Is Jordan Safe To Travel as a Woman? Yup.

Explorer Chick

March 10, 2022

Safety is one of the top concerns for women travelers regardless of their destination, and for a good reason. Travel can be a pretty vulnerable experience – going to a foreign nation where you don’t speak the language, know the cultural customs, or understand the political landscape. Whether you’re with the girls or on a solo trip, your safety is no joke.

Don’t worry, ladies. We’ve got you covered. We’ll guide you through exactly what you need to know so you can feel safe exploring Jordan, including safety precautions to take, COVID-related travel advisories, and other smart travel tips. So read this, send it to your travel girl group chat, then start planning away!

Jordan Safety FAQs

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How Safe Is Jordan?

So, is Jordan safe to visit? Well, if you were planning on jetting off to eat croissants by the Eiffel Tower, sunbathe on Greek islands, or take a stroll through your American neighborhood, you should have no issues traveling to Jordan. This Arabian nation’s security rating outranks all of those Western destinations.

The truth is: Jordan is a very safe country and is often considered the most progressive country in the Middle East. Yup, take that sigh of relief. Your trip is a go. Still, like any other location, you don’t want to let your guard down.

Is Jordan Safe for Female Travelers?

Jordanians are known to be highly respectful towards women. However, as with anywhere, sexual assault, unfortunately, remains a possibility. Consider dressing more modestly to respect etiquette, blend in with local people, and ward off unwanted attention.

Women: we know you’re tired of hearing this (and we’re tired of it too), but never visit remote areas alone. Take the same safety precautions you would at home that you know all too well.

This gem in the Middle East is also generally safe for LGBTQ+ folks, though PDA may bring a few more stares in smaller villages.

What Are Tourist Police?

You’ll find a high security presence at all major tourist spots in Jordan. These officers are easily identifiable by the English text on their armbands and can assist you with any matter, from requests to complaints. While the police presence may be intimidating or even harmful, they’re there to ensure a safe Jordan.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Visiting Jordan?

Here’s one decision you don’t have to make. Travel insurance isn’t up for debate when visiting Jordan; it’s mandatory! You’ll need to show proof of medical and travel insurance before entering the country.

COVID-19 Travel Restrictions in Jordan

And now for the million-dollar question: what’s up with COVID-19 in Jordan?

Current government travel advice is similar to most places – wash your hands, wear a mask, and avoid travel when sick. In addition, all airborne visitors must receive a negative PCR test 72 hours before departing on their first flight for Jordan. Another PCR test is required upon arrival at the traveler’s expense for individuals who are not fully vaccinated.

Only 38% of Jordanians are fully immunized despite these health and safety measures. Still, many Western countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, account for over one and a half times Jordan’s total COVID-19 infection rate per capita.

All curfews have been lifted as of September 2021 though other restrictions remain in place.

Remember that all international travel through the pandemic holds some level of risk. So the best thing you can do is stay informed!

For the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions, pay attention to local media and visit the following government websites:

U.S. Embassy in Jordan – COVID-19 Information

Jordanian Ministry of Health – Coronavirus disease

Visit Jordan – Application Process

While Jordan is a safe destination, there’s still some good-to-know info that can keep you from harmful situations. So keep these tips in mind as you head out on your trip of a lifetime.

1 Keep an Eye on Dates

Like many countries, Jordan can face security threats. Although the Jordanian government keeps a watchful eye on potential – and rare- terrorist attacks, there’s no way to guarantee complete safety. But don’t get the wrong idea: the country’s overwhelming peacefulness helps maintain Jordan’s reputation as a secure destination.

And again, like virtually every other place, civil unrest happens. The best way to steer clear of danger?

Avoid protests;

be cautious if visiting the capital city Amman, staying in tourist hotels, or taking in any major sites;

and check the calendar before heading out.

Anytime plane tickets are expensive (AKA weekends and holidays) have the highest chance of violence. And still, it’s just a chance.

2 Be Mindful of Jordan's Border Areas

With the conflict in neighboring countries like Syria and Iraq, it’s best to stick around Jordan’s interior or Southern regions. Instead of scoping out border zones, visit the Wadi Rum desert and Petra via the Desert Highway or take a road trip to the Jordan Valley to float in the Dead Sea. Though you’ll be venturing through the West Bank, most rental cars give you the “okay” to trek here.

3 Take Caution While Driving

If you’re driving, practice caution. Road traffic accidents account for many of Jordan’s fatalities. Local authorities practice random security checks, and it’s always smartest to have all documents handy while complying with police instructions. It’s also good to remember that natural disasters can damage roads and broken down vehicles, animals, and unmarked construction are common hazards. Be cautious driving through unlit rural areas at night.

4 Travel With Care

Just because you’re in a safe country doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. Act how you would in any other location! As a woman, you’ve likely heard it all before, we know. Still, if you take a cab, catch a licensed one from major hotels to ensure a ride with reliable taxi drivers, and definitely don’t ride in the front seat beside a taxi driver. This goes out to solo travelers in particular.

In Jordan, it’s common for cabs to pick up other passengers, but feel free to object. Oh, and you confirm the taxi fares before you get on your way. If this sounds a bit too complex, city buses and organized group tours are available to most tourist hotspots.

SOURCES:
Gov.UK. “Safety and Security – Jordan Travel Advice.” GOV.UK, www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jordan/safety-and-security.
Ritchie, Hannah, et al. “Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccinations – Statistics and Research.” Our World in Data, OurWorldInData.org, 5 Mar. 2020, ourworldindata.org/covid-vaccinations?country=JOR.
Rough Guides. “Jordan Travel Essentials: Essential Information and Facts for Travelling to Jordan.” Jordan Travel Essentials | Essential Information and Facts for Travelling to Jordan, Rough Guides, 26 Apr. 2021, www.roughguides.com/jordan/travel-advice/.
Visit Jordan. “Covid-19 Update.” Visit Jordan, Jordan Tourism Board, international.visitjordan.com/page/31/Covid-19Update.
Visit Jordan. “Travel to Jordan Declaration Form – Arriving by Air.” Visit Jordan, Jordan Tourism Board, www.gateway2jordan.gov.jo/form/.
World Economic Forum. “Safety and Security.” Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2019, reports.weforum.org/travel-and-tourism-competitiveness-report-2019/rankings/#series=TTCI.A.02.