Jordan

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

On January 3, 2020, an Iranian senior commander and Iraqi paramilitary leaders were killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad International Airport. On 8 January, Iran fired missiles against two military bases in Iraq. Iranian authorities have also acknowledged responsibility for the shooting down of a Ukrainian International Airlines flight shortly after take-off from Tehran on 8 January. Be alert and monitor media for the latest update.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations 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 other times.

They're likely to occur:

• near large mosques, ministries and diplomatic missions

• at major intersections

• in downtown areas of Amman

Demonstrations also occur in regional centres, including:

• Irbid

• Zarqa

• Mafraq

• Madaba

• Karak

• Tafileh

• Ma'an

• Ajloun

• Salt

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

To stay safe:

• avoid all demonstrations and protests

• check the media for possible unrest

• avoid possible unrest on national days or commemorations

• change your plans if there are disruptions

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 and gunfire.

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

Extremists say they plan to attack Westerners in Jordan.

Jordanian authorities have stopped terrorist plots in recent years.

Recent attacks include:

• November 2019 - an attacker with a knife injured 4 tourists and 4 Jordanian's near the Visitor's Centre at the Jerash Roman ruins

• August 2018 - terrorists killed a member of the Jordanian security forces near the village of Fuheis, near Amman

• June 2017 - terrorists killed 5 members of the Jordanian security forces at the Baqaa refugee camp north of Amman

• December 2016 - terrorists caused several casualties in Al-Karak governorate, south of Amman

• June 2016 - in a Daesh-claimed attack, 6 members of the Jordanian security forces were killed at Rukban

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

Expats are targeted at:

• embassies

• expat housing areas and schools

• outdoor events

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

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

To stay safe:

• 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 tools that work

• 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.

More information:

• Terrorist threats

People have reported:

• robbery with violence

• bag snatching

• burglaries

• assaults against foreigners in tourist areas, including assaults by unlicensed guides

• bags stolen from hotels and vehicles

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 die to local laws and cultural differences. See 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

Firearms are more common than in Australia. Criminals sometimes use firearms. 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.

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 taxis, especially when travelling alone

• pay attention to your surroundings, and leave if you feel uncomfortable

More information:

• Women travellers

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. Snow storms also happen.

The rainy season runs from November to March and can cause floods. Valleys (wadis) are most at risk.

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

• follow the advice of local authorities

• stay in contact with friends and family

This advice predates COVID-19 and the Australian Government's travel ban for all Australians.

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 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers

• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

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.

More information:

• General health advice

• International travel and health

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. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is

• how much you'll take

• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medications

COVID-19

The Jordanian Ministry of Health has confirmed that COVID-19 is present in the country. If you are in Jordan and have symptoms of respiratory illness, contact a doctor as soon as possible. Monitor the media for information on latest developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

More information:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak (WHO)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

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

• Saudi Arabia

• Jordan

• Qatar

• Kuwait

• Oman

• 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.

More information:

• MERS information card

Other health risks

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

• hepatitis

• typhoid

• measles

• brucellosis

• sandfly fever

• rabies

• 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.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

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 up-front. 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.

Drugs

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

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

More information:

• 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. 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 imprison you if you do any of the following:

• have sex outside of marriage, even if both partners consent, or are in a de-facto relationship or civil union

• 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

Research local laws before you travel.

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

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

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 then postpone your service each year.

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

More information:

• Dual nationals

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. 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.

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.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place.

You need a visa to visit Jordan.

If you're a tourist, you can get a single-entry visa that's valid for 30 days.  You can get these on arrival at airports. They're also available at the Sheikh Hussein or North Border crossing at the border between Jordan and Israel.

The purchase of a Jordan Pass pre-arrival waives visa fees of JD40 (if staying a minimum of 3 nights) as well as providing access to 36 tourist sites across the country.

Entry visas are not available at:

• the Wadi Araba crossing between Aqaba, Jordan and Eilat, Israel

• the Allenby and King Hussein Bridge on the border between Jordan and Israel

You need to arrange a visa in advance if:

• you plan to stay for more than a month

• you're going to Jordan to do something other than be a tourist, such as work or study 

• you're entering Jordan at the border crossings at Wadi Araba or the Allenby and King Hussein Bridge

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

Jordan's borders remain closed and commercial flights to and from the country remain suspended.

You can’t enter Jordan without a special permission from the Jordanian authorities. If you have an approval, you’ll need to undertake 14 days of quarantine in a government facility.

Some National Defence Law restrictions remain in place and may change at short-notice. Monitor government announcements as well as media sources and follow the advice of local authorities.

If you're staying in Jordan:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19
• ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay
• keep in contact with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.

There are rules if you stay more than a month. You must register with the police. You may 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 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 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.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

The border crossing with Israel, Iraq and Syria have been closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

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

Authorities can close the border crossing between Jordan and the West Bank at short notice.

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

Validity

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.

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.

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Declare all amounts over JOD 15,000 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.

Along Jordan's borders, there's a danger of unexploded weapons, including landmines. 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.

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.

More information:

• 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 hone service can make it difficult to obtain assistance. Even routine vehicle breakdowns can be dangerous.

By law:

• 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.

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

• 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 such as Highway 10 (east of Highway 5), 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.

More information:

• Driving or riding

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. 

Taxis

Use only licensed taxis or reputable 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. Drivers may not follow safety standards.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

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

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Air travel

Australian officials have been advised against travelling on flights that cross Syrian airspace. If you have concerns, check your airline's flight path before booking. Flight paths are subject to change.

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

Check Jordan's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends

• travel agent

• insurance provider

• employer

• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 911.

Medical emergencies

Call 911.

Police

Call 911.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

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

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

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: (+962) 6 580 7000

Fax: (+962) 6 580 7001

Email: consular.amman@dfat.gov.au

Website: jordan.embassy.gov.au

The working week is 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