Staying Safe in Amman, Jordan

As tourism to Jordan grows, there is an ever-growing increase in the number of tourists to Jordan and Amman. The following is designed for the non-Jordanian, who is visiting Amman for the first time.

Without a doubt, Amman is one of the most exciting and modern Arab cities in the Middle East, with a backdrop of some of the most spectacular scenery on earth including the breath-taking ‘rose city’ of Petra to the vast Wadi Rum desert.

But, as with traveling to any country that is different to Europe, it is always a good idea to get acquainted with local customs as well as considering a country’s religious beliefs. There are currently no travel restrictions to visiting Amman but, even so, it is important to ensure your safety by taking some common sense precautions.

Local laws reflect the fact that Jordan is an Islamic country therefore it is important that you respect these at all times. Local traditions, customs, laws and religions are important to consider as you travel. This is even more important during celebrations and holidays, such as the holy month of Ramadan.

If you are a woman traveling alone, or even with other female friends, is the experience of a lifetime but be aware that female travelers are often prone to occasional harassment and occasionally targets for criminals. It is worth giving some thought to your wardrobe. Don’t wear anything flashy or expensive that draws attention to you. Dressing in a local style of clothing whether it’s a headscarf or top that provides good coverage and wearing a wedding ring, may help avoid any unwanted male attention.

It helps to have a good guidebook with you and perhaps a few ideas of what you want to do when you arrive. Being a cosmopolitan and modern city means that there are an excellent choice of hotels in Amman, as well as hostels and apartments. Be sure to stay somewhere that is on or close to a main street and not too far off the beaten track. Ask the hotel or hostel where you are staying for recommendations on things to do and see as they will have a lot of useful and indispensable local knowledge.

The same goes for restaurants; where is good to eat, if a place doesn’t allow women by themselves and what the local customs are when it comes to eating and drinking. Being an Islamic country, there will be strict laws on the consumption of alcohol that should followed [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]. It is also prudent to try and learn a few words of the local language. Not an easy one for Amman, admittedly, but the locals will appreciate even a hello, goodbye and a thank you in their local language. It shows politeness and an interest in their country that can only help with making new friends.