Safety and security

Unrest

Regional developments have the potential to trigger popular unrest in Jordan, although the country hasn’t seen unrest on the scale of that elsewhere in the region. Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, and the escalation of the insurgency in Iraq, we would strongly advise against all travel in the vicinity of the borders with Syria and Iraq.  We advise you to exercise caution in all other areas of Jordan and avoid travel to refugee camps.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may still take place and have the potential to result in violence. We advise you to avoid demonstrations and public gatherings and always keep yourself informed of what’s going on around you by monitoring local media and staying in contact with your hotel or tour organiser.

Terrorism

While there has not been a major attack for several years you should be aware that there is a threat of terrorism in Jordan.

Crime

Most visits to Jordan are crime free but you should take all normal precautions while travelling: 

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place. 
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.

Reporting crime

If you’re a victim of a crime while in Jordan, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Cairo, in Egypt if you need help.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Jordan, you should be extremely careful as there are a high number of road accidents and road conditions outside of Amman can be poor. If you want to drive:

• Bring your full Irish driver’s licence and your international driving permit and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights
• Be aware all cars must carry a fire extinguisher and warning triangle

Traffic police

Police perform random security checks of vehicles on Jordanian highways and when travelling by car, you should carry identification at all times to present at police checkpoints.

Hiring a vehicle

If you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms. 

Muslim culture

Jordan is a conservative and predominantly Muslim society, and you should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Dress conservatively outside of resorts (women's clothes should cover their legs and upper arms), be aware of your actions and take care not to offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or other religious festivals, or if you intend to visit religious areas.

During Ramadan, Muslims are not permitted to eat, drink or smoke during daylight hours. To avoid offence, you should not eat, drink or smoke in public during this time.

Law enforcement

While you’re in Jordan, you’re subject to local laws, including ones that may seem harsh by Irish standards. Parents in particular should be aware that local laws regarding custody, etc of children are significantly different to those in force in Ireland.

If you’re involved in local legal matters, particularly with regard to family law, we strongly advise you to get professional legal advice.

LGBT

Under Jordanian law homosexuality is illegal. Public displays of affection between same sex couples may lead to arrest and incarceration so caution and discretion are advised at all times.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate

The temperature in some areas can reach over 40° C in the summer months. Remember to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Sand and dust storms can occur, particularly in desert areas.

Earthquake

There are occasional earthquake tremors in Jordan. These may lead to rock falls and landslides. If you’re travelling to or living in Jordan, make sure you know what to do in the event of an earthquake.

Flooding

In valleys (wadis), flooding, and flash-flooding can take place in the rainy season, which is typically from November to March.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Irish citizens need a visa to enter Jordan. For entry requirements for Jordan, please contact the Honorary Consul of Jordan in Dublin. You can also check with them how long your passport must be valid for.

Health

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus (MERS-CoV)

Since 2012, there have been cases of infection from Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in the Arabian Peninsula. For the latest information, go to the WHO website and Health Protection Surveillance Centre website.

Water

In general tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is cheap and readily available.

Regional travel

If you travel between Jordan and Israel, you may experience difficulties or be refused entry to some other countries in the region if your passport has evidence of travel to Israel. This includes entry and exit stamps issued at the border crossings in Jordan or if your luggage has stickers indicating you have been to Israel.