There’s a danger of unexploded weapons, including landmines, along Jordan’s borders. Known minefields are usually fenced and marked. These warnings may not be obvious.
Reconsider travel to areas near the borders with Syria and Iraq due to the unstable security situation.
Seek local advice if travelling near Jordan’s borders. See more information in ‘Land borders’ above.
Driving permit
To drive in Jordan you need both:
- a valid Australian driver’s licence
- an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Get your IDP before you leave Australia.
More information:
Road travel
Road accidents are common.
Roads are dangerous at night. In rural areas, stray livestock and unlit vehicles are common.
Incidents of road rage are also common. They can escalate quickly.
Road travel in remote desert areas is very risky. Isolation, distance from towns and lack of phone service can make it difficult to obtain assistance. Even routine vehicle breakdowns can be dangerous.
By law:
- vehicles must carry an extinguisher and a warning triangle
- drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident, no matter how minor, must remain at the scene until traffic police have attended
Call police on 911. You can ask for an English-speaking operator.
If you intend to drive in Jordan:
- learn the local road rules
- make sure your vehicle has all required safety equipment
- avoid driving outside cities after dark
- keep your doors locked when driving
- carry identification documents to show at checkpoints
- stay calm, particularly if faced with ‘road rage’
- stay at the scene of an accident unless people threaten your safety
If you travel in remote desert areas, take enough food and water in case your vehicle breaks down. Crime has been known to occur in isolated areas; be careful when speaking to others.
More information:
Motorcycles
Avoid using motorbikes. It’s dangerous due to poor driving and road standards.
Check with your travel insurer if you’re covered to ride a motorcycle.
Always wear a helmet.
Taxis
Use only licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing or limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.
Avoid taxis that tout for business outside airports, hotels and tourist attractions. They often try to charge high prices. Always insist drivers use the meter.
Authorities report taxi drivers have seriously assaulted lone female passengers. If you’re a woman, always sit in the back.
Public transport
Buses can be crowded. It’s worse on holidays and during peak times. Safety standards are not the same as in Australia.
More information:
Sea travel
International cruise ships visit the port of Aqaba on the Red Sea.
More information:
Air travel
Flights to and from Jordan may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict could increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace. For more information, see air travel and check with airlines before booking. Flight paths are subject to change. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options.
DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
More information: