamas and other groups are believed to have seized and abducted about 250 people on 7 October from inside southern Israel, with 133 of them thought still held captive, not all of whom are believed to be alive.

At least 34,596 Palestinians have been killed and 77,816 injured in Israel’s military offensive on Gaza since 7 October, according to new figures released by the Hamas-led health ministry. During the same period 474 Palestinians including 116 children, have been killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem by either Israeli security forces or settlers. Israel says 263 of its soldiers have been killed in Gaza since it launched its ground offensive. It has not been possible for journalists to independently verify the casualty figures being issued during the conflict.

Two people have been arrested after shouting verbal abuse and throwing stones and eggs at a demonstration being held by relatives of those held hostage in Gaza which was attempting to block a highway in Tel Aviv.

More than 1,600 people have been arrested at 30 schools in the US in the last couple of weeks during the protests about the Israel-Gaza conflict . You can follow our live coverage of that here .

Paris’s Sciences Po university has rejected demands by protesters to review its relations with Israeli universities , its interim director Jean Bassères said on Thursday, prompting some students to say they would start a hunger strike in protest. “I clearly refused to set up a working group on our relations with Israeli universities and partner companies,” Bassères told reporters after a townhall meeting with students and staff. Dozens of students promptly started a sit-in inside the university to protest Bassères decision.

The EU has offered Lebanon a financial package of €1bn (£855m / $1.07bn) which among other measures includes supporting Lebanon’s armed forces with equipment and training for border management.

Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, has issued a statement after speaking to the EU’s top diplomat Josep Borrell. He said there was a “need to end the Israeli regime’s crimes and genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, without delay and precondition”.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) said on Thursday that the first baby has been born after the reopening of the maternity ward at the al-Amal hospital in Khan Younis. The child is named Muhammad Luay al-Raqab.

The risk of exposure to unexploded ordnance in Gaza is at its “most dangerous stage”, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has warned. Highlighting the warning in its flash update, the UN humanitarian agency (OCHA), reported that a 14-year-old boy was seriously injured and had to undergo limb amputations after opening a booby-trapped can of food in Khan Younis.

Organisers of the Eurovision song contest in Sweden have said they will not allow people to bring in or display Palestinian flags at the event , in which Israel is competing.

A British police officer pleaded guilty on Thursday to terror charges for showing support on social media for Hamas, which is designated a terror group and banned in the UK. The West Yorkshire constable admitted sharing two images on WhatsApp supporting the group three weeks after the 7 October attack.

The Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that several Palestinian civilians were killed on Thursday morning by Israeli airstrikes which targeted residential buildings and also the “lands and tents of the displaced people east of the city of Rafah”. It reported that “six citizens were killed in an Israeli bombing of the city of Al-Zahraa, north of Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip” and that one person was killed near Khan Younis, and two were killed when Israel bombed “a residential building owned by Ishteiwi family in Al-Zaytoun neighbourhood, south of Gaza City” where it said “a number of missing people are still under the rubble.” The claims have not been independently verified.

Paris’s Sciences Po university has rejected demands by protesters to review its relations with Israeli universities , its interim director Jean Bassères said on Thursday, prompting some students to say they would start a hunger strike in protest, reports Reuters.

Students at several French universities, including Sciences Po and Sorbonne University have blocked or occupied their institutes over the war in Gaza , although not on the same scale as seen in the US .

“I clearly refused to set up a working group on our relations with Israeli universities and partner companies,” Bassères told reporters after a townhall meeting with students and staff. Dozens of students promptly started a sit-in inside the university to protest Bassères decision.

“A first student has started a hunger strike, in solidarity with Palestinian victims, but even more so to protest against the way Sciences Po is repressing students who want to show their support for Palestine,” said Hicham , a student at Sciences Po and one of the pro-Palestinian protesters there.

More students would join the hunger strike, he told reporters, demanding that the university’s leadership agrees for its board to hold a public vote on reviewing partnerships with Israeli universities.

According to Reuters, the townhall was one of the conditions set last week for Sciences Po students to call off their protests over war in Gaza. Many had also asked the university to cut all ties with Israel.

Bassères said he was aware that refusing to put together a working group to review relations with Israel could anger some protesters. “I’m calling on all to show a sense of responsibility,” he said, urging protesters not to disrupt exams set to start next week.

The elite political sciences university would work on how best to organise internal debate on contentious topics, he said, adding that the university already had rules to review its partnerships.

“The last ties that should be severed are the ones between universities,” said Arancha González , who heads Sciences Po’s School of International Affairs.

Hamas delegation to visit Egypt soon for further Gaza ceasefire talks

Further to the report by the Times of Israel earlier [see 13.02 BST] , Reuters have more details on a Hamas delegation visiting Cairo soon for further Gaza ceasefire talks.

According to the news agency, a statement on Thursday from Hamas confirmed that the group will visit Egypt for further ceasefire talks in the Gaza war. The statement added that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh had affirmed the group’s “positive spirit in studying the ceasefire proposal” in a phone call with Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel .

Hamas said on Saturday that it had received Israel ’s latest position would study it before submitting a reply.

According to Reuters, the Egyptian state-affiliated Al-Qahera News quoted an unidentified high-level Egyptian source as saying that the Hamas delegation would arrive in Cairo in the next two days.

Speaking to Reuters, a Palestinian official close to the mediation also said the Hamas delegation’s visit could take place in the next two days.

Hamas’s statement added that the negotiations to be held in Cairo aim to “mature a deal that achieves the demands of our people and ends the aggression.”

Israel’s president on Thursday criticised US universities for campus unrest over Israel’s war in Gaza, saying these institutions were “contaminated by hatred and antisemitism”.

Isaac Herzog said in a special broadcast that he was issuing an urgent message of support to Jewish communities amid a “dramatic resurgence in antisemitism and following the hostilities and intimidation against Jewish students on campuses across the US in particular” reports AFP.

My colleague Gloria Oladipo is following the US campus protests live on a separate live blog, which you can find here .

A British police officer pleaded guilty Thursday to terror charges for showing support on social media for Hamas, which is designated a terror group and banned in the UK. The West Yorkshire constable admitted sharing two images on WhatsApp supporting the group three weeks after the 7 October attack. He was released on bail, and will be sentenced on 4 June.

Emanuel Fabian, military correspondent at the Times of Israel , reports that Israeli security forces have removed the remains of another intercepted Iranian missile that fell on to open ground after being struck during Tehran’s unprecedented state-on-state attack on Israel in April.

The Israeli military removed the remains of another intercepted Iranian ballistic missile found by hikers at the Ye'elim stream, close to Arad, in southern Israel. The missile was one of 120 fired at Israel in the Iranian attack on April 14. The remains were lifted out of the… pic.twitter.com/IZo5XzKyTC — Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 2, 2024

Muhammad Luay al-Raqab is the first baby to be born after the reopening of the maternity ward at the al-Amal hospital in Khan Younis , said the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) on Thursday.

The baby Muhammad Luay Al-Raqab is the first birth case after the reopening of the maternity ward at the PRCS Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis. #AlAmalHospital #Gaza pic.twitter.com/EegpSwKMkG — PRCS (@PalestineRCS) May 2, 2024

In late January, the PRCS said Israeli tanks had surrounded the, al-Amal hospital, which is the headquarters of the rescue agency. At the time, an Israeli military spokesperson denied its forces were storming the hospital in southern Gaza .

Here are some of the latest images on the newswires:

The Times of Israel , citing a Saudi Asharq newspaper article, reports that Egypt will invite Israeli and Hamas delegations to Cairo “to try to bridge gaps over a hostage release deal”.

The risk of exposure to unexploded ordnance in Gaza is at its “most dangerous stage”, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has warned.

Highlighting the warning in its flash update, the UN humanitarian agency (OCHA) , reported that a 14-year-old boy was seriously injured and had to undergo limb amputations after opening a booby-trapped can of food.

Citing information shared by the Government Media Office (GMO) on 29 April, OCHA said that the can was found while the boy looked for belongings in his house in Khan Younis after it had been shelled by Israeli forces.

The OCHA writes:

The GMO indicated that many people have been recently injured due to the explosion of booby-trapped canned goods, urging the population to exercise maximum care. Based on UN estimates of unexploded munitions, the GMO assessed that around 7,500 tons of unexploded ordnance (UXO) might be scattered throughout Gaza, appealing for assistance by the international community to remove explosive remnants of war (ERW) and mitigate the risk for civilians.

#Gaza : ⚠️ Streets and public spaces are littered with explosive remnants of war, posing health and safety issues. ⚠️ The risk of exposure to unexploded ordnance is at its “most dangerous stage,” warns @UNMAS . ⚠️ Over 10K people are estimated to be missing under rubble. More ⬇️ — UN Humanitarian (@UNOCHA) May 1, 2024

Summary of the day so far …

Two people have been arrested after shouting verbal abuse and throwing stones and eggs at a demonstration being held by relatives of those held hostage in Gaza which was attempting to block a highway in Tel Aviv .

Iran ’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian , has issued a statement after speaking to the EU ’s top diplomat Josep Borrell . He said there was a “need to end the Israeli regime’s crimes and genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, without delay and precondition.”

Organisers of the Eurovision song contest in Sweden have said they will not allow people to bring in or display Palestinian flags at the event, in which Israel is competing.

International Rescue Committee UK has joined calls for the UK government to embargo arms sales to Israel . In a statement it said:

Israel’s ceaseless bombardment of Gaza is the most intense use of explosive weapons in a densely populated area this century. This, alongside the siege, has created an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, rendering Gaza nearly uninhabitable and depriving almost all of the population – millions of people – of essential food, clean water, and healthcare for six months. An estimated 45,000 bombs were dropped on Gaza’s population in the first 89 days of conflict alone … relentless Israeli bombardment has also severely inhibited the ability of humanitarian actors to provide lifesaving aid to Palestinians in desperate need in Gaza. IRC UK is joining over 250 organisations to urge the UK Government to immediately halt the transfer of weapons, parts and ammunition where there is a risk they may facilitate violations of international humanitarian law. In addition, the UK Government must leverage all its influence to achieve an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of all hostages.

German chancellor Olaf Scholz and Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu have had a phone call today.

“They spoke about efforts to release all hostages held by Hamas and about a ceasefire. Further improvements to humanitarian aid for the people in the Gaza Strip were also discussed,” Reuters reports a government spokesperson said in a statement.

Helena Smith is in Athens for the Guardian, with more details on the EU financial package for Lebanon:

Officials in Cyprus , who have pushed hard for an economic support package to be given to Lebanon , believe the financial aid will help the tiny country better manage migration, at a time when increased Middle East tensions have limited the ability of local authorities to curb flows.

The Mediterranean island, the EU’s easternmost member, has seen an unprecedented uptick in the arrival of boatloads of Syrians from Lebanon, with Nicosia appealing to Brussels for help.

Cyprus’ government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the economic aid package presented by European Commission president Ursula Von der Leyen earlier today [ See 10.05 BST ] was “an initiative of president Christodoulides and the Republic of Cyprus and is a practical demonstration of the active role that the EU can play in the region.”

Israel's war cabinet to meet tonight to discuss ceasefire and hostage deal

The Times of Israel is reporting that Israel’s war cabinet will meet at 6.30pm tonight to discuss “the next steps in negotiations to achieve a hostage deal”.

It reports the full security cabinet will meet afterwards. The war cabinet consists of prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu , defense minister Yoav Gallant , and minister without portfolio Benny Gantz .

There are also three non-voting observer members of the war cabinet, former IDF chief of staff Gadi Eizenkot , minister for strategic affairs Ron Dermer , and the leader of Israel’s ultra-orthodox Shas party Aryeh Deri .

Still on Eurovision for a moment, Associated Press has announced that Palestinian flags will be banned from the event.

Michelle Roverelli , the head of communications for the European Broadcasting Union that runs the show each year, said ticket buyers are only allowed to bring and display flags that represent countries that take part in the event, as well as the rainbow-colored flag. The Geneva-based EBU reserves the right “to remove any other flags or symbols, clothing, items and banners being used for the likely purpose of instrumentalizing the TV shows,” she told the Associated Press in a text message.

Reuters has spoken to Felix Krausz Sjögren , a guide at the synagogue in Malmö in Sweden, where the Eurovision song contest is being held next week. He told the news agency he was anxious about protests taking place because of Israel’s participation. He told them:

There’s a certain feeling of apprehension, of tension. I can’t say that I’m not worried. With Israel being in the Eurovision, the emotions will be even more heightened, and maybe the synagogue will be a target of protests. It’s not unthinkable.

Sjögren says he is nervous about wearing his Jewish kippah in public. “I probably wouldn’t do that during Eurovision week. I would be on the safe side and make sure to have something to cover it with.”

He said the Jewish community often invites school classes to the synagogue, and “If we have a class with many Muslim kids visiting, we often find that we have a lot in common. We have seen very positive encounters here. Eurovision will, of course, not be of help in that sense, but it will pass and then we’ll continue with our lives.”

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which runs the contest, has refused calls for Israel to be banned from taking part for its actions in Gaza , in a similar way that Russia was banned for its invasion of fellow competitor Ukraine.

Israel’s song has, though, been rewritten at the EBU’s request, with its original title October Rain changed to Hurricane, as it was deemed to be a direct political reference to the Hamas assault inside southern Israel on 7 October.

Our community team would like to hear from students on US campuses, and those in the UK and other countries in Europe attending universities where demonstrations are taking place. They would like to hear from those who are participating as well as those who are not.

For those in the US, you can contact them via this page .

For those in Europe and the UK, you can contact them here .

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Middle East Crisis Netanyahu Again Vows to Invade Rafah ‘With or Without’ Cease-Fire Deal

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• A Palestinian man passing destroyed buildings in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza. Mohammed Saber/EPA, via Shutterstock
• The funeral of an Israeli reserve soldier in Carmiel, northern Israel. Ariel Schalit/Associated Press
• A displaced Palestinian woman in Rafah, southern Gaza. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• An Israeli artillery unit fires toward Gaza from near the border. Amir Cohen/Reuters
• An aid airdrop over the northern Gaza Strip. Abdel Kareem Hana/Associated Press
• Palestinians in Deir el-Balah. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Netanyahu’s pledge to invade Rafah could undermine efforts to reach a cease-fire deal.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel once again pledged on Tuesday to launch a ground invasion into the southern Gazan city of Rafah, a move that could undermine efforts to negotiate a cease-fire agreement after seven months of war in the Palestinian enclave.

The United States, Qatar and several countries have been pushing to get a cease-fire deal, with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visiting the region and expectations rising that Hamas and Israel might be edging closer to an agreement.

But with Hamas arguing that any agreement should include an end to the war, and with right-wing politicians in Israel threatening to leave the government coalition if the long-planned incursion into Rafah is delayed, Mr. Netanyahu made clear that Israel would reserve the right to keep fighting.

“The idea that we will halt the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question,” he said in a meeting with the families of hostages held in Gaza, according to a statement from his office. “We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there — with or without a deal, in order to achieve the total victory.”

Israeli officials have said repeatedly that they plan to move into Rafah, but over the weekend, they made clear they were open to holding off if it meant they could secure the release of hostages taken when Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7. One official also suggested that Israel was using the threat of an imminent military maneuver to press the armed group into a hostage deal.

In anticipation of an offensive, some families in Rafah have been moving north into areas of Gaza that had already been attacked by Israeli forces, but on Tuesday, the scale of the evacuation remained unclear. As of last week, more than one million Gazans, many of them previously displaced from other parts of the territory by Israeli bombardment, were still sheltering in the city in makeshift tents.

American officials and other allies have been pressing Israel to either avoid an assault on Rafah or develop specific plans to adequately minimize civilian casualties.

On Tuesday, Mr. Blinken met with officials in Jordan to discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, and to press for peace and an increase in humanitarian aid. There was no immediate reaction from the State Department to Mr. Netanyahu’s remarks.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain spoke to Mr. Netanyahu on Tuesday, his office said in a statement. The British leader “continued to push for an immediate humanitarian pause to allow more aid in and hostages out” and said that Britain’s focus was on de-escalation, it said.

For weeks, cease-fire talks had been at a standstill. But Israeli officials have said that negotiators have reduced the number of hostages they want Hamas to release during the first phase of a truce, opening up the possibility that the stalled negotiations could be revived.

A senior Hamas official said on social media on Monday that the group was studying a new Israeli proposal.

A Hamas delegation met with officials in Egypt’s intelligence service on Monday, according to a senior Hamas official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to talk about sensitive discussions between Hamas and Egypt.

Adam Rasgon contributed reporting.

— Damien Cave

The White House presses Hamas to accept the cease-fire deal on the table.

The White House said on Tuesday that “time is of the essence” for cease-fire talks in the Middle East as negotiators tried to broker a deal to pause the war in Gaza and secure the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas since the Oct. 7 terrorist attack.

President Biden’s advisers feel a sense of urgency to finally break through the months of stalemate while Israeli leaders appear open to an agreement and before they open their long-threatened military assault on Rafah, the southern Gaza city where more than one million Palestinians have taken refuge.

“I wouldn’t say that we’re overly confident,” John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, told reporters, attempting to lower expectations given the history of failed talks until now. “I would say we’re being very pragmatic about this. This is a good proposal. This is a very good proposal and Hamas ought to jump on it and time is of the essence.”

The American-sponsored proposal would halt the war for about six weeks in its first stage in exchange for the release of women, older men and hostages with health conditions. Israel has agreed to lower the number to be released in that first stage to 33 from 40 and would also release hundreds of Palestinians held in its prisons.

Mr. Kirby made clear that the United States remained opposed to an Israeli ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah without an effective plan to protect civilians, which American officials have said they have not seen. “We don’t want to see a major ground operation in Rafah,” Mr. Kirby said. “That hasn’t changed.”

But he gave Israel credit for doing more to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza since Mr. Biden threatened to rethink his support for Israel’s military operation during a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel four weeks ago.

He said more than 5,000 trucks of food, medicine and other goods have entered Gaza since then, with about 200 more trucks a day and sometimes as many as 400.

— Peter Baker

As Israel plans to invade Rafah, a family makes the difficult choice to uproot itself again.

Mohammed Foara said his wife could not stop talking about how much she wanted to flee Rafah, where their family was among more than a million people who had sought safety from Israeli bombardment and fighting elsewhere in Gaza.

Their oldest child had already been killed by an airstrike in Nuseirat, in central Gaza, where the family had sheltered before they came to Rafah. As Israel warned it was preparing to invade Rafah, she asked him: Is that not reason enough to leave?

Finally, Mr. Foara agreed, he said, and the family packed up their meager possessions and moved for a fifth time in nearly seven months of war. They joined some Palestinians who have begun to flee, once again, this time leaving Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, before a widely anticipated Israeli attack.

“I escaped Rafah just to keep the other children alive and safe,” said Mr. Foara. He has been haunted by the death of his son, Anas, 21, who was killed by an airstrike when he went out to find cigarettes.

“I fear for them more and more,” he said of his four surviving children.

Israel has called Rafah the last Hamas stronghold in Gaza, and said that invading the city is key to its goal of dismantling the group behind the Oct. 7 attack, which Israeli officials say killed about 1,200 people.

The war in Gaza has killed more than 34,000 people, according to local health authorities. Some 1.7 million — in a territory of roughly 2.2 million — have been driven from their homes, many of them multiple times, according to the United Nations.

The Foara family fled their home in Gaza City early in the war, where they moved within the city twice, and then spent four months in Nuseirat. They went to Rafah after their son was killed.

They are now in an area near the central Gazan city of Deir al Balah, in a camp that is so new that there are not yet any humanitarian groups working there, and there is no medical assistance, either, Mr. Foara said. They received a nylon-and-cloth tent from local residents marked with the number 170.

“That means there are more than 170 families in this area,” Mr. Foara said on a recent day last week, the hot sun beating down. “I hope to not evacuate this place.”

Residents in the area who have remained in their homes amid the war helped Mr. Foara build the tent, he said, and gave his family water.

At the entrance to the camp, there are vendors selling falafel and other food at prices that have been inflated by the war. A tank of water costs about $100, but before the war it cost about $25, Mr. Foara said.

That is too much for Mr. Foara, who before the war was paid about $400 per month as a civil servant for the Palestinian Authority, a rival to Hamas. He is determined to keep his family alive, but sometimes the weight of the tragedy that has befallen them — and the rest of Gaza — is almost too much to bear.

“I feel like I am just a block of negative feelings — anxiety and depression,” he said. “We used to watch these scenes of tents in Yemen and Syria, and now it is a reality here.”

— Liam Stack and Bilal Shbair

The U.N.’s top court declined to ban Germany’s weapons sales to Israel.

The United Nation’s highest court on Tuesday rejected a request from Nicaragua to order Germany to stop supplying arms to Israel.

The judges on the International Court of Justice said no special court order was required, citing Germany’s arguments that it has stringent licensing standards to avoid the misuse of weapons and that it had issued few export licenses since late last year.

The judges’ decision pertained to a broader case brought by Nicaragua against Germany with potentially wide implications on whether suppliers of military aid to Israel share some responsibility for how the weapons are used.

Still, the judges did not grant Germany’s request to throw out the main complaint that Nicaragua has filed against Germany, meaning that case is likely to go ahead.

Nicaragua has argued that Germany is violating the 1948 Genocide Convention because its military and financial aid to Israel is facilitating the possible commission of genocide in Gaza.

A final decision on that Nicaraguan complaint may have to await the court’s decision on a separate case brought by South Africa, alleging that Israel has committed genocide. The decision in the South African complaint could take up to two years.

With the death toll rising from the conflict in Gaza, however, Nicaragua had also asked the I.C.J. to issue an emergency order for Germany to halt its arms exports to Israel altogether and to ensure that weapons already supplied were not unlawfully used.

A majority of the panel declined the request in a 15 to 1 vote, but the court said in its ruling that it “remains deeply concerned about the catastrophic living conditions of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”

The ruling, signed by the court’s president, Nawaf Salam, reminded nations of their obligation to avoid providing arms that might be used to violate the Genocide Convention. “All these obligations are incumbent upon Germany as a State party to the said Conventions in its supply of arms to Israel,” the decision said.

William Schabas, a professor of law at Middlesex University in London, said that warning “has provided ammunition to lawyers who will challenge arms shipments to Israel before domestic courts, as is happening right now in several countries.”

The German Foreign Ministry welcomed the court’s ruling.

“Germany is not a party to the conflict in the Middle East — on the contrary: We are working day and night for a two-state solution,” the ministry said in a statement on social media.

The statement added that Germany was also working to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches Gazans and that Hamas was responsible for setting off a “spiral of suffering” in the region, against which it said Israel had a right to defend itself.

Germany and Nicaragua are parties to the 1948 Genocide Convention, which binds them to act to prevent genocide, defined as the intent to destroy a group not only by killing or causing serious bodily or mental harm, but also by inflicting “conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.”

Israel has repeatedly denied accusations that it is carrying out a genocide in Gaza, arguing that its military has worked to preserve civilian life and that Hamas has used civilians as human shields.

Earlier this year, the I.C.J. found in the South African case that the risk of genocide taking place was plausible. The court issued separate interim orders, requested by South Africa , specifying that Israel must prevent its forces in Gaza from taking actions that are banned under the Genocide Convention, must prevent and punish public statements that constitute incitements to genocide, and must allow more access to humanitarian aid. The judges also called for immediate release of all hostages still held by Hamas.

Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, is second only to the United States in providing it with military assistance. But in presenting its case before the I.C.J., it argued that its shipments to Israel are always licensed under German and European rules. The main thrust of Germany’s argument was that almost all of its recent military assistance to Israel was nonlethal aid.

Unlike Germany, which has given the I.C.J. full jurisdiction, the United States has shielded itself and on most issues has to consent to a case. It has protected itself even further from the Genocide Convention, signing the convention but explicitly refusing the court’s jurisdiction here.

Critics of the Nicaraguan government say that its pursuit of Germany for breaking international law is hypocritical: A recent U.N. report accused Nicaragua of “systematic human rights violations” and increasing repression of government opponents at home.

Erika Solomon contributed reporting.

— Marlise Simons reporting from Paris

Germany’s military support of Israel is being challenged, despite the I.C.J.’s decision.

Even as the U.N.’s highest court declined to order Germany to stop sending arms to Israel, another lawsuit in a German court sought to cut off the flow of military aid.

Several rights groups filed a joint lawsuit against the German government in an administrative court in Berlin in early April. The suit seeks to suspend the delivery of weapons yet to be sent to Israel under current export licenses issued by the German government, and to block any additional arms deliveries. This week, the court said it expected that Germany would not authorize any more exports until it had issued its ruling.

Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, is the second-largest provider of military aid to the country after the United States.

Earlier this month, Nicaragua brought a case against Germany at the International Court of Justice, where it argued that Germany was violating the Genocide Convention by providing Israel with military and financial aid amid Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. On Tuesday, the I.C.J. decided against issuing an emergency order that would have required Germany to stop providing arms to Israel.

Germany’s legal team had argued before the I.C.J. that most of its exports to Israel were nonlethal, such as protective gear, communications equipment and defense equipment against chemical hazards .

But Nicaragua and the rights groups have mentioned that Germany has delivered 3,000 antitank weapons, as well as items like spare parts for vehicles, which could be used as part of the ongoing military offensive even though they were described as nonlethal.

The Berlin-based European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, or E.C.C.H.R., joined with three Palestinian legal and human rights organizations to file the lawsuit on behalf of five Palestinians living in Gaza who have lost family members during Israeli rocket attacks.

The lawyers argue that Germany is violating its obligations under international law, as well as its own weapons control act, by supplying arms to Israel. The weapons, they say, are “being used to kill and displace civilians, destroy civilian infrastructure in Gaza, as well as control and limit the transfer and distribution of humanitarian aid.”

On Tuesday, Berlin’s administrative court said it had told the German government last week that it must not issue any additional export licenses while the case is being deliberated, and to inform the court if it intends to export any more weapons so that the court could make an emergency ruling on the matter. A ruling is currently expected by June, according to German news media reports.

“A basic prerequisite for a rules-based and human rights-oriented German foreign policy is respect for the law in its own decision-making,” Wolfgang Kaleck, the general secretary of the E.C.C.H.R., said in a statement when the lawsuit was filed on April 12. “Germany cannot remain true to its values if it exports weapons to a war where serious violations of international humanitarian law are apparent.”

Israel’s conduct in the war has increased both international and domestic pressure on the German government to take a tougher stance toward Israel.

In recent months, Germany has begun to signal the limits of its support for Israel’s military campaign: It has voiced objections to Israeli plans to attack the southern border town of Rafah, where more than a million Gazans have sought shelter. Annalena Baerbock, the German foreign minister, said during a visit to Israel last month that she would send a delegation to the country to “remind” it of its obligations under international humanitarian law.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel once again pledged to launch a ground invasion into Rafah, despite ongoing efforts to negotiate a cease-fire agreement in the war in Gaza.

— Erika Solomon and Christopher F. Schuetze

Blinken’s Mideast tour continues in Jordan, where he discussed humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visited a warehouse in Jordan on Tuesday where workers were loading trucks for the first attempt to send medical and food aid overland from Jordan to the Israel-Gaza border crossing of Erez. He praised the start of the new aid corridor and also said a pier being built by the U.S. military to bring aid by sea to coastal Gaza would be operational in about one week.

“This is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done,” he told reporters traveling with him across the Middle East this week. “And in particular, we have to make sure our focus is not on inputs, but on impact and really measuring whether the aid that people need is getting to them in an effective way.”

Distribution of aid in Gaza has been a challenge, especially in the devastated northern part of the strip. That has been made more difficult by the fact that the Biden administration recently said the United States had stopped giving money to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, the main aid agency operating in the strip, after Israel accused some of its workers of taking part in the Oct. 7 attacks in southern Israel.

The trucks bound for Erez are organized by the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, and the aid has been donated by various international groups. The first of these trucks were scheduled to leave the warehouse near the city of Zarqa, Jordan, on Tuesday night and to arrive at Erez on Wednesday, when Mr. Blinken will be in Israel to speak with Israeli officials. Workers put wooden pallets of boxes of aid onto the trucks using forklifts.

Shortly before arriving at the warehouse in the early evening, Mr. Blinken met with several Palestinian women who had left Gaza during the war and who still have family members there.

“I heard the suffering that they endured and that their friends and family continue to endure every day,” Mr. Blinken said.

Mr. Blinken also called on Hamas to commit to an agreement to release some civilian hostages in exchange for a temporary cease-fire and the liberation of scores of Palestinian prisoners.

The Biden administration is trying to increase pressure on Hamas to accept the deal. Israeli officials said this week that they were willing to lower their demand for the number of hostages in an initial release to 33 from 40.

Mr. Blinken discussed the proposed deal at meetings in Saudi Arabia on Monday and again in Jordan on Tuesday. He planned to do the same in Israel on Wednesday, according to State Department officials.

After arriving in Jordan on Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Blinken first went to separate meetings with the foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, and with King Abdullah II.

Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesman, said Mr. Blinken and the Jordanian king discussed the cease-fire proposal along with Jordan’s humanitarian aid contributions to Gaza.

On his seventh trip to the Middle East since the war began last October, Mr. Blinken and his aides have been trying to work on a range of issues, including Israel’s continuing need for U.S. weapons, the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza and a plan for a political solution to the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Before he went to the aid warehouse on Tuesday, Mr. Blinken also met with Sigrid Kaag, the United Nations coordinator for Gaza, to discuss humanitarian aid needs in Gaza.

“This is a critical moment in making sure that everything that needs to be done is actually being done,” Mr. Blinken said at the start of the meeting.

In talks with Jordanian officials, Mr. Blinken also spoke about issues involving the leadership of the Palestinian Authority, which governs the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The Biden administration has called for a more technocratic Palestinian Authority, which is considered by many Palestinians to be authoritarian and corrupt , in the hopes that it could help govern postwar Gaza — an idea that Israel’s government opposes. Jordanian officials have close ties with Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the authority, and other prominent Palestinians in the organization. Mr. Blinken has not met with Mr. Abbas on his trip.

— Edward Wong traveling with the U.S. secretary of state in the Middle East

Officials from Hamas and Fatah, longtime rivals, met in China.

Officials from Hamas and Fatah, the main Palestinian factions that have long competed for power in Gaza and the West Bank, met in Beijing recently for what Chinese officials on Tuesday called “in-depth and candid talks on promoting intra-Palestinian reconciliation.”

The discussions in Beijing were not expected to produce much. Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has deepened support for Hamas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where the Palestinian Authority — controlled by Fatah — has administered cities and towns for decades. U.S. officials have suggested that the Palestinian Authority could help govern a postwar Gaza, though that would most likely require approval from Hamas.

And that kind of power-sharing would require more compromise than currently seems possible. Fatah and Hamas met in late February in Russia without any apparent progress toward a unified government. They remain canyons apart on many issues, especially with Fatah demanding that Hamas dismantle its armed wing — a move that the militant group has repeatedly dismissed in the past.

And yet, for Beijing, the meetings most likely served a larger purpose: to present China as a great power and peacemaker in opposition to the United States.

Beijing helped restore diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia , and it has also floated a set of principles to end the conflict in Ukraine, although Ukraine and its Western allies have said those principles lack credibility . Declaring solidarity with the Palestinian cause adds to the case China hopes to make to smaller countries around the world that feel alienated by the West, according to analysts.

“The thread which ties these initiatives to Beijing’s broader foreign policy is its claim to be able to represent developing countries, or what they like to call the ‘global south,’” said Richard McGregor, a senior fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute in Sydney.

“Such gestures, and they are in large part gestures for the moment,” he added, “fits with China’s current priorities, which is to learn the habits of a great power with the heft and skill to bring warring parties to the table.”

The officials who attended the gathering in the Chinese capital included Mousa Abu Marzouk, a senior member of Hamas’s political wing, and Azzam al-Ahmad, a member of the Fatah Central Committee, according to Palestinian officials.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, told a news briefing on Tuesday that representatives of Hamas and Fatah had “recently” held talks in Beijing and had agreed to continue a dialogue. He did not specify when the meeting was held.

Fatah and Hamas have a fraught history . When Israel withdrew all its troops and citizens from Gaza in 2005, it handed power there to the Palestinian Authority. But Fatah lost a legislative election the next year to Hamas. In 2007, Hamas seized power in Gaza in a short and brutal civil war, dividing the Palestinians not only territorially, but politically.

Joy Dong contributed research.

— Damien Cave and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Biden speaks to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to press for Hamas’s agreement on a new cease-fire.

President Biden spoke on Monday with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar as he sought to increase pressure on Hamas to accept a deal that would result in a temporary cease-fire in the war in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages held there.

According to a statement from the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, he and Mr. Biden discussed the negotiations and Egypt’s efforts to broker a cease-fire. They also reiterated their support for a two-state solution, discussed the importance of containing the conflict to the region and emphasized their opposition to a military escalation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, which Israel seems poised to invade.

Mr. Biden also spoke on Monday with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar. According to the White House, Mr. Biden urged the Qatari leader “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” saying that “this is now the only obstacle” to an immediate cease-fire.

Mr. al-Sisi and Mr. al-Thani have been prime intermediaries with Hamas through months of fitful negotiations to reach a deal to halt the hostilities, and Mr. Biden hopes they will prod the group’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, to accept the U.S.-brokered proposal on the table. On Sunday, Mr. Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, expressed a hopeful view of the prospects for an agreement. “In recent days, there has been progress in talks,” she told reporters at the White House.

Like other American officials, Ms. Jean-Pierre said that Hamas, not Israel, was the obstacle to an agreement.

“The onus is indeed on Hamas,” she said. “There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it.”

— Peter Baker reporting from Washington

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