A well-travelled 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, gaze in awe at the haunting wilderness of Wadi Rum, or bathe in the restful waters of the Red Sea.
Travel with ease with Jordan’s Zenith and get the best Jordan travel advice.
Jordan is also famed for its friendly inhabitants, for which the welcoming of visitors is a matter of national pride. Chances are, it will not take long until you are welcomed into the homes of complete strangers. Ask someone for directions, and they will probably drive you to your destination.
Tourism accounts for almost 15% of the GDP of Jordan, making it our most important resource, one which a very large portion of the population depends upon directly or indirectly.
These are some resources we are putting at your disposal in order for you to find out more about Jordan prior to your visit. Our tour consultants will also be at your service should you have any questions about our destination.
His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein assumed his constitutional powers as King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on February 7th, 1999, the day his father, the late King Hussein, passed away.
Since his ascension to the throne, His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein is committed to building on the late King’s legacy to further institutionalize democratic and political pluralism in Jordan.
He has made extensive efforts towards ensuring sustainable levels of economic growth and social development; aimed at improving the standard of living of all Jordanians.
His Majesty has devoted himself to serving Jordan and its people, and working towards peace and prosperity in the region.
Hussein was proclaimed King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on August 11, 1952. A Regency Council was appointed until King Hussein’s formal accession to the throne on May 2, 1953, when he assumed his constitutional powers after reaching the age of eighteen, according to the Islamic calendar.
Throughout his long and eventful reign, King Hussein worked hard at building his country and raising the living standard of every Jordanian. Early on, King Hussein concentrated on building an economic and industrial infrastructure that would complement and enhance the advances he wanted to achieve in the quality of life of his people. During the 1960s, Jordan’s main industries – including phosphate, potash, and cement – were developed, and a network of highways was built throughout the kingdom.
His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein married Queen Rania on June 10th, 1993. The Royal Couple has two sons – Prince Hussein, born on June 28th, 1994, and Prince Hashem, born on January 30th 2005 – and two daughters – Princess Iman, born on September 27th, 1996, and Princess Salma, born on September 26th, 2000. The King has four brothers and seven sisters.
Traveling to Jordan can be an enriching experience, offering a blend of historical sites, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Below is a comprehensive guide that covers essential aspects of traveling in Jordan.
The ideal time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are moderate and pleasant for outdoor activities. The summer months can be extremely hot, particularly in desert areas like Wadi Rum and Petra.
Jordan has a well-connected transportation system:
Air Travel: Queen Alia International Airport in Amman serves as the main gateway.
Public Transport: Buses and minibusses are available between major cities; however, they may not always adhere to strict schedules.
Car Rentals: Renting a car provides flexibility but be aware of local driving customs and road conditions.
Taxis: Yellow taxis are widely available; ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. or you can use taxi’s applications; Uber, Careem, Taxi F…..
Jordan boasts numerous attractions worth visiting:
Petra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system.
Wadi Rum: Famous for its stunning desert landscapes and opportunities for hiking and camping.
Dead Sea: Renowned for its unique buoyancy due to high salt content; it’s also a popular wellness destination.
Jerash: One of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy.
Amman: The capital city offers historical sites such as the Citadel and Roman Theater alongside modern amenities.
Arabic is the official language of Jordan; however, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger generations. Learning basic Arabic phrases can enhance your travel experience.
The official currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are available in cities but may have withdrawal limits.
Before traveling to Jordan, it’s important to check the visa requirements based on your nationality. Many travelers can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport or border crossings. However, some nationalities may need to apply for a visa in advance. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Jordan.
Understanding local customs is essential:
. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people.
. Be respectful during Ramadan if visiting during this holy month; refrain from eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Eating is one of the most popular national pastimes. Traditional Jordanian cuisine leans heavily on fresh produce (we grow a lot, and availability is seasonal), chicken and lamb, yoghurt and rice. Most dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients. In Amman you’ll also find international restaurants of every stripe. Now in Petra you can even learn to cook your own Levantine goodies at the Petra Kitchen. And you can buy beer, wine and spirits except during Ramadan, the holy month of Islam when alcoholic beverages are not widely available. Jordan wineries produce some outstanding table wines, mostly around Madaba and Ajlun but sold throughout the country. You should also try arak, the local anise-flavored fire water.
Travelers should consider vaccinations recommended by health authorities before their trip. It’s advisable to drink bottled water rather than tap water in most regions due to potential contamination issues.
Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers:
Police, Ambulance, Fire: 911
Other numbers:
Complains concerning hotels’ services: 06 4642311
Tourist offices in
Aqaba: 03 2013633
Petra: 03 2157020
Jerash: 04 451272
Madaba: 05 543376