Middle East: Jordan



Jordan Tourism Board North America (JTBNA) would like to give you a taste of what you may experience in Jordan, and for that reason, we invite you to learn all about the astounding sites in the country, including the capital Amman, the magnificent Nabataean city of Petra, the spectacular Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash, Lawrence of Arabia’s famous Wadi Rum, and many other historical and impressive sites throughout the Kingdom. A well-traveled bridge between sea and desert, east and west, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a land of mesmerizing beauty and contrasts, from the Jordan Valley, fertile, ever changing, to the remote desert canyons, immense and still. Visitors can explore splendid desert castles or bathe in the restful waters of the Red Sea.

For adventure lovers, there is horse-back riding, 4x4 safaris, rock climbing and hiking. For taking it easy, nothing on earth compares to the Dead Sea and its many spa facilities. Experience the biblical Jordan visiting Bethany Beyond the Jordan where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, Mount Nebo where Moses saw the Promised Land, Madaba the City of Mosaics and various other sites of this eastern Holy Land.

Modern Jordan was founded by King Abdullah I after World War I. It was ruled by his grandson, The Late King Hussein, for 46 years until his death in 1999, when his son King Abdullah II assumed the throne. Jordan has grown into a modern nation which has enjoyed a remarkable measure of peace, stability and economic growth in recent decades.

Jordan at a Glance

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, which once captivated ancient travelers, continues to enthrall a whole new generation as a modern, vibrant nation.

From the haunting, primeval starkness of Wadi Rum, to the teeming centre of urban Amman; from the majestic ruins of bygone civilizations to the timeless splendor of the Dead Sea, Jordan is unveiled as a unique destination offering breathtaking and mysterious sights, high standard accommodations, exquisite cuisine and countless activities that can provide visitors with inspiration, motivation, and rejuvenation.

Marveling at herds of gazelles and Oryx and migrating birds, camping amidst the grandeur of Wadi Rum or Dana Reserve, trekking the ancient caravan trails from the highlands of Moab and Edom, hiking the wooded hills of biblical Gilead, or experiencing the unique, cleansing mud baths of the Dead Sea are just a few examples of the treasures awaiting visitors to this unique kingdom.

The new stream of luxury hotels emerging in Amman, Petra, Aqaba and the Dead Sea is just adding quality to a refined product that is distinct, accessible and friendly. A product that is home to a new display of modern meeting facilities and unique venues for incentive travel.

Whether it is a conference for 5000 people, a lavish dinner in the peerless desert of Wadi Rum, a barbecue at the shores of the Dead Sea ( the lowest point on earth ), or a reception atop a medieval castle overlooking the Jordan Valley, the amicable and competent people of Jordan will ensure a once in a life time memorable experience.

Here’s a quick guide on some of the wonders of Jordan:

Ajloun, is the city where the Ajloun Castle (Qal'at Ar-Rabad) is located. It was built by one of Salaheddin's generals in 1184 AD to control the iron mines of Ajloun and to deter the Franks from invading the city.

Jerash, one of the most well preserved Greco-Roman Cities in the world, is a close second to Petra on the list of favorite destinations in Jordan. The ancient city of Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years.

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a fascinating city of contrasts – a unique blend of old and new, ideally situated on a hilly area between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley.

Umayyad Desert Castles are scattered throughout the black basalt desert, east of Amman. They stand as a testament to the flourishing beginnings of Islamic-Arab civilizations. These seemingly isolated pavilions, caravan stations, secluded baths, and hunting lodges, were at one time integrated agricultural or trading complexes, built mostly under the Umayyads (AD 661-750), when Muslim Arabs had succeeded in transforming the fringes of the desert into well-watered settlements. Aside from being widely considered as the most spectacular and original monuments of early Islamic art, these complexes also served practical purposes: namely, as residences, caravanserais, and baths.

Bethany beyond the Jordan, where Jesus was baptized by his cousin, John the Baptist, in fulfillment of the Scriptures. In this simple wilderness, the heavens opened and the first recorded revelation of the Trinity occurred. Here, Jesus began his public ministry – and Christianity was born. Today, visitors from all over the world follow in the footsteps of the early Christians and come to be baptized in the same waters. The 25-acre Baptism Archaeological Park features a visitor center and 17 designated locations, including Elijah’s Hill, where tradition says the prophet Elijah ascended to heaven long before John came to this wilderness to preach and baptize in the Spirit of Elijah.

Dead Sea, without doubt, is one of the world’s most exquisite places. Home of the largest open-air spa at the lowest point on the face of the earth at over 1,312 ft. below sea level. Fed by the Jordan River, this land-locked sea boasts a dense, rich cocktail of salts and minerals that supply industry, agriculture, medicine and spa treatments with some of its finest products.

Mount Nebo, where Moses viewed the Promised Land and is said to be buried, is the location of a basilica church that has one of the most magnificent mosaic floors in the world. From the platform in front of the church, visitors have an inspiring, breathtaking view across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea to the rooftops of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Madaba, “The City of Mosaics” – is where visitors can see some of the finest art of the early Christian centuries. The most famous are the remains of a Sixth Century mosaic map of the Holy Land, considered the oldest and most accurate surviving map of the region. Housed in the Orthodox Church of St. George, the “Madaba Map” has been a valuable source of historical information and place-names, which in many cases have combined with the results of archaeological excavations to determine the ancient names and locations of Biblical sites.

Kerak, is the location of the most impressive remains of Crusader forts and outposts. Kerak Castle, high atop a promontory, is a maze of stone-vaulted halls and endless passageways.

Dana Nature Reserve is a world of natural treasures. It is composed of a chain of valleys and mountains which extend from the top of the Jordan Rift Valley down to the desert lowlands of Wadi Araba. It contains a remarkable diversity of landscapes that range from wooded highlands to rocky slopes and from gravel plains to dunes of sand.

Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve is the lowest-altitude nature reserve in the world, with its spectacular array of scenery near the East coast of the Dead Sea. Over 420 species of plants, 102 species of permanent and migratory birds and 10 species of carnivore including the Red Fox, Blandford Fox, Hyena, Jackal, Wild Cat, Caracal, Badger, Mongoose, Wolf and Arabian Leopard have been recorded to date.

Petra, Jordan’s prized possession, the magnificent Nabataean city of Petra, one of the world’s new seven wonders, and popularized by the movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” This rose-red city half as old as time, is known for its dramatic tombs and temple facades, including one that served as a church during Byzantine times. The city’s inhabitants, Nabataean Arabs, carved structures into the soft sandstone more than two millennia ago.

Wadi Rum is a stupendous, timeless place, virtually untouched by humanity. Here, weather and winds have carved the imposing, towering skyscrapers, so elegantly described by T.E. Lawrence as “vast, echoing and god-like”.

Aqaba, Jordan’s splendid Red Sea resort is a fun place to visit. It is a microcosm of all the good things Jordan has to offer, including a fascinating history with some outstanding sites, excellent hotels and activities, superb visitor facilities, good shopping, and welcoming, friendly people, who enjoy nothing more than making sure their visitors, have a good time.

In summary, every half an hour drive into Jordan is a different attraction and experience, from the north all through to the south, its land encompasses all, sea and mountain, waterfall and desert. So you see, Jordan’s diversity is not the best kept secret anymore. There are so many places to visit and great experiences to have in this magical Kingdom, which once captivated ancient travelers, and now continues to enthrall a whole new generation as a modern, vibrant nation that guarantees every traveler a trip of a lifetime!

Where is Jordan?
Jordan is located in the Middle East and borders Syria, Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea, Palestine, Israel, and Iraq. Covering some 89,342 sq.km, it is located at 31 00 N, 36 00 E.

Jordan’s History (Take a Journey through Jordan’s timeless history)
Jordan is a land steeped in history. It has been home to some of mankind's earliest settlements and villages, and relics of many of the worlds great civilizations can still be seen today.

As the crossroads of the Middle East, the lands of Jordan and Palestine have served as a strategic nexus connecting Asia, Africa and Europe. Thus, since the dawn of civilization, Jordan's geography has given it an important role to play as a conduit for trade and communications, connecting east and west, north and south. Jordan continues to play this role today.

Jordan’s Current Government
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional. The monarch is the head of state, the chief executive and the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The king exercises his executive authority through the Council of Ministers. The cabinet, meanwhile, is responsible before the elected House of Deputies which, along with the Senate, constitutes the legislative branch of the government. The judicial branch is a totally independent branch.

Information courtesy of www.kinghussein.gov.jo

Just the Facts

To ensure you get the most from your visit to Jordan, it is important to have a few basic facts on hand before you arrive. From currency to transport, from newspapers to business hours… you’ll find here the information you need.

1. ATTIRE
Jordan is primarily a Muslim country, although the freedom of all religions is protected. Muslim women’s clothing often covers their arms, legs and hair. Western women are not subject to these customs, but very revealing clothing is never appropriate and conservative dress is advisable for both men and women in the old part of Amman (Downtown), and outside the cities. Shorts are rarely worn by either sex, and would be out of place in the downtown Amman area. Topless sunbathing is prohibited and one-piece swimsuits are preferred, although two-piece swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools.

2. BUSINESS HOURS
Friday is the weekly holiday. Banks, government offices and most businesses are closed on Saturdays as well. Many businesses, including airline offices, travel agencies and some shops also close on Thursday afternoon, although department stores and supermarkets remain open. A few businesses and shops close for some of Sunday.
Banks - 08.30-15.00 (some reopen from 15.30-17.30)
Business Offices - 08.30-13.00 & 15.30-18.30
Government Offices - 08.00-15.00
Shops - Flexible but typically 09.30-13.30 & 15.30-18.00
Please note that earlier closings apply during the month of Ramadan.

3. ACCESIBILITY
Visitors with a valid passport may obtain a visa at any Jordanian embassy, consulate, or legation abroad. A visa can also be obtained at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport or at any other border crossing except King Hussein Bridge and the ferryboat from Egypt. Visas are valid for 2 weeks, but can be extended at any police station. No inoculations are required for entry into Jordan, although preventive shots for hepatitis, polio, tetanus and typhoid are recommended.

4. NEWSPAPERS
The main English-language daily is The Jordan Times. A weekly English-language paper, The Star, is published on Thursdays and has a French language supplement. Foreign newspapers are available at hotels and some shops.

5. CREDIT CARDS
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and larger shops, including American Express, Visa, Diners Club, and MasterCard. Please note that many smaller shops still prefer cash payment in the Jordanian currency, and it’s essential for shopping in the local souks.

6. WEATHER
Jordan boasts a Mediterranean climate ideal for year-round holidays and travel. Amman is sunny and cloudless from May to October, with average temperatures around 23C (73F). Spring time brings optimal weather, lush with greenery, while autumn is equally mild and pleasant. July and August are hot and dry but not oppressive. Aqaba and the Jordan Valley are ideal winter resorts, with temperatures averaging 16-22C (61-72F) between November and April. There is very little rain in the Aqaba area and in the desert. Visitors from Northern climates should always be aware of the inherent risks involved from extended exposure to the sun and are advised to take appropriate precautions.

8. LANGUAGE
The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely spoken – especially in the cities. Many Jordanians have travelled or have been educated abroad so French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken, but to a lesser extent.

When Arabic is written in Jordan using the Latin alphabet, English spelling is applied however these spellings can be interpreted in various ways, the spelling for example of street addresses can vary widely. For this reason, the sounds of the words are a much better guide than the spelling.

Speaking Arabic is easier than you might think and attempting a few basic words will gain you respect from the locals and is a good way to break the ice. The Jordanian people are extremely understanding and will help you whenever they are able. Here are a few useful words and phrases to get you started:

ENGLISH / ARABIC
Yes / Na'am
No / Laa
Please / Min fadlak (to a man) / Min fadlik (to a woman)
Thank you / Shukran
You're welcome / Afwan
Hello / Marhaba
Goodbye / Ma'asalameh
What is your name? / Shoo ismek?
Please / Lao samaht
Excuse me / 'An iznek
What time is it? / Edesh el sa'aa?
How much? / Addeysh?
I don't speak Arabic / Ana laa ahkee Arabee

Arabic numbers are easy to read - in fact; the western numerical system was originally derived from the Arabic system. Unlike the words, Arabic numerals are read from left to right (the same as western numerals). A good way to practice is by reading vehicle registration plates, which carry both sets of numbers.

9. ELECTRICAL CURRENT
220 AC volts, 50 cycles, requiring rounded two-prong wall plugs. Visitors from the US will need a transformer which most hotels can provide.

10. EDUCATION
Jordan is a leader among Arab countries in educational spending as a percentage of GDP. Jordan's eight public universities, 13 private universities, 21 community colleges, and 35 vocational training centres house more than 140,000 students from around the globe and the Arab world, with the numbers of foreign students growing at a rate of 9% per annum.

The Jordanian government and the private sector, working with international IT initiatives, are investing considerable resources in primary and secondary education programs, elevating the ICT know-how of Jordanian graduates. Jordan has a young population, 70 percent is under the age of 30 (about 3.8 million), and these programs are creating an impressive pool of bilingual, savvy ICT graduates.

11. SHOPPING
Wherever you go in Jordan you will find plenty of opportunities to shop. For visitors there is a wide range of locally made handicrafts and other goods available at all the popular sites as well as within the boutiques of the leading hotel and at the various visitor centres. There you will find hand-woven rugs and cushions, beautifully embroidered items and clothing, traditional pottery, glassware, silver jewellery embedded with semi-precious stones, Bedouin knives, coffee pots, narghiles (hubble bubble), marquetry work, antiques and other artifacts. The list is endless and about as varied as you can imagine.

Take time to visit the souks in Jordan’s larger towns and cities. These are treasure troves for those seeking something a little bit out of the ordinary. Within the souks are also excellent gold and silver outlets, where some great bargains can be found. Also worth visiting are the busy market shops, especially for exotic spices, herbs and seasonings.

Both Amman and Aqaba offer sophisticated shops and boutiques selling the very latest fashions in jewelry, clothing, accessories, leather and electronic goods.

Almost everywhere in Jordan you can find the world-famous Dead Sea spa products. All are of excellent quality and produced under strict clinical conditions. They are also very reasonably priced.

In all cases, the shopkeepers are helpful and friendly. Most speak at least a little English but even if they don’t, there is usually someone around who will be only too willing to assist you. After all, this is Jordan!

12. LOCAL TIME
October – March: Greenwich Mean Time plus 2 hours (G.M.T. + 2)
April – September: Greenwich Mean Time plus 3 hours (G.M.T. + 3)
Jordan is seven hours ahead of US Eastern Time

13. WATER
Water is a precious resource in Jordan and visitors are encouraged not to waste it. Hotels rated 3 stars and above have their own water filtering systems and their water is considered safe to drink. Elsewhere, bottled water is cheap and readily available.

14. MEDICAL CARE
Medical services are excellent in the larger cities and towns and most doctors are bilingual in Arabic and English. Larger hotels have a doctor on call and embassies can also suggest doctors and hospitals.

15. COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone services within Jordan are efficient and reliable. Directories in Arabic and English are widely available and international calls can be made from public and private phones. Fax services are available at most hotels while telegrams can be sent from post offices. Internet access is widespread via Internet cafes and hotels.

16. CURRENCY
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar, symbol JD, which is often called the “jaydee”. There are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 JD notes. The dinar is divided onto 100 piasters (pronounced “pee-aster”) of 1000 fils (“fills”). The fils is the unit most commonly used and you will usually see prices written as 4,750 (which is 4 JD and 750 fils).
Currency can be exchanged at major banks, exchange booths and at most hotels. Street money-changers are best avoided. Exchange rates are set daily by the Jordanian Central Bank.

17. POSTAL SERVICES
As well as post offices, most 4 and 5-star hotels offer postal services.
Post office opening hours are:
Summer: Sat-Thurs 0700-1900, Fri 0700-1300
Winter: Sat-Thurs 0700-1700, Fri 0700-1300
There are also a number of international courier services, including DHL, FedEx, TNT International, UPS, etc.

18. POPULATION
The population of Jordan has grown rapidly over the last fifty years or so to more than 5 million people. Around 80% of the population lives in urban areas, with approximately 2 million living in the capital, Amman.

19. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
Banks, businesses, government offices and many shops close all day for public holidays.
Fixed public holidays include:
New Year’s Day 1st January
King Abdullah II’s Birthday 30th January
Labour Day 1st May
The late King Hussein’s Birthday 14th November
Christmas Day 25th December

A number of public holidays are not fixed. These include Easter and the following Islamic Holidays, which are based on the Lunar calendar:

Eid al-Fitr - A 4 or 5-day holiday marking the end of Ramadan
Eid al-Adha - A feast at the end of the Hajj, or month of pilgrimage to Mecca
First of Muharam - Islamic New Year
Eid al-Isra’ wal Mi’raj - Celebrating the visit of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) to heaven
The Birthday of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH)

20. WEIGHTS & MEASURES
Jordan uses the metric system.

Values & Tradition

Jordan can be regarded as a typically Arab country as its people are very warm, friendly and hospitable. Jordanians are typically happy to forgive foreigners who innocently ‘break the rules’ of etiquette. However, visitors seen to be making an effort to observe local customs will undoubtedly win favor.

Joining local people for a cup of tea or coffee can be a wonderful way to learn more about local culture. If you are invited yet are unable to attend, then it is perfectly acceptable to decline. Place your right hand over your heart and politely make your excuses.

Many families, particularly in rural areas, are very traditional and, if you visit their house, you may well find it is divided between the men and women. Foreign women are often treated as honorary ‘men’.

Local women in Jordan enjoy considerable freedom when compared with many other countries in the region. Women are entitled to a full education, they can vote, they can drive cars, and they often play significant roles in business and politics. Arranged marriages and dowries are still common.

CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
Jordan is primarily a Muslim country, although the freedom of all religions is protected. Muslin women's clothing often covers their arms, legs and hair. Western women are not subject to these customs, but very revealing clothing is never appropriate, and conservative dress is advisable for both men and woman in downtown Amman and outside the cities.

Shorts are rarely worn by either sex, and would be out of place in the downtown area. Topless sunbathing is prohibited and one-piece swimsuits are preferred, although two-piece swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools. Public displays of affection are rare; however, it is not considered unusual for friends to hold hands, regardless of their gender.

RELIGION
Jordan is an ideal destination for those seeking cultural knowledge and spiritual enrichment. Jordan values its ethnically and religiously diverse population, consequently providing for the cultural rights of all its citizens. This spirit of tolerance and appreciation is one of the central elements contributing to the stable and peaceful cultural climate flourishing within Jordan. More than 92% of Jordanians are Sunni Muslims and approximately 6% are Christians. The majority of Christians belong to the Greek Orthodox Church, but there are also Greek Catholics, a small Roman Catholic community, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, and a few Protestant denominations. Several small Shi'a and Druze populations can also be found in Jordan.

As Jordan is predominantly an Islamic country, one may explore the principles of Islam through direct interaction with the people of this monotheistic religion. As the capstone of a long tradition beginning with Judaism and Christianity, Muslims believe that Islam completes the revelation of God's message to humankind. Islam – which in Arabic means "submission" – is an assertion of the unity, completeness, and sovereignty of God. Muslims believe that God, or Allah, as He is known in Arabic, revealed his final message to humankind through the Prophet Muhammad and the Holy Qur'an, which is the divine immutable word of God. Islam focuses heavily on the equality of all humans before the one true God, and therefore it is in many ways a return to the original doctrine of the pure monotheism that characterized the early Judeo-Christian tradition.

Islamic tradition has crystallized five fundamental observances, or "pillars," that are as important as faith in defining Islamic identity and strengthening the common bond that ties all Muslims together. They are Confession of Faith, Daily Prayer (five times per day facing the holy city of Mecca), Fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, Almsgiving, and Pilgrimage to Mecca.

ALCOHOL
Alcohol is widely available at bars and hotels across Jordan. During Ramadan, drinks are only available to visitors in their hotels. Alcohol can also be bought from supermarkets.

RAMADAN
Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, the date of which varies according to the Islamic lunar calendar. During Ramadan, alcohol is not sold, except to non-Muslims in larger hotels. Smoking, eating and drinking in public is prohibited during the hours of daylight. As a sign of respect, visitors are kindly requested to refrain from these activities in public during fasting hours. During Ramadan, many stores, banks and offices open late at 09:00 and close early at 14:00.

Tentative dates for Ramadan according to the Gregorian calendar:

Year / Date of Ramadan
2007 / September 13 - Ocbtober 11
2008 / September 1 - September 29
2009 / August 21 - September 19
2010 / August 11 - Septmeber 8
2011 / August 1 - August 29
2012 / July 21 - August 19

Entry into Jordan
Visa Requirements

Effective July 16, departure tax for Jordanians and non Jordanians departing the kingdom from any airport is JD 20.
Any tickets issued after this date are inclusive of departure tax.
Any tickets issued prior to this date are subject to departure tax to be paid upon departure from any airport.

The cost of one entry visa for all nationalities is JD 10 (around $14) for all nationalities and for multiple entries it is JD 20 (around $28).

Groups of five persons or more arriving through a designated Jordanian tour operator are exempted from all visa charges.

Departure taxes for non Jordanians are 5JD, around $7, from any border.

Certain nationalities require an entry visa to be obtained prior to travel. Please select from the drop-down list below to see which nationalities require visa clearance. The below list is meant solely as a useful tool and that data within it is subject to change without prior notice. It is recommended that you check with the Jordanian diplomatic mission in your country prior to travel to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork for travel.

Arrivals at Aqaba, either through the port, the airport or at the crossing from Israel or Saudi Arabia, are granted a free visa to Jordan. There is no obligation associated with this visa, provided that they leave the country within 1 month of arrival, and that they do not need to 'renew' their visa.

Those holding an ASEZ visa, and wishing to stay longer than 1 month must extend it at the ASEZA office in Aqaba and not with their local police station as holders of a normal visa would do

Visitors arriving to Jordan at any entry point other than Aqaba, are entitled to a free visa (i.e. arrival tax is exempt). However, they must report this to the authorities and must register with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) visa office in Aqaba within 48 hours of their arrival in Jordan. Those failing to register are liable to payment of the visa when they leave the Kingdom.

All visitors, without a specific exemption, must pay the exit tax whether holding an ASEZ visa or not, and whenever leaving the country.

Getting Around
Amman and other cities are relatively small, and most places of interest, hotels and restaurants are well known. Street addresses are rarely used (mail is delivered only to post office boxes located at neighborhood post office centres) and only the larger street names are well known. When giving directions, therefore, people will usually tell you the area or a nearby landmark (a large hotel, ministry building or supermarket, for example) and instructions from there. This works more efficiently than it sounds.

Amman itself is built on seven hills, or jabals, each of which more or less defines a neighborhood. Many jabals once had a traffic circle (roundabout) at their peak, and although most of the circles have now been replaced by traffic lights, the junctions are still known as 1st Circle, 2nd Circle... 8th Circle. Other Amman neighborhoods were once separate villages, now swallowed up by the expanding city.

One final word... if you're having trouble finding your way, don't hesitate to ask a passer-by, most people will be delighted to help, and in some cases, they'll even jump in your car and direct you to your destination!

GROUND TRANSPORTATION
Taxis are inexpensive and often the most convenient form of transportation in Jordan, even over substantial distances, such as the trip between Amman and Aqaba. The white-painted "service taxis" ride fixed routes and are shared. Private taxis are painted yellow; they can be taken from ranks outside larger hotels, or hailed in the street. Taxis have meters, but these are not always used at night, so it is advisable to agree the cost beforehand. The same applies on long journeys. Taxi drivers are friendly, know the city well, and usually speak English. It is considered appropriate for a woman to sit in the back of the taxi. Tipping is isn't compulsory, but it is customary to add about 200 fils to the price of the meter.

Buses
Several companies offer charter bus and regular tours in a fleet of modern, air-conditioned coaches. For schedules please ask your hotel concierge or visit the destinations page on this site, click here for the major attractions and destinations.

- Alpha Tours: 7th Circle, Amman. TEL: +962 6 5855196.
- JETT: 7th Circle, Amman. TEL: +962 6 5664146.
- Rum: Abdali, Amman. TEL: +962 6 4646300.
- Sahara: Al Madina Al Munawara St. TEL: +962 6 4711550.

Car Rental
Jordan has an excellent and expanding road network, and renting a car can be a good way to see the country. A driving license valid in your country of origin is acceptable, provided you have held it for at least one year. Driving is on the right. Road signs on the highways are in Arabic and English. Brown signs are designed for tourists. There are plenty of petrol stations in Amman and other cities, and on most highways (except the Dead Sea / Aqaba road), but it makes sense to fill up before embarking on any long journey. There are many car rental offices; the following is a selection. Many hotels have car rental offices on their premises.

BORDER CROSSING
Visitors with a valid passport may obtain a visa at any Jordanian embassy, consulate, or legation abroad. You can also obtain a visa upon arrival at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport or at any other border crossing (except the King Hussein Bridge and the ferryboat from Egypt).

Visa fees are 10 JD / $ 14 for single entry and 20 JD / $ 28 for multiple entries to be paid in local currency and are valid for two weeks but can be extended at any police station. Few formalities need to be observed when departing Jordan. A departure tax of 5 JD is paid at any border crossings except the airports.

Syria:
Coming to Jordan by road from Syria, you can cross into Jaber or Ramtha.
Jaber is 80 kms away from Amman and is most commonly used by visitors while Ramtha 90 kms away is mainly for cargo. Both borders are open 24/7 throughout the year.

Israel:
There are three border crossings between Jordan and Israel.

• The Allenby/King Hussein Bridge, 57 kms away from Amman, located in the southern Jordan Valley, is open Sun. – Thurs. 08:00hrs – 20:00hrs for arrivals and 8:00 to 14:00 for departures and Fri-Sat 08:00hrs–13:00hrs.

*PLEASE NOTE: Prior visas must be arranged and cannot be obtained at the border. Private cars and tour buses cannot cross – travelers must change vehicles upon crossing or use the other two border crossings.

• Sheikh Hussein crossing /North Border, 90 kms away from Amman, located in the north close to Lake Tiberias (Sea of Galilee), open 24/7 throughout the year.

• Wadi Araba Crossing/South Border, located in the south, 324 kms away from Amman, connecting the two Red Sea resorts of Eilat and Aqaba. These are open Sun – Thurs 06:30hrs – 22:00hrs and Fri – Sat 0800hrs – 20:00hrs. At these crossing, visas for most nationalities can be obtained at the border; prior permits are not needed except for restricted nationalities. Wadi Araba Crossing closes on Islamic New Year day and Yom Kippur.

*PLEASE NOTE: These hours and regulations are all subject to change. For up-to-date details and information on which nationalities cannot obtain visas, contact a travel agent in Jordan.

AIRPORTS IN JORDAN

Air Transport
Besides Royal Jordanian, more than 20 international air carriers fly into Queen Alia International Airport located 35 km south of Amman. The flying time from the major European cities is about four hours. The easiest way to get to downtown Amman from Airport is by taxi; the Journey takes 30-45 minutes, the fare is about 15JD which is equivalent to around $22. However, shuttle buses to the city centre bus station also available, leaving the Airport every half-hour.

Airports
Queen Alia International Airport
Conveniently located within 30 minutes of Amman’s downtown; Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) is considered to be the main airport in Jordan and is serviced by many global airline carriers.

Taxis are readily available outside the terminals. Shuttle buses also link QAIA with Amman’s Abdali city center terminal every half-hour between 06.00 and 23.00 and every hour between 23.00 - 06.00

King Hussein International Airport
As Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea region of Aqaba, King Hussein International Airport (KHIA) is approximately a 45 minute flight from either of Amman’s airports. Serviced by national and international carriers, KHIA is quickly growing to be a regional hub for both the holiday and business traveler alike.

PORTS

The Port of Aqaba is situated in southern Jordan on the north shore of the Gulf of Aqaba. It can accommodate ships handling a wide variety of cargos, including dry bulk vessels of 75,000 DWT, and container vessels of Panamax size. The port also has a separate passenger terminal, which services cruise and passenger ships. The Aqaba port has the capacity to handle up to 23ships of different sizes and types, in addition to 8 ships in anchorage.

The major shipping lines that use Aqaba Port are Maersk- Sealand, PIL, M,SC, Evergreen, P&O Nedloyd, HUAL, COSCO, UASC, SETH, NYK, APL, CMA, Gearbulk, Messina, Wan Hai Line and Wallinus. The shipping agents that deal with cruise liners include: Amin Kawar & Sons, AB Maritime & Gharghour.

Festival & Events

Please go to www.calendar.jo/ to get the most updated information on Festivals and special Events happening in Jordan.

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Voluntourism in Jordan

JORDAN VOLUNTOURISM CONCEPT:

What if you could...
- spend a day holding a baby, reading some books and playing with kids in an orphanage
- spend a day helping paint a classroom or a school where it is really needed
- spend time playing sports with children in wheel chairs
- have lunch with deaf and blind kids
- help build a house with “Habitat for Humanity”
- sit with an elderly and listen to their stories

Chances are that volunteering while on vacation is not part of your plans. But what if you could free-up some hours, an afternoon, or even a day to give back to a local community?

Voluntourism is a wonderful concept that can be implemented for either a short or long visit to a destination. It is all about giving your time to help others feel loved. Just think about the benefits for everyone involved just by giving the gift of time. Imagine how much you can help change our world one day at a time! The possibilities are unrelenting and endless, and the satisfaction of having a human being overwhelmed with joy is absolutely priceless.

Voluntourism in Jordan


Who to Contact

Jordan Tourism Board
www.visitjordan.com



Information and pictures provided by www.visitjordan.com

The Travel-Informed Team

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