Is Jordan Safe to Travel: Tourist Guide
Safety and Travel Advisories
When planning a trip to Jordan, it’s important to stay informed about safety and travel advisories. These advisories can provide valuable information to ensure your travels are secure and well-prepared.
U.S. Department of State Travel Ratings
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories that include four levels of risk to inform travelers about potential dangers in their destination country (USA Travel Advisory). The levels are:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
As of the latest update, the travel advisory for Jordan was reissued on September 12, 2024. The advisory states that travelers should exercise increased caution due to the threat of terrorism. There is potential for attacks in areas frequented by tourists such as transport hubs, markets, and government facilities.
| Risk Level | Description | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Exercise Normal Precautions | Routine precautions |
| Level 2 | Exercise Increased Caution | Stay aware of surroundings |
| Level 3 | Reconsider Travel | Avoid travel unless necessary |
| Level 4 | Do Not Travel | Avoid all travel, high risk |
Travel Warnings & Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
The U.S. Department of State also provides travel warnings and allows enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is designed to assist U.S. citizens in critical situations and ensures that they receive important safety announcements. Keeping information up to date in STEP is crucial, especially in areas that have travel warnings (Commerce.gov).
| Program | Benefits |
|---|---|
| STEP | Receive safety and security announcements |
| Embassy contact in emergencies |
For Jordan, specific areas such as the borders with Syria and Iraq are classified as Level 4: Do Not Travel due to cross-border violence and the risk of terrorist attacks. Additionally, zones including Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha are also under this highest risk level due to terrorism and crime.
For more information on related travel safety, visit our guides on is it safe to travel to egypt and is it safe to travel to turkey. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Jordan.
Population and Demographics
Understanding the population and demographics of Jordan can provide valuable insights for your travel plans. This section delves into population estimates, growth trends, median age, fertility rates, and population density in Jordan.
Population Estimates and Growth Trends
Jordan’s population is continuously monitored and updated using data collected from the United Nations Population Division. As of recent estimates provided by Worldometer, the population stands at approximately 10.2 million. The population has shown significant growth over the years, with historical data being tracked from 1950 to 2023.
| Year | Population (Millions) |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 0.5 |
| 1970 | 1.6 |
| 1990 | 3.9 |
| 2010 | 6.2 |
| 2023 | 10.2 |
Median Age and Fertility Rate
The median age is a crucial indicator of the age distribution within Jordan. As of the latest data from Worldometer, the median age in Jordan is approximately 23.8 years. This relatively young population signifies a dynamic demographic structure.
The fertility rate, measured as the Total Fertility Rate (TFR), reflects the average number of children a woman in Jordan is expected to have during her lifetime, assuming she experiences the current age-specific fertility rates throughout her reproductive years. Currently, the TFR in Jordan is around 2.8 children per woman (Worldometer).
| Demographic Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Age | 23.8 years |
| Fertility Rate | 2.8 children/woman |
Population Density in Jordan
Population density is an important aspect to consider when understanding the living conditions and urban planning of a country. In Jordan, the density varies significantly across different regions. The population density, expressed as the number of people per square kilometer, helps gauge how crowded or sparse certain areas might be.
As per Worldometer, the population density in Jordan is approximately 115 people per square kilometer. However, urban areas like Amman have much higher densities, reflecting the concentration of population in major cities.
| Region | Population Density (People/km²) |
|---|---|
| Jordan (Overall) | 115 |
| Amman | >1000 |
For more information on the safety and security aspects of traveling to Jordan, refer to the Travel and Safety Advisories section. Additionally, you can explore other destinations and related travel safety topics like is it safe to travel to egypt or is it safe to travel to turkey.
Transportation Options in Jordan
Whether you are exploring the vibrant cities or the serene landscapes, Jordan offers various transportation options to make your travel experience convenient and enjoyable.
Means of Transportation Available
In Jordan, you have multiple options to choose from, including buses, Servis (white taxis), yellow taxis, and airport taxis. Additionally, smart applications like Uber and Careem provide further convenience for tourists (Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship).
Bus System and Timetables
Jordan’s bus system is budget-friendly but can be unpredictable. Buses often depart only when they are full, and timetables are rarely adhered to, resulting in potential waits for departure. Longer trips or routes to isolated destinations may have limited daily departures.
| Route | Price (JD) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 30-minute trip | 1 | 1.40 |
| Amman to Jerash | 1.50 – 2 | 2 |
| Karak to Tafileh | 1.50 – 2 | 2 |
| Petra to Aqaba | 5 – 7 | 7 – 10 |
Rental Cars and Recommendations
Rental cars are recommended for visiting highly accessible yet public-transport-challenged areas in Jordan. It’s best to arrange rentals before arriving to ensure quality service and coverage. Prices for rental cars range from JD15-20 (£16-21/$21-28) per day for older vehicles, while newer cars with unlimited mileage and full insurance cost JD25-30 (£27-32/$35-42) per day.
Domestic Flights and Advantages
Domestic flights within Jordan are operated by Royal Jordanian, with two to three daily flights between Amman and Aqaba. The flight time is slightly over thirty minutes and costs around JD50 (£55/$70.50) one-way, providing a quicker alternative to overland travel, which takes about four hours by road (Rough Guides).
| Route | Price (JD) | Price (USD) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amman to Aqaba (flight) | 50 | 70.50 | 30 min |
| Amman to Aqaba (road) | – | – | 4 hours |
Bike Rentals and Exploring Opportunities
Exploring Jordan by bike can be a unique and adventurous way to see the country. While not as popular as other transportation methods, bike rentals are increasingly available in tourist areas. This eco-friendly option allows for a closer connection to the local environment and culture.
For more detailed advice on is jordan safe to travel, including tips on safety and travel advisories, visit our related articles on is it safe to travel to egypt and is it safe to travel to turkey.
Security and Risks in Jordan
Cautionary Measures for Tourists
Jordan is generally safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, you should exercise caution. It’s advisable to stay informed about local news and follow any advisories issued by your home country’s government. Use Smart Traveller for updates on safety protocols.
Some basic precautions to follow include:
- Avoid displaying expensive items.
- Keep personal belongings secure.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
For additional safety tips, consider reading is it safe to travel to colombia.
Demonstrations and Protests
Demonstrations and protests are common in Jordan, especially in the capital city of Amman. These protests can escalate quickly and lead to road closures, particularly after Friday noon prayers. If you encounter a demonstration, it’s best to leave the area immediately to avoid being caught in any potential unrest.
| Common Protest Days | Impact Areas |
|---|---|
| Fridays | Amman, Road Closures |
Keep updated with local news to stay informed about any planned demonstrations. More information is available on topics like is china safe to travel.
Security Concerns at Borders
The security situation near Jordan’s borders with Syria and Iraq is unstable. These areas experience shelling, gunfire, and drone attacks. Extra security forces are often deployed to these borders to maintain control and ensure safety.
If you plan to travel to border areas, exercise extreme caution, and avoid unnecessary travel in these regions. Information on other destinations, such as is turkey safe to travel can also be helpful.
Threat of Terrorist Attacks
While Jordan is relatively stable, the threat of terrorist attacks remains. Potential targets include tourist areas and places frequented by foreigners. Authorities have successfully prevented several terrorist plots in recent years.
| Potential Targets | Threat Level |
|---|---|
| Tourist Areas | High |
| Foreign Gatherings | Medium |
Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. Review advisories like is it safe to travel to paris right now for similar contexts.
Kidnapping Risks and Precautions
Kidnapping, though not commonplace, can occur in Jordan. It’s important to be aware that the Australian Government does not make payments to kidnappers (Smart Traveller).
To minimize risk:
- Avoid remote areas.
- Be cautious when interacting with strangers.
- Use reputable transport services.
| Risk Areas | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Remote Locations | Avoidance |
| Urban Centers | Caution |
For more on safe travel practices, you might find is mexico safe to travel informative.
Economic and Social Landscape
Understanding the economic and social landscape of Jordan is crucial for assessing is Jordan safe to travel. This section delves into the country’s growth rates, job opportunities, resource challenges, startup funding, digitization projects, and municipal services.
Growth Rate and Job Opportunities
Jordan has experienced a steady average growth rate of 2.5% over the past decade (World Bank). Despite this, unemployment remains a significant issue, especially among the youth and women. In Q2-2023, the overall unemployment rate stood at 22.3%, with youth unemployment at 46.1% and women at 30.9%. Efforts are ongoing to generate more job opportunities and include more women in the labor market.
| Demographic | Unemployment Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Overall | 22.3 |
| Youth | 46.1 |
| Women | 30.9 |
Population Increase and Resource Challenges
Jordan’s population has doubled from 5 million to 11 million people over the past two decades. This rapid growth has put considerable pressure on the country’s limited natural resources. Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world and is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The country is addressing needs for water, energy, and food security to build resilience.
Startup Funding and Job Creation
The innovative startups fund project, established in 2017 with a working capital of US$98 million, has financed 105 companies, creating over 1,350 jobs. This project has also mobilized equity capital for startups, attracting over US$58 million in private capital and benefiting more than 670 startups through various services.
Digitization Projects and Benefits
The Jordan Youth, Technology and Jobs Project works to improve digitally-enabled income opportunities and expand digitized government services. As of September 2023, this project has created 3,460 jobs or income opportunities (World Bank). It aims to enhance digital skills for public school students and youth, expand access to the market for digital firms, and support the digitization of government payments.
| Project Component | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Jobs/Income Opportunities Created | 3,460 |
| Digital Skills Training | Public school students, youth |
| Market Access | Digital firms |
| Government Payments Digitization | Ongoing |
Municipal Services and Social Resilience
The Municipal Services and Social Resilience Project in Jordan has significantly improved municipal services, benefiting over 2.8 million people, including Syrian refugees and women. The project has created over 45,000 working days of temporary employment, with an expected increase to over 110,000 by project closing. It has also supported 28 municipalities with a cumulative fund exceeding US$102 million.
| Project Aspect | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Beneficiaries | 2.8 million+ |
| Temporary Employment Days | 45,000+ |
| Supported Municipalities | 28 |
| Funding | US$102 million+ |
Jordan’s economic and social landscape is shaped by a mix of challenges and opportunities. For more detailed travel advisories and safety information, you might also be interested in our articles on is it safe to travel to egypt and is it safe to travel to turkey.
Specific Travel Advisories
Advisory Details and Updates
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories with four levels of increasing risk. These advisories aim to inform you about potential dangers in your destination country and help you plan accordingly. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time safety and security updates and facilitate embassy contact in emergencies.
Restricted Border Areas
Exercise a high degree of caution in Jordan due to the threat of terrorism. Restrict travel to Jordan’s borders with Syria and Iraq, as these areas are marked Level 4: Do Not Travel. The continued risk of cross-border violence, including terrorist attacks, makes these regions particularly hazardous (Travel.State.Gov). Travel restrictions for U.S. government personnel require travel only during daylight hours.
Designated Do Not Travel Zones
Certain areas within Jordan are designated as “Do Not Travel” zones due to heightened risks, including crime and terrorism:
-
Zarqa, Rusayfah, and Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha: These regions are marked Level 4: Do Not Travel. U.S. government personnel must adhere to daytime travel restrictions and are prohibited from personal travel in these areas (Travel.State.Gov).
-
Syrian refugee camps: Travel to these camps is restricted by the Government of Jordan, and U.S. personnel must follow strict guidelines. Personal travel to these camps is not permitted (Travel.State.Gov).
Level 3: Reconsider Travel Areas
Certain areas in Jordan are designated Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to security concerns:
- Ma’an City and specific areas of Ma’an Governorate: Due to terrorism and crime, these regions are advised against for travel. U.S. government personnel have travel restrictions, including using major highways and limiting travel to daylight hours. Exceptions may apply for transit during darkness.
| Area | Advisory Level | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Zarqa, Rusayfah, Baqa’a | Level 4: Do Not Travel | Terrorism, Crime |
| Syrian Refugee Camps | Level 4: Do Not Travel | Government Restrictions |
| Ma’an City and Governorate Areas | Level 3: Reconsider Travel | Terrorism, Crime |
For more insights about travel safety in other destinations, check out our guides on is it safe to travel to mexico, is cancun safe to travel, is it safe to travel to egypt, and more. Stay informed and travel safe.
