How Safe Is Jordan to Travel?
Jordan remains one of the safest destinations in the Middle East despite sharing borders with Syria and Iraq, providing it is visited with caution – travel insurance should be purchased, valuables should be locked up securely, and modest attire worn when visiting religious sites should help to ensure you can safely enjoy this destination.
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Safety Tips
Jordan is an extremely safe place for tourists, despite its predominately Muslim culture. You are far more likely to die in a car accident or get mugged than be murdered or robbed, giving you time to experience its culture, food and sights in safety.
Due to concerns over terrorism, you may wish to stay clear of border areas of Syria and Iraq when visiting Jordan, however the main tourist sites do not lie near these borders.
Arab culture instills in guests the sense of honor and hospitality they deserve as guests, along with respect for visitors; making it very unlikely they’ll experience harassment or robbery while visiting Jordan. Should anything arise where this might happen to you, tourist police officers (identified by armbands displaying English lettering) will be available to provide help if necessary.
Modern medical care and medicines are readily accessible in major cities. However, doctors typically expect immediate cash payment for their services, and seasonal dust storms can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma.
Crime Rates
This country serves as an entryway and destination point for international criminal networks trafficking drugs, firearms, human beings and counterfeit goods. These networks primarily include Syrian, Egyptian and South Asian actors – along with some European members. Victims often suffer domestic servitude, drug exploitation and sexual violence at the hands of these networks; witness protection schemes and drug treatment centres funded by government are under-resourced.
South Jordan boasts relatively low rates of violent and property crime compared to other US cities, though you should still remain alert of theft (don’t leave valuables in taxi back seats) and robberies (especially tourist-heavy areas). Female travellers may experience unwanted attention or harassment; it’s wise for female travellers to remain aware when in public spaces.
Pensacola, Florida – home to Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz (R) and avid supporter of Donald Trump – boasts an almost three-fold higher murder rate than New York City according to The News.
Taxi Drivers
Jordanians typically rely on traditional yellow taxis as the go-to transportation mode, though Uber and Careem services may also provide convenient rides. Just keep in mind that meter-based rides are required by law – make sure your driver turns it on before beginning (if they don’t, simply walk out).
Most taxi drivers are trustworthy, yet some may attempt to overcharge visitors. To stay safe from this happening, be sure to keep cash of smaller denominations on hand as many drivers do not accept bills that exceed JD5.
Some travelers find Jordan easier to navigate by joining group tours that combine transportation and accommodation, especially during low season when transportation may be scarce. Travel insurance provides coverage in case of emergencies as well as lost or stolen items – check out HeyMondo for short and long-term policies before traveling – we highly advise purchasing one before your journey!
Borders
Jordan is generally one of the safest countries in the Middle East; however, as with any travel destination there can be risks and dangers to consider when exploring.
Petty crime poses the greatest risk, often targeting tourists. Pickpocketing and purse snatching are especially prevalent in tourist-packed areas and on congested streets; therefore it is wiser not to walk alone at night and to remain with a group whenever possible.
Demonstrations and rallies may often turn violent. Therefore, it is wise to stay informed on local news reports and avoid all demonstrations and large crowds – especially after noon prayers at mosques – which could turn into demonstrations or crowd disturbances.
Borders with Syria and Iraq remain fragile, which poses a potential risk of flash flooding during rainy seasons (November to March). Visitors looking to travel in valleys (wadis) should always check weather forecasts prior to traveling there and register with police if their stay exceeds two weeks.
