Jordan

Jordanhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordanJordanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/alertsWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Jordan? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2020-11-10T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/alertshttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions in Jordan – updated 15 June 2020</h2> <p>Jordan has reopened Queen Alia International Airport as of 10 September to a limited number of commercial flights from a <a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/Country-Categories.html">list of countries that are deemed safe</a>. </p> <h2>Who can travel to Jordan?</h2> <p><span>All passengers traveling by land and air must provide evidence of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Jordan. </span><span>All passengers need to<span> </span></span><a rel="external" href="https://www.gateway2jordan.gov.jo/index.html">register on the ‘visit Jordan platform</a><span><span> </span>and follow instructions to either book a PCR test on arrival or claim a waiver by uploading evidence that they are fully vaccinated.<span> </span></span><br /><br />Travelers from low-risk countries in the "green" zone (<a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/Country-Categories.html">identified here</a>) must have only been in one of these countries for 14 consecutive days.</p> <p>Passengers traveling from a country with "red" or "orange" status (<a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/Country-Categories.html">listed here</a>) must transit through a green status country for at least 14 days before traveling onward to Jordan.</p> <p>Check the <a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/Country-Categories.html">Visit Jordan portal</a> for the latest information. Travelers from certain countries may be required to self-isolate or quarantine depending on the severity of COVID-19 risk where they are arriving from.</p> <h2>Requirements for travel to Jordan</h2> <ul> <li>All air passenger travelers must <a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/form/">fill in this travel declaration form</a> for approval to travel and pre-pay for a COVID-19 PCR test. The confirmation code received via email must be shown at the airport check-in counter for departure</li> <li><strong>Before departure</strong>, eligible travelers must get a PCR test for COVID-19 within a maximum of <strong>5 days (120 hours) prior</strong></li> <li><strong>Upon arrival in Jordan</strong>, everyone will be tested again at the airport</li> <li>Passengers arriving from green and yellow category countries are required to self-isolate for 7 days, even if their PCR test result is negative</li> <li>Arrivals from the red category countries are required to <a href="https://corona.moh.gov.jo/en/page/1045/HomeQuarantine">self-isolate</a> for 14 days, even if their PCR test result is negative</li> <li>Travelers must <a href="https://amanapp.jo/en">download the “Aman” App</a></li> <li>Non-Jordanian nationals must provide proof of valid travel insurance.</li> </ul> <p>To travel to Jordan via land borders, visitors must <a href="https://www.visitjordan.gov.jo/landplatform/" target="_blank">fill out this declaration form</a> prior to arriving at the border.</p> <p>Check your government's travel advice before booking a trip.</p> <h2>What to expect in Jordan</h2> <p>Movement restrictions to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been relaxed in a phased approach. However, there are a number of strict <a href="https://corona.moh.gov.jo/en/Together-to-Reopen">guidelines</a> still in place:</p> <ul> <li>From 2 November, a curfew will be in place from Thursday 10pm to Saturday 6am, until the end of the year</li> <li>A 10pm to 6am daily curfew is in place for other days of the week across Jordan</li> <li>People must wear a face mask and gloves while inside public spaces</li> <li>Public transport, restaurants and businesses are operating at a limited capacity to allow for social distancing.</li> </ul> <p>Measures may be reintroduced at short notice. <a href="https://corona.moh.gov.jo/en">Follow the advice of local authorities</a>. Penalties are severe for anyone breaking the rules.</p> <p><strong><a href="/help/insurance/recent-events/coronavirus-faqs" title="Coronavirus FAQs">Wondering how your travel insurance might be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak? Find answers to some of our common questions about COVID-19</a>.</strong></p> <h3>The World Nomads Podcast: Jordan</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/514985?theme=light" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay"></iframe> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/Peter Unger 1534853867 Getty Images Visitors at Petra

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-jordanSolo traveler turned tour guide, Cassandra Brooklyn, shares her tips on what you need to know before you go to this incredible Middle Eastern destination. 2020-09-17T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-jordanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>During a 10-day solo backpacking trip through <a href="/explore/middle-east/jordan/beyond-wadi-rum-sustainable-travel-in-jordan" target="_blank" title="Beyond Wadi Rum: Sustainable Travel in Jordan">Jordan</a> in 2015, I fell madly in love with the country. The landscape was extraordinarily diverse, the food was incredible, and the people were unbelievably kind – stopping me several times per day to ask if I needed help with translation, securing a taxi, or finding my way.</p> <p>I was astounded there weren’t more travelers and I wanted to change that. I now lead <a href="https://www.escapingny.com/home/jordantrip">group trips to Jordan</a> and believe it’s a great way to see the country, but I often travel alone and want other solo travelers to feel safe exploring Jordan.</p> <p>Here are nine of my top tips to help you stay safe in <a href="/explore/middle-east/jordan/preparing-for-jordan-6-tips-for-the-first-time-traveller" target="_blank" title="6 Tips for First-time Travelers to Jordan">Jordan</a>.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#safe"> Is Jordan safe? </a></li> <li><a href="#crime-and-theft"> Theft and crime </a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq"> Safety for LGBTQ+ travelers </a></li> <li><a href="#scams"> Travel scams in Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#transport"> Safe transport in Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#tap-water"> Can you drink tap water in Jordan? </a></li> <li><a href="#food"> Food hygiene in Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#nightlife"> Nightlife safety in Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#terrorism"> Civil unrest and terrorism </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safe">1. Jordan is a safe country</h2> <p>While the media often depicts tension across the entire Middle East, know that Jordan is a very safe country. According to a <a href="http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_TTCR_2017_web_0401.pdf">World Economic Forum Report</a>, it’s even safer than Germany or Great Britain. Stealing from or harming tourists is strongly frowned upon by locals and harsh punishments exist for offenders. As a result, travelers can explore the country confidently.</p> <p>You may observe a strong security presence and metal detectors at hotels and public buildings, tourist police at major sites, and military checkpoints around border zones. This security presence is not in response to crime, it’s in place in order to prevent it.</p> <h2 id="crime-and-theft">2. What's the likelihood that a traveler will be a victim of crime or theft in Jordan?</h2> <p>Though Jordan is a very safe country, petty theft, and crime do exist. Exercise the same safety precautions you would at home and be especially careful with your passport.</p> <ul> <li>Keep your wallet/purse close</li> <li>Carry only as much cash as you need</li> <li>If you’re heading home late, take a taxi instead of walking</li> <li>Carry the business card of where you’re staying so a taxi can bring you right to the door.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/jordan/amman-city-center-from-above-in-jordan-gettyimages-629014286.jpg" alt="Brown buildings with two quiet streets, AmmanT" /> <figcaption>Quiet streets of Amman's city center at dawn. Photo credit: Getty Images/Jakob Polacsek</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lgbtq">3. Is Jordan safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Jordan is one of the most, if not <em>the </em>most progressive countries in the Middle East. People in large cities and well-traveled places like Amman, <a href="/explore/middle-east/jordan/which-trek-to-petra-is-right-for-you" target="_blank" title="Petra Trekking: A Guide for Travelers">Petra</a>, and Wadi Rum are used to seeing and meeting people from different cultures. LGBTQ+ travelers do not typically have any issues in Jordan but may draw some stares, particularly in small villages if they are affectionate in public.</p> <p>Catcalling can happen occasionally (as it does in many Western countries), but Jordanian people are extremely peaceful, so even if they do not agree with someone’s sexual orientation, they are unlikely to interfere.</p> <h2 id="scams">4. Travel scams in Jordan</h2> <p>In general, travelers are respected and treated fairly in Jordan, but some scams do occur.</p> <ul> <li>A common scam in Petra and <a href="/explore/middle-east/jordan/a-guide-to-exploring-wadi-rum-in-depth" target="_blank" title="A Nomad's Guide to Wadi Rum">Wadi Rum</a> is for Bedouin men to woo single women (sometimes to a cave), only to request money later, sometimes long after she’s returned home</li> <li>So-called antiques may turn out to be last year’s leftovers with a thick coating of dust</li> <li>Cheap imports are sometimes sold as locally-made crafts</li> <li>Taxi meters occasionally quote fares in fils, not dinars, and unsuspecting visitors may overpay.</li> </ul> <h2 id="transport">5. What is the safest way to get around in Jordan?</h2> <p>An organized bus transportation system is in place between most major sites and attractions. Visitors are recommended to catch licensed taxis at major hotels and agree to a fare before getting in or ask the driver to use the “O meter”.</p> <p>In the event that a driver attempts to pick up other passengers, object! It’s normal in Jordan, but it can make a traveler feel uneasy.</p> <p>Travelers are welcome to join locals in minibusses and shared taxis, and are often looked after by their fellow passengers. Know that drivers and passengers may only speak Arabic and there won’t be infrastructure or signage in place to alert riders when they’ve arrived at their stop.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/jordan/woman-in-wadi-rum-jordan-gettyimages-1057507032.jpg" alt="A woman sits on a rock in a deserted landscape in Jordan" /> <figcaption>A woman admiring the sand dunes and sandstone formations in the desert, Wadi Rum,. Photo credit: Getty Images/Iñigo Fdz de Pinedo</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="tap-water">6. Is the tap water safe to drink?</h2> <p>Although some locals drink tap water, it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water, instead drinking purified, boiled water or bring a water filtering bottle. It is completely safe to shower and brush your teeth using tap water.</p> <h2 id="food">7. Food hygiene in Jordan</h2> <p>Middle Eastern food is world famous for good reason. Many of the most popular dishes are plant-based – falafel, hummus, baba ganouj – and tend to fare better sitting at room temperature for extended periods.</p> <p>Street food enthusiasts should avoid ordering meat that looks like it’s been out for a while. Fruits and vegetables are safe to eat, but remember to wash all produce bought in open-air markets before eating.</p> <h2 id="nightlife">8. Nightlife safety in Jordan</h2> <p>As a majority Muslim country, alcohol is not as commonplace as it is elsewhere, but drinking is not a taboo. Foreigners are welcome to drink alcohol but should exercise the same caution they would in other countries. Avoid getting drunk and take a cab home if you’ve had too much. The capital city Amman’s traffic is heavy and chaotic and can be unsafe for pedestrians under the influence.</p> <h2 id="terrorism">9. Civil unrest and terrorism in Jordan</h2> <p>The likelihood of civil unrest and terrorism in Jordan is extremely slim. If you’re still concerned about the possibility of terrorism while visiting, <a href="/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/crime-and-terrorism-jordan">learn more here</a>.</p> <p><strong><a href="/travel-insurance/" title="World Nomads Travel Insurance">Traveling to Jordan soon? Get a travel insurance quote. </a></strong></p>Getty Images/Mint Images 1904630664 Getty Images Bedouin leading three camels through the desert in Jordan, with rocks and mountains in the distance

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/womens-travel-in-jordanCassandra Brooklyn shares her tips and tactics for women traveling in Jordan, so you can avoid trouble and explore this Middle Eastern country with confidence.2019-11-04T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/womens-travel-in-jordanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>My first trip to Jordan was a 10-day solo backpacking trip in 2015. I quickly learned that Jordanians have hospitality hardwired into their DNA and running through their blood.</p> <p>Every day, people would stop to ask if I needed any help. Young women asked if I needed help hailing a taxi. Men who spoke no English (I spoke no Arabic) helped me find the right minibusses and made sure I wasn’t overcharged. Everyone gestured energetically to indicate where I should get off and how I could arrive at my final destination. </p> <p>Jordan is one of the safest places for women to travel around in the Arab world, and is an excellent introduction for first-time visitors to the Middle East. </p> <p>I now lead <a href="https://www.escapingny.com/jordan" target="_blank">group trips to Jordan</a><span>,</span> and while I believe group tours are a great way to see the country – and many women feel safer traveling in groups – solo female travelers should also feel safe exploring alone.</p> <p>Here are my tips on how to enjoy a safe, fulfilling trip to one of the most beautiful countries in the world.</p> <ul> <ul> <li><a href="#womens-rights"> Women’s rights in Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#etiquette"> Etiquette tips </a></li> <li><a href="#solo"> Is Jordan safe for women traveling alone? </a></li> <li><a href="#transport"> Safest ways to get around Jordan </a></li> <li><a href="#periods"> Traveling when you have your period </a></li> <li><a href="#trouble"> What to do if you get into trouble </a></li> <li><a href="#accommodation"> Safe accommodation tips </a></li> <li><a href="#tips"> Tips for solo travel in Jordan </a></li> </ul> </ul> <h2 id="womens-rights">Jordan leads the Middle East in women’s rights</h2> <p>Jordanian women are highly educated, are free to travel without a male companion, and don’t have to cover their hair in public (any woman that does so, does it by choice). Women here enjoy much more freedom than women in neighboring Middle Eastern countries.</p> <p>The Jordan Tourism Board is actively promoting sustainable social enterprises as part of a <span><a href="https://www.myjordanjourney.com/experience-meaningful-travel" target="_blank" title="Meaningful Travel Map to Jordan">Meaningful Travel Map to Jordan</a></span>, including several that create <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/empowering-women-through-travel">employment opportunities for women</a> in the tourism workforce, a typically male-dominated industry. Not only do these enterprises create financial freedom for women, but some also offer professional training and pathways to promotion.</p> <h2 id="etiquette">Etiquette tips for women traveling in Jordan</h2> <p>As a majority-Muslim country, Jordan is conservative and maintains some religious and cultural traditions that women travelers should be aware of. </p> <ul> <ul> <ul> <li>Out of respect for local customs and to ward off unwanted attention, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, short skirts/shorts, and shirts with a low neckline</li> <li>A more relaxed dress code is acceptable in popular areas such as Petra, the Dead Sea, Aqaba, and Wadi Rum</li> <li>Conservative clothing may be required to enter family homes or religious sites</li> <li>Conservative men, particularly those in villages that don’t receive many tourists, may be uncomfortable shaking a woman’s hand. If a man extends his hand to shake yours, he’s indicating that he is okay with the practice – but if a man doesn’t offer, it’s best to not initiate.</li> </ul> </ul> </ul> <h2 id="solo">Is Jordan safe for women traveling alone?</h2> <p><a href="/travel-wiser/practical/12-reasons-to-travel-solo">Solo female travelers</a> should feel safe visiting the Dead Sea or Aqaba alone, but to avoid unwanted attention from men, stick to resorts instead of public beaches.</p> <p>In Petra, Jerash and Wadi Rum, avoid venturing off alone to remote areas as off-beat paths may not be well marked. Avoid dark alleys and unlit streets and take additional safety precautions when going out late. </p> <p>Bedouin men in Petra and Wadi Rum are known to befriend single women by inviting them to go on a hike or go stargazing. These “pirate Casanovas” can be identified by their long hair, head scarves, and thick eyeliner that resemble that of Captain Jack Sparrow of <em>Pirates of the Caribbean</em>.</p> <p>These Bedouin romance scammers may be physically harmless, but the tales they tell to seduce women tend to be fabricated and they typically continue requesting money long after the women return home.</p> <h2 id="transport">Safe transportation tips for women</h2> <p>When traveling by bus, try to sit next to another woman. If traveling by taxi, personal car, or minibus, it is respectful for women to sit in the back, rather than next to the driver – though several drivers invited me to join them in the front seat.</p> <p>During my first visit to Wadi Rum, I was offended when I was asked to give up my seat to a man and move to the back of the minibus. I assumed that I was deemed less important than the man, but local women assured me this custom is in place to ensure that unaccompanied visitors do not sit next to members of the opposite sex.</p> <p>In the capital city of Amman, using Uber or <a href="https://www.careem.com/" target="_blank" title="Careem">Careem</a> makes getting a ride easier than trying to haggle with a cab driver. If you do take a cab, only use licensed taxis hailed from major hotels and agree on the fare before getting in. If it makes you feel uncomfortable, object if the driver attempts to pick up another passenger. This practice is normal in Jordan.</p> <h2 id="periods">Traveling when you have your period</h2> <p>Feminine hygiene products (tampons, in particular) can be very difficult to find in the desert and in small villages in rural areas. <a href="/travel-wiser/wellness/how-to-cope-with-menstruation-while-traveling">If your period is due during your trip</a>, pack sanitary products. Or consider using a reusable menstrual cup such as a <a href="https://divacup.com/" target="_blank" title="Diva Cup">Diva Cup</a>.</p> <h2 id="trouble">What to do if you get into trouble</h2> <p>If you need help, head to the closest police station or tourist police booth. The latter can be found at most tourist sites. In the event of a serious emergency, call 911.</p> <p>Do not feel embarrassed about reporting inappropriate behavior. Harassment and assault is never your fault. It is very rare in Jordan, but if it happens, report it.</p> <h2 id="accommodation">Safe accommodation tips</h2> <p>Amman is one of the safest capitals in the region, but female travelers should stick to accommodation in Al Balad (downtown district), Jabal Hussein, Jabal al-Weibdeh, Jabal Amman, and Rainbow Street.</p> <p>When visiting Petra and Wadi Rum, book a hotel, guesthouse, or official desert camp that has a proper website with positive references. Though some local Bedouins will offer accommodation in traditional caves, this practice is not allowed and can prove dangerous for women.</p> <h2 id="tips">A few final safety tips for solo travel in Jordan</h2> <ul> <ul> <li>Walk with confidence</li> <li>Keep your bag/purse close</li> <li>Carry as little cash as possible</li> <li>Don’t wear flashy jewelry</li> <li>Keep cameras and phones safely stored</li> <li>Keep small change for taxis and tips easily accessible to avoid pulling out your main stash</li> <li>Download a navigational app like <a href="https://maps.me/" target="_blank" title="Maps.Me">Maps.Me</a> that can be used offline</li> <li>Take a taxi home at night instead of walking (especially if you’ve been drinking)</li> <li>Always carry the business card of your hotel so the taxi can take you to your door.</li> </ul> </ul>Getty Images/Oleh_Slobodeniuk 11126741406 Getty Images Woman sitting and looking at view of desert in Petra

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/unusual-lawsSome of Jordan’s local laws and customs may seem unusual to visitors but it’s important to follow them.2022-02-16T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/unusual-lawshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Jordan may be one of the most progressive countries in the Middle East but as much of Jordanian law is rooted in its Arab-heritage Muslim tradition, some of the rules and customs may be unfamiliar to visitors. For a safe and smooth trip read up on <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-jordan">these Jordan travel tips</a></span> and familiarize yourself with local laws and customs.</p> <h2>Religion and faith in Jordan</h2> <p>It may come as no surprise that around 92% of Jordanians are Muslim (93% of them being Sunni Muslim). Consider that while Jordan may be home to one of the oldest Christian communities in the world (about 6% of the population is Christian), technically, it's illegal to encourage conversion to the Christian faith and certain sects of Christianity, such as Jehovah's Witnesses, are not even officially recognized as religions.</p> <p>Also, if you happened to have read somewhere online that attempting to convert a Muslim is illegal in Jordan, well, that’s not really true. The Jordanian constitution and law do not explicitly ban Muslims from converting to another religion, and there are no penalties under civil law for doing so but Muslims who do convert to another religion face societal and governmental discrimination. It’s 100% okay to have conversations with Jordanians about various religions – talk about your own religion, ask questions about theirs, share, learn, and be merry – just don’t get too carried away.</p> <h2>Drugs, alcohol, and controlled substances</h2> <p>Contrary to popular belief, both visitors and locals are allowed to drink alcohol in some Middle Eastern countries and Jordan is one of them. While alcohol is, technically, considered a controlled substance in Jordan, fines for public intoxication or drinking outside a bar are far less serious than those for the possession, use, or trafficking of harder drugs.</p> <p>If you attempt to bring marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or any other drug into the country and they’re discovered, the authorities could be very heavy-handed. Even if marijuana is legal in your home state or country and even if you have a doctor-issued medical marijuana prescription, know that it won’t be valid in Jordan so leave the recreational substances at home.</p> <h2>Driving in Jordan</h2> <p>It’s quite possible to get around the country by bus, ride share, private taxi, and shared taxi, but if you do plan on renting a car, keep in mind that, in Jordan, the driver is always considered guilty in an accident. A driver who is deemed guilty may have to cough up heavy compensation payments to other drivers and to pedestrians involved. Technically, the driver could also be imprisoned, but this rarely happens.</p> <p>According to Ayman Abd Alkareem, the General Manager of the adventure travel company, <span><a href="https://www.experiencejordan.com/">Experience Jordan</a></span>, Jordanians often say “the driver is always guilty” simply because it’s not easy to prove a pedestrian was at fault while crossing the road. According to Abd Alkareem, drivers are often found not-guilty in Jordan and he believes the phrase became popularized as a way to urge all drivers to drive carefully. Just like in other countries, when it comes to accidents between cars, the outcome can never be perfectly predicted and often depends on how insurance companies handle it.</p> <h2 id="“sexuality"">Sexuality and LGBTQ+ travelers</h2> <p>Like most Muslim countries, homosexuality, the possession of pornographic material (even in the privacy of one’s home), and the consumption of alcohol outside of approved venues is not exactly celebrated in Jordan. And while the Middle East is definitely not leading the way in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, it’s also probably not as conservative as many people assume.</p> <p>Homosexuality is legal in Jordan and the country even has a small LGBTQ+ movement, but public displays of affection (even between heterosexual couples) is frowned upon. <br /><br />Jordanians living in large cities like Amman and Aqaba and in well-traveled places, such as <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/middle-east/jordan/which-trek-to-petra-is-right-for-you">Petra</a></span> and Wadi Rum, are accustomed to seeing and meeting people from all different cultures and backgrounds. LGBTQ+ travelers do not typically have any issues in Jordan but they may draw some stares if they are affectionate in public. This is especially the case in rural areas and smaller villages.</p> <h2>Death sentence</h2> <p>Like many countries, including Singapore and the United States, Jordan also imposes the death penalty in the case of extremely serious offenses. Given that most travelers do not visit Jordan planning to commit treason or terrorism, this very likely will never apply to you but given that many Middle Eastern countries are often wrongly categorized as “extreme,” we wanted to break this down a bit. You will not risk death for wearing shorts, reading Western newspapers, or drinking alcohol in Jordan. That said, when there has been <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-advice-civil-unrest">civil unrest</a> in the region, the Jordanian government, like most governments, may be more anxious about foreigners speaking out against the status quo.</p> <h2 id="“sensitive-photos"">Sensitive photos</h2> <p>Taking pictures of government and military buildings in Jordan is forbidden, as it is in many places around the world. Are you sensing a theme here? The Middle East often gets a bad rap when it comes to security and customs but when you think about it, many of their rules also exist all over the world, including in English-speaking countries. If you do try to take a picture of a government building, you could get a stern warning, a fine, or a short imprisonment, depending on the mood of the guards.</p> <p>Also, though it is technically not illegal, it's considered extremely rude (almost to the point of public indecency) to take a picture of someone without their consent. This is especially true of Bedouin women, who typically never consent to having their photo taken. Under absolutely no circumstances should you ever take a picture of a Bedouin woman without her permission but you may be given permission to photograph the woman’s hands. Come to think of it, it’s rude to take someone’s picture without asking anywhere in the world. If this is news to you, consider reviewing <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/how-to-take-photos-responsibly">responsible photography tips</a></span> before your trip.</p> <h2>Luggage searches</h2> <p>When you’re at the airport leaving Jordan, your luggage may undergo more security checks than you’re accustomed to. Not only are security officers typically looking for illegal drugs, but they are also looking to stop thoughtless visitors attempting to escape the country with precious antiquities.</p> <h2 id="“customs-and-manners"">Customs and manners in Jordan</h2> <p>For the most part, people are understanding and they won’t expect you to understand all the finer points of Jordanian customs and manners, though it will always be much appreciated if you attempt to learn. At a bare minimum, it is essential to respect how people live and worship even if it differs from your own experience, lifestyle, or personal beliefs. </p> <p>If you <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/respectful-travel">visit places of religious significance</a>, always display the utmost level of respect for whatever rules and customs are in place, regardless of your own political beliefs or religious philosophy. Dress modestly, behave courteously, and follow the lead of locals. The same goes if you <a href="/explore/worldwide/traveling-muslim-countries-ramadan">visit during the holy month of Ramadan</a>. Even if you do not observe fasting, you may be asked to not eat in front of those who <em>are</em> fasting. Do not be annoyed, do not try to talk your way out of it, and do not try to sneak food when nobody is looking. You are a guest and respecting the host is good manners in any country.</p>iStock/nailzchap 0175201786 iStock Roman temple of Hercules in the Amman Citadel in Jordan

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/crime-and-terrorism-jordanJordan is one of the safer countries in the Middle East when it comes to terrorism and crime, but don't get too complacent.2020-09-17T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/crime-and-terrorism-jordanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><em><strong><a href="/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/alerts">Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Jordan: Read the latest travel alerts to find out how COVID-19 restrictions may affect you.</a></strong></em></p> <p>Jammed between some of the most volatile countries in the world – Iraq and Syria, just to name a few – you'd be forgiven for <a href="/travel-safety/middle-east/jordan/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-jordan" target="_blank" title="9 Travel Safety Tips for Jordan">being a little nervous before a trip to Jordan</a>.</p> <p>To put your nerves to rest, despite everything that's going on around the country, Jordan's leaders have been working hard to make the desert kingdom into a modernized nation in global society. The first step to doing this, is ensuring travelers feel safe.</p> <ul data-smoothscroll=""> <li><a href="#is-terrorism-a-concern-for-visitors">Is terrorism a concern for visitors?</a></li> <li><a href="#civil-unrest">How to avoid civil unrest in Jordan</a></li> <li><a href="#crime-and-visitors-to-jordan">Crime in Jordan</a></li> <li><a href="#podcast"> Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Jordan </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="is-terrorism-a-concern-for-visitors">Is terrorism a concern for visitors?</h2> <p>There have been a few rare incidents that have threatened to destroy Jordan's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.</p> <ul> <li>In December 2016, shootings in and around the Karak Castle took place. The "crusader" fort is popular with tourists. One Canadian tourist and two Jordanian locals were killed in the incident. 34 others including foreign nationals were injured. It should be noted that 11 Jordanians, members of the army or gendarmerie sent to tackle the terrorists, were killed, as were the 5 attackers. Jordan is a major partner in the US-led coalition fighting ISIS. In December 2014, a Jordanian pilot was captured by ISIS and executed in a grisly way. Jordan retaliated by sentencing two ISIS prisoners to be hanged. The Karak incident occured a year later and should be viewed in that perspective.</li> <li>The second security incident occured in July 2017. Jordanian authorities closed the road to Petra and Wadi Rum after one of the largest tribes in southern Jordan, protested the sentencing of a Jordanian soldier to life in prison for the killing of three US soldiers at a military base. Tourism operators and local bedouins in the Wadi Rum area argues the forced closure was an over-reaction. There were no attacks and no-one was attacked, but the closure hurt the reputation for safety built up over many years.</li> </ul> <p>Be aware though that ISIS continues to call for followers to launch attacks on westerners in Jordan, and especially at Petra. While the large police and military presence throughout the country has been successful at stopping terrorist actions in the country since the 2005 suicide bombing of hotels in Amman, there is no guarantee of perfect safety. However, you should not be paranoid.</p> <h2 id="civil-unrest">How to avoid civil unrest in Jordan</h2> <p>If you're still concerned about the possibility for terrorism while on vacation in Jordan, keep these facts in mind:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-advice-civil-unrest" target="_blank" title="Avoid Civil Unrest">Stay away from political and religious demonstrations</a>, as they could turn violent, or you could be seen and noticed by terrorist groups as a Western sympathizer</li> <li>Be aware of when and where the potential for violent acts are at its highest: on days leading up to religious holidays, on Fridays, near the downtown areas of Amman or tourist hotels, near main city mosques and after midday prayers</li> <li>The borders with Syria and Iraq are too dangerous for tourists to visit.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Travel-Safety/Jordan/Jordan_iStock-458321221.jpg" /> <figcaption>A stallholder in one of Amman's popular markets. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="crime-and-visitors-to-jordan">Crime in Jordan</h2> <p>As a happy result of the increased police and military presence to combat terrorism, crime rates throughout Jordan are quite low compared even to many cities in Europe and the United States.</p> <p>Generally, the only things you will have to worry about are bag and purse snatching, pickpocketing, and, occaisionally, sexual harassment or assault (don't ever ride in the front seat of a taxi – several female travelers have reported incidents of harrassment).</p> <p>Cities everywhere attract a criminal element, and in the tourist-heavy parts of Amman, the threat of having your pocket picked or bag stolen is as high as it would be anywhere else. Be sure to keep important documents, cards, and cash away from prying fingers.</p> <p>The shopping precinct of Amman and especially the up-market Taj Mall attract petty theives. In those places, be particularly careful when using ATMs – some people have been robbed after withdrawing cash, or had their PINs stolen by "shoulder surfers".</p> <p>Always watch your bags; leave them unattended for even a moment and they'll miraculously grow legs and disappear. Always carry bags on the side away from the kerb, thieves ride by on mopeds or motorcycles, snatch your purse, and take off through busy traffic.</p> <h3 id="podcast">Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: Jordan</h3> <iframe width="100%" height="190" src="https://webplayer.whooshkaa.com/episode/514985?theme=light" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe>iStock/RobertHoetink 0465521266 iStock A guard in ancient costume in front of one of the royal tombs in Petra in Jordan