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.

Travel to the border regions with Iraq and Syria should be avoided given the continued threat of cross-border violence, including the risk of terrorist attacks. The security situation in Syria continues to evolve and security threats in the form of instability or terrorist activity could arise with little or no notice.

Demonstrations regularly occur over the weekends in Amman, particularly on Thursday evenings, near the Prime Ministry at the 4th Circle. Similar demonstrations also occur in other towns or cities. Political demonstrations and gatherings, which can arise at short notice, should be avoided. These often occur in the downtown area of Amman and the centres of other towns and cities after Friday midday prayers. Follow the advice of local authorities and stay informed of the security situation through the media and this travel advice.

Avoid travel to refugee camps in Jordan. These are managed by the Government of Jordan. You must receive the Government of Jordan’s approval for any travel into refugee camps.

Terrorism

There is a heightened risk of terrorism in Jordan and visitors need to be aware of the risk of a terror attack. Enhanced security measures are in place across Jordan, most visibly at hotels and shopping malls. Targets could include places visited by foreigners, particularly hotels, shopping malls and tourist sites. Other areas include government buildings and places of worship. You should take extra care, and in the event of an incident, follow the advice of the Jordanian authorities.

If you need the emergency help, contact the Irish Embassy in Amman. Emergency services can be reached by calling 911.

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 on public transport or in crowded downtown areas.

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

• Dress conservatively
• Travel in groups
• Avoid travel, in particular while alone, during the dark
• Sit in the back seats of taxis.

Reporting Crime

If you’re a victim of crime while in Jordan, report it to the local police immediately. Contact the Irish Embassy in Amman 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.

When taking a taxi, ask your hotel to recommend a reliable taxi company or driver. Women should not take yellow taxis (street taxis) on their own. If a woman has to take a taxi on her own, she should sit in the back seat. Uber and Careem are widely used in Amman and are generally good options for taxi travel.

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 inappropriate, improper, hostile or maybe even illegal.

Muslim Culture

Jordan is a conservative and predominantly Muslim society, and you should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religious. 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 intent 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. You should also be aware that during Ramadan there is an increased risk of unrest as people are irritable and the roads, especially in Amman, are significantly busier and subsequently more dangerous at peak hours.

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 degrees Celcius 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

Drainage systems are poor, particularly on roads and highways. As a result of this driving becomes significantly more dangerous, even in Amman. During heavy rains flash flooding can occur and can often be damaging. The rainy season is typically from November until March. It is advised to follow local weather updates regularly, particularly during heavy rain.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Irish citizens need a visa to enter Jordan. Tourist visas can be purchased on arrival at the airport (Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, or at Aqaba airport in the south) for 40 JOD. These are valid for one month and can be extended for up to 3 months at a local police station. Visas can also be obtained from the Honorary Consul of Jordan in Dublin.

Passports must be valid for at least six months from date of entry into Jordan.

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 exist stamps issued at the border crossing in Jordan or if your luggage has stickers indicating you have been to Israel.

Water

Tap water is not safe to drink - bottled water should be purchased instead.