Amman is Jordan's dynamic capital city, a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern urban life set across a dramatic hillside landscape. The city is home to Roman ruins, vibrant souks, world-class restaurants, and a thriving arts scene, making it one of the Middle East's most compelling destinations.
Amman is generally considered one of the safer cities in the Middle East for tourists, with petty crime being the primary concern in crowded downtown areas. The main risk for visitors is street scams and occasional overcharging by taxis rather than violent crime.
Current safety advisory
Low
As of 2025, the US State Department rates Jordan at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) primarily due to terrorism risk and regional tensions. Amman itself is considered significantly safer than the overall country rating suggests, and millions of tourists visit annually without incident. However, monitor your government's travel advisories as conditions can change with regional geopolitical developments.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 — Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk — see below. Violent crime is rare but terrorist attacks have occurred, particularly targeting areas frequented by foreigners.
Moderate — Recommended Caution
There is a general threat from terrorism in Jordan. Be vigilant in public places, including tourist sites, hotels, and shopping areas. Follow the advice of local authorities.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Use Uber or Careem rather than unlicensed street taxis, particularly at night — app-based rides are trackable and priced transparently
Keep valuables (passport, phone, camera) secure in downtown markets and crowded areas where pickpocketing occurs
Dress modestly throughout Amman — conservative clothing (covered shoulders and knees) is expected in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods
Women should avoid taking unregistered yellow taxis alone at night — use Uber, Careem, or a hotel-arranged car service instead
Register your travel with your home country's embassy before visiting — the US Embassy recommends registration via the STEP program
Avoid the Baqa'a neighborhood of Ayn Basha, which has elevated security concerns per US State Department advisories
Stay informed about regional geopolitical events — check your government's travel advisory website before and during your visit
Photograph people only with their explicit permission — Jordanians are generally friendly but privacy is respected
Carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in your hotel safe — police checkpoints occasionally check ID
Do not discuss political topics (Israel-Palestine conflict, regional tensions) in public settings — remain diplomatically neutral
Respect Islamic customs — avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan daylight hours
Avoid walking alone in downtown Amman after midnight — the area is generally safe but quieter after dark; stick to areas with activity
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or deals, particularly near tourist sites — politely decline and walk away
Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls rather than isolated street ATMs to minimize card skimming risk
Emergency number in Jordan is 911 for police, ambulance, and fire — English-speaking operators are available
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed or opportunistic taxi drivers, particularly near tourist sites, quote inflated flat rates instead of using the meter
How to avoid: Always use Uber/Careem or insist on the meter with yellow taxis. If a driver refuses the meter, exit and find another.
Souvenir price inflation
Souvenir vendors in tourist areas quote prices 3–5 times the local rate for unsuspecting visitors
How to avoid: Compare prices across multiple stalls before buying; starting negotiation at 40–50% of the asking price is normal in traditional markets
Friendly guide scam
Strangers near the Citadel or Roman Theatre offer to guide you 'for free' then demand payment or take you to commission-paying shops
How to avoid: Politely decline unsolicited guide offers; hire official guides through licensed tour operators or your hotel
Fake police
Rare but reported — individuals posing as plainclothes police officers asking to check your belongings
How to avoid: Request to see identification; offer to go together to the nearest police station; contact your hotel for assistance
Money changing overcharging
Street money changers offer attractive rates but may miscalculate or short-change distracted tourists
How to avoid: Exchange money only at licensed exchange offices or banks; count all notes before leaving
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No mandatory vaccinations required for Jordan. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, flu). Hepatitis B and Rabies recommended for longer stays.
- Water
- Tap water is treated but heavily chlorinated — bottled water is strongly recommended for drinking. Water is safe for brushing teeth.
- Food
- Food safety standards in licensed restaurants are generally good. Eat at busy establishments with high turnover. Be cautious with uncooked vegetables and street food from unfamiliar vendors.
- Facilities
- Amman has excellent medical facilities by regional standards. The Jordan University Hospital, King Hussein Medical Center, and several private hospitals (Al-Istishari, Al-Khalidi) provide good care. Many doctors speak English.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Amman is generally safe for solo travelers. Keep alert in crowded downtown areas, use app-based taxis, trust your instincts when approached by strangers, and let someone know your itinerary. Solo travel in tourist areas, upscale neighborhoods, and during daylight hours carries minimal risk.
Female travellers
Female travelers are generally safe in Amman, particularly in West Amman (Abdali, Shmeisani, Rainbow Street area). Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) to minimize unwanted attention. Avoid unregistered taxis alone at night — use Uber/Careem. Jabal Al Luweibdeh and Rainbow Street areas are comfortable for solo female travelers. Downtown can involve more unsolicited attention — go with company if possible.
Families
Amman is an excellent family destination — Jordanians are deeply welcoming to families with children. The main areas of West Amman are very family-friendly. The Children's Museum, King Hussein Park, and most major attractions are suitable for all ages. Keep children close in crowded downtown markets.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is technically not criminalized in Jordan (unlike some neighboring countries), but public displays of affection between same-sex couples are strongly frowned upon and may attract negative attention. Amman's Rainbow Street and Jabal Al Luweibdeh areas have a more accepting atmosphere than other parts of the city. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion and avoid public displays of affection.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911
- Medical
- 911 (ambulance) / Jordan University Hospital: +962-6-535-3444
- Embassy
- US Embassy Amman: +962-6-590-6000 / UK Embassy: +962-6-590-9200
- Tourist Police
- +962-6-560-7311 (Tourist Police, Downtown Amman)